20-F 1 teo-20231231x20f.htm FORM 20-F
000000000000000000932470--12-312023FYfalseTELECOM ARGENTINA SAP5Y600000000000932470teo:LoanFromRomboCompaaFinancieraMemberteo:UtilityVehiclesAcquisitionFinancedAmountRateFor80.3MillionMember2023-06-290000932470teo:LoanFromRomboCompaaFinancieraMemberteo:UtilityVehiclesAcquisitionFinancedAmountRateFor180.3MillionMember2023-06-290000932470teo:LoanFromBancoIndustrialAndCommercialBankOfChinaArgentinaS.a.u.IcbcMemberteo:InflationRestatementMember2022-08-300000932470teo:LoanFromBbvaAndPsaFinanceArgentinaMemberteo:InflationRestatementMember2022-06-100000932470teo:LoanFromRomboCompaaFinancieraMemberteo:InflationRestatementMember2023-06-290000932470teo:TowerAndPoleMemberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:TowerAndPoleMemberifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:SwitchingEquipmentMemberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:SwitchingEquipmentMemberifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:PowerEquipmentAndInstallationsMemberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:PowerEquipmentAndInstallationsMemberifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:MobileNetworkAccessMemberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:MobileNetworkAccessMemberifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:MachineryDiverseEquipmentAndToolsMemberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:MachineryDiverseEquipmentAndToolsMemberifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:IfrsRealEstateMemberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:IfrsRealEstateMemberifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:GoodsLentToCustomersAtNoCostMemberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:GoodsLentToCustomersAtNoCostMemberifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:FixedNetworkAndTransportationMemberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:FixedNetworkAndTransportationMemberifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:ComputerEquipmentAndSoftwareMemberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:ComputerEquipmentAndSoftwareMemberifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:VehiclesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:OtherExclusivityRightsRightsOfUseMemberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:OtherExclusivityRightsRightsOfUseMemberifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:NucleoSLicensesMemberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:NucleoSLicensesMemberifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:InternallyGeneratedSoftwareMemberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:InternallyGeneratedSoftwareMemberifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:CustomerrelatedIntangibleAssetsMemberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:CustomerrelatedIntangibleAssetsMemberifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:Licenses5gMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:Licenses3g4gMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:IncrementalCostsFromAcquisitionOfContractsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:ContentActivationMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:TeledifusoraSanMiguelArcngelS.a.Member2023-12-310000932470teo:TeledifusoraSanMiguelArcngelS.a.Member2022-12-310000932470country:AR2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:MobileHandsetsAndOthersMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:MobileHandsetsAndOthersMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:LaborProceedingsContingentLiabilityMemberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMember2021-12-302021-12-300000932470country:US2022-01-012022-12-310000932470country:US2021-01-012021-12-310000932470teo:FiveGLicensesMemberteo:ScResolutionNumber2852023Member2023-12-310000932470teo:FiveGLicensesMemberteo:ScResolutionNumber2852023Member2023-11-300000932470teo:OtherCurrentReceivablesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:OtherCurrentReceivablesMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:NucleoMemberteo:MobileTelecommunicationServicesLicenseInstallationAndProvisionOfInternetAndDataLicenseAgreementMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:OpenPassS.a.u.Member2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:CablevisionHoldingMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Member2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:CablevisionHoldingMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Member2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:CostaneraBuildingMembersrt:ScenarioForecastMember2025-01-310000932470teo:CostaneraBuildingMember2023-10-300000932470teo:CostaneraBuildingMembersrt:ScenarioForecastMember2024-01-310000932470teo:CostaneraBuildingMember2024-01-310000932470teo:LoanFromExportDevelopmentCanadaEdcMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:AfaPlusProjectMember2018-12-190000932470teo:AsociacionPorLaDefensaDeUsuariosYConsumidoresMember2018-11-012018-11-300000932470ifrs-full:CurrencyRiskMember2021-12-310000932470teo:CashGeneratingUnitOfArgentinaMember2022-12-310000932470teo:VlgAndFintechTelecomLlcMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Member2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherPriceRiskMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:InterestRateRiskMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:MandaS.aMemberteo:MinorityShareholdersMemberteo:TelevisinDirigidaMember2023-12-310000932470teo:MandaS.aMemberteo:MinorityShareholdersMemberteo:TelevisinDirigidaMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:SaturnHoldingLlcMemberteo:MandaS.aMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:NapervilleInvestmentsLlcMemberteo:MandaS.aMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:NapervilleInvestmentsLlcAndSatumHoldingLlcMemberteo:TelevisinDirigidaMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:CashGeneratingUnitOfArgentinaMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:CommodityPriceRiskMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:CommodityPriceRiskMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:CommodityPriceRiskMember2021-12-310000932470teo:VerT.v.S.a.Member2023-12-310000932470teo:LaCapitalCableS.aMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:RelatedPartiesMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherRelatedPartiesMember2023-12-310000932470teo:VerT.v.S.a.Member2022-12-310000932470teo:LaCapitalCableS.aMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:RelatedPartiesMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherRelatedPartiesMember2022-12-310000932470teo:OphMember2023-12-310000932470teo:LaCapitalCableS.aMemberteo:FeesForServicesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherRelatedPartiesMemberteo:ProgrammingCostsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherRelatedPartiesMemberteo:OtherPurchasesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherRelatedPartiesMemberteo:EditingAndDistributionOfMagazinesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherRelatedPartiesMemberteo:AdvisoryServicesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherRelatedPartiesMemberteo:AdvertisingPurchasesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:LaCapitalCableS.aMemberteo:FeesForServicesMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherRelatedPartiesMemberteo:ProgrammingCostsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherRelatedPartiesMemberteo:OtherPurchasesMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherRelatedPartiesMemberteo:EditingAndDistributionOfMagazinesMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherRelatedPartiesMemberteo:AdvisoryServicesMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherRelatedPartiesMemberteo:AdvertisingPurchasesMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:LaCapitalCableS.aMemberteo:FeesForServicesMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherRelatedPartiesMemberteo:ProgrammingCostsMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherRelatedPartiesMemberteo:OtherPurchasesMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherRelatedPartiesMemberteo:EditingAndDistributionOfMagazinesMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherRelatedPartiesMemberteo:AdvisoryServicesMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherRelatedPartiesMemberteo:AdvertisingPurchasesMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:LegalProceedingsContingentLiabilityMemberteo:PersonalMemberteo:ConsumidoresFinancierosAsociacionCivilParaSuDefensaMember2011-11-012011-11-300000932470teo:TradeUnionsForUnionContributionsAndPaymentsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:CostaneraBuildingMember2023-11-300000932470teo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Memberteo:InflationRestatementMember2023-11-300000932470teo:NonDeliverableForwardContractsMemberteo:ExchangeRateHedgesMemberifrs-full:CashFlowHedgesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:NonDeliverableForwardContractsMemberteo:ExchangeRateHedgesMemberifrs-full:CashFlowHedgesMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:NonDeliverableForwardContractsMemberteo:ExchangeRateHedgesMemberifrs-full:CashFlowHedgesMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470teo:InflationRestatementMember2023-12-310000932470teo:FacultativeReserveToMaintainCapitalInvestmentsLevelAndCurrentLevelOfSolvencyMember2023-12-310000932470teo:InflationRestatementMember2022-12-310000932470teo:InflationRestatementMember2021-12-310000932470teo:TwoThousandThirtyGlobalBondsMember2023-12-310000932470teo:TwoThousandThirtyGlobalBondsMember2022-12-310000932470teo:TwoThousandThirtyFiveGlobalBondsMember2022-12-310000932470teo:TwoThousandThirtyGlobalBondsMember2021-12-310000932470teo:TwoThousandThirtyFiveGlobalBondsMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:NotLaterThanOneYearMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:LaterThanOneYearAndNotLaterThanFiveYearsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:LaterThanFiveYearsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:NotLaterThanOneYearMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:LaterThanOneYearAndNotLaterThanFiveYearsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:LaterThanFiveYearsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:NotLaterThanOneYearMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:LaterThanOneYearAndNotLaterThanFiveYearsMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:LaterThanFiveYearsMember2021-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Memberteo:InflationRestatementMember2023-03-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Member2023-03-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Memberteo:InflationRestatementMember2022-10-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Member2022-10-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Memberteo:InflationRestatementMember2022-07-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Member2022-07-310000932470teo:LoanFromExportDevelopmentCanadaEdcMember2023-05-050000932470teo:LoanFromInternationalFinanceCorporationIfcMember2022-06-300000932470teo:LoanFromExportDevelopmentCanadaEdcMember2022-01-030000932470teo:NotesMemberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Member2017-12-280000932470teo:AmericanDepositarySharesMember2023-12-310000932470teo:AmericanDepositarySharesMember2022-09-300000932470ifrs-full:StatutoryReserveMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AdditionalPaidinCapitalMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:IndefeasibleRightsOfUseMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470currency:USD2023-12-310000932470currency:PYG2023-12-310000932470currency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Member2023-03-012023-03-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Member2022-07-012022-07-310000932470teo:LoanFromFinnveraMemberteo:InflationRestatementMember2022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromFinnveraMember2022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromInternationalFinanceCorporationIfcMember2022-07-150000932470ifrs-full:DerivativesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:DerivativesMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:DerivativesMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470teo:FiveGLicensesMemberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMemberteo:ScResolutionNumber2852023Member2023-10-242023-10-240000932470teo:FiveGLicensesMemberifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMemberteo:ScResolutionNumber2852023Member2023-10-242023-10-240000932470teo:TradePayablesMemberteo:PastDueMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:TradePayablesMemberifrs-full:NotLaterThanOneYearMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:TradePayablesMemberifrs-full:LaterThanTwoYearsAndNotLaterThanThreeYearsMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:TradePayablesMemberifrs-full:LaterThanThreeYearsMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:TradePayablesMemberifrs-full:LaterThanOneYearAndNotLaterThanTwoYearsMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:LeasesLiabilitiesMemberifrs-full:NotLaterThanOneYearMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:LeasesLiabilitiesMemberifrs-full:LaterThanTwoYearsAndNotLaterThanThreeYearsMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:LeasesLiabilitiesMemberifrs-full:LaterThanThreeYearsMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:LeasesLiabilitiesMemberifrs-full:LaterThanOneYearAndNotLaterThanTwoYearsMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:IfrsOtherLiabilitiesMemberifrs-full:NotLaterThanOneYearMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:IfrsOtherLiabilitiesMemberifrs-full:LaterThanTwoYearsAndNotLaterThanThreeYearsMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:IfrsOtherLiabilitiesMemberifrs-full:LaterThanThreeYearsMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:IfrsOtherLiabilitiesMemberifrs-full:LaterThanOneYearAndNotLaterThanTwoYearsMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:IfrsLoansPayableMemberifrs-full:NotLaterThanOneYearMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:IfrsLoansPayableMemberifrs-full:LaterThanTwoYearsAndNotLaterThanThreeYearsMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:IfrsLoansPayableMemberifrs-full:LaterThanThreeYearsMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:IfrsLoansPayableMemberifrs-full:LaterThanOneYearAndNotLaterThanTwoYearsMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:TradePayablesMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:PastDueMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:LeasesLiabilitiesMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:IfrsOtherLiabilitiesMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:IfrsLoansPayableMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:NotLaterThanOneYearMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:LaterThanTwoYearsAndNotLaterThanThreeYearsMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:LaterThanThreeYearsMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:LaterThanOneYearAndNotLaterThanTwoYearsMemberifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:LiquidityRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:BorrowingsWithInternationalFinanceCorporationInterAmericanInvestmentCorporationFinnveraExportDevelopmentCanadaAndChinaDevelopmentBankShenzhenBranchMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470country:US2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:CurrencyRiskMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedImpairmentMemberteo:PropertyPlantAndEquipmentWithoutMaterialsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedImpairmentMemberteo:PropertyPlantAndEquipmentWithoutMaterialsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:NucleoMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470srt:ParentCompanyMember2023-01-012023-12-3100009324702012-09-300000932470srt:ParentCompanyMemberifrs-full:UnusedTaxCreditsMember2023-12-310000932470teo:TemporaryDifferencesCashDividendsFromForeignCompaniesMember2023-12-310000932470teo:PropertyPlantAndEquipmentIntangibleAssetsAndRightOfUseAssetsMember2023-12-310000932470teo:LegalClaimsAndContingentLiabilitiesMember2023-12-310000932470teo:IncomeTaxInflationAdjustmentEffectMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:UnusedTaxCreditsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherTemporaryDifferencesMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AllowanceForCreditLossesMember2023-12-310000932470teo:TemporaryDifferencesCashDividendsFromForeignCompaniesMember2022-12-310000932470teo:PropertyPlantAndEquipmentIntangibleAssetsAndRightOfUseAssetsMember2022-12-310000932470teo:LegalClaimsAndContingentLiabilitiesMember2022-12-310000932470teo:IncomeTaxInflationAdjustmentEffectMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:UnusedTaxCreditsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherTemporaryDifferencesMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AllowanceForCreditLossesMember2022-12-310000932470teo:FintechAndCvhMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Member2019-04-152019-04-150000932470teo:CostaneraBuildingMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:MarketRiskMember2023-12-012023-12-3100009324702023-08-012023-08-310000932470ifrs-full:MarketRiskMember2023-01-012023-12-3100009324702023-12-012023-12-310000932470teo:ClassCOrdinarySharesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:LaborProceedingsContingentLiabilityMember2013-06-012013-06-300000932470teo:NewYorkStockExchangeMemberteo:AmericanDepositarySharesMembercurrency:USD2022-09-012022-09-300000932470teo:BymaMembercurrency:ARS2022-09-012022-09-3000009324702022-09-012022-09-300000932470teo:ServicesRenderedInArgentinaSegmentMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:ServicesRenderedInArgentinaSegmentMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:ServicesRenderedInArgentinaSegmentMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromInternationalFinanceCorporationIfcMemberteo:DueOnMarch2027Membercurrency:USDteo:SecuredOvernightFinancingSofMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromInternationalFinanceCorporationIfcMemberteo:DueOnAugust2029Membercurrency:USDteo:SecuredOvernightFinancingSofMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromInternationalFinanceCorporationIfcMemberteo:DueBetweenAugust2024ToAugust2025Membercurrency:USDteo:SecuredOvernightFinancingSofMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromInterAmericanInvestmentCorporationIicMemberteo:DueOnDecember2024Membercurrency:USDteo:SecuredOvernightFinancingSofMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromInterAmericanDevelopmentBankIdbMemberteo:DueOnJune2027Membercurrency:USDteo:SecuredOvernightFinancingSofMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromFinnveraMemberteo:DueBetweenNovember2025ToNovember2026Membercurrency:USDteo:SecuredOvernightFinancingSofMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromExportDevelopmentCanadaEdcMemberteo:DueBetweenDecember2026ToMay2028Membercurrency:USDteo:SecuredOvernightFinancingSofMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromChinaDevelopmentBankShenzhenBranchCdbMemberteo:InflationRestatementMember2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromChinaDevelopmentBankShenzhenBranchCdbMember2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromInterAmericanDevelopmentBankIdbMemberteo:InflationRestatementMember2023-10-170000932470teo:LoanFromInterAmericanDevelopmentBankIdbMember2023-10-170000932470teo:LoanFromChinaDevelopmentBankShenzhenBranchCdbMemberteo:InflationRestatementMember2022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromChinaDevelopmentBankShenzhenBranchCdbMember2022-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesNineteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Memberteo:DueOnOctober2023Membercurrency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Memberteo:DueOnJune2023Membercurrency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Memberteo:DueOnJuly2023TwoMembercurrency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Memberteo:DueOnJuly2023Membercurrency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoBbvaArgentinaS.a.BbvaMemberteo:DueOnMay2023Membercurrency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoBbvaArgentinaS.a.BbvaMemberteo:DueOnMarch2023Membercurrency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesNineteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2023-11-300000932470teo:NucleoMember2023-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesFiveMemberteo:InstallmentPayableOnFeb2023Memberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2020-08-012020-08-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesFiveMemberteo:InstallmentPayableOnAug2025Memberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2020-08-012020-08-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesFiveMemberteo:InstallmentPayableOnAug2024Memberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2020-08-012020-08-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesFiveMemberteo:InstallmentPayableOnAug2023Memberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2020-08-012020-08-310000932470teo:RemeasurementInterestsAndRelatedExpensesCurrentMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:PurchaseOfEquipmentCurrentMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:PrincipalDueOnNotesCurrentMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:IfrsBankOverdraftsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:DerivativeFinancialInstrumentsContractsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:BankAndOtherFinancialEntitiesLoansCurrentMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:TopOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMember2023-01-012023-12-3100009324702022-09-3000009324702018-02-272018-02-270000932470teo:OtherCurrentReceivablesMember2021-12-310000932470teo:TelevisinDirigidaMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:NoncurrentAssetsHeldForSaleMemberteo:CostaneraBuildingMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:NoncurrentAssetsHeldForSaleMemberteo:CostaneraBuildingMember2022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromRomboCompaaFinancieraMember2023-06-290000932470teo:LoanFromBancoIndustrialAndCommercialBankOfChinaArgentinaS.a.u.IcbcMember2022-08-300000932470teo:LoanFromBbvaAndPsaFinanceArgentinaMember2022-06-100000932470ifrs-full:ProvisionForDecommissioningRestorationAndRehabilitationCostsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:LegalProceedingsProvisionMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:ProvisionForDecommissioningRestorationAndRehabilitationCostsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:LegalProceedingsProvisionMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470country:PY2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:OtherCurrentReceivablesMember2023-12-310000932470teo:OtherCurrentReceivablesMember2022-12-310000932470currency:ARS2022-09-300000932470teo:NyssaMember2022-06-012022-06-010000932470teo:UbiquoMemberteo:IfrsTaxYear2023FourMember2023-12-310000932470teo:UbiquoMemberteo:IfrsTaxYear2022ThreeMember2023-12-310000932470teo:TelecomMemberteo:IfrsTaxYear2023OneMember2023-12-310000932470teo:TelecomMemberteo:IfrsTaxYear2022OneMember2023-12-310000932470teo:MicroSistemasMemberteo:IfrsTaxYear2023TwoMember2023-12-310000932470teo:MicroSistemasMemberteo:IfrsTaxYear2022TwoMember2023-12-310000932470teo:MicroSistemasMemberteo:IfrsTaxYear2021OneMember2023-12-310000932470teo:InterRadiosMemberteo:IfrsTaxYear2023ThreeMember2023-12-310000932470teo:CableImagenMemberteo:IfrsTaxYear2023SixMember2023-12-310000932470teo:CableImagenMemberteo:IfrsTaxYear2022FiveMember2023-12-310000932470teo:CableImagenMemberteo:IfrsTaxYear2021ThreeMember2023-12-310000932470teo:AvcContinenteAudiovisualMemberteo:IfrsTaxYear2023FiveMember2023-12-310000932470teo:AvcContinenteAudiovisualMemberteo:IfrsTaxYear2022FourMember2023-12-310000932470teo:AvcContinenteAudiovisualMemberteo:IfrsTaxYear2021TwoMember2023-12-310000932470srt:ParentCompanyMember2023-12-310000932470teo:LaCapitalCableS.a.Member2021-01-012021-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:LeasesRealEstateAndOthersMember2023-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:LeasesPolesMember2023-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:LeaseSiteMember2023-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:IndefeasibleRightsOfUseMember2023-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:AssetRetirementObligationMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:LeasesRealEstateAndOthersMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:LeasesPolesMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:LeaseSiteMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:IndefeasibleRightsOfUseMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:AssetRetirementObligationMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:LeasesRealEstateAndOthersMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:LeasesPolesMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:LeaseSiteMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:IndefeasibleRightsOfUseMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:AssetRetirementObligationMember2023-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:LeasesRealEstateAndOthersMember2022-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:LeasesPolesMember2022-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:LeaseSiteMember2022-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:IndefeasibleRightsOfUseMember2022-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:AssetRetirementObligationMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:LeasesRealEstateAndOthersMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:LeasesPolesMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:LeaseSiteMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:IndefeasibleRightsOfUseMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:AssetRetirementObligationMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:LeasesRealEstateAndOthersMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:LeasesPolesMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:LeaseSiteMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:IndefeasibleRightsOfUseMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:AssetRetirementObligationMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:LeasesRealEstateAndOthersMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:LeasesPolesMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:LeaseSiteMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:IndefeasibleRightsOfUseMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:AssetRetirementObligationMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:LeasesRealEstateAndOthersMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:LeasesPolesMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:LeaseSiteMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:IndefeasibleRightsOfUseMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:AssetRetirementObligationMember2021-12-310000932470teo:VerT.v.S.a.Memberteo:ServicesRevenuesAndOtherRevenuesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:OphMemberteo:ServicesRevenuesAndOtherRevenuesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:LaCapitalCableS.aMemberteo:ServicesRevenuesAndOtherRevenuesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherRelatedPartiesMemberteo:ServicesAndAdvertisingRevenuesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:RelatedPartiesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AssociatesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:LaCapitalCableS.aMemberteo:ServicesRevenuesAndOtherRevenuesMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherRelatedPartiesMemberteo:ServicesAndAdvertisingRevenuesMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:RelatedPartiesMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AssociatesMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:VerT.v.S.a.Memberteo:ServicesRevenuesAndOtherRevenuesMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470teo:LaCapitalCableS.aMemberteo:ServicesRevenuesAndOtherRevenuesMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherRelatedPartiesMemberteo:ServicesAndAdvertisingRevenuesMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:RelatedPartiesMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AssociatesMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470teo:ServicesRenderedInArgentinaSegmentMemberteo:RestatedValuesForInflationMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:ServicesRenderedInArgentinaSegmentMemberteo:AmountsAreNotAdjustedForInflationMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:RestatementEffectOfInflationMemberteo:ServicesRenderedInArgentinaSegmentMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:RestatementEffectOfInflationMemberteo:OtherAbroadSegmentsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:OtherAbroadSegmentsMemberteo:RestatedValuesForInflationMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:OtherAbroadSegmentsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:ForeignCountriesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:EliminationOfIntersegmentAmountsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:CountryOfDomicileMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:ServicesRenderedInArgentinaSegmentMemberteo:RestatedValuesForInflationMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:ServicesRenderedInArgentinaSegmentMemberteo:AmountsAreNotAdjustedForInflationMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:RestatementEffectOfInflationMemberteo:ServicesRenderedInArgentinaSegmentMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:RestatementEffectOfInflationMemberteo:OtherAbroadSegmentsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:OtherAbroadSegmentsMemberteo:RestatedValuesForInflationMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:OtherAbroadSegmentsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:ForeignCountriesMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:EliminationOfIntersegmentAmountsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:CountryOfDomicileMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:ServicesRenderedInArgentinaSegmentMemberteo:RestatedValuesForInflationMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470teo:ServicesRenderedInArgentinaSegmentMemberteo:AmountsAreNotAdjustedForInflationMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470teo:RestatementEffectOfInflationMemberteo:ServicesRenderedInArgentinaSegmentMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470teo:RestatementEffectOfInflationMemberteo:OtherAbroadSegmentsMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470teo:OtherAbroadSegmentsMemberteo:RestatedValuesForInflationMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470teo:OtherAbroadSegmentsMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:ForeignCountriesMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:EliminationOfIntersegmentAmountsMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:CountryOfDomicileMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470teo:CashGeneratingUnitOfArgentinaMember2023-12-310000932470teo:CashGeneratingUnitOfArgentinaMember2022-09-300000932470teo:OtherShareholdersMemberteo:TeledifusoraSanMiguelArcangelS.a.Member2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:MicroFintechHoldingMember2023-10-112023-10-110000932470teo:UbiquoMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:TuvesParaguayMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:TelevisinDirigidaMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:TelemasS.aMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:TelecomUsaMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:PersonalSmarthomeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:PersonalEnviosMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:PemS.a.Member2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:OpalkerS.a.Member2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:Nys2Member2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:NucleoMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:NegociosYServiciosS.a.uMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:MicroSistemasMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:MicroFintechHoldingMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:InterRadiosMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:CableImagenMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:AvcContinenteAudiovisualMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:AdesolMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:OpenPassHoldingLlcMember2023-04-012023-04-300000932470teo:OpenPassHoldingLlcMember2023-04-012023-04-300000932470teo:OpenPassHoldingLlcMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:UteErtachCablevisionMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:TowerAndPoleMember2023-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:SwitchingEquipmentMember2023-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:PropertyPlantAndEquipmentWithoutMaterialsMember2023-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:PowerEquipmentAndInstallationsMember2023-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:MobileNetworkAccessMember2023-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:MaterialsMember2023-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:MachineryDiverseEquipmentAndToolsMember2023-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:IfrsRealEstateMember2023-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:GoodsLentToCustomersAtNoCostMember2023-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:FixedNetworkAndTransportationMember2023-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberifrs-full:VehiclesMember2023-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberifrs-full:OtherPropertyPlantAndEquipmentMember2023-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberifrs-full:ConstructionInProgressMember2023-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberifrs-full:ComputerEquipmentMember2023-12-310000932470teo:AllowanceForObsolescenceAndImpairmentOfMaterialsMemberteo:MaterialsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:TowerAndPoleMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:SwitchingEquipmentMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:PropertyPlantAndEquipmentWithoutMaterialsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:PowerEquipmentAndInstallationsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:MobileNetworkAccessMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:MaterialsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:MachineryDiverseEquipmentAndToolsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:IfrsRealEstateMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:GoodsLentToCustomersAtNoCostMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:FixedNetworkAndTransportationMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:VehiclesMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:OtherPropertyPlantAndEquipmentMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:ConstructionInProgressMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:ComputerEquipmentMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedImpairmentMemberteo:PropertyPlantAndEquipmentWithoutMaterialsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedImpairmentMemberteo:MaterialsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:TowerAndPoleMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:SwitchingEquipmentMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:PropertyPlantAndEquipmentWithoutMaterialsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:PowerEquipmentAndInstallationsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:MobileNetworkAccessMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:MachineryDiverseEquipmentAndToolsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:IfrsRealEstateMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:GoodsLentToCustomersAtNoCostMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:FixedNetworkAndTransportationMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:VehiclesMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:OtherPropertyPlantAndEquipmentMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:ComputerEquipmentMember2023-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMember2023-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:TowerAndPoleMember2022-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:SwitchingEquipmentMember2022-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:PropertyPlantAndEquipmentWithoutMaterialsMember2022-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:PowerEquipmentAndInstallationsMember2022-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:MobileNetworkAccessMember2022-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:MaterialsMember2022-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:MachineryDiverseEquipmentAndToolsMember2022-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:IfrsRealEstateMember2022-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:GoodsLentToCustomersAtNoCostMember2022-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberteo:FixedNetworkAndTransportationMember2022-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberifrs-full:VehiclesMember2022-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberifrs-full:OtherPropertyPlantAndEquipmentMember2022-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberifrs-full:ConstructionInProgressMember2022-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMemberifrs-full:ComputerEquipmentMember2022-12-310000932470teo:AllowanceForObsolescenceAndImpairmentOfMaterialsMemberteo:MaterialsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:TowerAndPoleMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:SwitchingEquipmentMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:PropertyPlantAndEquipmentWithoutMaterialsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:PowerEquipmentAndInstallationsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:MobileNetworkAccessMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:MaterialsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:MachineryDiverseEquipmentAndToolsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:IfrsRealEstateMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:GoodsLentToCustomersAtNoCostMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:FixedNetworkAndTransportationMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:VehiclesMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:OtherPropertyPlantAndEquipmentMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:ConstructionInProgressMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:ComputerEquipmentMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedImpairmentMemberteo:PropertyPlantAndEquipmentWithoutMaterialsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedImpairmentMemberteo:MaterialsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:TowerAndPoleMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:SwitchingEquipmentMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:PropertyPlantAndEquipmentWithoutMaterialsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:PowerEquipmentAndInstallationsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:MobileNetworkAccessMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:MachineryDiverseEquipmentAndToolsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:IfrsRealEstateMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:GoodsLentToCustomersAtNoCostMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:FixedNetworkAndTransportationMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:VehiclesMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:OtherPropertyPlantAndEquipmentMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:ComputerEquipmentMember2022-12-310000932470teo:GrossCarryingAmountNetOfAccumulatedDepreciationMember2022-12-310000932470teo:AllowanceForObsolescenceAndImpairmentOfMaterialsMemberteo:MaterialsMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:TowerAndPoleMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:SwitchingEquipmentMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:PropertyPlantAndEquipmentWithoutMaterialsMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:PowerEquipmentAndInstallationsMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:MobileNetworkAccessMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:MaterialsMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:MachineryDiverseEquipmentAndToolsMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:IfrsRealEstateMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:GoodsLentToCustomersAtNoCostMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:FixedNetworkAndTransportationMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:VehiclesMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:OtherPropertyPlantAndEquipmentMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:ConstructionInProgressMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:ComputerEquipmentMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedImpairmentMemberteo:PropertyPlantAndEquipmentWithoutMaterialsMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:TowerAndPoleMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:SwitchingEquipmentMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:PropertyPlantAndEquipmentWithoutMaterialsMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:PowerEquipmentAndInstallationsMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:MobileNetworkAccessMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:MachineryDiverseEquipmentAndToolsMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:IfrsRealEstateMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:GoodsLentToCustomersAtNoCostMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:FixedNetworkAndTransportationMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:VehiclesMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:OtherPropertyPlantAndEquipmentMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:ComputerEquipmentMember2021-12-310000932470teo:CostaneraBuildingMember2023-11-012023-11-300000932470teo:NotesSeriesEighteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Memberteo:InflationRestatementMember2023-11-012023-11-300000932470teo:NotesSeriesEighteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Member2023-11-012023-11-300000932470teo:LoanFromExportDevelopmentCanadaEdcMemberteo:InflationRestatementMember2023-09-282023-09-280000932470teo:LoanFromExportDevelopmentCanadaEdcMember2023-09-282023-09-280000932470teo:LoanFromCiscoSystemsCapitalCorporationCiscoYOtrosMemberteo:InflationRestatementMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromCiscoSystemsCapitalCorporationCiscoYOtrosMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromInternationalFinanceCorporationIfcMemberteo:InflationRestatementMember2022-07-152022-07-150000932470teo:LoanFromInternationalFinanceCorporationIfcMember2022-07-152022-07-150000932470teo:LoanFromExportDevelopmentCanadaEdcMember2022-06-012022-06-300000932470teo:LoanFromFinnveraMemberteo:InflationRestatementMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromExportDevelopmentCanadaEdcMemberteo:InflationRestatementMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromCiscoSystemsCapitalCorporationCiscoYOtrosMemberteo:InflationRestatementMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromFinnveraMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromCiscoSystemsCapitalCorporationCiscoYOtrosMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:OphMemberteo:ShareSubscriptionAgreementMember2023-04-240000932470teo:NyssaMember2022-06-010000932470ifrs-full:ProvisionForDecommissioningRestorationAndRehabilitationCostsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:LegalProceedingsProvisionMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:ProvisionForDecommissioningRestorationAndRehabilitationCostsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:LegalProceedingsProvisionMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:ProvisionForDecommissioningRestorationAndRehabilitationCostsMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:LegalProceedingsProvisionMember2021-12-310000932470teo:OtherExpensesMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:OperatingCostsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:CommercializationCostMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:AdministrationCostsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:OtherExpensesMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470teo:OperatingCostsMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470teo:CommercializationCostMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470teo:AdministrationCostsMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470teo:NonDeliverableForwardContractsMemberteo:ExchangeRateHedgesMemberifrs-full:CashFlowHedgesMember2023-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesEighteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:ARS2023-11-300000932470teo:NotesSeriesFourteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2023-02-280000932470teo:NonDeliverableForwardContractsMemberteo:ExchangeRateHedgesMemberifrs-full:CashFlowHedgesMember2022-12-310000932470teo:NonDeliverableForwardContractsMemberteo:LiborHedgesMemberifrs-full:CashFlowHedgesMember2022-09-300000932470teo:InternationalFinanceCorporationLoanMemberteo:LiborHedgesMemberifrs-full:CashFlowHedgesMember2022-09-300000932470teo:InterAmericanInvestmentCorporationLoanMemberteo:LiborHedgesMemberifrs-full:CashFlowHedgesMember2022-09-300000932470teo:NotesSeriesTweleveMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2022-08-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesTweleveMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2022-03-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesThirteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:ARS2022-03-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesElevenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:ARS2021-12-310000932470teo:NonDeliverableForwardContractsMemberteo:ExchangeRateHedgesMemberifrs-full:CashFlowHedgesMember2021-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesNineMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2021-06-300000932470teo:NotesSeriesFourMemberteo:NucleoMember2021-03-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesFiveMemberteo:NucleoMember2021-03-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesEightMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:ARS2021-01-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesSevenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:ARS2020-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesFiveMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2020-08-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesThreeMemberteo:NucleoMember2020-03-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesOneMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2019-07-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesTwoMemberteo:NucleoMember2019-03-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesOneMemberteo:NucleoMember2019-03-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesNineteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Member2023-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesNineteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Memberteo:InflationRestatementMember2023-11-300000932470teo:NotesSeriesEighteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Memberteo:InflationRestatementMember2023-11-300000932470teo:NotesSeriesNineteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Member2023-11-300000932470teo:NotesSeriesEighteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Member2023-11-300000932470teo:NotesSeriesSixteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Memberteo:InflationRestatementMember2023-07-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesSixteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Member2023-07-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesFifteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Memberteo:InflationRestatementMember2023-06-300000932470teo:NotesSeriesFifteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Member2023-06-300000932470teo:NotesSeriesTweleveMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Memberteo:InflationRestatementMember2022-08-160000932470teo:NotesSeriesTweleveMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Member2022-08-160000932470ifrs-full:NoncurrentAssetsHeldForSaleMemberteo:CostaneraBuildingMember2022-03-210000932470teo:TradeReceivablesNetMemberteo:PastDueMemberifrs-full:CreditRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:TradeReceivablesNetMemberifrs-full:CurrentMemberifrs-full:CreditRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:OtherReceivablesNetMemberteo:PastDueMemberifrs-full:CreditRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:OtherReceivablesNetMemberifrs-full:CurrentMemberifrs-full:CreditRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:IfrsInvestmentsMemberifrs-full:CurrentMemberifrs-full:CreditRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:IfrsCashAndCashEquivalentsMemberifrs-full:CurrentMemberifrs-full:CreditRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:TradeReceivablesNetMemberifrs-full:CreditRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:PastDueMemberifrs-full:CreditRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:OtherReceivablesNetMemberifrs-full:CreditRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:IfrsInvestmentsMemberifrs-full:CreditRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:IfrsCashAndCashEquivalentsMemberifrs-full:CreditRiskMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:CurrentMemberifrs-full:CreditRiskMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:CreditRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:RadioelectricSpectrumFeesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:RemeasurementInterestsAndRelatedExpensesNonCurrentMember2023-12-310000932470teo:PurchaseOfEquipmentNonCurrentMember2023-12-310000932470teo:PrincipalDueOnNotesNonCurrentMember2023-12-310000932470teo:BankAndOtherFinancialEntitiesLoansNonCurrentMember2023-12-310000932470teo:RemeasurementInterestsAndRelatedExpensesNonCurrentMember2022-12-310000932470teo:PurchaseOfEquipmentNonCurrentMember2022-12-310000932470teo:PrincipalDueOnNotesNonCurrentMember2022-12-310000932470teo:BankAndOtherFinancialEntitiesLoansNonCurrentMember2022-12-310000932470teo:ClassOrdinarySharesMember2023-12-310000932470teo:ClassDOrdinarySharesMember2023-12-310000932470teo:ClassCOrdinarySharesMember2023-12-310000932470teo:ClassBOrdinarySharesMember2023-12-310000932470teo:OpenPassHoldingLlcMember2023-12-310000932470teo:VerT.v.S.a.Member2023-12-310000932470teo:TeledifusoraSanMiguelArcangelS.a.Member2023-12-310000932470teo:LaCapitalCableS.a.Member2023-12-310000932470teo:VerT.v.S.a.Member2022-12-310000932470teo:TeledifusoraSanMiguelArcangelS.a.Member2022-12-310000932470teo:LaCapitalCableS.a.Member2022-12-310000932470teo:TelecommunicationsFundMember2023-12-310000932470teo:InvestmentInAssociateAndJointVentureMember2023-12-310000932470teo:TelecommunicationsFundMember2022-12-310000932470teo:InvestmentInAssociateAndJointVentureMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:FiveGLicensesMemberteo:ScResolutionNumber2852023Member2023-12-310000932470teo:CarryingAmountAfterAccumulatedAmortisationMemberteo:PersonalCommunicationsServiceAndServicioRadioelctricoDeConcentracinDeEnlacesLicensesArgentinaMember2023-12-310000932470teo:CarryingAmountAfterAccumulatedAmortisationMemberteo:NucleoSLicensesMember2023-12-310000932470teo:CarryingAmountAfterAccumulatedAmortisationMemberteo:Licenses5gMember2023-12-310000932470teo:CarryingAmountAfterAccumulatedAmortisationMemberteo:Licenses3g4gMember2023-12-310000932470teo:CarryingAmountAfterAccumulatedAmortisationMemberteo:InternallyGeneratedSoftwareMember2023-12-310000932470teo:CarryingAmountAfterAccumulatedAmortisationMemberteo:IncrementalCostFromAcquisitionOfContractsMember2023-12-310000932470teo:CarryingAmountAfterAccumulatedAmortisationMemberteo:ContentActivationMember2023-12-310000932470teo:CarryingAmountAfterAccumulatedAmortisationMemberteo:BrandsMember2023-12-310000932470teo:CarryingAmountAfterAccumulatedAmortisationMemberifrs-full:OtherIntangibleAssetsMember2023-12-310000932470teo:CarryingAmountAfterAccumulatedAmortisationMemberifrs-full:CustomerrelatedIntangibleAssetsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:PersonalCommunicationsServiceAndServicioRadioelctricoDeConcentracinDeEnlacesLicensesArgentinaMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:NucleoSLicensesMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:Licenses5gMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:Licenses3g4gMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:InternallyGeneratedSoftwareMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:IncrementalCostFromAcquisitionOfContractsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:ContentActivationMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:BrandsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:OtherIntangibleAssetsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:CustomerrelatedIntangibleAssetsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:NucleoSLicensesMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:Licenses5gMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:Licenses3g4gMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:InternallyGeneratedSoftwareMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:IncrementalCostFromAcquisitionOfContractsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:ContentActivationMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:BrandsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:OtherIntangibleAssetsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:CustomerrelatedIntangibleAssetsMember2023-12-310000932470teo:CarryingAmountAfterAccumulatedAmortisationMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedImpairmentMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMember2023-12-310000932470teo:CarryingAmountAfterAccumulatedAmortisationMemberteo:PersonalCommunicationsServiceAndServicioRadioelctricoDeConcentracinDeEnlacesLicensesArgentinaMember2022-12-310000932470teo:CarryingAmountAfterAccumulatedAmortisationMemberteo:NucleoSLicensesMember2022-12-310000932470teo:CarryingAmountAfterAccumulatedAmortisationMemberteo:Licenses3g4gMember2022-12-310000932470teo:CarryingAmountAfterAccumulatedAmortisationMemberteo:InternallyGeneratedSoftwareMember2022-12-310000932470teo:CarryingAmountAfterAccumulatedAmortisationMemberteo:IncrementalCostFromAcquisitionOfContractsMember2022-12-310000932470teo:CarryingAmountAfterAccumulatedAmortisationMemberteo:ContentActivationMember2022-12-310000932470teo:CarryingAmountAfterAccumulatedAmortisationMemberteo:BrandsMember2022-12-310000932470teo:CarryingAmountAfterAccumulatedAmortisationMemberifrs-full:OtherIntangibleAssetsMember2022-12-310000932470teo:CarryingAmountAfterAccumulatedAmortisationMemberifrs-full:CustomerrelatedIntangibleAssetsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:PersonalCommunicationsServiceAndServicioRadioelctricoDeConcentracinDeEnlacesLicensesArgentinaMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:NucleoSLicensesMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:Licenses3g4gMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:InternallyGeneratedSoftwareMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:IncrementalCostFromAcquisitionOfContractsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:ContentActivationMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:BrandsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:OtherIntangibleAssetsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:CustomerrelatedIntangibleAssetsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:NucleoSLicensesMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:Licenses3g4gMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:InternallyGeneratedSoftwareMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:IncrementalCostFromAcquisitionOfContractsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:ContentActivationMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:BrandsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:OtherIntangibleAssetsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:CustomerrelatedIntangibleAssetsMember2022-12-310000932470teo:CarryingAmountAfterAccumulatedAmortisationMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedImpairmentMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:PersonalCommunicationsServiceAndServicioRadioelctricoDeConcentracinDeEnlacesLicensesArgentinaMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:NucleoSLicensesMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:Licenses3g4gMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:InternallyGeneratedSoftwareMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:IncrementalCostFromAcquisitionOfContractsMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:ContentActivationMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:BrandsMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:OtherIntangibleAssetsMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:CustomerrelatedIntangibleAssetsMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:NucleoSLicensesMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:Licenses3g4gMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:InternallyGeneratedSoftwareMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:IncrementalCostFromAcquisitionOfContractsMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:ContentActivationMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:BrandsMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:OtherIntangibleAssetsMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:CustomerrelatedIntangibleAssetsMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedImpairmentMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:CustomerrelatedIntangibleAssetsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:VoluntaryReserveForCapitalInvestmentsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AdditionalPaidinCapitalMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:VoluntaryReserveForCapitalInvestmentsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AdditionalPaidinCapitalMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470srt:AffiliatedEntityMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:SubsidiariesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470srt:AffiliatedEntityMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:SubsidiariesMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470srt:AffiliatedEntityMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:SubsidiariesMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:NoncurrentAssetsHeldForSaleMemberteo:CostaneraBuildingMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedImpairmentMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:NoncurrentAssetsHeldForSaleMemberteo:CostaneraBuildingMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedImpairmentMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:CashGeneratingUnitOfArgentinaMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:NyssaMember2022-12-310000932470teo:AbroadMember2023-12-310000932470country:AR2023-12-310000932470teo:AbroadMember2022-12-310000932470country:AR2022-12-310000932470teo:DerivativeFinancialLiabilitiesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:DerivativeFinancialLiabilitiesMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:DerivativeFinancialLiabilitiesMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialLiabilitiesAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLossCategoryMemberteo:IfrsOtherLiabilitiesMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialLiabilitiesAtAmortisedCostCategoryMemberteo:TradePayablesMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialLiabilitiesAtAmortisedCostCategoryMemberteo:LeasesLiabilitiesMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialLiabilitiesAtAmortisedCostCategoryMemberteo:IfrsOtherLiabilitiesMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialLiabilitiesAtAmortisedCostCategoryMemberteo:FinancialDebtMember2023-12-310000932470teo:TradePayablesMember2023-12-310000932470teo:LeasesLiabilitiesMember2023-12-310000932470teo:IfrsOtherLiabilitiesMember2023-12-310000932470teo:FinancialDebtOtherMember2023-12-310000932470teo:FinancialDebtNotesPayablesMember2023-12-310000932470teo:FinancialDebtMember2023-12-310000932470teo:FinancialDebtMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialLiabilitiesAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLossCategoryMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialLiabilitiesAtAmortisedCostCategoryMember2023-12-310000932470teo:FinancialLiabilitiesAtFairValueThroughOtherComprehensiveIncomeCategoryMemberteo:FinancialDebtMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialLiabilitiesAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLossCategoryMemberteo:IfrsOtherLiabilitiesMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialLiabilitiesAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLossCategoryMemberteo:FinancialDebtMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialLiabilitiesAtAmortisedCostCategoryMemberteo:TradePayablesMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialLiabilitiesAtAmortisedCostCategoryMemberteo:LeasesLiabilitiesMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialLiabilitiesAtAmortisedCostCategoryMemberteo:IfrsOtherLiabilitiesMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialLiabilitiesAtAmortisedCostCategoryMemberteo:FinancialDebtMember2022-12-310000932470teo:TradePayablesMember2022-12-310000932470teo:LeasesLiabilitiesMember2022-12-310000932470teo:IfrsOtherLiabilitiesMember2022-12-310000932470teo:FinancialLiabilitiesAtFairValueThroughOtherComprehensiveIncomeCategoryMember2022-12-310000932470teo:FinancialDebtOtherMember2022-12-310000932470teo:FinancialDebtNotesPayablesMember2022-12-310000932470teo:FinancialDebtMember2022-12-310000932470teo:FinancialDebtMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialLiabilitiesAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLossCategoryMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialLiabilitiesAtAmortisedCostCategoryMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:Level2OfFairValueHierarchyMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:Level1OfFairValueHierarchyMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialAssetsAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLossCategoryMemberteo:OtherReceivablesMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialAssetsAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLossCategoryMemberteo:IfrsInvestmentsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialAssetsAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLossCategoryMemberteo:IfrsCashAndCashEquivalentsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialAssetsAtFairValueThroughOtherComprehensiveIncomeCategoryMemberteo:OtherReceivablesMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialAssetsAtAmortisedCostCategoryMemberteo:OtherReceivablesMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialAssetsAtAmortisedCostCategoryMemberteo:IfrsInvestmentsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialAssetsAtAmortisedCostCategoryMemberteo:IfrsCashAndCashEquivalentsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialAssetsAtAmortisedCostCategoryMemberifrs-full:TradeReceivablesMember2023-12-310000932470teo:OtherReceivablesMember2023-12-310000932470teo:IfrsInvestmentsMember2023-12-310000932470teo:IfrsCashAndCashEquivalentsMember2023-12-310000932470teo:DerivativeFinancialAssetsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:TradeReceivablesMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialAssetsAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLossCategoryMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialAssetsAtFairValueThroughOtherComprehensiveIncomeCategoryMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialAssetsAtAmortisedCostCategoryMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:Level2OfFairValueHierarchyMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:Level1OfFairValueHierarchyMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialAssetsAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLossCategoryMemberteo:OtherReceivablesMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialAssetsAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLossCategoryMemberteo:IfrsInvestmentsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialAssetsAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLossCategoryMemberteo:IfrsCashAndCashEquivalentsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialAssetsAtFairValueThroughOtherComprehensiveIncomeCategoryMemberteo:OtherReceivablesMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialAssetsAtAmortisedCostCategoryMemberteo:OtherReceivablesMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialAssetsAtAmortisedCostCategoryMemberteo:IfrsCashAndCashEquivalentsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialAssetsAtAmortisedCostCategoryMemberifrs-full:TradeReceivablesMember2022-12-310000932470teo:OtherReceivablesMember2022-12-310000932470teo:IfrsInvestmentsMember2022-12-310000932470teo:IfrsCashAndCashEquivalentsMember2022-12-310000932470teo:DerivativeFinancialAssetsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:TradeReceivablesMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialAssetsAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLossCategoryMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialAssetsAtFairValueThroughOtherComprehensiveIncomeCategoryMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialAssetsAtAmortisedCostCategoryMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2022-12-310000932470teo:TreasurySharesInflationAdjustmentMember2023-12-310000932470teo:SpecialReserveForIfrsImplementationMember2023-12-310000932470teo:OutstandingSharesCapitalNominalValueMember2023-12-310000932470teo:FacultativeReserveMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:StatutoryReserveMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:RetainedEarningsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:NoncontrollingInterestsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParentMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AdditionalPaidinCapitalMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember2023-12-310000932470teo:TreasurySharesInflationAdjustmentMember2022-12-310000932470teo:SpecialReserveForIfrsImplementationMember2022-12-310000932470teo:OutstandingSharesCapitalNominalValueMember2022-12-310000932470teo:FacultativeReserveMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:StatutoryReserveMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:RetainedEarningsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:NoncontrollingInterestsMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParentMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AdditionalPaidinCapitalMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember2022-12-310000932470teo:TreasurySharesInflationAdjustmentMember2021-12-310000932470teo:SpecialReserveForIfrsImplementationMember2021-12-310000932470teo:OutstandingSharesCapitalNominalValueMember2021-12-310000932470teo:FacultativeReserveMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:StatutoryReserveMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:RetainedEarningsMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:NoncontrollingInterestsMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParentMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AdditionalPaidinCapitalMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember2021-12-310000932470teo:TreasurySharesInflationAdjustmentMember2020-12-310000932470teo:SpecialReserveForIfrsImplementationMember2020-12-310000932470teo:OutstandingSharesCapitalNominalValueMember2020-12-310000932470teo:FacultativeReserveMember2020-12-310000932470ifrs-full:StatutoryReserveMember2020-12-310000932470ifrs-full:RetainedEarningsMember2020-12-310000932470ifrs-full:NoncontrollingInterestsMember2020-12-310000932470ifrs-full:EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParentMember2020-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AdditionalPaidinCapitalMember2020-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember2020-12-310000932470teo:FacultativeReserveMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:FacultativeReserveMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:FacultativeReserveMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470teo:VerT.v1Memberteo:InflationRestatementMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:VerT.v.S.a.Memberteo:InflationRestatementMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:TeledifusoraSanMiguelArcangelS.a.Memberteo:InflationRestatementMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:LaCapitalCableS.a.Memberteo:InflationRestatementMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:VerT.v1Member2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:VerT.v.S.a.Member2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:TeledifusoraSanMiguelArcangelS.a.Member2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:LaCapitalCableS.a.Member2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:VerT.v.S.a.Memberteo:InflationRestatementMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:TeledifusoraSanMiguelArcangelS.a.Memberteo:InflationRestatementMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:LaCapitalCableS.a.Memberteo:InflationRestatementMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:VerT.v.S.a.Member2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:TeledifusoraSanMiguelArcangelS.a.Member2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:LaCapitalCableS.a.Member2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:VerT.v.S.a.Memberteo:InflationRestatementMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470teo:TeledifusoraSanMiguelArcangelS.a.Memberteo:InflationRestatementMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470teo:VerT.v.S.a.Member2021-01-012021-12-310000932470teo:TeledifusoraSanMiguelArcangelS.a.Member2021-01-012021-12-310000932470teo:NucleoMemberteo:InflationRestatementMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:InflationRestatementMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:InflationRestatementMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:NucleoMemberteo:InflationRestatementMember2021-05-012021-05-310000932470teo:InflationRestatementMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470teo:NucleoMemberteo:InflationRestatementMember2020-05-012020-05-310000932470teo:NucleoMemberteo:InflationRestatementMember2020-04-012020-04-300000932470teo:NucleoMemberteo:InflationRestatementMember2022-04-300000932470teo:NucleoMember2022-04-300000932470teo:NucleoMemberteo:InflationRestatementOneMember2021-04-300000932470teo:NucleoMemberteo:CurrencyOfTransactionDateOneMember2021-04-300000932470teo:NucleoMember2020-04-300000932470teo:AllowanceForObsolescenceAndImpairmentOfMaterialsMemberteo:MaterialsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:AllowanceForObsolescenceAndImpairmentOfMaterialsMemberteo:MaterialsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherIntangibleAssetsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:TowerAndPoleMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:TowerAndPoleMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:InternallyGeneratedSoftwareMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:LeasesRealEstateAndOthersMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:LeasesPolesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:LeaseSiteMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:IndefeasibleRightsOfUseMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:AssetRetirementObligationMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:LeasesRealEstateAndOthersMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:LeasesPolesMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:LeaseSiteMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:IndefeasibleRightsOfUseMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:AssetRetirementObligationMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:TowerAndPoleMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:SwitchingEquipmentMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:PropertyPlantAndEquipmentWithoutMaterialsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:PowerEquipmentAndInstallationsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:MobileNetworkAccessMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:MachineryDiverseEquipmentAndToolsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:IfrsRealEstateMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:GoodsLentToCustomersAtNoCostMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:FixedNetworkAndTransportationMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:VehiclesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:OtherPropertyPlantAndEquipmentMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:ComputerEquipmentMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:TowerAndPoleMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:SwitchingEquipmentMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:MobileNetworkAccessMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:IfrsRealEstateMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:VehiclesMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:OtherPropertyPlantAndEquipmentMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:ComputerEquipmentMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:OtherExpensesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:CommercializationCostMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:AdministrationCostsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:PemS.a.Member2023-12-310000932470teo:OpalkerMember2023-12-310000932470teo:NyssaMember2023-12-310000932470teo:NcleoMember2023-12-310000932470teo:AdesolMember2023-12-310000932470teo:PemS.a.Member2022-12-310000932470teo:OpalkerMember2022-12-310000932470teo:NyssaMember2022-12-310000932470teo:NcleoMember2022-12-310000932470teo:AdesolMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:ForeignCountriesMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:CountryOfDomicileMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:ForeignCountriesMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:CountryOfDomicileMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialAssetsAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLossCategoryMemberteo:GovernmentBondsMember2023-12-310000932470teo:TimeDepositsMember2023-12-310000932470teo:MutualFundsMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:OtherPriceRiskMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:FinancialAssetsAtFairValueThroughProfitOrLossCategoryMemberteo:GovernmentBondsMember2022-12-310000932470teo:MutualFundsMember2022-12-310000932470teo:OtherLiabilitiesDebtForBusinessAcquisitionMemberifrs-full:Level2OfFairValueHierarchyMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2023-12-310000932470teo:OtherLiabilitiesDebtForBusinessAcquisitionMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2023-12-310000932470teo:OtherLiabilitiesDebtForBusinessAcquisitionMemberifrs-full:Level2OfFairValueHierarchyMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2022-12-310000932470teo:DerivativeFinancialLiabilitiesMemberifrs-full:Level2OfFairValueHierarchyMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2022-12-310000932470teo:OtherLiabilitiesDebtForBusinessAcquisitionMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2022-12-310000932470teo:DerivativeFinancialLiabilitiesMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2022-12-310000932470teo:DerivativeFinancialLiabilitiesMember2022-12-310000932470teo:MutualFundsMemberifrs-full:Level1OfFairValueHierarchyMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2023-12-310000932470teo:IndemnificationAssetsMemberifrs-full:Level2OfFairValueHierarchyMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2023-12-310000932470teo:GovernmentBondsMemberifrs-full:Level1OfFairValueHierarchyMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2023-12-310000932470teo:DerivativeFinancialAssetsMemberifrs-full:Level2OfFairValueHierarchyMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2023-12-310000932470teo:MutualFundsMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2023-12-310000932470teo:IndemnificationAssetsMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2023-12-310000932470teo:GovernmentBondsMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2023-12-310000932470teo:DerivativeFinancialAssetsMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2023-12-310000932470teo:MutualFundsMemberifrs-full:Level1OfFairValueHierarchyMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2022-12-310000932470teo:IndemnificationAssetsMemberifrs-full:Level2OfFairValueHierarchyMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2022-12-310000932470teo:GovernmentBondsMemberifrs-full:Level1OfFairValueHierarchyMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2022-12-310000932470teo:DerivativeFinancialAssetsMemberifrs-full:Level2OfFairValueHierarchyMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2022-12-310000932470teo:MutualFundsMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2022-12-310000932470teo:IndemnificationAssetsMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2022-12-310000932470teo:GovernmentBondsMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2022-12-310000932470teo:DerivativeFinancialAssetsMemberifrs-full:AtFairValueMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:RetainedEarningsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:NoncontrollingInterestsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParentMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:RetainedEarningsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:NoncontrollingInterestsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParentMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:RetainedEarningsMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:NoncontrollingInterestsMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:EquityAttributableToOwnersOfParentMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember2021-01-012021-12-310000932470teo:OperatingCostsMember2023-01-012023-12-3100009324702020-12-310000932470teo:OphMemberteo:IfrsOtherLiabilitiesMember2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromRomboCompaaFinancieraMemberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMemberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMembercurrency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromRomboCompaaFinancieraMemberifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMemberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMembercurrency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromPsaFinanceArgentinaMemberteo:DueOnJuly2025Memberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMembercurrency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromCiscoSystemsCapitalCorporationCiscoYOtrosMemberteo:DueBetweenOctober2022ToNovember2026Memberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMembercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromChinaDevelopmentBankShenzhenBranchCdbMemberteo:DueOnDecember2027Memberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMembercurrency:CNY2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBbvaMemberteo:DueOnJuly2025Memberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMembercurrency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Memberteo:DueOnOctober2023Memberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMembercurrency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Memberteo:DueOnJune2023Memberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMembercurrency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Memberteo:DueOnJuly2023TwoMemberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMembercurrency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Memberteo:DueOnJuly2023Memberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMembercurrency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoIndustrialAndCommercialBankOfChinaArgentinaS.a.u.IcbcMemberteo:DueOnAugust2023Memberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMembercurrency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoBbvaArgentinaS.a.BbvaMemberteo:DueOnMay2023Memberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMembercurrency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoBbvaArgentinaS.a.BbvaMemberteo:DueOnMarch2023Memberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMembercurrency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:SecuredOvernightFinancingRateHedgesMemberifrs-full:CashFlowHedgesMemberteo:HedgeTwoMember2023-12-310000932470teo:SecuredOvernightFinancingRateHedgesMemberifrs-full:CashFlowHedgesMemberteo:HedgeThreeMember2023-12-310000932470teo:SecuredOvernightFinancingRateHedgesMemberifrs-full:CashFlowHedgesMemberteo:HedgeOneMember2023-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesEighteenMemberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2023-11-300000932470teo:NotesSeriesNineteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:ARS2023-11-300000932470teo:NotesSeriesSixteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2023-07-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesFifteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2023-06-300000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Memberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMember2023-03-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Memberifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMember2023-03-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesFourteenMemberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2023-02-280000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Memberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMember2022-10-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Memberifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMember2022-10-310000932470teo:NonDeliverableForwardContractsMemberteo:LiborHedgesMemberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMemberifrs-full:CashFlowHedgesMember2022-09-300000932470teo:NonDeliverableForwardContractsMemberteo:LiborHedgesMemberifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMemberifrs-full:CashFlowHedgesMember2022-09-300000932470teo:NotesSeriesTweleveMemberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2022-08-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Memberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMember2022-07-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Memberifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMember2022-07-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesTweleveMemberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2022-03-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesTenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:ARS2021-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesNineMemberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2021-06-300000932470teo:NotesSeriesFourMemberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMemberteo:NucleoMember2021-03-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesFiveMemberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMemberteo:NucleoMember2021-03-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesEightMemberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:ARS2021-01-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesSevenMemberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:ARS2020-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesFiveMemberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2020-08-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesThreeMemberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMemberteo:NucleoMember2020-03-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesOneMemberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2019-07-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesTwoMemberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMemberteo:NucleoMember2019-03-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesOneMemberifrs-full:FixedInterestRateMemberteo:NucleoMember2019-03-310000932470teo:LoanFromInternationalFinanceCorporationIfcMemberteo:DueOnMarch2027Memberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMemberteo:IfrsSecuredOvernightFinancingRateSofrOvernightIndexSwapRateMembercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromInternationalFinanceCorporationIfcMemberteo:DueOnMarch2027Memberifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMemberteo:IfrsSecuredOvernightFinancingRateSofrOvernightIndexSwapRateMembercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromInternationalFinanceCorporationIfcMemberteo:DueBetweenAugust2024ToAugust2025Memberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMemberteo:IfrsSecuredOvernightFinancingRateSofrOvernightIndexSwapRateMembercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromInternationalFinanceCorporationIfcMemberteo:DueBetweenAugust2024ToAugust2025Memberifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMemberteo:IfrsSecuredOvernightFinancingRateSofrOvernightIndexSwapRateMembercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromInterAmericanDevelopmentBankIdbMemberteo:DueOnJune2027Memberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMemberteo:IfrsSecuredOvernightFinancingRateSofrOvernightIndexSwapRateMembercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromInterAmericanDevelopmentBankIdbMemberteo:DueOnJune2027Memberifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMemberteo:IfrsSecuredOvernightFinancingRateSofrOvernightIndexSwapRateMembercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromFinnveraMemberteo:DueOnJune2023Memberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMemberteo:IfrsSecuredOvernightFinancingRateSofrOvernightIndexSwapRateMembercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromFinnveraMemberteo:DueBetweenNovember2025ToNovember2026Memberifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMemberteo:IfrsSecuredOvernightFinancingRateSofrOvernightIndexSwapRateMembercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromExportDevelopmentCanadaEdcMemberteo:DueBetweenDecember2026ToMay2028Memberifrs-full:TopOfRangeMemberteo:IfrsSecuredOvernightFinancingRateSofrOvernightIndexSwapRateMembercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromExportDevelopmentCanadaEdcMemberteo:DueBetweenDecember2026ToMay2028Memberifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMemberteo:IfrsSecuredOvernightFinancingRateSofrOvernightIndexSwapRateMembercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromInternationalFinanceCorporationIfcMemberteo:IfrsSecuredOvernightFinancingRateSofrOvernightIndexSwapRateMember2023-09-300000932470teo:LoanFromExportDevelopmentCanadaEdcMemberteo:IfrsSecuredOvernightFinancingRateSofrOvernightIndexSwapRateMember2023-09-280000932470teo:LoanFromFinnveraMemberteo:IfrsSecuredOvernightFinancingRateSofrOvernightIndexSwapRateMember2023-07-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesThirteenMemberteo:BadlarMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:ARS2022-03-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesElevenMemberteo:BadlarMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:ARS2021-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesTweleveMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesTenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesSixteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesOneMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesNineteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesNineMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesFourteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesFiveMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesFifteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesEightMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesEighteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromRomboCompaaFinancieraMemberteo:DueOnJuly2025Membercurrency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromPsaFinanceArgentinaMemberteo:DueOnJuly2025Membercurrency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromInternationalFinanceCorporationIfcMemberteo:DueOnMarch2027Membercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromInternationalFinanceCorporationIfcMemberteo:DueOnAugust2029Membercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromInternationalFinanceCorporationIfcMemberteo:DueBetweenAugust2024ToAugust2025Membercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromInterAmericanInvestmentCorporationIicMemberteo:DueOnDecember2024Membercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromInterAmericanDevelopmentBankIdbMemberteo:DueOnJune2027Membercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromFinnveraMemberteo:DueBetweenNovember2025ToNovember2026Membercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromExportDevelopmentCanadaEdcMemberteo:DueBetweenDecember2026ToMay2028Membercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromCiscoSystemsCapitalCorporationCiscoYOtrosMemberteo:DueBetweenOctober2022ToNovember2026Membercurrency:USD2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromChinaDevelopmentBankShenzhenBranchCdbMemberteo:DueOnDecember2027Membercurrency:CNY2023-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBbvaMemberteo:DueOnJuly2025Membercurrency:ARS2023-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesTwoMemberteo:NucleoMember2023-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesThreeMemberteo:NucleoMember2023-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesOneMemberteo:NucleoMember2023-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesFourMemberteo:NucleoMember2023-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesFiveMemberteo:NucleoMember2023-12-310000932470teo:ServicesRenderedInArgentinaSegmentMember2023-12-310000932470teo:RemeasurementInterestsAndRelatedExpensesCurrentMember2023-12-310000932470teo:PurchaseOfEquipmentCurrentMember2023-12-310000932470teo:PrincipalDueOnNotesCurrentMember2023-12-310000932470teo:OtherAbroadSegmentsMember2023-12-310000932470teo:IfrsBankOverdraftsMember2023-12-310000932470teo:BorrowingsWithInternationalFinanceCorporationInterAmericanInvestmentCorporationFinnveraExportDevelopmentCanadaAndChinaDevelopmentBankShenzhenBranchMember2023-12-310000932470teo:BankAndOtherFinancialEntitiesLoansCurrentMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:InterestRateRiskMember2023-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesTweleveMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2022-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesThirteenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:ARS2022-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesTenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:ARS2022-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesSevenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:ARS2022-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesOneMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2022-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesNineMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2022-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesFiveMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:USD2022-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesElevenMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:ARS2022-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesEightMemberteo:TelecomArgentinaS.a.Membercurrency:ARS2022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromPsaFinanceArgentinaMemberteo:DueOnJuly2025Membercurrency:ARS2022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromInternationalFinanceCorporationIfcMemberteo:DueOnMarch2027Membercurrency:USD2022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromInternationalFinanceCorporationIfcMemberteo:DueOnAugust2029Membercurrency:USD2022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromInternationalFinanceCorporationIfcMemberteo:DueBetweenAugust2024ToAugust2025Membercurrency:USD2022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromInterAmericanInvestmentCorporationIicMemberteo:DueOnDecember2024Membercurrency:USD2022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromInterAmericanDevelopmentBankIdbMemberteo:DueOnJune2027Membercurrency:USD2022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromFinnveraMemberteo:DueBetweenNovember2025ToNovember2026Membercurrency:USD2022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromExportDevelopmentCanadaEdcMemberteo:DueBetweenDecember2026ToMay2028Membercurrency:USD2022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromCiscoSystemsCapitalCorporationCiscoYOtrosMemberteo:DueBetweenOctober2022ToNovember2026Membercurrency:USD2022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromChinaDevelopmentBankShenzhenBranchCdbMemberteo:DueOnDecember2027Membercurrency:CNY2022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBbvaMemberteo:DueOnJuly2025Membercurrency:ARS2022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Memberteo:DueOnOctober2023Membercurrency:ARS2022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Memberteo:DueOnJune2023Membercurrency:ARS2022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Memberteo:DueOnJuly2023TwoMembercurrency:ARS2022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoSantanderArgentinaS.a.Memberteo:DueOnJuly2023Membercurrency:ARS2022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoIndustrialAndCommercialBankOfChinaArgentinaS.a.u.IcbcMemberteo:DueOnAugust2023Membercurrency:ARS2022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoBbvaArgentinaS.a.BbvaMemberteo:DueOnMay2023Membercurrency:ARS2022-12-310000932470teo:LoanFromBancoBbvaArgentinaS.a.BbvaMemberteo:DueOnMarch2023Membercurrency:ARS2022-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesTwoMemberteo:NucleoMember2022-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesThreeMemberteo:NucleoMember2022-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesOneMemberteo:NucleoMember2022-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesFourMemberteo:NucleoMember2022-12-310000932470teo:NotesSeriesFiveMemberteo:NucleoMember2022-12-310000932470teo:ServicesRenderedInArgentinaSegmentMember2022-12-310000932470teo:RemeasurementInterestsAndRelatedExpensesCurrentMember2022-12-310000932470teo:PurchaseOfEquipmentCurrentMember2022-12-310000932470teo:PrincipalDueOnNotesCurrentMember2022-12-310000932470teo:OtherAbroadSegmentsMember2022-12-310000932470teo:IfrsBankOverdraftsMember2022-12-310000932470teo:DerivativeFinancialInstrumentsContractsMember2022-12-310000932470teo:BankAndOtherFinancialEntitiesLoansCurrentMember2022-12-310000932470teo:ServicesRenderedInArgentinaSegmentMember2021-12-310000932470teo:OtherAbroadSegmentsMember2021-12-3100009324702021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:CurrencyRiskMember2023-12-3100009324702023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:CurrencyRiskMember2022-12-3100009324702022-12-310000932470country:CLsrt:ScenarioForecastMember2025-01-012025-12-310000932470country:CLifrs-full:ChangesInTaxRatesOrTaxLawsEnactedOrAnnouncedMembersrt:ScenarioForecastMember2024-01-012024-12-310000932470country:UY2023-01-012023-12-310000932470country:CL2023-01-012023-12-310000932470country:PY2020-01-012020-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:NucleoSLicensesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:Licenses5gMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:Licenses3g4gMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:InternallyGeneratedSoftwareMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:IncrementalCostFromAcquisitionOfContractsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:ContentActivationMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:OtherIntangibleAssetsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:CustomerrelatedIntangibleAssetsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:NucleoSLicensesMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:Licenses3g4gMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:InternallyGeneratedSoftwareMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:IncrementalCostFromAcquisitionOfContractsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:ContentActivationMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:OtherIntangibleAssetsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberifrs-full:CustomerrelatedIntangibleAssetsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:LeasesRealEstateAndOthersMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:LeasesPolesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:LeaseSiteMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:AssetRetirementObligationMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:LeasesRealEstateAndOthersMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:LeasesPolesMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:LeaseSiteMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:IndefeasibleRightsOfUseMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:AssetRetirementObligationMember2022-01-012022-12-3100009324702021-01-012021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:SwitchingEquipmentMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:PropertyPlantAndEquipmentWithoutMaterialsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:PowerEquipmentAndInstallationsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:MobileNetworkAccessMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:MaterialsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:MachineryDiverseEquipmentAndToolsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:IfrsRealEstateMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:GoodsLentToCustomersAtNoCostMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:FixedNetworkAndTransportationMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:VehiclesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:OtherPropertyPlantAndEquipmentMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:ConstructionInProgressMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:ComputerEquipmentMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:SwitchingEquipmentMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:MobileNetworkAccessMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:IfrsRealEstateMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:VehiclesMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:ConstructionInProgressMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:ComputerEquipmentMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:NucleoSLicensesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:Licenses5gMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:InternallyGeneratedSoftwareMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:IncrementalCostFromAcquisitionOfContractsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:ContentActivationMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:OtherIntangibleAssetsMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:NucleoSLicensesMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:Licenses3g4gMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:InternallyGeneratedSoftwareMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:IncrementalCostFromAcquisitionOfContractsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:ContentActivationMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:OtherIntangibleAssetsMember2022-01-012022-12-3100009324702022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:TopOfRangeMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMember2023-12-310000932470ifrs-full:TopOfRangeMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMember2022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:TopOfRangeMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:BottomOfRangeMember2021-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:PropertyPlantAndEquipmentWithoutMaterialsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:PowerEquipmentAndInstallationsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:MaterialsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:MachineryDiverseEquipmentAndToolsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:GoodsLentToCustomersAtNoCostMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:FixedNetworkAndTransportationMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:OtherPropertyPlantAndEquipmentMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:PropertyPlantAndEquipmentWithoutMaterialsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:PowerEquipmentAndInstallationsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:MachineryDiverseEquipmentAndToolsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:GoodsLentToCustomersAtNoCostMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:AccumulatedDepreciationAndAmortisationMemberteo:FixedNetworkAndTransportationMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberteo:BrandsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMemberifrs-full:CustomerrelatedIntangibleAssetsMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470ifrs-full:GrossCarryingAmountMember2022-01-012022-12-310000932470teo:OphMember2023-12-310000932470teo:OpalkerS.a.Member2023-12-310000932470teo:NyssaMember2023-12-310000932470teo:OpalkerS.a.Member2023-06-200000932470teo:Nys2Member2022-04-050000932470teo:IfrsCommonClassBMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:AmericanDepositarySharesMember2023-01-012023-12-310000932470teo:ClassOrdinarySharesMember2023-12-310000932470teo:ClassDOrdinarySharesMember2023-12-310000932470teo:ClassCOrdinarySharesMember2023-12-310000932470teo:ClassBOrdinarySharesMember2023-12-310000932470dei:BusinessContactMember2023-01-012023-12-3100009324702023-01-012023-12-31iso4217:USDxbrli:sharesiso4217:ARSiso4217:USDiso4217:ARSiso4217:CNYteo:actionteo:Votexbrli:sharesiso4217:ARSiso4217:USDxbrli:pureiso4217:ARSxbrli:sharesiso4217:PYGiso4217:CNYteo:installmentteo:item

As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 21, 2024

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 20-F

(Mark One)

REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR 12(g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

OR

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023

OR

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from                      to                     

OR

SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Date of event requiring this shell company report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

For the transition period from                       to

Commission file number: 1-13464

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

(Exact name of Registrant as Specified in its charter)

Republic of Argentina

(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

General Hornos 690

(C1272ACK) - Buenos Aires
Argentina

(Address of Principal Executive Offices)

Gabriel Blasi
(Tel: 54-11-4968-4019, E-mail: GBlasi@teco.com.ar,
General Hornos 690, (C1272ACK), Buenos Aires, Argentina)

(Name, Telephone, E-mail and/or Facsimile number and Address of Company Contact Person)

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of Each Class

    

Trading Symbol

    

Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered

American Depositary Shares,
each representing 5 Class B Shares

TEO

New York Stock Exchange

Class B Shares,
nominal value P$1.00 per share

TECO2

New York Stock Exchange*

*

Not for trading, but only in connection with the registration of American Depositary Shares, pursuant to the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

None

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act:

None

Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report.

Class A Shares, nominal value P$1.00 each

    

683,856,600 

Class B Shares, nominal value P$1.00 each

628,058,019 

Class C Shares, nominal value P$1.00 each

106,734 

Class D Shares, nominal value P$1.00 each

841,666,658 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

Yes No

If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

Yes No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports) and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

Yes No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

Yes No

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer

Accelerated filer

Non-accelerated filer

Emerging growth company

If an emerging growth company that prepares its financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards† provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.

The term “new or revised financial accounting standard” refers to any update issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board to its Accounting Standards Codification after April 5, 2012.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report.

If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements.

Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant’s executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to § 240.10D-1(b).

Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:

US GAAP

International Financial Reporting Standards as issued
by the International Accounting Standards Board

Other

If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow.

Item 17 Item 18

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yes No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed all documents and reports required to be filed by Sections 12, 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 subsequent to the distribution of securities under a plan confirmed by a court.

Yes No

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL INFORMATION

1

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

2

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

4

 

PART I

 

 

ITEM 1.

IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS

11

ITEM 2.

OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE

11

ITEM 3.

KEY INFORMATION

11

ITEM 4.

INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

40

ITEM 4A.

UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

67

ITEM 5.

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

68

ITEM 6.

DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

102

ITEM 7.

MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

117

ITEM 8.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

121

ITEM 9.

THE OFFER AND LISTING

122

ITEM 10.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

124

ITEM 11.

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

149

ITEM 12.

DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES

150

 

PART II

 

 

ITEM 13.

DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES

151

ITEM 14.

MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS

151

ITEM 15.

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

151

ITEM 16A.

AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT

152

ITEM 16B.

CODE OF ETHICS

152

ITEM 16C.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

152

ITEM 16D.

EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES

154

ITEM 16E.

PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE COMPANY AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS

154

ITEM 16F.

CHANGE IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT

154

ITEM 16G.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

154

ITEM 16H.

MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE

155

ITEM 16I.

DISCLOSURE REGARDING FOREIGN JURISDICTIONS THAT PREVENT INSPECTIONS

155

ITEM 16J.

INSIDER TRADING POLICIES

155

ITEM 16K.

CYBERSECURITY

155

 

PART III

 

 

ITEM 17.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

158

ITEM 18.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

158

ITEM 19.

EXHIBITS

159

PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Telecom Argentina S.A. is a company incorporated under the laws of Argentina. As used in this Annual Report on Form 20-F (the “Form 20-F” or “Annual Report”), the terms “the Company,” “Telecom,” “we,” “us,” and “our” refer to Telecom Argentina S.A. and its consolidated subsidiaries as of December 31, 2023. Unless otherwise stated, references to the financial results of “Telecom” are to the consolidated financial results of Telecom Argentina and its consolidated subsidiaries. Telecom is primarily engaged in the provision of fixed and mobile telecommunications services, data services, Internet services and cable television services.

The term “Telecom Argentina” refers to Telecom Argentina S.A., excluding its subsidiaries. The term “Cablevisión” refers to Cablevisión S.A., together with its consolidated subsidiaries. The term “Merger” refers to the merger between Telecom and Cablevisión, effective as of January 1, 2018, through which Cablevisión was merged with and into Telecom Argentina, with Telecom Argentina being the surviving entity. As of December 31, 2023, Telecom Argentina’s subsidiaries were Núcleo S.A.E. and its subsidiaries Personal Envíos S.A. and Tuves Paraguay S.A., PEM S.A.U., Cable Imagen S.R.L., Televisión Dirigida S.A., Adesol S.A., AVC Continente Audiovisual S.A., Inter Radios S.A.U., Telecom Argentina USA Inc., Micro Sistemas S.A.U., Personal Smarthome S.A. and its subsidiary NYS2 S.A.U., Opalker S.A. and its subsidiary Ubiquo Chile Spa, Negocios y Servicios S.A.U. and Micro Fintech Holding LLC. For further information on our subsidiaries, see Exhibit 8.1 to this Annual Report. The Company has no significant subsidiaries.

Our consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 and for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, and the notes thereto (the “Consolidated Financial Statements”) are set forth on pages F-1 through F-96 of this Annual Report.

Our Consolidated Financial Statements, which are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IFRS Accounting Standards”), have been approved by resolution of the Board of Directors’ meeting held on March 7, 2024 and have been audited by an independent registered public accounting firm.

Argentina has been considered a high-inflation economy for accounting purposes according to the IAS 29 “Financial reporting in hyperinflationary economies” since July 1, 2018. Therefore, the financial information included in this Annual Report for all the periods reported are presented on the basis of constant Argentine Pesos as of December 31, 2023 (“current currency”). See “Item 3—Key Information—Risk Factors—Inflation has accelerated and could accelerate further, causing adverse effects on the economy and negatively impacting Telecom’s margins and/or ratios”, “Item 5—Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Factors Affecting Results of Operations” and Note 1.d) to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Telecom Argentina and its subsidiaries maintain their accounting records and prepare their financial statements in Argentine Pesos, which is their functional currency, except for Televisión Dirigida S.A, Núcleo S.A.E. and its subsidiaries in Paraguay, which use Guaraníes as their functional currency, Telecom Argentina USA Inc., Opalker S.A. and its subsidiary, which use U.S. dollars as their functional currency and Adesol S.A. and its subsidiaries incorporated under the laws of Uruguay, which use Uruguayan Pesos as their functional currency. Our Consolidated Financial Statements include the results of these subsidiaries converted into Argentine Pesos.

Certain financial information contained in this Annual Report has been presented in U.S. dollars. This Annual Report contains translations of various Argentine Peso amounts into U.S. dollars at specified rates solely for convenience of the reader. You should not construe these translations as representations by us that the Argentine Peso amounts actually represent these U.S. dollar amounts or could be converted into U.S. dollars at the rates indicated. Except as otherwise specified, all references to “US$,” “U.S. dollars” or “dollars” are to United States dollars, references to “EUR,” “euro” or “€” are to the lawful currency of the member states of the European Union and references to “P$,” “Argentine Pesos,” “$” or “Pesos” are to Argentine Pesos. Unless otherwise indicated, we have translated the Argentine Peso amounts using a rate of P$808.45 = US$1.00, the U.S. dollar ask rate published by the Banco de la Nación Argentina (Argentine National Bank) on December 29, 2023. On March 15, 2024, the exchange rate was P$ 850.50= US$1.00. As a result of fluctuations in the Argentine Peso/U.S. dollar exchange rate, the exchange rate at such date may not be indicative of current or future exchange rates. Consequently, these translations should not be construed as a representation that the Peso amounts represent, or have been or could be converted into, U.S. dollars at that or any other rate. See “Item 3—Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Argentina— Devaluation of the Argentine Peso and foreign exchange restrictions may adversely affect our results of operations, our capital expenditures and our ability to service our liabilities and pay dividends”, and “Item 5— Operating and Financial Review and Prospects— Factors Affecting Results of Operations — Effects of Fluctuations in Exchange Rates between the Argentine Peso and the U.S. dollar and other major foreign currencies”.

Certain amounts and ratios contained in this Annual Report (including percentage amounts) have been rounded up or down to facilitate the summation of the tables in which they are presented. The effect of this rounding is not material. These rounded amounts and ratios are also included within the text of this Annual Report.

This Annual Report contains certain terms that may be unfamiliar to some readers. You can find a Glossary of these terms on page 4 of this Annual Report.

PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

1

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a “safe harbor” for forward-looking statements. Certain information included in this Annual Report contains information that is forward-looking, including, but not limited to:

our expectations for our future performance, revenues, income, earnings per share, capital expenditures, dividends, liquidity and capital structure;
the implementation of our business strategy;
the changing dynamics and growth in the telecommunications, cable and cybersecurity markets in Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, Chile and the United States;
our outlook for new and enhanced technologies;
the effects of operating in a competitive environment;
industry conditions;
the outcome of certain legal proceedings;
regulatory and legal developments; and
other factors identified or discussed under “Item 3—Key Information—Risk Factors”.

This Annual Report contains certain forward-looking statements and information relating to Telecom that are based on current views, expectations, estimates and projections of our Management and information currently available to Telecom. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements made in “Item 3—Key Information—Risk Factors,” “Item 5—Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” under the caption “Trend Information,” “Item 8—Financial Information—Legal Proceedings” and other statements about Telecom’s strategies, plans, objectives, expectations, intentions, capital expenditures, and assumptions and any other statement contained in this Annual Report that is not a historical fact. When used in this Annual Report, the terms “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “project,” “will,” “may” and “should” and other similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve certain risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. In addition, certain forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate.

Many factors could cause actual results, performance or achievements of Telecom to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements that may be expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. These factors include, among others:

our ability to successfully implement our business strategy and to achieve synergies;
our ability to introduce new products and services that enable business growth;
our ability to service our debt and fund our working capital requirements;
uncertainties relating to political and economic conditions in Argentina, Paraguay, United States, Uruguay and Chile, including the policies of the new government in Argentina;
the impact of political and economic developments on demand for securities of Argentine companies;
inflation and the devaluation of the Argentine Peso, the Guaraní, the Chilean Peso and the Uruguayan Peso and exchange rate risks in Argentina, Paraguay, Chile and Uruguay;

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

2

restrictions on the ability to exchange Argentine Pesos, Guaraníes, Chilean Pesos or Uruguayan Pesos into foreign currencies and transfer funds abroad;
changes in interest rates;
the impact of additional currency and exchange measures or restrictions on our ability to access the international capital markets and our ability to repay our dollar-denominated indebtedness;
our ability to introduce new products and services that enable business growth;
the creditworthiness of our actual or potential customers;
nationalization, expropriation and/or increased government intervention in companies;
technological changes;
the impact of legal or regulatory matters, changes in the interpretation of current or future regulations or reform and changes in the legal or regulatory environment in which we operate, including regulatory developments such as sanctions regimes in other jurisdictions (e.g., the United States) which impact our suppliers;
the effects of increased competition;
reliance on content produced by third parties;
increasing cost of our supplies;
inability to finance on reasonable terms capital expenditures required to remain competitive;
fluctuations, whether seasonal or in response to adverse macro-economic developments, in the demand for advertising;
our capacity to compete and develop our business in the future;
the impact of increased national or international restrictions on the transfer or use of telecommunications technology;
the impact of political developments on demand for securities of Argentine companies; and
the outbreak of military hostilities, including an escalation of Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the armed conflict between Israel and Hamas, and the potential destabilizing effect of such conflicts.

Many of these factors are macroeconomic and regulatory in nature and therefore beyond the control of the Company’s management. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as anticipated, believed, estimated, expected, intended, planned or projected. The Company does not intend and does not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking statements contained in this Annual Report.

These forward-looking statements are based upon a number of assumptions and other important factors that could cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from our future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Readers are encouraged to consult the Company’s filings made on Form 6-K, which are periodically filed with or furnished to the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

3

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

The following explanations are not provided as or intended to be technical definitions, but only to assist the general reader to understand certain terms used in this Annual Report.

2G (second-generation mobile system): Second-generation protocols using digital encoding and includes GSM, D-AMPS (TDMA) and CDMA. These protocols support high bit rate voice and limited data communications.

3G (third-generation mobile system): Third-generation mobile service, designed to provide high speed data, always-on data access, and greater voice capacity. 3G networks allow the transfer of both voice data services (telephony, messaging) and non-voice data (such as downloading Internet information, exchanging email, and instant messaging). The high data speeds, measured in Mbps, are significantly higher than 2G, and 3G networks technology enable full motion video, high-speed Internet access and videoconferencing. 3G technology standards include UMTS, based on WCDMA technology (quite often the two terms are used interchangeably), and CDMA2000.

4G (fourth-generation mobile system): Fourth-generation mobile service using the LTE technology (Long Term Evolution technology).

5G (fifth-generation mobile system): The next major phase of mobile telecommunications standards. 5G is a complete redesign of network architecture with the flexibility and agility to support upcoming service opportunities. It delivers higher speeds, higher capacity, extremely low latency and greater reliability.

Access (or Accesses): Connection provided by Telecom Argentina to Internet services.

ADS: American Depositary Shares issued by JP Morgan, listed on the New York Stock Exchange, each representing rights to five (5) Class B Shares under a Deposit Agreement.

ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line): A type of digital subscriber line technology (DSL); a data communications technology that enables faster data transmission over copper lines than a conventional voiceband modem can provide.

AFIP (Administración Federal de Ingresos Públicos): The Argentine federal tax authority.

AFJP (Administradoras de Fondos de Jubilaciones y Pensiones): Private entities that were in charge of managing the funds of the Private Pension and Retirement System established by Law No. 24,241, until its nationalization in November 2008 pursuant to Law No. 26,425.

AMBA (Area Metropolitana Buenos Aires): An area comprising the Autonomous city of Buenos Aires and the greater Buenos Aires area, which constitutes the most densely populated region of Argentina. Telephone calls within the area are considered local.

Analog: A mode of transmission or switching that is not digital, e.g., the representation of voice, video or other not in digital form.

ANSES: The Argentine administrator of social security pension and retirement benefits.

ANSES —FGS: The Fondo de Garantía y Sustentabilidad del Sistema Integrado Previsional Argentino managed by ANSES.

Argentina: The Republic of Argentina

ARPU (Average Revenue per User): The average monthly revenue per user of our mobile and fixed telephony, Internet and cable television services, calculated by dividing total revenue (including revenue earned from cable and Internet subscription fees, mobile telephony subscription fees, cable premium services, pay-per-view fees and additional outlets but excluding mainly equipment, out collect (wholesale) roaming, cell site rental and activation fee revenue) by weighted-average number of customers of each service during the relevant measurement period.

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

4

Auction: The auction for the assignment of frequency bands for the provision of Reliable and Intelligent Telecommunication Services called by the Secretariat of Communications through Resolution 2023-1285-APN-ENACOM#JGM.

Auction Terms and Conditions: Terms and Conditions approved by SC Resolution No. 38/14 for the awarding of frequency bands.

AWS: Self-service portal, jointly implementing the FinOps practice for better management of resources.

B2B (business-to- business): refers to the services or products provided to other businesses/companies.

B2C (business-to-consumer): refers to the services or products provided directly to customers who are the end-users.

Backbone: Main connection network (mainly by fiber optics) that connect local areas.

Basic Telephone Services: The supply of fixed telecommunications links that form part of the public telephone network, or are connected to such network, and the provision of local and long-distance telephone service (domestic and international).

BCBA (Bolsa de Comercio de Buenos Aires): The Buenos Aires Stock Exchange is a qualified entity according to Section 32 of Law No. 26,831, which acts by delegation of BYMA (Bolsas y Mercados Argentinos).

BCRA (Banco Central de la República Argentina): The Central Bank of Argentina.

Broadband: Services characterized by a transmission speed of two Mbps or more. These services include interactive services such as video telephone/video conferencing (both point-to-point and multipoint); video monitoring; interconnection of local networks; file transfer; high-speed fax; e-mail for moving images or mixed documents; Broadband videotext; video on demand and retrieval of sound programs or fixed and moving images.

BYMA (Bolsas y Mercados Argentinos S.A.): The Buenos Aires stock exchange.

Cablevisión: Cablevisión S.A., together with its consolidated subsidiaries, dissolved without liquidation as a result of the Merger.

Carrier: Company that makes available the physical telecommunication network.

Caja de Valores S.A: Argentine depository that custodies both public and private trading securities.

CDMA (Code Division Multiple Accesses): A digital wireless technology used in radio communication for transmission between a mobile handset and a radio base station. It enables the simultaneous transmission and reception of several messages, each of which has a coded identity to distinguish it from the other messages.

Cell: Geographical portion of the territory covered by a base transceiver station.

Cellular: A technique used in mobile radio technology to use the same spectrum of frequencies in one network multiple times. Low power radio transmitters are used to cover a Cell so that the frequencies in use can be reused without interference for other parts of the network.

Channel: The portion of a communications system that connects a source to one or more destinations. Also called circuit, line, link or path.

Churn: The termination of a mobile telephony, cable television or Internet services customer’s account. The churn rate is determined by calculating the total number of disconnected customers of each of our mobile telephony, cable television and Internet services over a given period as a percentage of the initial number of customers for such services as of the beginning of the applicable measurement period.

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

5

CNV (Comisión Nacional de Valores): The Argentine National Securities Commission.

CONATEL: National Communications Commission of Paraguay.

COSO: Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

CPI: Consumer Price Index.

Customer / Subscriber / Access: A customer of any of the services we provide. A single subscriber may contract for multiple services, and we believe that it is more useful to count the number of accesses a subscriber has contracted for, than to merely count the number of our subscribers. For example, a subscriber that has fixed line telephony service and Broadband service is counted as two subscribers rather than as one subscriber.

CVH: Cablevisión Holding S.A.

D-AMPS (Digital-Advanced Mobile Phone Service): A digital version of AMPS (Advanced Mobile Phone Service), the original Analog standard for mobile telephone service in the United States.

DFI: Derivative financial instrument.

Digital: A mode of representing a physical variable such as speech using digits 0 and 1 only. The digits are transmitted in binary form as a series of pulses (units on which the rate structure of the regulated fixed line services are based). Digital networks are rapidly replacing the older Analog ones. Digital networks allow for higher capacity and higher flexibility through the use of computer-related technology for the transmission and manipulation of telephone calls. Digital systems offer lower noise interference and can incorporate encryption as a protection from external interference.

DWDM (Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing): Technology for multiplying and transmitting different wavelengths along a single optical fiber contemporaneously.

ENACOM (Ente Nacional de Comunicaciones) or the Regulatory Authority: Argentine Communications Body within the scope of the Jefatura de Gabinete, acting as regulatory authority as of the date of this Annual Report.

ENTel (Empresa Nacional de Telecomunicaciones): National Telecommunications Company which operated the telecommunications system in Argentina prior to the Transfer Date.

Fiber Optic: Thin glass, silica or plastic wires, building the infrastructure base for data transmission. A Fiber Optic cable contains several individual fibers, and each of them is capable of driving a signal (light impulse) at unlimited bandwidth. Fiber Optics are usually employed for long-distance communication: it can transfer “heavy” data loads, and the signal reaches the recipient, protected from possible disturbances along the way. The driving capacity of Fiber Optics is higher than the traditional copper cable ones.

Fintech: Fintech Telecom LLC.

Fintech Services: Financial technology services.

Finnvera loan: That certain export credit lines for a total amount of US$96 million and US$ 30 million, dated May 2019 and May 2021, respectively, by and among (i) Banco Santander, S.A. and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., London Branch, as initial lenders, lead coordinators and guarantors of residual risk, (ii) JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., London Branch, as a financing agent, (iii) Banco Santander, S.A. as a bank of documentation and (iv) Banco Santander Río S.A. as a local custody agent, which is guaranteed by Finnvera plc, the official export credit agency of Finland, which granted a bond in favor of the lenders subject to certain terms and conditions.

Fixed Assets: Includes PP&E, Intangible assets, Goodwill and Rights of use assets.

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

6

FTTC (Fiber to the Curb or Fiber to the Cabinet): In the case of FTTC the fiber connection reaches the equipment (distribution cabinet) located on the pavement, from where copper connections are run to the customer.

FTTH (Fiber to the Home): In the case of FTTH the fiber connection terminates inside the customer premises.

FX Market: Foreign exchange market.

GCL: General Corporations Law.

GDP: Gross Domestic Product.

GPON: Gigabit-capable Passive Optical Network. A flexible optical fiber access network capable of supporting the bandwidth requirements of business and residential services. GPON systems are characterized, in general, by an optical line termination (“OLT”) system and an optical network unit (“ONU”) or optical network termination (“ONT”) with a passive optical distribution network interconnecting them. There is, in general, a one-to-many relationship between the OLT and the ONU/ONTs, respectively.

GPRS (General Packet Radio Service): An enhanced second-generation mobile technology used to transmit data over mobile networks. GPRS transmits and receives packets of data in bursts instead of using continuous open radio channels, and it is used to add faster data transmission speed to GSM networks. GPRS is packet-based rather than circuit-based technology.

GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications): A standard for digital mobile technology used worldwide, which works on 900 MHz and 1,800 MHz band.

HFC (Hybrid Fiber-Coaxial): Network that incorporates both optical fiber and coaxial cable to create a Broadband network.

IASB: International Accounting Standards Board.

ICT (Information and Communication Technology): Broad area concerned with information technology, telecommunications networking and services and other aspects of managing and processing information, especially in large organizations.

ICT services (Information and Communication Technology services): Services to transport and distribute signals or data, such as voice, text, video and images, provided or requested by third-party users, through telecommunications networks.

IFC: International Finance Corporation.

IFRS Accounting Standards: International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.

IGJ (Inspección General de Justicia): General Board of Corporations.

IMF: International Monetary Fund.

INDEC (Instituto Nacional de Estadísticas y Censos): The Argentine National Statistics and Censuses Institute.

Industry 4.0: Neologism describing advancement of technological advancement focused on producing solutions focused on interconnectivity, automation, real-time data based on artificial intelligence, data analytics and IoT, through the adoption of 4.0 technologies.

IoT: Internet of Things.

IP (Internet Protocol): A set of communications protocols for exchanging data over the Internet.

ISP: Internet Service Providers.

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

7

IT: Information Technology.

LAD (Ley Argentina Digital): Law No. 27,078, Argentina’s Digital Law.

Law No. 26,831 (Ley de Mercado de Capitales): Argentine Capital Markets Law.

List of Conditions: The Privatization Regulations, including the Pliego de Bases y Condiciones, was approved by Decree No. 62/90, as amended. Pursuant to the List of Conditions, Telecom Argentina was required to comply with rate regulations and meet certain minimum annual standards regarding the expansion of its telephone system and improvements in the quality of its service to maintain and extend the exclusivity of its non-expiring license to provide fixed-line public telecommunications services and Basic Telephone Services in the Northern Region of Argentina. After the market was opened to competition, the outstanding obligations that are in force were the rate regulations and those related to the quality of service; the obligations related to the expansion of the network are no longer in force.

M2M: Machine to Machine, information exchange between two remote machines.

MBOU: Mb per user per month.

Merger: Merger between Telecom Argentina and Cablevisión, effective as of January 1, 2018.

Micro Sistemas/ Pem/ Cable Imagen/ AVC Continente Audiovisual/ Inter Radios/ Personal Smarthome/ NYS2/ NYSSA: Names corresponding to limited companies or limited responsibility companies that are directly or indirectly controlled according to the definition of the General Corporations Law, or were controlled by the Company, directly or indirectly: Micro Sistemas S.A.U., Pem S.A.U., Cable Imagen S.R.L., AVC Continente Audiovisual S.A., Inter Radios S.A.U., Personal Smarthome S.A., NYS2 S.A.U., Negocios y Servicios S.A.U.

Micro Fintech Holding: On October 11, 2023, Telecom Argentina established the company Micro Fintech Holding LLC in the State of Delaware, USA. Telecom Argentina is the owner of 100% of the membership interests in Micro Fintech Holding LLC.

MMS (Mobile Multimedia Services): Represent an evolution of the SMS and the Enhanced Messaging Service (“EMS”) using various mono-medial elements (text, design, photos, video-clips and audio), which are synchronized and combined allowing them to be packed together and sent to GSM-GPRS platforms.

Mobile service: A mobile telephone service provided by means of a network of interconnected low-powered base stations, each of which covers one small geographic cell within the total cellular system service area.

Modem: Modulator/Demodulator. A device that modulates digital data to allow their transmission on Analog channels, generally consisting of telephone lines.

Multimedia: A service involving two or more communications media (e.g., voice, video, text, etc.) and hybrid products created through their interaction.

Network: An interconnected collection of elements. In a telephone network, these consist of switches connected to each other and to customer equipment. The transmission equipment may be based on fiber optic or metallic cable or point-to-point radio connectors.

Nortel: Nortel Inversora S.A., the direct parent company of Telecom Argentina S.A. until November 30, 2017, when it was absorbed by Telecom Argentina pursuant to the Reorganization.

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

8

Northern Region: The Argentine government’s privatization program as set forth in the State Reform Law approved in August 1989 and subsequent decrees, the “Privatization Regulations” provided for the division of the Argentine telecommunications network operated by ENTel into two regions, the northern region (the “Northern Region”) and the southern region (the “Southern Region”) of Argentina. Additionally, these two regions are set forth in Decree No. 1,461/93, which ratified the Resolution No. 575/93 which approved the list of conditions for the public offer for the provision of mobile telecommunication services.

NPS: Net Promoter Score.

OTT (Over the Top): Over the Top applications or services are those services that bypass traditional network distribution approaches and run over, or on top of, internet networks. OTT refers, in general, to content from a third party that is delivered to an end-user over the internet that is not provided directly by end-user Internet Service Provider.

OPH: Name corresponding to company Open Pass Holding LLC that is a joint venture of Telecom.

Packs: Packages integrated by SMS and minutes that can be purchased or added to those plans that recharge credit.

PBU (Prestación Básica Universal Obligatoria): Compulsory universal telecommunication service established by Decree No. 690/20 and regulated by ENACOM Resolution No. 1,467/20.

PCS (Personal Communications Service): A mobile communications service with systems that operate in a manner similar to cellular systems.

PEN (Poder Ejecutivo Nacional): The executive branch of the Argentine government.

Personal: Telecom Personal S.A. Until November 30, 2017, Telecom Argentina owned 100% of Personal. Commencing December 1, 2017, pursuant to the Reorganization, mobile services provided by Personal have been provided by Telecom Argentina.

Platform: The total input, including hardware, software, operating equipment and procedures, for producing (production platform) or managing (Management platform) a particular service (service platform).

PP&E: Property, plant and equipment.

Privatization Regulations: The Argentine government’s privatization program as set forth in the State Reform Law approved in August 1989 and subsequent decrees.

Quadruple play: Means the integration of fixed and mobile telecommunication services as well as pay television and Internet services.

RECPAM (Resultado por exposición a los cambios en el poder adquisitivo de la moneda): Inflation Adjustment Gain (Loss).

Reorganization: Corporate reorganization pursuant to which Telecom Argentina absorbed Sofora, Nortel and Telecom Personal.

Roaming: A function that enables mobile subscribers to use the service on networks of operators other than the one with which they signed their initial contract. The roaming service is active when a mobile device is used in a foreign country (included in the GSM network).

Satellite: Satellites are used, among other things, for links with countries that cannot be reached by cable to provide an alternative to cable and to form closed user networks.

SBA: Stand-By Arrangement between Argentina and the IMF, approved by the IMF’s Executive Board on June 20, 2018.

SC (Secretaría de Comunicaciones): The Argentine Secretary of Communications, which was replaced by ENACOM.

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

9

SCI (Secretaría de Comercio Interior): The Argentine Secretary of Internal Commerce, which was replaced by the Secretary of Commerce, depending on the Ministry of Economy of the Nation.

SEC: The Securities and Exchange Commission of the United States of America.

Service Provider: The party that provides end users and content providers with a range of services, including a proprietary, exclusive or third-party service center.

SMS (Short Message Service): Short text messages that can be received and sent through GSM-network connected mobile phones. The maximum text length is 160 alpha-numerical characters.

Sofora: Sofora Telecomunicaciones S.A., the indirect parent company of Telecom Argentina S.A. through its participation in Nortel until November 30, 2017, when it was absorbed by Telecom Argentina pursuant to the Reorganization.

Southern Region: See “Northern Region”.

STM (Servicio Telefónico Móvil): Mobile Telephone Service.

TDMA (Time Division Multiple Accesses): A technology for digital transmission of radio signals between, for example, a mobile handset and a radio base station. TDMA breaks signals into sequential pieces of defined length, places each piece into an information conduit at specific intervals and then reconstructs the pieces at the end of the conduit.

Telecom Argentina USA/ Núcleo/ Personal Envíos/ Tuves/ Televisión Dirigida/ Adesol/ Opalker/Ubiquo/ Micro Fintech Holding: Names corresponding to foreign companies Telecom Argentina USA Inc., Núcleo S.A.E., Personal Envíos S.A., Tuves Paraguay S.A., Televisión Dirigida S.A., Adesol S.A., Opalker S.A., Ubiquo Chile Spa and Micro Fintech Holding LLC, respectively, companies that are directly or indirectly controlled according to the definition of the General Corporations Law.

Telefónica: Telefónica de Argentina S.A.

Telintar: Telecomunicaciones Internacionales de Argentina Telintar S.A.

Terms and Conditions: See “Auction Terms and Conditions”.

TLRD (Terminación Llamada Red Destino): Termination charges from third parties’ mobile networks.

Transfer Date: November 8, 1990, the date on which Telecom Argentina commenced operations upon the transfer from the Argentine government of the telecommunications system in the Northern Region of Argentina that was previously owned and operated by ENTel.

UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System): Third-generation mobile communication standard.

Universal Service: The availability of Basic Telephone Service, or access to the public telephone network via different alternatives, at an affordable price to all persons within a country or specified area.

URSEC (Unidad Reguladora de Servicios de Comunicaciones): Uruguayan Regulatory Authority.

UVA (Unidad de Valor Adquistivo): Purchasing Value Unit, an index developed and published by the BCRA.

Value Added Services: Services that provide a higher level of functionality than the basic transmission services offered by a telecommunications network such as video streaming, “Personal Video,” “Nube Personal” (Cloud services), M2M (Machine to Machine communication), social networks, “Personal Messenger,” content and entertainment (SMS subscriptions and content, games, music, etc.), MMS and voice mail.

VLG Argentina: VLG S.A.U., an Argentine corporation that was a shareholder of Telecom Argentina and controlled by CVH. (formerly known as VLG Argentina, LLC). During 2023 was merged and absorbed by CVH.

WCDMA (Wideband Code-Division Multiple Access): An air interface technology used in 3G (Third-generation) mobile telecommunications networks.

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

10

PART I

ITEM 1.    IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS

Not applicable.

ITEM 2.    OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE

Not applicable.

ITEM 3.    KEY INFORMATION

Capitalization and Indebtedness

Not applicable.

Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds

Not applicable.

Risk Factors

This section is intended to be a summary of more detailed discussions contained elsewhere in this Annual Report. The risks described below are not the only ones that we face. Additional risks that we do not presently consider material, or of which we are not currently aware, may also affect us. Our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows could be materially and adversely affected if any of these risks materialize and, as a result, the market price of our Shares and our ADSs could decline. You should carefully consider these risks with respect to an investment in Telecom Argentina. This section is divided in two sub-sections: the “Risk Factors Summary”, which provides a brief summary of our Risk Factors and “Detailed Risk Factors”, providing detailed information in relation to each Risk Factor identified.

Risk Factors Summary

The following summarizes the main risks to which we are subject. You should carefully consider all of the information discussed below in “Item 3. Key Information—Detailed Risk Factors” in this Annual Report for a comprehensive description of these and other risks.

Risks Relating to Argentina

Devaluation of the Argentine Peso and foreign exchange restrictions may adversely affect our results of operations, our capital expenditures and our ability to service our liabilities and pay dividends.
Economic and political developments in Argentina, and future policies of the Argentine government may affect the economy as well as the operations of the telecommunications industry, including Telecom Argentina.
Inflation has accelerated and could accelerate further, causing adverse effects on the economy and negatively impacting Telecom's margins and/or ratios.
The Argentine government may exercise greater intervention in private sector companies, including Telecom Argentina.
Although Argentina’s economy grew during 2022 and 2021, it experienced contractions during 2023 and in the past and may contract in the future due to international and domestic conditions which may adversely affect our operations.
Argentina’s ability to obtain financing from international markets is limited, which could affect its capacity to implement reforms and sustain economic growth.
The Argentine banking system may be subject to instability which may affect our operations.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

11

We are subject to Argentine and international anti-corruption, anti-bribery and anti-money laundering laws and may be subject to compliance with economic and trade sanctions programs. Our failure to comply with these laws and programs could result in penalties, which could harm our reputation and have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Public health crises and measures that might be implemented by the Argentine government in response to them could have an adverse effect on our business operations.

Risks Relating to Telecom and its operations

We may become subject to burdensome regulations, ordinances and laws affecting the services we offer which could adversely affect our operations.
We face substantial and increasing competition in the Argentine fixed and mobile telephony, cable television and Internet businesses.
Our revenues may vary depending upon the condition of the Argentine economy.
The regulation of prices may adversely affect Telecom Argentina’s revenues.
Technological advances and replacement of our equipment may require us to make significant expenditures to maintain and improve the competitiveness of the services we offer.
The intellectual property used by us, our suppliers or service providers may infringe on intellectual property rights owned by others.
The media industry is a dynamic and evolving industry, and if it does not develop and expand as we currently expect, our results and operations relating to our cable television and Internet businesses may suffer.
We may not be able to renew programming contracts on favorable terms.
We may not be able to renew some leases of the facilities for the installation of our fixed and mobile telephony, cable television and Internet systems.
Our revenues may be adversely affected by an increase in churn rates, with respect to mobile telephony, cable television and Internet services, or reductions in fixed telephony lines in service, with respect to fixed telephony services.
Actual or perceived health risks or other problems relating to mobile handsets or transmission masts could lead to litigation or decreased mobile communications usage.
Our operations and financial condition could be affected by future union negotiations, Argentine labor regulations and governmental measures requiring private companies to increase salaries or otherwise provide workers with additional benefits.
We are or may be involved in legal and regulatory proceedings that could result in unfavorable decisions and financial penalties for us.
The enforcement of the Law for the Promotion of Registered Labor and Prevention of Labor Fraud may have a material adverse effect on us.
A cyberattack, could adversely affect our business, balance sheet, results of operations and cash flow.
Environmental risks, climate change, and climate change legislation or regulations restricting emissions of greenhouse gases (“GHGs”) and legal frameworks promoting an increase in the participation of energies from renewable sources could significantly impact our business and result in increased operating costs.
We and/or our administrators are subject to environmental and safety regulations whose non-compliance could result in increased costs and/or penalties for our administrators.
Operational risks could adversely affect our reputation and our profitability.
Any failure by a strategic supplier to comply with its legal and contractual obligations could adversely affect our operations and any action or restriction by a foreign government against a strategic supplier could adversely affect our reputation.
Restrictive covenants in Telecom’s outstanding indebtedness may restrict its ability to pursue its business strategies.
We may be adversely affected by fluctuations in interest rates.
We may be unable to refinance our outstanding indebtedness, or the refinancing terms may be materially less favorable than their current terms, which would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

12

Risks Relating to Telecom Argentina’s Shares and ADSs

The New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) and/or the Buenos Aires Stock Exchange (by delegated authority of BYMA) may suspend trading and/or delist Telecom’s ADSs and Class B Shares, respectively, upon occurrence of certain events relating to Telecom’s financial situation.
Under Argentine corporate law, shareholder rights may be fewer or less well defined than in other jurisdictions.
Changes in Argentine tax laws may adversely affect the tax treatment of our Shares and/or the ADSs.
Our shareholders may be subject to liability under Argentine law for certain votes of their securities.
The price of our Class B Shares and the ADSs may fluctuate substantially, and your investment may decline in value.
Restrictions on transfers of foreign exchange and the repatriation of capital from Argentina may impair your ability to receive dividends and distributions on, and the proceeds of any sale of the Class B Shares underlying the ADSs.
Trading of Telecom Argentina’s Class B Shares in the Argentine securities markets is limited and could experience further illiquidity and price volatility.
Holders of ADSs may be adversely affected by currency devaluations and foreign exchange fluctuations.
The relative volatility and illiquidity of the Argentine securities markets may substantially limit your ability to sell the Class B Shares underlying the ADSs on the BYMA at the price and time desired by the shareholder.
We are traded on more than one market and this may result in price variations; in addition, investors may not be able to easily move shares for trading between such markets.
As a foreign private issuer, we will not be subject to U.S. proxy rules and will be exempt from filing certain reports under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
If we do not file or maintain a registration statement and no exemption from the Securities Act of 1933 (“Securities Act”) registration is available, U.S. holders of ADSs may be unable to exercise preemptive rights granted to our holders of Class B Shares underlying ADSs.
Our status as a foreign private issuer allows us to follow alternate standards to the corporate governance standards of the NYSE, which may limit the protections afforded to investors.
We are organized under the laws of Argentina and holders of the ADSs may find it difficult to enforce civil liability claims against us, our directors, officers and certain experts.
CVH, and through CVH, GC Dominio S.A. (“GC Dominio”), have the ability to determine the outcome of any shareholder decision relating to significant matters affecting us.
Detailed Risk Factors

Risks Relating to Argentina

Overview

A substantial majority of our property, operations and customers are located in Argentina, and a portion of our assets and liabilities are denominated in foreign currencies. Accordingly, our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows depend to a significant extent on economic and political conditions prevailing in Argentina and on the exchange rates between the Argentine Peso and foreign currencies. In the recent past, Argentina has experienced severe recessions, political crises, periods of high inflation and significant currency devaluation. The Argentine economy has been volatile since 2011, with years of economic growth and others with recession. Several factors have impacted negatively the Argentine economy in the recent past, and may continue to impact it in the future, including among others, inflation rates, exchange rates, commodity prices, level of BCRA reserves, public debt, tax pressures, trade and fiscal balances, government policy, the international context, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the military conflict between Russia and Ukraine and between Israel and Hamas. See “Item 3—Key Information—Risk Factors—Although Argentina’s economy grew during 2022 and 2021, it experienced contractions during 2023 and in the past and may contract in the future due to international and domestic conditions which may adversely affect our operations”.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

13

Devaluation of the Argentine Peso and foreign exchange restrictions may adversely affect our results of operations, our capital expenditures and our ability to service our liabilities and pay dividends.

Since we generate a substantial portion of our revenues in Argentine Pesos (functional currency of Telecom), any devaluation may negatively affect the U.S. dollar value of our earnings while increasing, in Peso terms, our expenses and capital expenditures denominated in foreign currency. The Argentine Peso has been subject to significant devaluation against the U.S. dollar in the past and may be subject to fluctuations in the future. The value of the Peso compared to other foreign currencies is dependent, among other factors, on the level of international reserves maintained by the BCRA, which have also shown significant fluctuations in recent years. The Argentine macroeconomic environment, in which we operate, has been affected by the continued devaluation of the Peso, which in turn has and could continue to have a direct impact on our financial and economic position.

The value of the Peso has fluctuated significantly since 2011. In 2023, the Argentine Peso continued to depreciate against the U.S. dollar and other major foreign currencies. According to Banco de la Nación Argentina, the Peso/dollar exchange rate stood at P$808.45 per US$1.00 as of December 29, 2023, evidencing an appreciation of the U.S. Dollar against the Argentine Peso of approximately 356.3% from its value of P$177.16 per dollar at December 30, 2022 (compared to 72.5% and 22.1% in the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively). If we analyze the behavior of the average exchange rate, during 2023 it stood at P$295.29 per dollar. This is because the exchange rate remained relatively stable until the assumption of the new administration in December 2023, when the U.S. Dollar appreciated 118% against the Argentine Peso, bringing the exchange rate to P$800 per dollar on December 13, 2023.The BCRA subsequently announced the transition to a new macroeconomic stability regime establishing a 2% monthly sliding path of the official exchange rate. Additionally, the “Relevamiento de Expectativas de Mercado” (“REM”), published by the BCRA on February 6, 2024, estimated an inflation of 227 % for the year 2024. Monthly inflation for the months of January and February 2024 was 20.6% and 13.2% respectively, while the accumulated figure for the first two months of the year reached 36.6%. In turn, Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (“OECD”), stated that inflation in 2024 is estimated to be 250.6%.

As a result of the Argentine Peso’s increased volatility, the Argentine government and the BCRA implemented several measures to stabilize its value, including, among others, stronger exchange regulations, an increase in short term interest rates and the sale of foreign currency reserves made by the BCRA. The continued devaluation of the Argentine Peso during the past years has had and continues to have a negative impact on the payment of foreign currency denominated debts by local private sector debtors to unrelated foreign entities, and has also led to an increase in inflation, which in turn has a direct impact on real wages. The devaluation has also negatively impacted businesses whose success is dependent on domestic market demand, and adversely affected the Argentine government’s ability to honor its foreign debt commitments.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

14

Higher restrictions to access the official FX Markets were imposed starting 2020, with a view to reducing the loss of international reserves generated by a greater demand of U.S. dollars by individuals and companies. These restrictions have resulted in the creation of multiple reference exchange rates, such as the “blue chip swap” rate (contado con liquidación), MEP dollar (Mercado Electrónico de Pagos), and soybean dollar (dólar soja), among others. Some of these exchange rates are only available to certain markets participants, or in the activities in which the currency is held. In addition, dealing with certain of these reference rates might directly affect the access of the Company to the Argentine Single and Free Exchange Market (“MULC” for its Spanish acronym). The requirements to access these different exchange rates, as well as the actual exchange rate of each option, vary significantly from one another. Pursuant to Communication “A” 7106 (as amended and supplemented from time to time), the BCRA established certain requirements to access the local exchange market for purposes of repayment of cross-border financial debts, in particular, for the payment of principal outstanding amounts in loans and securities having amortization payments scheduled between October 15, 2020 and December 31, 2021 for principal amounts exceeding US$2,000,000 by the non-financial private sector and financial entities. Particularly, the payment of principal amounts pertaining to loans and securities subject to the regulation should be part of a refinancing plan that must be previously filed with the BCRA, which must provide that (i) only 40% of the principal amount owed and payable shall be paid through the local foreign exchange market on or prior to March 31, 2021; and (ii) the remaining 60% must be refinanced so the average life of the debt is increased for a minimum of two years. Pursuant to Communication “A” 7621, the BCRA requirements set forth by Communication “A” 7106 are also applicable to amortization payments of principal outstanding amounts in loans and securities scheduled until December 31, 2023. As of the date of this Annual Report, this regime has not been renewed. It is not possible to guarantee that the period covered by Communication “A” 7621 will not be reinstated in the future by the BCRA or that other regulations with similar effects will be issued that would require the Company to refinance its obligations, which in turn could have a negative impact on the Company, and in particular, in the Company’s ability to meet its debt obligations. See “—Restrictions on transfers of foreign exchange and the repatriation of capital from Argentina may impair your ability to receive dividends and distributions on, and the proceeds of any sale of the Class B Shares underlying the ADSs and “Item 10—Foreign Investment and Exchange Controls in Argentina—External financial indebtedness”.

In October 2022, the former administration issued the General Resolution No. 5271/2022 creating the Argentine System of Imports (SIRA) and the Argentine System of Imports and Foreign Payments of Services (SIRASE), an import licensing and approval system created to preserve hard currency reserves within the BCRA. All products and services were under the scope of the SIRA regime, which required Argentine importers to submit a SIRA or SIRASE request for all imports before shipping products or contracting services from abroad. The implementation of this system ultimately generated major import approval delays and barriers to foreign exchange availability for Argentine companies during 2023 and, because of the inability for companies to access the MULC, this was the only time in recent years when  many Argentine companies had to extend or renegotiate their commercial debts with foreign suppliers.

Due to this situation, we have been unable to access the MULC to cancel most of our obligations in foreign currency for imports of goods and services which are crucial for our operations, while additionally generating the accumulation of commercial debt. This additional commercial debt, in the case it is past-due, is being treated as financial debt when considering the calculation of the financial ratios of the Company, in accordance with the definitions incorporated in some of our debt contracts.

Milei’s administration has announced that it plans to implement policies aimed at modifying Argentina's macroeconomic conditions, such as reducing the fiscal deficit, reforming the National State, privatizing public companies and rationalizing the current spending of the national administration. These measures and any future measures may generate volatility in economic and financial conditions. To address the issue of increasing commercial debts, under the Milei administration, the BCRA has been offering U.S. dollar-denominated securities (BOPREAL, standing for Bond for the Reconstruction of a Free Argentina in Spanish), which can only be subscribed by importers with overdue debts for goods with customs registration and/or services actually rendered until December 12, 2023. As an alternative, BOPREALs may be used for an easier access to foreign currency, whether through the collection of interest or principal upon maturity, or through the sale of the bonds in the secondary market in exchange for dollars paid abroad. Importers of goods and services may not repay debts incurred prior to December 12, 2023 by any other means, with the exception of dollars held abroad, without jeopardizing access to the official exchange market. Pursuant to current BCRA rules, importers will not be entitled to access the MULC for 90 days if they have conducted exchange transactions involving the sale/purchase of securities (other than BOPREALs) settled in dollars abroad.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

15

Given the options currently provided by the BCRA, we are managing the stock of commercial debt that was accumulated due to the aforementioned restrictions. We participated in the auctions of BOPREAL 1 and 2 Series during January and February 2024, As of the date these bonds were received, they are measured at fair value and included as current investments. The bonds would allow us to agree on a settlement of the existing commercial debt with our main vendors, which we are negotiating with each counterparty on a one-by-one basis.

Any further depreciation of the Argentine Peso or our inability to acquire foreign currency could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. We cannot predict whether and to what extent the value of the Peso could depreciate against the U.S. dollar and the way in which any such fluctuations could affect our business. Furthermore, no assurance can be given that, in the future, no additional currency or foreign exchange restrictions or controls will be imposed. Existing and future measures may negatively affect Argentina’s international competitiveness, discouraging foreign investments and lending by foreign investors or increasing foreign capital outflow which could have an adverse effect on economic activity in Argentina, and which in turn could adversely affect our business and results of operations. We cannot predict how these conditions will affect the consumption of services provided by Telecom or our ability to meet our liabilities denominated in currencies other than the Argentine Peso. Any restrictions on transferring funds abroad imposed by the government could undermine our ability to pay dividends on our ADSs or make payments (of principal or interest) under our outstanding indebtedness in U.S. dollars, as well as to comply with any other obligation denominated in foreign currency. See “Item 10—Additional Information—Foreign Investment and Exchange Controls in Argentina”.

Depreciation of the Argentine Peso against major foreign currencies may also have an adverse impact on our capital expenditure program and increase the Argentine Peso amount of our trade payables and borrowings denominated in foreign currencies. As of December 31, 2023, approximately P$2,073,259 million of our liabilities net were denominated in foreign currencies. Telecom seeks to manage the risk of devaluation of the Argentine Peso, by entering from time to time into certain DFI agreements and futures contracts in order to hedge some of its exposure to foreign currency fluctuations. However, Telecom remains highly exposed to risks associated with the fluctuation of the Argentine Peso. In addition, the devaluation of the Argentine Peso and foreign exchange restrictions may affect compliance with our covenants (see “Restrictive covenants in Telecom’s outstanding indebtedness may restrict its ability to pursue its business strategies.”).

Economic and political developments in Argentina, and future policies of the Argentine government may affect the economy as well as the operations of the telecommunications industry, including Telecom Argentina.

The Argentine government has historically exercised significant influence over the economy, and telecommunications companies in particular have operated in a highly regulated environment. The Argentine government may promulgate numerous, far-reaching regulations affecting the economy and telecommunications companies in particular.

In August 2020, Decree No. 690/20 declared ICT services as an essential public service and imposed tariff regulations on such services. Decree No. 690/20 has been subject to several legal proceedings challenging its constitutionality and, as of the date of this Annual Report, the federal judiciary has suspended its effects until August 20, 2024. For further information about Decree No. 690/20, its related regulation and the related legal proceedings, see “Item 4 —Regulatory Authorities and Framework— Decree No. 690/20 - Amendment to the LAD - Controversy” and “Item 3—Risks Relating to Telecom and its operations— The regulation of prices may adversely affect Telecom Argentina’s revenues”.

On March 13, 2020, the Minister of Economy addressed a letter to the Paris Club members expressing Argentina’s decision to postpone until May 5, 2021 the US$2.1 billion payment originally due on May 5, 2020, in accordance with the terms of the settlement agreement the Republic had reached with the Paris Club members on May 29, 2014 (the “Paris Club 2014 Settlement Agreement”).

On June 22, 2021, the Minister of Economy announced that the Republic had obtained a “time bridge” within the framework of the Paris Club negotiations, consequently avoiding default. In October 2022, the Argentine government and the Paris Club agreed to reschedule 100% of the total amounts of principal and interest due by Argentina (estimated at US$1,972 billion) and reduce the applicable interest rates.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

16

During the first quarter of 2022, the Argentine government reached a new agreement with the IMF in order to renegotiate the principal maturities of the US$44.1 billion disbursed between 2018 and 2019 under a SBA, originally planned for the years 2021, 2022 and 2023. On January 28, 2022, the IMF and the Argentine authorities reached an understanding on key policies as part of their ongoing discussions on an IMF-supported program. On March 4, 2022, the Argentine government reached a staff-level agreement with the IMF and a bill was sent to the Argentine Congress. On March 11, 2022, the lower house of the Argentine Congress passed and sent to the Senate the bill that supports the agreement between Argentina and the IMF under the extended fund facility arrangement. Finally, on March 17, 2022, this agreement was approved by Argentine Congress. As of December 31, 2023, the IMF staff and the Argentine authorities reached a staff-level agreement on the first to the sixth reviews, under the extended fund facility arrangement. We cannot assure the Argentine government will be successful in future negotiations with the IMF, which could affect the Argentine government’s ability to implement reforms and public policies and boost economic growth, or the impact the result of such renegotiations will have in Argentina’s ability to access international capital markets (and indirectly in our ability to access those markets). Moreover, the long-term impact of these measures and any future measures taken by the government on the Argentine economy, as a whole and in the telecommunication sector in particular, remains uncertain. It is possible that such reforms could be disruptive to the economy and adversely affect the Argentine economy and the telecommunications industry, and consequently, our business, results of operations and financial condition. We are also unable to predict the measures that the Argentine government may adopt in the future, and how they will impact on the Argentine economy and our results of operations and financial condition.

In the event of any economic, social or political crisis, companies operating in Argentina may face the risk of strikes, expropriation, nationalization, mandatory amendment of existing contracts, and changes in taxation policies including tax increases and retroactive tax claims. In addition, Argentine courts have sanctioned modifications on rules related to labor matters, requiring companies to assume greater responsibility for the assumption of costs and risks associated with sub-contracted labor and the calculation of salaries, severance payments and social security contributions. Since we operate in a context in which the governing law and applicable regulations change frequently, also as a result of changes in government administrations, it is difficult to predict if and how our activities will be affected by such changes.

Presidential and federal congressional elections in Argentina were held in October 2023. Since assuming office on December 10, 2023, after winning the run-off election held on November 19, 2023, Javier Milei´s administration has announced a range of economic and policy reforms, which impact on the future economic and political environment is uncertain. No assurances can be made as to the policies that may be implemented by the new Argentine administration, or that political developments in Argentina, will not adversely affect the Argentine economy or our business, financial condition or results of operations. In addition, we cannot assure that future economic, regulatory, social and political developments in Argentina will not impair our business, financial condition or results of operations, or cause the market value of our shares to decline.

On December 21, 2023 Javier Milei´s administration issued Decree of Necessity and Urgency No. 70/2023, entitled “Bases para la Reconstrucción de la Economía Argentina” (Foundations for the reconstruction of the Argentine economy) establishing various initiatives for the deregulation of the economy and reduction of the size of the public administration and public expenses. The decree includes a series of legal, institutional, tax, and criminal reforms affecting various sectors of the economy. Additionally, the decree declares a public emergency in economic, financial, fiscal, social security, defense, tariff, energy, health and social matters until December 31, 2025, extendable for two additional years, and delegates numerous legislative powers to the Argentine Executive Branch for the duration of the public emergency.

The new administration submitted to Congress a significant number of reforms through the omnibus bill, entitled “Bases y Puntos de Partida para la Libertad de los Argentinos” (Foundations and Starting Points for the Freedom of the Argentine People). As of the date of this Annual Report, Argentina’s lower house returned President Javier Milei’s omnibus bill to the congressional legislative procedure commission, and next steps for the approval of this bill remain unclear.

The social, political and economic impact of the reforms and measures announced by the Argentine government to date and the impact of future reforms and measures that may be proposed remains uncertain. The ambitious deregulation scheme purported to be enforced by means of Decree No. 70/2023 could affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

We cannot assure that future economic, regulatory, social and political developments in Argentina will not adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations, or cause the decrease of the market value of our securities.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

17

Inflation has accelerated and could accelerate further, causing adverse effects on the economy and negatively impacting Telecom’s margins and/or ratios.

Pursuant to IAS 29, Argentina has a hyperinflationary economy. Inflation has continuously increased since 2005. There can be no assurance that inflation rates will not be higher in the future. Furthermore, the INDEC has experienced periods of political interventionism that raised serious concerns about the reliability of the data published by that agency. Future political intervention in the INDEC could jeopardize the agency’s autonomy and therefore affect the reliability of the statistics it publishes.

In addition, during last three years, various factors in the international economic and financial context, such as the military conflict between Russia and Ukraine and between Israel and Hamas, and the turbulence in international financial markets caused by rising inflation, particularly in the United States and Europe, had a negative impact on emerging economies such as Argentina. See “Item 3—Key Information—Risk Factors—Although Argentina’s economy grew during 2022 and 2021, it experienced contractions during 2023 and in the past and may contract in the future due to international and domestic conditions which may adversely affect our operations”. For example, inflation in Argentina raised significantly during 2023, reaching the highest monthly inflation of over 25% in December, after the new administration took office. The National CPI variation was 211.4% in 2023, 94.8% in 2022 and 50.9% in 2021. Efforts made by the Argentine government to contain and reduce inflation have not achieved the desired results and inflation remains a significant problem for the Argentine economy. If the value of the Argentine Peso cannot be stabilized through fiscal and monetary policies, an increase in inflation rates could be expected. For additional information, see Note 1.d) to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Because the majority of our revenues are denominated in Pesos, any further increase in the inflation rate not accompanied by a parallel increase in our prices would decrease our revenues in real terms and adversely affect our results of operations (See also “Item 3-Key Information-Risk Factors-Risks Relating to Telecom and its operations—The regulation of prices may adversely affect Telecom Argentina’s revenues”). Further, higher inflation rates generally lead to a reduction in the purchasing power, thus increasing the likelihood of a lower level of demand for our fixed and mobile telecommunications, cable television and Internet services in Argentina.

The Argentine government may exercise greater intervention in private sector companies, including Telecom Argentina.

In November 2008, Argentina nationalized its private pension and retirement system, and appointed ANSES as its administrator, which affected the access to financing in capital markets for publicly traded companies as well as the liquidity of their securities within the market. A significant portion of the public float of certain Argentine publicly traded companies is currently owned by the Argentine government through ANSES-FGS, including Telecom. See “Item 7—Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions”. The Argentine government exercised in the past, and may exercise in the future, influence over corporate governance decisions of companies in which it owns shares by combining its ability to exercise its shareholder voting rights to designate board and supervisory committee members with its ability to dictate tax and regulatory matters.

The Argentine government exercised in the past, and may exercise in the future, decisions to intervene private companies in financial distress. We cannot predict whether the current administration or future administrations will take similar or further measures, including nationalization, expropriation and/or increased Argentine governmental intervention in companies. Government intervention in the industries in which we operate could create uncertainties for investors in public companies in Argentina, including Telecom Argentina, as well as have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. See “—Economic and political developments in Argentina, and future policies of the Argentine government may affect the economy as well as the operations of the telecommunications industry, including Telecom Argentina”.

Although Argentina’s economy grew during 2022 and 2021, it experienced contractions during 2023 and in the past and may contract in the future due to international and domestic conditions which may adversely affect our operations.

The Argentine economy has experienced significant volatility in the past few years and recent decades, characterized by periods of low or negative GDP growth, high and variable levels of inflation and currency devaluation. Argentina’s economy experienced a contraction during 2023, after the recovery process observed since the huge contraction during 2020 and the country’s economy remains unstable notwithstanding the efforts by the Argentine government to address inflation and the constraints on the country’s foreign exchange reserves and related pressure on the value of the Peso. Substantially all of our operations, properties and customers are located in Argentina, and, as a result, our business is, to a large extent, dependent upon economic and legal conditions prevailing in Argentina.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

18

If economic conditions in Argentina were to further deteriorate, they could have an adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

Global financial instability, the armed conflicts between Russia and Ukraine and Israel and Hamas or global economic conditions, any future increases in the interest rate of the United States and other developed countries and any other global economic events may impact the Argentine economy and prevent Argentina to be put back on track to growth or could aggravate the current recession with consequences in trade and fiscal balances and in the unemployment rate. Although Argentina’s economy recovered during 2021 and 2022, Argentina’s economy contracted during 2023.

Argentina’s economy may be negatively affected in the future by several domestic factors such as an appreciation of the real exchange rate which could affect its competitiveness, further worsening trade balance, which, combined with capital outflows could reduce the levels of consumption and investment resulting in greater exchange rate pressure. Additionally, abrupt changes in monetary and fiscal policies or foreign exchange regime could rapidly affect local economic output, while lack of appropriate levels of investment in certain economy sectors could reduce long-term growth. Access to the international financial markets could be limited. Consequently, an increase in public spending not correlated with an increase in public revenues could affect the Argentina’s fiscal results and generate uncertainties that might affect the economy’s growth level.

In February 2022, Russian troops invaded Ukraine. Although the severity and duration of the ongoing military conflict are highly unpredictable, and the conflict has led to sanctions being levied by the United States, the European Union and other countries against Russia, with additional potential sanctions threatened and/or proposed. Russia’s military incursion and the market volatility could adversely affect the global economy and financial markets and thus could affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. The extent and duration of the military conflict, sanctions and resulting market disruptions are impossible to predict, but could be substantial. Any such disruptions caused by Russian military action or resulting sanctions may magnify the impact of other risks described in this Annual Report and may result in compliance and operational challenges for the Company. In particular, we maintain telecommunications agreements with certain international carriers that may deliver traffic between the Company’s networks, Russia and Ukraine, including potentially certain sanctioned territories within Ukraine. Although U.S. sanctions authorize the receipt or transmission of telecommunications with such sanctioned territories, to the extent that any activities involving those international carriers are outside the scope of such authorization, or sanctions relating to Russia and Ukraine are expanded, such activity may potentially result in regulatory or enforcement actions against the Company. Further, if the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas that reignited in October 2023 results in the imposition of sanctions, this may similarly potentially result in regulatory or enforcement actions against the Company.

In addition to the severe social and market disruption at a global scale during 2020 caused by the COVID 19 outbreak, in recent years, several trading partners of Argentina (such as Brazil, Europe and China) have experienced significant slowdowns or recession periods in their economies. These slowdowns intensified during 2020. While the vast majority of economies recovered during the last years, if such slowdowns or recessions were to recur, this may impact the demand for products coming from Argentina and hence affect its economy. Additionally, there is uncertainty as to how the trade relationship between the Mercosur member States will unfold, in particular between Argentina and Brazil. We cannot predict the effect on the Argentine economy and our operations if trade disputes arise between Argentina and Brazil, or in case either country decided to exit the Mercosur.

In addition, the global macroeconomic environment is facing challenges. There is considerable uncertainty over the long-term effects of the monetary and fiscal policies adopted by the central banks and financial authorities of some of the world’s leading economies, including the United States, Europe and China. Some of these monetary measures have negatively impacted financial markets during 2022 and 2023.

During October 2023, an armed conflict between Israel and Hamas-led Palestinian militant groups has been taking place chiefly in and around the Gaza Strip, with clashes also taking place in the West Bank and Israel–Lebanon border. There have been concerns over unrest and terrorist threats in the Middle East, Europe and Africa and over the conflicts involving Iran, Ukraine, Russia, Syria and North Korea. There have also been concerns on the relationship among China and other Asian countries, which may result in or intensify potential conflicts in relation to territorial disputes, and the possibility of economic conflict between the United States and China, which began in 2018.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

19

If international and domestic conditions for Argentina were to worsen due to the aforementioned factors, the Argentine economy could be negatively affected as a result of lower international demand and lower prices for its products and services, higher international interest rates, lower capital inflows and higher risk aversion, which may also adversely affect our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

Argentina’s ability to obtain financing from international markets is limited, which could affect its capacity to implement reforms and sustain economic growth.

Argentina has experienced financial distress since its default on certain debt payments in 2001, 2014 and 2020. During 2020, the Argentine government entered into negotiations with its creditors to restore the sustainability of its external public debt. By August of that year, the Argentine government restructured approximately US$66.5 billion of its U.S. Dollar-denominated global bonds.

On January 28, 2022, the Argentine government and the IMF announced that they had reached an understanding on key policies as part of their ongoing discussions relating to an IMF-supported program. Later, on March 3, 2022, the IMF and the Argentine government reached a staff-level agreement on the economic and financial policies to be supported by a 30-month extended fund facility arrangement (the “EFF Agreement”), which was approved by the Argentine Congress through Law No. 27,668 on March 17, 2022, and enacted by Decree No. 130/22. Subsequently, the executive board of the IMF approved the EFF Agreement for an amount equivalent to US$44 billion, including an immediate disbursement of US$9.6 billion. As of December 31, 2023, the IMF Executive Board and the Argentine authorities reached a staff-level agreement on the first to the sixth reviews, under the extended fund facility arrangement. On February 1, 2024, the IMF Executive Board concluded the seventh review of the agreement under the IMF extended fund facility for Argentina. The decision of the Executive Board enables an immediate disbursement of approximately US$4.7 billion (or Special Drawing Rights “SDR” 3.5 billion) to support the significant efforts of the new authorities to restore macroeconomic stability and get the program back on track.

On October 28, 2022, the Minister of Economy announced a new agreement with the Paris Club, which is an addendum to the Paris Club 2014 Settlement Agreement. This new agreement recognizes a principal amount of US$1.971 billion, extending the repayment period to thirteen semi-annual installments, starting in December 2022 to be repaid in full in September 2028. As part of the agreement, the interest rate applicable to the first three installments was reduced from 9% to 3.9%, with subsequent gradual increases to 4.5%. The payment profile implies semi-annual payments averaging US$170 million (principal and interest included). In early April 2023, the former Minister of Economy, Sergio Massa, signed agreements with the Netherlands, Germany, Canada, Israel, Finland, Denmark and Austria, part of the negotiations between the Argentine government and the group of creditor countries of the Paris Club to finalize the payment of the obligations in 2028. As of December 31, 2023 Argentina has made an interest payment to the Paris Club for about US$190 million and other organizations such as the World Bank and the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF), among others, for US$38 million as part of the scheme committed to in international agreements.

We cannot assure you that the EFF Agreement will not affect Argentina’s ability to implement reforms and public policies and boost economic growth. In addition, the long-term impact of these measures and any future measures taken by the current government on the Argentine economy remains uncertain.

Despite the restructuring of Argentina’s public debt carried out between 2020 and 2022, international markets remain cautious about Argentina’s debt sustainability and, as a result, country risk indicators remain high. There can be no assurance that Argentina’s credit ratings will remain in place or otherwise be downgraded, suspended or cancelled. Any downgrade, suspension or cancellation of Argentina’s sovereign debt rating may have an adverse effect on the Argentine economy and our business.

Without renewed access to financial markets, the Argentine government may not have the financial resources to implement reforms and drive growth. Argentina’s inability to obtain credit in international markets could have a direct impact on our ability to access those markets to finance our operations and growth, including the financing of capital expenditures, which would adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. In addition, we cannot predict the outcome of any future restructuring of Argentine sovereign debt. We have investments in Argentine sovereign bonds in the amount of P$111,339 million as of December 31, 2023. Any new event of default by the Argentine government could adversely affect their valuation and repayment terms, as well as have a material adverse effect on the Argentine economy and, consequently, our business and results of operations.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

20

The Argentine banking system may be subject to instability which may affect our operations.

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Argentine financial system grew significantly with a marked increase in loans and private deposits, showing a recovery of credit activity. In spite of the fact that the financial system’s deposits continue to grow in nominal terms, they are mostly short-term deposits and the sources of medium and long-term funding for financial institutions are currently limited. In 2023, nominal private deposits in Pesos increased 140.7% year-over-year (fueled by the growth of nominal time deposits with a 69.1% increase). During the same period, loans in foreign currency (composed mainly of corporate loans) evidenced a decrease of 2.9%. In 2023, private deposits in U.S. dollars decreased by 3.6%.

Financial institutions are particularly subject to significant regulation from multiple regulatory authorities, all of which may, among other things, establish limits on commissions and impose sanctions on the financial institutions. The lack of a stable regulatory framework, or changes to such regulatory framework by the government, could impose significant limitations on the activities of the financial institutions and could induce uncertainty with respect to the financial system stability.

The persistence of the current economic crisis or the instability of one or more of the larger banks, public or private, could have a material adverse effect on the prospects for economic growth and political stability in Argentina, resulting in a loss of consumer confidence, lower disposable income and fewer financing alternatives for consumers. These conditions would have a material adverse effect on us by resulting in lower usage of our services, lower sales of devices and the possibility of a higher level of uncollectible accounts or an increase in the credit risk of the counterparties regarding the Company investments in local financial institutions. In addition, exchange controls and restrictions on transfers abroad and capital inflows limit the availability of international credit.

We are subject to Argentine and international anti-corruption, anti-bribery and anti-money laundering laws and may be subject to compliance with economic and trade sanctions programs. Our failure to comply with these laws and programs could result in penalties, which could harm our reputation and have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

The United States Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, the Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development Anti-Bribery Convention, the Argentine Corporate Criminal Liability Law (Ley de Responsabilidad Penal Empresaria) and other applicable anti-corruption laws prohibit companies and their intermediaries from offering or making improper payments (or giving anything of value) to government officials and/or persons in the private sector for the purpose of influencing them or obtaining or retaining business and require companies to keep accurate books and records and maintain appropriate internal controls. In particular, the Argentine Corporate Criminal Liability Law provides for the criminal liability of corporate entities for criminal offences against public administration and transnational bribery committed by, among others, its attorneys-in-fact, directors, managers, employees, or representatives. Relatedly, we may be subject to compliance with economic and trade sanctions programs, including certain of which that are administered by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (“OFAC”), which prohibit or restrict transactions or dealings with certain territories, governments, organizations, and individuals. Although these programs differ from one sanctions regime to another, to be subject to sanctions compliance requirements, such activities generally need to occur within the jurisdiction of the sanctioning authority. Failure to comply with any anti-corruption, anti-bribery or anti-money laundering laws or economic and trade sanctions programs could subject us to legal and reputational consequences, including civil and criminal penalties.

It may be possible that, in the future, there may emerge in the press allegations of instances of misbehavior on the part of former agents, current or former employees or others acting on our behalf or on the part of public officials or other third parties doing or considering business with us. We will endeavor to monitor such press reports and investigate matters that we believe warrant an investigation in keeping with the requirements of compliance programs and, if necessary, make disclosure and notify the relevant authorities. However, any adverse publicity that such allegations attract may have a negative impact on our reputation and lead to increased regulatory scrutiny of our business practices.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

21

Our subsidiary Micro Sistemas is subject to Argentine anti-money laundering laws and administrative regulations that conform, in particular, to the international standards established by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF-GAFI) (the “Anti-Money Laundering Laws”) that prohibit, among other things, their involvement in receiving and/or transferring the proceeds of criminal activities and impose obligations to identify the users and beneficial ownership and request certain information and documentation that, in certain circumstances, must be shared with regulators or government institutions. See “Item 4—Information on the Company—Regulatory Authorities and Framework”. Failure to comply with Anti-Money Laundering Laws could result in significant administrative and/or criminal sanctions as provided in such regulation.

We believe that our past and present activities are in compliance with applicable anti-corruption, anti-bribery and anti-money laundering laws and economic and trade sanctions programs. However, such laws and programs are complex and subject to significant discretion by the relevant authorities. As a result, we cannot provide any guarantees that our activities will not be challenged in the future, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. If we or individuals or entities that are or were related to us are found to be liable for violations of applicable anti-corruption, anti-bribery or anti-money laundering laws (either due to our own acts or our inadvertence, or due to the acts or inadvertence of others) or economic and trade sanctions programs, we or other individuals or entities could face civil and criminal penalties or other sanctions, which in turn could have a material adverse impact on our reputation, business, financial condition and results of operations.

Public health crises and measures that might be implemented by the Argentine government in response to them could have an adverse effect on our business operations.

We are subject to risks related to public health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which had an adverse effect on our operating results mainly in 2020 and 2021. As a result, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially affected by a crisis, like the COVID-19 pandemic, that could significantly impact the way customers use and pay for our products and services, the way our employees provide services to our customers, and the ways that our partners and suppliers provide products and services to us. For example, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, there were public and private sector policies and initiatives to reduce the transmission of COVID-19, including the initiatives we took to promote the health and safety of our employees and provide critical infrastructure and connectivity to our customers, all of which occurred in the context of a related global slowdown in economic activity. In addition, such a crisis could significantly increase the probability or consequences of the risks our business faces in ordinary circumstances, such as risks associated with our supplier and vendor relationships, risks of an economic slowdown, regulatory risks, and the costs and availability of financing.

Risks Relating to Telecom and its operations

We may become subject to burdensome regulations, ordinances and laws affecting the services we offer which could adversely affect our operations.

Activities in the fixed and mobile telephony, cable television and Internet businesses are subject to risks associated with the adoption and implementation of laws and governmental regulations that reflect changing governmental policies over time. The Argentine government has historically exercised significant influence over the economy, and telecommunications companies in particular have operated in a highly regulated environment. In the past, the Argentine government promulgated numerous, far-reaching regulations affecting the economy and telecommunications companies in particular. Existing regulations could further increase penalties that may be imposed by the regulatory authorities. In addition, local municipalities in the regions where we operate have also introduced regulations and proposed various taxes and fees for the installation of infrastructure, equipment and expansion of fixed line and mobile networks. For example, municipalities usually restrict areas where antennas may be deployed, negatively impacting our mobile service coverage, which in turn affects the quality of our services. Municipal and provincial tax authorities have also brought an increasing number of claims against us, which we are replying. If changes to existing laws and regulations lead to negative consequences for the Company, our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows may be adversely affected.

After the deregulation of Argentina’s telecommunications and media industries, the Broadcasting Law, No. 26,522, the LAD and their implementing regulations have been amended on a number of occasions, modifying requirements to hold or transfer broadcasting licenses.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

22

In March 2020, in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, the Argentine government introduced emergency measures in the telecommunications sector in order to alleviate the financial burden of the pandemic on individuals and companies. Decree No. 311/20 issued by the PEN on March 24, 2020 determined that services related to fixed and mobile telephony, Internet and cable television would not be interrupted for defaults in payment by a certain group of customers defined therein. In August 2020, Decree No. 690/20 declared ICT services as an essential public service and imposed tariff regulations on such services. See “Item 3—Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Telecom and its operations— The regulation of prices may adversely affect Telecom Argentina’s revenues”.

We can offer no assurances that we will not be subject to similar regulations in the future, which could force us to modify the prices of subscription services and have a material adverse effect on our revenues. The regulatory authorities have imposed increasing burdens and new regulations on companies that could increase the penalties they can impose for breaches of the regulatory framework.

Moreover, in certain municipalities, regulations have been adopted requiring us to upgrade and/or modify our cable television systems. We will seek to continue to upgrade our existing cable systems, including any network upgrades or modifications required by regulatory or local authorities if we have sufficient cash flow and financing is available at commercially attractive rates. Although currently applicable local ordinances provide that certain penalties may be imposed, including the suspension of the right to use the air space, municipalities have generally not imposed penalties on non-compliant cable systems operators. As of the date of this Annual Report, no fines have been imposed to us in relation to this matter.

The Auction Terms and Conditions approved by Resolution SC No. 38/14 established strict coverage and network deployment commitments that will require significant capital expenditures from Telecom. Additionally, many municipal governments have issued regulations that, in our view, exceed their authority, which frequently limit, hinder or restrict the installation of the infrastructure required to comply with such commitments. Therefore, such legislation negatively impacts the obligations that we and our competitors assumed in the mobile telephony business pursuant to the requirements set out in the Regulation for the Quality of Telecommunications Services.

We may also be subject to additional and unexpected governmental regulations in the future. For more information on the regulatory framework, see “Item 4—Information on the Company—Regulatory Authorities and Framework.”

Additionally, SCI Resolution No. 50/10 approved certain rules governing pay television services. These rules provide that cable television operators must apply a formula to calculate their monthly subscription prices. The price arising from the application of the formula was to be informed to the Office of Business Loyalty (Dirección de Lealtad Comercial), requiring cable television operators to adjust such amount semi-annually and inform the result of such adjustment to that Office. The Company challenged Resolution No. 50/10 and requested the suspension of its effects and its nullity. Over the years there have been rulings, appeals and regulations related to the Resolution No. 50/10, which are still without a final resolution. The Company’s Management, with the assistance of its legal advisors, is analyzing the potential impact related to the latest appeal and considers that it has strong arguments for its defense. However, an adverse outcome in the aforementioned cases, which we cannot exclude, would have a negative effect on our results of operations and financial condition. For additional information regarding Resolution No. 50/10, see Note 19 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

We face substantial and increasing competition in the Argentine fixed and mobile telephony, cable television and Internet businesses.

The fixed and mobile telephony, cable television and Internet businesses in Argentina are competitive. Our competitors may consummate transactions that result in a further consolidation and convergence. Therefore, we may lose a portion of our market share which may create additional risks and adversely impact our financial condition and results of operations. See “Item 3—Key Information—Risk Factors”—We may become subject to burdensome government regulations, ordinances and laws affecting the services we offer which could adversely affect our operations”.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

23

We compete with other cable television operators that have built networks in the areas in which we operate, providers of other pay television services, including direct broadcasting, direct-to-home satellite and multi-channel multi-point distribution system services, licensed suppliers of Basic Telephone Services and cooperative entities providing utility services and also with free broadcasting services which are currently available to the Argentine population in certain areas from four privately-owned television networks and their local affiliates and one state-owned national public television network. We expect competition to increase in the future due to a number of factors, including the development of new technologies.

In relation to mobile services, we anticipate that we will have to devote significant resources to the refurbishment and maintenance of our existing network infrastructure to comply with regulatory obligations and to remain competitive with respect to the quality of our services. In addition, we must comply with the obligations arising from the acquisition of the 4G spectrum. We also expect to continue to devote resources to customer retention and loyalty in such services.

Technological innovation relating to fixed and mobile telephony, cable television and Internet transmission increases the level of competition that we face and requires us to make frequent investments to develop new and innovative programming services and products to attract and retain fixed and mobile telephony, cable television and Internet customers. We cannot assure you that we will be able to make the investments necessary to remain competitive, or that we will be able to attract new and retain our current customers. A substantial loss of customers to competitors would have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.

Additionally, our ability to successfully invest in, and implement, new technologies, coverage and our wireless network may be impaired if we fail to obtain certain municipal authorizations, as well as by an adverse macroeconomic condition in Argentina. If we are not successful in making such investments, the growth of our business and quality of our services would be adversely affected. Further, if we are unable to make these capital expenditures, or if our competitors are able to invest in their businesses to a greater degree and/or faster than we are, our competitive position will be adversely impacted.

We also face competition from other cable television and Internet service providers. Certain competitors of the cable television and Internet business have well-established name recognition, larger customer bases, and significant financial, technical and marketing resources. This may allow them to devote significant resources to the development and promotion of their business. These competitors may also engage in more extensive research and development, adopt more aggressive pricing policies and make more attractive offers to advertisers. Competitors may develop products and services that are equal or superior to our offers or that achieve greater market acceptance. As a result, competition may have a material adverse effect on our operations.

Moreover, the products and services that we offer may fail to generate revenues or attract and retain customers. If our competitors present similar or better responsiveness, functionality, services, speed, plans or features, our customer base and our revenues may be materially affected.

Competitiveness is and will continue to be affected by the business strategies and alliances deployed by our competitors. We may face additional pressure on the prices that we charge for our services or experience a loss of market share in the services we provide. In addition, the general business and economic climate in Argentina may affect us and our competitors differently; thus our ability to compete in the market could be adversely affected.

Additionally, if in the future licensees of ICT services are allowed to register and provide subscription broadcasting service by satellite link, it will ease the entry of new competitors into the market. As a result, we may face additional pressure with respect to prices we charge for our services or experience a loss of participation in the subscription broadcasting market.

Given the range of regulatory, business and economic uncertainties we face, it is difficult to predict with precision and accuracy our future market share in relevant geographic areas and customer segments, or to anticipate a decrease in demand for the products we offer that could result in a reduction of our revenues and market share, or the speed with which such change in our market share or prevailing prices for services may occur or the effects of competition. Those effects could be material and adverse to our overall financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

24

Our revenues may vary depending upon the condition of the Argentine economy.

Revenues generated by our fixed and mobile telephony, cable television and Internet operations have in the past been impacted by Argentina’s unstable macroeconomic environment and have been dependent on the general economic conditions in Argentina. In the past, a general economic downturn in Argentina has had, and would be expected to have in the future, a negative effect on our revenues and a material adverse effect on our results of operations. Historically, for example, increases in losses of cable television customers have corresponded with general economic downturns and regional and local economic recessions.

The regulation of prices may adversely affect Telecom Argentina’s revenues.

The LAD established that licensees of ICT services may freely set their prices which shall be fair and reasonable, to offset the costs of exploitation and to tend to the efficient supply and reasonable margin of operation.

However, on August 22, 2020, the PEN issued Decree No. 690/20 amending the LAD. Decree No. 690/20 declared ICT services (which includes fixed and mobile telephony services, cable television and Internet) as well as access to telecommunications networks for and between licensees as “essential and strategic competition public services”, and empowered ENACOM to ensure accessibility. Decree No. 690/20 further established that (i) the prices of the Essential and Strategic Competition Public ICT Services, (ii) the prices of those services provided in accordance with the Universal Service, and (iii) the prices of those services determined by ENACOM for public interest reasons, shall be regulated by ENACOM. Decree No. 690/20 has been ratified by the Argentine Congress under Law No. 26,122 and has been regulated through ENACOM Resolutions Nos. 1,466/20 and 1,467/20.

The Company initiated legal proceedings before the Federal Court of Appeals on Administrative Litigation Matters challenging the constitutionality of Decree No. 690/20 and the aforementioned ENACOM Resolutions. The Company, with the assistance of its legal advisors, is analyzing the actions that may be necessary in order to protect its rights. See “Item 4 —Regulatory Authorities and Framework— Decree No. 690/20 - Amendment to the LAD - Controversy”.

If ENACOM imposes further restrictions on our prices, our operating margins may be adversely affected. Our ability to comply with the conditions in our license, as well as the relevant provisions in applicable regulations and laws, may be affected by events or circumstances outside of our control, and therefore we cannot predict whether such events or circumstances result in an adverse effect on our financial condition, our operations and cash flows. The Company, with the assistance of its legal advisors, is analyzing the actions that may be necessary in order to protect its rights. See “Item 4 —Regulatory Authorities and Framework— Decree No. 690/20 - Amendment to the LAD - Controversy”.

Technological advances and replacement of our equipment may require us to make significant expenditures to maintain and improve the competitiveness of the services we offer.

Our industry is subject to significant changes in technology and the introduction of new products and services. We cannot predict the effect of technological changes on our business. New services and technological advances related to the telecommunications, cable television, Internet, digital solutions and Fintech Services industries are likely to offer additional opportunities to compete against us on the basis of cost, quality or functionality. It may not be practicable or cost-effective for us to replace or upgrade our installed technologies in response to our competitors’ actions. Responding to such change may require us to devote substantial capital to the development, procurement or implementation of new technologies, and may depend on the final cost in local currency of imported technology and our ability to obtain additional financing. No assurance can be given that we will have the funds to make the capital expenditures to improve our systems, compete with others in the market or replace equipment used in connection with our businesses.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

25

Moreover, Internet, cable television and mobile telephony services are characterized by rapidly changing technology, evolving industry standards, changes in customer preferences and the frequent introduction of new services and products. To remain competitive, we must invest in network, constantly upgrade our access technology and software for the internet service market, improve the commercial offers and the user experience and continue to enhance our mobile networks by expanding our network. There can be no guarantees that our attempts to innovate and diversify our business will be successful. Future technological developments may result in decreased customer demand for certain of our services or even render them obsolete. In addition, as new technologies develop, equipment may need to be replaced or upgraded or network facilities (in particular, mobile and Internet network facilities) may need to be rebuilt in whole or in part, at substantial cost, to remain competitive. These enhancements and the implementation of new technologies will continue requiring increased capital expenditures.

The intellectual property used by us, our suppliers or service providers may infringe on intellectual property rights owned by others.

Some of our products and services use intellectual property that we own or license from others. We also provide content we receive from content producers and distributors, such as ringtones, text games, video games, video, including TV programs and movies, wallpapers or screensavers, and we outsource services to service providers, including billing and customer care functions, which incorporate or utilize intellectual property. We and some of our suppliers, content distributors and service providers may receive in the future, assertions and claims from third parties that the content, products or software utilized by us or our suppliers, content producers and distributors and service providers infringe on the patents or other intellectual property rights of these third parties. These claims could require us or an infringing supplier, content distributor or service provider to cease engaging in certain activities, including selling, offering and providing the relevant products and services. Such claims and assertions also could subject us to costly litigation and significant liabilities for damages or royalty payments or require us to cease certain activities or prevent us from selling certain products or services.

The media industry is a dynamic and evolving industry, and if it does not develop and expand as we currently expect, our results and operations relating to our cable television and Internet businesses may suffer.

We expect to derive an increasing amount of revenues from our activities in the cable television and Internet industries, but we may not do so if these non-traditional media operations do not develop and expand as we currently expect. The role of cable television in Argentina became increasingly important in the past. More recently, non-traditional technologies, including “Over-The-Top” services (which are services provided by a telecommunications provider through Internet Protocol (“IP”) networks not necessarily owned by the provider, including communications, content and cloud-based offerings), such as technologies used by Netflix or other IP operators, have come to play a larger role in the Argentine telecommunications industry. These companies take advantage of the deregulation of the sector to bring their services through third-party networks without paying any fee or right to use it. These technology and new services areas are in the early stages of development, and growth may be inhibited for a number of reasons, including:

the cost of connectivity;
concerns about security, reliability, and privacy;
unexpected changes in the regulatory framework;
the appearance of technological innovations;
the ease of use; and
the quality of service.

Our business, financial condition and results of operations will be materially and adversely affected if these markets do not continue to grow or grow more slowly than we anticipate.

In addition, unlike the Argentine cable television industry, which has traditionally been dominated by companies located in Argentina, competitors in the other services we provide may be based outside of Argentina and enjoy certain competitive advantages such as scale and access to financial resources on terms that are better than those available to us.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

26

We may not be able to renew programming contracts on favorable terms.

We purchase basic and premium programming from approximately 70 programming suppliers. Several programming suppliers agreed to offer volume discount pricing structures because of the growth and market share shown by our cable television operations. Participants in the cable television industry negotiate the terms of a majority of the respective programming contracts that had originally been denominated in U.S. dollars to provide for Peso-denominated pricing formulas generally linked to the number of customers and without minimum purchase requirements. As a consequence, contract terms are generally shortened and pricing provisions are adjusted in order to transfer the benefit of increases in the monthly fee for basic cable television services to the programming companies. The new contracts also provide for automatic termination upon the occurrence of major macroeconomic disruptions. We cannot assure you that we will be able to regularly negotiate renewals of our programming contracts at current cost levels, particularly since many of our suppliers have U.S. dollar-based costs. Additionally, suppliers are expected to seek price increases as a reflection of economic conditions in Argentina. There can similarly be no assurances that we will be able to obtain volume discounts in the future.

We may not be able to renew some leases of the facilities for the installation of our fixed and mobile telephony, cable television and Internet systems.

Our fixed and mobile telephony services, cable television services and Internet services are distributed through networks installed in facilities leased from third parties, either through the lease of space on roofs or on utility poles. We regularly renegotiate the renewal of short-term lease contracts for the use of poles in different areas of the country in the ordinary course of our business. If we are not able to renew some of those lease contracts, our operations in such areas may be suspended if alternative third-party facilities are not promptly obtained on a cost-efficient basis. Underground distribution of our wire network would require additional governmental authorizations and significant capital expenditures that we may not be able to afford or that we may be restricted from making pursuant to the terms and conditions of our indebtedness and our existing covenants. There can be no assurance that such renewals of lease contracts will be granted.

Our revenues may be adversely affected by an increase in churn rates, with respect to mobile telephony, cable television and Internet services, or reductions in fixed telephony lines in service, with respect to fixed telephony services.

Our revenues depend significantly on our ability to retain customers by limiting churn rates, with respect to mobile telephony, cable television and Internet services, or net reductions in fixed telephony lines in service, with respect to fixed telephony services. Any substantial increase in churn rates, with respect to mobile telephony, cable television and Internet services, or reductions in lines in service, with respect to fixed telephony services, may have a material adverse effect on our revenues and results of operations. For further information about churn rates see “Item 4—Management of Churn” and “Item 5—Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Consolidated Results of Operations— (A.1) 2023 Compared to 2022”.

Actual or perceived health risks or other problems relating to mobile handsets or transmission masts could lead to litigation or decreased mobile communications usage.

The effects of, and any damage caused by, exposure to an electromagnetic field were and are the subject of careful evaluations by the international scientific community, but until now there is no scientific evidence of harmful effects on health. We cannot rule out that exposure to electromagnetic fields or other emissions originating from wireless handsets will not be identified as a health risk in the future.

Telecom complies with the international security standards established by the World Health Organization and Argentine regulations -which are similar and mandatory for all Argentine mobile operators. Our mobile business may be harmed as a result of any future alleged health risk. For example, the perception of these health risks could result in a lower number of customers, reduced usage per customer or potential consumer liability, all of which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

27

Our operations and financial condition could be affected by future union negotiations, Argentine labor regulations and governmental measures requiring private companies to increase salaries or otherwise provide workers with additional benefits.

In Argentina, labor organizations have substantial support and considerable political influence. In recent years, the demands of our labor organizations have increased, mainly as a result of the increase in the cost of living, which was affected by increased inflation, higher tax pressure over salaries and the consequent decline in the population’s purchasing power.

In addition, in the absence of a union agreement concerning convergent services, if we are unable to reach an agreement with the unions on work conditions, or in case of a lack of recognition among union associations, we may be adversely affected by individual labor claims, class actions, higher union contributions expenses, impacts to our operations, impairment of services due to inefficient processes, union conflicts, direct action measures and social impacts which may also affect the quality and continuity of our services to our customers and our reputation.

Certain labor and telecommunication unions have initiated claims against the Company alleging non-compliance of certain conditions provided for in the collective bargaining agreements that could allow them to negotiate the inclusion of some suppliers’ employees in their collective bargaining agreements. See Note 19 to our Consolidated Financial Statements. If labor organization claims continue or are sustained, this could result in increased costs, greater conflict in the negotiation process and strikes (including general strikes and strikes by the Company’s employees and the contractors and subcontractors’ employees) that may adversely affect our operations. See “Item 6—Directors, Senior Management and Employees—Employees and Labor Relations”.

Moreover, the Argentine government has enacted laws and regulations requiring private sector companies to maintain certain salary levels and provide their employees with additional benefits. On December 13, 2019, the Argentine government declared a labor emergency for a 180-day term. In this context, the Argentine government doubled the amount of the statutory severance payments payable to employees hired before December 13, 2019 and dismissed between December 13 2019 and June 13, 2020. The layoff prohibition was extended pursuant to Decree No. 528/20 and Decree No. 961/20. Decree No. 39/21, in effect until April 27, 2021, extended the prohibition of dismissals without just cause or based on lack or reduction of work and force majeure, as well as the prohibitions to suspensions for economic reasons, except for suspensions made under the terms of Section 223 bis of the Labor Contract Law (agreements between employers and employees later approved by the Ministry of Labor, made either individually or collectively with the purpose of suspending employment for lack or reduction of work due to no fault from the employer), which were not affected by the prohibition.

Likewise, Decree No. 39/21 extended the occupational emergency until December 31, 2023, but there is no more prohibition of dismisses, or double severance payment.

Moreover, in September 2022, the National Labor Court of Appeals (Cámara Nacional de Apelaciones del Trabajo) in Buenos Aires issued Resolution No. 2,764, which modifies the way labor credits are claimed before the National Labor Court for the Federal Capital (Justicia Nacional del Trabajo de la Capital Federal). As a result of this resolution, interest should be accrued on an annual basis for a given labor credit claim as of the date such claim is filed and until the claim is effectively cancelled (with some variants whether it is in first or second instance courts and - even - between the different courts of law). In many cases, formulas are used to limit the aforementioned interest calculation. On February 29, 2024, the Supreme Court of Argentina in re "OLIVA, FABIO OMAR vs. COMA S.A. on/ DISMISSAL" decided that the calculation of compound interest in this case resulted in unjust enrichment and emphasized that the Civil and Commercial Code of Argentina does not authorize the calculation of compound interest.

Chapter 4 of the Decree of Necessity and Urgency No. 70/2023 substantially amends certain labor laws. Mainly, it eases the conditions for hiring and registering personnel, limits the fines and interest rates that can be claimed in court, and declares telecommunications services, as well as sanitary, production, transportation, distribution, and commercialization services related to water, gas, and electricity supply, aviation services, customs and migration services, and childcare and education services, as essential services. In addition, it declared that services such as radio and television, as well as financial services, among others, shall be deemed of paramount importance. The General Confederation of Labor (CGT), along with other trade unions, requested that these provisions in Chapter 4 be declared unconstitutional, and obtained an injunction that ordered the suspension of its application. On January 30, 2024, the National Court of Appeals on Labor Matters issued a ruling declaring the unconstitutionality of these provisions. As of date of this Annual Report, the Supreme Court of Argentina has not yet issued a final ruling.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

28

The Argentine government may adopt new measures that determine salary increases or additional benefits for workers, and workers and their unions may pressure employers to comply with such measures. Any salary increase or additional benefit could result in an increase in costs and a decrease in the results of the operations of Argentine companies, including those of Telecom. Further, future extensions of the prohibition of layoffs and dismissals due to force majeure or lack of or decreased work or the duplication of the statutory severance payments to dismissed employees may affect the efficiency of our employees and therefore our costs and results of operations.

We are or may be involved in legal and regulatory proceedings that could result in unfavorable decisions and financial penalties for us.

We are party to a number of legal and regulatory proceedings, some of which have been pending for several years. We cannot be certain that these claims will be resolved in our favor. Responding to the demands of litigation claims and responding to, or initiating proceedings against, regulatory bodies may divert management’s time attention and financial resources.

For example, Argentine law incentivizes individuals to pursue employment-related litigation and certain judicial rulings have created a negative precedent in these matters and could increase our labor costs. The Company is also exposed to employment-related claims of employees of suppliers, contractors and commercial agents claiming direct or indirect responsibility of Telecom based on a broad interpretation of the rules of labor law.

Further, customers and consumers’ trade unions have in the past initiated different claims against us regarding alleged improperly billed charges. Although we have taken certain actions to reduce risks in connection with these claims, we cannot assure that new claims will not be filed against us in the future.

The Company has been subject to technical sanctions from regulatory bodies, mainly related to the delay in repairing defective lines, installing new lines and/or service failures. Although sanctions are appealed in the administrative stage, if the appeals are not resolved in our favor in administrative or judicial stage or if they are resolved for amounts larger than those recorded, these proceedings could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of our operations and cash flows.

We may also be involved in proceedings related to other authorities that have jurisdiction over different aspects of our operations, including, but not limited to, antitrust authorities, the CNV, the public registry of commerce and tax authorities.

As of December 31, 2023, we recorded provisions that we estimate are sufficient to cover contingencies considered probable. However, we may face increased risk of employment, commercial, regulatory, tax, consumer trade union and customers’ proceedings, among others. If this occurs, we cannot guarantee that those proceedings will not have an adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition. See Note 19 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

The enforcement of the Law for the Promotion of Registered Labor and Prevention of Labor Fraud may have a material adverse effect on us.

The Law for the Promotion of Registered Labor and Prevention of Labor Fraud (Ley de Promoción del Trabajo Registrado y Prevención del Fraude Laboral), among other things, establishes a Public Record of Employers subject to Labor Sanctions (“Repsal”) and defines a series of labor and social security infringements as a result of which an employer shall be included in the Repsal.

The employers included in the Repsal are subject to sanctions, such as: the inability to access public programs, benefits, subsidies or credit from state-owned banks, the inability to enter into contracts and licenses of property owned by the Argentine government, or the inability to participate in the awarding of concessions of public services and licenses. Employers that commit the same infringement for which they were added to the Repsal within a 3-year period after the final first decision imposing sanctions cannot deduct from the Income Tax the expenses related to their employees while such employer continues to be included in the Repsal. This new regulation applies to both Telecom and its contractors and subcontractors, whose employees could initiate claims to Telecom for direct or indirect responsibility.

As of the date of this Annual Report, Telecom has no sanctions registered in the Repsal. However, if sanctions are applied in the future they could have a significant impact on Telecom’s financial position, result of operations and cash flows.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

29

A cyberattack, could adversely affect our business, balance sheet, results of operations and cash flow.

Information about security risks has increased in recent years as a result of the proliferation of new and more sophisticated technologies and also due to cyberattack activities. As part of our ongoing development and initiatives, more equipment and systems have been connected to the Internet. We also rely on digital technology including information systems to process financial and operational information. Due to the nature of our business and the greater accessibility allowed through the Internet connection, we could face an increased risk of cyberattacks. In the event of a cyberattack, we could experience an interruption of our commercial operations, material damage and loss of information; a substantial loss of income, suffering response costs and other economic losses; and it could subject us to more regulation and litigation, affecting our reputation. As a result, a cyberattack could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

In addition, during 2023, we have continued with a hybrid work mode for our employees. This new working methodology and the exponential growth of the digital collection channels, requires the implementation of several new measures in order to grant security in both virtual and on premises operations, which were all implemented successfully. Although Telecom has adopted all required measures to ensure the proper functioning of its operating systems, as well as to ensure our customers’ information, no assurance can be given that we will not be subject to any cyberattacks that could adversely affect our business and result of operations.

As of the date of this Annual Report, our insurance policy does not cover damages caused by cyberattacks and other similar events. For more information about Cybersecurity Risk Management, Strategy and Governance, see “Item 16K - Cybersecurity.”

Environmental risks, climate change, and climate change legislation or regulations restricting emissions of greenhouse gases (“GHGs”) and legal frameworks promoting an increase in the participation of energies from renewable sources could significantly impact our business and result in increased operating costs.

Extreme weather events precipitated by long-term climate change have the potential to directly damage network facilities, disrupt our ability to build and maintain portions of our network, disrupt suppliers’ ability to provide products and services required to provide reliable network coverage or cause us to incur significant expenditures to improve the climate resiliency of our infrastructure and otherwise prepare for, respond to and mitigate the effects of climate change. Any such disruption or preventive or remedial response could delay network deployment plans, interrupt service for our customers, increase our costs and have a negative effect on our operating results. In the context of long-term climate change, compliance with legal and regulatory changes relating to such climate change, including those resulting from the implementation of international treaties, may in the future increase our costs to operate and maintain our facilities, install new emission controls on our facilities or administer and manage any GHG emissions program.

In December 1993, Argentina approved the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (“UNFCCC”) through Law No. 24,295. The UNFCCC, which entered into force on March 21, 1994, deals with the stabilization of the GHGs concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system.

On February 16, 2005, the Kyoto Protocol to the UNFCCC (“Protocol”) entered into force. This Protocol, which deals with the reduction of certain GHGs (carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons and sulphur hexafluoride) in the atmosphere, was in force until 2020 as a consequence of the ratification of the Doha Amendment to the Protocol. Argentina approved the Protocol through Law No. 25,438 on June 20, 2001, and the Doha Amendment through Law No. 27,137 on April 29, 2015.

The 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference adopted by consensus the Paris Agreement, which is known to be the successor of the Protocol. The agreement deals with GHG emission reduction measures, targets to limit global temperature increases and requires countries to review and “represent a progression” in their intended nationally determined contributions. Countries agreed they will aim to achieve the long-term goal to limit global warming to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, and pursue efforts to further limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C. On October 5, 2016, the threshold for entry into force of the Paris Agreement was achieved. International treaties together with increased public awareness related to climate change may result in increased regulation to reduce or mitigate GHG emissions. Under Federal Law No. 27,270, dated September 1, 2016, Argentina approved the Paris Agreement.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

30

Furthermore, Argentine Law No. 26,190, as amended and complemented by Law No. 27,191 and its implementing decrees, established a legal framework which promotes an increase in the participation of energies from renewable sources in Argentina’s electricity market.

Under Law No. 27,191, by December 31, 2017, 8% of the electric energy consumed must come from renewable sources, reaching 20% by December 31, 2025. It sets five stages to achieve the final goal: (i) 8% by December 31, 2017; (ii) 12% by December 31, 2019; (iii) 16% by December 31, 2021; (iv) 18% by December 31, 2023; and (v) 20% by December 31, 2025. It is within this framework that the Argentine government launched the RenovAr programs. As of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, electric energy originated from renewable sources represented 13%, 13.9% and 14.3% of the total demand, respectively, according to the data released by the Argentine Government.

More stringent environmental regulations can result in the imposition of costs associated with GHG emissions, either through environmental agency requirements relating to mitigation initiatives or through other regulatory measures such as GHG emissions taxation and market creation of limitations on GHG emissions that have the potential to increase our operating costs. Revenue generation and strategic growth opportunities may also be adversely affected. Any long-term material adverse effect on the telecommunications industry due to environmental risks, climate change or climate change legislation or regulations could adversely affect the financial and operational aspects of our business, which we cannot predict with certainty as of the date of Annual Report. See “Item 4- Information on the Company-Sustainability”.

We and/or our administrators are subject to environmental and safety regulations whose non-compliance could result in increased costs and/or penalties for our administrators.

Some of the goods and facilities used in our operation are subject to federal, state and municipal environmental and safety regulations. If such rules are not adequately complied, they could result in fines, potential delays or inability to obtain authorization for our facilities and operations which could have an adverse effect in our business, but also could result in penalties for the Company’s administrators. In addition, according with global trends, new and stricter standards may be issued, or authorities may enforce or construe existing laws and regulations in a more restrictive manner, which may force us to make expenditures or incur increased costs to comply with such new rules.

An important environmental regulation to mention is the Escazú Agreement, which is legally binding and entered into force in April 2021. This agreement contemplates the rights of people in access to information, participation and justice in environmental matters and establishes guidelines for this. It defines that vulnerable groups, indigenous communities or ethnic groups must receive assistance to formulate their requests and obtain answers free of charge. Establishes the right to “be consulted”. The burden of proof shall be reversed.

Moreover, this agreement reaches private companies that perform public functions or services, as it forces companies to provide information without government mediation. It also obliges the government to facilitate access to justice for individuals and organizations of society. It establishes a period of 30 business days to respond or deliver information. The likely impact on the Company’s business from this agreement could include:

Slowdown of authorizations and work permits in public organisms.
Possible conflicts in laying new networks.
Possible conflicts with masts already placed because of non-ionizing radiation.
Possible requests for information on company processes, such as waste treatment, waste from electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE), recycling, packaging.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

31

Operational risks could adversely affect our reputation and our profitability.

Telecom faces operational risks inherent from its business, including those resulting from inadequate internal processes; fraud; employee errors or misconduct; failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations; the loss, lack of security or improper use of confidential information; improper access to corporate systems; lack of sufficient skilled resources to support the evolutions of the business; failure to document transactions properly; systems failures (including our systems, the implementation of corporate systems as identified in “Item 4—Information Technology strategy”); technical failures in the Company’s ability to provide its services, errors or failures not foreseen in the foundational projects that the Company is carrying out for updating its core systems such as turnoff legacy delays and stabilizations of deployments; inadequate management of goods and materials in disuse that could become hazardous waste; serious work accidents; failure to preserve the secrecy and content of telecommunications required by law; excessive dependence on certain providers with which a large number of operations are concentrated due to the exclusivity of the technology or service they provide, economic convenience or for strategic reasons; among others. Moreover, certain assets of the Company could be damaged by acts of vandalism or theft of components or by works of third parties on public thoroughfare that damage infrastructure that do not have a second safety path to provide the service. These events could result in direct or indirect losses, adverse legal and regulatory proceedings, the lack of more respectful and plural environments, among others.

Telecom maintains insurance policies to cover its main assets, particularly its properties. If economic and financial conditions in Argentina were to deteriorate (i.e. devaluation, inflation, etc.), the insurance coverage may not be representative of the market value of the properties which could result in losses for the Company.

Telecom also manages the use of corporate security as a means of protecting and monitoring the Company’s assets and employees.

In addition, Telecom’s suppliers of goods and services are contractually obliged to comply with laws and regulations (including tax, labor, social security, anti-corruption, money laundering standards, etc.). Additionally, our suppliers shall comply with a set of conduct standards, such as the Code of Ethics and Conduct for Third Parties, established by Telecom, and must require similar compliance by their employees and subcontractors. Despite these legal safeguards and monitoring efforts made by Telecom in relation to its suppliers, we cannot assure you that they will comply with all applicable regulations. As a result, Telecom could be adversely affected despite our contractual rights to claim for compensations for damages that they could cause to us.

Telecom has risk management practices at the highest levels including a Risk Management Committee designed to detect, manage and monitor the evolution of risks. However, the Company can give no assurances that these measures will be successful for effectively mitigating the operational risks that Telecom faces and such failures could have a material adverse effect on its results of operations and could harm its reputation.

Any failure by a strategic supplier to comply with its legal and contractual obligations could adversely affect our operations and any action or restriction by a foreign government against a strategic supplier could adversely affect our reputation.

We rely on strategic suppliers of equipment and materials to provide us with equipment and materials that we need in order to expand and to operate our business. As a result, we are exposed to risks associated with these suppliers, including restrictions of production capacity for equipment and materials, availability of equipment and materials, delays in delivery of equipment, materials or services, and price increases. If these suppliers fail to provide equipment, materials or services to us on a timely basis or otherwise in compliance with the terms of our contracts with these suppliers, we could experience disruptions or declines in the quality of our services, which could have an adverse effect on our revenues and results of operations.

Telecom’s suppliers of goods and services are contractually obliged to comply with applicable laws and regulations (including tax, labor, social security, anti-corruption, money laundering standards, etc.). Despite these legal safeguards, as well as monitoring efforts by Telecom, we cannot ensure that our suppliers will comply with all applicable standards. As a result, our financial condition and reputation could be adversely affected.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

32

The U.S. Congress and certain regulatory agencies have raised concerns about American companies purchasing equipment and software from Chinese telecommunications companies such as Huawei, one of our strategic suppliers, including concerns relating to alleged violations of intellectual property rights and potential national security risks. In November 2022, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission adopted new rules blocking the importation or sale of certain technology products that it said pose security risks to U.S. critical infrastructure, including Huawei products. The U.S. Government is likewise urging other countries to avoid the operations of Chinese companies in their territory, citing concerns regarding potential use of the equipment for espionage. We cannot predict whether additional restrictions targeting Huawei or other Chinese technology suppliers, including restrictions that would prevent us from acquiring supplies from Huawei or other Chinese technology suppliers in the future, will be adopted or predict the impact that such restrictions may have on our operations.

Restrictive covenants in Telecom’s outstanding indebtedness may restrict its ability to pursue its business strategies.

Telecom has outstanding borrowings that contain a number of restrictive covenants that impose significant operating and financial restrictions on it and may limit Telecom’s ability to engage in acts that may be in its long-term best interests. These agreements governing its indebtedness include covenants restricting, among other things, Telecom’s ability to:

incur or guarantee additional debt;
enter into sale and leaseback transactions;
create liens on its assets to secure debt; and
merge or consolidate with another person or sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its assets.

A breach of any covenant contained in the indentures governing Telecom’s notes or the agreements governing any of its other indebtedness could result in a default under those agreements. If any such default occurs, the holders of such indebtedness may elect (after the expiration of any applicable notice or grace periods) to declare all outstanding amounts, together with accrued and unpaid interest and other amounts payable thereunder, to be immediately due and payable. If any of Telecom’s debt, including its notes, were to be accelerated, its assets may not be sufficient to repay in full that debt or any other debt that may become due as a result of that acceleration.

For more information about compliance with covenants see “Item 5—Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Liquidity and Capital Resources —Borrowings Developments during 2023”.

We may be adversely affected by fluctuations in interest rates.

We are exposed to the fluctuations of the interest rates applicable to our indebtedness indexed to variable interest rates. See Note 26 to our Consolidated Financial Statements. We may also incur additional variable-rate debt in the future. Increases in interest rates on variable-rate debt would increase the Company’s interest expense, which would negatively affect our financial costs and cash flows.

We may be unable to refinance our outstanding indebtedness, or the refinancing terms may be materially less favorable than their current terms, which would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

As of December 31, 2023, our total indebtedness, including accrued interest, was P$2,128,069 million, which represents a 45.6% increase compared to our total indebtedness, including accrued interest, as of December 31, 2022. 85.6% of our debt is scheduled to mature in the next three years, including 26.5% scheduled to mature in 2024.” For more information, see “Item 5—Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Liquidity and Capital Resources —Borrowings Developments during 2023”.

There is no assurance that we will be able to extend the maturity or otherwise refinance our outstanding indebtedness, or that we may be required to agree to refinancing terms that may be materially less favorable than the terms of our current loans and notes. Any amendment to or refinancing of our indebtedness could result in higher interest rates and may require us to comply with more burdensome restrictive covenants, which may have a material adverse effect on our business, ability to meet our payment obligations, financial condition, and results of operations.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

33

If we are unable to refinance our debt in favorable terms, we may be forced to reduce or delay capital expenditures or research and development expenditures, seek additional equity capital, restructure our debt, curtail or eliminate our cash dividend to stockholders, or sell assets. Non-payment of our obligations or any other default under any of our debt instruments could, in turn, result in a default and acceleration of our other outstanding debt obligations, which would have a further material adverse effect on our business, ability to meet our payment obligations, financial condition, and results of operations. See “Item 3—Key Information—Risk Factors—Devaluation of the Argentine Peso and foreign exchange restrictions may adversely affect our results of operations, our capital expenditures and our ability to service our liabilities and pay divide” and Notes 13 and 26 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Risks Relating to Telecom Argentina’s Shares and ADSs

The New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) and/or the Buenos Aires Stock Exchange (by delegated authority of BYMA) may suspend trading and/or delist Telecom’s ADSs and Class B common shares, respectively, upon occurrence of certain events relating to Telecom’s financial situation.

The NYSE and/or the BYMA may suspend and/or cancel the listing of Telecom’s ADSs and Class B common shares, respectively, in certain circumstances, including upon the occurrence of certain events relating to Telecom’s financial situation. For example, the NYSE may decide such suspension or cancellation if Telecom’s equity becomes negative.

The NYSE may in its sole discretion determine on an individual basis the suitability for continued listing of an issuer in the light of all pertinent facts. Some of the factors mentioned in the NYSE Listed Company Manual, which may subject a company to suspension and delisting procedures, include: “unsatisfactory financial conditions and/or operating results,” “inability to meet current debt obligations or to adequately finance operations,” and “any other event or condition which may exist or occur that makes further dealings or listing of the securities on the NYSE inadvisable or unwarranted in the opinion of NYSE”.

We cannot assure you that the NYSE and/or BYMA will not commence any suspension or delisting procedures in light of Telecom’s financial situation, including if Telecom’s equity becomes negative. A delisting or suspension of trading of Telecom’s ADSs or Class B common shares by the NYSE and/or BYMA, respectively, could adversely affect Telecom’s results of operations and financial conditions and cause the market value of Telecom’s ADSs and Class B common shares to decline.

Under Argentine corporate law, shareholder rights may be fewer or less well defined than in other jurisdictions.

Our corporate affairs are governed by our bylaws and by Argentine corporate law, which differ from the corporate regulatory framework that would apply if we were incorporated in a jurisdiction in the United States (such as Delaware or New York), or in other jurisdictions outside Argentina. Thus, your rights under Argentine corporate law to protect shareholders’ interests relating to actions by our Board of Directors may be fewer and less well defined than under the laws of those other jurisdictions. Although insider trading and price manipulation are illegal under Argentine law, the Argentine securities markets may not be as highly regulated or supervised as the U.S. securities markets or markets in some of the other jurisdictions. In addition, rules and policies against self-dealing and regarding the preservation of shareholder interests may be less well defined and enforced in Argentina than in the United States, or other jurisdictions outside Argentina, putting holders of our Shares and ADSs at a potential disadvantage.

Changes in Argentine tax laws may adversely affect the tax treatment of our Shares and/or the ADSs.

In 2013, 2017 and 2018, the Argentine legislature modified the Argentine income tax law in a way that impacted the income tax treatment of income derived from the sale, exchange or other disposition of shares and other equity interest (including ADSs), bonds and other securities of Argentine companies. Some of these modifications lead to potentially varying treatment depending on factors such as whether the transaction involved an Argentine non-resident and the source of income. For more information see “Item 10 Additional Information – Taxation”.

Consequently, holders of our Class B Shares, including in the form of ADSs, are encouraged to consult their tax advisors as to the particular Argentine income tax consequences of owning our Shares or the ADSs. There can be no assurances regarding the impact of any future modifications to Argentine income tax law on the tax treatment of our Shares and/or the ADSs.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

34

Our shareholders may be subject to liability under Argentine law for certain votes of their securities.

Under Argentine law, a shareholder’s liability for losses of a company is limited to the value of his or her shareholdings in the company. However, shareholders who have a conflict of interest with us and who do not abstain from voting at the respective shareholders’ meeting may be liable for damages to us, but only if the transaction would not have been approved without such shareholders’ votes. Furthermore, shareholders who willfully or negligently vote in favor of a resolution that is subsequently declared void by a court as contrary to the law or our bylaws may be held jointly and severally liable for damages to us or to other third parties, including other shareholders.

The price of our Class B Shares and the ADSs may fluctuate substantially, and your investment may decline in value.

The trading price of our Class B Shares is likely to be highly volatile and may be subject to wide fluctuations in response to factors, many of which are beyond our control. The market price of our ADSs increased by approximately 39% in 2023, increased by approximately 7% in 2022 and decreased by 22% in 2021. These fluctuations in value have been largely attributed to Argentina’s most recent macroeconomic crisis and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The stock markets in general have experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations that have often been unrelated or disproportionate to the operating performance of the companies involved. We cannot assure you that trading prices and valuations will be sustained. These broad market and industry factors may materially adversely affect the market price of our Shares and the ADSs, regardless of our operating performance. Market fluctuations, as well as general political and economic conditions in the markets in which we operate, such as recession or currency exchange rate fluctuations, may also adversely affect the market price of our Shares and the ADSs, also affecting our estimates of recoverability of our long live assets. In particular, currency fluctuations could impact the value of an investment in Telecom Argentina. Although Telecom Argentina’s ADSs listed on the New York Stock Exchange are U.S. dollar-denominated securities, they do not eliminate the currency risk associated with an investment in an Argentine company.

Future sales of substantial amounts of Telecom Argentina Class B Shares and ADSs, or the perception that such future sales may occur, may depress the price of Telecom Argentina Class B Shares and ADSs.

Following periods of volatility in the market price of a company’s securities, that company may often be subject to securities class-action litigation. This kind of litigation may result in substantial costs and a diversion of management’s attention and resources, which would have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Restrictions on transfers of foreign exchange and the repatriation of capital from Argentina may impair your ability to receive dividends and distributions on, and the proceeds of any sale of the Class B Shares underlying the ADSs.

On September 1, 2019, the Argentine government issued Executive Decree No. 609/19 (as amended) which, inter alia, reinstated certain foreign currency exchange restrictions, most of which had been progressively repealed as from 2015. Decree No. 609/19 was further regulated, amended and complemented by several regulations issued by the BCRA (included, but not limited to, Communication “A” 6844, as further amended, supplemented and restated). Since then, the Argentine government implemented monetary and foreign exchange control measures that included restrictions on the transfer of funds abroad, including dividends, without prior approval by the BCRA or fulfillment of certain requirements.

In line with the restrictions that were in place in the past, the BCRA issued new regulations setting forth certain limitations on the flow of foreign currency into and from the Argentine foreign exchange market, aimed both at generating economic stability and supporting the country’s economic recovery.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

35

On April 30, 2020, the BCRA issued Communication “A” 7001 (as amended by Communication “A” 7030 and Communication “A” 7042 and as further amended and supplemented from time to time) setting forth certain limitations on the transfer of securities into and from Argentina. Pursuant to Communication “A” 7001 access to the Argentine foreign exchange market for the purchase or transfer of foreign currency abroad (for any purpose) shall be subject to BCRA’s prior approval, if the individual or entity seeking access to the Argentine foreign exchange market has sold securities which settled in foreign currency or transferred any such securities to foreign depositaries during the immediately preceding 90 calendar days. Further, Communication “A” 7001 sets forth that the individual or entity must undertake not to perform any such sale or transfer during the succeeding 90 days after such access. In these cases, the Depositary for the ADSs may hold ADS holders’ Argentine Pesos and may cannot convert them into foreign currency.

In addition, Communication “A” 7106 placed certain restrictions on foreign exchange transactions carried out by individuals, specifically with regards to payments with credit cards in foreign currency or with debit cards made abroad. Under Communication “A” 7106, it was also established that non-residents are not allowed to sell securities executed abroad in the local stock market in exchange for foreign currency.

We cannot predict how the current restrictions on foreign transfers of funds may change after the date hereof and whether they may limit our ability to fulfill our commitments in general and, in particular, our obligations underlying the ADSs. In addition, any future adoption by the Argentine government of restrictions to the movement of capital out of Argentina may affect the ability of our foreign shareholders and holders of ADSs to obtain the full value of their Class B Shares and ADSs, and may adversely affect the market value of the ADSs.

Trading of Telecom Argentina’s Class B Shares in the Argentine securities markets is limited and could experience further illiquidity and price volatility.

Argentine securities markets are substantially smaller, less liquid and more volatile than major securities markets in the U.S. In addition, Argentine securities markets may be materially affected by developments in other emerging markets, particularly other countries in Latin America. Our Class B Shares underlying ADSs are less actively traded than securities in more developed countries and, consequently, an ADS holder may have a limited ability to sell the Class B Shares underlying ADSs upon withdrawal from the ADSs facility in the amount and at the price and time that it may desire. This limited trading market may also increase the price volatility of the Class B Shares underlying the ADSs.

Holders of ADSs may be adversely affected by currency devaluations and foreign exchange fluctuations.

If the Peso exchange rate falls relative to the U.S. dollar, the value of the ADSs and any distributions made thereon from the depositary could be adversely affected. Cash distributions made in respect of the ADSs may be received by the depositary (represented by the custodian bank in Argentina) in Pesos, which will be converted into U.S. dollars and distributed by the depositary to the holders of the American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”) evidencing those ADSs if in the judgment of the depositary such amounts may be converted on a reasonable basis into U.S. dollars and transferred to the United States on a reasonable basis, subject to such distribution being impermissible or impracticable with respect to certain ADR holders. In addition, the depositary will incur foreign currency conversion costs (to be borne by the holders of the ADRs) in connection with the foreign currency conversion and subsequent distribution of dividends or other payments with respect to the ADSs.

The relative volatility and illiquidity of the Argentine securities markets may substantially limit your ability to sell the Class B Shares underlying the ADSs on the BYMA at the price and time desired by the shareholder.

Investing in securities that trade in emerging markets, such as Argentina, often involves greater risk than investing in securities of issuers in the United States, and such investments are generally considered to be more speculative in nature. The Argentine securities market is substantially smaller, less liquid, more concentrated and can be more volatile than major securities markets in the United States, and is not as highly regulated or supervised as some of these other markets. There is also significantly greater concentration in the Argentine securities market than in major securities markets in the United States. The ten largest companies in terms of market capitalization represented approximately 65% of the aggregate market capitalization of the BYMA as of December 31, 2023. Accordingly, although shareholders are entitled to withdraw the Class B Shares underlying the ADSs from the depositary at any time, the ability to sell such shares on the BYMA at a price and time shareholders might want may be substantially limited.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

36

We are traded on more than one market and this may result in price variations; in addition, investors may not be able to easily move shares for trading between such markets.

Trading in the Class B Shares underlying ADSs or ADSs in the United States and Argentina, respectively, will use different currencies (U.S. dollars on the NYSE and Pesos on the BYMA), and take place at different times (resulting from different trading platforms, different time zones, different trading days and different public holidays in the United States and Argentina). The trading prices of the Class B Shares underlying ADSs on these two markets may differ due to these and other factors. Any decrease in the price of the Class B Shares underlying ADSs on the BYMA could cause a decrease in the trading price of the ADSs on the NYSE. Investors could seek to sell or buy the Class B Shares underlying ADSs to take advantage of any price differences between the markets through a practice referred to as “arbitrage”. Any arbitrage activity could create unexpected volatility in both our share prices on one exchange, and the ADSs available for trading on the other exchange. In addition, holders of ADSs will not be immediately able to surrender their ADSs and withdraw the underlying Class B Shares for trading on the other market without effecting necessary procedures with the depositary. This could result in time delays and additional cost for holders of ADSs.

As a foreign private issuer, we will not be subject to U.S. proxy rules and will be exempt from filing certain reports under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

As a foreign private issuer, we are exempt from the rules and regulations under the Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”) related to the furnishing and content of proxy statements, and our officers, directors, and principal shareholders are exempt from the reporting and short-swing profit recovery provisions contained in Section 16 of the Exchange Act. In addition, we are not required under the Exchange Act to file annual and current reports and financial statements with the SEC as frequently or as promptly as domestic companies whose securities are registered under the Exchange Act, and we are generally exempt from filing quarterly reports with the SEC under the Exchange Act.

In addition, if a majority of our directors or executive officers are U.S. citizens or residents, we will lose our foreign private issuer status and we will fail to meet additional requirements necessary to avoid such loss. Although we have elected to comply with certain U.S. regulatory provisions, our loss of foreign private issuer status would make such provisions mandatory for us. The regulatory and compliance costs to us under U.S. securities laws as a U.S. domestic issuer may be significantly higher for us. If we are not a foreign private issuer, we will be required to file periodic reports and registration statements on U.S. domestic issuer forms with the SEC, which are more detailed and extensive than the forms available to a foreign private issuer. We will have to present our financial statements under US GAAP and may also be required to modify certain of our policies to comply with corporate governance practices applicable to U.S. domestic issuers. Such conversion and modifications will involve additional costs. In addition, we may lose our ability to rely upon exemptions from certain corporate governance requirements on U.S. stock exchanges that are available to foreign private issuers.

If we do not file or maintain a registration statement and no exemption from the Securities Act of 1933 (“Securities Act”) registration is available, U.S. holders of ADSs may be unable to exercise preemptive rights granted to our holders of Class B Shares underlying ADSs.

Under the GCL, if we issue new shares as part of a capital increase, our shareholders may have the right to maintain their existing ownership percentage in the Company through the subscription of a proportional number of shares of the same class in case the capital increase is made in shares of all four of our classes of shares in their respective proportions, or through the subscription of a proportional number of the shares of the class being issued if the relative proportion among the four classes is not respected. Rights to subscribe for shares in these circumstances are known as preemptive rights. In addition, shareholders are entitled to the right to subscribe for the unsubscribed shares remaining at the end of a preemptive rights offering on a pro rata basis, known as accretion rights.

According to our Bylaws, in the case of a capital increase through the issuance of all four of our classes of common stock (Class A Shares, Class B Shares, Class C Shares and Class D Shares), accretion rights of the holders of each class shall be limited to the shares of the same class for which there has been no subscription. Also if, after accretion rights have been exercised within the Class B Shares and Class C Shares, there are any unsubscribed shares, such unsubscribed Class B Shares or Class C Shares may be subscribed by the shareholders of the rest of our classes of common stock, with no distinction, in proportion to the shares of common stock for which such shareholder has subscribed on such occasion.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

37

Upon the occurrence of any future increase in our Class B Shares, U.S. persons (as defined in Regulation S under the Securities Act) holding our Class B Shares underlying ADSs or ADSs may be unable to exercise preemptive and accretion rights granted to our holders of Class B Shares underlying ADSs in connection with any future issuance of our Class B Shares underlying ADSs unless a registration statement under the Securities Act is effective with respect to both the preemptive rights and the new Class B Shares underlying ADSs, or an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act is available.

We are not obligated to file or maintain a registration statement relating to any preemptive rights offerings with respect to Telecom Argentina’s Class B Shares underlying ADSs, and we cannot assure that we will file or maintain any such registration statement or that an exemption from registration will be available. Unless those Class B Shares underlying ADSs or ADSs are registered or an exemption from registration applies, a U.S. holder of Telecom Argentina’s Class B Shares underlying ADSs or ADSs may receive only the net proceeds from those preemptive rights and accretion rights if those rights can be assigned by the ADS depositary. If the rights cannot be sold, they will be allowed to lapse. Furthermore, the equity interest of holders of shares or ADSs located in the U.S. may be diluted proportionately upon future capital increases.

Our status as a foreign private issuer allows us to follow alternate standards to the corporate governance standards of the NYSE, which may limit the protections afforded to investors.

We are a “foreign private issuer” within the meaning of the NYSE corporate governance standards. Under NYSE rules, a foreign private issuer may elect to comply with the practices of its home country and not comply with certain corporate governance requirements applicable to U.S. companies with securities listed on the exchange. We currently follow certain Argentine practices concerning corporate governance and intend to continue to do so. For example, according to Argentine securities law, our audit committee, unlike the audit committee of a U.S. issuer, will only have an “advisory” and/or “supervisory” role, such as assisting our board of directors with the evaluation, the performance and independence of the external auditors and exercising the function of our internal control. Accordingly, holders of our ADSs will not have the same protections afforded to shareholders of U.S. companies that are subject to all of the NYSE corporate governance requirements.

We are organized under the laws of Argentina and holders of the ADSs may find it difficult to enforce civil liability claims against us, our directors, officers and certain experts.

We are organized under the laws of Argentina. A significant portion of our and our subsidiaries’ assets are located outside the U.S. Furthermore, almost all of our directors and officers and some advisors named in this Annual Report reside in Argentina. Investors may not be able to effect service of process within the U.S. upon such persons or to enforce against them or us in U.S. courts judgments predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the federal securities laws of the U.S. Likewise, it may also be difficult for an investor to enforce in U.S. courts judgments obtained against us or these persons in courts located in jurisdictions outside the U.S., including judgments predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the U.S. federal securities laws. It may also be difficult for an investor to bring an original action in an Argentine court predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the U.S. federal securities laws against us or these persons.

In addition, a portion of our assets is not subject to attachment or foreclosure, as they are used for the performance of the public service we provide. In accordance with Argentine law, as interpreted by the Argentine courts, assets which are necessary for the provision for an essential public service may not be attached, whether preliminarily or in aid of execution.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

38

Prior to any enforcement in Argentina, a judgment issued by a U.S. court will be subject to the requirements of 517 through 519 of the Argentine Federal Civil and Commercial Procedure Code if enforcement is sought before federal courts or courts with jurisdiction in commercial matters of the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires. Those requirements are: (1) the judgment, which must be valid and final in the jurisdiction where rendered, was issued by a competent court in accordance with the Argentine principles regarding international jurisdiction and resulted from a personal action, or an in rem action with respect to personal property which was transferred to Argentine territory during or after the prosecution of the foreign action; (2) the defendant against whom enforcement of the judgment is sought was personally served with the summons and, in accordance with due process of law, was given an opportunity to defend against foreign action; (3) the judgment must be valid in the jurisdiction where rendered, and its authenticity must be established in accordance with the requirements of Argentine law; (4) the judgment does not violate the principles of public policy of Argentine law; and (5) the judgment is not contrary to a prior or simultaneous judgment of an Argentine court. Any document in a language other than Spanish, including, without limitation, the foreign judgment and other documents related thereto, requires filing with the relevant court of a duly legalized translation by a sworn public translator into the Spanish language.

CVH, and through CVH, GC Dominio S.A. (“GC Dominio”), have the ability to determine the outcome of any shareholder decision relating to significant matters affecting us.

CVH owns Class D Shares representing 28.16% of Telecom Argentina’s total capital stock. GC Dominio owns 26.44% of the total capital stock of CVH, which represents 64.24% of the voting stock and votes of CVH. Fintech Telecom LLC (Fintech or FTL) owns Class A Shares representing 20.83% of the total capital stock of Telecom Argentina, and additionally owns Class B Shares in the form of ADSs representing 9.2% of total stock of Telecom Argentina.

On April 15, 2019, FTL, CVH and VLG Argentina (currently merged and absorbed by CVH) entered into the Voting Trust Agreement (as defined below) pursuant to which FTL and VLG Argentina contributed certain shares to the Voting Trust (as defined below). Except in respect of certain veto matters, the co-trustee appointed by CVH must vote all the shares contributed to the Voting Trust on all matters presented for vote generally to Telecom Argentina stockholders, in the same manner that CVH votes its shares in Telecom Argentina or as instructed by CVH. For more information about the Voting Trust, see “Item 7—Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—Major Shareholders—Telecom Shareholders’ Agreement”.

Through its ownership of Telecom Argentina Class D Shares and pursuant to the arrangements resulting from the Telecom Shareholders’ Agreement and the Voting Trust, CVH, as a general matter, has the ability to determine the outcome of any action requiring our shareholders’ approval (except for veto matters). In addition, our bylaws provide Class A and Class D Shares, and the directors appointed by Class A and D Shares, with veto powers, with respect to certain matters relating to us. See “Item 7—Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—Major Shareholders—Telecom Shareholders’ Agreement”.

We conducted transactions with the shareholders of Nortel and/or Sofora, including Fintech and its affiliates in the past, and with CVH and its affiliates as from January 1, 2018. Certain decisions concerning our operations or financial structure may present conflicts between our interests and those of our shareholders.

Nevertheless, all of our related-party transactions are made on an arm’s-length basis. Related-party transactions involving Telecom Argentina that exceed 1% of its shareholders’ equity are subject to a prior approval process established by Law No. 26,831, Telecom’s Bylaws and the Rules of the Executive Committee to verify that the agreement could reasonably be considered to be in accordance with normal and habitual market practice. See “Item 7—Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—Related Party Transactions”.

PART I - ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

39

ITEM 4.   INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

INTRODUCTION

The Company

Telecom Argentina was created by Decree No. 60/90 of the PEN dated January 5, 1990, and incorporated as “Sociedad Licenciataria Norte S.A.” on April 23, 1990. In November 1990, its legal name was changed to “Telecom Argentina STET-France Telecom S.A.” and on February 18, 2004, it was changed to “Telecom Argentina S.A.”

Telecom Argentina is organized as a corporation (sociedad anónima) under Argentine law. The duration of Telecom Argentina is 99 years from the date of registration with the IGJ (July 13, 1990). Telecom Argentina conducts business under the commercial name “Telecom”.

On January 1, 2018, the transfer of Cablevisión’s operations to Telecom Argentina took place. As a result, the Merger between Telecom Argentina and Cablevisión became effective, and on that date Telecom assumed Cablevisión’s then existing operations.

We are one of the largest private-sector companies in Argentina in terms of revenues, net income, capital expenditures and number of employees. In terms of customers, we are one of the largest telecommunications, cable television and data transmission service providers in Argentina and one of the largest cable television services providers across Latin America. Additionally, we are an important Multiple Systems Operator (“MSO”, a company that owns multiple cable systems in different locations under the control and management of a single, common organization) in Argentina in terms of customers.

We offer our customers “quadruple play” services, combining mobile telephony services, cable television services, Internet services and fixed telephony services. We also provide Fintech Services, other telephone-related services such as international long-distance and wholesale services, data transmission and IT solutions outsourcing and we install, operate and develop cable television and data transmission services. We provide our services in Argentina (mobile, cable television, Internet, fixed and data services, among others), Paraguay (mobile, Internet, satellite TV services, among others), Uruguay (cable television services), the United States (fixed wholesale services) and Chile (cybersecurity services and products).

In 2023, our revenues amounted to P$2,059,101 million, our net loss amounted to P$249,687 million, our Adjusted EBITDA (see the purpose of use of Adjusted EBITDA and reconciliation of net income to Adjusted EBITDA in “Item 5—Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—(A) Consolidated Results of Operations—Adjusted EBITDA”) amounted to P$579,396 million and we had total assets of P$5,477,603 million.

The SEC maintains an internet site (http://www.sec.gov) that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC. Telecom Argentina’s telephone number is 54-11-4968-4000, and its principal executive offices are located in Gral. Hornos 690, (C1272ACK) Buenos Aires, Argentina. Our internet address is https://institucional.telecom.com.ar. The contents of our website and other websites referred to herein are not part of this Annual Report.

Our authorized agent in the United States for SEC reporting purposes is Puglisi & Associates, 850 Library Avenue, Suite 204, P.O. Box 885, Newark, Delaware 19711.

Subsidiaries

As of December 31, 2023, Telecom Argentina’s subsidiaries were Núcleo and its subsidiaries, PEM, Cable Imagen, Televisión Dirigida, Adesol, AVC Continente Audiovisual, Inter Radios, Telecom Argentina USA Inc., Personal Smarthome and its subsidiary, Micro Sistemas, Opalker and its subsidiary, NYSSA and Micro Fintech Holding. The Company has no significant subsidiaries.

For further information on our subsidiaries, see Exhibit 8.1 to this Annual Report.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

40

Significant 2023 Events

Acquisition of OPH – Joint Venture

On April 24, 2023, the Company entered into a share subscription agreement, whereby we subscribed 1,000 Class B common shares, entitled to one vote per share, of OPH, representing 50% of its capital stock, as well as an agreement of joint corporate governance of OPH and its subsidiaries, with the other shareholder.

OPH, a company incorporated in the state of Delaware, USA, holds a 100% equity interest in Open Pass S.A.U. (“Open Pass”), a company that provides computer services related to software development and maintenance, with which Micro Sistemas holds an agreement for the use and development of the digital wallet platform.

For further information, see Note 28 of our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Financial events

On October 17, 2023, the Company submitted two new tranches (5 and 6) under the IDB loan for a total of US$120 million (equivalent to P$42,012 million at transaction date), net of issuance expenses for P$866 million at transaction date. The funds were used to pay for the 5G Spectrum described below.

For further information about our borrowing, see Note 13 of our Consolidated Financial Statements and “Item 5—Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Liquidity and Capital Resources —Borrowings Developments during 2023”.

Reliable and Intelligent Telecommunications Services (STeFI, for its Spanish acronym)

On October 3, 2023, ENACOM notified Telecom of its prequalification to participate in the 5G spectrum Auction bidding process and, on October 24, 2023, Telecom was awarded Lot 2 (3,400-3,500 MHz Band) for having submitted the highest bid, equivalent to US$350 million. On the same day, ENACOM issued the administrative act related to the allocation of frequency bands to the awardees.

For further information, see Note 2 of our Consolidated Financial Statements and “Item 4—Information on the Company—Regulatory Authorities and Framework— SPECTRUM 5G”.

THE BUSINESS

The Executive Committee and the CEO have a strategic and operational vision of Telecom as a single business unit in Argentina that is consistent with the current regulatory context of the converged ICT services industry. The Executive Committee and the CEO receive periodic economic and financial information of Telecom and its subsidiaries treating all operations as a single segment. On the basis of this information, they assess the evolution of business as a single unit of generation of results, managing resources accordingly to achieve the objectives. Under applicable accounting principles (provided by IFRS Accounting Standards 8), it was defined that the Company has a single segment of operations in Argentina.

Also, Telecom carries out activities abroad (Paraguay, Uruguay, the United States and Chile), and renders Fintech Services. These operations are not analyzed as separate segments by the Executive Committee and the CEO, who analyze the consolidated information of Telecom and its subsidiaries in Argentina and abroad, taking into account that activities of foreign companies and Fintech Services are not significant for Telecom. For a breakdown of total revenues by category of activity, please see “Item 5 – Operating and Financial Review and Prospects”. For more information, see Note 1.b) of our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Main Products and Services

At Telecom, we provide connectivity inside and outside the home entertainment experiences, and technological solutions for industries and government.

To achieve this, we use the latest available technologies for our networks, systems, and business models, partnering with renowned global companies.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

41

Our focus remains on extending and enhancing our fixed and mobile networks and expanding Broadband coverage and capacity. We also seek new businesses, with a digital platform development model that allows us to maximize opportunities across the region.

In line with our vision of innovation and diversification, we explore new business opportunities and want to go beyond connectivity and accompany the challenges of the digital economy. We intend to become a relevant player in the Latin American financial industry by developing products that generate monetization in the digital ecosystem, leveraging 5G and positioning ourselves regionally. With new businesses such as IoT, Fintech Services, cybersecurity, entertainment, and smart home, among others, we are committed to constant innovation to offer comprehensive solutions and adapt to changing market demands.

As of December 31, 2023 we offered our customers a diverse range of services, including:

Mobile Telephony Services: Services offered under the brands “Personal” for individuals and “Telecom” for the corporate services, including voice communications and high-speed mobile Internet, among others; and sale of mobile communication devices (handsets, modems MiFi and wingles, smart watches), which we have the ability to finance through alliances with certain financial entities. The services are supported in the different technologies of the mobile network (4G/5G);
Internet Services: High-speed cable modem, Fiber to the Home and ADSL Internet services offered under the brands “Personal” for individuals and “Telecom” for the corporate services. During 2023, such services provide speeds for up from 50 MB to 1,000 MB;
Cable Television Services: Cable television services involve the operation of cable television networks installed in different locations in Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay. Through Flow, the Company seeks to consolidate itself as an “entertainment meeting point”, offering the possibility of accessing a platform with live content. The services provided by Flow include TV series, films and documentaries on demand and exclusive co-productions, as well as music and gaming. Flow also integrates OTT services allowing the customer to have direct access to other content providers such as Netflix, Paramount +, Prime Video, Disney +, Star + and YouTube. In addition, we offer other a traditional service such as “Clásico”, our basic analog cable television product;
Fixed and Data Services: voice communications, supplementary services, interconnection with other operators, data services (mainly virtual private networks, dedicated transit, signal transport signals), IT solution outsourcing and advanced cybersecurity solutions, among others; and
Fintech Services: the wallet allows users to create a 100% digital account, free and in a few steps, deposit money through transfers or physical collection networks, send and receive money to other banks and/or digital wallets, recharge your cell phone or transportation cards, pay services, make payments by QR and create personalized savings goals, among other features. Additionally, Personal Pay users can apply for an international Visa prepaid card to make online and in-store purchases, subscribe to entertainment services, and withdraw money at ATMs. The card also allows access to daily benefits in supermarkets, fuel and movie tickets, among others.

ØMobile Telecommunications Services

Overview

Our mobile telecommunications service offerings in Argentina include voice communications, high-speed mobile Internet content and applications download and online streaming, among others, as well as the sale of mobile communication devices (handsets, Modems MiFi and wingles, smart watches).

As of December 31, 2023, we had approximately 21.0 million mobile customers in Argentina.

In Argentina, we provide mobile services on 850 MHz in the Northern Region and AMBA, 1,900 MHz, 700 MHz and AWS (paired frequencies in 1,700 MHz and 2,100MHz) in the whole country and 900 MHz and 2,600 MHz assigned by localities.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

42

In October 2023, with a US$350 million investment, we acquired a 100 MHz block in the 3.500 MHz spectrum band that will allow us to expand the 5G networks. This is an important milestone to enable the full potential of 5G and consolidates the constant evolution of our infrastructure.

Residential and Corporate Services

We offer mobile telecommunication services to residential and corporate customers through a variety of flexible options. These options include prepaid, post-paid and “Abono Fijo” (fixed subscription) (mixed) plans.

Prepaid Plans. Under prepaid plans, customers pay in advance for services, using prepaid credit. Since there are no monthly bills, prepaid plans allow customers to communicate with maximum flexibility while maintaining control over their consumption. Prepaid credit can be purchased through prepaid cards or virtual credit on our website, by phone, at ATMs and drugstores, or through authorized agents. Our mobile telecommunication customers may browse the Internet, make and receive local, national and international calls and buy multimedia content. We offer a variety of “packs” which enable customers to use the abovementioned services at lower prices. These packs may include a fixed amount of minutes to make national or international calls, SMSs, and a quota of megabytes to access the Internet, among other services.
Post-Paid Plans. Under post-paid plans, customers pay a monthly fee for a particular plan, plus charges for additional services not included in that plan. Most of the plans we offer include a quota of megabytes for browsing the Internet and unlimited airtime for on-network calls and SMS. Depending on the price, some plans include an amount of free seconds or unlimited airtime for off-network calls. Once the included seconds have been used, customers can continue using the mobile service at a set price per second. Customers can also buy packs of additional megabytes to continue browsing the Internet after they have used the megabytes included in their monthly plan. The charges for additional airtime, megabytes or multimedia content, are added to the following month’s bill. Under post-paid plans, we also offer M2M plans, based on the IoT concept, which refers to the digital interconnection of everyday objects with the Internet, and are specially focused on business customers. These plans include solutions such as geolocation and fleet monitoring, refrigeration control, information security solutions, sales management solutions, and cloud solutions for information storage and protection.
Fixed Subscription (Abono Fijo). Under the Fixed Subscription (Abono Fijo) plans, a customer pays a set monthly bill. As in post-paid plans, most of these plans include a quota of megabytes for browsing the Internet, unlimited airtime for on-net and off-net calls, SMS and a fixed amount of credit that can be used to buy packs or multimedia contents. Once the prepaid seconds have been used or the Internet quota has been met, the subscriber can obtain additional credit by recharging its line through the prepaid system.

Our strategy during 2023 focused on continuing leading mobile service, promoting the consumption of high-speed services by providing upgrades and improving the experiences of certain customers, and more generally addressing the needs of small, medium and large customers and continuing to grow in business of Digital Solutions (Cloud & Infrastructure, Datacenter, Cybersecurity and IoT).

The main developments in our residential and corporate services during 2023 were the following:

we offered mobile services ranging from prepaid plans to postpaid plans, and between three Gigas and 25 Gigas;
we focused on the development of convergent offers for our customers, offering additional bonuses upon the purchase of various services, to increase customer loyalty. We extended the initiative to corporate customers, seeking to increase services convergence;
we continued adding benefits for mobile and convergent subscription customers; and

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

43

we continued working in international services while focusing on increasing the efficiency of international traffic management, minimizing the cost of the service to sustain the simplification and evolution of the roaming offer and achieving higher quality. We added higher national and international roaming data quotas for America and Europe to our mobile plans and made International Agreements for 5G, with the objective of covering 52% of Data Usage Roamers. The number of clients that used roaming reached 3 million.

Wholesale Services

Our mobile telecommunications infrastructure also enables us to provide the wholesale services summarized below.

International Business. During 2022 and 2023, there was a notable recovery in international travel, reflecting strong pent-up demand, as well as the relaxation or lifting of travel restrictions.

In order to boost the profitability of the Roaming business, we generated supply conditions to stimulate greater consumption, and we optimized costs and maximized the capture of traffic from foreign visitors for Roaming generated on Telecom’s network. In addition, we continued to launch new services to improve the user experience and increase consumption.

In relation to the A2P (application to person) business, we renewed the business model by which integrated aggregators send the Company’s domestic and international A2P traffic, optimized monetization conditions, and entered into new agreements. In addition, we renewed our firewall service (a system designed to block unauthorized access) to secure our network and protect our customers.

Domestic Business. The revenues and costs of Telecom’s wholesale businesses with domestic operators are mainly related to interconnection traffic charges (call origination/termination, long distance transport and transit, both on the mobile network and on the fixed network); sale of interconnection service resources, sale of infrastructure to Large Groups (Datacenter Services, Mobile Backhaul, Links, etc.), national roaming, and infrastructure sharing (RAN sharing and lease of conventional and non-conventional infrastructure sites, among others).

Network and Equipment

In terms of infrastructure, during 2023 we continued to improve the services we provide by deploying the 4G / LTE network, together with the technological reconversion of our 2G / 3G networks to 4G and LTE, and the deployment of fiber optics to connect homes with Broadband, which also had an impact on fixed and data network. This allowed us to stand out from our competitors, significantly improving the NPS of our customers.

The deployment of 4G/LTE has achieved a coverage of 97% of the urban population across 2,032 localities as of December 31, 2023. Furthermore, we have reached a 98% coverage of the population in major cities of Argentina, as of the mentioned date. Customers accessing our 4G network experience enhanced service quality, enjoying speeds of up to 35 Mbps and, approximately 66% of calls are now made using VoLTE, a technology that enables voice calls over the 4G network, resulting in significant improvements in audio and video quality.

In addition, we have continued the deployment of mobile site connectivity to enhance quality and capacity, replacing radio links with high-capacity fiber optic connections.

Furthermore, the initiative to connect remote and low-density areas through satellite backhaul remains ongoing.

Regarding 5G, we continued the deployment of Dynamic Spectrum Sharing (“DSS”) technology, which is now present at 311 sites in various cities such as Buenos Aires, Rosario and Mar del Plata. In addition, we are actively driving the industry's evolution to provide customers with the latest in mobile connectivity technology. By the end of 2023, and through the Argentine government-launched tender, we have acquired spectrum that will accelerate the growth of our 5G service. Currently, we have reached 68 sites, with an anticipated addition of 200 more in 2024.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

44

Competition

The market for residential, corporate and wholesale mobile telecommunications services in Argentina is characterized by intense competition. Operators are free from regulation to determine the pricing of services, except that ENACOM sets prices for wholesale local interconnection services. There are currently three mobile operators offering nationwide service. Telecom, Telefónica Móviles Argentina and América Móvil. With the exception of the price regulation provided by Decree No. 690/2020, which is currently suspended in accordance with a precautionary measure applied for by the Company, the LAD establishes free prices for all services, except for interconnection services when they are established by ENACOM. For more information, see “Item 4 —Regulatory Authorities and Framework— Decree No. 690/20 - Amendment to the LAD - Controversy”.

ØInternet Services

Overview

We provide Broadband Internet services in Argentina. Broadband Internet access, often shortened to “Broadband,” is high data rate Internet access. Broadband can be delivered through four technologies: cable modem (HFC), ADSL, optic fiber (FTTC and FTTH) and wireless; being cable Modem and ADSL the most widely used. We market our services through ADSL, HFC and FTTH technologies.

During 2023, we continued promoting Broadband offers, providing greater speed to customers that have technical availability to use it.

With respect to access networks, our strategy aims to satisfy the rising Broadband demand, mainly for downloading videos and multimedia content from the Internet. In this respect, we intend to continue the expansion of our access fiber optics infrastructure, using different modalities and technologies, which have been optimized based on demand of services provided and different geographic locations.

During 2023, we continued deploying our FTTH network both in greenfield areas (an area where we have not deployed any of our technology networks: Copper, HFC or FTTH) and in the reconversion of brownfield areas (an area where we have network deployment), granting more customers access to ultra-high internet velocity with speeds of 1000MB and also upgrading the customer base average speed by migrating customers to our HFC and FTTH network (i.e., technologies that replace copper with fiber optics in different points of the transmission network). As of December 31, 2023, the number of customers with access FTTH technology grew 87% compared to December 31, 2022.

Residential and Corporate Services

As of December 31, 2023, we had approximately 4.1 million Internet customers in Argentina.

During 2023, we continued with the reconversion of Telecom’s fixed Internet network, expanding in 2023 by 14K FTTH blocks in new locations and/or XDSL / HFC 1W and 1K FTTH blocks in HFC 2W (Overlay) areas. In particular, we stress the commercial deployment in areas with no Telecom presence in different cities of Mendoza and San Juan.

The migration of customers towards the best available technology (XDSL to HFC/FTTH and HFC to FTTH) and the selective shutdown of obsolete networks continued, seeking efficiency and improving customer service.

The internet connectivity products we offer through the Personal and Telecom brands are specially tailored to the needs of each residential or corporate user, and include specific solutions such as virtual private network services, traditional Internet protocol (“IP”) links and corporate products that offer additional services. We offer Internet products ranging from 50MB to 1,000 MB.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

45

Customers with a service of 100 MB or more represent 85% and 79% of the total customer base as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Within this range, customers have contracted service plans of 100 MB, 300 MB, 600 MB and 1,000 MB which, as of December 31, 2023 amount to 1.6 million, 1.6 million, 0.2 million and 0.1 million, respectively, positioning our “Personal” brand as the technological benchmark brand of the industry.

Additionally, we offer international IP access through well-known global Backbone providers.

We launched Personal Wifi Zone in May 2022, a connectivity experience available to our customers with Personal internet at home, which is the largest WiFi network in Argentina. Personal WiFi Zone grew by 200% during 2023 and currently has a coverage of more than 1.9 million locations distributed throughout the country. The service is used by 50 thousand customers on a monthly basis.

Network and Equipment

In order to continue bringing fiber optics closer to customers, we consolidated the deployment of FTTH networks, substantially improving the possibility of offering high-speed services. This rollout encompassed both residential and corporate customers, new neighborhoods, gated communities, skyscrapers, and shopping malls.

With respect to HFC networks, investments were focused on increasing the capacity of existing networks to keep up with our customers’ traffic demand by reducing service areas and increasing upstream capacity. In addition, the deployment of a new FTTH network superimposed on the HFC network continued, seeking to connect the new customers to this new network. In this way, the traffic in the HFC network is relieved and better services are provided to our customers.

In addition to the renewal of the access network described above, the transformation process of the transport network continued, allowing not only greater capacities, but also greater operational efficiency and scalability.

Competition

We face nationwide competition in the Internet service market in Argentina from Telefónica, AMX Argentina (commercially known as Claro), Gigared and Telecentro (providing a triple-play offer), among others. During 2023, Telefónica and AMX continued their investments for the construction of their fixed FTTH networks, increasing their penetration and ability to serve households in different areas of the country. This has driven us to be more competitive and presented a challenge for us as new players, with international support, we have aggressively entered the market. Our data services business faces competition from Telefónica, AMX Argentina and from several providers of niche data services such as Cirion Technologies, IPlan and others.

ØCable Television Services

Overview

During 2023 we focused on working hard on improving the performance and stability of the different TV and streaming products, that is, improving the customer experience with our products and thus being able to improve the NPS.

During 2023 we delivered a HFC two-way network with a bandwidth capacity of more than one GHz to approximately 96% of the homes passed through our cable network (99.9% in AMBA). Through these networks, we offer additional revenue-generating services and products, such as premium services and pay-per-view.

As of December 31, 2023, we had approximately 3.1 million cable television customers in Argentina, which represented a 37% of the Argentine market share for cable television services.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

46

Our Cable Television Networks and Operating Regions

As of December 31, 2023, our principal cable networks were located in AMBA. We also operated cable networks in other cities within the provinces of Buenos Aires, Santa Fe, Entre Ríos, Córdoba, Corrientes, Formosa, Misiones, Salta, Chaco, Neuquén, Río Negro, Mendoza and San Juan. As of December 31, 2023, Telecom’s fiber optic network covered approximately 87,200 kilometers, of which approximately 29,000 kilometers correspond to the interurban network.

Retail and Corporate Programming and Other Cable Television Services

In 2023, we continued investing significant resources to expand the variety of programming options in order to appeal to potential new customers and meet their needs. Our cable television services revenues are derived primarily from monthly subscription fees for cable service. To a lesser extent, our cable television services revenues also derived from connection fees and advertising and fees for premium and pay-per-view programming services, Flow, and video-on-demand services (VOD).

We purchase basic and premium programming from more than 70 signal providers. Programming arrangements are primarily denominated in Argentine Pesos. Fees paid to signal providers under these arrangements are linked to the growth of our cable television subscriber base and the fees charged.

Premium Services (Premium Packages)

Our customers are given the option to acquire Premium Packages not included in the basic package by paying an additional fee. These packages and services include channels in addition to those included in the basic package, provide exclusive content, and divide such content by movie genres, adult programs and sports, or a combination of these categories.

Flow and OTT Services

In order to enhance our customers’ experience while accessing our content offer, we offer a digital platform branded “Flow” that integrates television channels with On demand content. Through Flow, which uses the fastest fiber optic network in the country, our customers are able to watch television at any time and place and from any device (such as tablets, smartphones and smart TVs, among others). Flow allows us to distribute contents through an IP structure coupled with digital television quadrature amplitude modulation, which includes adequate security measures. Flow enabled our customers to use new modern functions such as lineal streaming, reverse electronic program guide, the possibility to “start over” a program, access to “video on demand”, contents and “cloud DVR” (which allows customers to save content in the provider’s database instead of the customers digital recorder).

Given the challenging economic context, we worked to offer a more accessible and competitive product alternative and launched Flow Flex in 2022, a 100% digital contracting plan by number of days, which adapts to today’s flexible consumption habits. There are packs of 3, 7, 15 and 30 days or a monthly subscription (Flow Flex subscription). With Flow Flex, customers can watch live TV and subscribe to Premium Packages or streaming apps. In addition, they can enjoy Flow functionalities such as pause, rewind, rewatch, record, rent movies online, and watch on two screens simultaneously. It is a digital version of Flow, which does not require decoders or technical installation and is available to all subscription TV customers. In this way, we managed to maintain Flow's market share.

Flow also offers of our customers a single platform through which they can access different OTT services. Additionally, Flow continues evolving with new facilities, innovative and quality content based on alliances with renowned national and international production companies as Disney+, Paramount+, Star+, Netflix, Prime Video and HBO Max.

Another key aspect was to continue promoting the streaming platform for live music shows and festivals and enrich the content catalog with films of high global relevance that we were able to make available to all customers almost simultaneously with their film release.

Additionally, as part of the ongoing update of devices, Flow commercially presented a self-installable set-top box with distinctive surround sound properties, and compatible with Google Assistant, integrated Chromecast, 4K resolution, HDR and Dolby Vision, among others.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

47

Competition

With respect to cable television transmission, we face competition from other cable television operators and providers of other television services, including direct broadcasting, satellite and wireless transmission services. As a result of the non-exclusive nature of our licenses, our cable systems frequently have been overbuilt by one or more competing cable networks, in addition to the satellite television service that is also available. Free broadcasting services are currently available in Argentina. In the AMBA Region, these services primarily include four privately-owned channels and their local affiliates, and one state-owned national public television network. In addition, the Argentine government has distributed digital boxes to certain sectors of the population that provide free access to certain channels in connection with the Argentine Terrestrial Digital Television System, which are also available for sale to the general public.

Paid television industry is highly fragmented, and our largest competitors are Telecentro S.A., which is focused in the AMBA Region, and DirecTV Argentina S.A. (“DirecTV”) (satellite television), present throughout the entire country. In addition, Telefónica and AMX consolidated their offer of video products together with fixed Broadband, in the context of the development of their fixed network. Telecom also considers OTT Internet video system providers such as Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video and On Video, among others, as competitors.

Among paid television systems, competition is driven primarily byprice, programming services offered, customer satisfaction; and quality of the system.

Network and Equipment

Our network’s trunk or Backbone portion in AMBA consists entirely of fiber optic cable. We built a fiber optic cable ring around the City of Buenos Aires that provides network redundancy (which helps ensure network availability in the event of a network device or path failure resulting in unavailability) and improves overall network reliability. We have deployed a similar fiber optic network architecture in other major cities.

In addition, cable television service is also provided through FTTH networks with IP technology, combining state-of-the-art networks to provide high-capacity Internet with video services through the same physical link.

ØFixed and Data Services

Overview

We offer voice communications, supplementary services, interconnection with other operators, data services (mainly virtual private networks, dedicated transit, signal transport signals), IT solution outsourcing and advanced cybersecurity solutions, among others.

Fixed and Data Services are comprised of the following:

Residential and Corporate Telephony and Smarthome Services

Basic Telephone Services. We provide Basic Telephone Services, including local, domestic and international long-distance telephone services and public telephone services. As of December 31, 2023, we had approximately 2.9 million fixed telephony lines in service, including Fibertel IP lines.
Other telephone services. We provide our customers other related supplementary services such as call waiting, call forwarding, conference calls, caller ID, voice mail, itemized billing and maintenance services.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

48

During 2023 we continued to strengthen our TOIP (fixed telephony service over IP) services and position through the evolution of the portfolio of security services solutions, together with a communication and dissemination campaign throughout the year, aiming to bring our wide range of services closer to corporate customers.

Additionally, in December 2022 we launched Smarthome, a solution designed to keep customers connected to their home at all times. The main objective is to offer peace of mind and comfort.

Our initial device is an advanced camera that allows customers to monitor their home in real time. Additionally, the camera is equipped with a proactive alert system that notifies users about specific pre-configured events. Some features that can be used from the application:

Look at every corner through a 360º movement.
Receive notifications in real time.
Store clips in the cloud to view them whenever you want.
Communicate via two-way audio.
Use night vision so you don't miss anything.

As an added value, we offer a cloud storage service of up to 14 days, available for an additional cost.

For the year ended December 31, 2023, we have sold more than 19,000 cameras, with 10,100 unique users.

Wholesale Services

During 2023, we remained one of the leading providers of wholesale telecommunications solutions for the different providers and operators in the market, including cable operators, ISPs cooperatives and other service providers. Wholesale services include:

Infrastructure services. Infrastructure services primarily refer to:

Interconnection services, which include dedicated links, layer 2 (Lan To Lan) and layer 3 (Internet Protocol Virtual Private Network).

Datacenter services, which include housing services, connections and cross-connections.

Internet services. Internet services mainly include the IP transit service. During 2023, Telecom focused most of its business on IP transit service, demanded by ISP providers to provide Internet connectivity to their customers through different market segments. This led to a significant increase in local and international bandwidth consumption.

Value Added services. Virtual Private Servers, Security, IoT, or other additional services.

International Long-Distance Service. We hold a non-expiring license to provide international telecommunications services in Argentina, including voice, data services, housing and international point-to-point leased circuits. We are connected to international telecommunications networks, mainly through various submarine fiber optic cables and VoIP technology.

Services provided in the United States. During 2023, we continued developing commercial actions aimed at increasing the profitability of wholesale products, among which are the services for OTTs. Our presence in the United States, through our subsidiary Telecom USA, has enabled us to develop links with major North American cloud content and service providers.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

49

Corporate Data Services

The data services business includes nationwide data transmission services, virtual private networks, symmetric Internet access, national and international signal transport and videoconferencing services. These services are provided mainly to corporations and governmental agencies. We also provide certain value added services, including electronic standard documents telecommunication software exchange. Our corporate data services business also includes the lease of networks to other providers, telecommunications consulting services, operation and maintenance of telecommunications systems, supply of telecommunications equipment and provision of related services. The corporate data transmission services we provide are mainly Ethernet and IP services.

We serve leading companies in the Argentine market as well as the national government, provincial governments and municipalities. These large customers demand cutting-edge technology and solutions tailored to their needs, including voice, data, Internet and Value Added Services.

In response to the constant changes demanded by the market, we maintained our strategy to position ourselves as an integrated service provider for large customers by offering convergent ICT solutions, including fixed and mobile voice, data, Internet, multimedia, datacenter and application services through sales, consulting, management and specialized and targeted post-sale customer services.

At Telecom we evolved from an ICT to a Tech-Co. We are a multi-cloud provider integrating the main carriers in our portfolio, thus complementing our own offer of DC infrastructure services. In addition, we have expanded our offer of connectivity security services towards security and user identification technologies, following the needs of our customers according to the growth of hybrid work schemes.

In terms of Cybersecurity, our proposal is based on innovative and comprehensive solutions with what we view as state-of-the-art and world class technology. We aim to provide protection of information and IT and OT (Operational Technology) infrastructure against internal and external threats, high caliber solutions designed to ensure the security, integrity and availability of IT systems to protect confidential corporate information and personal information of employees and customers in organizations (Cybersecurity Services), comprehensive solutions to achieve a secure digital transformation (Governance, Risk and Compliance) and advanced Consulting Services through qualified teams of experts who provide review and analysis of cybersecurity in organizations, network infrastructure designs, network perimeter protection, antimalware strategies, health check, hardening and best practices, thereby helping us comply with various industry standards (ISO/IEC27001/27002, PCI, among others). Furthermore, our differentiation lies in the offer of solutions designed and developed by our Software Factory, thus offering a comprehensive and personalized approach for each customer, ranging from the review and analysis of cybersecurity in their organization to the creation of solid network infrastructures.

During 2023, we have worked to position the “Ubiquo” brand regionally. In this line, the 2024 action planning responds to both brand continuity and regional positioning. Regarding the scope of the regional companies, it includes:

Ubiquo in Chile in which Telecom made a share purchase in May 2023;
Opalker with domicile in Uruguay, which has belonged to Telecom since its inception. All sales of the Ubiquo brand in the region are realized through this company.

Ubiquo brand´s vision is to strengthen the Cybersecurity business in the region, provide solutions that best adapt to customer needs, be the best option for cybersecurity talents, be the most important technological partner in Latam in business cybersecurity solutions, and promote the development of our own solutions through our Software Factory.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

50

In relation to IoT solutions, we provide the necessary technology for customers to connect to their data, applying intelligence for better and faster decision-making, helping them develop and improve the efficiency of their business. During 2022, we focused on Platforms for Industry and Utilities, IoT Connectivity (LPWAN and Managed) and Tracking (people, assets and vehicles), growing our offer. During 2023, the project was addressed to bring urban connectivity to rural areas through an innovative business model where a group of agricultural actors can create a value cluster so that together they can contribute to the creation of the LTE network and in return, Telecom returns the value invested, in valuable solutions (Cloud, Cybersecurity, IoT, Connectivity, etc.). This project not only brought the possibility of incorporating technology into agriculture, but it was also possible to connect schools, doctors, firefighters, police, people, etc.

In 2023 we continue to consolidate our offer of Hybrid Architectures, being one of the most complete in the country (public cloud, private cloud, infrastructure, colocation and applications). In this sense, we continue to strengthen strategic alliances with IBM, AWS, Google, Microsoft, Huawei and Oracle.

In addition, we continued investing in our major datacenter in the city of Pacheco, province of Buenos Aires consolidating its position as leader in the market and enhancing the level of services supplied. These investments are intended to support business growth in the next few years with the highest market standards.

Network and equipment

Our network strategy, for the medium- and long-term, focuses on satisfying the demand of the services we provide, improving our customers’ experience and promoting technology evolution.

With respect to the “core” network, we seek to continuously increase the capacities and availability of the services offered to our customers. In addition, we continued implementing the standardization of protocols and network architectures, to enhance the efficiency of our operation and maintenance, with cost reductions on those activities.

We also continue with the unification of the trunk networks, consolidating network buildings, achieving not only operational efficiency but also reducing costs, such as energy and maintenance.

Competition

As of the date of this Annual Report, the main licensees providing local and/or fixed long-distance telephone service are Telmex, AMX Argentina (commercially known as Claro), Cirion Technologies (formerly “Centurylink”, “Level 3 Communication” and “Global Crossing”), IPlan, Telecentro, Telefónica (principally in the Southern Region) and Telecom (principally in the Northern Region). Telefónica has the dominant market share for provision of telecommunications service to retail customers in the Southern Region. If our competitors increase their presence in the Northern Region, we expect that we will face additional pricing pressure and experience a slight loss in market share in the Northern Region. 

Regarding data services, our main competitors are Cirion Technologies and Edgeconnex.

In the cybersecurity vertical, Telecom's competitors are companies that have a multiproduct/multiservice offering in the cybersecurity niche, such as RAN, NeoSecure, NovaRed, Nextvision Point IT, Murc IT, and Base 4, among others. Telecom's differentiation lies in the offering of Digital Solutions. Telecom has a robust offering and a team of certified risk management specialists with international recognition. Telecom is a customer of its own solutions, demonstrating its commitment to the excellence of the services it prides itself on offering to the market and the expertise of the professional team and continuous certifications.

In terms of consulting services and risk management, Telecom competes with the Big Four consulting firms.

We are actively seeking continuous improvement to increase our market share in Argentina and establish ourselves as cybersecurity leaders.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

51

Finally, and regarding wholesale services, the main competitors in Argentina for connectivity services are Cirion Technologies (formerly “Centurylink”, “Level 3 Communication” and “Global Crossing”), Telefónica, ARSAT (a Government owned company) and Silica (Datco Group). This competition causes permanent pricing pressure and forces Telecom to deploy commercial strategies to mitigate the impact of those initiatives on its market share. On the other hand, and in relation with local interconnection traffic, ENACOM sets prices for this service.

ØSubsidiary- Micro Sistemas

Overview

Personal Pay is our digital wallet, through which people can pay, send, save and manage their money the way they want. The massive launch of the application and its functionalities took place in June 2022. The following functionalities are enabled through Personal Pay:

create a 100% digital account, free and in a few steps,
deposit money through transfers or physical collection networks,
send and receive money to/from other banks and/or digital wallets,
recharge mobile phone lines
recharge transport cards,
pay for services,
ask for a VISA Personal Pay prepaid card,
ATM withdrawal,
payments with QR,
remuneration of Balances,
sale of recharges (B2B),
QR Acceptor,
Personal Insurance,
create personalized savings goals,
ExtraPay, and
benefits and discounts in shops.

By 2023, we reached the goal of five out of ten users of the digital wallet being familiar with Personal Pay, accelerating adoption through significant improvements to the value proposition. In this process, we have positioned ourselves prominently in the prepaid card and account balance market, generating habits and frequency of use among users, and we have more than 2.0 million users.

Main products and services

Personal Pay is fully managed from the application and allows the user to clearly and easily visualize all deposits, withdrawals and transfers made. All users can access the VISA Personal Pay international prepaid card. Personal’s digital wallet offers a customizable card in physical format. In this case, users of the service are able to choose the name to be printed, as well as predefined logos that identify them.

With the prepaid card, the customer can make purchases online and in physical stores, subscribe to entertainment services and withdraw money at ATMs.

As part of its development roadmap, Personal Pay will continue to strengthen the functionalities of its application and in future versions users will have the possibility of accessing financial education and new functionalities that allow them to continue strengthening their financial inclusion.

The objective is to continue promoting financial inclusion through the fintech industry in Argentina, which is why in 2024 we expect that new solutions will be incorporated to reach segments of the population that currently do not have access.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

52

Our strategy during 2023 focused our efforts on increasing the number of transactions, frequency of use and volume, which are key elements to drive the path towards monetization. This approach translates into a notable increase in customers, with the aim of maximizing the connection between the user and the Company. We offer our users a transactional vehicle, mainly intended for payments and recharges related to the Company's products, as well as for payments in general. In addition, we offer the option of remunerating the account balances of those clients who decide to invest them.

All our commercial campaigns in Personal Pay are, and will continue to be, focused on maximizing the Telecom Ecosystem as a starting point. This strategic approach seeks to strengthen the integration and synergy between the different products and services offered within the company's digital ecosystem.

In the context of our project for the year 2024, some strategic initiatives have been outlined with the purpose of promoting the growth and strengthening of our organization. These initiatives cover different key areas, each with the objective of enhancing specific aspects of our business.

As of December 31, 2023 Personal Pay has more than 2.0 million users. These customers completed the onboarding process, have been assigned a digital wallet (CVU) and are able to operate the service.

Network and technology

Personal Pay strives to carefully balance its resources, both human and technological, seeking operational and financial efficiency. Each addition to the team is planned with the goal of proportionally increasing delivery capabilities.

Personal Pay’s software architecture and hardware requirements are designed to be highly scalable, adapting to the expected growth of the company. This strategic planning ensures a technological infrastructure that will effectively support future expansion and operations.

Furthermore, strategic investments and acquisitions are intended to align with the company's long-term vision. In our constant pursuit of strengthening internal capabilities and enhancing the value proposition, we engage in strategic partnerships and make selective acquisitions.

While a significant portion of the software is developed internally, Personal Pay acknowledges the value of technological partners. This collaboration allows leveraging the expertise of partners, strengthening the robustness, efficiency, and security of solutions. Strategic outsourcing enables Personal Pay to optimize operational efficiency and flexibility.

Ongoing engagement with suppliers and active participation in technological events are essential for Personal Pay to stay updated on the latest trends in fintech. This strategy ensures that the company is equipped with the knowledge and resources necessary to address the constantly evolving challenges of the financial market.

In summary, in its short time of existence, Personal Pay has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainable growth and continuous innovation. The comprehensive strategy addresses not only staff augmentation but also resource optimization, excellence in internal development, strategic collaboration, and adaptability to emerging technological trends. This presentation reflects Personal Pay's transparency and commitment to efficiency and excellence in all areas of its fintech business.

Competition

The fintech ecosystem in Argentina has been expanding in recent years and is one of the industries with the greatest evolution and innovation, with positive changes in consumer payment behavior. 

According to data from Chamber of Electronic Clearing (COELSA, for its acronym in Spanish), there are more than 156 million payment accounts in the country, of which 34 million belong to digital wallets (CVU). That is, more than one in ten accounts for making digital payments are made through a digital wallet.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

53

In Argentina there are more than 134 digital wallets, but the consolidated players with comprehensive solutions and use case portfolios are Mercado Pago and Ualá. However, Personal Pay is positioned second in the market, reaching 7.3% of the market share in invested funds.

ØSubsidiaries in Paraguay and Uruguay

Paraguay

We provide mobile telecommunications services nationwide in Paraguay through our subsidiary Núcleo, under the “Personal” brand. Núcleo obtained licenses to provide commercial mobile services, Internet access, Flow service and videoconferencing and data transmission services in Paraguay.

As of December 31, 2023 Núcleo had approximately 2.3 million mobile customers, 0.2 million internet customers and 0.1 million cable television customers.

In terms of Internet access services, during 2023, Núcleo established fixed market prices, with high speeds always leveraged on the fastest fiber optic network in the country.

Regarding postpaid mobile services, during 2023 Núcleo maintained its customer acquisition strategy through aggressive offers with discounts on plans. Likewise, different campaigns continued to be carried out to build loyalty and retain postpaid customers. Regarding prepaid mobile services, Núcleo continued to offer packs that included advantages in the use of data, as well as unlimited calls to all operators.

Núcleo is the controlling company of Tuves, whose main activity is the distribution of audio and satellite signals to customers’ homes. In October 2023, the merger process between both companies began, where Núcleo is the absorbing company and Tuves is the absorbed company, and as of the date of this Annual Report, the merger process is pending of authorization by the public register. Núcleo is also the controlling company for Personal Envíos. The main activity of Personal Envíos is the provision of mobile financial services.

Network and Equipment

In 2023, Núcleo continued with the deployment of its fixed network, which allowed us to improve the country’s connectivity and economic convenience for our customers and consolidate ourselves as the Company with the greatest fiber optic coverage in the country.

Competition

There are currently four participants in the mobile telecommunications services market in Paraguay. Operators provide services using 2G, 3G and 4G technology. The Paraguayan market is highly competitive. As of December 31, 2023, Núcleo’s main competitor was Tigo (a subsidiary of Millicom International Cellular). Tigo has a significant market share in terms of revenue.

In relation to Flow services, there are two other operators that offer similar services in the Paraguayan market, Tigo and Claro, with Tigo being the main competitor with its “OneTV” service.

Uruguay

Telecom provides management and administration services to companies that render pay TV services in Uruguay under the brand Flow through Telemás S.A., one of the Adesol’s subsidiaries.

Flow is consolidated as the meeting point for entertainment, and customers discover on this platform a wide variety of content, from the place they choose and through the device they prefer, in a flexible and simple way. The increasingly diversified access offered through Flow TV, Flow Box and Flow App allows the arrival of entertainment to all Uruguayan homes, providing not only pay TV services but also streaming services.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

54

As of December 31, 2023, Adesol had approximately 0.1 million customers in Uruguay, providing them with pay TV services under different technological platforms, DTH, cable, MMDS (Multichannel Multipoint Distribution System) and IPTV services, which offers our customers the possibility of watching television programs and On Demand content, not only in the traditional way but also from any device, through a modern platform.

Network and Equipment

During 2023 Adesol offered services through DTH (Direct To Home) Platform in Montevideo and the metropolitan area comprising Ciudad del Plata and different locations in the department of Canelones and in rural areas of northern of Uruguay. Adesol also offered services through cable TV in the capital cities of Artigas, Salto, Paysandú, Rivera, Tacuarembó and also in Paso de los Toros.

Competition

The television market in Uruguay has approximately 0.5 million customers, where Flow holds a 22% share, after DirecTV, that holds a 31%. Then, the rest is divided among different local distributors. Only DirecTV can sell its pay TV services across the whole country, while Flow and the rest of the pay television operators have only territorial licenses. In Montevideo, Flow leads the market with a 22% share, followed by DirecTV with a 20% share.

The market continues showing a downward trend, marked by the increase of online entertainment alternatives, mainly Netflix, YouTube, and also because of piracy and free services. The exclusive distribution for the local football streaming rights is still held by Star+. Antel (a public company) kept increasing its global convergence strategy with aggressive promotions bundling with internet and mobile services, continuing with the Disney and local channels agreements, as well as sports rights. During 2023, we continue offering Disney+, Paramount+ and Star+ integrated to the Flow platform, seeking to turn Flow into a comprehensive platform attractive for our customers due to its content offering and its differential functionalities.

During the last quarter of 2023, the company obtained internet licenses for the territories of Salto, Paysandú and Rivera, which will give the company the possibility to enter the internet market and offer bundles of internet plus entertainment services.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY STRATEGY

In 2023, we focused on evolving the Multi-country platforms to a single regional platform that serves the different markets, which we believe will allow us to achieve scalability, regionalization and operational efficiencies. We have leveraged emerging technology based on generative artificial intelligence as an enabler of our ecosystem, increasing productivity, and personalization of services, which we believe will allow us to dynamically adapt to the needs of each customer and the demands of the market.

Among the highlights of 2023, we can mention:

Business Support Systems Transformation (the “#FAN Program”):

The #FAN Program is a comprehensive renewal program of the platforms managing the customer relationships (CRM), including the provision, charge, billing and collection of our services. During 2023, we have completed the migration of 19.2 million mobile lines and approximately 3.5 million Nplay customers (i.e., customers with more than one service rendered) according to the type of products contracted and the location to the #FAN Program. With these milestones completed, the migration was concluded during the current year and all operations that serve our B2C customers are within the #FAN Program.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

55

Business Support Systems B2B (the “#WIN Program”):

In 2023, the #WIN Program was launched to improve the customer experience by unifying and simplifying the End-to-End processes, products and platforms of the B2B business. #WIN B2B is a transformation program for customer relationship management (CRM) platforms, starting with the quote, sale, provision, billing, collections and post-sale of our services supported by World Class solutions. This flagship initiative collects the experiences acquired from the #FAN program for the B2C services. As of December 31, 2023, we managed to complete the Discovery stage and began the development to have a convergent quoting solution deployed in 2024. The plan estimates completing the deployment of the integrated solution and moving forward with shutdowns in 2025.

SWITCH - Digital experiences:

The SWITCH program helps us to maintain a common strategy in our Digital Channels and aims to be the Channel of choice for users to solve their needs in a simple and agile way, generating full funnel loyalty.

One of our priorities is to understand the needs of each user, personalize them and help them find what they are looking for (web ecosystem and e-commerce). In addition to managing their services and helping them to discover the proposals we have for their development and post-sales loyalty (self-management app, bot and assistance in social networks), we also provide a convergent and omnichannel experience.

During 2023, we have worked on the constant evolution of the store, optimizing the infrastructure, providing more and greater functionalities, to leverage conversion and sustain a high NPS. Improvements in personalization were also incorporated, as well as modifications and automations to improve response times, incorporate and promote payment methods from our own ecosystem and the digitalization of our users to leverage more and better efficiencies.

Data Phoenix project:

The Data Phoenix project is in its third year and we continue to maintain the objective of transforming ourselves into a Data Driven company by adopting world class methodologies and platforms to drive leadership. It involves having a unique ecosystem of data, analytics and change management products.

During 2023 we have built more than 60 models and ingested more than 80 sources in the Cloud, both as a product of the migration of legacy On Premise and the evolution of our Enterprise Data Warehouse. In this way we achieved operational efficiencies in licensing and application shutdowns. We have developed analytical products that are being used by the different business units (Flow, Fintech Services and Core Business).

We have adopted artificial intelligence tools intended to increase the value proposition and achieve operational efficiencies. In the short term we expect to be able to improve productivity in back-office and software development processes. In the medium term we aim to improve customer experience and achieve data monetization. In the long term we intend to implement network optimization projects.

Enabling Platform:

Automation Platform:

In alignment with our strategic business objectives and the major market shifts, our primary emphasis lies in the comprehensive automation of end-to-end processes and the vision of transitioning from a system per service to a common system for multiple services. This initiative is designed to enhance operational efficiency, particularly in the realm of everyday internal tasks associated with network and infrastructure operations.

Throughout the year 2023 we started integrating two key components: CloudValley, our collaborative self-service portal facilitating infrastructure management, and TAMBO, our Network Management Automation Platform. This strategic integration aims to synergize the capabilities of both tools, with a dedicated focus on delivering a seamless and efficient experience. The goal is to streamline and automate various processes within our company, fostering a more agile and responsive operational environment.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

56

Integration Platform:

Under our strategy of simplified and open digital architecture, we advanced in the implementation of our APIfication model, initiating the availability of services embedded in APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) that allow their reuse, accelerating our developments and delivering value to our customers. As of December 2023, we had 74 APIs being used by our CRM, Self-management and e-commerce APP, which has allowed us to accelerate the time to market of various solutions. A reuse rate of 63% was achieved. We have 79 developers for both our On Premise and cloud solutions.

Open Gateway:

During 2023, the GSMA (a global organization whose mission is to unify the mobile ecosystem to discover, develop and deliver innovation that helps business and society thrive) launched the global mobile industry initiative, which proposes that mobile operators around the world can expose their network services through standardized APIs so that developers can build new applications or scalable and simple solutions. They can integrate these APIs into existing business flows.

In 2023 we built our first API; SIM SWAP. The objective is to help banks in case of suspicious transactions, the bank can check if the customer made a SIM change in the short term.

MARKETING AND CUSTOMER CARE

Sales and Marketing

Telecom’s marketing strategy focuses on convergent sales, offering innovative products and services to its customers to complete its ecosystem of services intended to generate greater convenience and satisfaction. In line with current demands, we believe that it is essential to better understand data-driven customer needs. We believe that Artificial Intelligence will allow us to achieve personalization that reaches different customers, meeting the particular needs, preferences and requirements of each home.

Flow is in a new stage, where the product has evolved to become flexible, convenient and accessible. Both with the possibility of hiring it per day, and with the possibility of using it digitally and without installation, through any device.

As part of Telecom's strategy, we are moving forward in providing digital solutions leveraged in B2C connectivity, such as our Fintech Services, Personal Pay, and smart home services.

Telecom’s marketing activities included:

advertising on television, radio, newspapers, billboards on the streets and local programming channels offered to customers;
increase in online advertising, with the aim of growing digital share;
mailing information and special promotional material to current and potential customers; and
special events for Telecom’s customers, some of which are sponsored jointly with programming providers.

Customer Support

Telecom´s service model focuses on accompanying the customer throughout their life cycle, so that complaints and technical incidents can be resolved from the telephone channel that provides support and assistance, which includes special advice for high-value and onboarding customers. Additionally, there is a digital channel that offers all the necessary information to self-manage the customer's products.

The Company focuses on using and promoting the use by customers of all digital communication channels throughout “Mi Personal Flow App”, as the center of digitalization of customer service, plus the incorporation of artificial intelligence to better solve service queries.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

57

We also provide the option for account self-management through special online portals, therefore simplifying the procedure and providing our customers with alternatives. Access to these online portals includes processes for validating customer identities and analyzing behavioral patterns to anticipate their needs.

Telecom’s customer service operations related to fixed and mobile telephony services, Internet services and cable television services, are provided through contact centers, which includes specialized call centers and customer service representatives consisting of in-house and third-party personnel, available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Likewise, customers can contact by email and chat a virtual assistant through our website, as well as through social networks such as Twitter and Facebook.

At Telecom we ensure that the customer has a better experience in every contact they have through all commercial channels. The NPS of the different products, services and journeys with an impact on the customer's life is measured.

SUSTAINABILITY

At Telecom, sustainability is a management model embedded in our corporate policy that allows us to carry out our operations focusing on the generation of value in our economic, social and environmental performance.

Telecom is a member of the United Nations Global Compact since 2004 and complied with the 10 principles on human rights, quality of employment, environmental care and the fight against corruption. The Company’s commitment to comply with such principles is ratified every year and is part of its sustainability model. This model is based on the Company’s Code of Ethics and Conduct which incorporates, through declarations of principles and values, moral and ethical foundations within the organization.

We are leaders in an industry that is one of the pillars for the social and economic development of the country. Under our sustainability strategy, we seek to play an active role in the community with programs that use technology as a tool for social inclusion and education, to promote the value of diversity, and to generate climate-positive actions that reduce the impact of our operations on the environment.

Sustainability management is based on three topics: Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance (ESG). These topics translate into five lines of action:

Environmental Management: We protect the workplace and the environment.
Digital Business: We innovate in technology solutions, focusing on digital experience, security, and privacy.
Social Commitment: We promote digital inclusion and the development of digital skills in the community through technology.
Our People: We promote diversity and a culture of innovation and digital transformation in our work teams.
Ethics and Transparency: We ensure compliance with ethical and transparency standards.

In 2022 we developed and published our Sustainability Policy, to define a framework for the Company´s sustainable management, aligning the principles under which the activities are expected to be carried out. They include the aspects that make up our commitment to sustainability and relationships with all stakeholders. The document can be consulted at: https://institucional.telecom.com.ar/assets/files/sustainability/policies/Politica-Sustentabilidad-en.pdf. The contents of our website and our Sustainability Policy are not part of this Annual Report.

Our 2023 Sustainability Plan promoted good practices for all our stakeholders - community, employees, suppliers, environment, customers, and investors - seeking to enhance the contribution of Telecom’s social and environmental performance.

In relation to Social Commitment, Telecom has developed a social investment plan aimed at the community that is focused on the promotion of the use of technology as a tool for the community’s progress and growth. The plan currently includes three initiatives:

Digit@lers: free programming courses for young people interested in developing their future in the technology industry;

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

58

Chicas digit@lers (Digit@lers Girls): free courses for young women aged 13-17 to introduce them to the world of technology and thus reduce the gender gap in the tech industry; and
Nuestro Lugar (Our Place): a program that promotes the responsible, safe and creative use of technology among children and teenagers, through cyber-citizenship and educational workshops at schools. It also includes teacher training for the use of technologies in the classroom.

Regarding the Environmental Management, our environmental policy and strategy seeks to build a business model that minimizes the environmental footprint of the services we provide. This commitment entails the responsible use of natural resources and materials, favoring a circular economy and the management of products and materials at the end of their life cycle.

We work on different lines of action, such as the identification of energy efficiency opportunities, a responsible waste management, the minimization of environmental risks, the development of an internal environmental culture based on awareness, and the inclusion of sustainability principles in our products and services, and in our value chain.

In 2023 we launched our first “Climate Report”, a document in which we define our climate strategy to achieve objectives aligned with the international decarbonization commitments assumed by our country towards the year 2050. Also, since 2022, we report our carbon footprint to the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP). CDP seeks to collect information on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from companies and, through an independent scoring methodology, they measure corporate progress on climate change.

Additionally, in 2023 we began analyzing the financial risks derived from climate change according to the framework established by the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD). In 2024 we intend to complete this work, that we believe will allow us to identify, manage and disclose the risks, opportunities and possible financial impacts that arise from climate change.

During 2023, we continued to attend investors reporting ESG requirements and we learned about the latest trends on the subject through virtual conferences and webinars. In addition, we met with rating agencies, which include ESG factors in their credit analysis considerations for the Company, and during Sustainability Week (an internal event) we held a presentation on Sustainable Finance emphasizing the importance of ESG criteria in the world of finance.

We communicated all these initiatives among our stakeholders through our Sustainability Report, a document we have been publishing for 15 years. It summarizes our progress and the challenges in building a sustainable management, with a focus on the creation of value for our audiences and for society in general. Since 2020, we report in this document on our ESG impacts through financial and non-financial information and since 2022 we also integrate the company’s annual corporate information required by the GCL.

This Integrated Annual Report complies with the international sustainability guidelines issued by the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI). It details our contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and its 2030 Agenda and to the 10 principles of the United Nations Global Compact, as well as our compliance with International Standard ISO 26.000:2010. In addition, since 2011, we have submitted the Company’s indicators to an external assurance review. The Integrated Annual Report is also presented as our Communication on Progress for the United Nations Global Compact Principles.

Additionally, the Integrated Annual Report follows the guidelines defined by The International <IR> Framework of the Value Reporting Foundation. Thus, the value creation model shows our contribution through the Sustainability Strategy to the six capitals proposed by the framework: Financial, Industrial, Intellectual, Human, Social and Relational, and Natural.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

59

MANAGEMENT OF CHURN

Churn refers to the termination of a mobile telephony, cable television or Internet services customer’s account. The churn rate is determined by calculating the total number of disconnected customers of each of our mobile telephony, cable television and Internet services over a given period as a percentage of the initial number of customers for such services as of the beginning of the applicable measurement period. We seek to enforce a strict disconnection policy, which provides for the disconnection of cable television services, Internet services and mobile telephony services after a 95-day period of non-payment and delivery of a notice of disconnection.

REGULATORY AUTHORITIES AND FRAMEWORK

Our activities are affected by, and will continue to be affected by, among others, rules and regulations applicable in Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay and United States, which we describe below.

REGULATORY AUTHORITIES

The regulatory authorities described below are primarily responsible for regulating the services we provide. Other authorities also have jurisdiction over different aspects of our operations, including, without limitation, antitrust authorities, the CNV, the public registry of commerce and tax authorities.

Argentina

ENACOM is the principal regulatory body responsible for the regulation, control and supervision of the ICT sector. ENACOM is an autonomous federal agency within the purview of the Secretary of Public Innovation (which, in turn, is under the supervision of the Cabinet of Ministers).

Our subsidiary Micro Sistemas is registered as a PSP (Payment Service Providers that offer payment accounts), as an Interoperable Digital Wallet and as Other Non-Financial Credit Provider, and is under the oversight of the BCRA. In addition, it is subject to the terms of “Financial Information Unit” (“FIU” - Unidad de Información Financiera) regulations for this type of operations, as it falls within the scope of the terms of Article 20 of Law No. 25,246 (as amended), which provides for the persons obliged to report to the FIU.

Paraguay

Our mobile telecommunications services in Paraguay are subject to the authority of the CONATEL. Our subsidiary Personal Envíos (which received authorization to operate as an Electronic Payment Company) is supervised by the Central Bank of Paraguay.

Uruguay

Our subsidiary Adesol is a related party of Bersabel S.A. and Visión Satelital S.A., entities that own licenses to provide subscription broadcasting services in Uruguay and are subject to the authority of the URSEC.

United States

Our fixed wholesale telecommunications operations in the United States are subject to the authority of the Federal Communications Commission.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

60

REGULATORY FRAMEWORK

Argentina

In Argentina, the provision of fixed and mobile telecommunications services, Internet services and cable television services (subscription broadcasting services) are highly regulated, and the regulatory framework is continuously evolving. The regulatory framework applicable to our business includes:

Argentine Digital Law (“LAD”) and its amendments;
Law No. 19,798 (to the extent it does not conflict with the LAD);
the Privatization Regulations, which regulated that process.
the Transfer Agreement;
the licenses for providing telecommunication services granted to Telecom and the List of Conditions and their respective regulations; and
current service regulations.

The Argentine Digital Law

The LAD provides for a single country-wide license and individual registration for information and communication technologies services (Licencia Única Argentina Digital). Pursuant to the LAD, licensees of ICT Services are required to set prices that (i) are fair and reasonable, (ii) cover the exploitation costs and (iii) tend to maximize the efficiency of the supply of these services while maintaining a reasonable operating margin. The LAD also amended the Universal Service (see “—Universal Service”), includes a declaration of public interest of the development of ICT and its associated resources in order to ensure complete neutrality of ICT networks and grant all users the right to access, use, send, receive or offer any content, application, service or protocol through Internet without any restrictions or discrimination. The LAD allows licensees of ICT Services to provide subscription broadcasting services through physical or radio-electric link, including this service within its regulatory scope.

Decree No. 690/20 - Amendment to the LAD - Controversy

On August 22, 2020, the PEN issued Decree No. 690/20 (“Decree N° 690/20”), which has been ratified by the Argentine Congress under Law No. 26,122 and has been regulated through ENACOM Resolutions No. 1,466/20 and 1,467/20, through which, among other issues:

declared ICT Services as well as access to telecommunications networks for and between licensees as “essential and strategic competition public services”, and empowered ENACOM to ensure accessibility;
established that the prices of: (i) the essential and strategic competition public ICT Services, (ii) the prices of those services provided in accordance with the Universal Service and (iii)the prices of those services determined by ENACOM for public interest reasons, shall be regulated by ENACOM; and
ENACOM established the price and characteristics of each service of the ICT’s PBU.

The Company initiated legal proceedings before the Federal Court of Appeals on Administrative Litigation Matters challenging the constitutionality of Decree No. 690/20 and the aforementioned ENACOM Resolutions.

In this context, the Company sought to obtain a precautionary measure suspending the application of the aforementioned ENACOM regulations and Decree No. 690/20. On April 30, 2021, the Federal Court of Appeals on Administrative Litigation Matters decided by majority to grant the injunction requested, ordering the suspension of the effects of Decree No. 690/20 and of ENACOM resolutions provided as a consequence and their non-applicability to the Company. This preliminary injunction was initially granted for a period of six months and it has been extended for equal periods, the last extension granted being on February 20, 2024.

During 2022 and 2023, Chamber II of the Federal Court of Appeals on Administrative Litigation Matters, confirmed the different instance resolutions, the last confirmation being dated October 6, 2023 which ratified the extension of the precautionary measure extension dated August 22, 2023.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

61

During 2022 and 2023, the PEN and ENACOM filed extraordinary appeals against the rulings favorable to the Company, which were denied by Chamber II of the Federal Administrative Court of Appeals. Both the PEN and ENACOM filed appeals against the decisions, which, as of the date of Annual Report, are still pending. Additionally, the extraordinary appeals against the decision dated October 6, 2023, is still being processed as of the date of this Annual Report.

It should be noted, as background, that the Supreme Court of Justice denied the appeals against the rulings issued by the Federal Administrative Litigation Chamber.

Consequently, the precautionary measure is fully in force as of the date of issuance of these Annual Report, through extensions of six-month periods.

As supported by the preliminary injunctions granted, the Company, during the last three years, has increased the prices of its services in order to continue to match the increase in its costs due to the inflation.

Finally, in relation to the legal proceedings mentioned in the second paragraph, on November 17, 2023 Telecom was notified of the first instance ruling that resolves the nullity of Decree 690/20 and ENACOM Resolutions No. 1,466/20 and 1,467/20. Among the main arguments, and in order to resolve, the judge considered that the fact of establishing permanent measures through a Decree affects the principle of reasonableness between the purpose of the norm and the means used. By providing that private activity be removed from the private sector, it has an expropriation nature since acquired rights constitutionally protected by the guarantee of art. 17 of the National Constitution. Likewise, it concluded that the increase in costs due to the implementation of the PBU, together with the price freeze provided for by the Decree, are burdensome measures for licensees and potentially harmful for users which, contrary to the purpose sought by the norm, would result in in lower investment and lower quality of service, violating constitutionally protected rights.

While it cannot be assured that these issues will be resolved favorably, the Company’s management and legal advisors believe that the Company has strong legal and de facto arguments to support the position of Telecom Argentina.

ENACOM intervention

It is worth mentioning that, through Decree No. 89/2024 of January 26, 2024, the intervention of ENACOM was ordered for a period of 180 calendar days, extendable only once, which provides that the ENACOM auditor must carry out a special analysis on the implications arising from the issuance of Decree 690/2020 and the administrative acts issued for its application. Likewise, among other things, ENACOM’s auditor must carry out a survey of the organizational structure of the ENACOM; seek simplification in administrative processes; and carry out an exhaustive analysis of the current regulation in order to determine whether it is obsolete or not and propose the necessary actions to update it.

Telecom’s License

According to the LAD, Telecom holds a non-expiring Unique Argentine Digital License (Licencia Única Argentina Digital), which allows Telecom to provide a wide range of fixed and mobile telecommunications services, Internet access, subscription broadcasting services (by physical and/or radio electric link) and radio electric service of concentration of links.

UNIVERSAL SERVICE

The licensees of ICT Services are required to make contributions to the Universal Service Fiduciary Fund equivalent to 1% of the total accrued revenues from the provision of ICT Services, net of taxes and charges.

On September 3, 2020, ENACOM issued Resolution No. 721/20. Although several modifications were introduced, the new Universal Service Regulation maintains the contributions to the Universal Service Fiduciary Fund of licensees at the level of 1% of ICT’ total accrued revenues, as provided by the previous Regulation.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

62

SPECTRUM 5G

Reliable and Intelligent Telecommunications Services (STeFI, for its Spanish acronym)

Through Resolution No. 1,289/2023, published in the Official Gazette on August 29, 2023, ENACOM’s Board allocated the frequency band between 3,600 and 3,700 MHz to the Fixed Service and to the Land Mobile Service, both with primary status, and established its use in time-division duplex (TDD) mode for the provision of STeFI on the use of Fifth Generation (5G) technology in the country, regulated by ENACOM Resolution No. 2,385/2022, whose objective was to establish the conditions of the service, the essential benefits and the minimum technological guidelines that guarantee its quality and efficiency.

Through Resolution No. 1,285/2023, published on the same date, ENACOM authorized the call for bids for the allocation of frequency bands for the provision of STeFI and approved the General and Particular Bidding Terms and Conditions for the Allocation of Frequency Bands from 3,300 to 3,600 MHz (“Bid Form”), divided into three lots of 100 MHz each. The base price for each lot was set at US$350 million.

On October 24, 2023, at the Auction held for the above-mentioned Bid, Telecom was awarded Lot 2 (3,400-3,500 MHz Band), equivalent to US$350 million which was paid in November, 2023.

OTHER MATERIAL REGULATIONS

Telecom is also subject to other material regulations in Argentina, such as the Regulation of ICT Services, the General Rules Governing ICT Service Customers, the Number Portability Regulation, General Rules Governing Interconnection and Access, Quality Rules for ICT Services, National Rules for Contingencies, International Roaming Agreement between Chile and Argentina, Infrastructure Sharing Regulation and Subscription Television Services Regulation, Regulatory Authority’s Penalty, among others.

Paraguay

In Paraguay, Núcleo has a license to provide mobile telecommunication services (STM and PCS) and a license for the installation and provision of Internet and data services throughout the country. Additionally, on December 26, 2023, CONATEL approved the transfer of the TUVES´s license to provide DATDH services to Núcleo. This transfer is due to the corporate reorganization process. These licenses have been granted for renewable five-year periods. Personal Envíos is authorized by the Central Bank of Paraguay to operate as an Electronic Payment Company (EMPE), and its corporate purpose is restricted to such service.

Uruguay

In Uruguay, Adesol has contractual relationships with several licensees that provide subscription television services through various systems in such country.

For further information on the most relevant Regulatory Framework matters, see Note 2 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

DISCLOSURE PURSUANT TO SECTION 219 OF THE IRAN THREAT REDUCTION AND SYRIA HUMAN RIGHTS ACT OF 2012 (ITRSHRA)

Section 219 of the Iran Threat Reduction and Syria Human Rights Act of 2012 added Section 13(r) to the Exchange Act, which requires a 34’ Exchange Act registrant to disclose in its annual or quarterly reports filed with the SEC whether the issuer or any of its affiliates has knowingly engaged in certain activities, transactions or dealings with the government of Iran, relating to Iran or with designated natural persons or entities involved in terrorism or the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction during the period covered by the annual or quarterly report. Disclosure is required even when the activities were conducted outside the United States by non-U.S. entities and even when such activities were conducted in compliance with applicable law.

In accordance with our Code of Ethics and Conduct, we seek to comply with all applicable laws.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

63

Activities relating to Iran

Commercial Agreements with International Carriers (fixed services):

During 2023, we have provided international telecommunications services agreements with international carriers (fixed services), which cover delivery of traffic to Iran through non-Iranian carriers.

We maintain commercial agreements with international carriers located in countries other than Iran, which permit those carriers to deliver traffic from Iran to our networks and from our networks to Iran.

Our total expenses under commercial agreements with international carriers regarding delivery of traffic to Iran were approximately US$17,000 as of December 31, 2023.During 2023, and regarding outgoing traffic, we have sent traffic to Iran only through Telecom Italia Sparkle S.p.A (Italy).

Regarding incoming traffic, we charge the relevant international carrier for traffic ending in our network. Consequently, we do not know the country of origin of such traffic.

Accordingly, our total payables and receivables from international carriers include balances arising from traffic related to Iran but it is not possible to segregate them. The outbound costs are wholly immaterial with respect to the Company’s consolidated operating expenses for the period presented.

Activities relating to the Designated Countries – Cuba, North Korea and Syria

In addition to the mandatory disclosure pursuant to ITRSHRA described above, our activities that directly or indirectly relate to the “Designated Countries” (countries designated by the U.S. Department of State as state sponsors of terrorism and are subject to U.S. economic sanctions and export controls), during 2023, were the following:

i. Roaming agreements (mobile services)

During 2023 Telecom Argentina and Núcleo, our subsidiary in Paraguay, maintained Roaming agreements with ETECSA Cuba.

Also, Núcleo maintains a Roaming agreement with MTN Syria. However, there is no billable traffic through this agreement or open balances.

We do not maintain any commercial relationship with North Korea.

As of December 31, 2023, revenues, expenses, receivables and payables related to roaming agreements were as follows:

 (In thousands of P$)

Roaming agreements (mobile services)

      

Revenues

      

Expenses

      

Receivables

      

Payables

Cuba

 

1,281

 

46,626

 

38

 

157

Total

 

1,281

 

46,626

 

38

 

157

% of respective consolidated total amounts

 

(a)

 

(a)

 

(a)

 

(a)

(a)Less than 0.001%.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

64

(In thousands of P$ in current currency)

Roaming agreements (mobile services)

      

Revenues

      

Expenses

      

Receivables

      

Payables

Cuba

 

2,534

 

92,243

 

38

 

157

Total

 

2,534

 

92,243

 

38

 

157

% of respective consolidated total amounts

 

(a)

(0.0042)

%

(a)

 

(a)

(a)Less than 0.001%.

ii.

Commercial Agreements with International Carriers (fixed services):

We also maintain commercial agreements with international carriers from countries other than the Designated Countries which permit those carriers to deliver traffic from the Designated Countries to our networks and from our networks to such countries.

We do not maintain any commercial relationship involving Syria or North Korea.

Regarding outgoing traffic, during 2023, Telecom has sent traffic to the Designated Countries mainly through Ibasis, Express Teleservices, Latinatel, HK, China Mobile, Vodafone and Cirion, among others.

Regarding incoming traffic, Telecom Argentina charges the relevant international carrier for traffic ending in Telecom’s network. Consequently, Telecom Argentina does not know the country of origin of such traffic, except for incoming traffic with ETECSA, which comes directly from Cuba. On May 1, 2022, the agreement with ETECSA (Cuba) was finalized.

Accordingly, our total payables and receivables from international carriers include balances arising from traffic related to the Designated Countries but it is not possible to segregate them, except for those balances with ETECSA, which are only related to Cuba.

As of December 31, 2023, revenues, expenses and payables from commercial agreements with the Designated Countries were as follows:

    

December 31, 2023

(In thousands of P$)

Commercial Agreements with International Carriers (fixed services)

Revenues

      

Expenses

      

Payables

Cuba

 

 

 

12,017

Total

 

 

 

12,017

% of respective consolidated total amounts

 

(a)

 

(a)

 

(a)

(a)Less than 0.001%.

The figures described in the table above are wholly immaterial with respect to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

65

CAPITAL EXPENDITURES AND RIGHTS OF USE ASSETS

The following table sets forth our capital expenditures for each of the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:

    

Year ended December 31,

2023

      

2022

      

2021

(P$ million)

Real estate

449

1,102

78

Switching equipment

 

7,308

 

6,851

 

3,815

Mobile network access, external wiring & transmission

 

67,725

 

71,599

 

78,229

Computer equipment and software

 

60,639

 

66,663

 

33,473

Construction in progress

65,646

76,924

135,593

Materials

61,662

121,243

226,857

Other

21,806

29,526

20,995

Subtotal tangible capital expenditures

285,235

373,908

499,040

Licenses

174,010

4,198

1,772

Incremental Cost from the acquisitions of contracts

5,310

10,348

14,206

Other

18,643

4,755

3,930

Subtotal intangible capital expenditures

197,963

19,301

19,908

Total capital expenditures in PP&E and intangible assets

483,198

393,209

518,948

Right of use assets

85,619

65,386

110,123

Total capital expenditures in PP&E and intangible assets and Right of use assets

568,817

458,595

629,071

Our capital expenditures were approximately US$940 million in 2023, US$714 million in 2022 and US$752 million in 2021, and represented 23.8%, 17.3% and 20% of our consolidated revenues, respectively. We estimate that our capital expenditures in 2024 will be approximately US$481 million. See “Item 5—Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Capital Expenditures”.

We expect to finance these expenditures through cash flows generated by our operations and financing provided by third parties.

PP&E

As detailed below, our principal physical properties consist of transmission equipment, access facilities, outside plant (external wiring) and switching equipment. These assets are, at present, mainly located throughout AMBA and the Northern Region. Some of our assets are located in areas that may be subject to natural disasters and severe weather, and which may be adversely affected in the future by climate change.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

66

We believe that our assets are, and for the foreseeable future will be, adequate and suitable for their respective uses. The table below shows the carrying the amount of PP&E:

    

As of December 31, 2023

    

Services rendered

in Argentina

Other abroad

Total

(P$ million)

Real estate

 

341,783

 

4,137

 

345,920

 

Switching equipment

 

34,998

 

14,195

 

49,193

 

Mobile network access, external wiring & transmission

 

978,330

 

70,092

 

1,048,422

 

Computer equipment and software

 

195,310

 

10,486

 

205,796

 

Construction in progress

134,699

24,767

159,466

Materials

 

198,530

 

16,121

 

214,651

 

Others

 

238,236

 

34,626

 

272,862

 

Total PP&E, net carrying value

 

2,121,886

 

174,424

 

2,296,310

(1)

(1)Excluding valuation allowance for obsolescence and impairment of materials for P$21,993 million and impairment of PP&E for P$2,479 million.

All the above-mentioned assets were used to provide service to our customers.

As of December 31, 2023, we have entered into purchase commitments relating to PP&E totaling P$139,154 million. Our current major suppliers of PP&E are Huawei International Co. Limited, IATEC S.A., Huawei Tech Investment Co. LTD Argentina, Newsan S.A., Nokia Solutions and Networks OY, Citytech S.A., IBM Argentina S.R.L., Stratton Nea S.A., Centro Interacción Multimedia S.A. and Cat Technologies Argentina S.A.

ITEM 4A.           UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.

PART I - ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

67

ITEM 5.              OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

You should read the following discussion in conjunction with the rest of this Annual Report, in particular, the sections “Presentation of Financial Information,” “Item 4 —Information on the Company” and the Consolidated Financial Statements, including the notes to those financial statements, which appear elsewhere in this Annual Report. Our Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards as issued by the IASB. The following discussion and analysis are presented by the Management of our company and provide a view of our financial condition, operating performance and prospects from Management’s perspective. The strategies and expectations referred to in this discussion are considered forward-looking statements and may be strongly influenced or changed by shifts in market conditions, new initiatives that we implement and other factors. Since much of this discussion is forward-looking, you are urged to review carefully the factors referenced elsewhere in this Annual Report that may have a significant influence on the outcome of such forward-looking statements. We cannot provide assurance that the strategies and expectations referred to in this discussion will come to fruition. Forward-looking statements are based on current plans, estimates and projections, and therefore, you should not rely solely on them. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements in light of new information or future events. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, most of which are difficult to predict and are generally beyond our control. We caution you that a number of important factors could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, the forward-looking statements. Please refer to “Forward-Looking Statements,” “Item 3—Key Information—Risk Factors” and “—Trend Information” below for descriptions of some of the factors relevant to this discussion and other forward-looking statements in this Annual Report.

Management Overview

At Telecom we develop our activities taking into consideration the global impact on the society, with a sustainable management integrated to the business, which promotes the use of technology as a response to social and environmental demands.

We continue to develop a strategy firmly anchored to the digital evolution of society, which sets a clear direction for our Company in its positioning as a technology company. This strategy is materialized in the ecosystem of digital solutions, products, and services that we currently offer to our customers: individuals, households, businesses, institutions, and governments.

Operating in a digital economy impels us to seek to promote innovation by integrating efficient, agile, and collaborative business management methodologies and practices throughout our working community—a core value of the cultural transformation we aim to foster, as outlined in our cultural principles.

We seek to go beyond connectivity, to accompany the challenges of the digital economy and develop new 100% digital businesses, based on Fintech Services, cybersecurity, entertainment, IoT and smarthome solutions, among others, through our commercial brands (Personal and Flow for individuals, Telecom for the corporate services: i.e., companies, SMEs, institutions and government, and Personal Pay for Fintech Services).

It is worth noting a significant milestone in this journey of digital evolution: with an investment exceeding US$350 million, we acquired a 100 MHz block in the 3.5 GHz spectrum band, enabling us to expand our fifth-generation networks.

The 5G network represents a new link in the chain of our infrastructure, embodying our commitment to the country and its people. We firmly believe that the 5G ecosystem will provide significant opportunities across all sectors of the industry, serving as a key enabler for Argentina's digital development. At Telecom, this has been a reality since 2021 when we began constructing the first antennas, which now extend throughout the country.

In addition, we believe that digitalization provides us with the opportunity to deepen practices in the areas of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance).

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

68

We strive to align our business model with energy efficiency and sustainable practices. This year, we achieved great results by boosting cloudification and virtualization in our operations, as well as new IoT solutions. Additionally, we entered into significant agreements to expand the purchase of energy from renewable sources, which we believe places us on a promising path towards achieving carbon neutrality and the climate goals set for 2050.

While 2023 required extreme creativity and skill to balance the economic variables facing the Company, we believe the coming year is expected to pose even greater challenges. We hope that the beginning of a new phase in our country is accompanied with economic expansion and the growth of the digital economy. In our view, this can only be achieved through the adaptation of regulations and tax schemes that promote private investment across all segments of the ICT industry.

We need to continue to focus our energy on maintaining a balance between revenues and costs to ensure the sustainability of the business. To this end, we have a committed management team with common objectives to ensure our business goals, i) consolidation of our core businesses of connectivity and entertainment, ii) positioning our Personal Pay wallet, iii) generating value in the B2B market, iv) technological and cultural transformation, v) ensuring business sustainability and customer loyalty, and vi) offering the best service experience to our customers.

We trust in the more than 21 thousand individuals who are part of this company and contribute each day to building our employer brand. With shared values of collaborative leadership and work, we continue to strive to promote talent as an essential input on our path of digital evolution. We aim to generate initiatives for them to cultivate pride in being part of Telecom, while promoting a balance between work and personal life.

We are especially grateful to our customers, because every day they choose us to empower their world with the applications, services and solutions we make available to them. With them, we remain committed to continue improving and adding value, to continue accompanying them in the evolution of their digital life.

Consolidated revenues in 2023 amounted to P$2,059,101 million as compared to P$2,270,728 million in 2022 and P$2,581,043 million in 2021. The decrease of P$211,627 million in 2023 (a 9.3% decrease) was mainly due to the fact that the inflation rate for the last twelve months amounted to 211.4% and the Company (and other competitors in the ICT industry) did not transfer the totality of this inflation to its prices. The decrease of P$310,315 million in 2022 (a 12% decrease) was mainly due to the fact that the inflation rate for the twelve months of 2022 amounted to 94.8% and the Company (and other competitors in the ICT industry) did not transfer the totality of this inflation to its prices.

Net loss in 2023 amounted to P$249,687 million as compared to a net loss of P$640,379 million and a net income of P$60,294 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively. Net loss for 2023 decreased by P$390,692 million as compared to 2022.

For a detailed analysis of our results of operations for fiscal year 2023, see “—Years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021” below. For a discussion of the factors that may affect our results of operations see “Item 3—Key Information—Risk Factors” and “—Years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021—Factors Affecting Results of Operations” and “—Trend Information” below.

Finally, from a financial point of view, during the current year, we issued in the Argentine market four new Notes for a nominal value of US$ linked 396 million (P$230,083 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023) and one Note for a nominal value of UVA 74.6 million equivalent to P$37,435 million (P$ 46,968 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023). We also executed several lines of credit with multilateral organizations, including two new tranches under the IDB loan for a total of US$120 million in order to pay for the 5G spectrum license. This was possible thanks to the confidence of the national and international markets in the Company’s credit strength and business strategy. Additionally, it should be noted that, during 2023, the Company distributed non-cash assets dividends for a total amount of P$47,701 million (P$104,445 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023).

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

69

Non-IFRS Accounting Standards Measures

The following discussion and analysis summarizes relevant measures of results of operations presenting items by nature. The Company believes that the presentation of the measure “adjusted EBITDA” provides investors and financial analysts with appropriate information that is relevant to understanding the Company’s past and present performance as well as our projections of future performance (see the purpose of use of adjusted EBITDA and reconciliation of net income to adjusted EBITDA in section “Adjusted EBITDA”). Moreover, adjusted EBITDA is one of the key performance measures used by Management for monitoring the Company’s profitability and financial position, at consolidated levels.

Years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021

For purposes of these sections, the fiscal years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 are referred to as “2023,” “2022” and “2021,” respectively.

Our results of operations are determined in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards as issued by the IASB. Telecom provides customers with a broad range of telecommunication services. To fulfill its purpose, Telecom conducts different activities that are distributed among the companies in the Group. For further information about our main products and services, see “Item 4—The Business—Main Products and Services”.

Factors Affecting Results of Operations

Described below are certain factors that may be helpful in understanding our operating results. These factors are based on the information currently available to our Management and may not represent all of the factors that are relevant to an understanding of our current or future results of operations. See also “Item 3—Key Information—Risk Factors”. Additional information regarding trends expected to influence our results of operations is analyzed below under “—Trend Information”.

The Argentine Economy

Although a significant portion of our financial liabilities are denominated in foreign currencies, a substantial majority of our assets, operations and customers are located in Argentina. Accordingly, our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows depend to a significant extent on economic and political conditions prevailing in Argentina. The Argentine government has exercised and continues to exercise significant influence over many aspects of the Argentine economy. Accordingly, Argentine governmental actions concerning the economy could significantly affect private sector entities in general and our operations in particular, as well as affect market conditions, prices and returns on Argentine securities, including our outstanding securities and our shares. Our operating results, financial condition and cash flows have been and will be affected by fluctuations in the Argentine economy. For more information on these macroeconomic and political conditions, see “Item 3—Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Argentina”.

During 2020, aggregate economic activity was mainly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. That year, Argentina experienced the sharpest year-on-year GDP decline in its economic history since 2002. During 2021, the economy started to recover and experienced a growth of approximately 10.3% as compared to 2020.

Since 2022, the global economy has tended to decelerate. With core inflation persisting in many advanced economies and easing in many emerging ones, central banks in the former maintained or even raised benchmark interest rates, while those in the latter began to reduce them, especially in Latin America. This impacted capital flows to emerging economies, which lost momentum.

Economic activity in Argentina halted its expansion during 2023. While the GDP increased by 1.3% during the first quarter, it decreased by 4.9% and 0.8% during the second and third quarters of 2023, respectively.

Although in 2023 there was a decrease in public spending compared to 2022, the fiscal deficit persisted due to lower income from taxes, mainly related to the impact of the drought resulting on lower export taxes. As of December 31, 2023, the U.S. Dollar appreciated 118% against the Argentine Peso, while inflation increased in the year-on-year comparison reaching 211.4% at the end of December 2023.

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

70

During 2023, exports evolution was unfavorable and the trade balance was negative for US$6,926 million, resulting in the decrease of international reserves. The BCRA reacted to the consequent loss of international reserves by continuing to reinforce foreign exchange controls for individuals and companies.

Regarding external debt, following the restructuring of Argentina’s foreign-currency denominated debt in 2020 (including foreign-law governed debt and bonds governed by Argentine law), the Argentine government reached an agreement with the IMF on a new program. On January 28, 2022, the IMF and the Argentine government reached an understanding on certain key policies as part of their ongoing discussions on an IMF-supported program. On March 4, 2022, the Argentine government reached a staff-level agreement with the IMF and a bill was sent to the Argentine Congress. During March, 2022, the Senate approved the agreement between Argentina and the IMF. As of February 1, 2024, the IMF Executive Board and the Argentine authorities reached a staff-level agreement on the first to the seventh reviews under the extended fund facility arrangement. The decision of the Executive Board enables an immediate disbursement of approximately US$ 4.7 billion (or SDR 3.5 billion) to support the significant efforts of the new Milei administration to restore macroeconomic stability. As of December 31, 2023, Argentina’s country risk stood at 1,906 points.

Effect of Inflation

Pursuant to IAS 29, the financial statements of entities whose functional currency is that of a hyperinflationary economy must be restated. IAS 29 does not prescribe when hyperinflation arises, but includes several factors of hyperinflation. Since July 1, 2018, Argentina has been categorized as a hyperinflationary country, since certain macroeconomic indicators and events during 2018 evidenced that the qualitative and quantitative factors identified in IAS 29 (the quantitative factor being when the country’s projected three-year cumulative inflation rate exceeds 100%) were satisfied. Therefore, we have restated our Consolidated Financial Statements and the financial information in constant Argentine Pesos as of December 31, 2023, for all the periods reported in this Annual Report based on certain price indexes to take into account the effect of inflation in Argentina. See “Item 3—Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Argentina— Inflation has accelerated and could accelerate further, causing adverse effects on the economy and negatively impacting Telecom’s margins and/or ratios,” and Note 1.d) to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

The CPI index has registered an increase of 211.4%, 94.8% and 50.9% on a year-over-year comparison for 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. See Note 1.d) to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

The financial information issued for comparative purposes must also be presented in the current currency as of December 31, 2023 and must be restated using the annual index of the current year.

As a result of applying the comprehensive inflation restatement, the Company will record an increase in the value of non-monetary items, such as Fixed Assets with an impact on deferred taxes and an increase in the Company’s equity, including shareholders’ contributions.

Income Tax Inflation Adjustment

In accordance with the provisions of the regulations in force in the Income Tax Law, the Company applies the income tax inflation adjustment set out in Title VI of the income tax law since fiscal year 2019, as that is the year the variation of the required CPI was verified.

The income tax inflation adjustment corresponding to fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 2021, is fully charged to the corresponding fiscal year.

Notwithstanding the aforementioned, on December 1, 2022, the Law No. 27,701 was enacted, which provided that taxpayers who determine a positive inflation adjustment in the first and second fiscal years beginning on January 1, 2022 may allocate one-third in that fiscal period and the remaining two-thirds in equal parts to the two immediately following fiscal periods. Said computation will proceed for those subjects who make investments in the purchase, construction, manufacture, elaboration or import of Fixed Assets (except automobiles) during each of the immediate fiscal periods following the computation of each third, for an amount greater than or equal to P$30 billion. Given that the Company made investments during 2023 for more than P$30 billion, as of December 31, 2022 and 2023, it determined the income tax inflation adjustment.

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

71

Additionally, the update of the cost of several assets in case of disposal and the update of computable depreciation of Fixed Assets, to all acquisitions or investments made in fiscal years beginning on January 1, 2018 based on changes in the CPI was generally established.

Accordingly, and pursuant to a comprehensive interpretation of applicable regulations, the Company recognized the corresponding accounting impact, that amounted to a loss of P$429,765 million as of December 31, 2023.

Effects of Fluctuations in Exchange Rates between the Argentine Peso and the U.S. dollar and other major foreign currencies

In 2023, the Argentine Peso’s rate of devaluation accelerated against major foreign currencies. According to exchange rate information published by the Banco de la Nación Argentina, the Argentine Peso depreciated by 356.3% against the U.S. dollar during the year ended December 31, 2023 (compared to 72.5% and 22.1% in the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively).

Since September 2019, following the economic instability and the significant devaluation of the Peso that took place after the primary elections, foreign exchange controls and restrictions to the transfer of currency abroad were reinstated. The previous Fernández administration sought to prevent additional demand for foreign currency by maintaining and reinforcing exchange controls (i.e., the imposition of higher taxes on the acquisition of foreign currency, among others). In response to these measures, several parallel U.S. dollar trading markets developed in which the Argentine Peso-U.S. dollar exchange rate differ substantially from the official Argentine Peso-U.S. dollar exchange rate.

The new administration of Javier Milei has stated that it will implement policies aimed at modifying Argentina's macroeconomic conditions. In this regard, the BCRA announced the transition to a new macroeconomic stability regime, establishing a 2% monthly sliding path of the official exchange rate. Additionally, the REM published by the BCRA on February 6, 2024 estimated a monthly inflation of 227 % for the year 2024. In particular, a monthly inflation of 18% was forecast for the month of February 2024. In turn, the latest estimate of the OECD, stated that inflation in 2024 will be 250.6% and that the upward trend in prices is being driven by the devaluation of the currency, which it maintains will persist during 2024 due to the gradual elimination of numerous exchange controls. Notwithstanding, the OECD improves its medium-term outlook, estimating an inflation of 64.7% for the year 2025.

See “Item 10—Additional Information—Foreign Investment and Exchange Controls in Argentina.” and “Item 3—Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Argentina—Devaluation of the Argentine Peso and foreign exchange restrictions may adversely affect our results of operations, our capital expenditures and our ability to service our liabilities and pay dividends”.

The majority of our revenues are in Pesos whereas a portion of the costs regarding materials and supplies related to the construction and maintenance of our networks and services are incurred in foreign currencies. Also, the high level of competition limited our ability to transfer to our customers the fluctuations in the exchange rates between the Peso and the U.S. dollar and other major foreign currencies. In addition, any devaluation of the Peso against foreign currencies may increase operating costs (partially offset by the increase of revenues in foreign currencies), capital expenditures and the cost of debt, which will adversely affect our results of operations, considering the net effect on revenues and costs. Additionally, any significant devaluation of the Peso, will result in an increase in the cost of servicing our debt and, therefore, may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. See “Item 3—Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Argentina— Devaluation of the Argentine Peso and foreign exchange restrictions may adversely affect our results of operations, our capital expenditures and our ability to service our liabilities and pay dividends”.

The following tables show, for the periods indicated, certain information regarding the exchange rates for U.S. dollars, expressed in nominal Pesos per dollar (ask price published by Banco de la Nación Argentina). See “Item 10-Additional Information-Foreign Investment and Exchange Controls in Argentina”.

    

Average(1)

      

End of Period

Year Ended December 31, 2021

95.81

102.72

Year Ended December 31, 2022

 

130.87

 

177.16

Year Ended December 31, 2023

 

295.29

 

808.45

March 2024 (through March 15, 2024)

 

 

850.50

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

72

(1)Yearly data reflect average of month-end rates.

Sources: Banco de la Nación Argentina

Internal Growth

A monthly operational measure used in our services is ARPU, which we calculate by dividing adjusted total service revenues by the average number of customers during the period. ARPU is not a measure calculated in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards and our measure of ARPU may not be calculated in the same manner as similarly titled measures used by other companies. In particular, certain components of service revenues are excluded from ARPU calculations presented in this Annual Report. Management believes that this measure is helpful in assessing the development of the customer base of our services.

The following table shows certain information regarding calculation of ARPU as of the dates specified:

    

2023

    

2022

    

2021

Number of fixed telephony services lines (millions)(1)

3.2

3.2

3.3

Number IP fixed telephony services lines (millions)

1.5

1.1

0.7

ARPU in Argentina (in P$/month) (national + international) (2)

4,205.1

4,499.8

4,714.4

Internet access (millions)

 

4.1

 

4.1

 

4.2

ARPU Internet in Argentina (in P$/month) (2)

 

8,671.6

 

9,505.4

 

10,476.7

Mobile telephony services lines (millions)

 

23.3

 

22.4

 

22.3

Argentina’s customers (millions)

 

21.0

 

20.2

 

20.1

ARPU Mobile in Argentina (in P$/month) (2)

 

3,056.1

 

3,433.6

 

3,742.8

MBOU Mobile in Argentina (in Mb per user/month)

 

5,754.7

 

5,185.2

 

4,317.1

Núcleo’s customers (millions)

 

2.3

 

2.2

 

2.2

ARPU Núcleo´s (in P$/month) (3)

 

2,675.1

 

2,781.8

 

3,861.1

MBOU Núcleo (in Mb per user/month)

 

8,788.6

 

8,763.8

 

8,860.7

Cable TV customers (million)

 

3.4

 

3.5

 

3.6

ARPU Cable TV (in P$/month) (2)

 

8,591.2

 

9,363.7

 

11,423.4

(1)

Includes lines customers own usage, public telephony, Integrated Services Digital Network (“ISDN”) channels and Fibertel IP lines.

(2)

Includes restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 in accordance to IAS 29, for further information please see “—Years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021-Consolidated Results of Operations below”

(3)

Includes P$1,322.9, P$2,161.3 and P$3,332.0 related to the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 in accordance to IAS 29 as of December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Price of services

The LAD established that licensees of ICT services may freely set their prices provided such prices are fair and reasonable, to offset the costs of operation and to tend to the efficient supply and reasonable margin of operation. However, ENACOM is entitled to observe the prices we set if it understands that they do not comply with the provisions of Section 48 of the LAD. If prices were observed and we are forced to reduce them, our operating margins may be negatively affected.

On August 22, 2020, the PEN issued Decree No. 690/20, which amended the LAD. Decree No. 690/20 declared as “Essential Public Services and of Strategic Competition” the ICT services (which include fixed and mobile telephony, cable television and Internet services) and the access to telecommunication networks for and between licensees, and empowered ENACOM to guarantee their accessibility.

In this context, the Company requested a precautionary measure to suspend the application of the aforementioned ENACOM regulations and Decree No. 690/20. Currently, the precautionary measure is in force until August 20, 2024 through extensions of six-month periods.

For more information on Decree No. 690/20 and its regulating resolutions, see “Item 4 —Regulatory Authorities and Framework— Decree No. 690/20 - Amendment to the LAD - Controversy”.

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

73

The impact of the service price adjustments on our results of operations is particularly relevant as a result of inflationary pressures on our costs structure. If we are unable to adjust the prices of the services we provide based on inflation rates, our results of operations will be adversely affected.

Competition

The fixed and mobile telephony, cable television and Internet businesses in Argentina are competitive. We need to make significant investments to refurbish and maintain our existing network infrastructure to comply with regulatory obligations and to remain competitive with respect to the quality of our services. For more information, see “Item 4- The Business- Main Products and Services”.

Technology Developments and Capital Expenditures

Improvements in technology influence our customers’ demand for services and equipment. For example, demand for fixed-line telecommunications services has been affected by continued significant growth in mobile business. Growth in the telephony as well as cable television services businesses at present is being affected by the expansion of Broadband for individuals and corporations and our continuous updating of commercial and support systems. The increase in Broadband adoption has also proven to be a critical factor in facilitating the offering of Value Added Services to customers and the combination of product made available to customers.

In Internet services, we must constantly upgrade our access to technology and software, embrace emerging transmission technologies and improve the responsiveness, functionality, coverage and features of our services.

In the mobile business, to provide customers with new and better services, Telecom must enhance its mobile networks extending 4G/4G+ technology and bandwidth for mobile data transmission. Moreover, Telecom is developing an LTE infrastructure expeditiously, in response to regulatory requirements and development in the market for the mobile services. For more information regarding our LTE infrastructure developments, please see “Item 4—The Business—Mobile Telecommunications Services—Network and Equipment” and “Item 5—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Capital Expenditures.” We are continuing with the deployment and expansion of 5G technology that will allow us to expand our product portfolio and meet market demands in the future.

In addition, as new technologies develop, equipment may need to be replaced or upgraded, and network facilities (in particular, mobile and Internet network facilities) may need to be rebuilt in whole or in part, at substantial cost, to remain competitive. These enhancements and the implementation of new technologies will continue requiring increased capital expenditures. See “Item 4—Information on the Company—Capital Expenditures” and “Item 5—Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Capital Expenditures”.

Tax pressures and litigation

Local municipalities in the regions where we operate have introduced regulations and proposed various taxes and fees for the installation of infrastructure, equipment and expansion of fixed-line and mobile networks. Local and federal tax authorities have brought an increasing number of claims against us. We disagree with these proceedings and are generally contesting them. Also, jurisprudential changes in labor and pension matters have generated higher claims from employees and former employees and also increased claims from employees of a contractor or subcontractor alleging joint liability. We cannot assure you that current laws and regulations applicable to the economy generally or specifically to the telecommunications industry will not become more burdensome, that the claims will be resolved in our favor, or that any changes to the existing laws and regulations will not adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows as well.

(A)Consolidated Results of Operations

For 2023, we reported net loss of P$249,687 million as compared to 2022 net loss of P$640,379 million and net income of P$60,294 million in 2021. Net loss for 2023 decreased by P$390,692 million as compared to 2022. Net loss for 2022 increased by P$700,673 million as compared to 2021.

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

74

Consolidated revenues in 2023 amounted to P$2,059,101 million as compared to P$2,270,728 million in 2022. The decrease of P$211,627 million in 2023 (a 9.3% decrease) was mainly due to the fact that the inflation rate for the last twelve months amounted to 211.4% and the Company (and other competitors in the ICT industry) did not transfer the totality of this inflation to its prices. The decrease of P$310,315 million in 2022 (a 12% decrease) was mainly due to the fact that the inflation rate for the twelve months of 2022 amounted to 94.8% and the Company (and other competitors in the ICT industry) did not transfer the totality of this inflation to its prices.

In 2023, operating costs (including depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets) amounted to P$2,184,166 million, representing a decrease of P$1,005,031 million, or 31.5% as compared to 2022. The decrease in operating costs in 2023 was mainly due to the Goodwill impairment recognized during the year 2022 of P$759,523 million. In 2022, operating costs (including depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets) amounted to P$3,189,197 million, representing an increase of P$591,248 million, or 22.8% as compared to 2021. The increase in operating costs in 2022 was mainly due to the Goodwill impairment recognized during the year 2022. For additional information regarding the impairment of Goodwill, see Note 3.u.1) to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Telecom carries out its activities in Argentina and abroad (Paraguay, Uruguay, the United States and Chile). These operations are not analyzed as a separate segment by the Executive Committee and the CEO, who analyze the consolidated information of companies in Argentina and abroad, taking into account that the activities of foreign companies are not significant for Telecom. The operations that Telecom carries out abroad do not meet the aggregation criteria established by the standard to be grouped within the “Services rendered in Argentina” segment, and considering that they do not exceed any of the quantitative thresholds identified under IFRS Accounting Standards to qualify as reportable segments, they are grouped within the category “Other abroad segments” according to the requirements of the IFRS Accounting Standards 8.

However, since operations abroad are not material, the explanations set forth below reflect mainly developments and information attributable to our operations in Argentina.

Additionally, Telecom, through Micro Sistemas, develops activities in the fintech industry in Argentina, which are not analyzed as a separate segment by the Executive Committee and the CEO, since, as of December 31, 2023, activities by Micro Sistemas are not significant. In addition, the balances and transactions of Micro Sistemas do not exceed any of the quantitative thresholds identified under IFRS Accounting Standards to qualify as reportable segments.

(A.1) 2023 Compared to 2022

    

Year ended

    

  

    

  

December 31,

2023

2022

Total Change

 

(P$ million)

%  

(P$ million)

Revenues

2,059,101

 

2,270,728

 

(9.3)

 

(211,627)

Operating costs (without depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets)

(1,479,705)

 

(1,646,730)

 

(10.1)

 

167,025

Depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets

(704,461)

 

(1,542,467)

 

(54.3)

 

838,006

Operating loss

(125,065)

 

(918,469)

 

(86.4)

 

793,404

Earnings (losses) from associates and joint ventures

(1,888)

 

2,550

 

n/a

 

(4,438)

Finance costs

(634,307)

 

92,625

 

n/a

 

(726,932)

Other financial results, net

173,316

 

100,379

 

72.7

 

72,937

Income tax benefit

338,257

 

82,536

 

n/a

 

255,721

Net (loss)

(249,687)

 

(640,379)

 

(61.0)

 

390,692

 

 

 

Net (loss) attributable to:

Telecom Argentina (Controlling Company)

(257,730)

 

(647,208)

 

(60.2)

 

389,478

Non-controlling interest

8,043

 

6,829

 

17.8

 

1,214

 

 

 

Adjusted EBITDA(1)

579,396

623,998

(7.1)

(44,602)

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

75

(1)Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP measure, defined as our net (loss) income less income tax, financial results (finance costs and other financial results, net), earnings (losses) from associates and joint ventures, and depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets. For further information on the use of adjusted EBITDA, see “Item 5— Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Adjusted EBITDA”.

In 2023, net loss amounted to P$249,687 million, representing (12.1%) of consolidated revenues. The decrease in 2023 compared to 2022 was mainly due to a decrease in depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets of P$838,006 million (mainly due to the Goodwill impairment recognized during the year 2022 of P$759,523 million), and an increase in income tax benefit of P$255,721 million, which were partially offset by an increase in financial results of P$653,995 million and a decrease in consolidated revenues of P$211,627 million.

In 2023, Adjusted EBITDA totaled P$579,396 million, representing 28.1% of consolidated revenues. The decrease in 2023 compared to 2022 was mainly due to a decrease in consolidated revenues of P$211,627 million, partially offset by the decrease in operating cost (without depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets) of P$167,025 million.

Revenues

    

Year ended

    

  

    

  

December 31,

2023

2022

Total Change

 

(P$ million)

%  

(P$ million)

Mobile Services

 

829,552

 

912,773

 

(9.1)

 

(83,221)

Internet Services

 

449,904

 

503,671

 

(10.7)

 

(53,767)

Cable Television Services

 

363,367

 

407,645

 

(10.9)

 

(44,278)

Fixed and Data Services

 

244,009

 

277,224

 

(12.0)

 

(33,215)

Other services revenues

 

19,100

 

18,006

 

6.1

 

1,094

Services Revenues

 

1,905,932

 

2,119,319

 

(10.1)

 

(213,387)

Equipment revenues

 

153,169

 

151,409

 

1.2

 

1,760

Revenues

 

2,059,101

 

2,270,728

 

(9.3)

 

(211,627)

During 2023, total consolidated revenues decreased by 9.3% amounting to P$2,059,101 million as compared to P$2,270,728 million in 2022.

Despite the greater demand for services, consolidated revenues decreased mainly due to the fact that the inflation rate for the last twelve months amounted to 211.4% and the Company (and other competitors in the ICT industry) did not transfer the totality of this inflation to its prices.

Services revenues amounted to P$1,905,932 million in 2023, decreasing 10.1% as compared to P$2,119,319 million in 2022 and represented 92.6% of consolidated revenues. Equipment revenues amounted to P$153,169 million in 2023 as compared to P$151,409 million in 2022, and represented 7.4% of consolidated revenues.

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 increased consolidated revenues by P$929,271 million and P$1,732,020 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Consolidated revenues for 2023 and 2022 are comprised as follows:

Mobile Services

Mobile services revenues in 2023 amounted to P$829,552 million (a decrease of P$83,221 million or 9.1% as compared to 2022), being the principal contributor to our total services revenues for 2023 (43.5% of consolidated services revenues in 2023 as compared to 43.1% in 2022). Mobile internet services revenues represented 92% and 86% of the mobile services revenues as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

76

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in Mobile services revenues amounted to P$374,931 million and P$695,610 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Mobile services revenues in Argentina amounted to P$763,043 million (a decrease of P$71,638 million as compared to 2022). This decrease was mainly due to 11.0% decrease in the ARPU, partially offset by 3.8% increase in the number of customers.

Personal’s ARPU amounted to P$3,056.1 as of December 31, 2023 (compared to P$3,433.6 as of December 31, 2022). This decrease was mainly explained by the fact that, as a consequence of the 211.4% inflation in Argentina, the Company (and other competitors in the ICT industry) was unable to increase its prices during 2023 to the same extent as the increase in inflation (the effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in ARPU amounted to P$1,383.1 and P$2,613.5 as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively). Additionally, the decrease in ARPU is also explained by the fact that we granted greater discounts to customers in order to maintain the customer base, considering the intense competition in the market and an increase in the migration of customers from postpaid to prepaid services (which have a lower ARPU than postpaid customers).

Personal’s mobile customers amounted to 21.0 million and 20.2 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Out of the total mobile customers as of December 31, 2023, 61% were prepaid customers and 39% were postpaid customers, whereas as of December 31, 2022, 57% were prepaid customers and 43% were postpaid customers. During 2023, we observed a change in customer behavior, resulting in an increase in prepaid services customers of 11.2% and a decrease in the postpaid services customers of 6.1%. This decrease is mainly due to the challenging economic situation in Argentina. Additionally, the average churn rate per month amounted to 1.8% in 2023 (compared to a 2.3% average in 2022).

ARPU of Mobile Services in Argentina

A monthly operational measure used in the mobile services is ARPU, which we calculate by dividing adjusted total service revenues —excluding out collect wholesale roaming, cell site rental and reconnection fees revenues and others— (divided by 12 months) by the average number of customers during the period. ARPU is not a measure calculated in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards and our measure of ARPU may not be calculated in the same manner as similarly titled measures used by other companies. In particular, certain components of service revenues are excluded from Personal’s ARPU calculations presented in this Annual Report. Management believes that this measure is helpful in assessing the development of the subscriber base of mobile services. The following table shows the reconciliation of total service revenues to such revenues included in the ARPU calculations of 2023:

    

Year ended December 31,

2023

 

(P$ million)

Total Mobile service revenues

 

763,043

Components of service revenues not included in the ARPU calculation: outcollect wholesale roaming, cell sites rental, reconnection fees revenues and others

 

(6,308)

Adjusted total service revenues included in the ARPU calculation

 

756,735

Average number of customers during the year (millions)

 

20.6

Mobile services revenues generated in Paraguay amounted to P$66,509 million in 2023 (compared to P$78,092 million in 2022, representing a 14.8% decrease). The decrease was mainly due to the 3.8% decrease in Núcleo’s ARPU.

Núcleo’s ARPU amounted to P$2,675.1 as of December 31, 2023 (compared to P$2,781.8 as of December 31, 2022), representing a 3.8% decrease. The decrease in ARPU was mainly due to the fact that we granted greater discounts to customers in order to maintain the customer base, considering the intense competition.

Núcleo’s customer base remained stable amounting to 2.3 million customers as of December 31, 2023. Out of the total mobile customers as of December 31, 2023, 76% were prepaid customers and 24% were postpaid customers, whereas as of December 31, 2022, 79% were prepaid customers, and 21% were postpaid customers. Additionally, the average churn rate per month amounted to 2.9% and 3.3% in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

77

Internet Services

Internet services revenues amounted to P$449,904 million in 2023 (equivalent to 23.6% of total consolidated services revenues), decreasing P$53,767 million or 10.7% as compared to P$503,671 million in 2022. The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in internet services revenues amounted to P$200,402 million and P$384,618 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

The decrease in internet services revenues in 2023 was mainly due to the decrease in the Broadband Internet access ARPU of 8.8%.

The ARPU reached P$8,671.6 in 2023 as compared to P$9,505.4 in 2022. This decrease in ARPU is mainly explained by the fact that, as a consequence of the 211.4% inflation in Argentina, the Company (and other competitors in the ICT industry) was unable to increase its prices during 2023 to the same extent as the increase in inflation (the effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in ARPU amounted to P$3,844.1 and P$7,251.3 as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively).

The customer base remained stable amounting to 4.1 million in both 2023 and 2022, which was a product of the Company's efforts to maintain the customer base, considering the intense competition. Additionally, the churn rate per month amounted to 1.8% and 1.6% in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

In connection with initiatives to continue developing the experience of fixed internet service customers, towards the end of 2022, Personal doubled the internet speed to all of its residential customers (with HFC, FTTH technology), going from 50 Mb to 100 Mb, from 100 Mb to 300 Mb and from 300 Mb to 500 Mb. This process was carried out free of charge, without any additional management by customers. More than three million customers received an increase in the speed of their contracted service without modifying their commercial conditions.

As a consequence, customers with a service of 100 Mb or higher as of December 31, 2023 amounted to 3.5 million, an increase of 6.1% as a whole compared to 2022. As of December 31, 2023, these customers represented 85% of our total customer base, whereas as of December 31, 2022 they represented 79%.

ARPU of Internet Services in Argentina

A monthly operational measure used in the internet services is ARPU, which we calculate by dividing adjusted total service revenues - excluding connection and rehabilitation fees revenues and others - (divided by 12 months) by the average number of customers during the period. ARPU is not a measure calculated in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards and our measure of ARPU may not be calculated in the same manner as similarly titled measures used by other companies. In particular, certain components of service revenues are excluded from Internet’s ARPU calculations presented in this Annual Report. Management believes that this measure is helpful in assessing the development of the subscriber base of Internet services. The following table shows the reconciliation of total service revenues to such revenues included in the ARPU calculations of 2023:

    

Year ended December 31,

2023

(P$ million)

Total Internet service revenues

 

425,473

Components of service revenues not included in the ARPU calculation

 

-

Adjusted total service revenues included in the ARPU calculation

 

425,473

Average number of customers during the year (millions)

 

4.1

Cable Television Services

Cable television service revenues amounted to P$363,367 million in 2023 (equivalent to 19.1% of total consolidated services revenues), decreasing P$44,278 million or 10.9% as compared to revenues in 2022. The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in cable television services revenues amounted to P$167,433 million and P$311,085 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

78

The decrease in Cable television service revenues in 2023 was mainly due to the decrease in ARPU, a 8.2% decrease compared to 2022, and a 3.5% decrease in the customer base compared to 2022.

The ARPU amounted to P$8,591.2 as of December 31, 2023 compared to an ARPU of P$9,363.7 as of December 31, 2022. The decreased is mainly explained since inflation during 2023 amounted to 211.4%, the Company (and other competitors in the ICT industry) was unable to increase its prices during 2023 to the same extent as the increase in inflation (the effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in ARPU amounts to P$3,974.7 and P$7,158.4 as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively). Additionally, the economic situation in Argentina changed our customers’ consumption trends.

As of December 31, 2023, the customer base in Argentina amounted to 3.1 million customers, decreasing a 3.5% compared to 2022. Out of the total customers as of December 31, 2023, 1.4 million were Flow’s customer base and 1.2 million were Premium Package’s customer base, whereas as of December 31, 2022, 1. 3 million were Flow’s customer base and 1.3 were Premium Package’s customer base. This decrease is mainly due to the economic situation in Argentina and the changes in customers’ consumption trends. 31, 2022. Additionally, the average churn rate per month amounted to 1.8% and 1.3% in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

ARPU of Cable Television Services of Telecom Argentina

An important monthly operational measure used in the Cable Television services is ARPU, which we calculate by dividing adjusted total service revenues - excluding connection and administration fees, advertising services and others - (divided by 12 months) by the average number of customers during the period. ARPU is not a measure calculated in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards and our measure of ARPU may not be calculated in the same manner as similarly titled measures used by other companies. In particular, certain components of service revenues are excluded from Cable Television’s ARPU calculations presented in this Annual Report. Management believes that this measure is helpful in assessing the development of the subscriber base of cable television services. The following table shows the reconciliation of total cable television service revenues to such revenues included in the ARPU calculations of 2023:

    

Year ended December 31,

2023

(P$ million)

Total Cable television service revenues

 

326,852

Components of service revenues not included in the ARPU calculation:

Connection and Reconnection fees and others

 

(885)

Adjusted total service revenues included in the ARPU calculation

 

325,967

Average number of customers during the year (millions)

 

3.2

Fixed and Data Services

Revenues generated by fixed and data services amounted to P$244,009 million in 2023 (representing 12.8% of our total consolidated services revenues) decreasing P$33,215 million or 12.0% as compared to P$277,224 million in 2022. The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in fixed and data services revenues amounted to P$108,946 million and P$211,920 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

The decrease in fixed and data services in 2023 was mainly due to a decrease in ARPU, decreasing 6.5% as compared to 2022, and a decrease in the customer base of 4.0% compared to 2022.

The ARPU of fixed telephony services in Argentina decreased to P$4,205.1 in 2023 from P$4,499.8 in 2022. This decrease is mainly explained because, as a consequence of the 211.4% inflation in Argentina during 2023 the Company (and other competitors in the ICT industry) was unable to increase its prices during 2023 to the same extent as the increase in inflation (the effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in ARPU amounts to P$2,079.6 and P$3,496.2 as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively).

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

79

The customer base of fixed telephony services amounted to 2.9 million in 2023, compared to 3.0 million in 2022. The customer base decreased mainly due to changes in consumption behaviour of customers.

Equipment

Equipment revenues amounted to P$153,169 million in 2023 (representing 7.4% of our total consolidated revenues) increasing P$1,760 million or 1.2% as compared to 2022.

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in equipment revenues amounted to P$69,328 million and P$115,257 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

The increase was mainly due to higher handsets sold as compared to 2022 (13%).

Operating costs (without depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets)

    

Year ended

    

  

    

  

December 31,

2023

2022

Total Change

 

(P$ million)

%  

(P$ million)

Employee benefit expenses and severance payments

(514,462)

 

(568,830)

 

(9.6)

 

54,368

Interconnection and transmission costs

(60,793)

 

(69,927)

 

(13.1)

 

9,134

Fees for services, maintenance, materials and supplies

(258,717)

 

(275,459)

 

(6.1)

 

16,742

Taxes and fees with the Regulatory Authority

(158,189)

 

(174,360)

 

(9.3)

 

16,171

Commissions and advertising

(120,602)

 

(137,536)

 

(12.3)

 

16,934

Cost of equipment

(111,078)

 

(107,560)

 

3.3

 

(3,518)

Programming and content costs

(116,172)

 

(142,441)

 

(18.4)

 

26,269

Bad debt expenses

(44,652)

 

(57,118)

 

(21.8)

 

12,466

Other operating expenses

(95,040)

 

(113,499)

 

(16.3)

 

18,459

Total operating costs (without depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets)

(1,479,705)

 

(1,646,730)

 

(10.1)

 

167,025

Total operating costs (without depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets) decreased P$167,025 million in 2023, amounting to P$1,479,705 million, representing a 10.1% decrease as compared to 2022.

Despite being in a context in which year-on-year inflation was 211.4%, the Company has managed to make its operating costs more efficient and achieve a reduction.

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in Operating costs (without depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets) amounted to P$678,224 million and P$1,256,787 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Employee benefit expenses and severance payments

Employee benefit expenses and severance payments decreased P$54,368 million to P$514,462 million in 2023 as compared to P$568,830 million in 2022. The decrease was mainly due to lower severance payments and a reduction in headcount of 2.1%, amounting to 21,262 employees as of December 31, 2023, and, partially offset by increases in salaries agreed by the Company with several trade unions for unionized employees, and also for non-unionized employees, together with related social security charges.

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in Employee benefit expenses and severance payments amounted to P$225,582 million and P$431,646 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

80

Interconnection and transmission costs

Interconnection and transmission costs (including charges for TLRD, Roaming and cost of international outbound calls and lease of circuits) decreased P$9,134 million, amounting to P$60,793 million in 2023 as compared to P$69,927 million in 2022, respectively. The decrease was mainly due to new dynamics of the business that imply an optimization of links and sites and partially offset by increases in the foreign exchange rate in relation to fixed services denominated in U.S. Dollars, which have accelerated since August 2023.

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in Interconnection and transmission costs amounted to P$26,904 million and P$53,308 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Fees for services, maintenance, materials and supplies

Fees for services, maintenance, materials and supplies decreased P$16,742 million, or 6.1%, amounting to P$258,717 million in 2023 as compared to P$275,459 million in 2022. The variation is mainly explained by the efficiency and management of resources through which maintenance and material costs decreased by P$9,685 compared to 2022 and lower costs of call center fees and other fees for services for P$7,057 compared to 2022.

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in Fees for services, maintenance, materials and supplies amounted to P$118,509 million and P$211,428 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Taxes and fees with the Regulatory Authority

Taxes and fees with the Regulatory Authority, including turnover tax, municipal taxes and other taxes, decreased P$16,171 million or 9.3%, amounting to P$158,189 million in 2023 as compared to P$174,360 million in 2022. The decrease was mainly to the effect of the decrease in sales in 2023. Taxes and fees with the Regulatory Authority represent a 7.7% of total revenues in 2023 and 2022.

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in Taxes and fees with the Regulatory Authority amounted to P$71,630 million and P$133,010 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Commissions and advertising

Commissions and advertising, decreased P$16,934 million or 12.3%, amounting to P$120,602 million in 2023, as compared to P$137,536 million in 2022. The decrease is mainly due to lower charges for agent commissions, collection commissions and advertising services costs.

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in Commissions and advertising amounted to P$55,383 million and P$104,322 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Cost of equipment

Cost of equipment increased P$3,518 million, amounting to P$111,078 million in 2023 as compared to P$107,560 million for 2022. The variation is mainly due to an increase in equipment sold of 13%.

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in Cost of equipment amounted to P$59,534 million and P$84,207 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Programming and content costs

Programming and content costs decreased by P$26,269 million amounting to P$116,172 million in 2023 as compared to P$142,441 million in 2022. The decrease was mainly due to commercial efficiency, partially offset by price increases in almost all cable television signals.

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

81

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in Programming and content costs amounted to P$52,323 million and P$108,714 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Bad debt expenses

Bad debt expenses decreased P$12,466 million, amounting to P$44,652 million for 2023, representing approximately 2.2% and 2.5% of the revenues in 2023 and 2022, respectively. The decrease is mainly due to continuing credit recovery actions.

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in Bad debt expenses amounted to P$21,489 million and P$43,623 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Other operating expenses

Other operating expenses (which include legal claims and contingent liabilities, energy and other public services, insurance, rentals and internet capacity, among others) decreased P$18,459 million to P$95,040 million in 2023 as compared to P$113,499 million in 2022. The decrease is mainly due to lower charges in legal claims and contingent liabilities, rentals and internet capacity, energy and other public services, among others.

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in Other operating expenses amounts to P$46,870 million and P$86,529 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Adjusted EBITDA

An important operational performance measure used by the Company’s Chief Operating Decision Maker (as this term is defined in IFRS Accounting Standards 8) is Adjusted EBITDA. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as our net (loss) income less income tax, financial results, Earnings (losses) from associates and joint ventures, and depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets. We believe Adjusted EBITDA facilitates company-to-company operating performance comparisons by backing out potential differences caused by variations such as capital structures, taxation and the useful lives and book depreciation and amortization of PP&E and intangible assets, which may vary for different companies for reasons unrelated to operating performance. Although Adjusted EBITDA is not a measure defined in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards (a non-GAAP measure), our Management believes that this measure facilitates operating performance comparisons from period to period and provides useful information to investors, financial analysts and the public in their evaluation of our operating performance. Adjusted EBITDA does not have a standardized meaning and, accordingly, our definition of Adjusted EBITDA may not be comparable to Adjusted EBITDA as used by other companies.

The following table shows the reconciliation of Net loss to Adjusted EBITDA:

    

Year ended December 31,

    

  

    

  

2023

    

2022

    

Total Change

 

(P$ million)

%  

(P$ million)

Net (loss)

(249,687)

 

(640,379)

 

(61.0)

 

390,692

Income tax benefit

(338.257)

 

(82,536)

 

n/a

 

(255,721)

Other financial results, net

(173,316)

 

(100,379)

 

72.7

 

(72,937)

Finance costs

634,307

 

(92,625)

 

n/a

 

726,932

Earnings (losses) from associates and joint ventures

1,888

 

(2,550)

 

n/a

 

4,438

Operating loss

(125,065)

 

(918,469)

 

(86.4)

 

793,404

Depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets

704,461

 

1,542,467

 

(54.3)

 

(838,006)

Adjusted EBITDA

579,396

 

623,998

 

(7.1)

 

(44,602)

Our consolidated Adjusted EBITDA amounted to P$579,396 million in 2023, representing a decrease of P$44,602 million or 7.1% as compared to P$623,998 million in 2022. Adjusted EBITDA represented 28.1% and 27.5% of our total consolidated revenues in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

82

Depreciation, Amortization and Impairment of Fixed Assets

Depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets decreased P$838,006 million, amounting to P$704,461 million in 2023 as compared to P$1,542,467 million in 2022.

The decrease was mainly due to the fact that in 2022, the Management identified the need to review the estimate of the recoverable value of Goodwill assigned to the cash-generating unit of Telecom (CGU Telecom), which comprises the Company and its subsidiaries in Argentina. From such analysis, it concluded that the book value of CGU Telecom exceeded its recoverable value. Consequently, Goodwill was impaired by P$759,523 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023. For further information refer to Note 3.u.1) of our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Additionally, depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets of the year includes the impact of the depreciation and amortization of the capital expenditures subsequent to December 31, 2022, partially offset by the effect of those assets that ended their useful life after that same date.

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in Depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets amounted to P$606,165 million and P$1,478,838 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Operating loss

In 2023, our consolidated operating loss amounted to P$125,065 million, representing a decrease of P$793,404 million as compared to 2022. Operating loss represented (6.1)% and (40.4)% of consolidated revenues in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

    

Year ended December 31,

    

% of Change

    

2023

    

2022

    

2023-2022

Increase/

(P$ million / %)

(Decrease)

Adjusted EBITDA (1)

579,396

 

623,998

 

(7.1)

As % of revenues

28.1

 

27.5

 

Depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets

(704,461)

 

(1,542,467)

 

(54.3)

As % of revenues

(34.2)

 

(67.9)

 

Operating loss

(125,065)

 

(918,469)

 

(86.4)

As % of revenues

(6.1)

(40.4)

(1)Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP measure, defined as our net (loss) income less income tax, financial results (finance costs and other financial results, net), earnings (losses) from associates and joint ventures, and depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets. For further information on the use of adjusted EBITDA, see “Item 5— Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Adjusted EBITDA”.

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

83

Financial Results, Net

    

Year ended December 31,

    

Total change

2023

2022

$

%  

Interests on borrowings

 

(58,478)

 

(46,559)

(11,919)

25.6

Remeasurement in borrowings

 

49,796

 

5,400

44,396

n/a

Foreign currency exchange gains (losses) on borrowings

 

(624,826)

 

133,909

(758,735)

n/a

Borrowings renegotiation results

 

(799)

 

(125)

(674)

n/a

Total finance costs

 

(634,307)

 

92,625

(726,932)

n/a

Other foreign currency exchange gains (losses)

 

(59,786)

 

1,170

(60,956)

n/a

Fair value gains/(losses) on financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

 

64,323

 

(39,496)

103,819

n/a

Other interests, net

 

15,430

 

6,026

9,404

n/a

RECPAM

 

187,819

 

165,557

22,262

13.4

Other

 

(34,470)

 

(32,878)

(1,592)

4.8

Total other financial results, net

 

173,316

 

100,379

72,937

72.7

Total financial results, net

 

(460,991)

 

193,004

(653,995)

n/a

We incurred in financial loss, net of P$460,991 million in 2023, as compared to financial income, net of P$193,004 million in 2022. Financial Results, net in 2023 mainly include losses generated by (i) foreign exchange differences measured in real terms of P$684,612 million as a result of the U.S. Dollar appreciating 118% against the Argentine Peso compared to a 211.4% inflation (compared to a gain of P$135,079 million in 2022 and 72.5% devaluation of the Argentine Peso against the US dollar compared to a 94.8% inflation in 2022), (ii) interest on borrowings measured in real terms of P$58,478 million (compared to P$46,559 million in 2022), and (iii) other financial results of P$19,839 million (compared to P$26,977 million in 2022). These losses were partially offset by gains generated by (i) the effect generated by the restatement in current currency, which amounted to a gain of P$187,819 million (compared to P$165,557 million in 2022), (ii) fair value gains on financial assets at fair value through profit or loss of P$64,323 million (compared to a loss of P$39,496 million in 2022) and (iii) gains from remeasurement in borrowings of P$49,796 million (compared to P$5,400 million in 2022).

Income Tax

The Company’s income tax charge includes the following effects: (i) the current tax payable for the year pursuant to tax legislation applicable to each of Telecom Argentina and its subsidiaries; (ii) the effect of applying the deferred tax method on temporary differences arising out of the asset and liability valuation according to tax versus financial accounting criteria and; (iii) the effects of the income tax inflation adjustment.

Income tax amounted to a gain of P$338.257 million in 2023 as compared to a gain of P$82,536 million in 2022. It includes mainly the following effects: (i) regarding current tax expenses, Telecom’s generated tax loss in fiscal year 2023 amounting to P$2,899 million and tax gain in fiscal year 2022 amounting to P$54,562 million, and (ii) regarding the deferred tax, in 2023 Telecom recorded a deferred tax gain of P$341,156 million compared to a deferred tax gain of P$27,974 million in 2022.

For more information on income tax, see Notes 3 and 15 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Net (loss)

Telecom Argentina recorded a net loss of P$249,687 million in 2023 as compared to a net loss of P$640,379 million for 2022 and represents (12.1)% of consolidated revenues as compared to (28.2)% in 2022. The loss was mainly due to the operating loss amounting to P$125,065 million and financial result, net of P$460,991 million, partially offset by the income tax benefit amounting to P$338.257 million.

Net loss attributable to controlling shareholders amounted to P$257,730 million in 2023 as compared to a net loss of P$647,208 million in 2022.

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

84

(A.2) 2022 Compared to 2021

    

Year ended

    

  

    

  

December 31,

    

2022

    

2021

    

Total Change

 

(P$ million)

%  

(P$ million)

Revenues

2,270,728

 

2,581,043

 

(12.0)

 

(310,315)

Operating costs (without depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets)

(1,646,730)

 

(1,775,677)

 

(7.3)

 

128,947

Depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets

 

(1,542,467)

 

(822,272)

 

87.6

 

(720,195)

Operating loss

 

(918,469)

 

(16,906)

 

n/a

 

(901,563)

Earnings from associates and joint ventures

2,550

 

2,398

 

6.3

 

152

Finance costs

92,625

 

174,096

 

(46.8)

 

(81,471)

Other financial results, net

100,379

 

102,811

 

(2.4)

 

(2,432)

Income tax benefit (expense)

82,536

 

(202,105)

 

n/a

 

284,641

Net (loss) income

 

(640,379)

 

60,294

 

n/a

 

(700,673)

Net (loss) income attributable to:

 

 

 

 

Telecom Argentina (Controlling Company)

 

(647,208)

 

52,559

 

n/a

 

(699,767)

Non-controlling interest

 

6,829

 

7,735

 

(11.7)

 

(906)

Adjusted EBITDA(1)

623,998

805,366

(22.5)

(181,368)

(1)Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP measure, defined as our net (loss) income less income tax, financial results (financial costs and other financial results, net), earnings from associates and joint ventures, and depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets. For further information on the use of adjusted EBITDA, see “Item 5— Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Adjusted EBITDA”.

In 2022, net loss amounted to P$640,379 million, representing (28.2%) of consolidated revenues. The decrease in 2022 compared to 2021 was mainly due to a decrease in consolidated revenues of P$310,315 million, an increase in impairment of Fixed Assets of P$759,523 million, and a decrease in financial results of P$83,903 million, which were partially offset by a decrease in operating cost (without depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets) of P$128,947 million, as well as a decrease in income tax expense of P$284,641 million.

In 2022, Adjusted EBITDA totaled P$623,998 million, representing 27.5% of consolidated revenues. The decrease in 2022 compared to 2021 was mainly due to a decrease in consolidated revenues of P$310,315 million, partially offset by the decrease in operating cost (without depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets) of P$128,947 million.

Revenues

    

Year ended

    

  

    

  

December 31,

    

2022

    

2021

    

Total Change

 

(P$million)

%  

(P$million)

Mobile Services

 

912,773

 

977,421

 

(6.6)

 

(64,648)

Internet Services

 

503,671

 

550,600

 

(8.5)

 

(46,929)

Cable Television Services

 

407,645

 

500,750

 

(18.6)

 

(93,105)

Fixed and Data Services

 

277,224

 

357,471

 

(22.4)

 

(80,247)

Other services revenues

 

18,006

 

14,057

 

28.1

 

3,949

Services Revenues

 

2,119,319

 

2,400,299

 

(11.7)

 

(280,980)

Equipment revenues

 

151,409

 

180,744

 

(16.2)

 

(29,335)

Revenues

 

2,270,728

 

2,581,043

 

(12.0)

 

(310,315)

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

85

During 2022, total consolidated revenues decreased by 12% amounting to P$2,270,728 million as compared to P$2,581,043 million in 2021.

Despite the greater demand for services, consolidated revenues decreased mainly due to the fact that the inflation rate for the last twelve months amounted to 94.8% and the Company did not transfer the totality of this inflation to its prices.

Services revenues amounted to P$2,119,319 million in 2022, decreasing 11.7% as compared to P$2,400,299 million in 2021 and represented 93.3% of consolidated revenues. Equipment revenues amounted to P$151,409 million in 2022 as compared to P$180,744 million in 2021, and represented 6.7% of consolidated revenues.

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 increased consolidated revenues by P$1,732,020 million and P$2,223,695 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Consolidated revenues for 2022 and 2021 are comprised as follows:

Mobile Services

Mobile services revenues in 2022 amounted to P$912,773 million (a decrease of P$64,648 million or 6.6% as compared to 2021), being the principal contributor to our total services revenues for 2022 (43.1% of consolidated services revenues in 2022 as compared to 40.7% in 2021). Mobile internet services revenues represented 86% and 75% of the mobile services revenues as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in Mobile services revenues amounted to P$695,610 million and P$841.975 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Mobile services revenues in Argentina amounted to P$834,681 million (a decrease of P$41,390 million as compared to 2021). This decrease was mainly due to 8.3% decrease in the ARPU, partially offset by a 0.6% increase in the number of customers.

Personal’s ARPU amounted to P$3,433.6 as of December 31, 2022 (compared to P$3,742.8 as of December 31, 2021). This decrease was mainly explained by the fact that, as a consequence of the 94.8% inflation in Argentina, the Company (and other competitors in the ICT industry) was unable to increase its prices during 2022 to the same extent as the increase in inflation (the effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in ARPU amounted to P$2,613.5 and P$3,222.2 as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively). Such decrease was partially offset by an increase in the migration of customers from prepaid to postpaid services (which have a higher ARPU than prepaid customers). Additionally, the decrease in ARPU is also explained by the fact that we granted greater discounts to customers in order to maintain the customer base, considering the intense competition in the market.

Personal’s mobile customers amounted to 20.2 million and 20.1 million as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Out of the total mobile customers as of December 31, 2022, 57% were prepaid customers and 43% were postpaid customers, whereas as of December 31, 2021, 59% were prepaid customers and 41% were postpaid customers. The increase in 2022 was mainly explained by our commercial efforts to maintain and attract new customers to our services in a scenario of intense competition between the different market participants. Additionally, the average churn rate per month amounted to 2.3% in 2022 (compared to a 1.5% average in 2021).

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

86

ARPU of Mobile Services in Argentina

A monthly operational measure used in the mobile services is ARPU, which we calculate by dividing adjusted total service revenues —excluding out collect wholesale roaming, cell site rental and reconnection fee revenues and others— (divided by 12 months) by the average number of customers during the period. ARPU is not a measure calculated in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards and our measure of ARPU may not be calculated in the same manner as similarly titled measures used by other companies. In particular, certain components of service revenues are excluded from Personal’s ARPU calculations presented in this Annual Report. Management believes that this measure is helpful in assessing the development of the subscriber base of mobile services. The following table shows the reconciliation of total service revenues to such revenues included in the ARPU calculations of 2022 and 2021:

    

Year ended December 31,

 

Year ended December 31,

2022

2021

   

(P$million)

 

(P$million)

Total Mobile service revenues

834,681

 

876,071

Components of service revenues not included in the ARPU calculation: outcollect wholesale roaming, cell sites rental, reconnection fees revenues and others

(6,677)

(13,017)

Adjusted total service revenues included in the ARPU calculation

(828,004)

863,054

Average number of customers during the year (millions)

20.1

19.2

Mobile services revenues generated in Paraguay amounted to P$78,092 million in 2022 (compared to P$101,350 million in 2021, representing a 22.9% decrease). The decrease was mainly due to a 28% decrease in Núcleo’s ARPU, partially offset by the appreciation of the Guaraní against the Argentine Peso.

Núcleo’s ARPU amounted to P$2,781.8 as of December 31, 2022 (compared to P$3,861.1 as of December 31, 2021), representing a 28% decrease. The decrease in ARPU was mainly due to the fact that we granted greater discounts to customers in order to maintain the customer base, considering the intense competition and the widespread use of fixed internet, which was partially offset by an increase in the migration of customers from prepaid to postpaid services (which have a higher ARPU than prepaid customers).

Núcleo’s customer base remained stable amounting to 2.3 million customers as of December 31, 2022. Out of the total mobile customers as of December 31, 2022, 79% were prepaid customers and 21% were postpaid customers, whereas as of December 31, 2021, 82% were prepaid customers, and 18% were postpaid customers. Additionally, the average churn rate per month amounted to 3.3% in 2022 and 2021.

Internet Services

Internet services revenues amounted to P$503,671 million in 2022 (equivalent to 23.8% of total consolidated services revenues), decreasing P$46,929 million or 8.5% as compared to P$550,600 million in 2021. The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in internet services revenues amounted to P$384,618 million and P$474,252 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

The decrease in internet services revenues in 2022 was mainly due to the decrease in the Broadband Internet access ARPU of 9.3% and in the customer base of 3.1%.

The ARPU reached P$9,505.4 in 2022 as compared to P$10,476.7 in 2021. This decrease in ARPU is mainly explained by the fact that, as a consequence of the 94.8% inflation in Argentina, the Company (and other competitors in the ICT industry) was unable to increase its prices during 2022 to the same extent as the increase in inflation (the effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in ARPU amounted to P$7,251.3 and P$9,024.4 as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively). The decrease is also explained by the discounts granted by the Company to maintain its customer base due to the intense competition in the market.

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

87

The customer base in 2022 amounted to 4.1 million compared to 4.2 million in 2021. The decrease in the customer base was mainly due to the intense competition between the different market participants. The decrease is further explained by a decrease in accesses in our xDSL (total digital subscriber line) network, which have overall lower average connection speeds than our HFC and FTTH network accesses, where we have observed growth. Additionally, the churn rate per month amounted to 1.6% and 1.5% in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

In connection with initiatives to continue developing the experience of fixed internet service customers, towards the end of 2022 Personal doubled the internet speed to all of its residential customers (with HFC, FTTH technology), going from 50 Mb to 100 Mb, from 100 Mb to 300 Mb and from 300 Mb to 500 Mb. This process was carried out free of charge, without any additional management by customers. More than three million customers received an increase in the speed of their contracted service without modifying their commercial conditions. As a consequence, customers with a service of 100 Mb or higher as of December 31, 2022 amounted to 3.3 million, an increase of 140.9% as a whole compared to 2021. As of December 31, 2022, these customers represented 79% of our total customer base, whereas as of December 31, 2021 they represented 32%.

ARPU of Internet Services in Argentina

A monthly operational measure used in the internet services is ARPU, which we calculate by dividing adjusted total service revenues - excluding connection and rehabilitation fees revenues and others - (divided by 12 months) by the average number of customers during the period. ARPU is not a measure calculated in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards and our measure of ARPU may not be calculated in the same manner as similarly titled measures used by other companies. In particular, certain components of service revenues are excluded from Internet’s ARPU calculations presented in this Annual Report. Management believes that this measure is helpful in assessing the development of the subscriber base of Internet services. The following table shows the reconciliation of total service revenues to such revenues included in the ARPU calculations of 2022 and 2021:

Year ended December 31, 

 

Year ended December 31, 

2022

2021

    

(P$million)

 

(P$million)

Total Internet service revenues

481,657

 

529,810

Components of service revenues not included in the ARPU calculation

 

Adjusted total service revenues included in the ARPU calculation

 

481,657

529,810

Average number of customers during the year (millions)

 

4.2

4.2

Cable Television Services

Cable television service revenues amounted to P$407,645 million in 2022 (equivalent to 19.2% of total consolidated services revenues), decreasing P$93,105 million or 18.6% as compared to revenues in 2021. The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023, included in cable television services revenues, amounted to P$311,085 million and P$431,568 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

The decrease in Cable television service revenues in 2022 was mainly due to the decrease in ARPU, a 18% decrease compared to 2021, and a 2.3% decrease in the customer base compared to 2021.

The ARPU amounted to P$9,363.7 as of December 31, 2022 compared to an ARPU of P$11,423.4 as of December 31, 2021. The decreased is mainly explained since inflation during 2022 amounted to 94.8%, the Company (and other competitors in the ICT industry) was unable to increase its prices during 2022 to the same extent as the increase in inflation (the effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in ARPU amounts to P$7,158.4 and P$9,846.9 as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively). ARPU was also affected by changes in customer consumption trends, which showed an increase in streaming and OTT services compared to 2021, partially offset by the migration from a basic service to Premium or Flow services (where ARPUs are higher than in basic services).

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

88

As of December 31, 2022, the customer base in Argentina amounted to 3.5 million customers compared to 3.6 million customers in 2021. This decrease is mainly due to the economic situation in Argentina and the changes in customers’ consumption trends as mentioned above. However, our Flow platform continues to show a good performance, and during 2022, Flow’s customer base reached 1.3 million increasing by 15% compared to the same period in 2021. Additionally, the average churn rate per month amounted to 1.3% and 1.1% in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

ARPU of Cable Television Services of Telecom Argentina

An important monthly operational measure used in the Cable Television services is ARPU, which we calculate by dividing adjusted total service revenues - excluding connection and administration fees, advertising services and others - (divided by 12 months) by the average number of customers during the period. ARPU is not a measure calculated in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards and our measure of ARPU may not be calculated in the same manner as similarly titled measures used by other companies. In particular, certain components of service revenues are excluded from Cable Television’s ARPU calculations presented in this Annual Report. Management believes that this measure is helpful in assessing the development of the subscriber base of cable television services. The following table shows the reconciliation of total cable television service revenues to such revenues included in the ARPU calculations of 2022 and 2021:

    

Year ended December 31,

    

Year ended December 31,

2022

2021

(P$million)

 

(P$million)

Total Cable television service revenues

371,444

 

455,879

Components of service revenues not included in the ARPU calculation: connection and administration fees, advertising services and others

 

(1,622)

(1,784)

Adjusted total service revenues included in the ARPU calculation

 

369,822

454,095

Average number of customers during the year (millions)

 

3.3

3.3

Fixed and Data Services

Revenues generated by fixed and data services amounted to P$277,224 million in 2022 (representing 13.1% of our total consolidated services revenues), decreasing P$80,247 million or 22.4% as compared to P$357,471 million in 2021. The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in fixed and data services revenues amounted to P$211,920 million and P$308,150 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

The decrease in fixed and data services in 2022 was mainly due to a decrease in ARPU, decreasing 4.6% as compared to 2021, and a decrease in the customer base of 21% compared to 2021.

The ARPU of fixed telephony services in Argentina decreased to P$4,499.8 in 2022 from P$4,714.4 in 2021. This decrease is mainly explained because, as a consequence of the 94.8% inflation in Argentina during 2022 the Company (and other competitors in the ICT industry) was unable to increase its prices during 2022 to the same extent as the increase in inflation (the effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in ARPU amounts to P$3,496.2 and P$4,068.2 as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively).

The customer base amounted to 1.9 million in 2022, compared to 2.4 million in 2021. The customer base decreased mainly due to changes in consumption behaviour of customers.

Equipment

Equipment revenues amounted to P$151,409 million in 2022 (a decrease of P$29,335 million or 16.2% as compared to 2021). The decrease was mainly due to lower handsets sold as compared to 2021 (15%) and the fact that the Company did not transfer all of the year’s inflation to its prices.

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

89

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in equipment revenues amounted to P$115,257 million and P$155,735 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Operating costs (without depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets)

Year ended December 31,

    

    

    

2022

    

2021

    

Total Change

    

(P$million)

%  

    

(P$million)

Employee benefit expenses and severance payments

 

(568,830)

 

(556,999)

 

2.1

 

(11,831)

Interconnection and transmission costs

 

(69,927)

 

(92,578)

 

(24.5)

 

22,651

Fees for services, maintenance, materials and supplies

 

(275,459)

 

(299,848)

 

(8.1)

 

24,389

Taxes and fees with the Regulatory Authority

 

(174,360)

 

(198,619)

 

(12.2)

 

24,259

Commissions and advertising

 

(137,536)

 

(147,962)

 

(7.0)

 

10,426

Cost of equipment

 

(107,560)

 

(127,151)

 

(15.4)

 

19,591

Programming and content costs

 

(142,441)

 

(175,606)

 

(18.9)

 

33,165

Bad debt expenses

 

(57,118)

 

(48,424)

 

18.0

 

(8,694)

Other operating expenses

 

(113,499)

 

(128,490)

 

(11.7)

 

14,991

Total operating costs (without depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets)

 

(1,646,730)

 

(1,775,677)

(7.3)

 

128,947

Total operating costs (without depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets) decreased P$128,947 million in 2022, amounting to P$1,646,730 million, representing a 7.3% decrease as compared to 2021. The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in Operating costs (without depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets) amounted to P$1,256,787 million and P$1,532,292 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Employee benefit expenses and severance payments

Employee benefit expenses and severance payments increased P$11,831 million to P$568,830 million in 2022 as compared to P$556,999 million in 2021. The increase was mainly due to higher severance payments and increases in salaries agreed by the Company with several trade unions for unionized employees, and also for non-unionized employees, together with related social security charges, and, partially offset by a decrease in net payroll of 3.8%, amounting to 21,729 employees as of December 31, 2022.

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in Employee benefit expenses and severance payments amounted to P$431,646 million and P$479,170 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Interconnection and transmission costs

Interconnection and transmission costs (including charges for TLRD, Roaming and cost of international outbound calls and lease of circuits) decreased P$22,651 million, amounting to P$69,927 million in 2022 as compared to P$92,578 million in 2021, respectively. The decrease was mainly due to new dynamics of the business that imply an optimization of links and sites and the lower variation of the foreign exchange rate compared with the inflation rate (72.5% devaluation of the Argentine Peso against the US dollar compared to a 94.8% inflation).

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in Interconnection and transmission costs amounted to P$53,308 million and P$79,807 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Fees for services, maintenance, materials and supplies

Fees for services, maintenance, materials and supplies decreased P$24,389 million, or 8.1%, amounting to P$275,459 million in 2022 as compared to P$299,848 million in 2021. The variation is mainly explained by the efficiency and management of resources through which maintenance and material costs decreased by P$29,092 million compared to 2021, partially offset by higher costs of call center fees and other fees for services for P$4,615 million compared to 2021.

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

90

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in Fees for services, maintenance, materials and supplies amounted to P$211,428 million and P$259,412 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Taxes and fees with the Regulatory Authority

Taxes and fees with the Regulatory Authority, including turnover tax, municipal taxes and other taxes, decreased P$24,259 million or 12.2%, amounting to P$174,360 million in 2022 as compared to P$198,619 million in 2021. The decrease was mainly to the effect of the decrease in sales in 2022. Taxes and fees with the Regulatory Authority represent a 7.7% of total consolidated revenues in 2022 and 2021.

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in Taxes and fees with the Regulatory Authority amounted to P$133,010 million and P$171,145 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Commissions and advertising

Commissions and advertising decreased P$10,426 million or 7%, amounting to P$137,536 million in 2022, as compared to P$147,962 million in 2021. The decrease is mainly due to lower charges for agent commissions, partially offset by an increase in advertising services costs related to Personal Pay fintech campaigns and cybersecurity services.

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in Commissions and advertising amounted to P$104,322 million and P$127,378 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Cost of equipment

Cost of equipment decreased P$19,591 million, amounting to P$107,560 million in 2022 as compared to P$127,151 million for 2021. The variation is mainly due to a decrease in handsets sold of 15% and the fact that the increase in average cost of handset (68%) was lower than the inflation rate of the year (94.8%).

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in Cost of equipment amounted to P$84,207 million and P$111,063 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Programming and content costs

Programming and content costs decreased by P$33,165 million amounting to P$142,441 million in 2022 as compared to P$175,606 million in 2021. The decrease was mainly due to commercial efficiency, partially offset by price increases in almost all cable television signals.

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in Programming and content costs amounted to P$108,714 million and P$151,405 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Bad debt expenses

Bad debt expenses increased P$8,694 million, amounting to P$57,118 million for 2022, representing approximately 2.5% and 1.9% of the consolidated revenues in 2022 and 2021, respectively. The increase is mainly due to the deterioration of the economic context in Argentina, which has a direct impact on bad debt rates. The lower percentage of bad debts in 2021 is related to post-pandemic credit recovery actions.

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in Bad debt expenses amounted to P$43,623 million and P$41,677 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

91

Other operating expenses

Other operating expenses (which include legal claims and contingent liabilities, energy and other public services, insurance, rentals and internet capacity, among others) decreased P$14,991 million to P$113,499 million in 2022 as compared to P$128,490 million in 2021. The decrease is mainly due to lower charges in all items.

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in Other operating expenses amounts to P$86,529 million and P$111,235 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Adjusted EBITDA

An important operational performance measure used by the Company’s Chief Operating Decision Maker (as this term is defined in IFRS Accounting Standards 8) is Adjusted EBITDA. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as our net (loss) income less income tax, financial results, Earnings (losses) from associates and joint ventures, and depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets. We believe Adjusted EBITDA facilitates company-to-company operating performance comparisons by backing out potential differences caused by variations such as capital structures, taxation and the useful lives and book depreciation and amortization of PP&E and intangible assets, which may vary for different companies for reasons unrelated to operating performance. Although Adjusted EBITDA is not a measure defined in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards (a non-GAAP measure), our Management believes that this measure facilitates operating performance comparisons from period to period and provides useful information to investors, financial analysts and the public in their evaluation of our operating performance. Adjusted EBITDA does not have a standardized meaning and, accordingly, our definition of Adjusted EBITDA may not be comparable to Adjusted EBITDA as used by other companies.

The following table shows the reconciliation of Net income (loss) to Adjusted EBITDA:

Year ended December 31,

    

2022

    

2021

    

Total Change

(P$million)

%  

(P$ million)

Net (loss) income

 

(640,379)

 

60,294

 

n/a

 

(700,673)

Income tax benefit (expense)

(82,536)

 

202,105

 

n/a

 

(284,641)

Other financial results, net

(100,379)

 

(102,811)

 

(2.4)

 

2,432

Finance costs

(92,625)

(174,096)

(46.8)

81,471

Earnings from associates and joint ventures

 

(2,550)

 

(2,398)

 

6.4

 

(152)

Operating loss

(918,469)

 

(16,906)

 

n/a

 

(901,563)

Depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets

1,542,467

 

822,272

 

87.6

 

720,195

Adjusted EBITDA

623,998

 

805,366

 

(22.5)

 

(181,368)

Our consolidated Adjusted EBITDA amounted to P$623,998 million in 2022, representing a decrease of P$181,368 million or 22.5% as compared to P$805,366 million in 2021. Adjusted EBITDA represented 27.5% and 31.2% of our total consolidated revenues in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Depreciation, Amortization and Impairment of Fixed Assets

Depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets increased P$720,195 million, amounting to P$1,542,467 million in 2022 as compared to P$822,272 million in 2021.

Due to the complex macroeconomic context in which the Company operates, as of September 30, 2022, Management identified the need to review the estimate of the recoverable value of Goodwill assigned to the CGU Telecom. From this analysis, Management concluded that the book value of the CGU Telecom exceeded its fair value, and, consequently, Goodwill was impaired by P$759,523 million (For further information refer to Note 3.u.1) of our Consolidated Financial Statements).

Additionally, depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets of the year includes the impact of the depreciation and amortization of the capital expenditures subsequent to December 31, 2021, partially offset by the effect of those assets that ended their useful life after that same date.

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

92

The effect generated by the restatement in current currency as of December 31, 2023 included in Depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets amounted to P$1,478,838 million and P$771,476 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Operating loss

In 2022, our consolidated operating loss amounted to P$918,469 million, representing an increase of P$901,563 million as compared to 2021. Operating loss represented (40.4)% and (0.7)% of consolidated revenues in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Year ended December 31,

% of Change

    

2022

    

2021

    

2022-2021

    

(P$million / %)

Increase/(Decrease)

Adjusted EBITDA (1)

 

623,998

    

805,366

 

(22.5)

As % of revenues

 

27.5

31.2

 

Depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets

 

(1,542,467)

(822,272)

 

87.6

As % of revenues

 

(67.9)

(31.9)

 

Operating loss

 

(918,469)

(16,906)

 

n/a

As % of revenues

 

(40.4)

(0.7)

 

(1)Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP measure, defined as our net (loss) income less income tax, financial results (finance costs and other financial results, net), earnings (losses) from associates and joint ventures, and depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets. For further information on the use of adjusted EBITDA, see “Item 5— Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Adjusted EBITDA”.

Financial Results, Net

    

Year ended December 31,

    

Total change

2022

2021

$

%  

Interests on borrowings

 

(46,559)

 

(93,276)

46,717

(50.1)

Remeasurement in borrowings

 

5,400

 

(3,422)

8,822

n/a

Foreign currency exchange gains on borrowings

 

133,909

 

283,848

(149,939)

(52.8)

Borrowings renegotiation results

 

(125)

 

(13,054)

12,929

(99)

Total finance costs

 

92,625

 

174,096

(81,471)

(46.8)

Other foreign currency exchange gains

 

1,170

 

42,139

(40,969)

(97.2)

Fair value gains/(losses) on financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

 

(39,496)

 

8,614

(48,110)

n/a

Other interests, net

 

6,026

 

(9,937)

15,963

n/a

RECPAM

 

165,557

 

104,110

61,447

59

Other

 

(32,878)

 

(42,115)

9,237

(21.9)

Total other financial results, net

 

100,379

 

102,811

(2,432)

(2.4)

Total financial results, net

 

193,004

 

276,907

(83,903)

(30.3)

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

93

We incurred in financial income, net of P$193,004 million in 2022, as compared to P$276,907 million in 2021. Financial Results, net in 2022 mainly include gain generated by (i) the effect generated by the restatement in current currency, which amounted to a gain of P$165,557 million (compared to P$104,110 million in 2021), (ii) foreign exchange differences measured in real terms of P$135,079 million as a result of a 72.5% devaluation of the Argentine Peso against the US dollar compared to a 94.8% inflation (compared to a gain of P$325,987 million in 2021 and 22.1% devaluation of the Argentine Peso against the US dollar compared to a 50.9% inflation), and (iii) gains from remeasurement in borrowings of P$5,400 million (compared to a loss of P$3,422 million in 2021). These gains were partially offset by losses generated by (i) interest on borrowings measured in real terms of P$46,559 million (compared to P$93,276 million in 2021), (ii) fair value losses on financial assets at fair value through profit or loss of P$39,496 million (compared to a gain of P$8,614 million in 2021) and (iii) other financial results of P$26,977 million (compared to P$65,106 million in 2021).

Income Tax

The Company’s income tax charge includes the following effects: (i) the current tax payable for the year pursuant to tax legislation applicable to each of Telecom Argentina and its subsidiaries; (ii) the effect of applying the deferred tax method on temporary differences arising out of the asset and liability valuation according to tax versus financial accounting criteria and; (iii) the effects of the income tax inflation adjustment in accordance with the provisions of Law No. 27,430, as amended by Law No. 27,468.

Income tax amounted to a gain of P$82,536 million in 2022 as compared to a loss of P$202,105 million in 2021. It includes mainly the following effects: (i) regarding current tax expenses, Telecom’s generated tax gain in fiscal year 2021 amounting to P$54,562 million and tax expense in fiscal year 2021 amounting to P$113,011 million, and (ii) regarding the deferred tax, in 2022 Telecom recorded a deferred tax gain of P$27,974 million compared to a deferred tax loss of P$89,094 million in 2021.

For more information on income tax, see Notes 3 and 15 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Net (loss) income

Telecom Argentina recorded a net loss of P$640,379 million in 2022 as compared to a net income of P$60,294 million for 2021 and represents (28.2)% of consolidated revenues as compared to 2.3% in 2021. The loss was mainly due to the operating loss, which includes the Goodwill impairment of P$759,523 million, partially offset by the financial gains, net amounting to P$193,004 million and the income tax benefit amounting to P$82,536 million.

Net loss attributable to controlling shareholders amounted to P$647,208 million in 2022 as compared to a net income of P$52,559 million in 2021.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Sources and Uses of Funds

We expect the main sources of Telecom Argentina’s liquidity in the short term to be cash flows from Telecom Argentina’s operations and cash flows from financing from third parties, which may include accessing to domestic and international capital markets and obtaining financing from financial institutions. Telecom Argentina’s principal uses of cash flows are expected to be capital expenditures, operating expenses, dividend payments to its shareholders, payments of borrowings and for general corporate purposes. Telecom Argentina expects working capital, funds generated from operations, dividend payments from its subsidiaries and financing from third parties to be sufficient. Telecom Argentina assumes that it will be able to access the domestic and international capital markets in 2024 to refinance its outstanding debt, if necessary.

Borrowings Developments during 2023

The most relevant borrowings developments in 2023 were the following:

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

94

Corporate Notes

During 2023 Telecom Argentina successfully completed the issuance a new classes of Notes as follows:

Amount involved

Interest 

Series

    

Currency

    

 (in millions)

    

Issuance date

    

Maturity date

    

Amortization

    

Interest rate

    

payment date

14

 

US$linked

 

62.4

 

02/2023

 

02/2028

 

In one installment at maturity date

 

Fixed rate of 1.00%

Quarterly basis

15

 

US$linked

 

87.4

 

06/02/2023

 

06/2026

 

In one installment at maturity date

 

0%

n/a

16

 

US$linked

 

180.4

 

07/2023

 

07/2025

 

In one installment at maturity date

 

0%

n/a

18

 

UVA

 

74.6

 

11/2023

 

11/2027

 

In one installment at maturity date

 

Fixed rate of 1.00%

Quarterly basis

19

 

US$linked

 

34.6

 

11/2023

 

11/2026

 

In one installment at maturity date

 

0%

n/a

30.9

12/2023

Bank and other financing entities loans

On May 5, 2023, the Company submitted a proposal for an export credit line for a total amount of up to US$50 million to EDC, the official export credit agency of Canada. On September 28, 2023, the first disbursement of US$12.7 million (equivalent to P$6,799 million in current currency as of December 31,2023) was received, maturing in May 2030.
On October 17, 2023, the Company submitted two new tranches (5 and 6) under the IDB loan for a total of US$120 million equivalent to P$41,145 million (P$58,236 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023), net of issuance expenses for P$866 million (P$1,226 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023). The funds received (US$100 million and US$20 million for tranches 5 and 6, respectively) will accrue compensatory interest at a semiannual SOFR plus a margin of 9.18 percentage points. These capitals will be amortized in five consecutive semiannual installments starting in June 2025 and ending with the last payment in June 2027.

LIBOR transition

In July, 2023, the Company signed addendums to the Finnvera loan and the two loans with IFC based on US$ LIBOR in order to replace LIBO rate with SOF rate, plus a 0.42826% adjustment margin. The transition date under the addendum was in November 2023 for Finnvera loan. For IFC loans, the transition dates were on August and September 2023.
In September, 2023, the Company signed addendums to the IDB loan based on US$ LIBOR in order to replace LIBO rate with SOF rate, plus a 0.42826% adjustment margin. The transition date under the addendum was in December 2023.
The Company does not maintain any US$ LIBOR-based loans as of December 31, 2023.

For more information about Telecom’s financing facilities (including currency, maturity, interest rate structure and amortization schedule), see Notes 13 and 26 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Derivate Financial Instrument

From time to time, in the ordinary course of business, Telecom enters into derivative contracts to hedge the fluctuation of, mainly, exchange and interest rates.

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

95

As of December 31, 2023, the three DFI agreements signed (during September, 2022) by the Company remain in force, to hedge the fluctuation of SOFR from the IFC loan signed on June 28, 2022, for its total amount, for the period beginning February 15, 2023 to August 15, 2025. The amounts hedged in each agreement are: two for a total amount of US$60 million each, and one for a total amount of US$64.5 million. The interest rates are 3.605%, 3.912% and 3.895%, respectively.

During 2023, Telecom Argentina entered into several DFI agreements amounting to US$752 million to hedge the fluctuation of the exchange rate from its loan portfolio, fixing the average exchange rate at 279.8 Argentine pesos/US$. The agreements expire between February 2023 and November 2023. Additionally, Telecom entered into several DFI agreements amounting to RMB20 million, fixing the average exchange rate at 37 Argentine pesos/RMB. These agreements expire in May 2023 and July 2023.

For more information about Telecom’s derivative contract, see Note 22 and 26 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Cash Flow

The table below summarizes, for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, Telecom’s consolidated cash flows:

    

Year ended December 31,

2023

    

2022

    

2021

 

(P$million)

Cash flows provided by operating activities

617,698

 

666,486

 

788,796

Cash flows used in investing activities

(593,707)

 

(516,518)

 

(698,306)

Cash flows used in financing activities

(72,040)

 

(142,622)

 

(123,117)

Net foreign exchange differences and RECPAM on cash and cash equivalents

83,098

 

(3,029)

 

(16,601)

Increase/ (Decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

35,049

 

4,317

 

(49,228)

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year

 

124,725

 

120,408

 

169,636

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year

 

159,774

 

124,725

 

120,408

As of December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, we had P$159,774 million, P$124,725 million and P$120,408 million in cash and cash equivalents, respectively.

Cash flows provided by operating activities were P$617,698 million, P$666,486 million and P$788,796 million in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Net cash provided by operating activities decreased P$48,788 million, or 7.3% in 2023 compared to 2022, primarily due to a P$246,673 million increase in net loss, adjusted for non-cash income and expense which was partially offset by (i) a P$171,467 million decrease in net cash outflows in connection with changes in our assets and liabilities and (ii) a P$26,418 million decrease in cash outflows used to pay income tax. The decrease in net cash outflows was primarily due to a decrease in the amounts paid to suppliers in foreign currency given the economic context and the foreign exchange restrictions in force during 2023, which was partially offset by an increase in the use of cash for acquisition of inventories and an increase in trade receivables.

Net cash provided by operating activities decreased P$122,310 million, or 15.5% in 2022 compared to 2021, primarily due to (i) a P$115,489 million increase in net loss, adjusted for non-cash income and expense, and (ii) a P$17,769 million increase in cash outflows used to pay income tax, which was partially offset by a P$10,948 million decrease in net cash outflows in connection with changes in our assets and liabilities. The decrease in net cash outflows was primarily due to a decrease in the amounts paid to suppliers because of our ability to pay suppliers in longer periods of time (on average) as part of our financing strategy, which was partially offset by an increase in the use of cash for acquisition of inventories and an increase in other receivables.

Cash flows used in investing activities were P$593,707 million, P$516,518 million and P$698,306 million in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

96

In 2023, cash flows used in investing activities included payments for acquisitions of PP&E and Intangible assets of P$463,508 million, investments not considered as cash and cash equivalents of P$127,805 million, payments for call options of P$2,496 million and payment for acquisition of subsidiary, net of cash acquired and joint venture of P$2,257 million.

In 2022, cash flows used in investing activities included payments for acquisitions of PP&E and Intangible assets of P$381,396 million, investments not considered as cash and cash equivalents of P$136,885 million, and payments for acquisition of subsidiaries of P$1,267 million.

In 2021, cash flows used in investing activities included payments for acquisitions of PP&E and Intangible assets for P$461,783 million and investment not considered as cash and cash equivalents for P$238,896 million.

Cash flows used in financing activities were P$72,040 million, P$142,622 million and P$123,117 million in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

In 2023, cash flows used in financing activities included payments for borrowings, interest and related expenses and leases liabilities for P$455,599 million and cash dividend payments for P$4,020 million partially offset by proceeds from borrowings for P$388,169 million.

In 2022, cash flows used in financing activities included payments for borrowings, interest and related expenses and leases liabilities for P$404,161 million and cash dividend payments for P$3,827 million partially offset by proceeds from borrowings for P$265,366 million.

In 2021, cash flows used in financing activities included payments for borrowings, interest and related expenses and leases liabilities for P$507,781 million (including payments for partial refinancing of our borrowings) and cash dividend payments for P$4,512 million partially offset by proceeds from borrowings for P$389,534 million.

Liquidity

The liquidity position of Telecom Argentina is and will be significantly dependent on its operating performance, its indebtedness, capital expenditure programs and dividends from its subsidiaries, if any.

Telecom’s working capital breakdown and its main variations are disclosed below:

    

2023

    

2022

    

Variation

(P$million)

Trade receivables

132,868

117,139

15,729

Other receivables

 

42,712

 

52,956

 

(10,244)

Inventories

 

31,529

 

20,079

 

11,450

Current liabilities (not considering borrowings)

 

(543,240)

 

(479,411)

 

(63,829)

Operating working capital- negative

 

(336,131)

 

(289,237)

 

(46,894)

As % of Revenues

 

16.3

%  

12.7

%  

Cash and cash equivalents

 

159,774

 

124,725

 

35,049

Other receivables

1,549

7,885

(6,336)

Investments

 

123,969

 

26,074

 

97,895

Current borrowings

 

(563,478)

 

(418,411)

 

(145,067)

Net Current financial (liability) asset

 

(278,186)

 

(259,727)

 

(18,459)

Assets classified as held for sale

2,971

(2,971)

Negative working capital (current assets — current liabilities)

 

(614,317)

 

(545,993)

 

(68,324)

Liquidity rate

 

0.44

 

0.39

 

0.05

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

97

Telecom and its subsidiaries have a typical working capital structure corresponding to a company with intensive capital that obtains spontaneous financing from its suppliers (especially PP&E and Intangible asset) for longer terms than those it provides to its customers. According to this, the negative working capital amounted to P$614,317 million as of December 31, 2023 (increasing P$68,324 million compared to December 31, 2022).

The Company has several financing sources and several offers from first-class international institutions to diversify its current funding structure, which includes accessing to domestic and international capital market and obtaining competitive bank loans in what relates to terms and financial costs, with the objective of covering its investments, operative working capital, and other corporative expenses and refinancing part of its borrowings.

To protect itself from changes in market conditions that could constrain its access to funding under certain circumstances, Telecom maintains certain minimum cash and liquid assets balances in its normal course of business. Telecom had consolidated cash and cash equivalents amounting to P$159,774 million and P$124,725 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. During years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, Telecom continued obtaining funds to the financial market used to pay its investments, operative working capital, and other corporative expenses and refinancing part of its financial debts within the framework of its permanent policy of optimizing the term, rate and structure of its financial debts. For further information, see Note 13 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

It should be noted that, given the economic context and the foreign exchange restrictions, during 2023, the Company has increased its unpaid debt in foreign currency due to not having access to the corresponding currencies.

For further information on our breakdown of financial liabilities into relevant maturity groups based on the remaining period at the date of the consolidated statement of financial position to the contractual maturity date, please see Note 26 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Further, the Company has future obligations related to various purchase commitments that are presented in Note 20 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Compliance with covenants

The Company holds certain loans with IFC, IIC, IDB, Finnvera, EDC, and CDB, hereinafter collectively referred to as the "Lenders", which, as of December 31, 2023, amount to P$769,919 million. These loans establish, among other provisions, the obligation to comply with certain financial ratios, which are calculated based on contractual definitions: i) "Net Debt/EBITDA" and ii) "EBITDA/Interest Net" on a quarterly basis, along with the presentation of the Company’s financial statements.

Considering the complexity of Argentina's economic situation, described in Note 29 to our Consolidated Financial Statements, which prevented the early and accurate estimation of the ratios, the Company requested and obtained from the Lenders waivers regarding the obligation to present the Net Debt/EBITDA ratio from December 31, 2023 until March 15, 2024. These waivers were conditioned upon certain obligations during the period, which have been met to date.

During March 2024, the Company requested and obtained from the Lenders new waivers effective until March 31, 2025, which allow increasing the maintenance Net Debt/EBITDA ratio above the originally established level (raising it to 3.75), for the calculation period between December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2024, establishing a net debt of US$2.700 billion on each calculation date, among other matters.

In addition, during the term of the waivers, the payment of dividends will be permitted between October 1, 2024 and December 31, 2024, for a maximum amount of US$100 million, while in compliance with a maintenance Net Debt/EBITDA ratio of less than 3.

The Company has complied with the Net Debt/EBITDA ratio established in the waivers obtained in March 2024, and is also in compliance with the rest of the commitments assumed and  in force on the date of issuance of this Annual Report.

For more information on our financial ratio waivers, see Note 13 of our Consolidated Financial Statements.

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

98

Dividends to shareholders

Telecom Argentina’s General Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting held on April 27, 2023, resolved to distribute non- cash assets dividends through the delivery of Global Bonds of the Argentine Republic amortizable in U.S. dollars due on July 9, 2030 (the “2030 Global Bonds”), for a nominal value of US$411,214,954.

Following the aforementioned distribution of dividends, the valuation of non-cash dividends was established at P$47,701 million (P$104,445 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023) and partially withdraw the “Voluntary reserve to maintain the Company’s level of investments in capital assets and the current level of solvency” for such amount.

Our ability to generate sufficient cash from our operations in order to satisfy our indebtedness and capital expenditure needs may be affected by macroeconomic factors influencing our business, including, without limitation, the rate at which Argentine Pesos can be exchanged for U.S. dollars and rates of inflation, among others. Certain statements expressed in this section constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and involve risks and uncertainties, including those described in this Annual Report in “Item 3—Key Information—Risk Factors”. Actual results may differ materially from our expectations described above as a result of various factors.

Capital Expenditures

We estimate that our capital expenditures in 2024 will be approximately US$481 million, as compared to US$940 million in 2023 (which represented 23.8% of our consolidated revenues).

The main capital expenditures projects are related to i) the expansion of cable television and Internet services in order to improve the transmission and speed offered to customers, ii) the deployment of 4G,iii) the expansion of 5G services to support the growth of mobile Internet services, and iv) improvement of the quality of services together with the launch of innovative Value-Added Services (“VAS”).

With respect to mobile services, investments were oriented mainly to the deployment of 4G technology, to achieve increasing coverage and capacity in various cities of Argentina. This objective was reached through the settlement in new sites, together with replacement and modernization of existing sites. In terms of infrastructure, during 2023, we continued to improve the services we provide by deploying the 4G / LTE network, together with the technological reconversion of our 2G / 3G networks to 4G and LTE, and the deployment of fiber optics to connect homes with Broadband, which also had an impact on fixed and data network. As of December 31, 2023, the deployment of 4G/LTE reached a coverage of 97% of urban population, in 2,032 localities and a coverage of 98% of the population of major cities of Argentina. By the end of 2023, and through the Argentine government-launched tender, we have acquired a 5G spectrum license that will accelerate the growth of our 5G service. As of December 31, 2023, we have reached 68 sites in Argentina, with an anticipated addition of 200 more in 2024.

With respect to fixed access network, in 2023 we reaffirmed our decision to focus our investments in technologies and solutions to substantially increase Broadband offered to users, mainly with GPON (FTTH) technology deployed in different regions of Argentina. Our work plans allow to satisfy the service requirements for business, large buildings, and urban developments.

With respect to transport networks, continuing with plans carried out in previous years, investments were completed for the deployment of new interurban paths of optical fiber, the increase Backbone IP capacity, the set-up of new contents POPs, the increase of capacity and availability of DWDM network, as well as the network transformation plan to converge to a single high-capacity network. New equipment was also installed for the Metro Ethernet network and for the development and extension of the regional transport networks, mainly in PTN (Packet Transport Network).

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

99

See “Item 3—Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks relating to Telecom and its Operations—We face substantial and increasing competition in the Argentine fixed and mobile telephony, cable television and Internet businesses”. We expect to finance our capital expenditures through cash generated from our operations, cash on hand and financing from third parties; therefore, our ability to fund these expenditures is dependent on, among other factors, our ability to generate sufficient funds from operations. Telecom’s ability to generate sufficient funds for capital expenditures is also dependent on its ability to increase its service prices, the increase of its operating costs due to inflation and the increase of the cost of imported materials in Peso terms as a result of the devaluation of the Peso/U.S. dollar and higher inflation.

Research and Development, Patents and Licenses, etc.

None.

Trend Information

Although 2023 posed many macroeconomic challenges, Telecom aimed to remain committed to its customers and focused on delivering a strong comprehensive ecosystem of digital, connectivity, and entertainment services.

In pursuit of this goal, we aimed to enhance efficiencies and generate value in product and service proposals, focused on becoming the preferred choice for our customers and contributing to the sustainability of Telecom's operations. Argentina´s political and economic landscape forced us to deepen efficiencies and process optimization to face a year characterized by unpredictability, acceleration of inflation, exchange rate instability, and an increase in interest rates, in addition to difficulties in accessing the foreign exchange market for the purchase of technological equipment, among others, due to the scarcity of foreign currency in the country and import restrictions.

Telecom is part of a key industry for the country's digital economic development and its regional and global projection. It plays a major role in creating value not only for the different sectors of the Industry 4.0, but also in people's everyday lives, and in generating innovative talent.

In this regard, the Company has dedicated efforts to fulfill investment plans in systems and infrastructure, aiming to develop new digital services that are currently in demand by our customers, thereby positioning the country on the essential path of digital development for the future. For example, in 2023 the digital wallet “Personal Pay” strengthened our positioning in the Argentine market.

In addition, the availability of a dedicated spectrum for 5G technology resulting from the bidding process that took place in October 2023, increases opportunities to expand and enhance new services, particularly those associated with B2B industry sectors.

We believe Telecom is prepared to embrace the exponential technological change brought by 5G, which will serve as the cornerstone for the digital transformation of industries and a competitive factor for the economy. Beyond offering a new connectivity experience for individuals and households, 5G is positioned as a major enabler of innovation and technology-based developments.

This new digital ecosystem demands substantial and intensive investments in U.S. dollars and the joint commitment of each link in the value chain, regulatory agencies, and national, provincial, and municipal governments.

With the commitment to connect Argentinians and offer them state-of-the-art digital services, we continue to analyze the evolution of international markets in search of financing opportunities that align with our strategy, and access the local capital market and/or obtain bank loans from local entities to continue driving our investment plan.

From a regulatory standpoint, in November 2023, the Federal Court on Administrative Litigation Matters No. 8 declared the “nullification” of Emergency Decree No. 690/20. The decision, rendered by a court of first-instance, helped clarify the uncertainty that the ICT industry has been facing in recent years due to the Emergency Decree. The Court determined that declaring an economic activity as a public service requires the enactment of a formal law by Congress, thereby prohibiting the Executive Branch from issuing an emergency decree for this purpose. However, an appeal could be filed against this decision before the Court of Appeals on Federal Administrative Matters.

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

100

We believe that our digital transformation facilitates the evolution of the Company's operational model, incorporating technological enablers that facilitate innovation, such as automation processes, artificial intelligence, cloudification, and big data management, to continue scaling the digitalization of operations efficiently and swiftly. These enablers drive us to expand our footprint in new businesses supported by the digital economy, based on IoT, fintech, cybersecurity, entertainment, and smart home solutions.

In line with our corporate purpose, we believe that we continue to drive the growth of the digital economy, enhance talent, and support the development of various goals such as energy efficiency and circular economy, which are pillars of Telecom's sustainable management.

Safe Harbor

See the discussion at the beginning of this Item 5 and “Forward-Looking Statements” in the introduction of this Annual Report, for forward-looking statement safe harbor provisions.

PART I - ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

101

ITEM 6.DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

The Board of Directors

The direction and management of Telecom Argentina is vested in the Board of Directors and its executive officers. Telecom Argentina’s bylaws were amended at the Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting held on August 31, 2017 providing for a Board of Directors consisting of (i) no fewer than eleven and no more than seventeen directors and (ii) the same or a lesser number of alternate members. This amendment was recorded with the IGJ on August 30, 2018.

Due to the resignation of director Eduardo de Pedro and alternate director Juan Santiago Fraschina effective as of December 7, 2023, as of the date of this Annual Report, Telecom Argentina has ten directors and ten alternate directors. Three of the directors and two of the alternate directors qualify as independent directors under SEC regulations. Three of the directors and two of the alternate directors also qualify as independent directors under CNV rules. According to Telecom Argentina’s bylaws, the Board of Directors has all of the required authority to manage the corporation, including authority for which the law requires special powers. The Board of Directors operates when there is a quorum of the absolute majority of its members and resolves issues by simple majority of votes present, provided that in respect of certain matters (the “Supermajority Matters”) the favorable vote of at least one Director proposed for designation by the Class A and one Director proposed for designation by the Class D is required to pass a resolution. According to Telecom Argentina’s bylaws, the chairman of the Board of Directors (the “Chairman”) has a double vote in the case of a tie, except in respect of Supermajority Matters. Under CNV regulation, in order to be independent, a director must neither be employed by, nor affiliated with, Telecom Argentina, CVH or Fintech. Directors and alternate directors are normally elected at annual ordinary general meetings of shareholders (“Annual Ordinary Shareholders’ Meetings”) and serve a renewable three-year term. The term of the current directors expired on December 31, 2023. Nevertheless, according to Section 257 of Argentine Corporations Law, they will remain in their functions until they are replaced. None of Telecom Argentina’s directors have services contracts with Telecom Argentina (or any subsidiary) providing for benefits upon termination of employment as a director.

On January 31, 2018 the Board of Directors approved the internal rules of the Executive Committee, —the Rules of the Executive Committee (Reglamento de Facultades y Funcionamiento)— provided for in Section 13 of our Bylaws. The Executive Committee is in charge of the approval, inter alia, of matters in the ordinary course of business, but without executive responsibilities which shall be in charge of the managers of the Company, the preliminary approval of significant plans, approval of the Business Plan and Annual Budget of the Company and also certain other duties. The Executive Committee is comprised of five members, all of which must be members of the Board of Directors of our Company. The Executive Committee takes all of its resolutions by the unanimous vote of all its members, and in case such consent is not obtained in respect of any matter, such matter is posted for approval of the Board of Directors.

As established in the Telecom Shareholders’ Agreement between CVH and Fintech, for so long as CVH holds a certain percentage of Telecom Argentina shares, CVH shall be entitled to designate the majority of the directors, alternate directors, members of the Supervisory Committee, Executive Committee members, Audit Committee members, the CEO and any other Key Employees (other than the CFO and the Internal Auditor, who shall be designated by Fintech). CVH shall also be entitled to nominate the Chairman of the Board and Fintech to nominate de Vice Chairman of the Board. In the absence of a director, the corresponding alternate director may attend and vote at meetings of the Board of Directors.

See “Item 7—Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—Major Shareholders—Telecom Shareholders’ Agreement” for a description of certain agreements relating to the appointment of members of the Board of Directors.

PART I - ITEM 6 DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

102

The following table lists our directors and alternate directors as of December 31, 2023 and as of the date of this Annual Report:

    

    

Date Director joined

Name

Position on the Board of Directors

the Board of Directors

Carlos Alberto Moltini

 

Chairman of the Board of Directors

January 1, 2020

Mariano Marcelo Ibáñez

Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors

March 8, 2016

Alejandro Alberto Urricelqui

 

Director

January 1, 2018

Ignacio Rolando Driollet

Director

January 1, 2023

Damián Fabio Cassino

 

Director

January 1, 2018

Carlos Alejandro Harrison

 

Director

March 8, 2016

Martín Héctor D'Ambrosio

 

Director

March 8, 2016

Ignacio Cruz Moran

Director

February 28, 2023

Luca Luciani

 

Director

January 31, 2018

Baruki Luis Alberto González

 

Director

April 8, 2016

María Lucila Romero

 

Alternate Director

January 1, 2018

Sebastián Ricardo Frabosqui Diaz

 

Alternate Director

January 1, 2018

Claudia Irene Ostergaard

 

Alternate Director

January 31, 2018

Ignacio José María Sáenz Valiente

 

Alternate Director

January 1, 2020

José Carlos Cura

 

Alternate Director

April 27, 2017

Miguel Angel Graña

 

Alternate Director

January 1, 2018

Facundo Martín Goslino

 

Alternate Director

January 31, 2018

Lucrecia María Delfina Moreira Savino

 

Alternate Director

January 31, 2018

María Constanza Martella

 

Alternate Director

April 28, 2021

Carolina Susana Curzi

 

Alternate Director

January 31, 2018

Executive Committee

The following table lists the members of our Executive Committee as of December 31, 2023 and as of the date of this Annual Report:

Carlos Alberto Moltini

    

  

Alejandro Alberto Urricelqui

 

  

Mariano Marcelo Ibáñez

 

  

Ignacio Rolando Driollet

Ignacio Cruz Moran

 

  

Carlos Alberto Moltini is an accountant with a degree from the University of Buenos Aires. He was appointed CEO of the Company in November 2017. On January 1, 2020 he ceased his function as CEO and became a member of the Board of Directors of Telecom and a member of its Executive Committee. Until the Merger, Mr. Moltini had been a member of the Board of Directors of Cablevisión since October 2006 and General Manager of Cablevision from November 2006 to November 2017. Before that, Mr. Moltini was the General Manager of Multicanal S.A. and, before that, he was the CFO of Arte Radiotelevisivo Argentino S.A. (“Artear”) for seven years, a leading broadcasting channel in the City of Buenos Aires, owned by Grupo Clarín. Previously, Mr. Moltini worked for Bagley Argentina S.A. and other broadcasting companies. He was born on November 16, 1960.

Mariano Marcelo Ibáñez is a lawyer with a degree from the University of Buenos Aires. He was the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Company from March 2016 until January 1, 2018. He is currently the Vice Chairman and member of the Executive Committee. Previously, he was Director of Cablecom and as Chairman and acting CEO of Cablevisión. He was a Director of Multimedios América (Cablevisión, Radio América, Radio del Plata, El Cronista and América TV). He was born on August 25, 1959.

PART I - ITEM 6 DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

103

Alejandro Alberto Urricelqui is an Accountant with a degree from the University of Buenos Aires, and has a Master Degree in Finance. He was Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Company from January 1, 2018 until May 21, 2020. He is a member of the Executive Committee. He was the Chairman of Cablevisión until it was merged into the Company. Mr. Urricelqui joined Grupo Clarín in 1990. As Chief Financial Officer, he participated in the business expansion and integration of Grupo Clarín’s media and telecommunications, including the acquisition of Cablevision in 2006 and its merger with Multicanal S.A., and in Grupo Clarín’s initial public offering in 2007. He was born on October 16, 1959.

Ignacio Rolando Driollet is a lawyer with a degree from the Pontifical Catholic University of Argentina. In 2005, he obtained the title of “Psychological Consultant” at the Argentine School of Social Psychology. Between 1983 and 1987, he worked in the Judiciary, Special, Civil and Commercial courts as an analyst in the first instance and later as a Chamber Rapporteur. From 1987 to 1992, he was a lawyer at Estudio Sáenz Valiente & Padilla. From 1992 to December 2022, he has held various positions at Grupo Clarín S.A. including management positions in most of its companies, serving as Director and member of the Executive Committee of Cablevisión S.A. Between 1997 and 2022, he was Director of Strategic Planning of Grupo Clarín S.A. As of January 2023, he has been appointed Director and Chairman of the Board of Cablevisión Holding S.A. as well as Director and member of the Executive Committee at Telecom Argentina S.A. He is the author of the work “Master of Teachers, the letters of Gamaliel”, published in 2010 by Editorial San Pablo of Buenos Aires and has been associated with the Christian Association of Business Leaders (ACDE) for more than twenty years, becoming a member of its Board of Directors in 2019. He was born on February 1, 1962.

Damián F. Cassino is a lawyer with a degree from the University of Buenos Aires. He is a partner at the Argentine law firm Saénz Valiente & Asociados. Mr. Cassino specializes in complex litigation and antitrust law. He currently is a director of Telecom and, until December 31, 2019, he was a member of its Executive Committee. He is also a member of the board of directors of various companies, including GC Dominio S.A. He was born on January 16, 1969.

Carlos Alejandro Harrison is a Business Administrator with a degree from the University of Buenos Aires and completed postgraduate studies at IAE Business School. He has been a member of the Board of Directors since March 2016 and is a member of the Company’s Audit Committee. Previously, he was President of Producciones YAQ S.A. and President of Business Development for AMC Networks International. Before that, he was the General Manager of Chello Latin America and Pramer SCA (both controlled by Liberty Global plc). Mr. Harrison also worked for Grupo Clarín S.A. as a Business Development Manager and was the Director of for International Operations at Multicanal S.A. He was born on January 19, 1963.

Martín Héctor D’Ambrosio is a lawyer with a degree from the University of Buenos Aires. He has been a member of the Board of Directors since March 2016 and he is also a member of the Company’s Audit Committee. He currently is Managing Partner at GS1 S.R.L. and legal advisor to several companies. Previously, he worked with the legal firm Dellepiane & Asociados, and for many years, he was in charge of the legal area of US Equities Realty. He was born on March 9, 1974.

Ignacio Cruz Moran studied Public Accounting at the University of Buenos Aires and his professional training is in auditing, finance and business. He began his professional career at Arthur Andersen (currently, Ernst & Young) in the area of financial institutions and capital markets, becoming an audit and advisory manager. In 1998, he joined Banco de San Juan S.A. as internal auditor and later served the Board of Directors of the four banks of the Banco San Juan Group (Banco de San Juan S.A., Banco de Santa Cruz S.A., Nuevo Banco de Santa Fe S.A. and Nuevo Banco of Entre Ríos S.A.). In 2008, he became CFO at YPF S.A. and from 2010 to 2012 he served as COO of said company. In those years, Mr. Moran was also a member of the Board of Directors of different local YPF affiliates. Between 2012 and 2016, he served as a deputy to the Board of Directors of Grupo Banco San Juan, in financial and new business matters. He was CFO of Telecom Argentina S.A. from May 2016 to March 2017. Since 2017, he works independently as a business advisor and is a businessman. He was born on August 5, 1970.

Luca Luciani has a degree in Economics and Trade from LUISS University (Rome). He has been a member of the Board of Directors since January 31, 2018. Luca Luciani was the Managing Director and CEO of Value Partners, a multinational Italian consultancy firm operating through a network of 250 professionals around the world, until November 2018. During 15 years, since 1999, he built a comprehensive experience as manager of telecommunications businesses, among others: CEO of Tim Brazil, General Manager of Telecom Italia domestic business, Group controller and CFO of Tim, Vice President Marketing and Sales of TI Group and CTO of Mobile. Previously, Mr. Luciani has more than10 years of experience in different sectors and positions, such as Group Controller of Enel, Manager of Procter & Gamble and consultant in Bain&Company network. He was born on November 2, 1967.

PART I - ITEM 6 DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

104

Baruki Luis Alberto González is a lawyer with a degree from the University of Buenos Aires. Mr. González joined the Board of Directors of Sofora, Nortel, Telecom Argentina and Personal in April 2016 (Sofora, Personal and Nortel were merged into Telecom Argentina). Mr. González is a founding member of the Argentine law firm Errecondo, González & Funes that provides services as legal counsel to the Company. Between 1995 and 1996, he worked as an international associate at the United States law firm White & Case LLP. He is a member of the Public Bar Association of the City of Buenos Aires (Colegio Público de Abogados de la Capital Federal) and of the Buenos Aires City Bar (Colegio de Abogados de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires). He was born on July 29, 1967.

María Lucila Romero is a lawyer with a degree from the Pontifical Catholic University of Argentina. She is a partner at the Argentine law firm Saénz Valiente & Asociados. She specializes in corporate law, particularly mergers and acquisitions. She has been a member of the board of directors in various companies. Mss. Romero currently serves as director of GC Dominio S.A. and as alternate director of Telecom. She was born on August 12, 1967.

Sebastián Ricardo Frabosqui Díaz is a lawyer with a degree from the Pontifical Catholic University of Argentina, has a Master’s Degree in Law and Economics at Universidad Torcuato Di Tella and a Master in Laws (LL.M) degree at Northwestern University. He has been an alternate director since January 2018. He is a partner at the law firm Sáenz Valiente & Asociados. He specializes in Mergers & Acquisitions, general corporate consultancy, debt restructuring and capital markets. Between 2009 and 2010, he worked as foreign associate in the firms Fox, Horan & Camerini and Arnold & Porter at their respective offices in New York and Washington D.C. He was born on February 14, 1978.

Claudia Irene Ostergaard is a lawyer with a degree from Universidad del Salvador. She is a partner at the Argentine law firm Saénz Valiente & Asociados. She specializes in civil, commercial and administrative law, particularly, damage liability in litigation cases. She has been a member of the board of directors of various companies. She was born on May 29, 1974.

Ignacio José María Sáenz Valiente is a lawyer with a degree from the Pontifical Catholic University of Argentina and partner at the Argentine law firm Saénz Valiente & Asociados that provides services as legal counsel to the Company. Mr. Sáenz Valiente specializes in corporate law, particularly local and international acquisitions and wealth management. He currently is a member of the board of directors of various companies, including GC Dominio S.A. and Cablevisión Holding S.A. and, since January 1, 2020, he is an alternate director of Telecom. He was born on December 21, 1975.

José Carlos Cura is an economist graduated from the University of Buenos Aires and holds a degree in Administration from the IAE Business School of Universidad Austral. He has been an alternate director since April 2017. He currently works as an independent financial and real estate advisor. He started his carrier in the financial business at Lloyds Bank, where he worked for different departments, including the Treasury Department. He was born on September 25, 1962.

Miguel Angel Graña is a Certified Public Accountant who graduated from the University of Buenos Aires with post-graduate studies at Harvard University. He has been an alternate director since January 2018 and was a director of Telecom Personal (merged into Telecom Argentina) from March 2016 to November 2017. He is the Chairman of Compañía de Inversiones y Mandatos S.A. and Managing Partner at Megraso SRL. Previously, he was Managing Director at J. P. Morgan in charge of M&A at the Buenos Aires office and Chairman at the Nokia distributor in Argentina. He was born on December 15, 1957.

Facundo Martín Goslino is a lawyer from the Pontifical Catholic University of Argentina and has a Master of Laws degree (LL.M.) from Cornell Law School, New York. He is an alternate director of Telecom since January 31, 2018. He is a partner at “EGFA Abogados” law firm. He also is a member of the supervisory committee of other Argentine companies, mainly in the energy and gas distribution sectors. Mr. Goslino worked at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton in 2006 as international associate. He is a member of the Public Bar Association of the Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires (Colegio Público de Abogados de la Capital Federal). He was born on January 19, 1975.

Lucrecia María Delfina Moreira Savino is a lawyer with a degree from the Pontifical Catholic University of Argentina. She has been an alternate director since January 2018. Ms. Moreira Savino is an associate of the law firm “EGFA Abogados”. She is also currently an alternate member of the supervisory committee of other Argentine companies, mainly in the energy and gas distribution sectors. She was born on March 2, 1974.

PART I - ITEM 6 DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

105

María Constanza Martella is a lawyer with a degree from the University of Buenos Aires. She is an alternate director of Telecom since April 28, 2021. She is a senior associate at “EGFA Abogados” law firm. She is also a member of the board of directors and the supervisory committee of other Argentine companies, mainly in the energy sector. She is a member of the Public Bar Association of the City of Buenos Aires (Colegio Público de Abogados de la Capital Federal). She was born on June 18, 1982.

Carolina Susana Curzi is a lawyer with a degree from the University of Buenos Aires. She is an alternate director of Telecom since January 31, 2018. She is a partner at “EGFA - Abogados” law firm. She also is a member of the supervisory committee of other Argentine companies, mainly in the energy and gas distribution sectors. She is a member of the Public Bar Association of the City of Buenos Aires (Colegio Público de Abogados de la Capital Federal). She was born on March 14, 1976.

Senior Management

As of December 31, 2023, Telecom’s senior Management team includes the individuals listed below. Unless otherwise noted, these individuals are members of Telecom’s senior Management as of the date of this Annual Report.

Name

    

Position (1)

    

Date of Designation

Roberto D. Nóbile

 

Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”)

January 1, 2020

Gabriel P. Blasi

 

Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”)

September 27, 2017

Hernán P. Verdaguer

 

Director of Regulatory Matters

November 16, 2017

Pedro L. López Matheu

 

Director of External Communications, Sustainability and Media

June 14, 2016

Pablo C. Casey

 

Director of Legal and Institutional

November 16, 2017

Sebastián Palla

 

Chief of Procurement officer (“CPO”)

August 8, 2016

Sergio D. Faraudo

 

Director of Human Capital

November 16, 2017

Gonzalo Hita

 

Chief Operation Officer (“COO”)

November 16, 2017

Miguel A. Fernandez

 

Chief Technology Officer (“CTO”)

November 16, 2017

Alejandro Miralles

 

Chief Audit & Compliance Officer

November 16, 2017

Fernando Cravero

 

Director of International Operations

March 1,2018

Maximiliano A. Olivera

Sr. Manager of Partners and National Market Alliances

November 1, 2021

Martin Andres Heine

Director of Digital Growth and Fintech

August 29, 2022

Guillermo Paez

Director of Platforms and Services

August 29, 2022

Julio Hutka

Director of B2B Business

December 1, 2023

(1)The designation of Director does not imply that the officers mentioned in this table are members of the Board of Directors of Telecom Argentina, which is composed of the persons stated in “—Directors, Senior Management and Employees—The Board of Directors” above. The term of officer of Telecom’s Senior Management is contractual in nature. Such contracts do not include a specified expiration date.

PART I - ITEM 6 DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

106

Roberto D. Nóbile is a Certified Public Accountant with a degree from the University of Buenos Aires and an AMP (Advanced Management Program) at Harvard Business School. He was appointed as General Sub - Director of the Company on November 27, 2017. Previously, he had been COO of the Company since May 2016 in charge of Marketing, Sales and Operations. Mr. Nóbile has many years of experience in the telecommunications and media sector. In October 2006, he joined Cablevisión, where he worked for 10 years, as COO and Deputy Managing Director. He joined Arthur Andersen in 1989. Subsequently, he worked at Honeywell as South Regional Controller (Brazil, Argentina and Chile). In 1997, he was CFO of Arte Gráfico Editorial Argentino S.A. He was born on September 27, 1967.

Gabriel P. Blasi holds a degree in Business Administration and took post-graduate programs in Finance at Universidad del CEMA-Centro de Estudios Macroeconómicos Argentinos and at IAE (Universidad Austral). He held several managerial positions in Investment Banking and Capital Markets at Citibank and Banco Río (BSCH). He was the CFO of Grupo Carrefour in Argentina and Goyaique S.A.C.I.F. y A. (Grupo Pérez Companc). Until 2011, he was the CFO of IRSA Inversiones y Representaciones Sociedad Anónima (IRS), Cresud S.A.C.I.F. y A. (CRESY) and Alto Palermo S.A. (IRSCP) and held several board positions in Argentina, Brazil, New Zealand, Uruguay and USA. He joined Telecom Argentina on September 2017, where he holds the position of Chief Financial Officer. He was born on November 22, 1960.

Hernán P. Verdaguer is a lawyer specialized in Corporate Law. He did a Postgraduate Program on Communications Law Update (Facultad de Derecho - University of Buenos Aires) and a Postgraduate Program on Business Management (Universidad Argentina de la Empresa, UADE). He was appointed Director of Regulatory Affairs of the Company on November 16, 2017. He joined Diario Clarín in 1994 and then with the creation of Grupo Clarín, he held several positions until becoming Manager of Regulatory Affairs. He held such position until November 2017, when he joined Telecom Argentina. He was born on May 16, 1968.

Pedro Lopez Matheu is a lawyer with a degree from the Universidad Católica Argentina. Mr. Lopez Matheu has 20 years of experience in the institutional relations in first-line multinational and national companies. From 1996 to 2006 worked at Grupo Clarín as Public Affairs Manager. He was Chairman of the Newspaper Publisher Association of the City of Buenos Aires, and of the Press Freedom Commission of ADEPA (Asociación de Entidades Periodísticas Argentinas), Vice Chairman of the Association of Argentine Private Radios, and of other national and multinational entities of that sector. From 2006 to 2014 he was Corporate and Government Affairs at Kraft Foods and Mondelez, leading company of food and, for Argentina, Chile, Uruguay and Paraguay. Also, since 2014, he had been Corporate Affairs Director at AXION Energy until he joined the Company. He was born on May 23, 1966.

Pablo C. Casey is a lawyer with a degree from University of Buenos Aires and holds a Master’s Degree in Law and Economics from Universidad Torcuato Di Tella. He was appointed Director of Legal and Institutional Affairs of Telecom Argentina on November 16, 2017. Previously, he was a member of the Board of Directors of Cablevisión since October 2006. He worked at Grupo Clarín directly and indirectly since 1986 as Manager of Institutional Affairs. Mr. Casey also worked at Estudio Sáenz Valiente y Asociados until 1997, where he worked directly with Grupo Clarín. Between 1997 and 2005, he was the Manager of Legal Affairs of Multicanal. Mr. Casey was also a member of the Board of Directors of Grupo Clarín. He was born on June 20, 1967.

Sebastian Palla is an economist with a degree from the Universidad Torcuato Di Tella. He is Chief of Procurement officer of Telecom Argentina since August 8, 2016. From 2009 to 2016 he worked at Macro Bank as an advisor of the Chairman first, later in the Investment Banking Management area and finally in the Government Banking Management area. From 2006 to 2009, he was in charge of the union of AFJP, first as Executive Director, and later as a Chairman. From 2002 to 2005, he was Chief of Advisor to the Ministry of Finance and then Sub-secretary of Finance of the Ministry of Economy and Public Finance. Mr. Palla was honored as a member of the Young Global Leaders Forum in 2005 (created by the World Economic Forum), also a member of the Eisenhower Fellowship in 2008; and was identified as one of the most influential people of 2007, in Luciana Vazquez’ s book “The Education of Those Who Influence”. He was born on June 12, 1974.

Sergio D. Faraudo is a lawyer from Universidad Nacional de La Plata and holds a Master’s Degree in Economics and Political Science from ESEADE. He has been the Director of Human Capital of Telecom Argentina since November 2017. Between 2015 and 2017, he was the Corporate Director of Human Resources of Grupo Clarín. Between 2001 and 2015, he held managerial positions in Human Resources Areas at PSA Peugeot Citroën in Argentina, Spain, France and Brazil, including two years as Industrial Director of the local subsidiary. Between 1991 and 1995, he held a position in the Human Resources Management area at Telecom Argentina. Between 1987 and 1989, he was granted two scholarships from the French Government to study Law, New Technologies and Government Modernization. He was born on January 7, 1964.

PART I - ITEM 6 DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

107

Gonzalo Hita holds a degree in Marketing from the Universidad Argentina de la Empresa (UADE). He also took several specialization courses and programs for upper management at institutions such as IAE Business School (PAD), ESADE Business & Law School, and Universidad del CEMA. He was appointed COO of the Company on November 16, 2017. At Cablevisión, he held, among others, the position of COO and, previously, he had been the Commercial Director since 2000. Mr. Gonzalo Hita was born on June 28, 1970.

Miguel Angel Fernández is an Electronic Engineer from the Universidad de Bahía Blanca and also holds an EMBA Program from IAE (2000 — 2001). He was appointed CTO (Chief Technical Officer) of Telecom Argentina on November 16, 2017. He holds the same position at Cablevisión since 2007. Between 1994 and 2006, he was the Technical Manager of Multicanal. Between 1990 and 1994, he was the Field Engineer at Western Atlas Petroleum Service Co. He was born on June 10, 1963.

Alejandro Miralles is an economist with a degree from the University of Buenos Aires. He was appointed as Chief Audit & Compliance Officer in November 2017. He was Director of Human Capital of Telecom Argentina since June 6, 2016. Before that, he was Customer Partner for more than five years at Korn Ferry, the leader global people and organizational advisory firm. He has also worked as Chief Financial Officer at Cablevision for seven years and Chief Executive Officer at Teledigital Cable. Prior to that, he was Investment Officer at CEI Citicorp Holdings and he worked at Citibank N.A. and at Manufacturers Hannover Trust. He was born on December 29, 1963.

Fernando Cravero holds an undergraduate degree in Marketing, an MBA (Master in Business Administration) and a PAD (Program for Top Management) from the IAE Business School (Universidad Austral). He has also attended courses at ESADE Business & Law School. In March 2018, he was appointed as Telecom Argentina’s Director of International Operations. Previously, he held the position of Operations Manager at Cablevision for seven years, and he had also been appointed Regional Manager of Operations at Multicanal in 2000. He founded a CATV company, which was sold in 1997, and has also held several positions in the financial sector. He was born on March 14, 1973.

Maximiliano Olivera holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Senior Management Program from ESADE Business & Law School, and a Management Development Program’s degree from UADE. In March 2019, he was appointed Sr. Manager of Partnerships and Alliances of the National Market of Telecom Argentina. Previously, he held the position of Regional Operations Manager in Cablevisión S.A. for eight years. In 1999, he joined Multicanal S.A. and served as Technical Chief, Commercial Chief, and Regional Chief. He started in the telecommunications industry in 1992, working on the setting up of a CATV company (Cabletotal SA), which was sold in 1995 to VCC (Video Cable Comunicación SA) where he worked at its technical department until it was sold in 1998. He was born on February 27, 1973.

Martín A. Heine is a Certified Public Accountant with a degree from the University of Buenos Aires. He previously held several managerial positions, including Commercial and Marketing Director, within Telecom. He has been working for 26 years in the telecommunications and media sector. He was appointed Head of Digital Growth on August 29, 2022, from where he is leading the constant development of Personal Pay, Personal’s digital wallet, therefore, adding some interesting features to the fintech market. He was born on May 18, 1973.

Guillermo Paez graduated from the University of Buenos Aires (UBA) with a degree in Engineering Telecommunications and subsequently took post-graduate programs in Senior Management and Business Agility at ESADE Business & Law School. He also achieved a certificated program in innovative strategies and solutions focused on the user at Design Thinkers Academy in Amsterdam. Paez joined Telecom Argentina on January 2018, where he held the position of Content Platforms Director and since August 2022, has acted as Executive Director of Platforms & Services. He has more than 20 years of experience in the telecommunications industry leading engineering, marketing, product and procurement teams, and working knowledge in different roles and decision-making processes. Prior to joining Telecom Argentina, he worked for 12 years (2006-2018), holding several managerial positions at Cablevision-Fibertel. He was a Product & Innovation Manager (2017-2018), heading a multi-talent team, Flow E2E Program Manager (2014-2016), Supply Chain Manager (2008-2016), and Telcos & Corporate Customers Manager (2007-2008). He also held leadership positions at PRIMA (2000-2007) and Ericsson. (1998-1999). He was born on January 12, 1972.

PART I - ITEM 6 DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

108

Julio Hutka joined Telecom Argentina in 1999. He graduated from the Universidad Nacional de Córdoba as an Electronic Engineer and a Master of Science in Astronomy. Researcher in Astronomy and Physics of the High Atmosphere, activities developed in the Antarctic Continent. He has more than 25 years of experience at corporate and public sector working in technological business development: i) experience in the oil and gas industry, developed in a multicultural context in different locations worldwide; ii) strongly skilled professional in tech industry, management, business and negotiation; and iii) deep knowledge in telecom. Mr. Hutka was born on March 31, 1973.

Supervisory Committee

Argentine law requires any corporation with share capital in excess of P$2,000,000,000 or which provides a public service or which is listed on any stock exchange or is controlled by a corporation that fulfills any of the aforementioned requirements, to have a Supervisory Committee. The Supervisory Committee is responsible for overseeing Telecom Argentina’s compliance with its bylaws and Argentine law and, without prejudice of the role of external auditors, is required to present a report on the accuracy of the financial information presented to the shareholders by the Board of Directors at the Annual Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting. The members of the Supervisory Committee are also authorized:

to call ordinary or extraordinary Shareholders’ Meetings;
to place items on the agenda for meetings of shareholders;
to attend meetings of shareholders; and
generally, to monitor the affairs of Telecom Argentina.

Telecom Argentina’s bylaws provide that the Supervisory Committee is to be formed by (i) five members and (ii) three or five alternate members, elected by the majority vote of all shareholders. Members of the Supervisory Committee are elected to serve one year terms and may be reelected.

The following table lists the members and alternate members of the Supervisory Committee as of December 31, 2023:

Name

    

Position on the Supervisory Committee

    

Profession

Pablo Andrés Buey Fernández

 

Member

 

Lawyer

Pablo Gabriel San Martín

 

Member

 

Accountant

María Ximena Digón

 

Member

 

Lawyer

Alejandro Héctor Massa

 

Member

 

Accountant

Saturnino Jorge Funes

 

Member

 

Lawyer

Javier Alegría

 

Alternate Member

 

Lawyer

Rubén Suárez

 

Alternate Member

 

Accountant

Matías Alejandro Fredriks

 

Alternate Member

 

Lawyer

Luciano Nicolás Gimenez

Alternate Member

Lawyer

Lucrecia Sofía Myburg Diaz

 

Alternate Member

 

Lawyer

The following table lists the members and alternate members of the Supervisory Committee as of the date of this Annual Report:

Name

    

Position on the Supervisory Committee

    

Profession

Pablo Andrés Buey Fernández

 

Member

 

Lawyer

Pablo Gabriel San Martín

 

Member

 

Accountant

María Ximena Digón

 

Member

 

Lawyer

Alejandro Héctor Massa

 

Member

 

Accountant

Saturnino Jorge Funes

 

Member

 

Lawyer

Javier Alegría

 

Alternate Member

 

Lawyer

Rubén Suárez

 

Alternate Member

 

Accountant

Matías Alejandro Fredriks

 

Alternate Member

 

Lawyer

Lucrecia Sofía Myburg Diaz

 

Alternate Member

 

Lawyer

PART I - ITEM 6 DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

109

Pablo Andrés Buey Fernández is a lawyer from the University of Buenos Aires and has Master of Laws from Harvard University Law School. He has been a member of the Supervisory Committee of the Company since April 2016. He is Managing Partner at the law firm Alegría, Buey Fernández, Fissore and Montemerlo. Mr. Buey Fernández was an associate foreign lawyer at the firm Finley, Kumble, Wagner, Heine, Underberg, Manley & Casey. He is a member of several professional associations. He was a professor at Master’s Degrees programs, post-graduate courses and seminars at Escuela Superior de Economía y Administración de Empresas, at the Facultad de Derecho and the Facultad de Ciencias Económicas from the University of Buenos Aires, and at the Facultad de Derecho of Universidad del Salvador. He was born on August 8, 1957.

Pablo Gabriel San Martín has been a member of the Supervisory Committee since April 2018. He is the President of SMS Latinoamerica and Partner Director of SMS — San Martin, Suarez y Asociados. Mr. San Martín serves as Chairman of the Audit Committee of the Transnational Auditors Committee of IFAC (International Federation of Accountants.) He served as auditor at the firm Pistrelli, Díaz y Asociados (Arthur Andersen). He is a member of several professional associations and of the steering committee of several binational business chambers and professional organizations. He was a professor at the School of Economic Sciences of University of Buenos Aires and Universidad del Salvador. He wrote articles on subjects within his field of expertise and is regularly invited as lecturer and guest speaker at Argentine and foreign universities.  He is a Certified Public Accountant graduated from University of Buenos Aires. He was born on May 1, 1963.

María Ximena Digón is a lawyer graduated with an Honor Diploma from the Pontifical Catholic University of Argentina. She has been a member of Telecom’s supervisory committee since 2017. She is a partner at “EGFA - Abogados” law firm. She also is a member of the Board of Directors and of the supervisory committee of other Argentine companies, mainly in the energy and gas distribution sectors. She is a member of the Public Bar Association of the City of Buenos Aires (Colegio Público de Abogados de la Capital Federal). She was born on June 11, 1975.

Alejandro Héctor Massa has been a member of the Supervisory Committee since April 2018. He was a partner of Deloitte & Co SRL from 1999 to 2017, after Morgan Benedit y Asociados became a member of Deloitte. He is a member of the Argentine Fiscal Association and was a member of the International Fiscal Association. He was a professor at courses and graduate studies in the School of Economic Sciences of University of Buenos Aires, at graduate studies in Universidad Austral located in Rosario, and he served as author and speaker about subjects within his field of expertise. He is a Certified Public Accountant graduated from University of Buenos Aires. He was born on November 3, 1954.

Saturnino Jorge Funes is a lawyer with a degree from the Universidad del Salvador and a Master’s degree in business law from the Universidad Austral, with honors. He is a founding partner of the law firm “EGFA Abogados”. He worked at Shearman & Sterling LLP between 2000 and 2001 as an international associate. He is professor of corporate law at the Universidad del Salvador Law School in Buenos Aires, and a professor at the Masters in Finance and Masters in Law and Economics, both at the Universidad Torcuato Di Tella in Buenos Aires. He is a member of the Public Bar Association of the City of Buenos Aires (Colegio Público de Abogados de la Capital Federal) and of the Buenos Aires City Bar (Colegio de Abogados de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires). He was born on August 6, 1968.

Javier Alegria is a lawyer with a degree from the Pontifical Catholic University of Argentina. He is also a partner at the law firm Estudio Alegria, Buey Fernández, Fissore & Montemerlo. He received a Master of Law from Northwestern University and a certificate in Business Administration from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. He acted as an international lawyer with Cleary, Gottlieb, Steen & Hamilton LLP law firm from 2003 to 2004. Mr. Alegria is a member of the Public Bar Association of the City of Buenos Aires. He is a professor at the University of Buenos Aires Law School and Universidad del CEMA. He was born on August 7, 1974.

Rubén Suárez has been an alternate member of the Supervisory Committee since April 2018. He is a Director at SMS Latinoamerica and a founding partner of SMS — San Martin, Suarez y Asociados. He was a professor at the School of Economic Sciences of University of Buenos Aires and Universidad del Salvador. Permanent and alternate statutory auditor and member of the Supervisory Committee of other Argentine companies. He served as auditor at the firm Pistrelli, Díaz y Asociados (Arthur Andersen). He is a Certified Public Accountant graduated from University of Buenos Aires. He was born on January 14, 1961.

PART I - ITEM 6 DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

110

Matías Alejandro Fredriks has been an alternate member of the Supervisory Committee since April 2018. He is a partner of the firm Sáenz Valiente & Asociados. Mr. Fredriks is a lawyer graduated from Universidad Nacional de La Plata and holds a Postgraduate Degree in Administrative Law from Instituto de Estudios Judiciales de la Suprema Corte de Justicia de la Provincia de Buenos Aires and a Master’s Degree in Human Resources Management from Instituto de Empresa 1991/1992-Madrid-Spain. Before joining the firm Sáenz Valiente in 1994, Mr. Fredriks worked as a lawyer in the Corporate and Legal Advisory division of the firm “Price Waterhouse & Co.,” as an advisor of “Unión de Industriales de Quilmes,” of “Instituto de Previsión Social de la Provincia de Corrientes,” and of “Dirección Provincial de Personas Jurídicas de la Provincia de Buenos Aires”. He worked on takeovers and transfers in several privatizations such as “Yacimientos Carboníferos de Río Turbio” and “Centrales Térmicas de Generación de Energía Eléctrica del Noreste Argentino”. In addition, he worked as Director of Labor Affairs of the Liquidation Commission of Empresa Nacional de Telecomunicaciones. Since he joined the firm Sáenz Valiente, he has worked in several litigation areas, being responsible for the department in charge of labor, trade associations and trade unions matters. Mr. Fredriks has served as director and member of the Supervisory Committee at several companies before being appointed as an alternate member of the Supervisory Committee of Telecom. He was born on August 27, 1964.

Luciano Nicolás Gimenez has been an alternate member of the Supervisory Committee since April 2023. He is an associate of the law firm “EGFA Abogados”. Mr. Gimenez graduated as a lawyer from the University of Buenos Aires. He was born on December 8, 1994. He resigned as alternate member of the Supervisory Committee effective as of February 5, 2024.

Lucrecia Sofía Myburg Díaz has been an alternate member of the Supervisory Committee since April 2022. She is an associate of the law firm “EGFA Abogados”. Mrs. Myburg Díaz graduated as a lawyer from the Pontifical Catholic University of Argentina. She was born on September 24, 1995.

Compensation

The compensation of the members of the Board of Directors and the Supervisory Committee is established for each fiscal year at the Annual Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting.

Amounts detailed below are determined in terms of the currency of the transactions dates.

The aggregate compensation paid through December 31, 2023 by Telecom to the members of the Board of Directors and the Supervisory Committee, acting since April 27, 2023, and the executive officers described under “—Senior Management” above, for services in all capacities to Telecom and its subsidiaries during 2023 was approximately P$4,906 million.

As of December 31, 2023, the fees accrued by the members of the Board of Directors and Supervisory Committee, for services in all capacities to Telecom and its subsidiaries during 2023 performed from January 1, 2023 until December 31, 2023 was approximately P$765 million and P$106 million, respectively. Such accrued compensation is subject to approval by the Annual Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of 2024.

As of December 31, 2023 compensation paid as advance payments to members of the Board of Directors and Supervisory Committee for services in all capacities to Telecom and its subsidiaries from January 1, 2023 until December 31 2023 was P$765 million and P$106 million, respectively. Those advance payments were authorized by the Annual Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting held on April 27, 2023 and will be deducted from the final compensation determined by the Annual Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of 2024, based on the amount proposed by the Board of Directors to the shareholders, with the prior opinion of the Audit Committee of Telecom Argentina (the “Audit Committee”).

As of December 31, 2023, compensation accrued by Directors for technical administrative functions and the executive officers described under “—Senior Management” above, for services in all capacities to Telecom and its subsidiaries during 2023 amounted to approximately P$5,898 million (including fixed and variable compensation, retention plan benefits and, in some cases, severance payments), of which approximately P$2,731 million were paid as of December 31, 2023.

PART I - ITEM 6 DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

111

The Company’s managers (including Senior Management) receive fixed and variable compensation. A manager’s fixed compensation corresponds with the level of responsibility required for his or her position and the market rate for similar positions. Variable compensation is tied to annual performance goals. Certain managers are beneficiaries of retention plan benefits.

During the year ended December 31, 2023, Telecom Argentina was not required to set aside or accrue any amounts to provide pension, retirement or similar benefits.

Telecom Argentina has no stock option plans for its personnel, or for its members of the Board of Directors or the Supervisory Committee.

Board Practices

Under Argentine law, directors have the obligation to perform their duties with loyalty and the diligence of a prudent business person. Directors are jointly and severally liable to Telecom Argentina, our shareholders and third parties for the improper performance of their duties, for violations of law, our bylaws or regulations and for any damage caused by fraud, abuse of authority or gross negligence. Under Argentine law, specific duties may be assigned to a director by the bylaws or regulations or by resolution of the shareholders’ meeting. In these cases, a director’s liability will be determined based on the performance of these duties, provided that certain recording requirements are met. Under Argentine law, directors are prohibited from engaging in activities in competition with Telecom Argentina without express authorization of a shareholders’ meeting. Certain transactions between directors and Telecom Argentina are subject to ratification procedures established by Argentine law.

The Supervisory Committee is responsible for overseeing our compliance with our bylaws and Argentine law and, without prejudice to the role of external auditors, is required to present to the shareholders at the Annual Ordinary General Shareholders’ Meeting a report on the accuracy of the financial information presented to the shareholders by the Board of Directors. See “—Supervisory Committee” for further information regarding the Supervisory Committee.

On May 22, 2001 the Argentine government issued Decree No. 677/01, entitled “Regulation of Transparency of the Public Offering,” or the “Transparency Decree” (replaced since January 28, 2013 by equivalent Sections included in Law No. 26,831). The intention of this decree, which is also stated within Law No. 26,831, was to move towards the creation of an adequate legal framework that may strengthen the level of protection of investors in the market. The main objectives of the Transparency Decree were to promote the development, liquidity, stability, solvency and transparency of the market, generating procedures to guarantee the efficient reallocation from savings to investments and good practices in the administration of corporations.

On May 11, 2018, Productive Financing Law No. 27,440 was published in the Official Gazette. This law amended the Capital Markets Law No. 26,831 regarding the extent of the powers of the CNV; the exercise of preemptive rights on shares offered through public offering in the case of capital increases; private placements; public tender offers; and the jurisdiction of the federal commercial courts of appeals to review the resolutions issued or sanctions imposed by the CNV.

On December 28, 2018 CNV Resolution No. 779/18 was published in the Official Gazette through which the CNV Rules were modified in relation to public tender offers, introducing the definition of public tender offer, both mandatory and voluntary, changes to the procedure for delisting and cancellation from the public offering regime, a launch notice template, and changes to the Prospectus template. The Resolution also eliminates the mandatory partial tender offer in the event of an acquisition of a “significant participation” in the capital stock of a listed company that does not imply an acquisition of a controlling interest in the target listed company.

With regard to public tender offers, under Transparency Decree, the offerer was required to formulate a “fair” price to be determined by weighing the results of different company valuation methods, with a minimum floor related to the average market price for the six-month period immediately preceding the date of the agreement. Pursuant to the amendments introduced by the Productive Financing Law and CNV Resolution No. 779/18, the pricing of a tender offer is based on an objective formula which consists of the higher of two existing prices.

PART I - ITEM 6 DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

112

Capital Markets Law No. 26,831 vests in members of the Board of Directors:

the duty to disclose certain events, such as any fact or situation capable of affecting the value of the securities or the course of negotiation;
the duty of loyalty and diligence;
the duty of confidentiality; and
the duty to consider the general interests of all shareholders over the interest of the controlling shareholder.

A director will not be liable if, notwithstanding his or her presence at a meeting at which a resolution was adopted or his or her knowledge of the resolution, a written record exists of his opposition thereto and he or she reports his opposition to the Supervisory Committee before any complaint against him or her is brought before the Board of Directors, the Supervisory Committee, the Annual Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting, the competent governmental agency or the courts. Any liability of a director vis-à-vis Telecom Argentina terminates upon approval of the directors’ performance by the shareholders at a Shareholders’ Meeting, provided that shareholders representing at least 5% of our capital stock do not object and provided that this liability does not result from a violation of the Telecom Argentina’s bylaws, the Argentine law or regulations.

Additionally, Capital Markets Law No. 26,831 provides that those who infringe upon the provisions set forth therein shall be subject, in addition to civil and criminal liability (as applicable), to certain sanctions including warnings, fines, disqualification, suspension or prohibition from acting under the public offering regime.

Telecom Argentina maintains an officers’ and directors’ insurance policy covering claims brought against the officers and/or directors relating to the performance of their duties. As of the date of this Annual Report, the total amount covered by this insurance is US$67.5 million.

Executive Committee

Telecom Argentina’s bylaws grant the Board of Directors the power to appoint an Executive Committee formed by some of its members and be in charge of Telecom Argentina’s day-to-day affairs, in each case under the supervision of the Board of Directors.

The Board of Directors decided to appoint an Executive Committee on January 1, 2018. On January 31, 2018 the Board of Directors approved the Rules of the Executive Committee (Reglamento de Facultades y Funcionamiento) and on that date the Executive Committee started functions.

Audit Committee

Capital Markets Law No. 26,831 provides that companies with publicly-listed shares must appoint an Audit Committee to be formed by three or more members of the Board of Directors. Under CNV rules, the majority of the members of the Audit Committee must be independent. In order to qualify as independent, the director must be independent with respect to the company, any controlling shareholders or any shareholders that are significant participants in the company and cannot carry out executive duties for the company. A member of the Board of Directors cannot qualify as an independent director if he or she is a relative of a person who would not qualify as an independent director if such relative were appointed as a member of the Board of Directors.

In case of resignation, dismissal, death or lack of capacity of any of the members of the Audit Committee, the Board of Directors shall immediately appoint a replacement, who shall remain in office until the following Annual Shareholders Meeting.

According to Capital Markets Law No. 26,831 the duties of the Audit Committee are:

providing the market with complete information on transactions in which there might be a conflict of interest with the members of the corporate bodies or controlling shareholders;

PART I - ITEM 6 DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

113

giving an opinion on the fulfillment of legal requirements and reasonableness of the conditions for the issuance of shares or securities convertible into shares, in the case of capital increases where preemptive rights have been excluded or limited;
giving an opinion regarding transactions with related parties in certain cases;
supervising internal control systems and verifying the fulfillment of norms of conduct; and
giving an opinion regarding the Board of Directors’ proposal to designate external auditors and evaluating their independence, among others.

Additionally, according to the Regulation for the Implementation of the Audit Committee, the Audit Committee also reviews the plans of internal auditors, supervising and evaluating their performance. The Audit Committee also oversees our cybersecurity risk management process, see “Item 16K—Cybersecurity.”

On April 27, 2023 Telecom Argentina’s Board of Directors appointed Mr. Carlos Alejandro Harrison, Mr. Martín Hector D’Ambrosio and Mr. Ignacio Cruz Moran as members of Telecom Argentina’s Audit Committee. Furthermore, the Board of Directors determined that Mr. Harrison qualifies as the audit committee Financial Expert under SEC guidelines.

Under SEC, NYSE and CNV regulations, Mr. Carlos Alejandro Harrison, Mr. Martín Hector D’Ambrosio and Mr. Ignacio Cruz Moran qualify as independent directors.

As of the date of this Annual Report, the Board of Directors’ meeting for the appointment of the Audit Committee members for the fiscal year 2024 has not yet been held.

Pursuant to Capital Markets Law No. 26,831, the Audit Committee may seek the advice of lawyers and other outside professionals at Telecom Argentina’s expense, so long as the shareholders have approved expenditures for the services of such professionals. For fiscal year 2023, a budget of P$34.7 million was approved for Audit Committee expenditures. As of the date of this Annual Report, the Annual Shareholders’ Meeting approving the Audit Committee expenditures for year 2024 has not yet been held.

Risk Management Committee

In 2012, the Board of Directors of Telecom Argentina approved the implementation of an Enterprise Risk Management Process at Telecom, and the creation of a Risk Management Committee.

The Committee is composed of the CEO, CFO, Chief Audit & Compliance Officer and Finance Director. This Committee is chaired by the CEO and coordinated by the CFO. The Board of Directors of Telecom Argentina also approved the creation of the Risk Management function, which must be convened by the Finance Department and whose responsible person also serves as Secretary of the Risk Management Committee and reports to the CFO.

The duties of this committee include reviewing and implementing policies, mechanisms and procedures to identify, to measure and to mitigate risks for Telecom Argentina, and also recommend any steps or adjustments it deems necessary to reduce the risk profile of the organization.

The Company follows the guidelines provided under the Enterprise Risk Management — Integrated Framework issued by COSO, in order to carry on its Enterprise Risk Management process. Financial reporting risks are reviewed and certified under Section 404 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act.

The main risks faced by the Company are those affecting its capital, those related to its customers, internal processes and technology matters, and those related to geopolitical, macroeconomic, regulatory, labor, environmental, climate change, security, social, digital security, cybersecurity, compliance and legal matters, fraudulent actions, competition, among others.

PART I - ITEM 6 DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

114

Telecom Argentina has established different action plans that endeavor to mitigate, in whole or in part, very critical and critical risks. However, it cannot be assured that such plans are totally effective, or other events, unforeseen at the date of this Annual Report, could arise and affect the performance of Telecom Argentina.

Employees and Labor Relations

Our employees are represented by different trade unions and labor organizations, including FATEL (Argentine Federation of Telecommunications) and FOEESITRA (Argentine Federation of Workers, Specialists and Employees of the Telecommunications Industry and Services), both federations are comprised of different trade unions, UPJET (Union representing the Senior Staff of Telecommunication Companies), FOMMTRA (Argentine Federation of Unions representing the Technical and Supervisory Staff of Telephone Companies) and CEPETEL (Union of Telecommunications Professionals), associations that represent senior and professional staff and SATSAID (Argentine Union of Television, Audiovisual, Interactive and Data Services), a single union that represents both workers and the senior staff, as well as unions representing trade employees, traveling salespeople, announcers and press workers.

In addition, Telecom actively promotes communication with all trade unions and with the different stakeholders involved, creating formal and informal communication channels, at national and local levels, with union leaders and internal committees. Telecom encourages and fosters working in shared spaces with all trade unions, convening joint and ongoing work meetings to address the following agenda: Occupational Health and Safety, Environment, Training, Diversity and Occupational Guidance and Work Organization. All the union representations attended and actively participated in those meetings.

In recent years we have conducted wage negotiations with all trade unions aiming to increase salaries in Argentine Pesos as a response to high inflation rates in Argentina. Wage negotiations were conducted in a cooperative environment and we were the object of just one strike and a few direct action measures, both of which took place during salary negotiations. Collective bargaining agreements were executed with the Argentine Association of Cable Television for the employees represented by SATSAID and SALCo, and directly with the Trade Union Unity that groups the different telephone trade unions (FATEL, FOEESITRA, FOPPSTA, CEPETEL), UPJET and press worker unions.

As of December 31, 2023, the total number of Telecom employees was 21,262, as compared to 21,729 employees as of December 31, 2022 and 22,587 employees as of December 31, 2021. As of December 31, 2023, 20,663 employees were located in Argentina, 448 employees were located in Paraguay, 149 employees were located in Uruguay and two employees were located in the United States. As of December 31, 2022, 21,131 employees were located in Argentina, 441 employees were located in Paraguay, 155 employees were located in Uruguay and two employees were located in the United States. As of December 31, 2021, 21,997 employees were located in Argentina, 433 employees were located in Paraguay, 155 employees were located in Uruguay and two employees were located in the United States.

Share Ownership

Share Ownership by directors, executive officers, and Supervisory Committee members

Capital stock of Telecom Argentina held by members of the Board of Directors and Supervisory Committee is as follows:

Alejandro A. Urricelqui: 113,814 Class B Shares and 69,200 ADRs;
Mariano M. Ibáñez: 4,370 ADRs;
Baruki L.A. González: 188,500 Class B Shares;
Saturnino J. Funes: 31,277 Class B Shares; and
Pablo G. San Martín: 740 Class B Shares.

Capital stock of Telecom Argentina held by the Senior Management is as follows:

Mr. Roberto Nóbile: 11,000 Class B Shares;
Mr. Gabriel Blasi: 3,500 ADRs;

PART I - ITEM 6 DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

115

Mr. Fernando Cravero: 7,401 Class B Shares and 1,200 ADRs; and
Mr. Guillermo Páez: 928 Class B Shares.

No other member of Telecom Argentina’s senior management holds capital stock of Telecom Argentina.

Share Ownership Plan

We do not have any arrangements currently in force involving our employees, directors or senior management regarding the capital stock or notes of the Company.

At the time of the privatization of ENTel in 1990, the Argentine government created a Share Ownership Plan (“SOP”), for the employees of ENTel and CAT, which were acquired by Telecom Argentina, Telintar and Startel. Pursuant to the Privatization Regulations, 10% of Telecom Argentina’s then-outstanding shares, consisting of 98,438,098 Class C Shares, were transferred by the Argentine government to Telecom Argentina, Telintar, and Startel employees previously employed by ENTel and CAT. This transfer was made through a general transfer agreement signed on December 29, 1992. Our Class C Shares consist exclusively of shares originally sold in connection with the SOP. Most of Class C Shares were converted into Class B Shares from time to time. As of the date of this Annual Report, the outstanding number of Class C Shares is 106,734.

Disclosure of a registrant’s action to recover erroneously awarded compensation

Not applicable.

PART I - ITEM 6 DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

116

ITEM 7.MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Ownership of Telecom Argentina Common Stock

The following table sets forth, as of December 31, 2023, each beneficial owner of 5% or more of each class of Telecom Argentina’s shares.

    

    

    

Percent of

 

Number of Shares

Percent of

Total Capital

 

Owned

Class

Stock (1)

 

Class A Shares:

 

  

 

  

 

  

Fintech Telecom LLC

 

448,679,250

 

65.61

%  

20.83

%

Voting Trust (3)

 

235,177,350

 

34.39

%  

10.92

%

Total Class A Shares

 

683,856,600

 

100

%  

31.75

%

Class B Shares (listed in BCBA):

 

  

 

  

 

  

ANSES - FGS

 

246,018,839

 

39.17

%  

11.42

%

Others (2)

 

382,039,180

 

60.83

%  

17.74

%

Total Class B Shares

 

628,058,019

 

100

%  

29.16

%

Class C Shares:

 

  

 

  

 

  

Others

 

106,734

 

100

%  

0.01

%

Total Class C Shares

 

106,734

 

100

%  

0.01

%

Class D Shares:

 

  

 

  

 

  

Cablevisión Holding S.A.

 

606,489,308

72.06

%

28.16

%

Voting Trust (3)

 

235,177,350

 

27.94

%  

10.92

%

Total Class D Shares

 

841,666,658

 

100

%  

39.08

%

Total Capital Stock

 

2,153,688,011

 

 

100.00

%

(1)Represents the respective percentage over the total of Telecom Argentina’s shares, regardless of their class.
(2)Includes 198,085,167 Class B Shares in the form of ADSs owned by Fintech representing 31.54% of total Class B Common Shares and 9.2% of Telecom Argentina’s total capital stock
(3)Trust created under the Voting Trust Agreement of April 15, 2019, composed of 50% of Class A Shares and 50% of Class D Shares. Trustees: Héctor Horacio Magnetto and David Martínez Guzmán. See “Item 7—Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—Major Shareholders—Telecom Shareholders’ Agreement”.

As of December 31, 2023, there were approximately 68.74 million American Depositary Shares outstanding (representing rights to 343.72 million Class B Shares or 54.7% of total Class B Shares). Further, as of December 31, 2023, there were approximately 63 registered holders of American Depositary Shares in the United States and approximately 35,400 holders of Class B Shares in Argentina.

Because some Class B Shares are held by representatives, the number and domicile of registered shareholders may not exactly reflect the number and domicile of beneficial shareholders.

All shares have equal voting rights. Class A Shares and Class D Shares have certain veto rights, as described in “—The Telecom Shareholders’ Agreement”. and the Company’s bylaws.

The Ordinary and Extraordinary General Meeting and the Special Meeting of Class C Shares, held on December 15, 2011, approved the power for the additional conversion of up to 4,593,274 Class C Shares into the same amount of Class B Shares in one or more tranches. As of December 31, 2023, 4,486,540 Class C Shares were converted into Class B Shares in 13 tranches. As of the date of this Annual Report, 106,734 Class C Shares are still pending to be converted into Class B Shares.

PART I - ITEM 7 MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

117

Major Shareholders

Cablevision Holding S.A. is the direct holder of 28.16% of Telecom Argentina’s total capital stock (in the form of Class D Shares). Additionally, both VLG Argentina (currently merged and absorbed by CVH) and Fintech, contributed to the Voting Trust, in accordance with the Shareholders´ Agreement, shares representing 10.92% of the capital of the Company so the shares subject to such agreement represent 21.84% of the total capital of the Company (the “Shares in Trust”). See “Item 7—Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—Major Shareholders—Telecom Shareholders’ Agreement”.

Cablevisión Holding S.A. is an Argentine corporation and its primary purpose is to hold capital stock in corporations whose object and purpose is to provide Information and Communication Technology Services (ICT Services) and to provide Audiovisual Communication Services (ICT Services). Its controlling shareholder, in turn, is GC Dominio S.A, another Argentine corporation.

On April 28, 2023, the Ordinary and Extraordinary General Shareholders’ Meeting of CVH approved the corporate reorganization process consisting of the merger by absorption of VLG and the Pre-merger Commitment. The Definitive Merger Commitment was executed by public deed dated June 5, 2023.

On September 1, 2023, IGJ proceeded to register in its Public Registry the merger by absorption of VLG and its dissolution without liquidation with effect from January 1, 2023.

Fintech Telecom LLC is the direct holder of 30.03% of Telecom Argentina’s total capital stock (Class A Shares and ADS representing Class B Shares). Until December 31, 2017 Fintech was Telecom Argentina’s controlling shareholder.

Fintech Telecom LLC is a Delaware (United States) limited liability company, and is a wholly-owned direct subsidiary of Fintech Holdings Inc. Its primary purpose is to hold, directly and indirectly, the securities of Telecom Argentina. Fintech Holdings Inc., a Delaware (United States) corporation, is directly controlled by Mr. David Martínez.

Telecom Shareholders’ Agreement

On July 7, 2017, Fintech Telecom, LLC (“FTL”), certain of its affiliates and CVH entered into a shareholders’ agreement (“Telecom Shareholders Agreement”), which regulates certain matters as to the corporate governance of Telecom Argentina which became effective upon completion of the Merger, while other provisions became effective simultaneously upon execution of the Telecom Shareholders’ Agreement.

The Telecom Shareholders’ Agreement provides, among other matters, the following:

Any shareholders party to the Telecom Shareholders’ Agreement (any such shareholder, a “SHA Party”) are subject to restrictions on the transfer of all their Telecom Argentina shares including (i) the right of first refusal to purchase such shares from a selling SHA Party, (ii) certain tag-along rights of each other SHA Party and (iii) so long as a SHA Party holds at least a certain minimum amount of shares, such SHA Party will be entitled to certain drag-along rights pursuant to which it will be able to require the other SHA Parties to sell, together with the dragging SHA Party, a number of shares that represents in the aggregate at least fifty-one percent (51%) of our shares;
FTL and CVH undertook to execute a voting trust agreement (the “Voting Trust Agreement”), which was formalized on April 15, 2019, pursuant to which FTL and VLG Argentina contributed 235,177,350 Class A Shares and 235,177,350 Class D Shares of Telecom, respectively, to a voting trust (the “Voting Trust”) which, when added to the shares that CVH holds (directly and indirectly) in Telecom, exceed fifty percent (50%) of the outstanding shares, and (ii) CVH and Fintech Telecom LLC each appointed a co-trustee. The shares contributed to the Voting Trust will be voted by the co-trustee of CVH in accordance with the vote of CVH or following the instructions of CVH, except in respect of certain matters subject to veto under the Telecom Shareholders’ Agreement, in which case such shares will be voted by the co-trustee of Fintech Telecom LLC in accordance with the vote of Fintech Telecom LLC or following the instructions of Fintech Telecom LLC;

PART I - ITEM 7 MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

118

The Board of Directors of Telecom Argentina will consist of an odd number of members between 11 to 17. Each of FTL, CVH and the Voting Trust will vote or cause to be voted, their shares, whether held directly or indirectly, in favor of the election of directors designated by FTL and CVH, a majority of which will be designated by CVH, subject to CVH and FTL satisfying certain ownership thresholds of the shares;
Subject to CVH and FTL satisfying certain ownership thresholds of the shares, CVH will be entitled to designate the Chief Executive Officer and all key employees of Telecom and its subsidiaries other than the CFO and the Internal Auditor, including the Chief Operating Officer, Chief Technical Officer, Director of Supply, Legal Director, Human Resources Director, Regulatory Affairs Director, Institutional Relationship Director, Chief of Compliance, any other officer or employee having a direct line of reporting to the CEO or a joint line of reporting to the CEO and the Vice Chairman of the Board or the Deputy CEO and any other officer or employee holding commensurate responsibilities. FTL will be entitled to designate the Chief Financial Officer and the Internal Auditor;
An executive committee of Telecom will be established consisting of five members, of which three will be designated by CVH and two will be designated by FTL, in each case subject to the SHA Party maintaining certain ownership thresholds. In addition, CVH will be entitled to designate two members of our Audit Committee and three members of our Supervisory Committee (comisión fiscalizadora) and FTL will be entitled to designate one member of the Audit Committee and two members of the Supervisory Committee;
Prior to each of our shareholder meetings or any other meeting upon which certain veto matters will be decided, CVH and FTL agree to hold meetings at which their representatives will determine how CVH and FTL, and the Voting Trust, if in effect, will vote their shares at such meeting in accordance with the provisions of the TEO Shareholders Agreement;
We are required to maintain a listing of the Class B Shares and the ADSs representing the Class B Shares on the BYMA and the New York Stock Exchange, respectively;
Each SHA Party and its respective affiliates is prohibited from acquiring any of our capital stock from a third party without (i) proper notice to the other SHA Parties and (ii) the right for such other SHA Parties to purchase fifty percent (50%) of the shares to be purchased from the third party; provided that CVH may acquire an additional two percent (2%) of our shares without complying with the foregoing obligations;
In the event that a tender offer (oferta pública de adquisición) was required in connection with the Merger, CVH would launch such tender offer to acquire Class B Shares, and FTL would be jointly and severally liable for payment for, and would receive following the closing of such tender offer, fifty percent (50%) of any of our Class B shares tendered in such tender offer; subject to the right of CVH to acquire 100% of the shares tendered until it acquired shares (including any Telecom shares acquired (other than from FTL and its affiliates) since the Merger) representing up to 2% of Telecom’s total capital stock, see “Item 7— Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions — Major Shareholders—Public tender offer due to change of control”;
Subject to satisfying certain ownership thresholds, each of FTL and CVH, and certain other shareholders that subsequently become a SHA Party, will have certain veto rights over our corporate governance matters;
The SHA Parties agree to cause us to declare and pay dividends if our consolidated operating cash flows exceed a certain threshold, after taking into consideration certain adjustments; and
Each SHA Party will have certain registration rights with respect to our Class B Shares subject to the SHA Party satisfying certain ownership thresholds.

A copy of the Telecom Shareholders Agreement has been filed with the SEC and can be found as Exhibit 99.3 incorporated by reference into the Schedule 13D filed on January 2, 2018. As a result of the Merger and the arrangements resulting from the Telecom Shareholders Agreement, CVH has been considered to have acquired control of us.

PART I - ITEM 7 MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

119

Related Party Transactions

We have been involved in a number of transactions with our related parties since the Transfer Date.

Our policy is to make transactions with related parties on arm’s-length basis.

In addition, Section 72 of Capital Markets Law No. 26,831 provides that before a publicly-listed company may enter into an act or contract involving a “relevant amount” with a related party or parties, the publicly-listed company must obtain approval from its Board of Directors and obtain a valuation report from its Audit Committee or two independent valuation firms that demonstrates that the terms of the transaction are consistent with those that could be obtained at an arm’s-length basis. If the Audit Committee or two independent valuation firms do not find that the terms of the contract are consistent with those that could be obtained on an arm’s-length basis, approval must be obtained from the shareholders. “Relevant amount” means an amount which exceeds 1% of the issuers’ equity as contained in the latest approved financial statements.

Related-party transactions involving Telecom Argentina that exceed 1% of its shareholders’ equity are subject to a prior approval process established by Capital Markets Law No. 26,831, Telecom’s Bylaws and the Rules of the Executive Committee to verify that the agreement could reasonably be considered to be in accordance with normal and habitual market practice.

Transactions with related parties of Grupo Clarín for the year ended December 31, 2023 resulted in income for telecommunication services rendered by us of approximately P$1,299 million and expenses for services received of approximately P$25,399 million.

Transactions with associates and joint venture resulted in income for services rendered of P$219 million as of December 31, 2023. Additionally, transactions with associates and joint venture resulted in expenses of P$870 million as of December 31, 2023.

As of December 31, 2023, we had no loans outstanding to the executive officers of Telecom Argentina.

For further information on our related party transactions and our outstanding balances with related parties, please see Note 27 to our Consolidated Financial Statements, are incorporated herein by reference.

Interests of Experts and Counsel

Not applicable.

PART I - ITEM 7 MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

120

ITEM 8.FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information

See Item 18 for Telecom Argentina’s Consolidated Financial Statements. For a description of events that have occurred since the date of the Company’s Financial Statements, see “Item 4—Information on the Company—Introduction—Recent Developments”.

Legal Proceedings

The descriptions of the legal proceedings, including labor claims, general proceedings and consumer trade union proceedings in Note 19 to our Consolidated Financial Statements are incorporated herein by reference.

Dividend Policy

See the descriptions of Dividend Policy in “Item 10—Additional Information—Telecom Argentina’s capital stock–Dividends”, and the descriptions of dividends paid in “Item 5—Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Liquidity—Dividend payments”.

Significant Changes

Except as identified in this Annual Report, no undisclosed significant changes have occurred since the date of the Consolidated Financial Statements. See “Item 3—Key Information—Risk Factors” and “Item 5—Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021—Factors Affecting Results of Operations”.

PART I - ITEM 8 FINANCIAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

121

ITEM 9.    THE OFFER AND LISTING

The number of shares as of December 31, 2023, was as follows:

    

Outstanding

Class of shares (*)

Shares

Class A Shares

 

683,856,600

Class B Shares

 

628,058,019

Class C Shares

 

106,734

Class D Shares

 

841,666,658

Total

 

2,153,688,011

(*) Share (nominal value P$1 each) with one vote each

The Class B Shares are currently listed on the BYMA under the symbol “TECO2”. The ADSs are currently listed on the NYSE under the symbol “TEO”. Each ADS issued by the Depositary represents rights to five Class B Shares.

The ADSs by the Depositary under the Deposit Agreement dated as of May 7, 2021, among Telecom Argentina, the Depositary and the registered holders from time to time of the ADSs issued thereunder (the “Deposit Agreement”) trade on the NYSE. Each ADS represents rights to five Class B Shares.

The BYMA is the largest stock market in Argentina. Trading on the BYMA is conducted by continuous open auction, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each business day. The BYMA also operates a continuous electronic market system each business day, on which privately arranged trades are registered and made public.

Certain historical information regarding the BYMA is set forth in the table below.

    

2023

    

2022

    

2021

Market capitalization (P$ billions) (1)

 

42,042

 

9,358

 

4,287

As percent of GDP (2)

 

21

 

12

 

10

Volume (P$ million) (1)(3)

 

379,665,221

 

110,512,821

 

57,837,432

Average daily trading volume (P$ million) (1)(3)

 

1,562,408

 

451,073

 

232,278

Number of traded companies (including Cedears)

 

370

 

338

 

325

(1)End-of-period figures for trading on the BYMA (includes domestic and non-domestic public companies).
(2)According to INDEC revised figures of GDP at current prices for the selected period, published as of December 2023. The amount of 2023 is based on the last information available as of the filing date.
(3)The amount of 2023 is based on the sum of the information published monthly.

Source: Instituto Argentino de Mercado de Capitales

PART I - ITEM 9 THE OFFER AND LISTING

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

122

Plan of Distribution

Not applicable.

Selling Shareholders

Not applicable.

Dilution

Not applicable.

Expenses of the Issue

Not applicable.

PART I - ITEM 9 THE OFFER AND LISTING

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

123

ITEM 10.ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

MEMORANDUM AND ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION

Register

Telecom Argentina’s bylaws were registered before the IGJ on July 13, 1990, under number 4,570, book 108, volume “A” of Corporations. General Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting and Class A Shares and Class D Shares Special Shareholders’ Meetings held on October 10, 2019 approved the amendment of Sections 4, 5 and 6 of the Bylaws, so that Class A Shares and Class D Shares may be certified shares in accordance with applicable law or book-entry shares, as decided by Class A Shares and Class D Shares Special Shareholders’ Meetings, respectively. The registration of these amendments before IGJ occurred on March 13, 2020. Afterwards, General Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting and Class A Shares and Class D Shares Special Shareholders’ Meetings held on December 11, 2020 approved the amendment of Section 10 of the Company’s Bylaws so as to establish a minimum prior notice for any call to Board Meetings of five calendar days, except in the event of urgency, in which case the Meeting may be called with a prior notice of one day, and to establish new means of notification of calls for said Meetings. The registration of these amendments before IGJ occurred on February 1, 2021.

Telecom Argentina’s bylaws with all subsequent amendments were registered before the IGJ on August 31, 2021, under number 13595, book 104 of Corporations.

Object and Purpose

Telecom Argentina’s object and purpose is to provide, directly or through third parties, or in association with third parties, ICT Services, whether these ICT services are fixed, mobile, wired, wireless, national or international, with or without its own infrastructure, and to provide Audiovisual Communication Services (“AC Services”).

Pursuant to its object and purpose, Telecom Argentina may supply, lease, sell and market in any manner, all kinds of equipment, infrastructure, goods and services related to or supplementary with ICT Services and AC Services. Telecom Argentina may undertake works and provide all kinds of services, including advisory and safety services, in connection with ICT Services and AC Services.

To fulfill its object and purpose, Telecom Argentina has full legal capacity to acquire rights, undertake obligations and take any action that is not forbidden by law and by its bylaws, including the capacity to borrow funds, publicly or privately, through the issue of debentures and negotiable obligations. Telecom Argentina may constitute companies, acquire equity interests in other companies and enter into any kinds of association agreements.

Any amendment to the corporate object and purpose shall be in compliance with the respective legal regulations in force.

Telecom Argentina’s capital stock

The following is a summary of the rights of the holders of Telecom Argentina shares. These rights are set out in Telecom Argentina’s estatutos sociales (bylaws) or are provided for by applicable Argentine law. These rights may differ from those typically provided to shareholders of U.S. companies under the corporation laws of some states of the United States.

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

124

Limited liability of shareholders

Under Argentine law, a shareholder’s liability for losses of a company is generally limited to the value of his or her shareholdings in the company. Under Argentine law, however, a shareholder who votes in favor of a resolution that is subsequently declared void by a court as contrary to Argentine law or a company’s bylaws (or regulations, if any) may be held jointly and severally liable for damages to such company, to other shareholders or to third parties resulting from such resolution. In connection with recommending certain actions for approval by shareholders, the Board of Directors of Telecom Argentina occasionally obtained opinions of internal and/or external counsel concerning the compliance of the actions with Argentine law and our bylaws (or regulations, if any). We currently intend to obtain similar opinions in the future as the circumstances require it. Although the issue is not free from doubt, based on advice of counsel, we believe that a court in Argentina in which a case has been properly filed would hold that a non-controlling shareholder voting in good faith and without a conflict of interest in favor of such a resolution based on the advice of counsel that such resolution is not contrary to Argentine law or our bylaws or regulations, would not be liable under this provision.

Voting Rights

Pursuant Telecom Argentina’s bylaws, each share entitles the holder thereof to one vote at the shareholders’ meetings. All of Telecom Argentina’s directors are appointed jointly by shareholders in an Ordinary General Shareholders’ Meeting.

Under Argentine law, shareholders are entitled to cumulative voting rights for the election of up to one-third of the vacancies to be filled on the Board of Directors and the Supervisory Committee. If any shareholder notifies a company of its decision to exercise its cumulative voting rights not later than three business days prior to the date of the Shareholders’ Meeting, all shareholders are entitled, but not required, to exercise their cumulative voting rights as well.

Through the exercise of cumulative voting rights, the aggregate number of votes that a shareholder may cast is multiplied by the number of vacancies to be filled in the election, and each shareholder may allocate the total number of its votes among a number of candidates not exceeding one-third of the number of vacancies to be filled. Shareholders not exercising cumulative voting rights are entitled to cast the number of votes represented by their shares for each candidate. The candidates receiving the most votes are elected to the vacancies filled by cumulative and non-cumulative voting. In case of tie between the candidates voted under the same system, the two candidates that received the most votes will participate in a run-off election, and the candidate receiving the most votes in the run-off election will be deemed elected.

In addition, any person who enters into a voting agreement with other shareholders in a public company must inform the CNV of that voting agreement and must file a copy of that voting agreement before the CNV.

Shareholders’ Meetings

Shareholders’ Meetings may be ordinary meetings or extraordinary meetings. Telecom Argentina is required to hold an Annual Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting in each fiscal year to consider the matters outlined in Section 234 of the GCL, Section 71 of Law No. 26,831 and CNV rules, including but not limited to:

approval of Telecom Argentina’s financial statements and general performance of the directors and members of the Supervisory Committee for the preceding fiscal year;
election, removal and remuneration of directors and members of the Supervisory Committee;
allocation of profits; and
appointment of external auditors.

Matters which may be considered at these or other ordinary meetings include, but are not limited to:

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

125

consideration of the responsibility of directors and members of the Supervisory Committee; and
capital increases and the issuance of notes.

Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meetings may be called at any time to consider matters beyond the scope of the ordinary shareholder’s meetings, including amendments to the bylaws, issuances of certain securities that permit profit sharing, anticipated dissolution, merger and transformation from one type of company to another, etc.

Shareholders’ Meetings may be convened by the Board of Directors or the members of the Supervisory Committee. The Board of Directors or the members of the Supervisory Committee are also required to convene shareholders’ meetings upon the request of any shareholder or group of shareholders holding at least 5% in the aggregate capital stock of Telecom Argentina. If the Board of Directors or the members of the Supervisory Committee fail to do so, the meeting may be called by the CNV or by the Argentine courts.

Notice of the Shareholders’ Meeting must be published in the Official Gazette and in a widely circulated newspaper in Argentina, at least twenty days before the shareholder’s meeting. In order to attend a meeting, shareholders must submit proper evidence of their ownership of shares via book-entry account held at the Caja de Valores S.A. in the case of Class B Shares and Class C Shares, and via book-entry account held by the Company of Class A Shares and Class D Shares. Entitled to attend the meeting, a shareholder may be represented by proxy.

Holders of ADSs are not entitled to attend or vote at a shareholders’ meeting but its Deposit Agreement provides for certain procedures to instruct the Depositary to vote deposited Class B Shares in accordance with instructions provided by the holders of the ADSs. For voting instructions to be valid, the depositary must receive them on or before the date indicated in the relevant notice. There is no guarantee that an ADS holder will receive voting materials in time to instruct the depositary to vote.

The quorum for Ordinary Shareholders’ Meetings consists of a majority of the capital stock entitled to vote. In Ordinary Shareholders’ Meetings, resolutions may be adopted by the affirmative vote of a majority of the shareholders present that have issued a valid vote, without counting voluntary abstentions. If there is no quorum at the meeting, a second Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting may be called. The meeting in a second call can be held whatever the number of the shareholders at the meeting, and resolutions may be adopted by a majority of the shareholders present.

The quorum for Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meetings is 60% of the capital stock entitled to vote. If there is no quorum at the extraordinary shareholders’ meeting, a second extraordinary shareholders’ meeting may be called. The quorum for extraordinary shareholders’ meeting in a second call is the 30% of the present capital stock. In both cases, decisions are adopted by a majority of valid votes, except for certain fundamental matters, including:

mergers and spin-offs, when Telecom Argentina is not the surviving entity;
anticipated liquidation;
change of Telecom Argentina’s domicile to a domicile outside Argentina;
total or partial repayment of capital; or
a substantial change in the corporate object and purpose.

Each of these actions requires a favorable vote of more than 50% of all the capital stock entitled to vote.

In some of these cases, a dissenting shareholder is entitled to appraisal rights.

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

126

Any resolution adopted by the shareholders at Ordinary or Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meetings that affects the rights of one particular class of capital stock must also be approved or ratified by a special meeting of that class of shareholders. The special meeting will be governed by the rules for Ordinary Shareholders’ Meetings.

In addition, and pursuant to the amendment to the bylaws approved on August 31, 2017, a favorable resolution by a special meeting of the Class A and/ or the Class D will be required in order to approve any Supermajority Matter. That special meeting will be required to the extent the Class A or the Class D represent more than 15% of the capital stock, respectively, or 20% of the capital stock if the decision involves the approval of the Business Plan or the Annual Budget.

Dividends

Dividends can be lawfully paid and declared only out of our realized and liquid profit. The declaration, amount and payment of dividends are determined by a majority vote at a shareholders’ ordinary meeting of Telecom Argentina’s capital stock.

For these purposes, the Board of Directors must submit our financial statements for the previous fiscal year, together with a report thereon by the Board of Directors, to the shareholders for their approval at an Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting.

In preparing the Annual Report in compliance with Argentine requirements, at the end of each fiscal year, the Board of Directors analyzes Telecom Argentina’s economic and financial position and its compliance with the abovementioned restrictions. The Board of Directors also takes into account the funds needed for operative purposes for the following fiscal year. The Board of Directors then proposes a course of action with respect to retained earnings, which may or may not include a dividend distribution. The decision with regards to the proposal of the Board of Directors is made by Telecom Argentina’s shareholders at the Shareholders’ Meeting. 

Upon the approval of the financial statements, the shareholders determine the allocation of Telecom Argentina’s net profits (if any). Under the GCL, dividends may only be declared out of liquid and realized profits determined based on non-consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP effective in Argentina (IFRS Accounting Standards in the case of listed companies as Telecom Argentina) and other applicable regulations issued by the CNV and other regulatory bodies. Furthermore, liquid and realized profits can only be distributed when all accumulated losses from past periods have been absorbed and the legal reserve has been constituted or reconstituted. In addition, the Telecom Shareholders Agreement includes certain provisions with respect to the payment of dividends under certain circumstances Under CNV rules, a Shareholders’ Meeting convened to approve the financial statements in which retained earnings are positive must make a specific decision on the use of such earnings in accordance with the GCL. The Shareholders’ Meeting must resolve on its distribution as cash dividends, capitalization with issuance of paid-in shares, use to create reserves other than statutory reserves, or a combination of such alternatives. In addition, the GCL requires Argentine companies to allocate 5% of any net profits to a legal reserve, until the amount of this reserve equals 20% of our capital stock. The legal reserve is not available for distribution. The remainder of net profits may be paid as dividends on common stock or retained as a voluntary reserve or other account, or a combination thereof, all as determined by the shareholders. As a result of this rules the balance of retained earnings after the allocation approved by the Annual Shareholders’ Meeting should be zero. As provided by CNV Resolution No. 609/12, positive retained earnings generated by the mandatory adoption of IFRS Accounting Standards as from January 1, 2012, should be assigned to a special reserve that can only be utilized for its capitalization or to absorb negative retained earnings.

Furthermore, CNV Resolution No. 777/18 established that “earnings distributions shall be considered in the currency as of the Shareholders’ Meeting date using the price index corresponding to the previous month of said Meeting”.

Dividends may not be paid if the legal reserve has been impaired, nor until it has been fully replenished. Shareholders’ rights to collect dividends expire three years after the distribution date pursuant to Section 17 of Telecom Argentina’s bylaws.

Argentine law permits the Board of Directors of certain companies, such as Telecom Argentina, to approve the distribution of anticipated dividends on the basis of financial statements especially prepared for the purpose of paying such dividends, provided that both the external auditors and the Supervisory Committee have issued an opinion report. The actual payment of these dividends is made on an interim basis, and they are paid on account of the dividends to be determined in the Annual Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting on the basis of the financial statements for the year.

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

127

See Notes 13 and 21 to our Consolidated Financial Statements regarding restrictions on distributions of profits and dividends.

Capital increase and reduction

Telecom Argentina may increase its capital upon authorization of an Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting. All capital increases must be confirmed by the CNV, published in the Official Gazette and recorded with the IGJ. Capital reductions may be voluntary or mandatory. Shares issued in connection with any capital increase must be divided among the various classes in proportion to the number of shares of each class outstanding at the date of the issuance, provided that the number of shares of each class actually issued may vary based on the exercise of preemptive rights and additional accretion rights in accordance with the procedure described under “—Preemptive Rights” below.

A voluntary capital reduction must be approved by an Extraordinary Shareholders’ meeting and may take place only after notice thereof is published and creditors are given an opportunity to obtain payment or collateralization of their claims, or attachment, except in redemption cases (with liquid and realized profits).

In accordance with Section 206 of the GCL, reduction of a company’s capital stock is mandatory when losses have exceeded reserves and at least 50% of the stated capital (capital stock plus inflation adjustment).

Preemptive Rights

Under Argentine law, holders of a company’s common shares of any given class have preferential or preemptive rights, proportional to the number of shares owned by each shareholder, to subscribe for any shares of capital stock of the same class as the shares owned by the shareholder or for any securities convertible into such shares issued by the company.

In the event of a capital increase, shareholders of Telecom Argentina of any given class have a preemptive right to purchase any issue of shares of such class in an amount sufficient to maintain their proportionate ownership of Telecom Argentina’s capital stock. For any shares of a class not preempted by any holder of that class, the remaining holders of the class will assume pro rata the preemptive rights of those shareholders that are not exercising their preemptive rights. Pursuant to Telecom Argentina’s bylaws, if any Class B or Class C Shares are not preempted by the existing shareholders of each such class, the other classes may preempt such class. However, if any shares of the other Classes of Shares are not preempted by the existing holders of such class, holders of Class B or Class C Shares shall have no preemptive rights with respect to such shares.

A notice to the shareholders of their opportunity to preempt the capital increase must be published for three days in the Official Gazette and a widely circulated newspaper in Argentina. The period for the exercise of preemptive rights is 30 days following the last day of publication and may be reduced to 10 days by resolution of an extraordinary shareholders’ meeting. Pursuant to the Capital Markets Law, as amended by the Productive Financing Law No. 27,440, in the case of any capital increase by means of a public offer, the preemptive rights will be exercised by the shareholders exclusively through the subscription and allocation procedures determined in the offering memorandum, and the 30-day period will not apply; subject to the condition that the bylaws of the company expressly provide it and to the approval of the shareholders’ meeting.

Pursuant to the GCL, preemptive rights may only be restricted or suspended in certain particular and exceptional cases by a resolution of an Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting when required by the interest of the company.

Conflicts of Interest

A shareholder that votes on a business transaction in which its interest conflicts with that of Telecom Argentina may be liable for damages under Argentine law, but only if the transaction would not have been approved without his or her vote. See “Item 3—Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Argentina—Our Shareholders may be subject to liability under Argentine law for certain votes of their securities”. See also “—Powers of the Directors” below for a description of conflict of interest regarding Directors.

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

128

Redemption or Repurchase

Telecom Argentina’s stock is subject to redemption in connection with a reduction of capital by a majority vote of shareholders at an Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting. Pursuant to the GCL, Telecom Argentina may repurchase the stock with liquid and realized profits or available reserves, upon a determination of the Board of Directors that the repurchase is necessary in order to avoid severe damage to our business (subject to shareholder consideration) or in connection with a merger or acquisition. In addition, Telecom Argentina can purchase up to 10% of its capital stock in the BCBA pursuant to Law No. 26,831, complying with the requirements and procedures stated therein. If the purchase is made pursuant to Law No. 26,831, Telecom Argentina must resell the repurchased shares within three years and its shareholders will have preemptive rights to purchase the shares, except in case of an employee compensation program or plan, or in case the shares are distributed among all the shareholders proportionately or regarding the sale of an amount of shares that in any period of 12 months does not exceed 1% of the Telecom Argentina’s capital stock. In such cases, the three-year period can be extended with the previous approval by a Shareholders’ Meeting.

Appraisal Rights

Whenever certain extraordinary resolutions are adopted at an Extraordinary Shareholders’ meeting, such as a merger of Telecom Argentina into another entity, a change of corporate object and purpose, transformation from one type of corporate form to another, or the voluntary withdrawal from the public offering regime or listing of Telecom Argentina’s shares, any shareholder dissenting from the adoption of any resolution may withdraw from Telecom Argentina and receive the book value of his or her shares determined on the basis of Telecom Argentina’s annual financial statements (as approved by the Annual Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting), provided that the dissenting shareholder exercises its appraisal rights within five days following the Shareholders’ Meeting at which the resolution was adopted. This right may be exercised within 15 days following the meeting if the dissenting shareholder was absent and provided he or she can prove that he or she was a shareholder on the day of the Shareholders’ Meeting at which the resolution was adopted. In the case of a merger of Telecom Argentina or a spin-off of Telecom Argentina, no appraisal rights may be exercised if Telecom Argentina is the surviving company or if the shares that Telecom shareholders would receive as a result of such merger or spin-off would also be admitted to the public offering regime or listed in Argentina.

Appraisal rights are extinguished if the resolution is subsequently overturned at another Shareholders’ Meeting held within sixty days of the expiration of the time period during which absent shareholders may exercise their appraisal rights.

Payment on the appraisal rights must be made within one year of the date of the Shareholders’ Meeting at which the resolution was adopted. In the case of voluntary withdrawal from the public offering regime or listing of Telecom Argentina’s shares, the payment period is reduced to sixty days from the date of the approval of the voluntary withdrawal.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, should Telecom Argentina decide to voluntarily withdraw its shares from the public offering regime or listing in Argentina, pursuant to Section 97 of Law No. 26,831, a tender offer by Telecom Argentina at a fair price (precio equitativo) to be determined in accordance with certain parameters must be conducted before such withdrawal.

Liquidation

Upon liquidation of Telecom Argentina, one or more liquidators may be appointed to wind up its affairs. All outstanding shares of common stock will be entitled to participate equally in any distribution upon liquidation.

In the event of liquidation, the assets of Telecom Argentina shall be applied to satisfy its debts and liabilities. If any surplus remains, it shall be distributed to the holders of shares in proportion to their holdings.

Acquisitions of 5% or more of the voting stock of a public company

Under Argentine law, any person acquiring 5% or more of the voting stock of a public company must inform the CNV in writing of the acquisition of such voting stock. Additionally, such person must inform the CNV in writing of each additional acquisition of the voting stock of that particular company, until such person acquires control of that company, in which case the person shall be subject to a different ownership disclosure regime.

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

129

Powers of the Directors

The bylaws of Telecom Argentina do not contain any provision regarding the ability to vote on a proposal, arrangement or contract where a director is an interested party. Under Argentine law, a director may sign contracts with the company related to the company’s activities so long as the conditions are on an arm’s-length basis. If such contract does not meet such conditions, the agreement may only be subscribed with the prior approval of the Board of Directors or, in absence of quorum, with the approval of the Supervisory Committee.

Such transactions must be dealt with at the following Shareholders’ Meeting, and if such meeting does not approve them, the Board of Directors or the Supervisory Committee (as the case may be) are jointly responsible for any damages caused to the company. Argentine law also requires that if a director has a personal interest contrary to Telecom Argentina’s, he or she must notify the Board of Directors and to the Supervisory Committee. The director must refrain from participating in any deliberations or he or she may be held jointly and severally liable for all damages caused to Telecom Argentina as a result of the conflict of interests.

Additionally, Law No. 26,831 dictates that the contracts between a company and a director (that qualifies as a “related party”) when they exceed 1% of the shareholders’ equity of the company, it must be submitted to prior approval of the Audit Committee or of two independent evaluation firms to ensure that the transaction is in accordance with market conditions. Such transactions must also be approved by the Board of Directors and reported to the CNV and the exchanges on which the shares of the company are listed. If the Audit Committee or the independent evaluation firms have not determined the terms of the transaction to be “according to market conditions,” then the contract in question must be submitted for consideration at a Shareholders’ Meeting.

Section 10 of the bylaws of Telecom Argentina establishes that the remuneration of the members of the Board of Directors is to be determined by the shareholders at their Annual Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting. The Audit Committee is to issue a prior opinion on the reasonability of the proposed remuneration, which the Board of Directors submits for approval to the shareholders. Directors cannot vote on the resolution concerning their compensation or the compensation of any other director.

The bylaws of Telecom Argentina do not contain any provision regarding the possibility of granting loans to members of the Board of Directors or to the Company executives.

Members of the Board of Directors of Telecom Argentina or its subsidiaries or parent company cannot be appointed as members of the Supervisory Committee.

The bylaws of Telecom Argentina do not establish a maximum age to be member of the Board of Directors.

Neither the bylaws of Telecom Argentina nor any Argentine law require the members of the Board of Directors to be shareholders.

Limitations on foreign investment in Argentina

Under the Argentine Foreign Investment Law, as amended (the “FIL”), the purchase of stock by an individual or legal entity domiciled abroad or by a local company of foreign capital (as defined in the FIL) constitutes a foreign investment subject to the FIL. Foreign investments generally are unrestricted. However, foreign investments in certain industries, such as broadcasting, are restricted as to percentage. No approval is necessary to purchase Class B Shares. The FIL does not limit the right of non-resident or foreign owners to hold or vote the Class B Shares, and there are no restrictions in Telecom Argentina’s bylaws limiting the rights of non-residents or non-Argentines to hold or to vote on Telecom Argentina’s Class B Shares. Notwithstanding the foregoing, regulations implemented by the CNV require that all shareholders that are foreign companies who are registered to participate at a Shareholders’ Meeting should bear adequate proxy representation according to argentine law. To acquire participation in a company in Argentina, non-Argentine companies are required to comply with the share ownership registration requirements with the Argentine Registry of Commerce as provided for under Section 123 of the GCL.

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

130

Change of Control

There are no provisions in the bylaws of Telecom Argentina which may have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in control of Telecom Argentina and that would only operate with respect to a merger, acquisition or corporate restructuring involving Telecom Argentina or any of its subsidiaries, except in case of merger (Section 10. VI of the Bylaws).

Under Law No. 26,831, modified by Law N° 27,440, a party which has individually or through “actuación concertada” (concerted action) attained control in a publicly traded corporation must offer a fair price (precio equitativo) as defined in Law No. 26,831, as amended, to acquire all shares of such corporation.

Under Decree No. 764/00, as amended by Decree No. 267/15, the loss of control of a licensee company such as Telecom Argentina is subject to the approval of ENACOM.

MATERIAL CONTRACTS

For information regarding our material contracts, see “Item 5—Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Liquidity and Capital Resources” and “Item 7—Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—Major Shareholders— Telecom Shareholders’ Agreement”. We are not a party to the Telecom Shareholders’ Agreement.

FOREIGN INVESTMENT AND EXCHANGE CONTROLS IN ARGENTINA

On September 1, 2019, the Argentine government issued Decree No. 609/19 (the “FX Decree”) by which foreign exchange controls were temporarily reinstated until December 31, 2019, which were subsequently extended, not providing for a specific expiration date. The FX Decree: (i) reinstated exporters’ obligation to repatriate proceeds from exports of goods and services in the terms and conditions set forth by the BCRA and liquidate such foreign currency-denominated proceeds to Pesos through the FX Market; and (ii) authorized the BCRA to (a) regulate the access to the FX Market for the purchase of foreign currency and outward remittances; and (b) establish regulations to prevent practices and/or transactions aimed to bypass the measures adopted on the FX Decree.

A consolidated text of the currently applicable exchange control regulations can be found in Communication “A” 7953/24 issued by the BCRA on January 26, 2024. Below is a description of the main exchange control measures in effect as of the date of this Annual Report, that apply to the Company and its operations:

Reporting Regime

On December 28, 2017, the BCRA replaced the reporting regimes set forth on Communications “A” 3602 and “A” 4237 with Communication “A” 6401 (and supplemental Communication “A” 6795, and as further amended and supplemented), a unified regime applicable from December 31, 2017 (the “External Assets and Liabilities Reporting Regime”). Under such regime, (i) all Argentine residents (both legal entities or natural persons) with external liabilities at the end of any quarter, or residents who have cancelled any of its external liabilities during such period, must file the report within 45 calendar days from the end of the quarter, and (ii) residents whose foreign assets or debts flow or balance equal to or in excess of the equivalent of US$50 million in Pesos at the end of each calendar year, are required to file within 180 calendar days from December 31, an Annual Report where supplements, amendments or confirmation of information contained in previously quarterly filings can be included.

The report distinguishes five categories of foreign holdings: (i) equity participations and investment funds; (ii) non-negotiable debt instruments; (iii) negotiable debt instruments; (iv) financial derivatives; and (iv) real estate.

Access to the FX Market for repayment of external financial indebtedness and other transactions are conditioned to the debtor’s compliance with the External Assets and Liabilities Reporting Regime.

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

131

Specific provisions for inward remittances

Exports of services

Pursuant to Section 2.2 of Communication “A” 7953, exporters shall repatriate and settle in the FX Market, the proceeds from exports of services within five business days following either the perception of funds in the country or abroad, or their accreditation in foreign accounts.

Subject to certain requirements, the proceeds may be applied to the payment of principal and interest under foreign financial debt or registered domestic debt securities, or to the repatriation of foreign investments.

On June 2, 2022, by virtue of Communication “A” 7518 (amended by Communication “A” 7520 and Communication “A” 7766), the BCRA created a foreign currency availability regime for exportation of services. Thus, the legal entities who export telecommunication services, IT services, information services, among others, may have up to US$12,000 per year in accounts in local financial entities without the requirement of settlement in Pesos. In order to access this benefit, the legal entity must: (i) have an affidavit stating that the established limit is not exceeded, that the deadlines for the sale, realization or acquisition of securities (which are identical to those applied for access to the Foreign Exchange Market) are complied with in order to request the use of this mechanism and that the use of this mechanism must be tax neutral; (ii) be a beneficiary of the Regime for the Promotion of Knowledge Economy Exports (Chapter II of Decree 679/22); and iii) the intervening entity must additionally have an affidavit from the client stating that the collections that cease to be settled correspond to exports of services that are related to activities associated with the knowledge economy.

Sale of non-financial non-produced assets

Pursuant to Section 2.3 of Communication “A” 7953, the proceeds in foreign currency of the sale of non-financial non-produced assets must be repatriated and settled in Pesos in the FX Market within five business days following either the perception of funds in the country or abroad, or their accreditation in foreign accounts.

External financial indebtedness

Servicing of foreign financial debt (disbursed after September 1, 2019) with access to the FX Market for the payment of principal and interest thereunder, is subject to prior compliance with the requirement that the proceeds of such foreign financial debt must be transferred to the Argentine financial system and liquidated through the FX Market.

Duly registered securities that are denominated and payable in foreign currency in Argentina

The proceeds from the issuance of duly registered debt securities by Argentine residents, denominated and payable in foreign currency in Argentina, must be settled for Pesos in the FX Market as a condition for the access to the FX Market for the payment of principal and interest thereunder.

Specific provisions for outflow of funds through the FX Market

Payment of dividends and corporate profits

In accordance with Section 3.4 of Communication “A” 7953, access is granted to the local FX Market to pay dividends to non-resident shareholders, subject to the following conditions:

Maximum amounts: The total amount of transfers executed through the FX Market as of January 17, 2020 for payment of dividends to non-resident shareholders may not exceed 30% of the total value of the new capital contributions made in the local company that had been entered and settled through the FX Market as of the abovementioned date. The total amount paid to non-resident shareholders shall not exceed the corresponding amount denominated in Argentine Pesos that was determined by the shareholders’ meeting.

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

132

Minimum period: Access to the FX Market will only be granted after a period of not less than thirty (30) calendar days has elapsed as of the date of the settlement of the last capital contribution that is considered for determining the aforementioned 30% cap.
Certification of increase of exports of goods: The client must have a “Certification of increase of exports of goods”, for the years 2021 to 2023, for the equivalent to the value of profits and dividends that are paid to the client.
Documentation requirements: Dividends must result from closed and audited balance sheets.
When requesting access to the FX Market for this purpose, evidence of the definitive capitalization of the capital contribution must be provided or, in lack thereof, evidence of the initiation of the process of registration of the capital contribution before the IGJ shall be provided. In this case, evidence of the definitive capitalization shall be provided within 365 calendar days from the date of the initial filing with the Public Registry of Commerce. Also, it must be verified that the operation has been declared, if applicable, in the most recent External Assets and Liabilities Reporting Regime report.

Payment of principal and interest under external financial indebtedness

Foreign financial debt and securities which are registered with a foreign public registry may be serviced with access to the FX Market, if the following conditions are met:

evidence of the settlement of foreign currency in the FX Market in an amount equal to the amount of the relevant debt;
such loan must have been reported to the BCRA in the in the most recent External Assets and Liabilities Reporting Regime report;
access is being carried out no earlier than three business days prior to the scheduled payment date;
in case the lender is a related party, prior authorization from the BCRA for the access to the FX Market for the payment of financial debt, which is required until December 31, 2024, shall not be necessary provided (i) that the transactions are for local financial entities' own operations, (ii) the proceeds have been settled for Pesos in the FX Market as of October 2, 2020, (iii) the indebtedness has an average life of at least two years, (iv) the client has a "Certification of increase of exports of goods” for the years 2021 to 2023 issued in accordance with the provisions of Section 3.18. of Communication “A” 7348 for the equivalent of the principal amount to be paid; (v) it is a financial indebtedness abroad with an average life of not less than two years liquidated between August 27, 2021 and December 12, 2023 and that was used to pay commercial debts for the importation of goods and services as from the issuance of a “Certification of entry of new financial indebtedness abroad” under Section 1. of Communication “A” 7348 and concordant; and (vi) it is a financial indebtedness abroad included in the mechanism of Section 7.11. of Communication “A” 7953 and the date of access is consistent with the conditions required to be included in such mechanism.

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

133

If such remittance is used to make a prepayment more than three (3) business days prior to the scheduled payment date, then:

(1)if the prepayment is made simultaneously with the disbursement of a new foreign financial indebtedness: (a) the prepayment shall be made simultaneously with the transfer to Argentina and settlement for Argentine Pesos of the proceeds from a new financial debt and/or a new prefinancing of foreign exports, (b) the average life of such new debt shall be longer than the average life of the debt that is being prepaid, (c) the accumulated amount of the principal maturities of the new debt shall not exceed at any time the amount that would have accumulated the principal maturities of the debt being prepaid, and (d) in the event that the new indebtedness is a pre-financing of foreign exports, the entity must have an affidavit from the client stating that the prior approval of the BCRA will be required for the application of foreign currency from export collections to the cancellation of the principal prior to the maturities computed for the purposes of compliance with the conditions indicated above;
(2)if the prepayment is made within the process of a securities exchange: (a) the prepayment shall be made as part of an exchange of securities issued by the client, (b) the prepaid amount correspond to the accrued interest on the securities as of the exchange closing date, (c) the average life of such new securities shall be longer than the average life of the securities being exchanged, and (d) the accumulated amount of the principal maturities of the new securities shall not exceed at any time the amount that would have accumulated the principal maturities of the securities being prepaid;
(3)if the prepayment of principal and interest of a debt title registered in the country is made simultaneously with the liquidation of a financial indebtedness abroad: (a) the prepayment will be made simultaneously with the liquidated proceeds of a new foreign financial indebtedness; (b) the average life of the new indebtedness will be longer than the average remaining life of the debt security being precanceled; and (c) the aggregate principal maturities of the new indebtedness will at no time exceed the aggregate principal maturities of the debt security being cancelled; and
(4)if the prepayment of principal and interest debt title registered in the country is made simultaneously with the liquidation of a new debt title: (a) the prepayment will be effected simultaneously with the proceeds from the issuance of a new debt security with public registration in the country, denominated and subscribed in foreign currency and whose services are payable in foreign currency in the country; (b) the average life of the new security will be longer than the average remaining life of the debt security being precanceled; and (c) the cumulative amount of principal maturities of the new debt security at no time may exceed the amount that would have accrued principal maturities of the debt security being cancelled.

Access may also be granted when (i) the purchased funds are deposited in the client’s foreign currency accounts in local financial entities, (ii) access takes place no more than five business days prior to the applicable time period, (iii) amount purchased daily does not exceed 20% of the total amount to be paid on the scheduled payment date, and (iv) the intervening financial entity has verified that the debt being serviced is in compliance with the FX regulations. The remaining funds that are not used for the payment shall be settled in the FX Market within five business days following the payment date.

Specific provisions for securities transactions

Limitations related to the sale or transfer of securities and other assets.

In order to make payments abroad through the FX Market, the company must, in addition to the requirements applicable in each case, present an affidavit stating that on the day on which it requests access to the market and in the previous 90 calendar days, in the case of securities issued under Argentine law and in the previous 180 calendar days in the case of securities issued under foreign law, directly or indirectly or for the account and order of third parties, has not carried out the transactions mentioned below and that it undertakes not to carry out such transactions as from the moment access is requested and during the following 90 calendar days and 180 calendar days, respectively:

(i) sales in the country of securities with settlement in foreign currency;

(ii) exchanges of securities issued by residents for foreign assets;

(iii) transfers of securities to foreign depositories;

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

134

(iv) acquisition in the country of securities issued by non-residents with settlement in Pesos;

(v) acquisition of Argentine certificates of deposit representing foreign shares;

(vi) acquisition of securities representing private debt issued in foreign jurisdictions; and

(vii) delivery of funds in local currency or other local assets (except funds in foreign currency deposited in local financial entities) to any human or legal person, resident or non-resident, related or not, receiving as prior or subsequent consideration, directly or indirectly, by itself or through a related, controlled or controlling entity, foreign assets, crypto-assets or securities deposited abroad.

In such affidavit, the following transactions shall not be taken into account:

(i)

transfers of securities to foreign depositories made or to be made by the customer for the purpose of participating in an exchange of debt securities issued by the national government, local governments or private sector resident issuers;

(ii)

the delivery of local assets for the purpose of cancelling a debt with an export credit agency or a foreign financial institution, to the extent that it occurs upon maturity as a consequence of a guarantee clause provided for in the debt contract; and

(iii)

sales of securities with settlement in foreign currency in the country or abroad when the totality of the funds obtained from such settlements have been or will be used within 10 days following certain operations.

When the client is a legal entity, Communication “A” 7327 (as amended by Communication “A” 7766) establishes the same requirements in relation to its direct controlling and holders (defined in accordance with the BCRA rules indicated therein). Besides identifying in detail the persons or legal entities that exercise a direct control relationship over it, it must indicate the legal entities with which it forms part of the same economic group. And, for this purpose, the companies that share a control relationship of the type defined in the rules of "Large exposures to credit risk" must be considered as members of the same economic group.

Also, Communication “A” 7142 established that securities transactions arranged abroad may not be settled in Pesos in the country, and only those transactions arranged in the country may be settled in Pesos in the country.

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

135

Duly registered securities that are denominated and payable in foreign currency in Argentina between residents

In accordance with Section 3.6 of Communication “A” 7953, access to the FX Market for the payment of foreign currency denominated obligations between Argentine residents executed as of September 1, 2019 is prohibited, except for payments, as from their maturity, of principal and interest of (i) loans in foreign currency granted by local financial entities (including payments of credit cards); (ii) the issuance of debt securities for the refinancing of the debt transactions entered into as of September 1, 2019 that result in an increase in the average life of the debt; (iii) the issuance of debt securities with public registry in Argentina as of November 29, 2019, denominated, subscribed and payable in foreign currency, to the extent the proceeds have been settled through the FX Market; (iv) the issuance of debt securities with public registration in the country, (a) with an average life of not less than two years, denominated in foreign currency and whose services are payable abroad or in foreign currency in the country, made between October 9, 2020 and December 31, 2023, (b) which were delivered to creditors of financial indebtedness abroad and/or debt securities with public registration in the country denominated in foreign currency with due dates between October 15, 2020 and December 31, 2023; which were delivered to creditors of financial indebtedness abroad and/or debt securities with public registry in the country denominated in foreign currency with maturities between October 15, 2020 and December 31, 2023, as part of the refinancing plan duly required in Section 7. of Communication “A” 7106 and related provisions (provisions included in Section 3.17. of the Annex to Communication “A” 7953), based on the following parameters: (1) the amount of principal for which the foreign exchange market was accessed up to December 31, 2023 did not exceed 40% of the amount of principal maturing, except when for an amount equal to or greater than the excess the debtor either registered settlements in the foreign exchange market as of October 9, 2020 for issues of debt securities with public registration abroad or other financial indebtedness abroad or registered settlements in the foreign exchange market as of October 9, 2020 for issues of debt securities with public registration abroad or other financial indebtedness abroad or it had a "Certification of increased exports of goods" for the years 2021 to 2023 issued under Section 3.18., and(2) the remaining principal maturing was, at least, refinanced with a new indebtedness abroad with an average life of two years greater than the average remaining life of the refinanced principal; (v) the issuance of debt securities with public registry in Argentina as of January 7, 2021, denominated and payable in foreign currency in Argentina, to the extent they were issued to refinance preexisting debts with an increase in the average life, when applicable, to the amount of refinanced capital, the interests accrued up to the date of refinancing, and, if the new debt securities do not register principal maturities in the first two years, an amount equivalent to the interest that would accrue in the first two years for the debt that is refinanced prior to maturity and/or for the postponement of the refinanced principal and/or for the interest that would accrue on the amounts thus refinanced; and (vi) the issuance of debt titles with public registration abroad or in Argentina, denominated in foreign currency, and payable in Argentina or abroad, to the extent that the registration of the customs entry of goods for a value equivalent to the financing received is demonstrated.

Additionally, the prohibition does not apply to obligations in foreign currency between residents executed through public deeds or public registries on or before August 30, 2019, and to foreign currency loans granted by local financial entities that were outstanding as of August 30, 2019.

Access to the FX Market before the scheduled payment date shall be subject to prior authorization by the BCRA, except in certain situations and to the extent the relevant conditions are met, including, without limitation:

1)in the case of loans granted by local financial entities, the prepayment is made simultaneously with the settled proceeds of a new foreign financial debt, the average life of the new debts exceeds the remaining average life of the debt being prepaid, and the accumulated amount of the principal maturities of the new debt shall not exceed at any time the amount that would have accumulated the principal maturities of the debt being prepaid;
2)if the prepayment is made within the process of a securities exchange, see item 2 under “Payment of principal and interest under external financial indebtedness” above;
3)if the prepayment is made in the context of the simultaneous settlement of a new external financial indebtedness, see item 3 under “Payment of principal and interest on external financial indebtedness” above; and
4)if the prepayment is made in the context of the simultaneous settlement of a new debt title, see item 3 under "Payment of principal and interest on external financial indebtedness" above.

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

136

Access to the FX Market by local trusts for principal and interest payments

Pursuant to Section 3.7 of Communication “A” 7953, local trusts created to guarantee principal and interest payments by resident debtors may access the FX Market in order to make such payments at their scheduled maturity, to the extent that, pursuant to the current applicable regulations, the debtor would have had access to the FX Market to make such payments directly.

Derivatives transactions

Section 3.12 of Communication “A” 7953 provides that derivative transactions, including payment of premium, constitution of guarantees and settlement of futures, forwards, options and other derivatives, that settle in Argentina, shall be made in Pesos.

Likewise, access to the FX Market may be granted for the payment of premiums, creation of collaterals and settlements in connection with interest rate hedge agreements for foreign debt declared and validated, if applicable, in the External Assets and Liabilities Reporting Regime, as long as such agreements do not cover higher risks than external liabilities of the recorded debtor’s interest rate risk being covered.

An entity authorized to operate in the FX Market must be designated by the debtor to track the operation and an affidavit in which the debtor undertakes to repatriate and settled the funds into Pesos that are in favor of the local client as a result of such operation, or as a result of the release of the funds of the constituted as collateral, must be provided within the following five business days.

Additional information requirements

In addition, access to the FX Market for the purchase of foreign currency in all of the aforementioned circumstances is also subject to the compliance by the client of the following information requirements:

(A) the “Anticipo de operaciones cambiarias” regime, pursuant to which the client must disclose to the intervening financial entity any purchase of foreign currency that equals or exceeds a daily threshold of US$10,000, two business days in advance;

(B) the Foreign Liquid Assets Holdings affidavit (Communication No. 7030, as amended) and/or Argentine certificates of deposits representing foreign shares, stating that (1) all of the foreign currency that the client holds in Argentina is deposited in local bank accounts and that it does not have more than US$100,000 in available foreign liquid assets (excluding funds deposited abroad that cannot be used because they are reserve funds or guarantee funds set up in accordance with the requirements of foreign indebtedness agreements or funds set up to guarantee foreign derivative transactions) and/or Argentine certificates of deposits representing foreign shares; and, at the beginning of the day in which it requests access to the FX Market, subject to certain exceptions, and (2) the client undertakes to settle in Pesos through the FX Market, within five business days of its availability, those foreign proceeds resulting from the collection of loans granted to third parties, the collection of a term deposit or the sale of any type of asset, when the asset has been acquired, the deposit constituted or the loan granted after May 28, 2020. Such amount may be exceeded provided the amount in excess (a) was used on the same date to make payments that would have had access to the local exchange market; (b) was transferred in favor of the client to a correspondent account of a local entity that holds a foreign exchange authorization; (c) consists in funds deposited in foreign bank accounts that result from collections of exports of goods and/or services or advances, pre-financing or post-financing of exports of goods granted by non-residents, or the sale of non-produced non-financial assets; for which the 5-working day period has not elapsed; (d) consists in funds deposited in foreign bank accounts resulting from foreign financial indebtedness and its amount does not exceed the equivalent to be paid for principal and interests in the next 365 calendar days; (e) are funds deposited in foreign bank accounts originated in the issuance of debt securities executed within the previous 120 calendar days and susceptible to be included in the provisions of Sections 7.11.1.5. and 7.11.1.6. of Communication “A” 7953; or (f) are funds deposited in foreign bank accounts originated in the sale of securities with settlement in foreign currency referred to in Section 3.16.3.6.iii) of Communication “A” 7953; and

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

137

(C) the Transactions with Public Securities and other assets affidavit (Communication No. 7001, as amended), where the client must acknowledge that, on the day on which it requests access to the FX Market and in the previous 90 days in the case of securities issued under Argentine law and in the previous 180 days in the case of securities issued under foreign law, directly or indirectly or on behalf of and to the order of third parties: (i) has not arranged sales in the country of securities with settlement in foreign currency; (ii) has not made exchanges of securities issued by residents for foreign assets; (iii) has not made transfers of securities to depository entities abroad; (iv) has not acquired in the country securities issued by non-residents with settlement in Pesos; (v) has not acquired Argentine certificates of deposit representing foreign shares; (vi) has not acquired securities representing private debt issued in foreign jurisdictions; and (vii) has not delivered funds in local currency or other local assets (except funds in foreign currency deposited in local financial institutions) to any individual or legal entity, whether resident or non-resident, related or not, receiving as prior or subsequent consideration, directly or indirectly, by itself or through a related, controlled or controlling entity, foreign assets, crypto-assets or securities deposited abroad. In addition, it must acknowledge that it will refrain from entering into any of such transactions during a 90-day term as from the date thereof, in the case of securities issued under Argentine law, and during a 180-day term in the case of securities issued under foreign law, directly or indirectly or on behalf and order of third parties. Additionally, when the client is an entity, the sworn statement must include (i) the data of the individuals or legal entities that directly control the entity and of other legal entities with which it is part of the same economic group, and (ii) the statement that, at the time of access to the Exchange Market and during the 180 days prior to such request, it has not delivered foreign currency or local liquid assets (except funds deposited in local financial entities), in Argentina, to any person directly controlling it, outside normal transactions of acquisition of goods and services between residents, or to other companies with which it is part of the same economic group.

Repayment of principal and interest of imports of goods and services.

Pursuant to Section 3.3 of Communication “A” 7953, access to the FX Market for the repayment of principal and interest of imports of goods and services shall be granted, provided that the operation has been declared, if applicable, in the last overdue presentation of the External Assets and Liabilities Reporting.

BCRA’s prior approval will be required to access the FX Market for the repayment of debts for imports of goods and services prior to the scheduled maturity of such indebtedness.

The BCRA sets forth different requirements depending on whether it relates to the payment of imports of goods with customs clearance or the payments of import of goods pending customs clearance. As mentioned below, the imports and import payments monitoring system (SEPAIMPO) has been reinstated, setting forth rules governing such monitoring process and exceptions thereof.

In that sense, the local importer must designate a local financial entity to act as a monitoring bank, which will be responsible for verifying compliance with the applicable regulations, including, among others, the liquidation of import financing and the entry of imported goods.

For the complete set of regulations regarding payment of imports of goods and services, see Section 10 of BCRA’s FX regulations.

Exceptions to the liquidation regime

Through Communication “A” 7664, it was stipulated, among other issues, that the beneficiaries registered in the Regime for the Promotion of the Knowledge Economy will be exempted from the obligation to settle the collection of exports of goods and services that have entered through the foreign exchange market within the terms established in each case and correspond to activities of the knowledge economy, to the extent that they have a "Certification of increase of exports associated to the knowledge economy (Decree No. 679/22)".

Finally, legal entities that have a "Certification for direct investment contributions within the framework of the Regime for the Promotion of the Knowledge Economy (Decree No. 679/22)" may, when the conditions set forth in point 8 of the regulation are met, access the foreign exchange market from an exchange and/or arbitrage with funds deposited in its "Special account for the regime for the promotion of the knowledge economy" in order to carry out the operations listed in item 7 of Decree No. 679/22.

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

138

Income and liquidation of advances, prefinancing and post-financing from foreign sources

Advances, pre-financing and post-financing from abroad must be deposited in the foreign exchange market within 5 working days from the date of collection or settlement abroad, with an additional term of 10 calendar days to settle them in the foreign exchange market.

For exports under Decree No. 28/23, the foregoing shall be deemed to have been complied with when the exporter has entered and settled in the foreign exchange market an amount not less than 80% of the equivalent value of the advances, pre-financing and post-financing and for the unsettled portion has entered into purchase and sale transactions with securities, in which securities are acquired with settlement in foreign currency and sold with settlement in local currency in the country.

In addition, by means of Communication “A” 7740 and 7953, the BCRA provided, among other things, that the term of 180 calendar days to enter and settle advances, pre-financing and post-financing from abroad shall also apply when: i) the transfer of foreign currency has entered the correspondent account of the local entity as from April 10, 2023 and until December 31, 2024 and ii) the customer has registered foreign currency settlements in the foreign exchange market for advances, pre-financing and/or post-financing from abroad in the year 2022 for an amount equal to or greater than the equivalent of US$ 100,000,000 and the customer deposits the funds for credit in a "Special account for crediting export financing" of its ownership until the foreign currency settlement is completed or undertakes that the funds will remain credited in the correspondent account of the entity until their entry through the foreign exchange market is completed. The retransfer abroad of the funds that remain as transfers pending settlement shall require the prior approval of the BCRA.

TAXATION

Argentine taxes

The following summary of certain Argentine tax matters is based upon the tax laws of Argentina and regulations thereunder as of the date of this Annual Report and is subject to any subsequent changes in Argentine laws and regulations which may come into effect after such date. This summary does not purport to be a comprehensive description of all of the tax considerations that may be relevant to a holder of such securities. No assurance can be given that the courts or tax authorities responsible for the administration of the laws and regulations described in this Annual Report will agree with this interpretation. Holders should carefully read “Item 3—Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Telecom Argentina’s Shares and ADSs—Changes in Argentine tax laws may adversely affect the tax treatment of our Shares or ADSs” in this Annual Report and consult their tax advisors regarding the tax treatment of the Class B Shares underlying ADSs and ADSs.

Taxation of Dividends

Dividends to be distributed out of earnings accrued in fiscal years starting on or after January 1, 2018, are subject to the tax treatment, based on the enactment of a comprehensive tax reform -Law No. 27,430-, published in the Official Gazette on December 29, 2017, and generally effective since January 1, 2018.

Pursuant to Law No. 27,430, amended by Law No. 27,541, published in the Official Gazette on December 23, 2019 and Law No. 27,630 published in the Official Gazette on June 16, 2021, dividends and other profits paid in cash or in non-cash assets —except for stock dividends—by companies and other entities incorporated in Argentina referred to in the Argentine Income Tax Law (the “Income Tax Law”), Sections 73 (O.T 2019) (a)(1), (2), (3), (6), (7) and (8), and Section 73(b) out of retained earnings accumulated in fiscal years starting on or after January 1, 2018, would be subject to withholding tax at a 7% rate , provided that they are distributed to Argentine resident individuals and foreign shareholders.

No dividend withholding tax applies if dividends are distributed to the aforementioned Argentine corporate entities required to assess the dividend withholding tax.

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

139

Income Tax - Capital gains

The results derived from the transfer of shares and other equity interests, bonds and other securities of Argentine companies are, in some cases, subject to Argentine capital gains tax, regardless of the type of beneficiary who realizes the gains.

a.    Argentine corporate’s capital gains tax

Capital gains obtained by Argentine corporate taxpayers (in general, entities organized or incorporated under Argentine law and local branches of non-Argentine entities) derived from the sale, exchange or other disposition of shares are subject to income tax at the corporate rate on net income.

b.    Individual resident’s capital gains tax

Law No. 27,430 established that as from January 1, 2018, gains realized by Argentine resident individuals (except for sole companies or commission agents) from the sale, transfer or disposition of shares, securities representing shares and certificates of deposit of shares are exempt from capital gains tax in the following cases: (i) when the shares are placed through a public offering authorized by the CNV, (ii) when the shares were traded in stock markets authorized by the CNV, under segments that ensure priority of price-time and interference of offers, or (iii) when the sale, exchange or other disposition of shares is made through an initial public offering and/or exchange of shares authorized by the CNV. For periods prior to 2018, it is currently under discussion the extent of the exemption (established by Law No. 26,893 and its implementing Decree No. 2,334/13) applicable to the sale of shares and other securities through a stock exchange market, so as to determine whether it applies only sales of securities made in stock exchanges duly authorized by the CNV or in any stock exchanges.

Pursuant Income Tax Regulatory Decree (O.T 2019), the conversion process by which individual residents change ADRs by excepted shares, will be considered a levied transaction at its value market price.

c.    Nonresident’s capital gains tax

Law No. 27,430 and the income tax regulatory Decree (O.T 2019), maintain a 15% capital gains tax (calculated on the actual net gain or a presumed net gain equal to 90% of the sale price) on the disposal of shares or securities by nonresidents. However, nonresidents are exempt from the capital gains tax on gains realized from the sale of (a) Argentine shares in the following cases: (i) when the shares are placed through a public offering authorized by the CNV, (ii) when the shares were traded in stock markets authorized by the CNV, under segments that ensure priority of price-time and interference of offers, or (iii) when the sale, exchange or other disposition of shares is made through an initial public offering and/or exchange of shares authorized by the CNV; and (b) depositary shares or depositary receipts issued abroad, when the underlying securities are shares (i) issued by Argentine companies, and (ii) with authorization of public offering. The exemptions will only apply to the extent the foreign beneficiaries reside in, or the funds used for the investment proceed from, jurisdictions considered as cooperating for purposes of the exchange of tax information.

In addition, it is clarified that, from 2018 onward, gains from the sale of ADSs will be treated as from Argentine source.

In case the exemption is not applicable and, to the extent foreign beneficiaries do not reside in, or the funds do not arise from, jurisdictions not considered as cooperative for purposes of fiscal transparency, the gain realized from the disposition of shares would be subject to Argentine income tax at a 15% rate on the net capital gain or at a 13.5% effective rate on the gross price. In case such foreign beneficiaries reside in, or the funds arise from, jurisdictions not considered as cooperative for purposes of fiscal transparency, a 35% tax rate on the net capital gain or at a 31.5% effective rate on the gross price should apply.

Section 24 of Decree No. 862/19 list the “non-cooperating jurisdictions” for Argentine tax purposes as of the date of this Annual Report. Argentine tax authorities are required to report updates to the Ministry of Finance to modify such list. On January 27, 2023, Decree No. 48/2023 was published in the Official Gazette, whereby the PEN amended the aforementioned Section 24. Due to the changes introduced by Decree No. 48/2023, the following jurisdictions are removed from the list of non-cooperative jurisdictions: the Republic of Paraguay, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Mongolia, Montenegro, the Kingdom of Swaziland, the Kingdom of Thailand, the

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

140

Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the Republic of Botswana, the Republic of Cape Verde, the Republic of Kenya, the Republic of Liberia, the Republic of Maldives, the Republic of Namibia, the Islamic Republic of Mauritania and the Sultanate of Oman.

In such scenarios, according to AFIP General Resolution No. 4,227, the income tax should be withheld and paid to the AFIP under the following procedures: (i) in case the securities were sold by a foreign beneficiary, through an Argentine stock exchange market, the custodian entity should withhold and pay the tax if it is involved in the payment process; if it is not involved in the payment process but there is an Argentine buyer involved, the Argentine buyer should withhold the income tax (ii) in case the securities were sold by a foreign beneficiary, but not through an Argentine stock exchange market and there is an Argentine buyer involved, the Argentine buyer should withhold the income tax; and (iii) when both the seller and the buyer are foreign beneficiaries and the sale is not performed through an Argentine stock exchange market, the person liable for the tax shall be the legal representative of the seller of the shares or securities being transferred or directly by the seller, in the event that there was no local legal representative. In this case, the payment shall be made through an international bank via wire transfer to the AFIP.

Holders are encouraged to consult a tax advisor as to the particular Argentine income tax consequences derived from the holding and disposing of ADSs or Class B Shares.

Personal assets tax

Argentine companies, such as us, have to assess and pay the personal assets tax corresponding to their shareholders that are Argentine individuals and non-Argentine resident persons.

Pursuant to Law No. 27,541, as of December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, the tax rate is 0.50%, which is to be assessed on the proportional net worth value (valor patrimonial proporcional), of the shares as per the Argentine entity’s last financial statements. According to Article four of AFIP General Resolution No. 3,363 (and amendments), it is understood that the last financial statements of an Argentine entity that must be considered are those prepared under Argentine GAAP without considering the effect arising from the changes in the purchasing power of the currency. AFIP had ratified this criterion on several occasions. Notwithstanding this, during 2022, we learned that AFIP has modified its opinion and understands that the financial statements that must be used as the calculation basis for the determination and liquidation of the tax are those that were submitted for consideration and approved by the body competent company according to the type of company in question. That is, if the company applies IFRS Accounting Standards, the financial statements prepared with such standards should be used. We understand that the new tax interpretation contradicts the provisions of Article four of AFIP General Resolution No. 3,363 (and amendments) so we did not adopt it since we do not share the tax criterion.

Pursuant to the Personal Assets Tax Law, the Argentine company is entitled to seek reimbursement of such paid tax from the applicable Argentine domiciled individuals and/or foreign domiciled shareholders.

Value added tax

The sale, exchange or other disposition of Telecom Argentina shares and ADSs, and the distribution of dividends in connection therewith are exempted from the value added tax.

Tax on deposits to and withdrawals from bank accounts

Law No. 25,413, as amended, provided for the creation of a tax on deposits to and withdrawals from bank accounts to be levied on: (i) credits and debits in accounts held in financial institutions located in Argentina; (ii) the credits and debits referred to in (i) in which no bank accounts with Argentine financial institutions are used, whatever their denomination, the mechanisms used to carry out such transactions (including cash) and/or legal instrument involved; and (iii) other transactions or transfers and deliveries of funds regardless of the individual or entity that performs them and the mechanism used.

Law 27,541 provided that the debits generated by cash withdrawals in any form shall be deemed taxable transactions, except for those made from accounts whose holders are physical or legal persons that qualify as micro and small-sized enterprises and provide evidence thereof under the terms of Article 2 of Law No. 24,467.

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

141

Pursuant to Decree No. 380/01 (as amended), the following transactions shall be subject to Law No. 25,413: (i) certain transactions carried out by financial institutions in which open accounts are not used; and (ii) any movement or delivery of funds, even in cash, that any person, including Argentine financial institutions, makes in its own name or on behalf of a third party, whatever the means used for its execution. Resolution No. 2,111/06 (AFIP) provides that “movements or deliveries of funds” are those made through organized payment systems replacing the use of bank accounts.

Pursuant to Decree No. 409/18 (published in the Official Gazette on May 7, 2018), bank account holders subject to the general 0.6% tax rate levied on each bank debit and credit may consider 33% of the tax paid as a tax credit. Bank account holders subject to the 1.2% tax rate may consider 33% of the tax paid as a tax credit. In both cases, those amounts may be creditable against income tax or the special contribution on the capital of cooperatives. In the case of small and medium-sized enterprises, the percentage that may be creditable against income tax may be higher. The exceeding amount may not be offset against other taxes or transferred in favor of third parties, but it may be carried forward, until fully offset, to future fiscal periods.

Article 10, subsection (s) of Decree No. 380, as amended, provides that movements recorded in special current accounts (Communication “A” 3250 of the Central Bank) shall not be subject to this tax if the holders of such accounts are foreign legal entities and the accounts are exclusively used in connection with financial investments in Argentina.

Article 10, subsection (a) of Decree No. 380, as amended, also provides for another exemption for certain transactions, including debit and credit transactions relating to accounts used exclusively for the transactions inherent to their specific activity and the drafts and transfers of which they are originators for the same purpose in the markets authorized by the CNV and their respective agents, stock exchanges that do not have organized stock markets, securities clearing houses, and settlement and clearing entities authorized by the CNV.

Turnover tax

Gross turnover tax could be applicable to Argentine residents on the transfer of shares and on the collection of dividends by our shareholders to the extent such activity is conducted on a regular basis within an Argentine province or within the City of Buenos Aires. However, under the Tax Code of the City of Buenos Aires, any transactions with shares, as well as the perception of dividends are exempt from gross turnover tax. Holders of the Class A, B, C and D Shares or ADSs are encouraged to consult a tax advisor as to the particular Argentine gross turnover tax consequences derived from holding and disposing of the Class A, B, C and D Shares or ADSs or ADSs.

Stamp taxes

Stamp tax is a provincial tax that is levied based on the formal execution of public or private instruments. Documents subject to stamp tax include, among others, all types of contracts, notarial deeds and promissory notes. Each Argentine province and the City of Buenos Aires have its own stamp tax legislation. Stamp tax rates vary according to the jurisdiction and type of agreement involved.

Other Taxes

There are no Argentine federal inheritances or succession taxes applicable to the ownership, transfer or disposition of Class A, B, C and D Shares.

Tax treaties

Argentina has signed tax treaties for the avoidance of double taxation with several countries, although there is currently no tax treaty or convention in effect between Argentina and the United States. On December 23, 2016, Argentina and the United States signed an agreement for the upon request exchange of information relating to taxes, which entered into force on November 13, 2017. The first fiscal period with respect to which information could be exchanged was 2018.

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

142

On December 5, 2022, Argentina and the United States signed an agreement for the automatic exchange of financial information (the “2022 Tax Agreement”). The object of the 2022 Tax Agreement is the reciprocal exchange, for tax purposes, of information regarding accounts opened in financial institutions by residents of either country.

The 2022 Tax Agreement specifies that the Argentine reportable accounts of a reporting U.S. financial institution are financial accounts opened in a financial institution of the United States if: (i) in the case of a depository account, the account is held by an individual resident in Argentina and more than US$10 of interest is paid to such account in any given calendar year; or (ii) in the case of a financial account other than a depository account, the account holder is a resident of Argentina, including an entity that certifies it is a resident of Argentina for tax purposes, with respect to which U.S. source income that is subject to reporting under chapter three of subtitle A or chapter 61 of subtitle F of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code is paid or credited.

In particular, the U.S. Government will obtain and exchange with the Federal Administration of Public Revenue (“AFIP”) the following information with respect to Argentine reportable accounts:

(i) the name, address, and CUIT/CUIL of any Argentine resident who holds the account;

(ii) the account number, or its functional equivalent, in the absence of an account number;

(iii) the name and identifying number of the reporting U.S. financial institution;

(iv) the gross amount of interest paid on a Depository Account (as defined in the 2022 Tax Agreement);

(v) the gross amount of U.S. source dividends paid or credited to the account; and

(vi) the gross amount of other U.S. source income paid or credited to the account, to the extent subject to reporting under chapter three of subtitle A or chapter 61 of subtitle F of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code.

On May 30, 2023, it was reported that the federal administrator of Public Revenue, Carlos Castagneto and his counterpart from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Holly Paz, signed a competent authority agreement that aims to establish the rules and procedures for the exchange automatic information defined in the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (“FATCA”) agreement.

On March 13, 2024, the official text in Spanish of the Agreement between the Government of the Argentine Republic and the Government of the United States of America to Improve International Tax Compliance and to Implement FATCA was published in the Official Gazette.

The Agreement, signed by both countries on December 5, 2022, in the English language, became effective on January 1, 2023, pending the drafting of the official text in Spanish, on which the parties recently agreed and was published on the date indicated in the previous paragraph.

United States federal income taxes

The following discussion is a summary of certain U.S. federal income tax consequences for a U.S. holder (as defined below) of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of our ADSs or Class B Shares underlying ADSs, but it does not purport to be a comprehensive description of all of the tax considerations that may be relevant to a holder of such securities, including alternative minimum tax and Medicare contribution tax on net investment income. This summary applies only to U.S. holders that hold ADSs or Class B Shares underlying ADSs as capital assets for U.S. federal income tax purposes and does not address investors that are members of a class of holders subject to special rules, such as:

financial institutions;
dealers in securities or currencies;
dealers or traders in securities who use a mark-to-market method of tax accounting;
life insurance companies;

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

143

persons that hold ADSs or Class B Shares underlying ADSs that are a hedge or that are hedged against interest rate or currency risks;
persons that hold ADSs or Class B Shares underlying ADSs as part of a hedging transaction, straddle, wash sale, conversion transaction or integrated transaction or persons entering into a constructive sale with respect to the ADSs or Class B Shares underlying ADSs;
persons whose functional currency for U.S. federal income tax purposes is not the U.S. dollar;
tax-exempt entities;
persons that own or are deemed to own 10% or more of our stock, measured by voting power or value;
persons who acquired ADSs or Class B Shares underlying ADSs pursuant to the exercise of an employee stock option or otherwise as compensation; or
persons holding ADSs or Class B Shares underlying ADSs in connection with a trade or business conducted outside of the United States.

If an entity that is classified as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes holds ADSs or Class B Shares underlying ADSs, the U.S. federal income tax treatment of a partner will generally depend on the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. Partnerships holding ADSs or Class B Shares underlying ADSs and partners in such partnerships should consult their tax advisors as to the particular U.S. federal income tax consequences of holding and disposing of the ADSs or Class B Shares underlying ADSs.

This summary is based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), its legislative history, existing and proposed regulations promulgated thereunder, published rulings and court decisions, all as currently in effect. These authorities are subject to change, possibly on a retroactive basis. In addition, this summary assumes the deposit agreement, and all other related agreements, will be performed in accordance with their terms. As mentioned above, there is currently no income tax treaty or convention in effect between Argentina and the United States.

U.S. holders should consult their tax advisors regarding the U.S., Argentine or other tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of ADSs or Class B Shares underlying ADSs in their particular circumstances, including the effect of any state or local tax laws.

As used herein, the term “U.S. holder” means a holder that, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, is a beneficial owner of ADSs or Class B Shares underlying ADSs and is:

a citizen or individual resident of the United States;
a U.S. domestic corporation; or
otherwise subject to U.S. federal income tax on a net income basis with respect to income from the ADSs or Class B Shares.

In general, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, holders of ADSs will be treated as the owners of the underlying Class B Shares represented by those ADSs. Accordingly, no gain or loss will be recognized if such holder exchanges ADSs for the underlying Class B Shares represented by those ADSs.

Except as provided below, this discussion assumes that we are not, and will not become, a Passive Foreign Investment Company (PFIC).

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

144

Distributions

To the extent paid out of our current or accumulated earnings and profits (as determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax principles), the gross amount of distributions of cash or property made with respect to ADSs or Class B Shares underlying ADSs will generally be included in the income of a U.S. holder as ordinary dividend income. Because we do not maintain calculations of our earnings and profits under U.S. federal income tax principles, U.S. holders should expect that a distribution will generally be treated as a dividend. Dividends will not be eligible for the “dividends-received deduction” generally allowed to U.S. corporations under the Code. Dividends will be included in a U.S. holder’s income on the date of the U.S. holder’s (or in the case of ADSs, the depositary’s) receipt of the dividend.

In the event of a distribution of bonds or other property, U.S. holders of ADSs or Class B Shares should consult their tax advisors regarding the tax consequences to them of receipt of such bonds or other property (or, in the case of a holder of ADSs, the receipt of the proceeds of the sale or other disposition by the depositary of such bonds or other property).

In the event of a distribution of Pesos, the amount of the distribution will equal the U.S. dollar value of the Pesos received (including amounts withheld in respect of Argentine taxes), calculated by reference to the exchange rate in effect on the date such distribution is received (which, for holders of ADSs, will be the date such distribution is received by the depositary), whether or not the depositary or U.S. holder in fact converts any Pesos received into U.S. dollars. If the distribution is converted into U.S. dollars on the date of receipt, U.S. holders should not be required to recognize foreign currency gain or loss in respect of the dividend income. Any gains or losses resulting from the conversion of Pesos into U.S. dollars after the date on which the distribution is received will be treated as ordinary income or loss of the U.S. holder and will be U.S.-source income or loss for foreign tax credit purposes.

Subject to certain exceptions for short-term (60 days or less) and hedged positions, the U.S. dollar amount of dividends paid to certain individuals or other non-corporate U.S. holders will be taxable at the preferential rates if the dividends are “qualified dividends”. Dividends paid on the ADSs are generally treated as “qualified dividends” if (1) the ADSs are readily tradable on a stablished securities market in the United States (such as the NYSE, where our ADSs are currently traded) and (2) we were not, in the year prior to the year in which the dividend was paid, and are not in the year in which the dividend is paid, a PFIC. Based on our consolidated financial statements and relevant market data, we believe that we were not a PFIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes with respect to our 2022 and 2023 taxable years. In addition, based on our current expectations regarding the value and nature of our assets, the sources and nature of our income, and relevant market data, we do not anticipate becoming a PFIC for our 2024 taxable year or the foreseeable future, although there can be no assurance in this regard. Based on existing guidance, it is not entirely clear whether dividends received with respect to the Class B Shares underlying ADSs will be treated as qualified dividends, because the Class B Shares underlying ADSs are not themselves listed on a U.S. exchange. U.S. holders should consult their tax advisors regarding the availability of the preferential dividend tax rates in light of their particular circumstances.

Distributions of additional shares in respect of ADSs or Class B Shares underlying ADSs that are made as part of a pro rata distribution to all of our shareholders generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax.

Sale or other disposition

Gain or loss realized by a U.S. holder on the sale or other disposition of ADSs or Class B Shares underlying ADSs will be subject to U.S. federal income tax as U.S.-source capital gain or loss, and will be long-term capital gain or loss if the U.S. holder has held the ADSs or Class B Shares underlying ADSs for more than one year. The amount of the gain or loss will be equal to the difference between the U.S. holder’s tax basis in those ADSs or Class B Shares and the amount realized on the disposition, in each case as determined in U.S. dollars. Long-term capital gains recognized by non-corporate taxpayers are subject to reduced tax rates. The deductibility of capital losses is subject to limitations. If an Argentine tax is withheld, or otherwise paid, on the sale or disposition of ADSs or Class B Shares underlying ADSs, a U.S. holder’s amount realized will include the gross amount of the proceeds of the sale or disposition before deduction of the Argentine tax. See “—Argentine Taxes—Income Tax-Capital gains” for a description of when a disposition may be subject to taxation by Argentina.

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

145

Foreign tax credit considerations

Subject to generally applicable limitations and conditions, Argentine dividend withholding tax paid at the appropriate rate applicable to the U.S. holder may be eligible for a credit against such U.S. holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability. These generally applicable limitations and conditions include new requirements adopted by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) in regulations promulgated in December 2021, and any Argentine tax will need to satisfy these requirements in order to be eligible to be a creditable tax for a U.S. holder. In the case of a U.S. holder that consistently elects to apply a modified version of these rules under recently issued temporary guidance and complies with specific requirements set forth in such guidance, the Argentine tax on dividends generally will be treated as meeting the new requirements and therefore as a creditable tax. In the case of all other U.S. holders, the application of these requirements to the Argentine tax on dividends is uncertain, and we have not determined whether these requirements have been met. If the Argentine dividend tax is not a creditable tax or the U.S. Holder does not elect to claim a foreign tax credit for any foreign income taxes paid or accrued in the same taxable year, the U.S. holder may be able to deduct the Argentine tax in computing such U.S. holder’s taxable income for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Dividend distributions with respect to ADSs or Class B Shares will constitute income from sources without the United States and, for U.S. holders that elect to claim foreign tax credits, generally will constitute “passive category income” for foreign tax credit purposes.

As discussed above in “—Argentine Taxes—Income Tax - Capital Gains,” capital gains realized by a U.S. holder on the sale or other disposition of ADSs or Class B Shares underlying ADSs are generally exempt from tax under current Argentine law. If Argentine tax is imposed in the future on the sale or other disposition of the ADSs or Class B Shares underlying the ADSs, a U.S. holder generally will not be entitled to credit any such Argentine tax against such U.S. holder’s federal income tax liability, except in the case of a U.S. holder that consistently elects to apply a modified version of the U.S. foreign tax credit rules that is permitted under recently issued temporary guidance and complies with the specific requirements set forth in such guidance. Additionally, capital gain or loss recognized by a U.S. holder on the sale or other disposition of the ADSs or Class B Shares underlying the ADSs generally will be U.S. source gain or loss for U.S. foreign tax credit purposes. Consequently, even if the Argentine tax qualifies as a creditable tax, a U.S. holder may not be able to credit the tax against its U.S. federal income tax liability unless such credit can be applied (subject to generally applicable conditions and limitations) against tax due on other income treated as derived from foreign sources. If the Argentine tax is not a creditable tax, the tax would reduce the amount realized on the sale or other disposition of the ADSs or Class B Shares even if the U.S. holder has elected to claim a foreign tax credit for other taxes in the same year.

In addition, amounts paid on account of the personal assets tax (as described in “—Argentine Taxes—Personal assets tax”) generally will not be treated as an income tax for U.S. federal income tax purposes and will consequently not be eligible for credit against a U.S. holder’s federal income tax liability.

The availability and calculation of foreign tax credits and deductions for foreign taxes depend on a U.S. holder’s particular circumstances and involve the application of complex rules to those circumstances. The temporary guidance discussed above also indicates that the Treasury and the IRS are considering proposing amendments to the December 2021 regulations and that the temporary guidance can be relied upon until additional guidance is issued that withdraws the temporary guidance. U.S. holders are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the application of these rules to their particular situations.

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

146

Foreign financial asset reporting

Certain U.S. holders that own “specified foreign financial assets” with an aggregate value in excess of US$50,000 on the last day of the taxable year or US$75,000 at any time during the taxable year are generally required to file an information statement along with their tax returns, currently on Form 8938, with respect to such assets. “Specified foreign financial assets” include any financial accounts held at a non-U.S. financial institution, as well as securities issued by a non-U.S. issuer that are not held in accounts maintained by financial institutions. Higher reporting thresholds apply to certain individuals living abroad and to certain married individuals. Regulations extend this reporting requirement to certain entities that are treated as formed or availed of to hold direct or indirect interests in specified foreign financial assets based on certain objective criteria. U.S. holders that fail to report the required information could be subject to substantial penalties. In addition, the statute of limitations for assessment of tax would be suspended, in whole or in part. Prospective investors are encouraged to consult with their own tax advisors regarding the possible application of these rules, including the application of the rules to their particular circumstances.

Information reporting and backup withholding

Payments of dividends and sales proceeds that are made within the United States or through certain U.S.-related financial intermediaries generally are subject to information reporting, and may be subject to backup withholding, unless the U.S. holder (1) provides a correct taxpayer identification number and certifies that it is not subject to backup withholding or (2) otherwise establishes an exemption from backup withholding. The amount of any backup withholding from a payment to a U.S. holder will be allowed as a credit against such holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability and may entitle it to a refund, provided that the required information is timely furnished to the IRS.

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

147

DOCUMENTS ON DISPLAY

You may request a copy of these filings by writing or telephoning the offices of Telecom Argentina at General Hornos 690, (C1272AAB) Buenos Aires, Argentina. Telecom Argentina’s telephone number is 54-11-4968-4000. Our internet address is https://institucional.telecom.com.ar.

Telecom Argentina maintains a website at https://institucional.telecom.com.ar. The contents of the website are not part of this Annual Report.

PART I - ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

148

ITEM 11.    QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Summarized below are the financial instruments we held as of December 31, 2023, that are sensitive to changes in foreign exchange rates, market prices and interest rate, if any. As a matter of policy, we may enter into forward exchange contracts, foreign currency swaps or other derivatives to manage the exposure attributed to foreign exchange rate and interest rate fluctuations associated with the principal amount of our liabilities in foreign currencies. We use these instruments to reduce risk by creating offsetting market exposures. The instruments we hold are not held for financial trading purposes. No foreign exchange forward or other derivatives for speculative purposes were outstanding during the reporting periods covered by this Annual Report.

We do not have any other material market risk exposure.

a)       Foreign Exchange Rate Risk

Foreign exchange exposure arises from our funding operations and, to a lesser extent, our capital expenditures and expenses denominated in foreign currencies. The Peso/U.S. dollar exchange rate is determined by a free market with certain controls. See “Item 10—Additional Information—Foreign Investment and Exchange Controls in Argentina”.

Our results of operations are sensitive to changes in the Peso/dollar exchange rates because our primary assets are in Argentina and most of our revenues are denominated in Pesos (our functional currency) while some part of our liabilities are denominated in foreign currencies.

Additionally, the Company has cash and cash equivalents, and investments denominated in U.S. dollars and other currencies that are also sensitive to changes in Peso/U.S. dollar exchange rates and contribute to reduce the exposure to commercial and financial obligations in foreign currency.

The continuous devaluation of the Argentine peso over the last few years, being 356.3% in 2023 and in particular 124.2% in the December 2023, has had and still has a negative impact on the payment of debts denominated in foreign currency and any further devaluation may have a negative effect on our financial situation and the results of our operations.

Actions taken by the Argentine government could cause future exchange rates to vary significantly from current or historical exchange rates. Fluctuations in exchange rates may adversely affect the value, translated or converted into U.S. dollars, of our net assets, earnings and any declared dividends. We cannot give any assurance that any future movements in the exchange rate of the Peso against the U.S. dollar and other foreign currencies will not adversely affect our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows. However, we believe that a significant depreciation in the Peso against major foreign currencies may have a material adverse impact on our capital expenditure program and in our operating expenses denominated in foreign currencies.  

b)       Interest Rate Risk

Within its structure of borrowings, Telecom and its subsidiaries have bank overdrafts denominated in Argentine Pesos accruing interest at rates that are reset at maturity, notes and other financial entities’ loans denominated in Argentine Pesos, U.S. dollar, RMB and Guaraníes that bear interest at fixed and variable rates.

c)       Price Risk

The Company’s investments in financial assets at fair value through profit or loss are subject to the risk of changes in market prices arising from fluctuations in the future value of these assets. The Company conducts an ongoing monitoring of the evolution of these assets’ prices.

The risk management policies of Telecom to reduce the effect of changes in interest rates, consists of using the different DFI that amounts to $149,008 million as of December 31, 2023, that convert variable rates into fixed rates.

See Note 26 to our Consolidated Financial Statements for a description of financial risk management.

PART I – ITEM 11 – QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

149

ITEM 12.    DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES

American Depositary Shares

The ADSs are issued by the Depositary under the Deposit Agreement dated as of May 7, 2021, among Telecom Argentina S.A., JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as depositary, and the registered holders from time to time of the ADSs issued thereunder. The address of the Depositary’s principal executive office is 383 Madison Avenue, Floor 11, New York, New York 10179. Each ADS represents rights to five Class B Shares.

Depositary Fees and Charges

The Depositary collects its fees for delivery directly from investors depositing shares or surrendering ADSs for the purpose of withdrawal. The Depositary also collects taxes and governmental charges from the holders of ADSs. The Depositary collects these fees and charges by deducting those fees from the amounts distributed or by selling a portion of distributable property to pay the fees (after attempting by reasonable means to notify the holder prior to such sale).

Persons depositing or withdrawing shares must pay: (1) US$5.00 for each 100 ADSs or portion thereof for issuances of ADSs, including issuances resulting from a distribution, sale or exercise of shares or rights or other property. Investors depositing shares or holders withdrawing deposited securities are charged fees and expenses in connection with stock transfers, taxes and other governmental charges, cable, telex and facsimile transmission and delivery charges imposed at such person’s request, transfer or registration fees for the registration of transfer of ADSs on any applicable register in connection with the deposit or withdrawal of ADSs and the Depositary’s expenses in connection with the conversion of foreign currency (2) a fee of US$0.05 or less per ADS held for any cash distribution made, or for any elective cash/stock dividend offered, pursuant to the Deposit Agreement, or a fee for the distribution or sale of securities, such fee being in an amount equal to the fee for the execution and delivery of ADSs which would have been charged as a result of the deposit of such securities, but which securities or the net cash proceeds from the sale thereof are instead distributed by the Depositary to holders (3) an aggregate fee of US$0.05 or less per ADS per calendar year (or portion thereof) for services performed by the Depositary in administering the ADRs (which fee may be charged on a periodic basis during each calendar year and shall be assessed against holders as of the record date or record dates set by the Depositary during each calendar year and shall be payable at the sole discretion of the Depositary by billing such holders or by deducting such charge from one or more cash dividends or other cash distributions) (4) a fee for the reimbursement of such fees, charges and expenses as are incurred by the Depositary and/or any of its agents in connection with the servicing of the Shares or other deposited securities, the holding of foreign currency, the sale of securities (including, without limitation, Deposited Securities), the delivery of Deposited Securities or otherwise in connection with the Depositary’s or its custodian’s compliance with applicable law, rule or regulation (which fees and charges shall be assessed on a proportionate basis against holders as of the record date or dates set by the Depositary and shall be payable at the sole discretion of the Depositary by billing such holders or by deducting such charge from one or more cash dividends or other cash distributions).

The Depositary reimburses Telecom Argentina for certain expenses we incur in connection with the American depositary receipt program (the “ADR program”), subject to the agreement between us and the Depositary from time to time. These reimbursable expenses currently certain expenses incurred by the Company that are related to the establishment and maintenance of the ADR program upon such terms and conditions as the Company and the Depositary may agree from time to time. The Depositary may make available to the Company a set amount or a portion of the Depositary fees charged in respect of the ADR program or otherwise upon such terms and conditions as the Company and the Depositary may agree from time to time. The Depositary may also agree to reduce or waive certain fees described above, that would normally be charged on ADSs issued to or at the direction of, or otherwise held by, the Company and/or certain shareholders of the Company. For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Depositary reimbursed Telecom Argentina approximately US$ 176,513 in connection with the ADR program.

PART I – ITEM 12 – DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

150

PART II

ITEM 13.   DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES

As of the date of this Annual Report, none of Telecom Argentina and its subsidiaries are in default on any outstanding indebtedness.

ITEM 14.    MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS

None.

ITEM 15.    CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures

Telecom’s Management, with the participation of our chief executive and financial officers, evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s “disclosure controls and procedures” (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) as of December 31, 2023 (the “Evaluation Date”). Based upon that evaluation, our chief executive and financial officers have concluded that as of the Evaluation Date, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Telecom’s Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for Telecom as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f). Our internal control over financial reporting was designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards as issued by the IASB. Internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:

Pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of Telecom;
provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards and that receipts and expenditures of Telecom are being made only in accordance with authorizations of Management and directors of Telecom; and
provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of Telecom’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Telecom’s Management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of Telecom’s internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal Control—Integrated Framework 2013 issued by the COSO. Based on this evaluation, Telecom’s Management concluded that Telecom’s internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2023. The effectiveness of Telecom’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023 has been audited by PriceWaterhouse & Co. S.R.L., an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report which is included herein.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There were no other changes in our internal controls over financial reporting that occurred during the year ended December 31, 2023 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

PART II

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

151

ITEM 16A.    AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT

On April 27, 2023, the Board of Directors of Telecom Argentina appointed the members of the Audit Committee acting until this year’s Annual Shareholders’ Meeting and determined that Carlos Alejandro Harrison qualifies as Audit Committee Financial Expert pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC. In conducting this evaluation, the Board of Directors took into account Mr. Harrison’s professional background and educational training. See “Item 6—Directors, Senior Management and Employees—The Board of Directors”.

ITEM 16B.    CODE OF ETHICS

This Annual Report provides the ethical principles to which Telecom Argentina and all members of the Board of Directors, the Supervisory Committee, the CEO, Managers and in general all those who work in the Company must abide.

Adjustments made to regulations in recent years and in matters of corporate governance, organization and implementation of preventive measures aimed at reducing the risk of conflict of interest and corrupt practices, and that are applicable to Telecom Argentina as a company subject to regime of public offering both in Argentina and the United States, have been taken into account for the formulation and approval of the Code of Ethics and Conduct.

No waivers, express or implicit, have been granted to any senior officer or member of the Board of Directors of Telecom Argentina with respect to any provision of the Code of Ethics and Conduct.

The Code of Ethics and Conduct is available on our website at https://inversores.telecom.com.ar/en/corporate-governance.html and the latest update was the change of the Company address to General Hornos 690, City of Buenos Aires, filed with the SEC on Form 6-K on August 11, 2021.

ITEM 16C.    PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

The following table provides information on the aggregate fees for services rendered by our principal accountants (in millions of Pesos) for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022. Figures are not restated for inflation.

Services Rendered

    

2023

    

2022

Audit fees (1)

 

677.1

 

288.3

Audit related fees (2)

 

52.7

 

7.3

Tax fees (3)

 

59.1

 

39.3

All other fees (4)

 

3.2

 

1.2

Total

 

792.1

 

336.1

(1)Includes fees related to the integrated audit of the Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, limited reviews of interim financial statements presented during 2023 and 2022, SEC filing reviews and other attestation services.
(2)Includes fees billed for professional services rendered by the principal accountant and not included under the prior category, mainly in connection with assurance services over non-financial information.
(3)Includes fees for permitted tax compliance and tax advisory services.
(4)Includes fees billed for products and services provided by the principal accountant, other than Audit Fees, Audit-Related Fees and Tax Fees. In 2023 and 2022, all other fees include primarily fees paid for subscription to business publications and other non-audit related permitted services.

Audit Committee Pre-approval Policies and Procedures

The engagement of any service provided by external auditors to Telecom Argentina and its subsidiaries are pre-approved by the Audit Committee.

PART II

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

152

The Pre-Approval Procedures provide for services that require:

specific pre-approval—to be approved on a case-by-case basis; and
general pre-approval—any category or general kind of service that come within the guidelines established to safeguard auditor independence and come within the maximum amounts set by the Audit Committee.

The Pre-Approval Procedures also provide for the following categorization of services:

“Prohibited services” are those services that external auditors are not allowed to provide based on prohibitions contained in the statutory rules of Argentina and the United States (i.e., bookkeeping; financial information system design and implementation; appraisal or valuation services, fairness opinions or contribution-in-kind reports; actuarial services; internal audit outsourcing services; management functions; broker/dealer, investment adviser, or investment banking services; or expert services unrelated to the audit).

“Permitted Services” include (i) audit services; (ii) audit-related services; (iii) tax services; and (iv) other services such as permitted internal control advice. Moreover, the services included in each category were also detailed, and, where appropriate, any limits imposed on the provision thereof to ensure external auditors’ independence.

The Pre-Approval Procedures also require pre-approval for the following services:

Annual audit and quarterly reviews of Telecom Argentina’s financial statements: the Audit Committee is required to approve the terms for the engagement and remuneration of such services.
Other “Audit Services”: the Audit Committee is required to define the services that will be subject to general pre-approval on an annual basis, setting the annual service fee amount, or the annual amount allocated to each individual service category, or to each service, within which fee caps the provision shall receive general pre-approval.
“Audit-related Services” and “Tax Services”: the Audit Committee is required to define the categories or types of services that will receive general pre-approval, provided that they fall within the annual fee cap set for that service and establish the guidelines for prior engagement of these services.
Other Permitted Services: are not subject to general pre-approval, and any other services require specific pre-approval by the Audit Committee for each service.
Delegation: the Audit Committee may solely delegate the specific pre-approval of services with any of its members that qualify as an independent director. An independent director must immediately report to the Audit Committee after engaging any service by delegation. Under no circumstances may the authority to either approve or pre-approve services be delegated to the Management.
Disclosure of overall billed fees: external auditors shall include in their audit reports the information about the relationship between the overall fees paid in respect of Audit Services and in respect of services other than Audit Services. In addition, the Audit Committee shall, on a yearly basis, prepare a report to the Board of Directors, which will be included in this Annual Report, providing a detailed account of all fees invoiced by external auditors to Telecom Argentina and to its subsidiaries, grouped into four categories, namely: audit fees, audit related fees, tax consultation fees and all other fees.
Additional requirements: the Audit Committee is required to adopt additional measures to fulfill its supervisory obligations related to external auditors’ duties, in order to ensure the independence from the Company, such as the review of a formal written statement by the external auditors outlining all relations existing between them and Telecom Argentina, in accordance with Rule No. 1 of the Independence Standards Board, and discussions with the external auditors and the methods and procedures that have been designed to ensure their independence.
Amendments: the Audit Committee has authority to amend the Pre-Approval Procedures, rendering an account of any such amendment to the Board of Directors during the first meeting of the Board of Directors held after making the amendments.

PART II

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

153

If Telecom Argentina’s external auditors are to provide any service, the service must either be granted as general pre-approval or specific pre-approval under the Pre-Approval Procedures. The Pre-Approval Procedures require the Audit Committee to consider whether the services to be provided are consistent with the legal and professional rules in effect in Argentina and the United States relating to external auditors’ independence.

ITEM 16D.    EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES

Not applicable.

ITEM 16E.    PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE COMPANY AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS

Not applicable.

ITEM 16F.    CHANGE IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT

Not applicable.

ITEM 16G.    CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Telecom Argentina’s corporate governance practices differ from corporate governance practices of U.S. companies. Telecom Argentina maintains a detailed description of the significant differences in corporate governance practices on its website at https://institucional.telecom.com.ar/inversores/gobiernocorporativo.html, last updated February 2020.

The following is a summary of the material aspects in which Telecom Argentina’s corporate governance policies differ from those followed by U.S. companies under NYSE listing standards.

Composition of the Board of Directors: The NYSE requires each Board of Directors to be composed of a majority of independent directors. Although this is not required under Argentine law, as of the date of this Annual Report, the ten member Board of Directors of Telecom Argentina has three regular directors and two alternate directors who qualify as “independent” according to SEC Rules.
Annual Self-Evaluation of the Board of Directors: The NYSE requires the Boards of Directors of listed companies to conduct a self-evaluation at least annually, and report thereon, informing whether it and its committees are functioning effectively. Under Argentine law, the Board of Directors’ performance is evaluated at the Annual Ordinary Shareholders Meeting.
Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee: NYSE listed companies are required to have a nominating/corporate governance committee. Neither Argentine law nor Telecom Argentina’s Bylaws require the creation of a nominating/corporate governance committee. In Argentina, it is unusual (though possible) for the Board of Directors to nominate new directors and the Board of Directors of Telecom Argentina refrains from making such proposals. Under Argentine law, the right to nominate and appoint directors is granted to shareholders. On certain occasions, the GCL delegates the right to designate directors to the Supervisory Committee.
Compensation committee: NYSE listed companies are required to have a compensation committee composed entirely of independent directors. Neither Argentine law nor Telecom Argentina’s Bylaws require the creation of a Compensation committee. Telecom Argentina’s executive compensation matters are undertaken by Executive Committee and the Board of Directors. The compensation of the members of Telecom Argentina’s Board of Directors is determined by the shareholders at the Annual Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting.
Audit Committee hiring policies: The NYSE requires listed companies to have an Audit Committee which sets clear hiring policies for employees or former employees of the independent auditors. There is no such provision regarding the hiring of external auditors’ employees contained in Argentine law or Telecom Argentina’s bylaws.

PART II

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

154

According to the provisions of CNV Resolution No. 797/19, Telecom Argentina prepares and submits to the CNV, on an annual basis, a report which indicates and details the CNV’s recommended corporate governance practices as set forth in the CNV public offer regime, explains the practices followed by Telecom Argentina, and the reasons for any variation from practices recommended by the CNV. Telecom Argentina’s 2023 Corporate Governance Report was submitted to the CNV as part of the Statutory Annual Report dated March 11, 2024. Telecom Argentina’s Corporate Governance Reports submitted to the CNV can be accessed through the CNV’s website, www.cnv.gob.ar and Telecom Argentina’s website, https://institucional.telecom.com.ar.

ITEM 16H.    MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE

Not applicable.

ITEM 16I.    DISCLOSURE REGARDING FOREIGN JURISDICTIONS THAT PREVENT INSPECTIONS

Not applicable.

ITEM 16J. INSIDER TRADING POLICIES

Not applicable.

ITEM 16K. CYBERSECURITY.

Risk Management and Strategy

We maintain a comprehensive process for assessing, identifying, and managing risks from cybersecurity threats, including risks relating to disruption of business operations or financial reporting systems, data breach; violation of privacy laws and other litigation and legal risk; and reputational risk. We have developed a cybersecurity policy based on the guidelines and criteria contemplated by the international standards ISO 27001 and ISO 27002, as well as control mechanisms, technologies, processes, and procedures developed on the basis of the guidelines and criteria addressed by Law No. 25,326 (on personal data protection) and the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS).

We have a dedicated cybersecurity structure - the Department of Cybersecurity, under the CTO, led by a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) and further composed of the Departments of i) Architecture Development & Engineering, ii) Business Information Security Officer (BISO) Enablers Community, iii) Cyber Defense Center, and iv) Governance, Risk, Compliance & Incidents ("GRCI"). The functions of our Department of Cybersecurity have been integrated into the Company's general risk systems and processes by incorporating the BISO Department teams by business.

The Department of Cybersecurity is responsible for establishing a set of preventive and reactive measures that affect data processing and enable the protection of information. In addition, it conducts the analysis and evaluation of risks related to cybersecurity threats that may impact the Company, in coordination with the GRCI Manager and other cybersecurity leaders. It also ensures the security of computer systems, electronic systems, networks, computers, servers, and data from malicious attacks. The CISO is responsible for reporting findings to Management. (For further information, see below “Governance - Management”).

Key functions of the Department of Cybersecurity include:

-Preventing unauthorized individuals, entities, or processes from accessing or modifying information;

-Ensuring that all critical business services and information are available when required for authorized users, entities, or processes;

-Identifying risks and proposing security solutions to respond to and monitor them;

-Overseeing, communicating, and executing technical implementations of security solutions for business objectives;

-Proactively searching for threats to achieve early identification and isolation, thereby minimizing the impact on the Company's assets, products, and businesses;

-Maintaining and developing cybersecurity policies and controls to ensure compliance with the mentioned standards and regulations;

PART II

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

155

-Conducting a comprehensive and thorough review of the credit card data processing environment in accordance with the PCI DSS, for which certification was obtained in early 2023. As of the date of this Annual Report, the Department of Cybersecurity is in the process of obtaining the recertification; and

-Assessing each cyber event and evaluating its consequences after the attack has been mitigated, among others.

The Cybersecurity Department's processes are annually reviewed, tested, updated and approved by the GRCI Department. If updates to the processes arise from the review, they are carried out. The final review of the processes is carried out by the CISO.

Between the main processes of the Cybersecurity Department, we can mention the following: incident response, security awareness and training, penetration testing, vulnerability management, security monitoring, threat detection and response, and threat intelligence.

The Company does not engage consultant services to carry out its cybersecurity processes. However, Telecom contracted the PCI audit service, since a Qualified Security Assessor (QSA) is needed to provide such certification.

As of the date of this Annual Report, our insurance policy does not cover damages caused by cyberattacks and other similar events.

Third-Party Service Provider

Our cybersecurity risk management processes extend to the oversight and identification of threats associated with our use of third-party service providers, subject to the terms of the contract established with them. We require in our contracts that third-party services comply with our security policies through Request for Proposals (RFPs).

The Department of Cybersecurity oversees the process and, if any risk is detected, instructs them to comply with the Company's cybersecurity policies.

Training

The Department of Cybersecurity conducts awareness campaigns and training sessions for employees with a focus on: Secure passwords, phishing, social engineering, PCI DSS standards, data leakage, security on WhatsApp and social networks, data protection, and secure development, among others.

Incident Response Plan

We have a critical incident notification process that actively involves and engages the Department of Cybersecurity along with areas such as: Data Center Incidents, Internal Communications, External Communications, B2C Incidents, B2B Incidents, and the relevant business area depending on the incident's impact. The goal is to detect, respond to, and recover from cybersecurity incidents. This includes processes for classifying, assessing severity, escalating, containing, investigating, and remediating the incident. Additionally, the plan is designed to comply with applicable legal obligations and mitigate damage to the brand and reputation.

To this end, we established an Evaluation Committee to assess the materiality of high-criticality incidents. The Evaluation Committee consists of GRCI, the business areas involved in event management (B2C, B2B, etc.), Accounting Reporting, Risk Management, Legal, External Communications and Media and SOX. The Department of GRCI (part of the Department of Cybersecurity, which is lead by the CISO) is responsible for instructing the Evaluation Committee to coordinate and defining the qualitative and quantitative assessment of the incident.

If the preliminary assessment of the Evaluation Committee determines that the event might be material, our policy provides that an Approval Committee composed of the CEO, CFO and the CTO will be convened. The Approval Committee is responsible for supervising the materiality determination of the Evaluation Committee, and, if appropriate, sends relevant information for review to the Audit Committee. If the Audit Committee confirms that the incident is material, the incident is communicated to the Executive Committee and the incident is publicly disclosed according to applicable laws and regulations.

PART II

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

156

Risks from Cybersecurity Threats

In 2023, 2022 and 2021, our business strategy, results of operations, and financial condition have not been materially affected by risks from cybersecurity threats, including as a result of previous cybersecurity incidents, but we cannot provide assurance that they will not be materially affected in the future by such risks and any future material incidents. We also did not experience any significant information security breaches in 2023, 2022 and 2021, and the associated expenses, including penalties and settlements, were immaterial. See “Item 3—Key Information—Risk Factors—A cyberattack, could adversely affect our business, balance sheet, results of operations and cash flow” of this Annual Report for more information on our cybersecurity related risks.

Governance

Management

The cybersecurity risk management processes delineated above are managed by our CISO. The CISO has extensive cybersecurity experience. The CISO has 30 years of experience in Cybersecurity matters, with experience in the design, implementation, auditing and analysis of computer security risks. He is a professor of Cybersecurity Management and Strategy at the CEMA University of Buenos Aires. As part of our cybersecurity risk management, the CISO must be informed about relevant incidents by the GRCI Manager, who informs the CISO about the prevention, detection, mitigation and remediation of those relevant incidents.

The CISO meets regularly with both the Executive Committee and the Audit Committee to discuss cybersecurity processes, cybersecurity risks, initiatives and mitigation efforts.

In addition, in accordance with the “Incident Response Plan,” if an incident is determined to be material, the CISO and the Approval Committee are in charge of communicating information about the incident to the Audit Committee and, in the case the incident must be disclosed, to the Executive Committee.

Board of Directors

At the Board level, the Audit Committee is ultimately responsible for overseeing the Company’s financial and non-financial risks, including cybersecurity threats. To fulfill this responsibility, the Audit Committee holds meetings regularly and when needed, at which the CISO reports on cybersecurity events and provides updates on current risks. Also, the Audit Committee meets the CISO in case of the existence of a material event, as disclosed in “Incident Response Plan”. These reports may include information about the cybersecurity incidents and the responses to them.

The CISO reports on significant cybersecurity incident-related activities in accordance with the “Incident Response Plan” to both the Executive Committee and the Audit Committee.

PART II

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

157

PART III

ITEM 17.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The Registrant has responded to Item 18 in lieu of responding to this Item.

ITEM 18.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Reference is made to pages F-1 through F-96.

The following financial statements are filed as part of this Annual Report:

   

Page

Telecom Argentina S.A.:

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (PCAOB ID 1349)

F-2

Glossary of Terms

F-6

Consolidated Statements of Financial Position

F-10

Consolidated Income Statements

F-11

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

F-12

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity

F-13

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

F-15

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

F-16

PART III

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

158

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 and for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

General Hornos 690

(C1272ACK) Autonomous city of Buenos Aires

Republic of Argentina

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

F-1

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Telecom Argentina S.A.

Opinions on the Financial Statements and Internal Control over Financial Reporting

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial position of Telecom Argentina S.A. and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023, including the related notes (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”). We also have audited the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023 in conformity with IFRS Accounting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the COSO.

Basis for Opinions

The Company’s management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting appearing under Item 15. Our responsibility is to express opinions on the Company’s consolidated financial statements and on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (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 audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud, and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.

Our audits of the consolidated financial statements included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated 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 consolidated 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 consolidated financial statements. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

F-2

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Critical Audit Matters

The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current period audit of the consolidated financial statements that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (i) relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements and (ii) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated 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 Impairment Assessment – CGU of Telecom

As described in Notes 3.l), 3.m), 3.u), 3.u.1) and 8 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company’s consolidated goodwill balance was $ 1,543,964 million as of December 31, 2023, and the goodwill assigned to a cash generating unit related to operations carried out by the Company and its subsidiaries in Argentina (“the CGU of Telecom”) was $ 1,535,508 million as of December 31, 2023. Management tests for impairment at least annually, at closing date of every year, or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the goodwill might be impaired. The carrying value of the goodwill is considered impaired by management when the carrying value of the CGU of Telecom is higher than its recoverable value. The recoverable value of the CGU of Telecom was calculated based on the fair value less the costs of disposal (hereinafter “FVLCD”). The assessment of the FVLCD of the CGU of Telecom included significant judgments by management in determining the market capitalization value of the Company adjusted for (i) the estimated fair value of other CGUs, (ii) the effect of the net liabilities not subject to this impairment test at their estimated fair value, (iii) an estimated control premium (determined by the management with the assistance of advisors, based in the values observed in market transactions) and (iv) estimated disposal costs in an orderly transaction.

The principal consideration for our determination that performing procedures relating to the goodwill impairment assessment of the CGU of Telecom is a critical audit matter is the significant judgment applied by management when developing the assessment of the recoverable value of the CGU of Telecom, which was determined using FVLCD. This, in turn, led to a high degree of auditor judgment, subjectivity, and effort in performing procedures to assess the FVLCD of the CGU of Telecom and to evaluate adjustments made by management to the Company’s market capitalization value, related to the estimated fair value of other CGUs, the effect of the net liabilities not subject to the impairment test at their estimated fair value and the estimated control premium. In addition, the audit effort involved the use of professionals with specialized skill and knowledge to assist in performing these procedures and evaluating the audit evidence obtained.

F-3

Addressing the matter involved performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence in connection with forming our overall opinion on the financial statements. These procedures included testing the effectiveness of controls relating to management’s goodwill impairment assessment, including controls over the determination of the FVLCD for the CGU of Telecom. These procedures also included, among others, evaluating the appropriateness of the FVLCD determination for the CGU of Telecom; testing the completeness, accuracy, and relevance of underlying data used in the estimate; and evaluating the adjustments to the Company’s market capitalization value made by management, including (i) the estimated fair value of other CGUs (ii) the estimated fair value for the net liabilities not subject to the impairment test and (iii) the estimated control premium based in the values observed in market transactions. Evaluating management’ adjustments to Company’s market capitalization value to determine the FVLCD of the CGU of Telecom involved evaluating whether the significant judgements used by management were reasonable considering the consistency with: (i) valuation techniques generally used to determine fair values, (ii) external market data and (iii) evidence obtained in other areas of the audit. Professionals with specialized skill and knowledge were used to assist in the evaluation of the methodology used by management to determine the FVLCD and the reasonableness of the adjustments to the Company’s market capitalization value made by management.

/s/ PRICE WATERHOUSE & CO. S.R.L.

(Partner)

/s/ Alejandro Javier Rosa

Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, Argentina

March 21th, 2024

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2003.

F-4

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

CONTENTS

Page

Glossary of terms

F-6

Consolidated Statements of Financial Position

F-10

Consolidated Income Statements

F-11

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

F-12

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity

F-13

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

F-15

Note 1 – Description of business and basis of preparation of the consolidated financial statements

F-16

Note 2 – Regulatory framework

F-21

Note 3 – Significant accounting policies

F-28

Note 4 – Cash and cash equivalents and Investments. Additional information on the consolidated statements of cash flows

F-50

Note 5 – Trade receivables

F-54

Note 6 – Other receivables

F-54

Note 7 – Inventories

F-55

Note 8 – Goodwill

F-55

Note 9 – PP&E

F-55

Note 10 – Intangible assets

F-57

Note 11 – Rights of use assets

F-59

Note 12 – Trade payables

F-60

Note 13 – Borrowings

F-61

Note 14 – Salaries and social security payables

F-66

Note 15 – Income tax payable and Deferred income tax assets/liabilities

F-67

Note 16 – Other taxes payables

F-70

Note 17 – Leases liabilities

F-70

Note 18 – Other liabilities

F-71

Note 19 – Provisions

F-71

Note 20 – Purchase commitments

F-77

Note 21 – Equity

F-78

Note 22 – Financial instruments

F-79

Note 23 – Revenues

F-84

Note 24 – Operating expenses

F-85

Note 25 – Financial results

F-87

Note 26 – Financial risk management

F-87

Note 27 – Balances and transactions with Companies under Section 33 - Law No. 19,550 and Related Parties

F-92

Note 28 – Acquisition of shareholdings

F-95

Note 29 – Economic environment

F-96

F-5

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Glossary of terms

The following explanations are not technical definitions, but to assist the financial statement reader to understand certain terms as used in these consolidated financial statements.

Abono fijo: Under the Abono fijo plans, a subscriber pays a set monthly bill and, once the contract minutes per month have been used, the subscriber can obtain additional credit by recharging the phone card through the prepaid system.

ADR: American Depositary Receipt.

ADS: Telecom Argentina’s American Depositary Share, listed on the New York Stock Exchange, each representing five Class B Shares.

AFIP (Administración Federal de Ingresos Públicos): The Argentine federal tax authority.

AMBA (Área Metropolitana de Buenos Aires): The Metropolitan Area of Buenos Aires.

BCRA (Banco Central de la República Argentina): The Central Bank of Argentina.

BYMA (Bolsas y Mercados Argentinos): Buenos Aires Stock Exchange.

Cablevisión: Company absorbed by Telecom since January 1, 2018, whose activities are continued by Telecom.

CAPEX: Capital expenditures.

CNC (Comisión Nacional de Comunicaciones): The Argentine National Communications Commission.

CNDC (Comisión Nacional de Defensa de la Competencia): The Argentine Antitrust Commission.

CNV (Comisión Nacional de Valores): The Argentine National Securities Commission.

Company/Telecom Argentina: Telecom Argentina S.A.

CONATEL (Comisión Nacional de Telecomunicaciones del Paraguay): The Regulatory Authority of Paraguay.

CPCECABA (Consejo Profesional de Ciencias Económicas de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires): The Professional Council of Economic Sciences of the City of Buenos Aires.

CVH: Cablevisión Holding S.A., controlling company of Telecom since January 1, 2018 (Note 27.a).

DNU (Decreto de Necesidad y Urgencia): Decree of Urgency issued by the Argentine Government.

DFI: Derivate Finantial Instrument.

DATDH (Distribución de Señales de Audio y Televisión Directa al Hogar): direct-to-home subscription audio and television services.

ENACOM (Ente Nacional de Telecomunicaciones): The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Argentina.

ENTel (Empresa Nacional de Telecomunicaciones): Argentine State Telecommunication Company, which was privatized in November 1990.

FACPCE (Federación Argentina de Consejos Profesionales en Ciencias Económicas): Argentine Federation of Professional Councils of Economic Sciences.

FCC: Federal Communications Commission

F-6

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

FFSU or SU Fund (Fondo Fiduciario del Servicio Universal): Universal Service Fiduciary Fund.

Fintech: Fintech Telecom LLC, a Telecom shareholder.

Fintech services: Financial technology services are activities that involve the use of innovation and technological developments for the design, offer and provision of financial products and services.

FIU: Financial Information Unit.

Fixed Assets: Includes PP&E, Intangible assets, Goodwill and Rights of use assets.

IAS: International Accounting Standards.

IASB: International Accounting Standards Board.

ICT Services (Information and Communication Technology services): Services to transport and distribute signals or data, such as voice, text, video and images, provided or requested by third-party users, through telecommunications networks.

IFRS Accounting Standards: International Financial Reporting Standards, as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.

IGJ (Inspección General de Justicia): General Board of Corporations.

INDEC (Instituto Nacional de estadísticas y censos): The National Institute of statistics and censuses.

La Capital Cable/Ver TV/TSMA: Names corresponding to limited companies La Capital Cable S.A., Ver T.V. S.A. and Teledifusora San Miguel Arcángel S.A., respectively, companies that are directly or indirectly associates according to the definition of the General Corporations Law.

LAD (Ley Argentina Digital): Argentine Digital Law No. 27,078.

LGS (Ley de General de Sociedades): Argentine Corporations Law No. 19,550 as amended. Since the enforcement of the new Civil and Commercial Code its name was changed to “General Corporations Law”.

LSCA (Ley de Servicios de Comunicación Audiovisual o de Medios): Law of Audiovisual Communications Services.

Micro Sistemas/Pem/Cable Imagen/AVC Continente Audiovisual/Inter Radios/Personal Smarthome/NYS2/NYSSA: Names corresponding to limited companies or limited responsibility companies that are directly or indirectly controlled according to the definition of the General Corporations Law, or were controlled by the Company, directly or indirectly: Micro Sistemas S.A.U., Pem S.A.U., Cable Imagen S.R.L., AVC Continente Audiovisual S.A., Inter Radios S.A.U., Personal Smarthome S.A., NYS2 S.A.U., Negocios y Servicios S.A.U.

MULC (Mercado Único y Libre de Cambios): The Argentine Single and Free Exchange Market.

NYSE: New York Stock Exchange.

OCI: Other Comprehensive Income.

OPH: Name corresponding to company Open Pass Holding LLC that is a joint venture of Telecom.

PBU (Prestación Básica Universal Obligatoria): Compulsory universal telecommunication service established by Decree No. 690/20 and regulated by ENACOM Resolution No. 1,467/20.

PCS (Personal Communications Service): A mobile communications service with systems that operate in a similar manner to cellular systems.

PEN (Poder Ejecutivo Nacional): National Executive Power.

F-7

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

PPP (Programa de Propiedad Participada): Share Ownership plan.

PP&E: Property, plant and equipment.

PSP: Payment Service Providers.

RECPAM (Resultado por exposición a los cambios en el poder adquisitivo de la moneda): Inflation Adjustment Gain (Loss).

Regulatory Authority: Previously, the SC and the CNC. Since the issuance of the Decree of Need and Urgency No. 267/15, the Regulatory Authority is the National Communications Agency (ENACOM).

RMB: Official currency of Popular Republic of China.

Roaming: a function that enables mobile subscribers to use the service on networks of operators other than the one with which they signed their initial contract. The roaming service is active when a mobile device is used in a foreign country (included in the GSM network).

SBT (Servicio básico telefónico): Basic telephone service.

SC (Secretaría de Comunicaciones): The Argentine Secretary of Communications.

SCMA (Servicio de Comunicaciones Móviles Avanzadas): Mobile Advanced Communications Service.

SEFyC (Superintendencia de Entidades Financieras y Cambiarias): Superintendency of Financial and Exchange Entities.

SMS: Short message systems.

SOF: Secured Overnight Financing

SRCE (Servicio Radioeléctrico de Concentración de Enlaces): Radio-electric Service of Concentration of Links.

SRMC (Servicio de Radiocomunicaciones Móvil Celular): Cellular Mobile Radiocommunications Service.

SRS (Servicio de Radiodifusión por Suscripción por vínculo físico y/o radioeléctrico): Subscription Broadcasting Service by physical and / or radio-electric link.

STeFI (Servicios de Telecomunicaciones Fiables e Inteligentes): Reliable and Intelligent Telecommunications Service.

STM (Servicio de Telefonía Móvil): Mobile Telephone Service.

STMC (Servicio de Telefonía Móvil por Celular): Mobile Telephone Service by Cellular.

SU: The availability of Basic telephone service, or access to the public telephone network via different alternatives, at an affordable price to people within a country or specified area.

Telecom: Telecom Argentina and its consolidated subsidiaries.

Telecom USA/ Núcleo/ Personal Envíos/ Tuves Paraguay/ Televisión Dirigida/ Adesol/ Opalker/Ubiquo/ Micro Fintech Holding: Names corresponding to foreign companies Telecom Argentina USA Inc., Núcleo S.A.E., Personal Envíos S.A., Tuves Paraguay S.A., Televisión Dirigida S.A., Adesol S.A., Opalker S.A., Ubiquo Chile Spa and Micro Fintech Holding LLC, respectively, companies that are directly or indirectly controlled according to the definition of the General Corporations Law.

Telefónica: Telefónica de Argentina S.A.

URSEC (Unidad Regulatoria de Servicios de Comunicaciones): Communication Services Regulatory Agency

F-8

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

USA: United States of America

UVA (Unidad de Valor Adquistivo): Purchasing Value Unit, an index developed and published by the BCRA.

VAS (Value-Added Services): Services that provide additional functionality to the basic transmission services offered by a telecommunications network such as SMS, Video streaming, Personal Video, Personal Cloud, M2M (Communication Machine to Machine), Social networks, Personal Messenger, Contents and Entertainment (content and text subscriptions, games, music ringtones, wallpaper, screensavers, etc.), MMS (Mobile Multimedia Services) and Voice Mail, among others.

VAT: Value-Added Tax.

VLG: VLG S.A.U. (formerly VLG Argentina LLC), a company that was a shareholder of the Company and controlled by CVH. During 2023 it was merged and absorbed by CVH.

WACC: Weighted Average Cost of Capital, discount rate used to discount cash flows in estimating the recoverable value of the Goodwill.

F-9

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION

(In millions of Argentine pesos in current currency - Note 1.d)

As of December 31, 

ASSETS

    

Note

    

2023

    

2022

Current Assets

 

  

 

  

 

  

Cash and cash equivalents

 

4

 

159,774

 

124,725

Investments

 

4

 

123,969

 

26,074

Trade receivables

 

5

 

132,868

 

117,139

Other receivables

 

6

 

44,261

 

60,841

Inventories

 

7

 

31,529

 

20,079

Assets classified as held for sale

2,971

Total current assets

 

 

492,401

 

351,829

Non-Current Assets

 

 

 

  

Trade receivables

 

5

 

252

 

368

Other receivables

 

6

 

9,407

 

5,198

Deferred income tax assets

 

15

 

13,815

 

7,698

Investments

 

4

 

23,808

 

20,062

Goodwill

8

1,543,964

1,540,713

PP&E

 

9

 

2,271,838

 

2,468,820

Intangible assets

 

10

 

906,426

 

793,489

Right of use assets

11

215,692

195,975

Total non-current assets

 

 

4,985,202

 

5,032,323

TOTAL ASSETS

 

 

5,477,603

 

5,384,152

LIABILITIES

 

 

 

  

Current Liabilities

 

 

 

  

Trade payables

 

12

 

356,854

 

277,954

Borrowings

 

13

 

563,478

 

418,411

Salaries and social security payables

 

14

 

91,140

 

117,252

Income tax payables

15

1,562

976

Other taxes payables

 

16

 

39,148

 

30,926

Leases liabilities

 

17

 

28,736

 

28,656

Other liabilities

 

18

 

20,460

 

15,446

Provisions

 

19

 

5,340

8,201

Total current liabilities

 

 

1,106,718

 

897,822

Non-Current Liabilities

 

 

 

Trade payables

 

12

 

914

 

992

Borrowings

 

13

 

1,564,591

 

1,042,680

Salaries and social security payables

 

14

 

3,729

 

8,554

Deferred income tax liabilities

 

15

 

461,142

 

797,867

Other taxes payables

 

16

 

11

 

138

Leases liabilities

17

59,909

61,331

Other liabilities

 

18

 

9,042

 

8,125

Provisions

 

19

 

26,117

 

36,292

Total non-current liabilities

 

 

2,125,455

 

1,955,979

TOTAL LIABILITIES

 

 

3,232,173

 

2,853,801

EQUITY

 

 

 

  

Equity attributable to Controlling Company

 

 

2,167,879

 

2,479,866

Equity attributable to non-controlling interest

 

 

77,551

 

50,485

TOTAL EQUITY(See Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity)

 

21

 

2,245,430

 

2,530,351

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

 

  

 

5,477,603

 

5,384,152

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements

F-10

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS

(In millions of Argentine pesos in current currency, except per share data in Argentine pesos in current currency - Note 1.d)

For the years ended December 31, 

    

Note

    

2023

    

2022

    

2021

Revenues

 

23

 

2,059,101

 

2,270,728

 

2,581,043

Employee benefit expenses and severance payments

 

24

 

(514,462)

 

(568,830)

 

(556,999)

Interconnection and transmission costs

 

 

(60,793)

 

(69,927)

 

(92,578)

Fees for services, maintenance, materials and supplies

 

24

 

(258,717)

 

(275,459)

 

(299,848)

Taxes and fees with the Regulatory Authority

 

24

 

(158,189)

 

(174,360)

 

(198,619)

Commissions and advertising

 

 

(120,602)

 

(137,536)

 

(147,962)

Cost of equipment

 

24

 

(111,078)

 

(107,560)

 

(127,151)

Programming and content costs

 

 

(116,172)

 

(142,441)

 

(175,606)

Bad debt expenses

 

 

(44,652)

 

(57,118)

 

(48,424)

Other operating expenses

 

24

 

(95,040)

 

(113,499)

 

(128,490)

Depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets

 

24

 

(704,461)

 

(1,542,467)

 

(822,272)

Operating loss

 

 

(125,065)

 

(918,469)

 

(16,906)

Earnings (losess) from associates and joint ventures

 

4.a

 

(1,888)

 

2,550

 

2,398

Financial costs

 

25

 

(634,307)

 

92,625

 

174,096

Other financial results, net

25

173,316

100,379

102,811

Income (loss) before income tax

 

 

(587,944)

 

(722,915)

 

262,399

Income tax benefit (expense)

 

15

 

338,257

 

82,536

 

(202,105)

Net income (loss) for the year

 

  

 

(249,687)

 

(640,379)

 

60,294

Attributable to:

 

  

 

  

 

 

Controlling Company

 

  

 

(257,730)

 

(647,208)

 

52,559

Non-controlling interest

 

  

 

8,043

 

6,829

 

7,735

 

  

 

(249,687)

 

(640,379)

 

60,294

Earnings per share for income (loss) attributable to the Controlling Company-Basic and diluted

 

3.t

 

(119.67)

 

(300.51)

 

24.40

See Note 24 for additional information on operating expenses per function.

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

F-11

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(In millions of Argentine pesos in current currency - Note 1.d)

For the years ended December 31, 

    

2023

    

2022

    

2021

Net income (loss) for the year

 

(249,687)

 

(640,379)

 

60,294

Other comprehensive income

 

 

 

Items that may reclassified to profit or loss

 

 

 

Currency translation adjustments (no effect on Income Tax)

 

73,145

 

(20,989)

 

(38,761)

DFI effects classified as hedges

 

1,313

 

1,893

 

2,074

Income Tax effects on DFI classified as hedges and others

(362)

(868)

(775)

Items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss

 

 

 

Actuarial results

 

(420)

 

87

 

(212)

Income Tax effects

 

147

 

(31)

 

72

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax

 

73,823

 

(19,908)

 

(37,602)

Total comprehensive income (loss) for the year

 

(175,864)

 

(660,287)

 

22,692

Attributable to:

 

 

 

Controlling Company

 

(206,952)

 

(662,732)

 

24,078

Non-controlling interest

 

31,088

 

2,445

 

(1,386)

 

(175,864)

 

(660,287)

 

22,692

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

F-12

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

(In millions of Argentine pesos in current currency - Note 1.d)

Owners contribution

Outstanding

Reserves

shares

Equity

Equity

Capital

Special

attributable

attributable

nominal

reserve for

Other

to

to non-

value

Inflation

Contributed

IFRS

Facultative

comprehensive

Retained

controlling

controlling

Total

    

(1)

adjustment

Surplus

  

Legal

    

implementation

    

(2)

    

results

    

earnings

    

company

    

interest

    

Equity

Balances as of January 1, 2021

 

2,154

857,702

2,316,041

48,539

18,706

369,716

(58,301)

(52,746)

3,501,811

58,592

3,560,403

Resolutions of the General Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting held on April 28, 2021:

    

- Absorption of negative Retained earnings

(52,326)

52,326

- Reserves reallocation

(107,295)

107,295

Dividends to non-controlling shareholders

(5,060)

(5,060)

Resolutions of the General Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting held on August 11, 2021:

- Dividends (3)

(242,761)

(242,761)

(242,761)

Exercise Irrevocable Call and Put Option on the shares of AVC Continente Audiovisual valuation adjustment

407

407

(149)

258

Comprehensive income:

 

 

 

Net income for the year

 

 

 

 

52,559

52,559

7,735

60,294

Other comprehensive loss

(28,481)

(28,481)

(9,121)

(37,602)

Total Comprehensive income (loss)

 

 

 

 

 

(28,481)

52,559

 

24,078

 

(1,386)

 

22,692

Balances as of December 31, 2021

 

2,154

857,702

2,208,746

48,539

18,706

181,924

(86,375)

52,139

3,283,535

51,997

3,335,532

Resolutions of the General Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting held on April 27, 2022:

- Reserves constitution

2,479

50,080

(52,559)

- Reserves reallocation

(92,734)

92,734

Dividends (3)

(140,937)

(140,937)

(140,937)

Dividends to non-controlling shareholders

(420)

420

(3,957)

(3,957)

Comprehensive income:

Net income(loss) for the year

(647,208)

(647,208)

6,829

(640,379)

Other comprehensive loss

 

 

 

 

 

 

(15,524)

(15,524)

(4,384)

(19,908)

Total Comprehensive income (loss)

 

(15,524)

(647,208)

(662,732)

2,445

(660,287)

Balances as of December 31, 2022

 

2,154

857,702

2,116,012

51,018

18,706

183,801

(102,319)

(647,208)

2,479,866

50,485

2,530,351

(1)See Note 21.
(2)Corresponds to the Facultative Reserve to maintain the capital investments level and the current level of solvency.
(3)See Note 4. b).

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

F-13

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (CONT.)

(In millions of Argentine pesos in current currency - Note 1.d)

Owners contribution

Outstanding

Reserves

shares

Equity

Equity 

Capital

Special

attributable

attributable

nominal

reserve for

Other

to

to non-

value

Inflation

Contributed

IFRS

Facultative

comprehensive

Retained

controlling

controlling

Total

    

(1)

adjustment

    

Surplus

  

Legal

  

implementation

    

(2)

    

income (loss)

    

earnings

company

    

interest

    

Equity

Balances as of January 1, 2023

2,154

857,702

2,116,012

51,018

18,706

183,801

(102,319)

(647,208)

2,479,866

50,485

2,530,351

Resolutions of the General Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting held on April 27, 2023

- Specific loss allocation (1)

(853,028)

853,028

- Reserves constitution (1)

205,820

(205,820)

Dividends (3)

 

 

 

 

 

(104,445)

 

(104,445)

(104,445)

Dividends to non-controlling shareholders

(4,020)

(4,020)

Subsidiary acquisition (4)

(2)

(2)

Subsidiary call option (5)

(590)

(590)

(590)

Comprehensive income:

 

Net income (loss) for the year

 

 

 

 

 

 

(257,730)

(257,730)

8,043

(249,687)

Other comprehensive income

 

 

 

 

 

 

50,778

50,778

23,045

73,823

Total Comprehensive income (loss)

 

 

 

 

 

 

50,778

(257,730)

(206,952)

31,088

(175,864)

Balances as of December 31, 2023

 

2,154

857,702

 

1,262,984

51,018

 

18,706

 

285,176

 

(52,131)

 

(257,730)

2,167,879

77,551

2,245,430

(1)See Note 21.
(2)Corresponds to the Facultative Reserve to maintain the capital investments level and the current level of solvency.
(3)See Note 4.b).
(4)Correspond to Ubiquo’s acquisition. See Note 1.a).
(5)This operation represents a transaction between controlling and non-controlling stockholders related to the extension of the purchase option of Adesol’s special purpose entities. Therefore, the payments made by the subsidiary Adesol were recognized directly in “Other comprehensive income (loss)” within equity attributable to controlling company.

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

F-14

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In millions of Argentine pesos in current currency – Note 1.d)

For the years ended December 31, 

    

Note

    

2023

    

2022

    

2021

CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN) OPERATING ACTIVITIES

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

Net income (loss) for the year

 

  

 

(249,687)

 

(640,379)

 

60,294

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows provided by operating activities

 

  

 

 

  

 

Allowances deducted from assets

 

 

39,732

 

59,566

 

57,327

Depreciation of PP&E

 

24

 

544,533

 

619,041

 

657,448

Amortization of intangible assets

 

24

 

87,908

 

89,215

 

94,375

Amortization of rights of use assets

 

24

 

71,706

 

67,728

 

62,661

Impairment of Goodwill

3.m

759,722

4,045

Disposals of Fixed Assets and consumption of materials

 

 

388

 

15,053

 

12,491

Earnings (losses) from associates and joint ventures

4.a

1,888

(2,550)

(2,398)

Financial results and others

 

 

280,561

 

(199,415)

 

(347,414)

Income tax

 

15

 

(338,257)

 

(82,536)

 

202,105

Income tax paid (*)

 

 

(5,121)

 

(31,539)

 

(13,770)

Net increase in assets

 

4.b

 

(288,674)

 

(180,632)

 

(104,901)

Net increase in liabilities

 

4.b

 

472,721

 

193,212

 

106,533

Total cash flows provided by operating activities

 

 

617,698

 

666,486

 

788,796

CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN) INVESTING ACTIVITIES

 

 

 

  

 

  

Payments for PP&E

 

 

(263,939)

 

(365,141)

 

(446,375)

Payments for intangible asset acquisitions

 

 

(199,569)

 

(16,255)

 

(15,408)

Payment for acquisition of subsidiary, net of cash acquired and joint venture

 

 

(2,257)

 

(1,267)

 

Acquisition of call options agreements

3.f.1

(2,496)

Dividends from associates

 

4.b

 

1,204

 

1,915

 

1,420

Proceeds from the sale of PP&E and intangible assets

 

 

1,155

 

1,115

 

953

Net investments acquisitions not considered as cash and cash equivalents

(127,805)

(136,885)

(238,896)

Total cash flows used in investing activities

 

 

(593,707)

 

(516,518)

 

(698,306)

CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN) FINANCING ACTIVITIES

 

 

 

  

 

  

Proceeds from borrowings

 

4.b

 

388,169

 

265,366

 

389,534

Payment of borrowings

 

4.b

 

(228,552)

 

(212,732)

 

(305,095)

Payment of interests and related expenses

 

4.b

 

(182,855)

 

(143,908)

 

(162,673)

Payments of leases liabilities

(44,192)

(47,521)

(40,013)

Transactions with non-controlling interests

(590)

(358)

Dividends paid to non-controlling interests in subsidiaries

 

4.b

 

(4,020)

 

(3,827)

 

(4,512)

Total cash flows used in financing activities

 

  

 

(72,040)

 

(142,622)

 

(123,117)

NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

 

  

 

(48,049)

 

7,346

 

(32,627)

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT THE BEGINNING OF THE YEAR

 

 

124,725

 

120,408

 

169,636

NET FOREIGN EXCHANGE DIFFERENCES AND RECPAM ON CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

83,098

(3,029)

(16,601)

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT THE END OF THE YEAR

 

 

159,774

 

124,725

 

120,408

(*)

Years ended December 31,

    

2023

2022

2021

Corresponding to Controlling Company

 

(662)

 

(28,186)

 

(11,597)

Corresponding to subsidiaries

 

(4,459)

 

(3,353)

 

(2,173)

 

(5,121)

 

(31,539)

 

(13,770)

See Note 4.b for additional information on the consolidated statements of cash flows.

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

F-15

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

NOTE 1 - DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND BASIS OF PREPARATION OF THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

a)    The Company and its Operations

Telecom Argentina was created through the privatization of ENTel, the state-owned company that provided telecommunication services in Argentina.

Telecom Argentina’s license, as originally granted, was exclusive to provide telephone services in the northern region of Argentina since November 8, 1990 through October 10, 1999. As of October 10, 1999, the Company also began providing telephone services in all the country.

In November 2017, the Company merged between Telecom Personal, so, since that date, it provides directly mobile telecommunications services.

As a consequence of the merger with Cablevisión (accounted for as a reverse acquisition on January 1, 2018), the Company provides cable television services through networks installed in different localities in Argentina and Uruguay.

Therefore, the Company mainly provides fixed and mobile telephony services, cable television services, data and Internet services in Argentina. Additionally, through its subsidiaries, it also provides diverse ICT Services in Uruguay, Paraguay, USA and Chile.

Moreover, through its controlled company Micro Sistemas, the Company provides fintech services related to the use of electronic means of payment, transfers and/or electronic use of money, among others.

Lastly, information on Telecom’s licenses and on the regulatory framework is described under Note 2.

As of December 31, 2023, the following are the subsidiaries included in the consolidation process and the respective equity interest owned by Telecom Argentina:

Telecom Argentina's

    

direct/indirect interest

in capital stock and

Company

  

  

Main Activity

  

  

Country

  

  

votes

Núcleo (a)

 

Mobile telecommunications Services

Paraguay

67.50

%

Personal Envíos

Mobile financial services

Paraguay

67.50

%

Tuves Paraguay (a)

Distribution of television and audio signals direct to home services

Paraguay

67.50

%

Televisión Dirigida

Cable television services

Paraguay

100.00

%

AVC Continente Audiovisual

Broadcasting services

Argentina

100.00

%

Inter Radios

Broadcasting services

Argentina

100.00

%

Micro Sistemas

Services related to the use of electronic payment media

Argentina

100.00

%

Pem

Investment

Argentina

100.00

%

Cable Imagen

 

Closed-circuit television

Argentina

100.00

%

Personal Smarthome (b)

 

Security solutions and services

Argentina

100.00

%

NYS2 (b) (c)

 

ICT Services and Audiovisual Communication Services.

Argentina

100.00

%

NYSSA (d)

 

Provision of internet access services.

Argentina

100.00

%

Adesol (e)

Holding

Uruguay

100.00

%

Opalker

Cybersecurity and related services

Uruguay

100.00

%

Ubiquo (f)

Cybersecurity services and products

Chile

95.00

%

Telecom USA

Telecommunication services

USA

100.00

%

Micro Fintech Holding (g)

Holding

USA

100.00

%

(a)On October 17, 2023, Núcleo’s Board of Directors approved the pre-commitment agreement for the merger by absorption with Tuves Paraguay, which was approved by the Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting on November 2, 2023. The Definitive Merger Commitment was approved by the Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting on December 20, 2023. The effective date of the merger will be the day after obtaining approval of the merger from the Public Registry of Commerce. As of the date of issuance of these consolidated financial statements, the approval of the merger is still pending.
(b)As of December 31, 2023 is a dormant entity.

F-16

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

(c)Company indirectly acquired on April 5, 2022 for a total consideration of $0.3 million in current currency of 31 December 2023 through subsidiary Personal Smarthome S.A. In May 2023, the company changed its name from “Personal Smart Security S.A.U.” to “NYS2 S.A.U.” and modified its main activity to ICT Services and Audiovisual Communication Services”. On October 18, 2023, ENACOM granted it the “license to provide ICT Services, whether fixed or mobile, wired or wireless, domestic or international, with or without its own infrastructure.
(d)Company acquired on June 1, 2022. For further information, see Note 28.
(e)Includes the 100% interest in Telemas S.A., which holds interests in the following special-purpose entities: Audomar S.A., Bersabel S.A., Dolfycor S.A., Reiford S.A., Space Energy S.A., Tracel S.A. and Visión Satelital S.A. (See Note 3.d. 6)).
(f)Company indirectly acquired by the subsidiary Opalker on June 20, 2023, for a total amount of US$0.2 million ($106 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023). A goodwill of $265 million was recognized related to this transaction. This acquisition allows the Company to move forward in its regional expansion model with cybersecurity solutions.
(g)In order to participate and invest in the capital of other companies related to the financial activity, on October 11, 2023, Telecom Argentina established the company Micro Fintech Holding LLC in the State of Delaware, USA. Telecom Argentina is the owner of 100% of the participation in such company. As of the date of issuance of these consolidated financial statements is a dormant entity.

b)    Segment information

An operating segment is defined as a component of an entity that may earn revenues and incur expenses, and whose financial information is available, held separately, and evaluated regularly by the chief operating decision maker. In the case of the Company, the Executive Committee and the Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) are responsible for controlling recourses and for the economic and financial performance of Telecom.

The Executive Committee and the CEO have a strategic and operational vision of Telecom as a single business unit, according to the current regulatory context of the converged ICT Services industry (adding to the same segment both the activities related to the mobile services, internet services, cable television and fixed and data services, services governed by the same regulatory framework of ICT Services). To exercise its functions, both the Executive Committee and the CEO receive periodically the economic-financial information of Telecom Argentina and its subsidiaries (in current currency as of the date of each transaction), that is prepared as a single segment and evaluate the evolution of business as a unit of generation of results, administrating the resources in a unique way to achieve the objectives. Regarding to costs, they are not specifically appropriate to a type of service, considering that the Company has a single payroll and operating expenses that affect all services in general (non-specific). On the other hand, decisions on CAPEX affect all the types of services provided by Telecom in Argentina and not specifically to one of them. Based on what was previously described and under the accounting principles (provided by IFRS Accounting Standards), it was defined that the Company has a single segment of operations in Argentina.

Additionally, Telecom, through Micro Sistemas, develops activities in the fintech industry in Argentina, which are not analyzed as a separate segment by the Executive Committee and the CEO, taking into account that, as of December 31, 2023, activities of Micro Sistemas are not significant. In the same sense, the balances and transactions of the Micro Sistemas business do not exceed any of the quantitative thresholds identified under IFRS Accounting Standards to qualify as reportable segments.

The Executive Committee and the CEO will continue to monitor this business to evaluate the manner in which its performance is reviewed and, eventually, its consideration as a separate reportable segment provided it complies with the requirements established by IFRS Accounting Standards to that effect.

Telecom carries out activities abroad (Paraguay, United States of America, Uruguay and Chile). These operations are not analyzed as a separate segment by the Executive Committee and the CEO, who analyze the consolidated information of companies in Argentina and abroad (in current currency as of the date of each transaction), considering that the activities of foreign companies are not significant for Telecom. Operations carried out abroad by Telecom do not meet the aggregation criteria established by the standard to be grouped within the “Services rendered in Argentina” segment, and considering that they do not exceed any of the quantitative thresholds identified in the standard to qualify as reportable segments, they are grouped within the category “Other abroad segments”.

The Executive Committee and the CEO evaluate the profitability for each reportable segment based on the measure of the Adjusted EBITDA. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as our net (loss) income less income tax, financial results, Earnings (losses) from associates and joint ventures, depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets.

F-17

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Presented below is the Segment financial information as it is analyzed by the Executive Committee and the CEO for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021.

Consolidated Income Statement as of December 31, 2023

    

    

Services

    

Services

    

    

Other

    

    

    

rendered in

rendered in

abroad

Other abroad

Services

Argentina –

Argentina

Other

segments –

segments

 rendered in

Inflation

restated for

abroad 

Inflation

restated for

Argentina

restatement

inflation

segments 

restatement

inflation

Eliminations

Total 

Revenues

 

1,054,683

 

870,441

1,925,124

80,246

 

62,669

142,915

(8,938)

 

2,059,101

Operating costs without depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets

 

(759,759)

 

(645,509)

(1,405,268)

(46,821)

 

(36,554)

(83,375)

8,938

 

(1,479,705)

Adjusted EBITDA

294,924

224,932

519,856

33,425

26,115

59,540

579,396

Depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets

 

 

 

 

(704,461)

Operating loss

 

 

 

 

(125,065)

Losses from associates and joint ventures

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

(1,888)

Financial cost

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

(634,307)

Other financial results, net

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

173,316

Loss before income tax

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

(587,944)

Income tax benefit

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

338,257

Net loss

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

(249,687)

Attributable to:

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

Controlling Company

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

(257,730)

Non-controlling interest

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

8,043

(249,687)

Consolidated Income Statement as of December 31, 2022

    

    

Services

    

Services

    

    

Other

    

    

    

rendered in

rendered in

abroad

Other abroad

Services

Argentina –

Argentina

Other 

segments –

segments

rendered in

Inflation

restated for

abroad

Inflation

restated for

Argentina

restatement

inflation

 segments 

restatement

inflation

Eliminations

Total 

Revenues

 

504,432

 

1,622,426

2,126,858

36,528

 

116,827

153,355

(9,485)

 

2,270,728

Operating costs without depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets

 

(370,534)

 

(1,194,810)

(1,565,344)

(21,661)

 

(69,210)

(90,871)

9,485

 

(1,646,730)

Adjusted EBITDA

133,898

427,616

561,514

14,867

47,617

62,484

623,998

Depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets

 

 

 

 

(1,542,467)

Operating loss

 

 

 

 

(918,469)

Earnings from associates and joint ventures

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

2,550

Financial cost

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

92,625

Other financial results, net

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

100,379

Loss before income tax

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

(722,915)

Income tax benefit

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

82,536

Net loss

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

(640,379)

Attributable to:

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

Controlling Company

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

(647,208)

Non-controlling interest

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

6,829

(640,379)

F-18

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Consolidated Income Statement as of December 31, 2021

    

Services

Services

    

Other

    

rendered in

rendered in

abroad

Other abroad

Services

Argentina –

Argentina

Other 

segments –

segments

 rendered in

Inflation

restated for

abroad

Inflation

restated for

Argentina

restatement

inflation

 segments 

restatement

inflation

Eliminations

Total 

Revenues

 

332,816

 

2,070,653

2,403,469

26,215

 

163,537

189,752

(12,178)

 

2,581,043

Operating costs without depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets

 

(229,554)

 

(1,445,309)

(1,674,863)

(15,514)

 

(97,478)

(112,992)

12,178

 

(1,775,677)

Adjusted EBITDA

103,262

625,344

728,606

10,701

66,059

76,760

805,366

Depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets

 

 

 

 

(822,272)

Operating loss

 

 

 

 

(16,906)

Earnings from associates and joint ventures

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

2,398

Financial cost

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

174,096

Other financial results, net

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

102,811

Income before income tax

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

262,399

Income tax expense

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

(202,105)

Net income

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

60,294

Attributable to:

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

Controlling Company

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

52,559

Non-controlling interest

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

7,735

60,294

Additional information per geographical area is disclosed below:

As of December 31

2023

2022

2021

Sales revenues from customers located in Argentina

    

1,921,148

    

2,118,721

    

2,394,743

Sales revenues from foreign customers

 

137,953

 

152,007

 

186,300

CAPEX corresponding to the segment “Services rendered in Argentina

 

448,920

 

356,784

 

476,746

CAPEX corresponding to the segment “Other abroad segments”

 

34,278

 

36,425

 

42,202

Fixed Assets corresponding to the segment “Services rendered in Argentina”

 

4,685,453

 

4,818,873

 

5,909,460

Fixed Assets corresponding to the segment “Other abroad segments”

 

252,467

 

180,124

 

203,866

Borrowings corresponding to the segment “Services rendered in Argentina”

 

2,072,486

 

1,423,516

 

1,573,539

Borrowings corresponding to the segment “Other abroad segments”

 

55,583

 

37,575

 

45,603

c)    Basis of Presentation

As required by the CNV, these consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards as issued by the IASB. IFRS Accounting Standards also includes the International Accounting Standards or “IAS”; the International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee or “IFRIC”, the Standard Interpretations Committee or “SIC” and the conceptual framework.

The preparation of these consolidated financial statements in conformity with IFRS Accounting Standards requires that the Company’s Management make estimates that affect the figures disclosed in the financial statements or its supplementary information. Actual results may differ from these estimates. The areas involving a higher degree of judgment or complexity, or areas where estimates are significant are disclosed under Note 3. u).

These consolidated financial statements are expressed in millions of Argentine pesos, are prepared in current currency as of December 31, 2023 (see item d), on an accrual basis of accounting (except for the consolidated statement of cash flows) and based on historical cost, except for certain financial assets and liabilities (includes DFI) that are measured at fair value.

F-19

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

These consolidated financial statements contain, additionally to all disclosures required under IFRS Accounting Standards, some disclosures required by the LGS and/or by the CNV.

The figures as of December 31, 2022 and for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, which are disclosed in these consolidated financial statements for comparative purposes, are a result of restating the financial statements as of such dates, according to what is described in point d). When applicable, certain reclassifications were made for comparative purposes.

These consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2023, were approved by resolution of the Board of Directors’ meeting held on March 11, 2024.

d)    Financial reporting in hyperinflationary economies

Since Argentina has been considered a high-inflation economy for accounting purposes in accordance with IAS 29 since July 1, 2018, the financial information expressed in Argentine pesos is restated in current currency of December 31, 2023.

The table below shows the evolution of the indexes in the last three years according to official statistics (INDEC) in accordance with Resolution No. 539/18 of the FACPCE and the devaluation of the Argentine peso against the US dollar for the same years:

    

As of December 31, 

    

As of December 31, 

    

As of December 31, 

 

2021

2022

2023

 

National Consumer Price Index (National CPI) (December 2016=100)

582.46

1,134.59

3,533.19

Variation in Prices

 

  

 

  

 

Annual

 

50.9

%  

94.8

%  

211.4

%

Banco Nación US$/$ exchange rate

102.72

177.16

808.45

Variation in the exchange rate

Annual

22.1

%  

72.5

%  

356.3

%

Below is a summary of the effect of applying IAS 29:

Restatement of the Statement of Financial Position and the Statement of Changes in Equity

The Company restated all the non-monetary items in current currency as of December 31, 2023. Each item must be restated since the date of the initial recognition or since the last revaluation. Monetary items have not been restated because they are stated in terms of the measuring unit current as of December 31, 2023.

Restatement of the Income Statement, the Statements of Comprehensive Income and the Statement of Cash Flows

In the Income Statement and the Statements of Comprehensive Income, items are restated in current currency as of December 31, 2023. The Company shall apply the monthly variations of CPI.

Financial results related to foreign currency exchange and accrued interest are determined in real terms, excluding the inflationary effect contained therein.

The effect of inflation on the monetary position is included in the Income Statement under Financial cost and Other financial results, net.

F-20

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

The items of the Statement of Cash Flows must also be restated in current currency at the closing date. The restatement effect has an impact on the Income Statement and must be eliminated from the Statement of Cash Flows because it is not considered cash or cash equivalent.

Investments in foreign companies

The subsidiaries that use functional currencies other than the Argentine peso (mainly foreign companies with economies that are not considered to be hyperinflationary), must not restate for inflation their financial statements, in accordance with IAS 29.

Notwithstanding, and only for reporting and consolidation purposes, the comparative figures presented in Argentine pesos in the Income Statement corresponding to the current year and the previous year must be stated using the exchange rates at the transaction date. In addition, the initial items of the Statement of Changes in Equity must be reported at the closing rate without modifying its total amount due to the fact that it is translated into the closing exchange rate, which implies that a translation adjustment is recognized against Retained Earnings and Other Comprehensive Income (loss).

NOTE 2 – Regulatory framework

a)    Regulatory Authority

Argentina

The Regulatory Authority for ICT Services, provided by the Company and certain subsidiaries, in Argentina is ENACOM.

In relation to Fintech Services, Micro Sistemas is registered as a PSP, as an Interoperable Digital Wallet and as Other Non-Financial Credit Provider, therefore it is subject to the oversight and certain regulations of the BCRA and the FIU for these types of operations. Micro Sistemas falls within the scope of the terms of Article 20 of Law No. 25,246 (as amended), which provides for the persons obliged to report to the FIU.

Foreign companies

The Regulatory Authority for ICT Services, provided by Núcleo and Tuves Paraguay in Paraguay is the CONATEL. Personal Envíos is under the oversight of the Central Bank of the Republic of Paraguay to operate as an Electronic Payment Company.

The Regulatory Authority for the services provided by Telecom USA, in USA, is the Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”).

The Regulatory Authority for the services provided by special purpose entities in Uruguay are under the orbit of URSEC.

b)    Licenses

Under the Licencia Única Argentina Digital, the Company currently provides the following services:

local fixed telephony,
public telephony,
domestic and international long-distance telephony,
domestic and international point-to-point link services,
value added, data transmission, videoconferencing, transportation of broadcasting signals, and Internet access,
STM, SRMC, PCS and SCMA, also called mobile communications services (“SCM”, for its Spanish acronym), Such licenses were granted for the provision of STM in the Northern Region of Argentina, of SRMC in the AMBA area, and of PCS and SCMA throughout the country,
SRS,
SRCE and
STeFI.

F-21

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Licenses held by subsidiaries in Paraguay are the following:

Núcleo holds a license to provide STMC and PCS. In addition, Núcleo holds a license for the installation and exploitation of Internet and data services throughout Paraguay. Additionally, on December 26, 2023, CONATEL approved the transfer of Tuves Paraguay´s license to provide DATDH services to Núcleo. This transfer is due to the corporate reorganization process described in Note 1.a). These licenses have been granted for renewable five-year periods.

c)    Main Regulatory issues – ICT Services

Among the main regulations that govern the services rendered by the Company, the following stand out:

LAD and its amendments.
Law No. 19,798 to the extent it does not contradict the LAD.
The Privatization Regulations, which regulated that process.
The Transfer Agreement.
The licenses for providing telecommunication services granted to the Company and the Bidding Terms and Conditions and their respective general rules.
Current service regulations. See the main regulations on Licenses, Interconnection, SU and Spectrum in sections d) and e) of this Note.

i)Decree No. 690/20 - Amendment to the LAD - Controversy

On August 22, 2020, PEN issued Decree No. 690/20 (“Decree No. 690/20”), which has been ratified by the Argentine Congress under Law No. 26,122 and has been regulated through ENACOM Resolutions No. 1,466/20 and 1,467/20, through which (among other issues):

declared ICT Services as well as access to telecommunications networks for and between licensees as “essential and strategic competition public services”, and empowered ENACOM to ensure accessibility;
established that the prices of: (i) the essential and strategic competition public ICT Services, (ii) the prices of those services provided in accordance with the Universal Service and (iii) the prices of those services determined by ENACOM for public interest reasons, shall be regulated by ENACOM;
ENACOM established the price and characteristics of each service of the ICT’s PBU;

The Company initiated legal proceedings before the Federal Court of Appeals on Administrative Litigation Matters challenging the constitutionality of Decree No. 690/20 and the aforementioned ENACOM Resolutions.

In this context, the Company sought to obtain a precautionary measure suspending the application of the aforementioned ENACOM regulations and Decree No. 690/20. On April 30, 2021, the Chamber of the Federal Court of Appeals on Administrative Litigation Matters decided by majority to grant the injunction requested, ordering the suspension of the effects of Decree No. 690/20 and of ENACOM resolutions provided as a consequence and their non-applicability to the Company. This preliminary injunction was initially granted for a period of six months and it has been extended for equal periods, the last extensions granted being on August 22, 2023 and February 20, 2024.

During 2022 and 2023, the Federal Administrative Court of Appeals – Chamber II confirmed the different resolutions of the court of first instance, the last confirmation being dated October 6, 2023, which ratifies the extension of the precautionary measure decreed on August 22, 2023.

During 2022 and 2023, the PEN and ENACOM filed extraordinary appeals against the rulings favorable to the Company, which were denied by the Chamber II of Federal Administrative Court of Appeals, and both the PEN and ENACOM filed appeals against the decisions, which, as of the date of issuance of these financial statements, are still pending. Additionaly, the extraordinary appeals against the decision dated October 6, 2023, is still being processed.

F-22

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

It should be noted, as background, that, the Supreme Court of Justice denied the appeals against the rulings issued by the Federal Administrative Litigation Chamber.

Consequently, the precautionary measure is fully in force as of the date of issuance of these consolidated financial statements, through extensions of six-months periods.

As supported by the preliminary injunctions granted, the Company, during the last three years, has increased the prices of its services in order to continue to match the increase in its costs due to the inflation.

Finally, in relation to the legal proceeding mentioned in the second paragraph, on November 17, 2023 Telecom was notified of the first instance ruling that resolves the nullity of Decree No. 690/20 and ENACOM Resolutions No. 1,466 and 1,467, both of 2020. Among the main arguments, and in order to resolve, the judge considered that the fact of establishing permanent measures through a Decree affects the principle of reasonableness between the purpose of the norm and the means used. By providing that private activity be removed from the private sector, it has an expropriation nature since acquired rights constitutionally protected by the guarantee of art. 17 of the National Constitution.

Likewise, it concluded that the increase in costs due to the implementation of the PBU, together with the price freeze provided for by the Decree, are burdensome measures for licensees and potentially harmful for users which, contrary to the purpose sought by the norm, would result in in lower investment and lower quality of service, violating constitutionally protected rights.

The Company, with the assistance of its legal advisors, is analyzing the actions that may be necessary in order to protect its rights. The Company’s Management and its legal advisors, consider that the Company has solid legal arguments to support its position and that there is a reasonable likelihood that this matter will result in a favorable outcome for the Company, notwithstanding the fact that at this stage it is not possible to predict the final outcome of the claim.

d)    General Regulation of the Universal Service (“RGSU” for its Spanish acronym)

ENACOM approved a new RGSU through Resolution No. 721/20 of September 3, 2020.

The new Regulation, although it maintains the obligation to contribute to the FFSU 1% of total revenues accrued for the provision of ICT Services net of its taxes and fees (included in “Taxes and fees with the Regulatory Authority” of the Statement of Income), among the most relevant matters, provides:

(i)that ENACOM may consider that the monthly obligation of the Contributors has been partially settled for up to 30% of their contributions, based on the reporting of computable investments made in projects approved by ENACOM;
(ii)that the licensees may submit projects to ENACOM for their review and assessment;
(iii)that the deployment of fixed Next Generation Networks (“NGN”) for the provision of broadband Internet services of the Projects shall not fall within the scope of the protection regulations applicable to such networks.

In addition, within the framework of the new RGSU, SU Programs have been approved providing for the deployment of fixed broadband, deployment of access networks to mobile communications services and services to public institutions, among others.

The physical link and radio-electric link subscription broadcasting services are not subject to the SU investment contribution until a law is passed that unifies the fee regime provided by the LSCA and LAD, so it will continue to be subject only to the fee regime provided under LSCA (included in “Taxes and Fees with the Regulatory Authority” of the Statement of Income). Therefore, they shall not be subject to the SU investment contribution or the payment of the Control, Oversight and Verification Fee provided under the LAD.

According to the provisions of SC Resolutions No. 80/07, No. 154/10 and CNC Resolution No. 2,713/07, this is the situation of the Company as of the date:

i)SU Fund - Impact on the Company with respect to its original license to provide SBT

Telecom filed its affidavits including the offset amounts related to the services that should be considered as SU services.

F-23

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

However, several years after the market’s liberalization and the effectiveness of the SU regulations and its amendments, incumbent operators have still not received any offsets for providing services with the characteristics set forth under the SU regime.

The Company has filed its monthly SU affidavits which result in a receivable. The programs and the valuation methodology used to estimate this receivable are pending of approval by the Regulatory Authority. This receivable has not yet been recorded in these consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2023 since it is subject to the approval of the SU Programs and the review of those affidavits by the Regulatory Authority and the confirmation of the existence of enough contributions to the SU Trust so as to compensate the incumbent operators.

Between years 2011 and 2012, the SC issued a serie of resolutions through which it notified the Company that investments associated with certain services and/or programs did not qualify as Initial SU Programs, and that, they did not constitute different services involving a SU provision, and therefore, cannot be financed with SU Funds.

The Company has filed appeals against the above-mentioned resolutions, presenting the legal arguments based on which such resolutions should be revoked.

In September 2012, the CNC ordered the Company to deposit approximately $208 million. The Company has filed a recourse refusing the CNC’s order on the grounds that the appeals against the SC Resolutions are still pending of resolution.

In November 2019, ENACOM notified that the appeals filed by the Company against the SC resolutions had been rejected, taking them to superior body for substantiation. As of the date of these consolidated financial statements, the appeal review body has not yet issued a decision.

While it cannot be assured that these issues will be favorably resolved at the administrative stage, the Company’s Management, with the assistance of its legal advisors, considers that has solid legal and de facto arguments to support the position of Telecom Argentina.

ii)

FFSU - Impact on the Company with respect to the SCM originally provided by Telecom Personal S.A.

In compliance with Resolutions, Personal has filed its affidavits since July 2007 and deposited the corresponding contributions.

On January 26, 2011, the SC issued Resolution No. 9/11 establishing that telecommunication service providers could only allocate to investment projects under this program the amounts corresponding to outstanding investment contribution obligations arising from Annex III of Decree No. 764/00 before the effective date of Decree No. 558/08.

In July 2012, the SC issued Resolution No. 50/12 pursuant to which it notified that the services declared by the SCM Providers as “High Cost Areas or services provided in non-profitable areas”, “services provided to clients with physical limitations (deaf-mute and blind people)”, “rural schools”, and requests relating to the installation of radio-bases and/or investment in infrastructure development in various localities, did not constitute items that could be discounted from the amount of SU contributions. It also provided that certain amounts already deducted could be used for investment projects within the framework of the Program created under SC Resolution No. 9/11, or deposited in the SU Fund, as applicable.

Personal filed an administrative appeal against SC requesting its nullity. As of the date of these consolidated financial statements, this appeal is still pending of resolution.

In October 2012, in response to the order issued by the SC, Personal deposited under protest the amount corresponding to the assessment of the SU services provided by Personal, reserving its right to take all actions it may deem appropriate to claim its reimbursement, as informed to the SC and the CNC. Since August 2012, Personal -and subsequent to the merger, the Company- is paying under protest of those concepts in its monthly affidavits. As of December 31, 2023, the Company has not recognized any credits related to these concepts.

While it cannot be assured that these issues will be favorably resolved at the administrative stage, the Company’s Management, with the assistance of its legal advisors, considers that has solid legal and de facto arguments to support the position of Telecom Argentina.

F-24

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

iii)

FFSU - Impact on the Company with respect to the services originally provided by Cablevisión

As of the date of these consolidated financial statements, the Regulatory Authority has not yet approved the Project filed by Cablevisión on June 21, 2011, within the framework of SC Resolution No. 9/11, in order to fulfill the SU contribution obligation for the amounts accrued since January 2001 until the effectiveness of Decree No. 558/08.

e)    Spectrum

In 2014, the Company was awarded Lots 2, 5, 6 and 8 and the remaining frequencies of the PCS and the SRMC, as well as those of the spectrum for the SCMA.

The use of the frequencies is granted for a period of 15 years counted from the notification of the administrative act of adjudication. In particular, for the spectrum of the SCMA, the term was counted as from February 27, 2018, in accordance with what is stated in Resolution No. 528/18.

Once the term of use granted for the different frequencies has expired, the Regulatory Authority may extend the validity at the express request of the successful bidder (which will be onerous and under the price and conditions established by it).

In relation to subscription broadcasting license (such as cable television) are considered, for all purposes, a Licencia Única Argentina Digital, with a registration for such service. The LAD establishes a 10-year extension starting in January 2016 for the use of spectrum frequencies for subscription broadcasting license holders via radio link.

i)

Spectrum incorporated to the Company under the corporate reorganizations of Telecom and the merger with Cablevisión

In December 2017, the Company was served with ENACOM Resolution No. 5,644-E/2017, whereby that agency decided, among other things, to authorize the transfer in favor of Telecom Argentina of the authorizations and permits to use frequencies and allocations of numbering and sign-posting resources to provide the services held by Cablevisión, pursuant to effective regulations, and the agreement executed by Nextel Communications Argentina S.R.L. on April 12, 2017 (IF-2017-08818737-APN-ENACOM#MCO).

Telecom Argentina shall, within a term of two years as from the date on which the merger with Cablevisión was approved by the CNDC and ENACOM, return the radio-electric spectrum that exceeds the limit set under Section 5 of Resolution No. 171-E/17 issued by the Ministry of Communications. For these purposes, 80 MHz exceeded the limit set.

During 2019, the Company proceeded with a partial return of the radio-electric spectrum (40 MHz), which was completed in March 2022 (40 MHz remaining).

On March 15, 2022, ENACOM issued Resolution No. 419/2022 through which it accepted the return of spectrum by Telecom Argentina under the terms of ENACOM Resolution No. 5644-E/2017.

The accounting treatment as of December 31, 2023 is detailed in Notes 3.m) and 10.

ii)

ENACOM Resolution No. 798/2022 – On-demand allocation of spectrum blocks

Through Resolution No. 798/2022, ENACOM began the process for the on-demand allocation of spectrum blocks of the 2500-2570 MHz and 2,620-2,690 MHz frequencies for the provision of SCMA services. Through said Resolution, ENACOM also approved the bidding terms and conditions and the list of locations for which there is spectrum available for the provision of SCMA services. Article 12 of the bidding term and condition allowed the return of portions of spectrum previously assigned as a means of payment for the assigned frequencies.

F-25

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Through Resolution No. 1,729/2022, ENACOM assigned to the Company the spectrum blocks requested and the return of the spectrum proposed by Telecom was accepted as part of payment.

iii)STeFI - 5G spectrum allocation

Through Resolution No. 1,289/2023, published in the Official Gazette on August 29, 2023, ENACOM’s Board allocated the frequency band between 3,600 and 3,700 MHz to the Fixed Service and to the Land Mobile Service, both with primary status, and established its use in time-division duplex (TDD) mode for the provision of STeFI on the use of Fifth Generation (5G) technology in the country, regulated by ENACOM Resolution No. 2,385/2022, whose objective was to establish the conditions of the service, the essential benefits and the minimum technological guidelines that guarantee its quality and efficiency.

Through Resolution No. 1,285/2023, published on the same date, ENACOM authorized the call for bids for the allocation of frequency bands for the provision of STeFI and approved the General and Particular Bidding Terms and Conditions for the Allocation of Frequency Bands from 3,300 to 3,600 MHz (“Bid Form”), divided into three lots of 100 MHz each. The base price for each lot was set at US$350 million.

On October 24, 2023, the Auction was held for the above-mentioned Bid, where Telecom was awarded Lot 2 (3,400-3,500 MHz Band), equivalent to US$350 million, which was paid during November 2023.

The award of the right to use the frequency band implied the capitalization as intangible assets of $173,373 million (in current currency as of December 2023), which are amortized as described in Note 3.i).

f)    ENACOM intervention

Decree No. 89/2014, issued on January 26, 2024, ordered the intervention of the ENACOM for a period of 180 consecutive days, which may be extended only once.

The Decree stipulates that the interveners shall conduct a special analysis of the implications arising from the issuance of Decree No. 690/2020 and the administrative acts issued for its implementation. They shall also conduct a survey of the organizational structure of the ENACOM, seek simplification in administrative processes, determine and redefine the programs and scopes of projects regarding the SU Fund, among other tasks.

g)    Main Regulatory issues – Fintech Services

Foreign companies

Personal Envíos is authorized by the Central Bank of the Republic of Paraguay to operate as an Electronic Payment Company (“EMPE”, for its Spanish acronym) through Resolution No. 6 issued on March 30, 2015, and its corporate purpose is restricted to such service.

F-26

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Argentina

Micro Sistemas is registered as a PSP that offer payment accounts.

In August, 2022, Micro Sistemas was registered in the Registry of Interoperable Digital Wallets, from thereon, must comply with the regime provided, which includes, but is not limited to, the provisions of Communication “A” 7,462, the provisions of the Transfers 3.0 scheme designated by the BCRA in the terms of Communication “A” 7,153 and its amendments, or those that modify, complement or replace it in the future.

During the first quarter of 2023, Micro Sistemas was registered in the Registry of Other Non-Financial Credit Providers, belonging to the SEFyC. From thereon, Micro Sistemas must comply with the regulatory regime provided for Non-Financial Credit Providers.

Additionally, Micro Sistemas must comply with the provisions of the ordered text on the Protection of Users of Financial Services, and its complementary regulations issued by the BCRA.

i)

Communications issued by the BCRA

During the last years, the BCRA issued several Communications, whereby, among other things, it established the same rules for legal entities that, without being financial entities, serve the function in the provision of payment services, and therefore, compete.

The most important provisions of the effective legislation are detailed below:

a)Offering of Accounts and Funds Management: PSPs can offer the necessary accounts for debits and credits within the payment scheme. The accounts offered by PSPs are called payment accounts. Payment accounts are unrestricted accounts offered by PSPs to their customers to order and/or receive payments.

Customer funds credited to the payment accounts offered by PSPs must be available at all times (immediately upon demand by the customer) for an amount at least equivalent to that credited to the payment account. To this end, the systems implemented by PSPs must be able to identify and individualize the funds of each customer.

The customers’ funds must be deposited in checking accounts in pesos held with Argentine financial institutions. The remuneration they receive for the balances in said accounts must be fully transferred to their customers.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, at the express request of the customer, the funds credited to payment accounts can be applied to investments in ‘mutual funds’ in Argentina. Such funds shall be debited from the relevant payment account, in which case the amounts invested in mutual funds must be reported separately from the balance of the payment account.

For transactions on their own account (payment to suppliers, payment of salaries, etc.), PSPs must use an ‘operational’ bank account (unrestricted) separate from the bank account in which the PSP customers’ funds are deposited.

The balances in Argentine pesos of the PSP deposit accounts in which their customers’ funds are deposited will be subject to the minimum cash reserve rate of 100%.

b)Oversight and Reporting Regime: PSPs shall comply with the reporting regime provided for in different communications issued by the BCRA and give access to their facilities and documentation to SEFyC’s personnel designated for this purpose, and make available to the BCRA tools for real-time inquiries and reporting that the Deputy General Manager of Payment Methods may determine for each type of supplier according to its volume of operations.

F-27

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

c)Transparency Advertisements made through any media and any documentation issued by PSPs must clearly and expressly state that: a) they only offer payment services and are not authorized by the BCRA to operate as financial entities, and b) funds deposited in payment accounts do not constitute deposits in a financial institution, nor do they have any of the guarantees that such deposits may enjoy in accordance with applicable laws and regulations regarding deposits in financial institutions.
d)Transfers of funds sent and received in payment accounts: PSPs must comply with the obligations set out in the “National Payment System - Transfers Rules.” and “National Payment System – Transfers – Supplementary Rules”.

NOTE 3 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Detailed below are the most relevant accounting policies used by the Company for the preparation of these consolidated financial statements, which have been applied uniformly with respect to comparative years.

a)    Going Concern

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis as there is a reasonable expectation that Telecom Argentina and its subsidiaries will continue its operational activities in the foreseeable future (and in any event with a time horizon of more than twelve months).

b)    Foreign Currency Translation

Items included in the financial statements of each of Company’s subsidiaries are measured using the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity operates (“the functional currency”). The consolidated financial statements are presented in Argentine pesos, which is the functional currency of all Company’s subsidiaries located in Argentina. The functional currency for the Company’s foreign subsidiaries is the respective legal currency of each country, except for Opalker and its subsidiary Ubiquo, whose functional currency is the US dollar and are located in Uruguay and Chile, respectively.

The assets and liabilities of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries are translated using the exchange rates in effect at the reporting date, while income and expenses are translated at the average exchange rates for the year. Translation differences resulting from the application of this method are recognized under Other Comprehensive Income. The cash flows of foreign consolidated subsidiaries expressed in foreign currencies included in the consolidated financial statements are translated at the average exchange rates for each year.

c)    Foreign Currency Transactions

Transactions in foreign currencies are translated into the functional currency using the foreign exchange rate prevailing at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into the functional currency at the foreign exchange rate prevailing at the reporting date. Exchange differences are recognized in real terms, as described in Note 1.d), and included in the consolidated income statement in the items“Foreign currency exchange gains (losses) on borrowings “ and “Other foreign currency exchange gains (losses)” within the line items “Financial costs” and “Other financial results, net”, respectively.

F-28

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

d)    Principles of consolidation and equity method

d.1) Subsidiaries

Subsidiaries are all entities (including structured entities) over which the Company has control. The Company controls an entity where the Company is exposed to, or has rights to, variable returns from its involvement with the entity and has the ability to affect those returns through its power to direct the activities of the entity. Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date on which control is transferred to the Company. They are deconsolidated from the date that control ceases.

The acquisition method of accounting is used to account for business combinations by the Company (see item d.7) to this Note).

Non-controlling interests in the results and equity of subsidiaries are shown separately in the consolidated statement of profit or loss, statement of comprehensive income, statement of changes in equity and statement of financial position respectively.

Inter-company transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactions between Telecom and its subsidiaries are eliminated.

The subsidiaries’ financial statements cover the same periods and are prepared as of the same closing date and in accordance with the same accounting policies as those of the Company.

Note 1.a) details the subsidiaries, together with the interest percentages held directly or indirectly in each subsidiary’s capital stock and votes, main activity and country of origin as of December 31, 2023.

d.2) Transactions with non-controlling interests

The Company considers any transactions executed with non-controlling shareholders that do not result in a loss of control, as transactions among shareholders. A change in the equity interests held by the Company is considered as an adjustment in the book value of controlling interests and non-controlling interests to reflect the changes in its relative interests. The differences between the amount for which non-controlling interests are adjusted and the fair value of the consideration paid or received and attributed to the shareholders of the controlling company will be directly recognized in “Other comprehensive income (loss)” in the equity attributed to the parent company.

d.3) Investments in Associates

Associates are all entities over which the Company has significant influence but not control or joint control. This is generally the case where the group holds between 20% and 50% of the voting rights.

Investments in associates are accounted for using the equity method (see item d.5) to this Note), after initially being recognised at cost.

Note 4.a) details the investments in associates, together with the interest percentages held directly or indirectly in each company’s capital stock and votes, main activity and country of origin as of December 31, 2023.

d.3.1) Investment in TSMA

The Company holds 50.1% of the voting rights of TSMA, while the other shareholder holds the remaining 49.9%. The parties signed a shareholder’s agreement (“Agreement”) that establishes, among other things, the rights and obligations of both parties in relation to their participation in such company. Pursuant to the Agreement, the other shareholder operates and manages the business, and Telecom mainly provides advise on commercial issues.

Although the Company has 50.1% of the voting rights and is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the TSMA’s business, based on its participation, Telecom does not have the ability to affect those returns through its power over the investee, as its decision-making power is limited by the Agreement. Consequently, the Company does not have control or substantive power, in accordance with the requirements of IFRS 10 “Consolidated Financial Statements”, so it has significant influence over TSMA and therefore classifies its participation as “Investment in associates.”

F-29

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

d.4) Joint arrangements

Under IFRS 11 “Joint Arrangements” investments in joint arrangements are classified as either joint operations or joint ventures. The classification depends on the contractual rights and obligations of each investor.

d.4.1) Joint operation

The Company, in relation to its participation in a joint operation, recognises its direct right to the assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses of joint operations and its share of any jointly held or incurred assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses.

Telecom held a 50% share in the UTE Ertach – Telecom Argentina (“UTE”), which was engaged in the provision of data transmission services and the order channels required to integrate the public administration agencies of the Province of Buenos Aires and the municipal agencies in a single provincial data communication network.

On July 27, 2022, the Under-Secretariat of Digital Government, which is under jurisdiction of the Ministry of the Chief of Cabinet of the Province of Buenos Aires, informed the UTE of the termination of the agreement and, having been approved by the Ministry of the Chief of Cabinet of the Province of Buenos Aires through resolution RESO-2023-1932-GDEBA-MJGM dated May 12, 2023, in August 2023, the members of the UTE orchestrated its dissolution, its consequent cancellation of registration before the IGJ and the appointment of liquidators. On November 30, 2023, the liquidators approved the final liquidation and the registry cancellation of the UTE contract which was registered in the IGJ on February 1, 2024.

d.4.2) Joint venture

Interests in joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method, after initially being recognized at cost in the consolidated statement of financial position.

During April 2023, the Company has acquired a 50% shareholding in OPH. For further information, see Note 4.b) and Note 28.

d.5) Equity method

Under the equity method of accounting, the investments are initially recognised at cost and adjusted thereafter to recognise the Company’s share of the post-acquisition profits or losses of the investee in profit or loss, and the Company’s share of movements in other comprehensive income of the investee in other comprehensive income. Dividends received or receivable from associates and joint ventures are recognised as a reduction in the carrying amount of the investment.

The Company’s investment in associates includes the goodwill identified at the time of the acquisition, net of any impairment losses. For more information on impairment of Fixed Assets, see item m) to this Note.

Unrealised gains on transactions between the Company and its associates and joint ventures are eliminated to the extent of the group’s interest in these entities.

The associates’ and joint ventures´ financial statements cover the same periods and are prepared as of the same closing date as those of the Company’s. Adjustments were made, where necessary, to the associates’ extra-accounting information so that their accounting policies are in line with those used by the Company.

F-30

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

d.4) Consolidation of structured entities

The Company, through one of its subsidiaries located in Uruguay, has executed certain agreements with other companies for the purpose of rendering on behalf of and by order of such companies’ certain installation services, collections, administration of subscribers, marketing and technical assistance, financial and general business advising, with respect to cable television services in Uruguay. In accordance with IFRS 10, these consolidated financial statements include the assets, liabilities and results of these companies. Since the Company does not hold an equity interest in these companies, the offsetting entry of the net effect of the consolidation of the assets, liabilities and results of these companies is disclosed under the line items “Equity attributable to non-controlling interests” and “Net Income attributable to non-controlling interests”.

d.5) Business Combinations

The Company applies the acquisition method of accounting for business combinations. The consideration for each acquisition is measured at fair value of the assets given (acquisition cost).

The identifiable assets and the liabilities assumed of the acquired company that meet the conditions for recognition under IFRS 3 are recognized at fair value at the acquisition date, except for certain particular cases provided by such standard.

Any excess between: a) the sum of the consideration transferred, plus non-controlling interests (valued at fair value or at their proportional participation on identifiable net assets), plus acquisitiondate fair value of the acquirer’s previously held equity interest in the acquire (if any) and b) the net of the acquisitiondate amounts of the identifiable assets acquired and the liabilities assumed determined on the acquisition date, is recognized as goodwill. Otherwise, the gain is immediately recognized in the income statement.

Acquisition direct cost are recognized in the Income Statements when they are incurred.

For more details on the acquisitions made by the Company and its subsidiaries, see Notes 1.a) and 28.

e)    Revenues

Revenues are recognized (net of discounts and returns) to the extent the sales agreement has commercial substance, provided it is considered probable that economic benefits will flow to the Company and their amount can be measured reliably.

The Company discloses its revenues into two large groups: services and equipment. Revenues from sales of services are recognized at the time services are rendered to the customers. Revenues from sales of equipment are recognized at the point in time when the control is transferred and the performance obligation is performed.

The main performance obligations of Telecom and its subsidiaries are:

-

Mobile Services: include mainly consist of monthly basic fees, revenues on prepaid calling cards and online recharges, airtime usage charges, roaming and interconnection charges, VAS charges, and other services. Telecom provides mobile services in Argentina and Paraguay.

-

Internet Services: include mainly consist of fixed monthly fees received from residential and corporate customers (mainly high-speed subscriptions – broadband and non-dedicated internet-). Telecom provides internet services in Argentina and Paraguay.

-

Cable Television Services: include mainly consist of monthly fees and certain variable consumption fees related to on demand services. Telecom provides cable television services in Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay.

F-31

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

-

Fixed and Data Services: include mainly consist of voice services monthly fees, measured service and monthly fees for additional services (among them, call waiting, itemized billing and voicemail), interconnection services, capacity leases and data transmission services for companies (among others; private networks, dedicated lines, broadcasting signal transport, cybersecurity and IOT solution – internet of things –). Telecom provides fixed and Data services in Argentina, USA, Uruguay, Paraguay and Chile.

-

Other Services Revenues: include mainly revenues from billing remuneration and collection management on behalf of third parties, revenues related to fintech services, administrative revenues and revenues from the sale of advertising space, among others.

Revenues from transactions that include more than one item have been recognized separately to the extent they have commercial substance on their own. In those cases, in which payment is deferred in time, such as construction contracts, the effect of the time value of money must be accounted for. Non-refundable up-front connection fees (one-time revenues), generated at the beginning of the relationship with the customers, are deferred and charged to income over the term of the contract or, in the case of indefinite period contracts, over the average period of the customer relationship.

Monthly fees paid in advance are disclosed net of trade receivables until the service is rendered.

Revenues on construction contracts are recognized based on the stage of completion (percentage of completion method). Such method provides an accurate representation of the transfer of goods in construction contracts because revenues are recognized based on the progress of the construction. When the outcome of a construction contract can be estimated reliably, the revenues and costs associated with the construction contract are recognized as revenues and expenses respectively by reference to the stage of completion of the contract activity at the end of the reporting period. When it is probable that total contract costs will exceed total contract revenues, the expected losses are immediately recognized as expenses.

As of December 31, 2023, the Company has not recognized income from construction contracts. However, on December 31, 2022 and 2021 the Company recognized revenues from construction contracts in the amount of $6,032 million and $4,167, respectively.

f)    Financial Instruments

At initial recognition, the Company measures financial assets and liabilities at its fair value.In the case of a financial asset, not at fair value through profit or loss (FVPL), transaction costs that are directly attributable to its acquisition or issuance will be added or removed.

f.1) Financial Assets

Classification and measurement

The Company classifies its financial assets other than DFI in the following measurement categories:

-Amortised cost: Assets that are held for collection of contractual cash flows, where those cashflows represent solely payments of principal and interest, are measured at amortised cost.

-Fair value: Assets that do not meet the criteria for amortised cost are measured at fair value (either through OCI or through profit or loss).

The classification depends on the entity’s business model for managing the financial assets and the contractual terms of the cash flows. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company only maintains financial assets measured at amortised cost and financial assets measured fair value through profit or loss.

Interest income and expenses from financial assets at amortised cost is included in “Other interest, net” within “Other financial results, net” using the effective interest rate method. Any gain or loss from financial assets at fair value is recognised in profit or loss and presented net in “Fair value gains/(losses) on financial assets at fair value through profit or loss” within “Other financial results, net” in the period in which it arises.

F-32

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

The Company reclassifies debt investments only when its business model for managing those assets changes.

Financial assets, excluding DFI, include:

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash equivalents are short-term and highly liquid investments that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash, subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value and their original maturity or the remaining maturity at the date of purchase does not exceed three months. Cash and cash equivalents are recorded according to their nature, at fair value or amortized cost.

The Company applies the indirect method to reconcile the net income for the year with the cash flows generated by its operations.

Bank overdrafts are disclosed in the consolidated statement of financial position as current borrowings and in the cash flow statements as financing activities of Telecom and its subsidiaries, because they are part of the short-term financial structure.

Trade and Other Receivables

Trade and other receivables, except for guarantee of financial operations and certain indemnification assets, are initially recognized at fair value and subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method, less allowances for doubtful accounts.

Sometimes, mobile telephony customer pays for the handset the price net of the discount. Such discount is allocated between handset sale revenues and service revenues, generating, initially, the recognition of a contractual asset. Contractual assets are initially recognized at fair value and subsequently measured at amortized cost, less allowances for bad debts, if any.

Guarantee of financial operations are recognized at fair value.

In relation to the call option included in other receivables:

-

As of December 31, 2022, the subsidiary Micro Sistemas maintained a call option rights receivable for shares of Open Pass. The call options could be exercised by Micro Sistemas, at its sole discretion, until April 30, 2023. In April, 2023, Micro Sistemas assigned to the Company the call option rights receivable, in accordance to what is explained in Note 28.

-

As of December 31, 2023, our subsidiary Televisión Dirigida entered into two call option agreements with the shareholder of Naperville Investments LLC and Saturn Holding LLC (companies incorporated in the state of Delaware, USA), for 100% of their equity interests and votingl rights. These companies have a shareholding that represents approximately 76.63% and 23.37%, respectively, of the share capital and voting rights of Manda S.A. (company incorporated in Argentina). Additionally, Televisión Dirigida entered into one call option agreement with the minority shareholders of Manda S.A for 100% of their equity interests and voting rights in such company, which represent 0.0037%.

The agreed prices amount to an aggregate of approximately US$42 million, of which Televisión Dirigida paid an option premium of US$5 million ($4,033 million as of December 31, 2023). The call options expire on June 30, 2024, but their expiration may be extended until June 30, 2025.

Investments

Governments bonds include the Bonds issued by National, Provincial and Municipal Governments. Depending on the business model adopted by Management, securities and bonds may be valued at amortized cost or at fair value.

Investments in mutual funds are carried at fair value.

The share in the trust “2003 Telecommunications Fund” was recognized at fair value.

F-33

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Impairment of Financial Assets

At the time of initial recognition of financial assets (and at each closing), the Company estimates the expected losses, with an early recognition of a provision, pursuant to IFRS 9.

Regarding trade receivables, and using the simplified approach provided by such standard, the Company measures the allowance for doubtful accounts for an amount equal to the lifetime expected credit losses.

The expected losses to be recognized are calculated based on a percentage of un-collectability per maturity ranges of each financial asset. For such purposes, the Company analyzes the performance of the financial assets grouped by type of market. Such historical percentage must contemplate the future collectability expectations regarding those financial assets and, therefore, those estimated changes in performance.

Derecognition of Financial Assets

The Company derecognizes a financial asset when the contractual rights to the cash flows of such assets expire or when it transfers the financial asset and, therefore, all the risks and benefits inherent to the ownership of the financial asset are transferred to another entity.

f.2) Financial Liabilities

Classification and measurement

Financial liabilities comprise trade payables, borrowings, leases liabilities and certain Other liabilities.

Financial liabilities (except for DFI and the debt for acquisition of NYSSA) are initially recognized at fair value and subsequently measured, generally, at amortized cost.

Borrowings

Any difference between the proceeds (net of transaction costs) and the redemption amount is recognised in profit or loss over the period of the borrowings using the effective interest method.

In case of loan exchange, the Company analyzes whether the modifications therein are substantial or not, in order to define whether it is a cancellation or modification, respectively, of the original liability. If the analysis results in a cancellation, a new liability is recognized. The results generated by the renegotiation of loans are included in the line “Borrowings renegotiation results” within “Financial costs”.

Other liabilities

Below are some particular issues regarding certain financial liabilities included in Other liabilities.

Funds to be paid to customers correspond to the amounts owed to users of the digital wallet, held by the subsidiary Micro Sistemas. These funds are held in the user’s payment account until the user requests withdrawal.

The debt for acquisition of NYSSA was recognized at fair value, considering that, according to its contractual terms, the payments will be in Argentine pesos determined based on the variation between the quotation values of certain public securities in foreign currency and Argentine pesos established in the contracts. The effects of the variation in its fair value will be recognize in “Financial discounts on assets, debts and others” within “Other financial results, net”.

F-34

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Derecognition of Financial Liabilities

The Company derecognize a financial liability (or part of it) when it has been extinguished, i.e., when the obligation specified in the corresponding agreement is discharged, repaid or expires.

f.3) Derivatives

Derivatives are recognised at fair value on the date a derivative contract is entered into, and they are subsequently remeasured to their fair value at the end of each reporting period. The accounting for subsequent changes in fair value depends on whether the derivative is designated as a hedging instrument and, if so, the nature of the item being hedged.  

Derivatives are used by Telecom and its subsidiaries to manage their exposure to exchange rate and interest rate risks.

At inception of the hedge relationship, the Company documents the economic relationship between hedging instruments and hedged items, including whether changes in the cash flows of the hedging instruments are expected to offset changes in the cash flows of hedged items. The Company documents its risk management objective and strategy for undertaking its hedge transactions.

DFIs are classified as a non-current asset or liability when the remaining maturity of the hedged item is more than 12 months. They are classified as a current asset or liability when the remaining maturity of the hedged item is less than 12 months.

The effective portion of changes in the fair value of DFI that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges is recognised in OCI. The gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognised immediately in profit or loss, within “Financial costs”. When a hedge no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, gains or losses are immediately reclassified to profit or loss.

Changes in the fair value of DFI that do not meet the criteria for hedge accounting, are recorded in profit or loss.

If the hedged item is a prospective transaction that results in the recognition of a non-financial asset or liability or a firm commitment, the cumulative gain or loss that was initially recognized in OCI is reclassified to the carrying amount of such asset or liability.

For additional information about derivatives instruments, see Note 22.c).

g)    Inventories

Inventories are measured at the lower of the restated for inflation cost and net realizable value. The cost is determined under the weighted average price method. The net realizable value represents the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business less the applicable variable sale costs.

The estimate of the Allowance for obsolescence of inventories is determined for those assets that, at year end, due to the advancement of technology and/or slow rotation, have lost their value.

The value of inventories does not exceed its recoverable value at the end of the year.

h)    PP&E

PP&E is measured at acquisition and/or construction cost restated for inflation less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. Acquisition cost includes expenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition of the items.

Subsequent costs are included in the asset’s carrying amount or recognised as a separate asset, as appropriate, only when it is probable that future economic benefits associated with the item will flow to the Company and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. The carrying amount of any component accounted for as a separate asset is derecognised when replaced. All other repairs and maintenance are charged to profit or loss during the reporting period in which they are incurred.

F-35

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing proceeds with carrying amount. These are included in profit or loss within “Other operating expenses”.

Depreciation of PP&E is calculated on a straight-line basis over the ranges of estimated useful lives of each class of assets. The ranges of the estimated useful lives of the main classes of PP&E are the following:

    

Estimated Useful Life (in years)

Real Estate

 

5 - 50

Fixed Network and Transportation

4 - 20

Mobile Network Access

 

37

Tower and Pole

 

1020

Switching Equipment

 

27

Computer Equipment

 

35

Vehicles

 

5

Goods lent to customers at no cost

 

24

Power Equipment and Installations

 

212

Machinery, diverse equipment and tools

 

510

The assets’ residual values and useful lives are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at the end of each reporting period.

i)    Intangible Assets

Intangible assets are valued at their restated for inflation cost, less accumulated amortization (in the case of intangible assets with a finite useful life) and impairment losses, if any.

Intangible assets comprise the following:

- Incremental Costs from the Acquisition of Contracts: These costs are capitalized as intangible assets to the extent the conditions for the recognition of an intangible asset are met, i.e., provided the Company expects to recover those costs and provided they are costs that the Company would not have incurred if the contract had not been successfully obtained. Such assets will be amortized under the straight-line method over the contractual relationship of the related transferred service.

- Licenses

a.

5G licenses: Includes the assignment of 5G spectrum of the frequency bands (3,400-3,500 MHz) assigned to the Company based on what is described in Note 2.e.iii).

b.

3G/4G licenses: Includes the 3G and 4G frequency bands assigned to the Company.

c.

Núcleo´s licenses: Includes PCS licenses, for spectrum in the 700 MHz band and internet and data transmission licenses.

d.

PCS and SRCE licenses (Argentina), for which the Company’s Management has considered that the licenses have an indefinite useful life because there is no foreseeable limit to the period over which the asset is expected to generate net cash inflows for the Company. Therefore, these licenses are subject to a recoverability assessment, at least on an annual basis.

The Company’s management has concluded that the licenses described in a), b) and c) have a finite useful life.

- Customer Relationship: Customer relationship comprises contracts with Telecom’s customers that were incorporated as a result of the merger between Telecom and Cablevisión, as well as those customer contracts identified as a result of the NYSSA acquisition. They are amortized over the estimated term of the relationship with the acquired customers.

- Brands: It includes the brands Telecom and Personal, which were recognized as a result of the merger between Telecom and Cablevisión. Also, it includes the brand Foptik Internet by fiber optics, incorporated as a result of the acquisition of NYSSA.

These brands are not amortized because they are considered to have an indefinite useful life, and, therefore, are subject to evaluation of their recoverability at least annually.

F-36

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Lastly, it includes the brand Flow, which is fully amortized and the Cablevisión and Arnet brands, which are fully provisioned for due to discontinuity in use.

- Content activation: The Company capitalizes payments made for the acquisition of audiovisual content licenses and payments made for co-production of content, which includes direct costs and general production expenses, until the content is made available.

- Internally generated software: Includes the mobile app of the digital wallet, such as software developed internally that meets the capitalization criteria established in IAS 38

Development costs that are directly attributable to the design and testing of identifiable and unique software products controlled by the Company are recognised as intangible assets where the following criteria are met: a) it is technically feasible to complete the software so that it will be available for use; b) management intends to complete the software and use or sell it; c) there is an ability to use or sell the software; d) it can be demonstrated how the software will generate probable future economic benefits; e) adequate technical, financial and other resources to complete the development and to use or sell the software are available; and f) the expenditure attributable to the software during its development can be reliably measured.

Capitalised development costs (including personnel costs) are recorded as intangible assets and amortised from the point at which the asset is ready for use. Costs associated with maintaining software programs are recognised as an expense as incurred.

- Other: Included exclusivity rights and software rights of use, among others.

Depreciation of intangible assets is calculated on a straight-line basis over the ranges of estimated useful lives of each class of assets. The ranges of the estimated useful lives of the main classes of intangible assets are the following:

Estimated useful lives (years)

5G licenses

20

3G/4G licenses

 

15

Núcleo´s licenses

 

5-10

Customer Relationship

 

5-14

Incremental Costs from the Acquisition of Contracts

 

2

Content activation

 

2

Internally generated software

 

5-10

Other

 

2-28

Exchange of non-monetary assets

In accordance with IAS 38, to recognize an intangible asset through an exchange, it must have commercial substance. In that case, the cost of the intangible asset received will be measured at its fair value.

In relation to the spectrum assignment and return process (see Note 2.e.ii), it is framed within the guidelines of IAS 38 in relation to the exchange of non-monetary assets, since the exchange of assets has commercial substance, for which the cost of the intangible asset received will be measured at fair value. The fair value of the assigned spectrum has been set by ENACOM at US$6.2 million, while the price of the spectrum to be returned was set by ENACOM at US$5.7 million. Therefore, the difference to be paid by the Company amounted to US$0.5 million. As of December 31, 2023, the difference between the book value and the fair value of the returned spectrum resulted in a net gain of $1,280 million, recognized as “Other operating expenses”.

j)    Assets classified as held for sale

According to IFRS 5, non-current assets are classified as held for sale if their carrying amount will be recovered principally through a sale transaction rather than through continuing use and a sale is considered highly probable. They are measured at the lower of their carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell, except for certain exceptions.

F-37

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

An impairment loss is recognised for any initial or subsequent write-down of the asset to fair value less costs to sell. A gain is recognised for any subsequent increases in fair value less costs to sell of an asset, but not in excess of any cumulative impairment loss previously recognised. A gain or loss not previously recognised by the date of the sale of the noncurrent asset is recognised at the date of derecognition.

Non-current assets are not depreciated or amortised while they are classified as held for sale, and are presented separately from the other assets in statements of financial position.

Sale of the property “Costanera”

On March 21, 2022, the Company executed a pre-sale agreement for its building “Costanera” located in the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, Argentina, for a total of US$6 million.

On April 27, 2022, the Company’s Board of Directors approved the proposal for the sale of the building. Subsequently, on June 6, 2022, an agreement was executed for the sale whereby the granting of the corresponding conveyance deed for the ownership and possession of property is subject to the condition that the Company shall obtain ENACOM’s authorization for the sale of the property.

As of December 31, 2022, the Company received an advance payment of US$2 million (equivalent to $1,090 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023).

On October 30, 2023, the deed was signed, and possession of the building was delivered for a total of US$6 million (equivalent to $2,741 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023), net of transaction costs.

During November 2023, the Company collected US$1.35 million, and the remaining balance will be collected in two installments of US$1.15 million and US$1.5 million in January 2024 and 2025, respectively. As of the date of these financial statements, the Company collected the US$1.5 million installment of January 2024.

Finally, considering that the carrying amount of the assets associated with the sale exceeded its recoverable value, which has been calculated based on fair value less costs of disposal (classified as level 1 in the fair value hierarchy), the Company, as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, recognized an impairment of $138 million and $5,527 million, respectively, recorded under Depreciation, Amortization and Impairment of Fixed Assets.

As of December 31, 2023, the Company has no Assets classified as held for sale.

k)    Right of use assets and lease liabilities

Telecom maintains several contracts that fall under the definition of leases in accordance with IFRS 16, which can be summarized as follows: a) sites leases (for antenna placement); b) real estate leases (for commercial offices and others); c) poles leases (for wiring layout); d) dark fiber rights of use (for data transmission) and e) space leases (for localization of own antennas).

Right of use assets are measured at restated for inflation cost comprising the amount of the initial measurement of lease liability, any lease payments made at or before the commencement date less any lease incentives received, any initial direct costs, and restoration costs.

The average useful life is estimated at 1-6 years and the amortization of the right-of-use assets is calculated on a straight-line basis over the lease term of each agreement, except in those cases where the Company will exercise a call option, which will be amortized according to the useful life of the asset.

Liabilities arising from a lease are initially measured on a present value basis using discount rates on average amounting to: 9.08% (real discount rates in Argentine pesos), 8.22% (in Guaraníes) and 9.34% (in US dollars).

F-38

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Lease liabilities include the net present value of the fixed payments (including in-substance fixed payments), less any lease incentives receivable, the variable lease payments that are based on an index or a rate, initially measured using the index or rate as at the commencement date, the amounts expected to be payable by the Company under residual value guarantees, the exercise price of a purchase option if the Company is reasonably certain to exercise that option, and the payments of penalties for terminating the lease, if the lease term reflects the Company exercising that option.

The financial results generated by lease liabilities (interest and exchange differences) are included in “Other foreign currency exchange gains (losses)” and “Other interests, net” within “Other financial results, net.

Finally, the Company is exposed to potential future increases in variable lease payments based on an index or rate, which are not included in the lease liability until they take effect. When adjustments to lease payments based on an index or rate take effect, the lease liability is reassessed and adjusted against the right-of-use asset.

l)    Goodwill

Goodwill is measured as described in item d.7) of this Note. Goodwill has indefinite useful life and its recoverable value must be assessed at least once a year.

m)    Impairment of Fixed Assets

The Company assesses whether there are any indicators of impairment in the value of the assets that are subject to amortization, contemplating both internal and external factors.

Intangible assets with an indefinite useful life and goodwill are not subject to amortization and are tested for impairment at least annually, at closing date of every year, or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that they might be impaired.

The carrying value of an asset is considered impaired by the Company when it is higher than its recoverable value, which is the higher of the fair value (less direct selling costs) and its value in use. In this case, a loss shall be immediately recognized in the consolidated statement of income.

To assess impairment losses, the Company groups the assets into cash-generating units (CGU), which represent the smallest group of assets that generates independent cash inflows of the cash flows derived from other assets or groups of assets. The Company has defined, according to the characteristics of the services provided and its Fixed Assets that the operations carried out by the Company and its subsidiaries in Argentina comprise a single CGU (CGU of Telecom) and each foreign subsidiary and associate represent a separate CGU. According to this, the net book value of a CGU includes goodwill, intangible assets with an indefinite useful life and assets with a defined useful life.

The table below shows the impairment recognized by concept as of December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:

As of December 31,

2023

2022

2021

Gain (loss)

Return of radioelectric spectrum (See Note 2.e.i)

    

    

(8,330)

    

Brands Cablevisión and Fibertel (a)

 

 

 

(2,719)

Assets classified as held for sale (See Note 3.j)

 

(138)

 

(5,527)

 

Telecom Goodwill (See Note 3.u.1)

 

 

(759,523)

 

Goodwill allocated to subsidiaries

 

 

(199)

 

(4,045)

Others (b)

 

(176)

 

7,096

 

(1,024)

Total

 

(314)

 

(766,483)

 

(7,788)

a)Impairment recognized as a result of the Company’s decision to discontinue the use of those brands, unifying all the customers of those services under the brands Flow and Personal in order to simplify the brand portfolio and to consolidate a new visual identity as an institution itself and of its products and services.
b)In 2022, it includes recovery of provisions for $6,773 million related to works in progress that were completed during that fiscal year.

F-39

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Except for the above mentioned, no other significant impairments have been identified as a result of the evaluation realized.

The possible reversal of PP&E, intangible assets and rights of use assets impairment losses is reviewed for the issuance of all consolidated financial statements. The net effects of the constitution and recovery of the above-mentioned impairments are recorded under “Impairment of Fixed Assets”, which is described in Note 24.

For further information on recoverability of goodwill analysis, see item u.1) - “Recoverability of Goodwill” to this Note.

n)    Other liabilities

Pension Benefits

Pension benefits shown under Other liabilities represent accrued benefits under collective bargaining agreements for employees who retire upon reaching normal retirement age, or earlier due to disability in Telecom Argentina. Benefits consist of the payment of a single lump sum equal to the salary of one month for each five years of service at the time of retirement due to retirement age or disability. The collective bargaining agreements do not provide for other post-retirement benefits such as life insurance, health care, and other welfare benefits.

The net periodic pension costs are recognized in the income statement, segregating the financial component, as employees render the services necessary to earn pension benefits. However, actuarial gains and losses should be presented in the statements of comprehensive income. Actuarial assumptions and demographic data, as applicable, were used to measure the benefit obligation as required by IAS 19, as amended. The Company does not make plan contributions or maintain separate assets to fund the benefits at retirement.

The actuarial assumptions used are based on market interest rates, experience and the best estimate made by the Company’s Management of the future economic conditions. Changes in these assumptions may impact future benefit costs and obligations. The main assumptions used in determining expense and benefit obligations are the following:

    

2023

    

2022

    

2021

Discount Rate (1)

 

4.2% - 12.2%

6.0% - 11.6%

6.1% - 11.8%

Projected increase rate in compensation 

 

32.0% - 175.0%

52.0% - 83.1%

23.0% - 51.8%

1)

Represents real discount rates.

Additional information on pension benefits is provided in Note 18.

Deferred revenues on prepaid credit

Revenues from unused traffic and data packs for unexpired prepaid credits are deferred and recognized as revenue when they are used by customers or when such credit expires, whichever happens first.

Deferred revenues on connection fees

Non-refundable up-front connection or installation fees for fixed telephony, data, cable and Internet services are deferred over the term of the contract, or in the case of indefinite period contracts, over the average period of customer relationship.

Deferred Revenues on International Capacity Leases

Under certain network capacity purchase agreements, the Company sells excess purchased capacity to other carriers. Revenues are deferred and recognized as services are provided.

F-40

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

o)    Salaries and Social Security Payables

These include unpaid salaries, vacation and bonuses and their related social security contributions, as well as termination benefits, and are measured at the amounts expected to be paid when the liabilities are settled.

Termination benefits represent severance indemnities that are payable when employment is terminated in accordance with labor regulations and current practices, or whenever an employee accepts voluntary redundancy in exchange for these benefits.

In the case of severance compensations resulting from agreements with employees leaving the Company upon acceptance of voluntary redundancy, the compensation is usually comprised of a special cash bonus paid upon signing the severance agreement, and in certain cases may include a deferred compensation, which is payable in monthly installments calculated as a percentage of the prevailing wage at the date of each payment (“prejubilaciones”). The employee’s right to receive the monthly installments mentioned above starts on the date they leave the Company and ends either when they reach the legal mandatory retirement age or upon the decease of the beneficiary, whichever occurs first.

p)    Taxes Payable

The main taxes that have an impact on net income are the following:

Income Tax

The income tax expense or credit for the period is the tax payable on the current period’s taxable income, based on the applicable income tax rate for each jurisdiction, adjusted by changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities attributable to temporary differences and to unused tax losses.

Income tax is recognized in the consolidated income statement, except to the extent that they relate to items recognized in Other comprehensive income or in equity, in which case they will also be recognized under such items. The income tax expense for the year comprises current and deferred tax.

The current income tax charge is calculated on the basis of the tax laws enacted or substantively enacted at the end of the reporting period in the countries where the company and its subsidiaries operate and generate taxable income. Management periodically evaluates uncertain tax positions taken based on what is described in section u.4 of this note.

Deferred income tax is provided in full, using the liability method, on temporary differences arising between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the consolidated financial statements, whose reversals in the future will have an impact on taxable income. The deferred tax asset / liability is disclosed under a separate item of the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.

Deferred tax assets (including unused tax loss carryforwards) are recognised only if it is probable that future taxable amounts will be available to utilise those temporary differences and losses. Tax loss carryforwards may be computed against future taxable income for a maximum of five years, except for Chile where tax loss carryforwards have no statute of limitations.

Deferred tax assets that may arise from differences related to investments in controlled companies will be recognized whenever it is probable that the temporary differences will reverse in the foreseeable future and that taxable profits are available against which said temporary differences can be used.

Deferred income tax is determined using tax rates (and laws) that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the end of the reporting period and are expected to apply when the related deferred income tax asset is realised or the deferred income tax liability is settled.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset where there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets and liabilities and where the deferred tax balances relate to the same taxation authority. Current tax assets and tax liabilities are offset where the entity has a legally enforceable right to offset and intends either to settle on a net basis, or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

F-41

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

A deferred tax asset shall be subjected to a recoverability test at the end of every reporting period in line with what is described in section u.3 of this note.

In Argentina, since fiscal year 2021, Law No. 27,630 stablished an increasing rate scale related to the taxable income of each taxpayer, which is adjusted annually starting in fiscal year 2022 according to the CPI of October of the prior year to the adjustment, with respect to the same month of the previous year.

The scales of rates in force in each year presented based on the taxable income are detailed below:

Rate

    

2023

    

2022

    

2021

 

25%

  

Up to $14.3 million

Up to $7.6 million

Up to $5 million

30%

  

For the exceeding of $14.3 million and up to $143 million

For the exceeding of $7.6 million and up to $76 million

For the exceeding of $5 million and up to $50 million

35%

  

For the exceeding of $143 million

For the exceeding of $76 million

For the exceeding of $50 million

In addition, there is in force a withholding tax regime on distributed dividends of 7% applicable to shareholders who are Argentine resident individuals and to nonresident shareholders.

In Argentina, cash dividends received from a foreign subsidiary are computed on the statutory income tax rate under the application of the “world rate” principle. However, as per tax law, income taxes paid abroad may be recognized as tax credits, both the income tax paid abroad by the subsidiary and the withholding tax on cash dividends.

The statutory income tax rate in Uruguay was 25% for all years presented.

The statutory income tax rate in Paraguay was 10% for all years presented. From 2020 an 8% tax rate was established on dividends and earnings when the recipient of the profits is an individual or legal entity resident in Paraguay, and 15% when the beneficiary of these profits is a nonresident. Telecom Argentina recognized a deferred tax liability arising from the effect of the difference in the income tax rates between Argentina and Paraguay on the accumulated profits because it is probable that these accumulated profits will flow in the form of dividends subject to income tax.

In the USA, the federal flat income tax rate is 21%. For the State of Florida, the income tax rate was 3.535% for fiscal year 2021, and for fiscal years beginning from January 1, 2022, the rate is 5.5%.

In Chile, the income tax rate for companies under the Pro Pyme regime (as is the case of Ubiquo) is 10% for fiscal year 2023 and 12.5% for fiscal year 2024. Starting in fiscal year 2025, 25% will apply.

Income Tax Inflation Adjustment

In accordance with the provisions of the regulations in force in the Income Tax Law, the Company applies the income tax inflation adjustment set out in Title VI of the income tax law since fiscal year 2019, as since that year the variation of the CPI required was verified by the regulation.

The income tax inflation adjustment corresponding to fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 2021, is fully charged to the fiscal year.

Additionally, it was established, in general, the update of the cost of several assets -in case of disposal- and the update of computable depreciation of Fixed Assets, to all acquisitions or investments made in fiscal years beginning on January 1, 2018 based on changes in the CPI.

F-42

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

On December 1, 2022, the Law No. 27,701 was enacted, which provided that taxpayers who determine a positive inflation adjustment in the first and second fiscal years beginning on January 1, 2022 may allocate one-third in that fiscal period and the remaining two-thirds in equal parts to the two immediately following fiscal periods. Said computation will proceed for those subjects who make investments in the purchase, construction, manufacture, elaboration or import of Fixed Assets (except automobiles) during each of the immediate fiscal periods following the computation of each third, for an amount greater than or equal to the 30 billion pesos. Given that the Company made investments during 2023 for more than $30 billion, as of December 31, 2022 and 2023, it determined the income tax inflation adjustment.

Other Taxes and fees

In addition, the Company is affected by various taxes and fees that affect its activity, such as: a) VAT, b) internal taxes, c) export duties, d) tax on bank credits and debits, e) turnover tax, f) municipal fees, g) SU contribution, h) ENACOM’s control, inspection and verification fee and Radioelectric Rights, i) tax on audiovisual communication services, among others.

PAIS Tax on Imports of Services and Goods

On July 24, 2023, PEN issued Decree No. 377/2023, regulated through the RG (AFIP) No. 5,393, which provides that all purchases of foreign currency made by residents in the country on or after July 24, 2023 for the payment of obligations related to the activities detailed below will be subject to the PAIS tax (Spanish acronym for the phrase “For an Inclusive and Supportive Argentina”):

i) Acquisition of certain services described in the decree provided from abroad or services provided by non-residents within the country. In these cases, at the time of access to MULC, a tax perception of 25% will be applied on the amount in pesos disbursed. The same is provided for freight and other transportation services for import or export operations of goods, or their acquisition in the country when they are provided by non-residents, being in these cases, the tax perception of 7.5%. Which, through Decree No. 29/2023, published in the Official Gazette on December 31, 2023 and regulated by RG (AFIP) No. 5,464, said rate was raised to 17.5% as of December 13, 2023.

ii) The import of goods included in the Mercosur Common Nomenclature (NCM, for its Spanish acronym) except for products listed in the Decree. In these cases, the regulation provided for the application of a 7.5% tax rate, said rate was raised to 17.5% as of December 13, 2023. Through RG (AFIP) No. 5,393, AFIP establishes the application of a payment on account of 7.125% that will be calculated based on the FOB value stated in the import declaration and must be made at the time of formalizing the import declaration. Said payment on account may be deducted from the determined tax of 7.5% that is applicable at the time of access to the exchange market. Through RG (AFIP) No. 5,464, the payment on account was raised to 16.625% as of December 13, 2023.

Additionally, on December 22, 2023, the PEN issued Decree No. 72/2023, regulated through GR (AFIP) No. 5,468, which stipulates that the subscription in pesos of bonds or securities issued in US dollars by the Central Bank of Argentina (BCRA) is subject to the PAIS tax (Spanish acronym for the phrase “For an Inclusive and Supportive Argentina”) by those who hold debts for imports of goods with customs entry registration and/or imports of services - as established by the BCRA - effectively provided, up to and including December 12, 2023. Such imports must fall within the scope of the provisions of Decree No. 377/2023. The tax rate shall be 0% for subscriptions made up to and including January 31, 2024. Starting February 1, 2024, the tax rate shall be the one applicable to the import of goods with customs entry registration and/or import of services - as established by the BCRA - effectively provided up to and including December 12, 2023, for which the bonds or securities are subscribed.

The tax described is an expense that, by its nature, is caused by a financial transaction, which is the payment of an obligation with third parties. Consequently, and following its accounting policy, the Company has defined its disclosure in the consolidated income statement in the line “Other financial results, net” as “Other taxes and bank expenses”. As of December 31, 2023, the expense recognized by this tax amounts to $3,553 million.

q)    Provisions

The Company records provisions when it has a present, legal or constructive obligation, to a third party, as a result of a past event, when it is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to satisfy the obligation and when the amount of the obligation can be estimated reliably.

F-43

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

If the effect of the time value of money is material, and the payment date of the obligations can be reasonably estimated, provisions to be accrued are the present value of the expected cash flows, considering the risks associated with the obligation. The increase in the provision due to the passage of time is recognized as finance expenses within “Other financial results, net”. For more information, see Note 19.

Provisions also include the expected costs of dismantling assets and restoring the corresponding site if a legal or constructive obligation exists.

r)    Dividends

Dividends payables are reported as a change in equity in the year in which they are approved by the Shareholders’ Meeting.

For non-cash assets dividends, dividends payable must be valued at the fair value of the assets to be delivered.

s)    Merger Surplus

Due to the merger between Telecom Argentina (surviving entity and accounting acquired) and Cablevisión (absorbed entity), a merger surplus was generated, which mainly reflects the difference between the fair value of the consideration transferred and the book value of the equity of Telecom Argentina as of the effective date of the merger, which took place on January 1, 2018.

t)    Net Earnings (losses) per Share

Basic earnings (loss) per share is calculated by dividing the net income (loss) attributable to owners of the Parent by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the year. On the other hand, diluted earnings (losses) per share is computed by dividing the net income (loss) for the year by the weighted average number of common shares issued and dilutive potential common shares at the closing of the year. Since the Company has no dilutive potential common stock outstanding, diluted earnings (losses) per share and basic earnings (losses) per share are the same.

For the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 the weighted average number of shares outstanding amounted to 2,153,688,011.

u)    Use of Estimates

The preparation of consolidated financial statements requires the Company’s Management to make estimates and assumptions based also on significant judgments, experience and hypotheses considered reasonable and realistic in relation to the information known at the time of the estimate.

Such estimates have an effect on the measurement of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of these consolidated financial statements as well as the measurement of revenues and costs during the year. Actual results could differ, even significantly, from those estimates because of possible changes in the factors considered in the determination of such estimates. Estimates are reviewed periodically.

The main accounting estimates and assumptions which require significant judgments, that could affect the valuation of assets and liabilities, are addressed below:

u.1)   Recoverability of Goodwill

As indicated in section m) of this Note, the Company monitors goodwill and determines its recoverable value using the higher value between its fair value less costs of disposal and its value in use.

F-44

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

a)    Year 2023

As of December 31, 2023, the Company reviewed the estimated recoverable value which was calculated based on the fair value less the costs of disposal of CGU of Telecom, since it was higher than the value in use on the same date.

In order to determine the fair value less the costs of disposal, which amounted to $5,995,369 million as of December 31, 2023, the Company’s Management has considered the market capitalization value of CGU of Telecom based on an average share market price of $1,321.4 per share of Telecom (calculated based on market prices in BYMA weighed by the volume of the transactions corresponding to the three-month period prior December 31, 2023).

The Company’s Management has used this valuation method because the share market price is volatile and subject to wide fluctuations, mainly due to the complex macroeconomic environment in the country.

In order to determine the fair value of the CGU of Telecom, the above-mentioned market capitalization value was adjusted by (i) the estimated fair value of other CGUs; (ii) the effect of the net liabilities not subject to this impairment testing, calculated at their estimated fair value; (iii) the effect of a 29% control premium (determined by the Company with the assistance of independent advisors, based in the values observed in market transactions for the ICT Services industry for the period 2015 to 2023); and (iv) estimated disposal costs for an orderly transaction, which include costs such as legal and advisory fees that could be directly associated with the sale of the CGU of Telecom. Therefore, the fair value qualifies as level 2 of fair value hierarchy in accordance with IFRS 13.

As a result of the calculation mentioned above, the recoverable value exceeded the carrying amount of the CGU of Telecom by approximately 27.9%.

The Company has considered the following sensitivity analysis of the recoverability test, evaluating reasonably possible changes in the key assumptions:

a)

Decreasing a 35.6% the market capitalization value, and keeping the rest of the assumptions stable, the fair value less disposal costs would equal its carrying amount of the CGU.

b)

if the Company had not considered a control premium, keeping the rest of the premises stable, the fair value less disposal costs would would be 10.3% higher the carrying amount of the CGU.

As of December 31, 2023, the results of recoverability test were satisfactory, therefore, no impairment has been recorded.

Regarding the tests carried out for foreign Goodwill, they were satisfactory, therefore, as of December 31, 2023, no impairment has been recorded.

b)    Year 2022

b.1)​ ​Impairment of Goodwill as of September 30, 2022

As of September 30, 2022, the events of Covid-19 pandemic and the international conflict between Ukraine and Russia, added to the prevailing political conditions, negatively affected the Argentine economy in general and the stock market. in particular, causing, mainly:

i)

an inflationary acceleration and higher devaluation of the Argentine peso, being the inflation rate accumulated for the first nine months of the year of 66.1% and the variation of the Banco Nación Divisas $/US$ exchange rate for the same period of 43.4%;

ii)

volatility in the stock market in which the Company operates. The market price of Telecom shares in Argentine pesos in BYMA, increased by 24.7%. On the other hand, the price of the Telecom´s ADR in US$ on the NYSE decreased by 21.4%;

iii)

greater exchange restrictions on the access to the MULC, which could affect the Company’s ability to access it and also affect the value of foreign currency in existing alternative markets. The gap as of September 30, 2022 between the MULC and the existing alternative markets (Electronic Payment Market “MEP dollar”) amounted to 105.3%; and

F-45

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

iv)

an increase in country risk and a general increase in interest rates.

As a result of the above-mentioned, the Company’s Management identified the need to review the estimate of the recoverable value of goodwill assigned to the CGU of Telecom.

The most significant goodwill held by the Company was generated by the merger between Telecom Argentina and Cablevision (which became effective on January 1, 2018). The goodwill was measured as the excess of the fair value of the consideration transferred over the fair value of the net identifiable assets and liabilities of Telecom Argentina. On the other hand, such transaction also generated the corresponding merger surplus, which mainly reflects the difference between the fair value of the transferred consideration and the book value of Telecom Argentina’s equity as of the effective date of merger, which was the setoff of the recognition of goodwill and the higher value of the Fixed Assets, arising from its valuation at market value at the time of the merger, net of the tax effect.

Due to the fact that the merger was a business combination carried out through an exchange of equity interests, the consideration was determined based on the fair value of the shares of Telecom, calculated based on the market price of the ADR of Telecom on NYSE on the last market day before the effective date of the transaction, which amounted to US$36.63 per ADR (as of September 30, 2022, this value amounted to US$4.01 per ADR).

As of September 30, 2022, the Company determined the recoverable value as fair value less costs of disposal, since it was higher than the value in use.

In order to determine the fair value less the costs of disposal of the CGU of Telecom, which amounted to $1,332,931 million as of September 30, 2022 ($4,150,848 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023), the Company’s Management has considered the market capitalization value based on an average share market price of $265.9 per share (calculated based on market prices in BYMA weighed by the volume of the transactions corresponding to the three-month period prior September 30, 2022).

The Company’s Management has used this valuation method because the share market price is volatile and subject to wide fluctuations, mainly due to the difficult macroeconomic environment.

In order to determine the fair value of the CGU of Telecom, the above-mentioned market capitalization value was adjusted by (i) the estimated fair value of other CGUs; (ii) the effect of the net liabilities not subject to this impairment testing, calculated at their estimated fair value; (iii) the effect of a 28.6% control premium (determined by the Company with the assistance of independent advisors, based in the values observed in market transactions for the ICT Services industry); and (iv) estimated disposal costs for an orderly transaction, which include costs such as legal and advisory fees that could be directly associated with the sale of the CGU. Therefore, the fair value qualifies as level 2 of fair value hierarchy in accordance with IFRS 13.

As a result of the calculation mentioned above, the carrying amount of the CGU of Telecom exceed the recoverable value by $207,940 million ($759,523 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023). Consequently, as of September 30, 2022, the Company recognized an impairment of goodwill for that amount, which is recorded in the line “Depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets” of the Consolidated Income Statement, not affecting other Fixed Assets of the Company.

b.2)​ ​As of December 31, 2022

As of December 31, 2022, the Company reviewed again the estimated recoverable value which was calculated based on the value in use, since it was higher than the fair value less the costs of disposal on the same date.

The cash flows used as the basis for calculating the value in use corresponded to the budget 2023 approved by Management which was used as the basis for cash flow projections until 2027.

In order to determine the terminal value of the cash-generating unit, the Company considered a normalized constant cash flow taking into consideration a long-term growth rate of normalized constant cash flow of 2.26%, consistent with ICT industry ratios.

F-46

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

For the preparation of such cash flows, the Company considered the current market situation in which Telecom operated. Likewise, the Company’s Management made estimates based on past performance and the future behavior of certain sensitive market assumptions, among them, the revenues, the discount rate after income tax, long-term growth rate of normalized constant cash flow and certain macroeconomic variables such as inflation and exchange rates.

Cash flows were discounted at a WACC of 11.04%, which reflected the specific risks related to the industry and the country in which the Company operates.

As a result of the calculation mentioned above, the value in use exceed the carrying amount of the CGU of Telecom by approximately 3.4%.

The Company has considered the following sensitivity analysis of the recoverability test, evaluating reasonably possible changes in the key assumptions:

a)

Decreasing the long-term growth rate of normalized constant cash flow to 1.89%, and keeping the rest of the assumptions stable, the value in use would equal its carrying amount of the CGU of Telecom.

b)

Increasing the WACC to 11.31%, and keeping the rest of the assumptions stable, the value in use would equal its carrying amount of the CGU of Telecom.

c)

Decreasing the revenues by 1% for the cash flow period 2023-2027, and keeping the rest of the assumptions stable, the value in use would equal its carrying amount of the CGU of Telecom.

As of December 31, 2022, the results of recoverability test were satisfactory, therefore, no impairment has been recorded in addition to described in section b.1).

Regarding the tests carried out for foreign Goodwill, they were satisfactory, therefore, as of December 31, 2022, no impairment has been recorded.

u.2)   Useful lives and residual value (non-amortizable) of PP&E and Intangible assets

PP&E and intangible assets with definite useful lives are depreciated or amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. The determination of the depreciable amount of the assets and their useful lives involves significant judgment. The Company periodically reviews, at least at each financial year-end, the estimated useful lives and the residual value of its PP&E and amortizable intangible assets.

u.3)   Income Tax and deferred tax: recoverability assessment of deferred tax assets and other tax receivables

Income taxes (current and deferred) are calculated in Telecom and its subsidiaries according to a reasonable interpretation of the tax laws in effect in each jurisdiction where the companies operate. The recoverability assessment of deferred tax assets sometimes involves complex estimates to determine taxable income and deductible and taxable temporary differences between the carrying amounts and the taxable amounts. In particular, deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent that future taxable income will be available against which they can be utilized. The measurement of the recoverability of deferred tax assets takes into account the estimate of future taxable income based on the Company’s projections.

On the other hand, the recoverability assessment of the tax receivable related to the actions of recourse filed by the Company in connection with income tax inflation adjustment (Note 15), is based on the existing legal arguments and future behavior of Tax Courts and the National Tax Authority in revising the claims filed by the Company.

The actual moment of the future taxable revenues and deductions may differ from those estimated, and may produce an impact on future income.

F-47

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

u.4) Uncertain tax positions

The Company’s Management periodically evaluates the positions taken in tax returns regarding situations in which the applicable tax regulation is subject to interpretation considering the probability that the tax authority will accept each treatment, and, if applicable, records tax provisions to reflect the effect of uncertainty for each treatment based on the amount estimated to be paid to the tax authorities.

If the final tax result with respect to uncertain treatments is different from the amounts that were recognized, such differences will have an effect on income tax and deferred tax provisions in the year in which such determination is made.

Uncertain tax positions are described in Note 15 under the headings “Income Tax – Reimbursement Claims filed with the Tax Authority” resulting from reimbursement claims filed with the AFIP to claim the full income tax overpaid for fiscal years 2009-2017 under the argument that the inability to apply income tax inflation adjustment is confiscatory and “Income Tax – Inflation adjustment for tax purposes” which describes the criteria followed by the Company by which it has calculated in its tax return corresponding to fiscal year 2021 the restated tax amortization of all its fixed and intangible assets pursuant to Articles 87 and 88 of the Income Tax Law and applying the tax loss carryforwards from previous years in accordance with the restatement mechanism provided under Article 25 of such Law.

u.5)   Provisions for Legal Claims and contingent liabilities

The Company is subject to proceedings, lawsuits and other claims related to labor, civil, tax, regulatory and commercial. In order to determine the proper level of provisions, Management assesses the likelihood of any adverse judgments or outcomes related to these matters as well as the range of probable losses that may result from the potential outcomes. Internal and external legal counsels are consulted on these matters. A determination of the amount of provisions required, if any, is made after analysis of each individual issue.

The determination by the Company’s Management of the required provisions may change in the future, among other reasons, due to new events that occur in each claim, or facts not known at the time of the evaluation of the cases or changes in the jurisprudence or applicable legislation.

u.6) Allowance for Bad Debts

The recoverability of trade receivables is measured by considering the aging of the accounts receivable balances, un-subscription of customers, historical write-offs, public sector and corporate customer creditworthiness and changes in the customer payment terms, as well as the estimates regarding future performance, assessing the expected credit loss in accordance with IFRS 9. If the financial condition of the customers were to deteriorate, the actual write-offs could be different from expected.

F-48

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

v)   New Standards and Interpretations issued by the IASB

v.1) New Standards and Interpretations issued by the IASB applied by the Company

The Company has applied the following new standards and amendments for the first time from January 1, 2023:

Standards and amendments

    

Description

    

Mandatory application date for years beginning on or after

 

Amendments to IAS 1

Information relating to material accounting policies

January 1, 2023

Amendments to IAS 8

Definition of accounting estimate

January 1, 2023

Amendments to IAS 12

Deferred tax – recognition of assets and liabilities arising from a single transaction

January 1, 2023

Amendments to IAS 12

International Tax Reform – Pillar Two Model Rules

January 1, 2023

The application of the detailed amendment did not generate any impact on the results of operations or the financial situation of the Company.

v.2) New Standards and Interpretations issued by the IASB not in force

As of the date to prepare these consolidated financial statements, the Company has not applied the following new standards and amendments to the existing ones which application is mandatory for periods beginning after December 31, 2023:

Standards and amendments

    

Description

    

Mandatory application date for years beginning on or after

 

Amendments to IFRS 16

Measurement of the lease liability in a sale and leaseback transaction

January 1, 2024

Amendments to IAS 1

Classification of liabilities as current and non-current exposed to covenants

January 1, 2024

Amendments to IAS 7 and IFRS 7

Disclosure requirements to enhance the transparency of supplier finance arrangements and their effects on a company’s liabilities, cash flows and exposure to liquidity risk.

January 1, 2024

Amendments to IAS 21

Lack of Exchangeability: Evaluation when a currency is exchangeable into another currency;

January 1, 2025

It should be noted that on August 15, 2023, the CNV issued General Resolution No. 972/23, which does not allow early application of new IFRS Accounting Standards or their amendments. While Management is analyzing the potential impacts of such standards, and according to the preliminary analysis performed, the mentioned standards are not expected to have significant impact in the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

F-49

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

NOTE 4 – CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AND INVESTMENTS. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON THE CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

a)   Cash and cash equivalents and Investments

    

As of December 31, 

Cash and cash equivalents

2023

    

2022

Cash and Banks (1)

 

90,968

 

50,630

Time deposits

 

35,548

 

48,933

Mutual funds

 

13,906

 

10,103

Government bonds at fair value

 

19,352

 

15,059

Total cash and cash equivalents

 

159,774

 

124,725

(1) As of December 31, 2023, includes restricted funds for $7,219 million corresponding to the funds to be paid to customers

Investments

 

  

 

  

Current

 

  

 

  

Government bonds at fair value

 

111,339

 

25,731

Time deposits

12,110

Mutual funds

 

520

 

343

 

123,969

 

26,074

Non- current

 

 

  

Investments in associates and joint ventures(a)

 

23,807

 

20,061

2003 Telecommunications Fund

 

1

 

1

23,808

20,062

Total investments

 

147,777

 

46,136

(a)Information on Investments in associates and joint ventures is detailed below:

Financial position information:

    

    

    

    

Percentage

    

    

 of capital

stock owned

Nature of

and

Valuation as 

Valuation as

Companies

relationship

Main activity

Country

voting rights (%)

of 12.31.2023

of 12.31.2022

Ver TV. (1)

Associate

Cable television station

Argentina

49.00

10,493

12,869

TSMA (1) (2) (3)

Associate

 

Cable television station

 

Argentina

 

50.10

 

3,814

 

4,836

La Capital Cable (1) (2)

Associate

 

Closed-circuit television

 

Argentina

 

50.00

 

2,248

 

2,356

OPH (4)

Joint venture

Holding

USA

50.00

7,252

Total

 

 

 

  

 

23,807

 

20,061

(1)Data about the issuer arises from extra-accounting information.
(2)Direct and indirect interest.
(3)Despite owning a percentage higher than a 50% of interest, the Company does not have the control in accordance with the requirements of IFRS Accounting Standards. See Note 3.d.3.1).
(4)During April 2023, the Company has acquired a 50% shareholding in OPH. See Note 28.b).

F-50

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Earnings information:

Years ended December 31, 

    

2023

    

2022

    

2021

Ver TV

(1,772)

1,286

1,894

TSMA

 

(825)

 

847

 

467

La Capital Cable

 

327

 

417

 

37

OPH

382

Total

 

(1,888)

 

2,550

 

2,398

b)   Additional information on the consolidated statements of cash flows

Changes in assets/liabilities components:

    

December 31, 

Net (increase) decrease in assets

 

2023

    

2022

    

2021

Trade receivables

 

(177,962)

 

(102,951)

 

(80,732)

Other receivables

 

(89,842)

 

(70,363)

 

(32,860)

Inventories

 

(20,870)

 

(7,318)

 

8,691

 

(288,674)

 

(180,632)

 

(104,901)

Net increase (decrease) in liabilities

 

  

 

  

 

  

Trade payables

 

338,257

 

172,342

 

69,827

Salaries and social security payables

 

72,461

 

58,990

 

60,120

Other taxes payables

 

43,974

 

(36,242)

 

(17,647)

Other liabilities and provisions

 

18,029

 

(1,878)

 

(5,767)

 

472,721

 

193,212

 

106,533

Main Financing activities components

The following table presents the main financing activities components:

December 31, 

    

2023

    

2022

    

2021

Bank overdrafts

58,006

61,606

Notes

263,859

70,104

251,885

Bank and other financial entities loans

 

65,991

 

189,068

 

67,090

Loans for purchase of equipment

 

313

 

6,194

 

8,953

Total proceeds from borrowings

388,169

265,366

389,534

Bank overdrafts

(3,647)

Notes

(109,562)

(305)

(119,633)

Bank and other financial entities loans

(104,108)

(188,059)

(163,800)

Loans for purchase of equipment

(14,882)

(20,721)

(21,662)

Total payment of borrowings

(228,552)

(212,732)

(305,095)

Bank overdrafts

(38,250)

(26,186)

(19,398)

Notes

(35,093)

(50,847)

(64,306)

Bank and other financial entities loans

 

(90,545)

 

(59,205)

 

(62,359)

By DFI, and loans for purchase of equipment

 

(18,967)

 

(7,670)

 

(16,610)

Total payment of interest and related expenses

 

(182,855)

 

(143,908)

 

(162,673)

F-51

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Main Non-cash financing and investing activities

Main non-cash operating transactions and that were eliminated from the consolidated statement of cash flows are the following:

December 31, 

    

2023

    

2022

    

2021

PP&E and intangible assets acquisition financed with accounts payable

138,230

85,674

125,011

Right of use assets acquisition owed

85,619

65,386

110,123

Dividends payment made with investments not considered as cash and cash equivalents (See “Dividends paid”)

104,445

140,937

242,761

Trade payables cancelled with borrowings

34,104

33,433

49,364

Trade receivables cancelled with government bonds

2,090

14,284

Social security payables cancelled with government bonds

7,981

Joint ventures acquisition cancelled with government bonds

547

Debt for acquisition of companies and joint ventures

3,927

1,896

Indemnification assets

280

Other receivables offset with income tax liabilities

861

Dividends from associates

Brief information on dividends proceeds from associates by the Company is provided below:

    Distributed amount

Dividends collected

Current currency

Current currency

Paying

Distribution

Currency of the

as of December 31,

Collection

as of December 31,

Year

    

Company

    

month

    

transaction date

    

2023

    

month

    

2023

2023

Ver TV

March, 2023

130

332

April, 2023

306

Ver TV

November, 2023

217

272

November, 2023

272

La Capital Cable

April, 2023

200

435

May, 2023

429

 

TSMA

July, 2023

 

101

 

197

July, 2023

197

1,236

1,204

2022

 

Ver TV

January, 2022

 

104

 

607

January, 2022

607

 

TSMA

January, 2022

 

28

 

159

January, 2022

159

 

La Capital Cable

September, 2022

 

343

 

1,253

October, 2022

1,149

 

2,019

1,915

2021

 

Ver TV

January, 2021

 

110

 

928

January, 2021

928

 

TSMA

January, 2021

 

57

 

492

January, 2021

492

 

 

1,420

1,420

F-52

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Dividends paid

Distribution of non-cash dividends

    

    

Distributed amount

Currency of the

    

Current currency as of

Year

Government Bonds and Nominal Value

transaction date

December 31, 2023

2023 (1)

2030 Global Bonds: US$411,214,954

47,701

104,445

2022 (2)

2030 Global Bonds: US$411,145,986 2035 Global Bonds 2035: US$103,854,014

31,634

140,937

2021(3)

 

2030 Global Bonds: US$370,386,472
2035 Global Bonds 2035: US$186,621,565

 

35,068

 

242,761

(1)Pursuant to the powers delegated by the shareholders of Telecom Argentina at the Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting held on April 27, 2023, on May 3, 2023, the Board resolved to partially reverse the “Voluntary reserve to maintain the Company’s level of capital expenditures and its current solvency level” to distribute as non-cash dividends.
(2)Pursuant to the powers delegated by Telecom Argentina’s Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting held on April 27, 2022, on June 2, 2022 the Board resolved to partially reverse the “Voluntary reserve to maintain the Company’s level of capital expenditures and its current solvency level” to distribute as non-cash dividends.
(3)The General Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of Telecom Argentina held on August 11, 2021 resolved to partially reverse the “Voluntary reserve to maintain the Company’s level of capital expenditures and its current solvency level” to distribute as non-cash dividends.

Dividends paid to non-controlling interests in subsidiaries

Brief information on cash dividends distributed and paid is provided below:

Distributed amount

Current currency

Dividends paid in

Paying

Currency of the

as of December 31,

current currency

Year

    

company

    

Distribution month

    

transaction date

    

2023

    

Payment month

    

as of December 31, 2023

2023

Núcleo

August, 2023

2,326

4,020

August, 2023

4,020

4,020

2022

 

Núcleo

 

April, 2022

 

804

 

3,957

 

May, 2022 / August, 2022

 

3,827

 

 

 

3,827

2021

 

Núcleo

 

April, 2021

 

650

 

5,060

 

May, 2021/ October, 2021

 

4,512

 

 

 

4,512

F-53

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

NOTE 5 – TRADE RECEIVABLES

As of December 31, 

Current Trade receivables

    

2023

    

2022

Ordinary receivables

167,254

164,280

Companies under section 33 - Law No. 19,550 and related parties (Note 27.b)

693

701

Contractual asset IFRS 15

44

78

Allowance for doubtful accounts

(35,123)

 

(47,920)

132,868

 

117,139

Non-current Trade receivables

  

 

  

Ordinary receivables

235

345

Contractual asset IFRS 15

17

23

252

368

Total trade receivables, net

133,120

 

117,507

Movements in the allowance for doubtful accounts are as follows:

Years ended December 31, 

    

2023

    

2022

At the beginning of the fiscal year

 

(47,920)

 

(59,417)

Increases

 

(44,652)

 

(57,118)

Uses

17,275

36,229

RECPAM and currency translation adjustments

 

40,174

 

32,386

At the end of the year

 

(35,123)

 

(47,920)

NOTE 6 – OTHER RECEIVABLES

As of December 31, 

Current Other receivables

    

2023

    

2022

Prepaid expenses

  

9,402

 

17,056

Guarantee of financial operations

7,520

Income tax credits

10,222

22,826

Other tax credits

5,771

6,898

Companies under section 33 - Law No. 19,550 and related parties (Note 27.b)

  

216

 

1,064

DFI (Note 22)

1,549

365

Indemnification assets

45

215

Guarantee deposits (Note 28.b)

2,417

Call option (Note 3.f.1)

4,033

3,056

Other

  

12,360

 

4,174

Allowance for other receivables

  

(1,754)

 

(2,333)

  

44,261

 

60,841

Non-current other receivables

Prepaid expenses

 

2,025

 

2,814

DFI (Note 22)

 

437

 

627

Other tax credits

 

55

 

29

Guarantee deposits (Note 28.b)

4,772

Other

 

2,118

 

1,728

 

9,407

 

5,198

Total Other receivables, net

 

53,668

 

66,039

F-54

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Movements in the allowance for current other receivables are as follows:

Years ended December 31, 

    

2023

    

2022

At the beginning of the year

 

(2,333)

 

(2,236)

Increases

 

(1,027)

 

(1,206)

RECPAM and currency translation adjustments

 

1,606

 

1,109

At the end of the year

 

(1,754)

 

(2,333)

NOTE 7 – INVENTORIES

As of December 31, 

    

2023

    

2022

Mobile handsets and others

 

32,896

 

21,605

Allowance for obsolescence of inventories

 

(1,367)

 

(1,526)

 

31,529

 

20,079

Movements in the allowance for obsolescence of inventories are as follows:

Years ended December 31, 

    

2023

    

2022

At the beginning of the year

 

(1,526)

 

(1,962)

Increases

 

(373)

 

(660)

Uses

 

532

 

1,096

At the end of the year

 

(1,367)

 

(1,526)

NOTE 8 – GOODWILL

As of December 31, 

    

2023

    

2022

Argentina

 

1,535,508

 

1,535,489

Abroad

 

8,456

 

5,224

 

1,543,964

 

1,540,713

Movements in Goodwill are as follows:

    

Years ended December 31,

2023

2022

At the beginning of the year

 

1,540,713

 

2,299,612

Increases

 

193

 

897

Impairment

 

 

(759,722)

Currency translation adjustments

 

3,058

 

(74)

At the end of the year

 

1,543,964

 

1,540,713

NOTE 9 – PP&E

As of December 31, 

    

2023

    

2022

PP&E

2,296,310

2,499,502

Allowance for obsolescence and impairment of materials

(21,993)

(28,280)

Impairment allowance of PP&E

(2,479)

(2,402)

2,271,838

2,468,820

F-55

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Details on the nature and movements of PP&E as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 are as follows:

Gross

Gross

value as

value as

of

Currency

of

December 31, 

translation

Transfers and

December 31,

    

2022

    

CAPEX

    

adjustments

    

reclassifications

    

Decreases

    

2023

Real estate

 

446,446

 

449

 

(264)

 

5,535

 

(233)

 

451,933

Switching equipment

 

166,889

 

7,308

 

(1,914)

 

9,424

 

 

181,707

Fixed network and transportation

 

2,105,467

 

67,723

 

11,801

 

85,511

 

(109,621)

 

2,160,881

Mobile network access

 

444,842

 

2

 

8,944

 

49,757

 

(53)

 

503,492

Tower and pole

 

117,123

 

 

892

 

3,357

 

(103)

 

121,269

Power equipment and Installations

 

179,620

 

3,728

 

3,993

 

8,330

 

(1)

 

195,670

Computer equipment

 

751,716

 

60,639

 

(6,524)

 

14,385

 

(9)

 

820,207

Goods lent to customers at no cost

 

203,670

 

13,446

 

(1,262)

 

28,012

 

(99,514)

 

144,352

Vehicles

 

67,834

 

2,043

 

221

 

 

(224)

 

69,874

Machinery, diverse equipment and tools

 

84,803

 

1,066

 

(424)

 

792

 

 

86,237

Other

 

31,338

 

1,523

 

379

 

1,558

 

 

34,798

Construction in progress

 

183,241

 

65,646

 

11,565

 

(100,835)

 

(151)

 

159,466

Materials

 

255,306

 

61,662

 

3,530

 

(105,826)

 

(21)

 

214,651

Total

 

5,038,295

 

285,235

 

30,937

 

(209,930)

 

5,144,537

Accumulated

Accumulated

depreciation

depreciation

Net carrying

as of

Currency

Decrease

as of

value as of

December 31, 

translation

and

December 31, 

December 31, 

    

2022

    

Depreciation

    

adjustments

    

reclassifications

    

2023

    

2023

Real estate

 

(89,828)

 

(17,881)

 

1,532

 

164

 

(106,013)

 

345,920

Switching equipment

 

(110,889)

 

(27,945)

 

6,320

 

 

(132,514)

 

49,193

Fixed network and transportation

 

(1,158,452)

 

(217,606)

 

(4,984)

 

109,621

 

(1,271,421)

 

889,460

Mobile network access

 

(291,951)

 

(58,699)

 

6,080

 

40

 

(344,530)

 

158,962

Tower and pole

 

(52,965)

 

(7,882)

 

1,493

 

77

 

(59,277)

 

61,992

Power equipment and Installations

 

(95,025)

 

(17,944)

 

1,585

 

 

(111,384)

 

84,286

Computer equipment

 

(515,436)

 

(108,906)

 

9,922

 

9

 

(614,411)

 

205,796

Goods lent to customers at no cost

 

(82,769)

 

(78,515)

 

3,017

 

99,514

 

(58,753)

 

85,599

Vehicles

 

(52,310)

 

(2,746)

 

97

 

217

 

(54,742)

 

15,132

Machinery, diverse equipment and tools

 

(72,492)

 

(2,121)

 

632

 

 

(73,981)

 

12,256

Other

 

(16,676)

 

(4,288)

 

(237)

 

 

(21,201)

 

13,597

Construction in progress

 

 

 

 

 

 

159,466

Materials

 

 

 

 

 

 

214,651

Total

 

(2,538,793)

 

(544,533)

 

25,457

 

209,642

 

(2,848,227)

 

2,296,310

Gross

Gross

value as

value as

of

Currency

of

December 31,

Incorporation by

translation

Transfers and

December 31, 

    

2021

    

acquisition

    

CAPEX

    

adjustments

    

reclassifications

    

Decreases

    

2022

Real estate

 

448,919

1,102

(3,609)

 

106

 

(72)

 

446,446

Switching equipment

137,823

6,851

(11,454)

33,943

(274)

166,889

Fixed network and transportation

 

2,028,450

1,787

71,434

(11,005)

 

96,091

 

(81,290)

 

2,105,467

Mobile network access

 

421,060

165

(13,733)

 

38,882

 

(1,532)

 

444,842

Tower and pole

 

117,114

(3,603)

 

4,185

 

(573)

 

117,123

Power equipment and Installations

158,771

69

3,942

(5,113)

22,010

(59)

179,620

Computer equipment

 

689,877

66,663

(17,414)

 

17,302

 

(4,712)

 

751,716

Goods lent to customers at no cost

 

247,248

324

13,135

(6,564)

 

44,491

 

(94,964)

 

203,670

Vehicles

 

59,694

9,482

(402)

 

 

(940)

 

67,834

Machinery, diverse equipment and tools

 

85,133

16

395

(1,513)

 

772

 

 

84,803

Other

 

26,904

9

2,572

(274)

 

2,127

 

 

31,338

Construction in progress

 

237,588

76,924

(1,034)

 

(128,686)

 

(1,551)

 

183,241

Materials

 

277,145

234

121,243

(1,302)

 

(142,073)

 

59

 

255,306

Total

 

4,935,726

2,439

373,908

 

(77,020)

 

(10,850)

 

(185,908)

 

5,038,295

F-56

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Accumulated

Accumulated

depreciation

depreciation

Net carrying

as of

Incorporation

Currency

Decrease

as of

value as of

December 31, 

by

translation

and

December 31, 

December 31, 

    

2021

acquisition

    

Depreciation

    

adjustments

    

reclassifications

    

2022

    

2022

Real estate

 

(76,497)

(18,398)

 

2,644

 

2,423

 

(89,828)

 

356,618

Switching equipment

(90,863)

(29,979)

9,688

265

(110,889)

56,000

Fixed network and transportation

 

(1,008,509)

(517)

(237,775)

 

7,103

 

81,246

 

(1,158,452)

 

947,015

Mobile network access

 

(235,057)

(67,270)

 

9,046

 

1,330

 

(291,951)

 

152,891

Tower and pole

 

(47,141)

(8,343)

 

2,261

 

258

 

(52,965)

 

64,158

Power equipment and Installations

(79,882)

(22)

(18,326)

3,161

44

(95,025)

84,595

Computer equipment

 

(405,714)

(129,465)

 

15,066

 

4,677

 

(515,436)

 

236,280

Goods lent to customers at no cost

 

(84,915)

(34)

(97,262)

 

4,478

 

94,964

 

(82,769)

 

120,901

Vehicles

 

(48,103)

(5,403)

 

296

 

900

 

(52,310)

 

15,524

Machinery, diverse equipment and tools

 

(70,742)

(3)

(2,887)

 

1,140

 

 

(72,492)

 

12,311

Other

 

(12,986)

(3,933)

 

243

 

 

(16,676)

 

14,662

Construction in progress

 

 

 

 

 

183,241

Materials

 

 

 

 

 

255,306

Total

 

(2,160,409)

(576)

(619,041)

 

55,126

 

186,107

 

(2,538,793)

 

2,499,502

Movements in the allowance for obsolescence and impairment of materials are as follows:

Years ended December 31, 

    

2023

    

2022

At the beginning of the year

 

(28,280)

 

(28,659)

Uses

 

6,472

 

324

Currency translation adjustments

(185)

55

At the end of the year

 

(21,993)

 

(28,280)

Movements in the impairment of PP&E are as follows:

Years ended December 31, 

    

2023

    

2022

At the beginning of the year

 

(2,402)

 

(9,826)

(Increases)/ uses

 

(77)

 

7,424

At the end of the year

 

(2,479)

 

(2,402)

NOTE 10 – INTANGIBLE ASSETS

As of December 31, 

    

2023

    

2022

Intangible assets

 

940,344

 

827,332

Impairment allowance

 

(33,918)

 

(33,843)

 

906,426

 

793,489

F-57

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Details on the nature and movements of intangible assets as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 are as follows:

Gross value as of

Gross value as of

December 31, 

Currency translation

December 31, 

    

2022

    

CAPEX

    

adjustments

    

Transfers

    

Decreases

    

2023

5G licenses

173,373

173,373

3G/4G licenses

 

383,661

 

 

 

 

383,661

PCS and SRCE licenses (Argentina)

 

202,076

 

 

 

 

202,076

Núcleo´s licenses

 

48,358

637

 

2,625

 

 

 

51,620

Customer relationship

 

269,888

 

739

 

 

 

270,627

Brands

 

254,767

 

 

 

 

254,767

Incremental Cost from the acquisitions of contracts

26,003

5,310

(10)

(13,380)

17,923

Content activation

2,314

1,481

3,795

Internally generated software

25,426

14,811

92

40,329

Other

 

16,186

2,351

 

463

 

(92)

 

 

18,908

Total

 

1,228,679

197,963

 

3,817

 

 

(13,380)

 

1,417,079

Accumulated

Accumulated

Net carrying

amortization as of

Currency

amortization as of

value as of

December 31, 

translation

December 31,

December 31,

    

2022

    

Amortization

    

adjustments

Transfers

    

Decreases

    

2023

    

2023

5G licenses

(2,167)

(2,167)

171,206

3G/4G licenses

 

(126,915)

(26,122)

 

 

 

(153,037)

 

230,624

PCS and SRCE licenses (Argentina)

 

 

 

 

 

202,076

Núcleo´s licenses

 

(10,183)

(1,065)

 

(503)

 

 

(11,751)

 

39,869

Customer relationship

 

(214,330)

(42,711)

 

(214)

 

 

(257,255)

 

13,372

Brands

 

(2,055)

 

 

 

(2,055)

 

252,712

Incremental Cost from the acquisitions of contracts

(15,705)

(8,808)

(67)

13,380

(11,200)

6,723

Content activation

(1,127)

(1,543)

(2,670)

1,125

Internally generated software

(20,083)

(1,982)

(18)

(22,083)

18,246

Other

 

(10,949)

(3,510)

 

(76)

18

 

 

(14,517)

 

4,391

Total 

 

(401,347)

(87,908)

 

(860)

 

13,380

 

(476,735)

 

940,344

Gross value as of 

Currency

Gross value as

December 31, 

Incorporation

translation

of December 31,

    

2021

    

by acquisition

    

CAPEX

    

adjustments

    

Decreases (1)

    

2022

3G/4G licenses

 

426,354

 

 

3,345

 

 

(46,038)

 

383,661

PCS and SRCE licenses (Argentina)

 

202,076

 

 

 

 

 

202,076

Núcleo´s licenses

 

48,816

 

 

853

 

(1,311)

 

 

48,358

Customer relationship

 

269,041

 

1,233

 

 

(386)

 

 

269,888

Brands

 

254,636

 

131

 

 

 

 

254,767

Incremental Cost from the acquisitions of contracts

 

30,742

 

 

10,348

 

(174)

 

(14,913)

 

26,003

Content activation

819

1,495

2,314

Internally generated software

22,365

3,061

25,426

Other

 

16,171

 

 

199

 

(184)

 

 

16,186

Total

 

1,271,020

 

1,364

 

19,301

 

(2,055)

 

(60,951)

 

1,228,679

Accumulated

Accumulated

Net carrying

amortization as of

Currency

amortization as of

value as of

December 31, 

translation

December 31,

December 31,

    

2021

    

Amortization

    

adjustments

    

Decreases (1)

    

2022

    

2022

3G/4G licenses

(111,749)

 

(26,529)

 

11,363

 

(126,915)

 

256,746

PCS and SRCE licenses (Argentina)

202,076

Núcleo´s licenses

(8,159)

 

(2,043)

19

 

 

(10,183)

 

38,175

Customer relationship

(171,371)

(42,968)

9

(214,330)

55,558

Brands

(2,055)

 

 

 

(2,055)

 

252,712

Incremental Cost from the acquisitions of contracts

(17,542)

(13,079)

3

14,913

(15,705)

10,298

Content activation

(436)

(691)

(1,127)

1,187

Internally generated software

(19,806)

(277)

(20,083)

5,344

Other

(7,321)

(3,628)

(10,949)

5,236

Total 

(338,439)

 

(89,215)

31

 

26,276

 

(401,347)

827,332

(1)Includes $(32,873) million corresponding to the return of spectrum mentioned in Note 2.e.i).

F-58

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Movements in the impairment of Intangible assets are as follows:

Years ended December 31, 

    

2023

    

2022

At the beginning of the year

 

(33,843)

 

(58,386)

Increases (*)

 

(75)

 

(8,330)

Uses (*)

32,873

At the end of the year

 

(33,918)

 

(33,843)

(*)In 2022 corresponds to the return of spectrum mentioned in Note 2.e.i).

NOTE 11 – RIGHT OF USE ASSETS

Details on the nature and movements of Right of use assets as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 are as follows:

    

Gross value as of

    

    

    

December 31, 

Currency translation

Gross value as of

2022

    

Increases

adjustments

Decreases

December 31, 2023

Leases rights of use

 

- Sites

 

234,820

49,246

 

10,483

 

(457)

 

294,092

- Real estate and others

58,830

8,587

2,833

(636)

69,614

- Poles

30,807

14,011

1,133

(24)

45,927

Indefeasible right of use

11,317

442

11,759

Asset Retirement Obligation

 

30,888

13,775

 

233

 

(2,543)

 

42,353

Total

 

366,662

85,619

 

15,124

 

(3,660)

 

463,745

    

Accumulated

    

    

    

Accumulated

    

Net carrying

amortization as of

Currency

amortization as

value as of

December 31, 

translation

of December 31,

December 31,

2022

    

Amortization

    

adjustments

    

Decreases

2023

2023

Leases rights of use

 

 

- Sites

 

(105,928)

(44,653)

(6,227)

384

(156,424)

 

137,668

- Real estate and others

(34,650)

(12,888)

(1,465)

585

(48,418)

21,196

- Poles

(21,129)

(9,348)

(822)

8

(31,291)

14,636

Indefeasible right of use

(5,947)

(956)

(353)

(7,256)

4,503

Asset Retirement Obligation

 

(3,033)

(3,861)

 

(233)

 

2,463

 

(4,664)

 

37,689

Total

 

(170,687)

(71,706)

 

(9,100)

 

3,440

 

(248,053)

 

215,692

F-59

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

    

Gross value as of

    

    

    

    

December 31, 

Incorporation

Currency translation

Gross value as of

2021

by acquisition

Increases

    

adjustments

Decreases

December 31, 2022

Leases rights of use

- Sites

 

203,225

 

 

40,860

(3,460)

 

(5,805)

 

234,820

- Real estate and others

50,375

90

10,921

(311)

(2,245)

58,830

- Poles

24,152

97

7,218

(660)

30,807

Indefeasible right of use

11,457

59

(199)

11,317

Asset Retirement Obligation

 

27,581

 

 

6,328

(50)

 

(2,971)

 

30,888

Total

 

316,790

 

187

65,386

(4,680)

 

(11,021)

 

366,662

    

Accumulated

    

    

    

    

Accumulated

    

Net carrying

amortization as of

    

amortization as

value as of

December 31, 

Incorporation

Currency translation

 of December 31,

December 31,

2021

by acquisition

Amortization

adjustments

Decreases

2022

2022

Leases rights of use

 

- Sites

(70,057)

(40,997)

1,526

3,600

(105,928)

128,892

- Real estate and others

(24,025)

(6)

(13,126)

343

2,164

(34,650)

24,180

- Poles

(12,730)

(56)

(8,757)

414

(21,129)

9,678

Indefeasible right of use

(5,029)

(1,049)

131

(5,947)

5,370

Asset Retirement Obligation

 

(2,255)

 

(3,799)

 

50

 

2,971

 

(3,033)

 

27,855

Total

 

(114,096)

(62)

 

(67,728)

 

2,464

 

8,735

 

(170,687)

 

195,975

NOTE 12 – TRADE PAYABLES

As of December 31,

Current

    

2023

    

2022

Suppliers

 

351,192

 

271,766

Companies under sect. 33 – Law No. 19,550 and Related Parties (Note 27.b)

 

5,662

 

6,188

 

356,854

 

277,954

Non-current

 

 

Suppliers

 

914

 

992

 

914

 

992

Total trade payables

 

357,768

 

278,946

F-60

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

NOTE 13 – BORROWINGS

As of December 31, 

Current

    

2023

    

2022

Bank overdrafts - principal

23,514

23,698

Bank and other financial entities loans – principal

 

204,748

 

124,786

Notes – principal

188,977

147,620

DFI (Note 22)

58

Loans for purchase of equipment

15,582

16,408

Remeasurement, interest and related expenses

130,657

105,841

 

563,478

 

418,411

Non-current

 

  

 

  

Notes – principal

 

999,132

 

563,869

Bank and other financial entities loans – principal

399,680

319,466

Loans for purchase of equipment

10,725

13,874

Remeasurement, interest and related expenses

155,054

145,471

 

1,564,591

 

1,042,680

Total borrowings

 

2,128,069

 

1,461,091

Movements in Borrowings are as follows:

Exchange 

differences, 

currency 

Balances at the 

translation 

Balances as of 

beginning of the 

Net Cash

adjustments and

December 31,

    

year

    

Flows

    

Accrued 

    

 others

    

2023

Bank overdrafts

 

23,698

 

58,006

 

 

(58,190)

 

23,514

Bank and other financial entities loans – principal

 

444,252

 

(38,117)

 

 

198,293

 

604,428

Notes – principal

 

711,489

 

154,297

 

 

322,323

 

1,188,109

DFI

 

58

 

(32,356)

 

 

32,298

 

Loans for purchase of equipment

 

30,282

 

(14,569)

 

 

10,594

 

26,307

Remeasurement, interest and related expenses

 

251,312

 

(174,573)

 

9,925

 

199,047

 

285,711

Total as of December 31, 2023

1,461,091

(47,312)

9,925

(*)  704,365

2,128,069

Total as of December 31, 2022

 

1,619,141

 

(103,151)

 

40,701

(**)   (95,600)

 

1,461,091

(*)

Includes $34,104 million of loans that do not represent cash movement.

(**)

Includes $33,433 million of loans that do not represent cash movement.

The main borrowings, which are effective as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, are detailed below:

F-61

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

a)Notes

Telecom Argentina

Global Programs for the issuance of Notes

In connection with the Notes Global Program for a maximum outstanding amount of US$3,000 million or its equivalent in other currencies, the Company issued several series of Notes, which amounts and main characteristics as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 are described below:

Amount

involved

Issuance

Maturity

Interest payment

Accouting balance (in millions) (*)

Series

Currency

  

  

(in millions)

  

  

date

  

  

date

  

  

Amortization

  

  

Interest rate

  

  

date

  

  

As of December 31,

2023

  

  

2022

1

US$

    

400

    

07/2019

    

07/2026

    

In one installment at maturity date

    

Annual fixed rate of 8.00%

Semiannually

    

331,879

    

225,752

5

US$

389

08/2020

08/2025

In four installment of: 3% at 02/2023 30% at 08/2023 33% at 08/2024 34% at 08/2025

Annual fixed rate of 8.50%

Semiannually

219,488

224,662

7

UVA

125

12/2020

12/2023

In one installment at maturity date

Annual fixed rate of 3.00%

Semiannually

72,380

8

UVA

 

134

 

01/2021

 

01/2025

 

In one installment at maturity date

 

Annual fixed rate of 4.00%

Semiannually

 

62,401

 

77,643

9

 

US$linked

 

92

 

06/2021

 

06/2024

 

In one installment at maturity date

 

Annual fixed rate of 2.75%

Quarterly basis

 

74,371

 

50,669

10

UVA

 

127

 

12/2021

 

06/2025

 

In one installment at maturity date

 

0%

 

n/a

 

58,623

 

72,891

11

$

 

2,000

 

12/2021

 

06/2023

 

In one installment at maturity date

 

Variable annual rate: Badlar plus spread of 3.25%

Quarterly basis

 

 

6,462

12 (1)

 

US$linked

 

23

 

03/2022

 

03/2027

 

In one installment at maturity date

 

Annual fixed rate of 1.00%

Quarterly basis

 

85,265

 

59,407

 

US$linked

 

75

 

08/2022

 

03/2027

 

In one installment at maturity date

 

Annual fixed rate of 1.00%

Quarterly basis

13

$

 

2,348

 

03/2022

 

09/2023

 

In one installment at maturity date

 

Variable annual rate: Badlar plus spread of 1.50%

Quarterly basis

 

 

7,583

14

US$linked

62.4

02/2023

02/2028

In one installment at maturity date

Fixed rate of 1.00%

Quarterly basis

50,455

15 (2)

US$linked

87.4

06/2023

06/2026

In one installment at maturity date

0%

n/a

80,106

16 (3)

US$linked

180.4

07/2023

07/2025

In one installment at maturity date

0%

n/a

165,853

18 (4)

UVA

75

11/2023

11/2027

In one installment at maturity date

Annual fixed rate of 1.00%

Quarterly basis

43,380

19 (5) (6)

US$linked

34.6

11/2023

11/2026

In one installment at maturity date

0%

n/a

78,339

30.9

12/2023

11/2026

In one installment at maturity date

0%

n/a

(*) This accounting balances includes remeasurement, interest and related expenses.

(1)

For Series 12 Notes issued on August 16, 2022, the subscription price was above par, so that on the date of issuance, its value was $11,621 million ($45,064 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023), equivalent to US $86 million without considering the issuance expenses.

(2)

For the Series 15 Notes: the subscription price was above par, so that on the date of issuance, its value was $24,474 million ($50,580 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023), equivalent to US$102.3 million without considering the issuance expenses.

(3)

For the Series 16 Notes: the subscription price was above par, so that on the date of issuance, its value was $57,186 million ($111,133 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023), equivalent to US $213.2 million without considering the issuance expenses.

(4)

For the Series 18 Notes, the subscription price was above par, so that on the date of issuance, its value was $37,435 million ($46,968 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023), equivalent to US$213.2 million, of which the Company received funds for $56,906 million ($29,825 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023) and $13,512 million ($16,953 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023) (equivalent to 34.1 million UVAs of nominal value) through the exchange of a portion of Series 7 Notes, net of issuance expenses for $151 million ($190 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023).

(5)

For the Series 19 Notes, the subscription price was above par, so that on the date of issuance, its value was $17,058 million ($21,402 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023), equivalent to US$48.3 million without considering the issuance expenses.

(6)

For the additional Series 19 Notes, the subscription price was above par, so that on the date of issuance, its value was $18,102 million, equivalent to US$49.9 million without considering the issuance expenses.

F-62

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Núcleo

Global Programs for the issuance of Notes

In connection with the Notes Global Program for a maximum outstanding amount of up to 500,000,000,000 of Guaraníes (approximately $3,200 million as of the date of issue), Núcleo issued several series of Notes, which amounts and main characteristics as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 are described below:

Amount

Interest

Accouting balance

involved

Issuance

Maturity

payment 

(in millions) (*)

Series

Currency

date

date

Amortization

Interest rate

date

As of December  31,

(in millions)

2023

2022

1

 

Gs.

 

120,000

 

03/2019

 

03/2024

 

In one installment at maturity date

 

Annual fixed rate of 9.00

%  

Quarterly basis

 

13,234

 

8,953

2

 

Gs.

 

30,000

 

03/2019

 

03/2024

 

In one installment at maturity date

 

Annual fixed rate of 9.00

%  

Quarterly basis

 

3,296

 

2,230

3

 

Gs.

 

100,000

 

03/2020

 

03/2025

 

In one installment at maturity date

 

Annual fixed rate of 8.75

%  

Quarterly basis

 

11,042

 

7,471

4

 

Gs.

 

130,000

 

03/2021

 

01/2028

 

In one installment at maturity date

 

Annual fixed rate of 7.10

%  

Quarterly basis

 

14,558

 

9,834

5

 

Gs.

 

120,000

 

03/2021

 

01/2031

 

In one installment at maturity date

 

Annual fixed rate of 8.00

%  

Quarterly basis

 

13,452

 

9,087

(*) This accounting balances includes remeasurement, interest and related expenses.

F-63

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

b)Bank and other financing entities loans

b.1) Details of loans

Principal

Interest

Accouting balance

Entities

Currency

residual

Maturity

Amortization

Interest rate

Spread

payment 

(in millions) (*)

nominal value

date

date

As of December 31,

  

  

  

  

(in millions)

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

2023

  

  

2022

US$

94

03/2027

Semiannually

Variable annual rate:
SOF 6 months

between 4.43% and 7.18%

Semiannually

80,195

66,903

International
Finance
Corporation
(IFC)

US$

120

Between 08/2024 and 08/2025

Semiannually

Variable annual rate: SOF 6 months

between 5.03% and 5.28%

Semiannually

100,869

118,290

US$

185

08/2029 (1)

Semiannually from 08/2024

Variable annual rate: SOF 6 months

6.50%

Semiannually

153,759

103,760

Inter-American
Investment
Corporation
(IIC)

US$

17

12/2024

Semiannually

Variable annual rate: SOF 6 months

6.28%

Semiannually

14,100

19,403

Inter-American
Development
Bank
(IDB) (2)

US$

301

06/2027

Semiannually

Variable annual rate: SOF 6 months

between 7.18% and 9.18%

Semiannually

245,930

103,629

China
Development
Bank Shenzhen
Branch (CDB) (3)

RMB

1,134

12/2027

Semiannually

Annual fixed
rate of 4.95%

N/A

Semiannually

118,208

73,126

$

07/2023 (4)

In one installment at maturity date

Modified annual fixed rate 55.00

%

N/A

Monthly

12,459

Banco
Santander
Argentina S.A.

$

10/2023 (5)

In one installment at maturity date

Modified annual fixed rate 79.00

%

N/A

Monthly

4,754

(Santander)

$

07/2023 (6)

In one installment at maturity date

Modified: annual fixed rate of 44.50

%

N/A

Monthly

11,131

$

06/2023

In one installment at maturity date

Annual fixed rate of 47.00

%

N/A

Monthly

3,135

Banco BBVA Argentina S.A. (BBVA)

 

$

 

03/2023

 

In one installment at maturity date

Annual fixed rate of 43.90

%

N/A

 

Monthly

 

 

3,178

 

$

 

05/2023

 

In one installment at maturity date

Annual fixed rate of 44.85

%

N/A

 

Monthly

 

 

4,692

Finnvera (7)

 

US$

51

 

Between 11/2025 and 11/2026

 

Semiannually

 

Variable annual rate: SOF 6 months

 

between 1.47% and 1.63

%

Semiannually

 

36,728

 

34,606

Export Development Canadá (EDC) (8) (9)

 

US$

27

 

Between 12/2026 and 05/2023

 

Semiannually

 

Variable annual rate: SOF 6 months

 

between 1.63% and 6.65

%

Semiannually

 

20,130

 

8,743

BBVA (10)

$

147

 

07/2025

 

Monthly

 

Annual fixed rate of 47.90

%

N/A

 

Monthly

 

149

 

622

PSA Finance Argentina (10)

$

327

 

07/2025

 

Monthly

 

Annual fixed rate of 42.90

%

N/A

 

Monthly

 

335

 

1,418

Rombo Compañía Financiera (11)

$

233

 

07/2025

 

Monthly

 

Annual fixed rate between 70.9% and 77.9

%

N/A

Monthly

 

244

 

Banco Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (Argentina) S.A.U. (ICBC) (12)

$

08/2023

Monthly

Annual fixed rate of 4.90

%

N/A

Monthly

257

Cisco Systems Capital Corporation (Cisco) and others (13)

US$

30

 

between 10/2022 and 11/2026

 

Quarterly basis

 

Annual fixed rate of 4.00

%

N/A

 

Quarterly basis

 

27,140

 

31,072

(*) This accounting balances includes remeasurement, interest and related expenses.

(1)

In June, 2022 the Company executed a proposal for a credit line to finance the expansion of fixed and mobile network coverage with IFC for a total amount of up to US $184.5 million, as requested in a timely manner by the Company (the “Loan”). On July 15, 2022, the Company received a disbursement for a total amount of US $184.5 million ($98,834 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023) of which the Company received funds for US $181.5 million ($97,218 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023) were credited, because US $3 million ($1,616 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023) corresponding to debt issuance expenses.

(2)

On October 17, 2023, the Company subscribed two new tranches (5 and 6) under the IDB loan for a total of US $120 million, equivalent to $41,145 million ($58,236 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023), net of issuance expenses for $866 million ($1,226 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023). The funds were used to pay for the 5G spectrum.

(3)

During 2023 and 2022, the Company has subscribed new tranches for a total of RMB431.3 million ($31,298 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023) and RMB488 million ($40,308 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023), respectively.

F-64

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

(4)

In July, 2022, the Company executed an addendum to Santander loan signed on August 18, 2021 for a total amount of $4,000 million ($16,592 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023) and agreed to change the principal maturity amortization schedule that would take place on August 18, 2022, by deferring it to July 27, 2023. Additionally, a new fixed interest rate from 40.5% to 55% annual nominal was renegotiated from July 27, 2022. This transaction was recognized as a debt extinguishment, recognizing a loss of $118 million that is included in “Borrowings renegotiation results” item, within financial results. As of December 31, 2023, this loan has been cancelled.

(5)

In October, 2022, the Company executed an addendum to Santander loan signed on October 15, 2021 for a total amount of $1,500 million ($5,152 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023), and agreed to change the amortization schedule of principal maturity that would take place on October 17, 2022, by deferring it to October 17, 2023. Additionally, a new fixed interest rate from 37.75% to 79% annual nominal was renegotiated from October 17, 2022. As of December 31, 2023, this loan has been cancelled.

(6)

In March, 2023, the Company executed an addendum to Santander loan signed on March, 2022 for a total amount of $3,500 million ($8,954 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023), and agreed to change the principal maturity amortization schedule whose maturity was on March 9, 2023, by deferring it to July 10, 2023. Additionally, a new fixed interest rate from 44.5% of 73.5% annual nominal was renegotiated. This transaction was recognized as a debt refinancing, recognizing a loss of $799 million that is included in “Borrowings renegotiation results” item, within financial results, net. As of December 31, 2023, this loan was totally repaid.

(7)

During 2022, the Company received a disbursement for a total amount of US$11.4 million ($6,582 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023) of which the Company received funds for US$9.7 million ($5,634 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023), because US$1.7 million ($948 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023) corresponding to the premium equivalent to 14.41% of the total amount committed by the lenders under the credit line were deducted from the initial disbursement). With this disbursement, the total amount committed for this line of credit is completed.

(8)

On January 3, 2022, the Company submitted a proposal for an export credit line for a total amount of up to US$23.4 million to the following entities: (i) JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as initial lender, residual risk guarantor and agent of the facility, (ii) JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Buenos Aires branch as an onshore custody agent, and (iii) JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and EDC as lead co-organizers, which was accepted on the same date.

The line of credit is guaranteed by EDC, the official export credit agency of Canada. The funds received will be used to finance up to 85% of the value of certain imported goods and services, up to 50% of the value of certain national goods and services and the total payment of the EDC surplus equivalent to 14.41% of the total amount committed by the lenders under the line of credit.

During 2022, the Company received a disbursement for a total amount of US$23.3 million($12,557 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023), of which the Company received US$19.5 million($10,748 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023) net of debt issuance expenses deducted, the total amount committed for this line of credit is completed.

(9)

On May 5, 2023, the Company submitted a proposal for an export credit line for a total amount of up to US$50 million to EDC, the official export credit agency of Canada.

The funds received will be used to finance up to 100% of the payments due to “Nokia Solutions and Networks Oy” and/or “Nokia Spain S.A.”, received from August 30, 2022 until November 1, 2024.

On September 28, 2023, the first disbursement of US$12.7 million ($6,799 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023) was received, maturing in May 2030. The principal disbursed accrues compensatory interest at a semi-annual SOFR plus a margin of 6.65 percentage points.

(10)

On June 10, 2022, the Company executed a proposal for a credit line with Peugeot to finance the acquisition of 350 utility vehicles for a total amount of $1,042.7 million ($4,646 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023) plus VAT. For each acquisition, the Company will pay an advance of 40% of the value, financing the remaining 60% in 36 consecutive monthly installments at the rate agreed at the time of each acquisition through PSA Finance Argentina and/or BBVA.

(11)

On June 29, 2023, the Company executed a pledge loan with Rombo Compañia Financiera to finance 50% of the acquisition of 59 utility vehicles for a total amount of $521.2 million (VAT included) ($1,077 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023). For each acquisition, the Company agreed to pay advance payments of 50% of the value, financing the remaining 50%, equivalent to $260.6 million ($539 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023), in 24 consecutive monthly installments at the following rates: i) $80.3 million ($166 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023) at a rate of 70.9%, ii) $180.3 million ($372 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023) at a rate of 77.9%.

(12) On August 30, 2022, the Company executed a proposal for a credit line with Ford to finance the acquisition of 43 utility vehicles for a total amount of $222 million ($861 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023) plus VAT. For the acquisition, the Company was paid an advance of 50% of the value, financing the remaining 50% of $122.6 million ($475 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023) in 12 consecutive monthly installments at a fixed rate of 4.9% through ICBC. As of December 31, 2023, this loan has been cancelled.

(13)

During 2023 and 2022, the Company received a disbursement for a total of US$5 million ($2,448 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023) and US$17 million, equivalent to $1,911 million ($9,392 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023), respectively.

F-65

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

b.2) LIBOR transition

During July, 2023, the Company signed addendums to the Finnvera loan and the two loans with IFC based on US$ LIBOR in order to replace LIBO rate with SOF rate, plus a 0.42826% adjustment margin. The transition date under the addendum was in November 2023 for Finnvera loan. For IFC loans, the transition dates were on August and September 2023.

During September, 2023, the Company signed addendums to the IDB loan based on US$ LIBOR in order to replace LIBO rate with SOF rate, plus a 0.42826% adjustment margin. The transition date under the addendum was in December 2023.

The Company does not maintain any LIBOR-based loans as of December 31, 2023.

c)Compliance with covenants

The Company holds certain loans with IFC, IIC, IDB, Finnvera, EDC, and CDB, hereinafter collectively referred to as the "Lenders", which, as of December 31, 2023, amount to $769,919 million. These loans establish, among other provisions, the obligation to comply with certain financial ratios, which are calculated based on contractual definitions: i) "Net Debt/EBITDA" and ii) "EBITDA/Interest Net" on a quarterly basis, along with the presentation of the Company’s financial statements.

Considering the complexity of Argentina's economic situation, described in Note 29, which prevented the early and accurate estimation of the ratios, the Company requested and obtained from the Lenders waivers regarding the obligation to present the Net Debt/EBITDA ratio from December 31, 2023 until March 15, 2024. These waivers were conditioned upon certain obligations during the period, which have been met to date.

During March 2024, the Company requested and obtained from the Lenders new waivers effective until March 31, 2025, which allow increasing the maintenance Net Debt/EBITDA ratio above the originally established level (raising it to 3.75), for the calculation period between December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2024, establishing a net debt of US$2.700 billion on each calculation date, among other matters.

In addition, during the term of the waivers, the payment of dividends will be permitted between October 1, 2024 and December 31, 2024, for a maximum amount of US$100 million, while in compliance with a maintenance Net Debt/EBITDA ratio of less than 3.

The Company has complied with the Net Debt/EBITDA ratio established in the waiver obtained in March 2024, and is also in compliance with the rest of the commitments assumed and in force on the date of issuance of these consolidated financial statements.

NOTE 14 – SALARIES AND SOCIAL SECURITY PAYABLES

As of December 31, 

Current

    

2023

    

2022

Salaries, annual complementary salaries, vacation, bonuses and their social security payables

87,063

109,198

Termination benefits

4,077

8,054

91,140

117,252

Non-current

Termination benefits

3,729

8,554

3,729

8,554

Total salaries and social security payables

94,869

125,806

Compensation for the Key Managers of Telecom for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 are shown in Note 27.d).

F-66

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

NOTE 15 – INCOME TAX PAYABLE AND DEFERRED INCOME TAX ASSETS/LIABILITIES

Income tax payable by company is presented below:

As of December 31,

    

2023

    

2022

Núcleo

 

1,262

 

782

NYSSA

148

125

Adesol

 

104

 

60

Pem

 

38

 

6

Opalker

10

3

 

(*) 1,562

 

976

(*)Includes $ (2,808) million corresponding to the currency translation adjustments on initial balances of foreign subsidiaries, RECPAM and to compensation made with tax credits.

Deferred Income tax assets and liabilities, net and the actions for recourse tax receivable are presented below:

As of December 31, 

    

2023

    

2022

Tax carryforward

 

(494,367)

 

(94,690)

Allowance for doubtful accounts

 

(16,783)

 

(27,971)

Legal Claims and contingent liabilities

(7,316)

(9,386)

PP&E, intangible assets and right of use assets

 

622,539

 

666,335

Cash dividends from foreign companies

 

13,632

 

7,589

Income tax inflation adjustment effect

 

330,668

 

256,107

Other deferred tax liabilities (assets), net

 

(158)

 

(5,050)

Total deferred tax liabilities, net

 

448,215

 

792,934

Actions for recourse tax receivable

 

(888)

 

(2,765)

Total deferred tax liability, net

(*)

447,327

 

790,169

Net deferred tax assets

 

(13,815)

 

(7,698)

Net deferred tax liabilities

 

461,142

 

797,867

(*)

Includes $ (1,901) million of currency translation adjustments on foreign subsidiaries’ initial balances.

As of December 31, 2023, Telecom Argentina and some subsidiaries have cumulative tax loss carryforwards of $1,412,864 million (including $248 million of unrecognized tax loss carryforwards for considering them non-recoverable), that calculated considering statutory income tax rate, represent a deferred tax asset of $494,367 million.

F-67

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

The detail of the maturities of estimated tax carryforward is disclosed:

Tax carryforward

Company

    

Tax carryforward 

    

 amount as of

    

Tax carryforward 

generation year

 12.31.2023

expiration year

Telecom

2022

307,623

2027

Telecom

2023

1,083,494

2028

Micro Sistemas

2021

240

2026

Micro Sistemas

2022

3,424

2027

Micro Sistemas

2023

17,505

2028

Interradios

2023

3

2028

Ubiquo

2022

128

No deadline

Ubiquo

2023

199

No deadline

AVC Continente Audiovisual

2021

 

3

2026

AVC Continente Audiovisual

2022

37

2027

AVC Continente Audiovisual

2023

135

2028

Cable Imagen

2021

6

2026

Cable Imagen

2022

16

2027

Cable Imagen

 

2023

 

51

 

2028

 

1,412,864

Income tax benefit (expense) differed from the amounts computed by applying the Company’s statutory income tax rate to pre-tax income as a result of the following:

Years ended December 31, 

 

    

2023

    

2022

    

2021

 

Profit (loss)

Income (loss) before income tax expense

(587,944)

(722,915)

262,399

Non-taxable items – Earnings from associates and joint ventures

1,888

(2,550)

(2,398)

Non-taxable items – Impairment of Goodwill charges

759,722

4,045

Non-taxable items – Other

1,299

4,771

(6,901)

Restatement in current currency of Equity, Goodwill and others

1,016,337

779,531

616,961

Subtotal

431,580

818,559

874,106

Effective income tax rate

33.65

%

34.41

%

34.34

%

Income tax expense at statutory tax rate of each subsidiary

(145,208)

(281,689)

(300,149)

Deferred tax liability restatement in current currency and others

924,425

674,272

357,714

Income tax inflation adjustment

(429,765)

(306,768)

(254,280)

Actions for recourse

(3)

44

Income tax on cash dividends of foreign companies

(11,195)

(3,276)

(5,434)

Income tax benefit (expense) (*)

338,257

82,536

(202,105)

Current tax

(2,899)

54,562

(113,011)

Deferred tax

341,156

27,974

(89,094)

Income tax benefit (expense)

338,257

82,536

(202,105)

(*)In 2023 includes $ (571) million corresponding to the adjustment made in the Income tax affidavit of 2022.

In 2022 includes $57,891 million corresponding to the adjustment made in the Income tax affidavit of 2021, which includes, among others, the effects related to the full application of the tax inflation adjustment mechanisms detailed in “Income Tax – Inflation Adjustment for Tax Purposes”.

In 2021 includes the effect of the change in the income tax rate provided for in Law No. 27,630 generated by the recalculation of the tax impact on balances at the beginning and on the result of the period, for approximately $(357,066) million.

F-68

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Income tax - Actions for recourse filed with the Tax Authority

During 2015 and 2022, Telecom Argentina filed actions for recourse with the AFIP to claim the full tax overpaid for fiscal years from 2009 to 2017 for a total amount of approximately $2,039 million plus interest, under the argument that the lack of application of the income tax inflation adjustment is confiscatory based on the similarities with the parameters put forward in the matter of “Candy S.A.” as in the matter of “Distribuidora Gas del Centro”, heard by the National Supreme Court of Justice in whose verdicts, the Supreme Court ruled for the application of the inflation adjustment mechanism for the 2002 fiscal year.

In the years 2019, 2021 and 2022, the AFIP has rejected the actions for recourse corresponding to fiscal years 2009 to 2013 and 2015.Therefore, Telecom filed four actions for recourse before the National Court of First Instance.

The Company’s Management, with the assistance of its tax advisors, understands that the arguments presented by the Company follow the same criteria as those considered by the Supreme Court of Justice in similar precedents, among others. Therefore, the Company should obtain a favorable resolution to such claims.

Consequently, the Company maintained a non-current tax credit of $888 million as of December 31, 2023. For the measurement and update of the tax credit, the Company has estimated the amount of the tax determined in excess for the years 2009-2017 weighting the likelihood according to the jurisprudential antecedents known as of the date of these consolidated financial statements.

Income Tax – Inflation Adjustment for Tax Purposes

Given the judicial precedents detailed above related to the different mechanisms used to recognize the effect of inflation in the assessment of income tax, on May 6, 2022, the Company filed the income tax return corresponding to fiscal year 2021, taking into account the restatement of the tax amortization of all its fixed and intangible assets pursuant to Articles 87 and 88 of the Income Tax Law and applying the tax loss carry-forwards from previous years in accordance with the restatement mechanism provided under Article 25 of such Law.

Taxes were so assessed because failure to apply the above-mentioned inflation adjustment mechanisms for tax purposes would result in actual taxable income that would yield an effective tax rate for fiscal year 2021 that qualifies as confiscatory. If the Company had not fully applied the inflation adjustment mechanisms for tax purposes, the income tax due would have absorbed 100% of the Company’s taxable income and would have even absorbed part of the equity value that generates said taxable income, yielding an effective tax rate of 146.6%.This would have exceeded any reasonable limits to the burden of taxation, thus qualifying as confiscatory and seriously infringing Telecom’s constitutional guarantees and rights.

Therefore, together with its income tax return for the 2021 fiscal period 2021, the Company made a filing with the AFIP, protected by tax secrecy procedural regulations, in order to safeguard its rights, in the spirit of transparency that guides Telecom’s actions.

As a consequence of the foregoing, the income tax due for the year 2022 includes a decrease of $7,517 million ($39,287 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023), assessed taking into account the weighted probability of occurrence, based on the above-mentioned judicial precedents.

The Company’s Management, with the assistance of its tax advisors, believes that the arguments presented by the Company in its filing with the AFIP follow the same criteria as those disclosed under “Income Tax – Reimbursement Claims filed with the Tax Authority” which were considered by the Supreme Court of Justice in the precedents cited above, among others. Therefore, the Company believes that it has strong grounds to defend the criteria applied.

F-69

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

NOTE 16 –OTHER TAXES PAYABLES

As of December 31, 

Current

    

2023

    

2022

Other national taxes

33,194

25,438

Provincial taxes

4,162

2,925

Municipal taxes

1,792

2,563

39,148

30,926

Non- current

Provincial taxes

11

138

11

138

Total other taxes payables

39,159

31,064

NOTE 17 – LEASES LIABILITIES

As of December 31, 

Current

    

2023

    

2022

Argentina

 

26,981

 

27,958

Abroad

 

1,755

 

698

 

28,736

 

28,656

Non- current

 

 

Argentina

 

45,331

 

53,518

Abroad

 

14,578

 

7,813

 

59,909

 

61,331

Total lease liabilities

 

88,645

 

89,987

Movements in the lease liabilities are as follows:

Years ended

December 31,

    

2023

    

2022

Balances at the beginning of the year

 

89,987

 

114,742

Incorporate by acquisition

 

 

125

Increases (*)

71,844

58,999

Financial results, net (**)

 

39,901

 

23,946

Payments

 

(44,192)

 

(47,521)

Decreases (included RECPAM and currency translation adjustments)

 

(68,895)

 

(60,304)

At the end of the year

 

88,645

 

89,987

(*)Included in acquisitions of Rights of use.

(**)Included in Other foreign currency exchange gains (losses) and Other interests, net.

F-70

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

NOTE 18 – OTHER LIABILITIES

As of December 31, 

Current

    

2023

    

2022

Deferred revenues on prepaid credit

7,956

8,156

Deferred revenues on connection fees and international capacity leases

1,724

4,200

Debt for acquisition of NYSSA

567

613

Companies under section 33 - Law No. 19,550 and related parties (Note 27.b)

2,358

Funds to be paid to customers

7,219

1,610

Other

636

867

20,460

15,446

Non-current

Deferred revenues on connection fees and international capacity leases

1,526

2,602

Pension benefits

2,249

2,736

Debt for acquisition of NYSSA

4,133

Companies under section 33 - Law No. 19,550 and related parties (Note 27.b)

1,026

1,614

Other

108

1,173

9,042

8,125

Total Other liabilities

29,502

23,571

Movements in the pension benefits are as follows:

Years ended

December 31, 

    

2023

    

2022

At the beginning of the year

2,736

3,924

Service cost (*)

151

166

Interest cost (**)

1,856

1,267

Actuarial results (***)

420

(87)

RECPAM

(2,914)

(2,534)

At the end of the year

2,249

2,736

(*)

Included in Employee benefit expenses and severance payments.

(**)

Included in Other Financial result, net.

(***)

Included in Other comprehensive income (loss).

NOTE 19 – PROVISIONS

The Company evaluates and reviews each contingency applying the criteria indicated in Note 3.q) and 3.u.5).

The evolution of provisions as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 is as follows:

Additions

RECPAM,

currency

Balances

Balances as

Capital

Financial

Payments

translation

as of

of December 31,

result

adjustments

December 31,

    

2022

    

(i)

    

(ii)

    

Reclassifications

    

and others

    

2023

Current

Legal Claims and contingent liabilities

8,201

9,889

12,695

(26,018)

573

5,340

Total current provisions

8,201

9,889

12,695

(26,018)

573

5,340

Non- Current

  

  

  

  

  

Legal Claims and contingent liabilities

20,261

11,665

10,373

(12,695)

(4)

(16,793)

12,807

Asset retirement obligations

16,031

13,775

(16,496)

13,310

Total non-current provisions

36,292

25,440

10,373

(12,695)

(4)

(33,289)

26,117

Total provisions

44,493

35,329

10,373

(26,022)

(32,716)

31,457

F-71

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Additions

RECPAM,

Financial

currency

Balances as 

Capital

result

Payments

translation

Balances

of

adjustments and

as of

    

December 31, 2021

    

(iii)

(iv)

    

Reclassifications

    

    

others

    

December 31, 2022

Current

Legal Claims and contingent liabilities

13,017

24,137

20,765

(48,894)

(824)

8,201

Total current provisions

    

13,017

24,137

20,765

(48,894)

(824)

8,201

Non- Current

 

 

Legal Claims and contingent liabilities

 

37,061

12,923

5,907

(20,765)

(14,864)

 

20,261

Asset retirement obligations

21,017

6,328

(11,315)

16,031

Total non-current provisions

 

58,078

19,251

5,907

(20,765)

(26,179)

 

36,292

Total provisions

 

71,095

43,388

5,907

(48,894)

(27,003)

 

44,493

(i)$21,554 million charged to Other operating expenses and $13,775 million charged to Right of use assets.

(ii)

Charged to Other foreign currency exchange gains (losses) and Other interests, net.

(iii)

$37,033 million charged to Other operating expenses, $27 million charged to Other receivables current and $6,328 million charged to Right of use assets.

(iv)

Charged to Other interests, net.

Below is a summary of the most significant claims and legal actions for which the Company, based on the advice of its legal counsel and the judicial background for each claim, has considers probable and/or possible based on IAS 37:

1.    Probable Contingent liabilities

a)   Profit sharing bonds

Various legal actions are brought, mainly by former employees of the Company against the Argentine government and Telecom Argentina, requesting that Decree No. 395/92 – which expressly exempted Telefónica and the Company from issuing the profit-sharing bonds provided in Law No. 23,696 – be struck down as unconstitutional. The plaintiffs also claim the compensation for damages they suffered because such bonds have not been issued.

In August 2008, the Supreme Court of Justice not only found Decree No. 395/92 unconstitutional when resolving a similar case against Telefónica but also ordered that the proceedings be remanded to the court of origin so that such court shall decide which defendant must pay —the licensee and/or the Argentine government— and set the parameters that are to be taken into account in order to quantify the remedies requested (percent of profit sharing, statute of limitations criteria, distribution method between the program beneficiaries, among others). There are no uniform criteria among the Courts in relation to each of these concepts.

Following the Supreme Court of Justice’s decision, several Courts of Appeals have ruled that Decree No. 395/92 is unconstitutional. As a result, in the opinion of Telecom Argentina’s counsel, there is an increased probability that the Company will have to face certain contingencies, notwithstanding the reimbursement right to which Telecom Argentina would be entitled against the National Government.

On June 9, 2015, in re “Ramollino Silvana c/Telecom Argentina S.A.”, the Supreme Court of Justice ruled that the profit-sharing bonds do not apply to employees who joined the Company after November 8, 1990 and who were not members of the PPP.

This judicial precedent is consistent with the criterion followed by the Company for estimating provisions for these claims, based on the advice of its legal counsel, which considered remote the chances of paying compensation to employees who were not included in the PPP.

Statute of limitations criteria applied to claims: Supreme Court of Justice ruling “Dominguez v. Telefónica de Argentina S.A.”

In December 2013, the Supreme Court of Justice rendered a decision on a case similar to the above-referred legal actions, “Domínguez v. Telefónica de Argentina S.A.” In said case, the Supreme Court of Justice overturned a lower court ruling which had barred the claim as having exceeded the applicable statute of limitations because ten years had passed since the issuance of Decree No. 395/92.

F-72

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

On December 30, 2021, the Court of Appeals on Federal Civil and Commercial Matters issued a decision in plenary session, whereby it acknowledged, interpreting the doctrine developed by the Supreme Court of Justice in its ruling, that the statute of limitations must be applied periodically –as from the date of each balance sheet- but limited to five years, applying the specific regulations on the statute of limitations for periodical liabilities.

Criteria for determining the relevant profit to calculate compensation: ruling of the Court of Appeals on Federal Civil and Commercial Matters in Plenary Session “Parota c/ Estado Nacional y Telefónica de Argentina S.A.”

On February 27, 2014, the Court of Appeals on Federal Civil and Commercial Matters issued its decision in plenary session in the case “Parota, César c/ Estado Nacional”, as a result of a claim filed against Telefónica. In its ruling, the Court held “that the amount of profit-sharing bonds corresponding to former employees of Telefónica de Argentina should be calculated based on the taxable income of Telefónica de Argentina S.A. on which the income tax liability is to be assessed”.

Federación Argentina de las Telecomunicaciones and Other v. Telecom Argentina S.A. on profit-sharing

In June 2013, the Company was served notice of this claim. The lawsuit was filed by four unions claiming the issuance of profit-sharing bonds (hereinafter “the bonds”) for future periods and for periods for which the statute of limitations is not expired. To enforce this claim, the plaintiffs have requested that the court declare that Decree No. 395/92 is unconstitutional.

This collective lawsuit is for an unspecified amount. The plaintiffs presented the criteria that should be applied for the determination of the percentage of participation in the Company’s profit. The lawsuit requiring the issuance of a profit-sharing bond represents an obligation with potential future economic impact for the Company.

The Company filed its response to the claim, arguing that labor courts lack jurisdiction over the matter. In December 2017, the Court of First Instance dismissed the claim on the grounds that the claimant lacks standing because the claim is individual and not collective. The claimant filed an appeal, which is pending before Chamber VII of the Court of Appeals.

In June 2019, the Court of Appeals revoked the decision rendered by the Court of First Instance, returned the file, and ordered discovery proceedings.

The Company, based on the advice of its legal counsel, believes that there are strong arguments to defend its position in this claim, based, among other things, on the application of the statutes of limitations to the claim relating to the unconstitutionality of Decree No. 395/92, the lack of active legal standing for a collective claim relating to the issuance of bonds —due to the existence of individual claims— in addition to arguments based on plaintiff’s lack of active legal standing.

b)   Task Solutions v. Telecom Personal S.A. on Ordinary proceeding and Task Solutions v. Telecom Argentina S.A. on Ordinary proceeding

Task Solutions S.A., a company devoted to providing contact centers, brought claims against Telecom Argentina and Telecom Personal, claiming damages that it alleges to have suffered during the contractual relationship with those companies, as well as for the failure to renew those contracts at the end of their term. In August 2018, the Company answered the claims rejecting the compensation claimed and requesting that the punitive damages claimed be declared unconstitutional.

In December 2018, Task Solutions was declared bankrupt.

Finally, on August 1, 2023, the decision to have the case dismissed in the first instance due to failure to prosecute within the legal time limits became final, which was ratified by the Court of Appeals. No appeal has been filed before the Supreme Court of Argentina in this regard.

c)   Sanctions Imposed by the Regulator

The Company is subject to various sanction procedures, in most cases promoted by the Regulatory Authority, for delays in repairs and service installations to fixed-line customers.

F-73

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

d)   Asociación por la Defensa de Usuarios y Consumidores vs. Telecom Personal S.A.” claim

In 2008, the “Asociación por la Defensa de Usuarios y Consumidores” sued Personal, seeking damages for an unspecified amount, in connection with the billing of calls to the automatic answering machine and the collection system called “send to end”, in collective representation of an undetermined number of Personal customers. The court has to render judgment on this claim.

In 2015, the Company learned of an adverse court ruling in a similar lawsuit, promoted by the same consumer’s association against another mobile operator.

On November 9, 2023, there was a first instance ruling where the Company was partially condemned to recognize credits in favor of a group of customer to be determined, but only for a limited period of time, between the years 2004 and 2005. The ruling was appealed.

2.     Possible Contingencies

In addition to the possible contingencies related to regulatory matters described in Note 2.d), the following is a summary of the most significant claims and legal actions for which the Company’s Management did not set up any provision, although the final outcome of these lawsuits cannot be assured.

a)     Radioelectric Spectrum Fees

In October 2016, Personal modified the criteria used for the statement of some of its commercial plans (“Abono fijo”) for purposes of paying the radioelectric spectrum fees (derecho de uso de espectro radioeléctrico or “DER”), taking into account certain changes in such plans’ composition. This meant a reduction in the amount of fees paid by Personal.

In March 2017, ENACOM demanded Personal to rectify its statements corresponding to October 2016, requiring that such plans’ statements continue to be prepared based on the previous criteria. ENACOM issued a similar order in September 2018 for the subsequent periods. The Company’s Management believes that it has solid legal arguments to defend its position. Such arguments were actually confirmed in the recitals of Resolution ENACOM No. 840/18. Therefore, Telecom filed the corresponding administrative responses.

In August 2017, Personal received the notice of charge for the differences in the amounts owed in connection with the payment made in October 2016. Notwithstanding the grounds disclosed in its response, in April 2019, ENACOM imposed a sanction on the Company due to the non-compliance alleged for that period. The Company filed the corresponding administrative response. However, the company cannot assure that its arguments will be accepted by ENACOM.

The difference resulting from both criteria since October 2016 is of approximately $717 million plus interest as of December 31, 2023.

On February 27, 2018, ENACOM Resolutions Nos. 840/18 and 1,196/18 were published in the Official Gazette. Through these Resolutions, ENACOM updated the value of the Radioelectric Spectrum Fee per Unit and, in addition, established a new regime for mobile communication services, which substantially increased the amounts to be paid for such service.

Telecom filed the restated returns for March and April 2018 (due in April and May 2018) and paid (under protest) the corresponding amounts. It also started to comply, as from September 2018, with the filing and payment (under protest) of the corresponding returns.

b)    “Consumidores Financieros Asociación Civil para su Defensa” claim

In November 2011, Personal was notified of a lawsuit filed by the “Consumidores Financieros Asociación Civil para su Defensa” claiming that Personal made allegedly abusive charges to its customers by implementing per-minute billing and setting an expiration date for prepaid telecommunication cards.

Personal rejected the claim, with emphasis on the regulatory framework that explicitly endorses its practices, now challenged by the plaintiff in disregard of such regulations.

F-74

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

The proceeding is now in the discovery stage. However, the judge has ordered the accumulation of this claim with two other similar claims against Telefónica Móviles Argentina S.A. and América Móvil S.A..Therefore, the three legal actions will continue within the Federal Civil and Commercial Court No. 9.

The plaintiffs are seeking damages for an unspecified amount. While the Company believes there are strong defenses that should result in a dismissal of the claim, in the absence of judicial precedents on the matter, the Company’s Management (with the advice of its legal counsel) has classified the claim as possible until a judgment is rendered.

c)    Proceedings related to value added services - Mobile contents

In October 2015, Personal was notified of a claim brought by the consumer association “Cruzada Cívica para la defensa de los consumidores y usuarios de Servicios públicos”.

The plaintiff’s claim relates to the manner in which content and trivia games are contracted, requesting the application of punitive damages to Personal.

As of the date of these consolidated financial statements, this claim for an unspecified amount is in its preliminary stages because notice of the claim has not been served on all interested parties.

Based on the advice of its legal counsel, the Company’s Management believes to have strong arguments for its defense. However, given the absence of any case law, the final outcome of these claims cannot be assured.

d)     Claims filed by unions in connection with union contributions

The unions FOEESITRA, SITRATEL, SILUJANTEL, SOEESIT, FOETRA, SUTTACH, and the Union of Telephone Workers and Employees of Tucumán brought seven legal actions against Telecom claiming unpaid union contributions set forth in their respective collective bargaining agreements, corresponding to employees of third-party companies that provide services to the Company, for a 5-year term for which the statute of limitations has not expired, plus damages caused by the failure to pay said contributions. The items claimed are “Fondo Especial” (special fund) and “Contribución Solidaria” (solidarity contribution).

The above-mentioned unions argue that Telecom is jointly and severally liable for the payment of the above-mentioned contributions. Telecom answered all the claims.

In the action brought by FOEESITRA, the judge of first instance rejected the summons to third parties made by Telecom. An appeal has been filed against that decision.

In the action brought by FOETRA, the Court of Appeals revoked the decision rendered by the court of first instance that had declared the incompetence. The judge of first instance must render a decision on the exceptions filed by Telecom

The other claims have been suspended at the request of the parties.

The unions are seeking damages for an unspecified amount.

Even though the Company’s Management believes that there are sound grounds for the favorable resolution of these claims, given the lack of judicial precedents, the final outcome of these claims cannot be assured.

e)     Asociación por la Defensa de Usuarios y Consumidores v. Cablevisión on expedited summary proceeding

In November 2018, the Company was served notice of a claim brought by Asociación por la Defensa de Usuarios y Consumidores. The Claimant requested that the defendant: 1) cease its practice of preventing customers from terminating Internet and cable television services when customers request such termination; 2) reimburse to each user the amounts collected for the period of five years and until the date on which the defendant ceases the above-mentioned practice; and 3) pay punitive damages for each of the affected customers.

F-75

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

In December 2018, the Company filed a response, alleging the application of statutes of limitation (two-year term) as well as the lack of standing of the Association to file the lawsuit. It requested that the claim be rejected in its entirety, and that the legal costs be borne by the plaintiff.

The plaintiffs are seeking damages for an unspecified amount.

Based on the advice of its legal counsel, the Company believes to have strong arguments for its defense. However, the final outcome of this claim cannot be assured.

f)    Claim “Unión de Usuarios y Consumidores and Other v. Telecom Argentina S.A.”

On September 3, 2019, Telecom was served notice of a class action brought by “Unión de Usuarios y Consumidores” and “Consumidores Libres Cooperativa Ltda. De Provisión de Servicios de Acción Comunitaria”, pending before the Commercial Court of First Instance No. 9, Clerk’s Office No. 17, for an unspecified amount.

Claimants seek to obtain an order against the Company for the reimbursement of the price increases collected from its subscribers in September and October 2018 and in January 2019 and of any price increase that may be collected for the duration of the proceedings (for timely provided services under the brands Cablevisión and Fibertel), plus interest accrued until the effective reimbursement date. Claimants allege that the defendant infringed certain provisions set forth under the General Rules Governing ICT Services Customers and Law No. 24,240 related to the terms and form of notice to subscribers of changes in the prices of such services.

Based on the advice of its legal counsel, the Company believes to have strong arguments for its defense. However, the final outcome of this claim cannot be assured.

g)    Resolution No. 50/10 et seq. issued by the Secretaría de Comercio Interior de la Nación (Secretariat of Domestic Trade or “SCI”)

SCI Resolution No. 50/10 approved certain rules for the sale of pay television services. These rules provide that cable television operators must apply a formula to calculate their monthly basic subscription prices. The Company filed an administrative appeal against Resolution No. 50/10 requesting the suspension of its effects and its nullification.

In accordance with the decision rendered on August 1, 2011 in re “LA CAPITAL CABLE S.A. v/ Ministry of Economy-SCI “, the Federal Court of Appeals of the City of Mar del Plata ordered the SCI to suspend the application of Resolution No. 50/10 with respect to all cable television licensees represented by the Argentine Cable Television Association (“ATVC”, for its Spanish acronym). The National Government filed an appeal such resolution, which was dismissed. The National Government filed a direct appeal with the Supreme Court of Justice, which has also been dismissed.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, between March 2011 and October 2014, several resolutions based on Resolution No. 50/10 were published in the Official Gazette, which regulated the prices to be charged by Cablevisión to its customers for the basic cable television service. The Company filed appeals against these resolutions and their enforcement was suspended pursuant to the above-mentioned injunction.

In September 2014, the Supreme Court of Justice rendered a decision in re “Municipality of Berazategui v. Cablevisión” and ordered that the cases related to these resolutions continue under the jurisdiction of the Federal Court of Appeals of Mar del Plata that had issued the decision on the collective action in favor of ATVC. Currently, all the claims related to this matter are pending before the Federal Courts of Mar del Plata.

In April 2019, La Capital Cable S.A. was served notice of the decision rendered by Federal Court No. 2 of Mar del Plata, whereby said court declared the unconstitutionality of certain articles of the law on which the SCI grounded Resolution No. 50/10 as well as the subsequent resolutions. The declaration of unconstitutionality entails that these resolutions are not applicable to La Capital Cable and the companies represented by ATVC. However, the National Government filed an appeal against said resolution.

F-76

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

On December 26, 2019, the Federal Court of Mar del Plata rejected the grievances of the National Government and confirmed the decision rendered by the court of first instance which declared the unconstitutionality of the sections of the law based on which the SCI issued Resolution No. 50/10 and the subsequent resolutions. The National Government and ENACOM filed extraordinary appeals, which although they were granted during 2021, are still pending before the Supreme Court of Justice.

The Company, with the assistance of its legal advisors, is evaluating the potential impacts in light of those developments. Notwithstanding the foregoing, it believes that, considering the case law, it has strong grounds for the favorable resolution of this lawsuit.

3.     Gain Contingencies

“AFA Plus Project” Claim

On July 20, 2012, the Company entered into an agreement with the Argentine Football Association (“AFA”), for the provision of services for a system called “Argentine Football System Administration” (“AFA Plus Project”), therefore, in compliance with its contractual obligations, the Company has made investments and incurred expenses.

In September 2014, AFA notified the Company of its decision to terminate the agreement, modifying the AFA Plus Project, and also informed that it will assume the payment of the investments and expenditures incurred by the Company. Accordingly, negotiations between the parties have started.

Although, during 2015, AFA made various proposals to compensate the investments and expenditures incurred by Telecom through advertising barter transactions exclusively related to the AFA Plus Project (or the one that replaces this Project in the future), the Company did not accept it because it considered it insufficient. Consequently, in October 2015, the Company formally demanded that AFA pay the amounts owed.

During 2016 and 2018, the Company initiated certain mandatory pre-judicial mediation procedures which were finished without agreement. On December 19, 2018, the Company brought a claim against AFA for $ 353 million plus interest and court costs.

At this time, the judge has ordered discovery proceedings.

The Company’s Management, with the assistance of its external advisor, believes that the company has solid legal arguments to support its claim and is evaluating the necessary actions to recover the investments made and expenses incurred.

The Company recorded a provision derived from the uncertainties related to the recoverable value of the assets related to the AFA Plus Project and in no way implies that Telecom has waived or limited its rights as a genuine creditor under the agreement.

NOTE 20 – PURCHASE COMMITMENTS

The Company has entered into various purchase commitments with domestic and foreign suppliers amounting to approximately $586,790 million as of December 31, 2023 (of which $139,154 million corresponds to Fixed Assets commitments). These purchase commitments include those that contain “take or pay” clauses, which force the buyer to purchase a quantity of a product or service in a period, usually annually, or, alternatively, to pay that amount even if it has not been taken or accepted to receive it.

F-77

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

NOTE 21 – EQUITY

(a)Capital Stock

As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the total capital stock of Telecom Argentina amounted to $2,153,688,011, represented by the same number of common book-entry shares with nominal value of $1, as detailed below:

Class of Shares

    

Total

Class “A”

 

683,856,600

Class “B”

 

628,058,019

Class “C”

 

106,734

Class “D”

 

841,666,658

Total

 

2,153,688,011

As of the date of these consolidated financial statements, all the shares of Telecom Argentina are authorized by the CNV for public offering.

Class B Shares are listed and traded on the leading companies’ panel of the BYMA and the American Depositary Shares (ADS) representing five Class “B” shares of the Company are traded on the NYSE under the symbol TEO.

(b)Provisions of the Telecom Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ meeting

At the Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting held on April 27, 2023, the shareholders of Telecom decided, among other:

(i)To approve the Board of Directors’ proposal stated in current currency as of March 31, 2023 using the National Consumer Price Index pursuant to CNV Resolution No. 777/18 in connection with the Accumulated Deficit as of December 31, 2022 for $207,832,672,505 ($647,208 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023). The Board proposed: i) to reclassify from retained earnings to “Contributed Surplus” $273,927,247,113 ($853,028 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023) resulting from the adjustment for the loss of the higher value allocated to the assets and liabilities identified and incorporated as of the date of merger, which gave rise to the creation of the Contributed Surplus, (ii) to appropriate to the “Voluntary reserve to maintain the Company’s level of capital expenditures and its current solvency level” the total amount of the difference in the accumulated deficit for $66,094,574,608 ($205,820 million in current currency as of December 31,2023);
(ii)to delegate on the Board of Directors the power to reverse before December 31, 2023 the “Voluntary reserve to maintain the Company’s level of capital expenditures and its current solvency level” in an amount that will allow to distribute the 2030 Global Bonds as non-cash dividends for up to a nominal amount of US$473,623,896. For further information on the distribution of dividends, see Note 4.b) “Dividend paid -Distribution of non-cash dividends”.

(c)Share Ownership Plan

In 1992, a Decree from the Argentine government, which provided for the creation of the Company upon the privatization of ENTel, established that 10% of the capital stock then represented by 98,438,098 Class “C” shares were to be included in the PPP (an employee share ownership program sponsored by the Argentine government). During the following years, both the Shareholders’ Assembly and the Board of Directors (based on the powers delegated by the Shareholders) carried out the conversion of Class “C” shares for a total of 98,331,364.

As of the date of these consolidated financial statements, 106,734 Class “C” shares are still pending to be converted into Class “B” shares.

F-78

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

(d)Restrictions on distribution of profits

Under the LGS, the by-laws of the Company and rules and regulations of the CNV, a minimum of 5% of net income for the year in accordance with the statutory books, plus/less previous years’ adjustments and accumulated losses, if any, must be appropriated by resolution of the shareholders to a legal reserve until such reserve reaches 20% of the outstanding capital (common stock plus inflation adjustment of common stock).

NOTE 22 – FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

a)Categories of financial assets and financial liabilities

The following tables set out, for financial assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, their category of financial instrument and the details of profits and losses generated according to each category.

Fair value

    

    

accounted

    

accounted

    

through

through other

Amortized

 profit or

comprehensive

As of December 31, 2023

cost

 loss

Income

Total

Assets

  

  

  

Cash and cash equivalents

126,516

33,258

159,774

Investments

12,110

111,859

123,969

Trade receivables

133,120

133,120

Other receivables

21,615

10

1,986

23,611

Total

293,361

145,127

1,986

440,474

Liabilities

  

Trade payables

357,768

357,768

Borrowings

2,128,069

2,128,069

Leases liabilities

88,645

88,645

Other liabilities

14,346

1,593

15,939

Total

2,588,828

1,593

2,590,421

Fair value

    

    

accounted

    

accounted

    

through

through other

Amortized

profit or

comprehensive

As of December 31, 2022

cost

loss

Income

Total

Assets

  

  

  

  

Cash and cash equivalents

99,563

25,162

124,725

Investments

26,074

26,074

Trade receivables

117,507

117,507

Other receivables

5,585

7,631

990

14,206

Total

222,655

58,867

990

282,512

Liabilities

  

Trade payables

278,946

278,946

Borrowings

1,461,033

1,185

(1,127)

1,461,091

Leases liabilities

89,987

89,987

Other liabilities

2,453

2,227

4,680

Total

1,832,419

3,412

(1,127)

1,834,704

F-79

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Gains and losses by category – Year 2023

    

Net gain/(loss)

    

Of which interest

Financial assets at amortized cost

63,196

24,823

Financial liabilities at amortized cost

(758,092)

(22,142)

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

88,770

64,323

Financial liabilities at amortized cost through profit or loss

(31,136)

Total

(637,262)

67,004

Gains and losses by category – Year 2022

    

Net gain/(loss)

    

Of which interest

Financial assets at amortized cost

18,143

14,216

Financial liabilities at amortized cost

63,960

(51,759)

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

(29,848)

(2,283)

Financial liabilities at amortized cost through profit or loss

(17,233)

Total

35,022

(39,826)

Gains and losses by category – Year 2021

    

Net gain/(loss)

    

Of which interest

Financial assets at amortized cost

 

38,403

 

8,025

Financial liabilities at amortized cost

 

159,397

 

(134,267)

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

 

4,288

 

570

Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

 

(17,124)

 

Total

 

184,964

 

(125,672)

b)Fair value hierarchy and other disclosures

The Company presents the judgments and estimates made to determine the fair values of the financial instruments that are recognized and measured at fair value in its consolidated financial statements.

The measurement at fair value of the financial instruments of Telecom are classified according to the three levels set out in IFRS 13:

-

Level 1: Fair value determined by quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

-

Level 2: Fair value determined based on inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly (e.g., as prices) or indirectly (e.g., derived from prices).

-

Level 3: Fair value determined by unobservable inputs where the reporting entity is required to develop its own assumptions.

F-80

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Financial assets and liabilities recognized at fair value as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, and the level of hierarchy are listed below:

As of December 31, 2023

    

Level 1

    

Level 2

    

Total

Assets

 

  

 

  

 

  

Current Assets

 

  

 

  

 

  

Mutual Funds (1) (2)

 

14,426

 

 

14,426

Government bonds (1) (2)

 

130,691

 

 

130,691

Other receivables: DFI (3)

 

 

1,549

 

1,549

Other receivables: Indemnification assets (4)

 

 

10

 

10

Non-current Assets

 

 

 

Other receivables: DFI (3)

 

 

437

 

437

Total assets

 

145,117

 

1,996

 

147,113

Liabilities

 

  

 

  

 

  

Current Liabilities

 

  

 

  

 

  

Other liabilities: Debt for acquisition of NYSSA

 

 

567

 

567

Borrowings: DFI

 

 

 

Non-current Liabilities

 

  

 

 

Other liabilities: Debt for acquisition of NYSSA

 

 

1,026

 

1,026

Total liabilities

 

 

1,593

 

1,593

As of December 31, 2022

 

Level 1

 

Level 2

 

Total

Assets

 

  

 

  

 

  

Current Assets

 

  

 

  

 

  

Mutual Funds (1) (2)

 

17,966

 

 

17,966

Government bonds (1) (2)

 

40,790

 

 

40,790

Other receivables: DFI (3)

365

365

Other receivables: Indemnification assets (4)

109

109

Non-current Assets

 

 

 

Other receivables: DFI (3)

627

627

Total assets

58,756

1,101

59,857

Liabilities

 

  

 

  

 

Current Liabilities

 

  

 

  

 

Other liabilities: Debt for acquisition of NYSSA

 

 

613

 

613

Borrowings: DFI

58

58

Non-current Liabilities

Other liabilities: Debt for acquisition of NYSSA

1,614

1,614

Total liabilities

 

 

2,285

 

2,285

(1)

The Mutual funds are included in Cash and cash equivalents, Investments and Guarantee of financial operations included in Other receivables. The Government bonds are included in Cash and cash equivalents and Investments.

(2)

The fair value is based on information obtained from active markets and corresponds to quoted market prices as of year-end. A market in which transactions for the asset or liability take place with sufficient frequency and volume to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis.

(3)

The fair value of financial instruments that are not negotiated in active markets is determined using valuation techniques. These valuation techniques maximize the use of market observable information, when available, and rely as little as possible on specific estimates of the Company. The techniques used for the measurement of financial instruments, are detailed below: a) DFI for forward purchases of US dollars and RMB, corresponds to the variation between the market prices at the end of the fiscal year and the time of agreement and; b) DFI interest rate swap corresponds to the present value of estimated future cash flows based on observable yield curves obtained in the market.

(4)

The fair value was determined by the variation between the quoted values of certain public securities in foreign currency and Argentine pesos.

During the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, there were no transfers between Levels of the fair value hierarchy.

F-81

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Additionally, in accordance with IFRS 7, the methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair values of each class of financial instrument falling under the scope of IFRS 13 as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 are as follows:

Trade receivables and Other receivables: Carrying amounts are considered to approximate fair value due to the short term nature of these receivables. Noncurrent trade receivables have been recognized at their amortization cost, using the effective interest method and are not significant.

Trade payables and Other liabilities: The carrying amount of trade payables and other liabilities to approximates its fair value due to the short term nature of these debts. Noncurrent trade payables and other liabilities have been discounted.

Borrowings

As of December 31, 2023, fair value of borrowings is as follows:

    

Carrying Value

    

Fair Value

Notes

 

1,305,742

 

1,210,111

Other borrowings

 

822,327

 

828,547

 

2,128,069

 

2,038,658

As of December 31, 2022, fair value of borrowings is as follows:

    

Carrying Value

    

Fair Value

Notes

 

835,024

 

846,820

Other borrowings

 

626,067

 

612,754

 

1,461,091

 

1,459,574

The fair value of the loans was assessed as follows:

a)

The fair value of Notes traded in active markets was measured based on quoted market prices at the end of the reporting period. As a result, its valuation classifies as Level 1.

b)

The fair value of Notes that are not traded in an active market was measured based on quotes provided by first-tier financial entities, so their valuation qualifies as Level 2.

c)

Fort the rest of the borrowings, the fair values were calculated based on cash flows discounted using a current lending rate, so as they are classified as level 3.

Other receivables, net and Other liabilities

The carrying amount of other receivables, net and Other liabilities reported in the consolidated statement of financial position approximates its fair value.

F-82

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

c)Hedge accounting

Derivatives are used by Telecom and its subsidiaries to manage their exposure to exchange rate and interest rate risks.

The position of DFIs in the consolidated statements of financial position and amounts recognized in Consolidated Income Statements and Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, are detailed below:

As of December 31,

2023

2022

Other receivables current - DFI: SOFR

    

1,549

    

365

Other receivables non current - DFI: SOFR

 

437

 

627

Total assets

 

1,986

 

992

Borrowings current - DFI: Exchange rate

 

 

58

Total liabilities

 

 

58

Years ended December 31,

2023

2022

2021

Profit (loss)

Foreign currency exchange effect on borrowings

    

7,932

    

(4,842)

    

(11,108)

Interests on borrowings

 

(1,243)

 

(458)

 

(2,292)

Financial results

 

6,689

 

(5,300)

 

(13,400)

DFI effects classified as hedges

 

1,313

 

1,893

 

2,074

Other comprehensive income (loss)

 

1,313

 

1,893

 

2,074

Interest rate swaps – cash flow hedges

As of December 31, 2023, the three DFI agreements signed (during September, 2022) by the Company remain in force, to hedge the fluctuation of SOFR from the IFC loan signed on June 28, 2022, for its total amount, for the period beginning February 15,2023 to August 15, 2025. The amounts hedged in each agreement are: two for a total amount of US$60 million each, and one for a total amount of US$64.5 million. The interest rates are 3.605%, 3.912% and 3.895%, respectively.

In September 2022, the several DFI agreements were finalized to hedge the fluctuation of LIBOR from the IFC loan amounting to US$400 million and from the IIC loan amounting to US$100 million. The mentioned agreements hedged a total amount of US$440 million. Such DFI allows fixing the variable rate in a range between 2.085% and 2.4525% nominal annual rate.

     Exchange rate Hedges

During year ended December 31, 2023, Telecom Argentina entered into several DFI agreements to hedge the fluctuation of the exchange rate from its loan portfolio amounting to US$752 million fixing the average exchange rate in 279.8 Argentine pesos/US$, expiring between February 2023 and November 2023. Additionally, entered into one DFI agreement to RMB20 million fixing the average exchange rate in 37 Argentine pesos/RMB, $, expiring in May 2023 and July 2023.

During year ended December 31, 2022, Telecom Argentina entered into several DFI agreements to hedge the fluctuation of the exchange rate from its loan portfolio amounting to US$262 million fixing the average exchange rate in 166.1 Argentine pesos/US$, expiring between February 2022 and June 2023. Additionally, on December 2022, entered into one DFI agreement to RMB15 million fixing the average exchange rate in 27.8 Argentine pesos/RMB, expiring in January 2023.

During year ended December 31, 2021, Telecom Argentina entered into several DFI agreements to hedge the fluctuation of the exchange rate from its loan portfolio amounting to US$473 million fixing the average exchange rate in 102.49 Argentine pesos/US$, expiring between March 2021 and September 2022.

F-83

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

d)Offsetting of financial assets and financial liabilities

Telecom and its subsidiaries offset the financial assets and liabilities to the extent that such offsetting is provided by offsetting agreements and provided that Telecom has the intention to make such offsetting. The main financial assets and liabilities offset correspond to transactions with other national and foreign operators including interconnection, carriers and Roaming (being offsetting a standard practice in the telecommunications industry at the international level that Telecom and its subsidiaries applies regularly). Offsetting is also applied to transactions with agents.

The following table presents financial assets and liabilities that are offset as of December 31, 2023 and 2022:

As of December 31, 2023

Trade

Other

Other

    

receivables

    

receivables

    

Trade payables

    

liabilities

Current and noncurrent assets (liabilities) - Gross value

 

140,402

 

24,483

 

(365,050)

 

(16,811)

Offsetting

 

(7,282)

 

(872)

 

7,282

 

872

Current and noncurrent assets (liabilities) – Carrying Value

 

133,120

 

23,611

 

(357,768)

 

(15,939)

As of December 31, 2022

Trade

Other

Other

    

receivables

    

receivables

    

Trade payables

    

liabilities

Current and noncurrent assets (liabilities) - Gross value

 

125,096

 

15,626

 

(286,535)

 

(6,100)

Offsetting

 

(7,589)

 

(1,420)

 

7,589

 

1,420

Current and noncurrent assets (liabilities) – Carrying Value

 

117,507

 

14,206

 

(278,946)

 

(4,680)

NOTE  23 – REVENUES

Years ended December 31,

    

2023

    

2022

      

2021

Mobile Services

829,552

912,773

977,421

Internet Services

449,904

503,671

550,600

Cable Television Services

363,367

407,645

500,750

Fixed and Data Services

244,009

277,224

357,471

Other services revenues

19,100

18,006

14,057

Subtotal Services revenues

1,905,932

2,119,319

2,400,299

Equipment revenues

153,169

151,409

180,744

Total Revenues

2,059,101

2,270,728

2,581,043

F-84

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

NOTE 24 – OPERATING EXPENSES

Operating expenses disclosed by nature of expense amounted to $2,184,166 million, $3,189,197 million and $2,597,949 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. The main components of the operating expenses are the following:

Years ended December 31, 

    

2023

    

2022

    

2021

Employee benefit expenses and severance payments

Profit (loss)

Salaries, social security expenses and benefits

(476,011)

(489,729)

(506,081)

Severance indemnities

(28,089)

(67,800)

(39,539)

Other employee expenses

(10,362)

(11,301)

(11,379)

(514,462)

(568,830)

(556,999)

Fees for services, maintenance, materials and supplies

Maintenance and materials

(134,176)

(143,861)

(172,953)

Fees for services

(122,864)

(129,530)

(123,504)

Directors and Supervisory Committee’s fees

(1,677)

(2,068)

(3,391)

(258,717)

(275,459)

(299,848)

Taxes and fees with the Regulatory Authority

Turnover tax

(78,175)

(83,962)

(95,923)

Regulatory Entity Fees

(39,041)

(43,541)

(47,698)

Municipal taxes

(20,925)

(23,866)

(27,441)

Other taxes and fees

(20,048)

(22,991)

(27,557)

(158,189)

(174,360)

(198,619)

Cost of equipment

Inventory balance at the beginning of the year

(21,605)

(20,858)

(36,404)

Plus:

Purchases

(133,824)

(117,503)

(119,827)

Others

11,455

9,196

8,222

Less:

Inventory balance at the end of the year

32,896

21,605

20,858

(111,078)

(107,560)

(127,151)

Other operating expenses

Profit (loss)

Legal Claims and contingent liabilities

(21,554)

(37,033)

(47,898)

Rentals and internet capacity

(12,037)

(12,955)

(16,688)

Energy, water and other services

(38,881)

(41,128)

(42,407)

Postage, freight and travel expenses

(15,104)

(15,981)

(15,692)

Other

(7,464)

(6,402)

(5,805)

(95,040)

(113,499)

(128,490)

Depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets

Depreciation of PP&E

(544,533)

(619,041)

(657,448)

Amortization of intangible assets

(87,908)

(89,215)

(94,375)

Amortization of Rights of use assets

(71,706)

(67,728)

(62,661)

Impairment of Fixed Assets (*)

(314)

(766,483)

(7,788)

(704,461)

(1,542,467)

(822,272)

(*)In 2022 includes $759,523 million corresponding to the impairment of goodwill of the CGU Telecom.

F-85

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Operating expenses, disclosed per function are as follows:

    

Operating

    

Administration

    

Commerciali-

Other

    

Total

    

Total

    

Total

Concept

costs

costs

zation costs

expenses

12.31.2023

12.31.2022

12.31.2021

Employee benefit expenses and severance payments

 

(278,403)

 

(112,373)

 

(123,686)

 

(514,462)

 

(568,830)

 

(556,999)

Interconnection costs and other telecommunication charges

 

(60,793)

 

 

 

(60,793)

 

(69,927)

 

(92,578)

Fees for services, maintenance, materials and supplies

 

(111,771)

 

(42,234)

 

(104,712)

 

(258,717)

 

(275,459)

 

(299,848)

Taxes and fees with the Regulatory Authority

 

(155,996)

 

(571)

 

(1,622)

 

(158,189)

 

(174,360)

 

(198,619)

Commissions and advertising

 

 

 

(120,602)

 

(120,602)

 

(137,536)

 

(147,962)

Cost of equipment

 

(111,078)

 

 

 

(111,078)

 

(107,560)

 

(127,151)

Programming and content costs

 

(116,172)

 

 

 

(116,172)

 

(142,441)

 

(175,606)

Bad debt expenses

 

 

 

(44,652)

 

(44,652)

 

(57,118)

 

(48,424)

Other operating expenses

 

(57,055)

 

(10,472)

 

(27,513)

 

(95,040)

 

(113,499)

 

(128,490)

Depreciation, amortization and impairment of Fixed Assets

 

(550,034)

 

(100,798)

 

(53,315)

(314)

 

(704,461)

 

(1,542,467)

 

(822,272)

Total as of 12.31.2023

 

(1,441,302)

(266,448)

(476,102)

(314)

(2,184,166)

Total as of 12.31.2022

 

(1,588,132)

 

(299,123)

 

(535,459)

(766,483)

 

 

(3,189,197)

 

Total as of 12.31.2021

 

(1,780,112)

 

(251,138)

 

(558,911)

(7,788)

 

 

 

(2,597,949)

Other leases

Future minimum lease payments of non-cancellable other lease agreements of Telecom and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 in currency on the transaction date are as follows:

    

Less than 

    

    

More than 5

    

1 year

15 years

years

Total

2023

1,765

3,858

1,483

7,106

2022

2,033

414

2,447

2021

2,644

863

3,507

Further information is provided in Note 3.k).

F-86

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

NOTE 25 – FINANCIAL RESULTS, NET

Years ended December 31,

    

2023

    

2022

    

2021

Profit (loss)

Interests on borrowings (*)

(58,478)

(46,559)

(93,276)

Remeasurement in borrowings (**)

49,796

5,400

(3,422)

Foreign currency exchange gains (losses) on borrowings (***)

(624,826)

133,909

283,848

Borrowings renegotiation results

(799)

(125)

(13,054)

Total financial cost

(634,307)

92,625

174,096

Fair value gains/(losses) on financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

64,323

(39,496)

8,614

Other foreign currency exchange gains (losses)

(59,786)

1,170

42,139

Other interests, net

15,430

6,026

(9,937)

Other taxes and bank expenses

(25,337)

(21,674)

(25,950)

Financial expenses on pension benefits

(1,856)

(1,267)

(1,364)

Financial discounts on assets, debts and others

(7,277)

(9,937)

(14,801)

RECPAM

187,819

165,557

104,110

Total other financial results, net

173,316

100,379

102,811

Total financial results, net

(460,991)

193,004

276,907

(*)

Includes ($1,243) million, ($458) million and ($2,292) million corresponding to net income and losses generated by DFI in the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

(**)

Related to Notes issued in UVA.

(***)

Includes ($7,932) million, ($4,842) million and ($11,106) million corresponding to net income and losses generated by DFI in the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

NOTE 26 – FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT

Financial risk factors

Telecom and its subsidiaries are exposed to the following financial risks in the ordinary course of its business operations:

Market risk: stemming from change in exchange rates, market prices and interest rates in connection with financial assets that have been originated and financial liabilities that have been assumed;
Credit risk: representing the risk of the non-fulfillment of the obligations undertaken by the counterpart regarding the operations of Telecom;
Liquidity risk: connected with the need to meet short-term financial commitments.

These financial risks are managed by:

The definition of guidelines for directing operations;
The activity of the Board of Directors and Management which monitors the level of exposure to mentioned risks consistently with prefixed general objectives;
The identification of the most suitable financial instruments, including derivatives, to reach prefixed objectives;
The monitoring of the results achieved.

This sensitivity analysis provides only a limited point of view of the sensitivity to market risk of certain financial instruments. The actual impact of changes in financial instruments may differ significantly from this estimate.

The policies to manage and the sensitivity analyses of the above financial risks by Telecom are described below.

F-87

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Market risk

Foreign exchange risk

One of the main Telecom’s market risks is its exposure to changes in foreign currency exchange rates in the markets in which it operates.

Foreign currency risk is the risk that the future fair values or cash flows of a financial instrument may fluctuate due to exchange rate changes.

Telecom has great part of its commercial and financial debt denominated in US$ and other currencies, unlike the Company’s sales revenue, which is mainly generated in Argentine pesos. Additionally, Telecom and its subsidiaries have cash and cash equivalents and investments mostly denominated in foreign currency that are also sensitive to changes in peso/dollar exchange rates and contribute to reduce the exposure to commercial and financial debt in foreign currency.

The financial risk management policies of Telecom are directed towards diversifying the acquisition of goods and services in the functional currency and using selected DFI to mitigate long-term positions in foreign currency.

The continuous appreciation of the U.S. Dollar against to the Argentine peso over the last few years, being only 356.3% in 2023 and in particular 124.2% in the last December, has had and still has a negative impact on the payment of debts denominated in foreign currency and any further devaluation may have a negative effect on our financial situation and the results of our operations. This impact negatively affects the Company because it depends mainly on the domestic market with revenues usually collected in Argentine pesos. See Note 29.

In addition, it should be noted that over the last few years the Argentine peso continued to depreciate against the US dollar and other currencies. As a result of the increased volatility of the Argentine peso, the BCRA implemented several measures to stabilize its value, including, among others, restrictions on the access to the MULC.

Among the measures implemented by the PEN and the BCRA the following stand out:

-

PAIS Tax: establish that all transactions involving the purchase foreign currency made by residents in the country on or after July 24, 2023 for the payment of obligations related to the activities detailed below will be subject to the PAIS tax (Note 3.p).

-

Communication “A” 7106 and its amendments: establish that those private sector companies with scheduled principal maturities on any external borrowings (other than intercompany debt) between October 15, 2020, and December 31, 2023 (as of the date of these financial statements, these communications have not been renewed), may access the MULC provided they summit to the BCRA a refinancing plan be based on the following criteria: (a) the net amount for which the foreign exchange market will be accessed under the original terms shall not exceed 40% of the maturing principal amount, and (b) the remaining principal must be refinanced with a new external indebtedness with an average maturity of at least two years.

This mandatory refinancing shall not apply to: (a) indebtedness with international organizations or their associated agencies or guaranteed by them; (b) indebtedness granted by official credit agencies or guaranteed by them; (c) indebtedness incurred as from January 1, 2020, which proceeds have been repatriated and settled in the exchange market; (d) new indebtedness, incurred as from January 1, 2020, which allowed prior refinancing plans to be achieved; (e) holdouts of refinanced indebtedness that met the requirements set forth in Communication “A” 7106; and (f) payments of principal for an amount no exceeding US$2 million per month. As of the date of issuance of these consolidated financial statements, said resolution was not renewed.

As a result of the requirements established by the BCRA, the Company’s ability to purchase foreign currency may be limited, which would have an adverse effect on its financial situation and its ability to comply with obligations denominated in foreign currency, since any restrictions on the transfer of funds abroad determinated by the government could affect our ability to pay dividends or make payments (principal or interest) in relation to the Company’s borrowings denominated in US dollars, as well as to comply with any other obligation denominated in foreign currency.

In any case, in compliance with Communication “A” 7106, Telecom refinanced its debts in previous years, allowing it at present to have access to MULC.

F-88

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Financial assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

Financial assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, are the following:

    

2023

    

2022

In equivalent millions of Argentine pesos

Assets

 

178,980

 

145,963

Liabilities

 

(2,252,239)

 

(1,379,844)

Liabilities Net

 

(2,073,259)

 

(1,233,881)

Sensitivity analysis

As of December 31,2023, which is a not hedged net liability position in foreign currency of US$2,564 million, Management estimates that an increase in the U.S. dollar exchange rate of approximately 20%, would result in a variation of approximately $414,652 million of the consolidated financial position in foreign currency.

Interest rate risk

Within its structure of borrowings, Telecom and its subsidiaries have bank overdrafts denominated in Argentine pesos accruing interest at rates that are reset at maturity, notes and other financial entities’ loans denominated in Argentine pesos, U.S. dollar, RMB and Guaraníes that bear interest at fixed and variable rates.

The Company has borrowings at variable rate SOF, which amounts to $675,088 million as of December 31, 2023. It should be pointed that, during 2023, the Company has finished the replacement of the LIBOR rate on all of its borrowings. For more information, see Note 13.

The risk management policies of Telecom to reduce the effect of changes in interest rates, consists of using the different DFI that amounts to $149,008 million as of December 31, 2023, that convert variable rates into fixed rates. For more information, see Note 22.

Therefore, the net borrowings not hedged amounts to $526,080 million as of December 31, 2023.

For more information, see Note 13.

Sensitivity analysis

Management believes that any variation of 100 bps in the agreed interest rates would result in $5,260 million gain / loss.

Price Risk

Telecom’s and its subsidiaries’ investments in financial assets at fair value through profit or loss are susceptible to the risk of changes in market prices arising from fluctuations in the future value of these assets. The Company conducts an ongoing monitoring of the evolution of these assets’ prices.

As of December 31, 2023, the total value of investments with changes in fair value recognized in net income amounted to $111,859 million.

Sensitivity Analysis

Management estimates that any 10% variation in the market price would result in $11,186 million gain / loss.

F-89

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Credit risk

Credit risk represents Telecom’s exposure to possible losses arising from the failure of commercial or financial counterparts to fulfill their assumed obligations. Such risk stems principally from economic and financial factors that could affect to our debtors.

Credit risk arises from cash and cash equivalents as well as credit exposures to customers, including outstanding receivables and committed transactions.

Telecom’s maximum theoretical exposure to credit risk is represented by the carrying amount of the financial assets and trade receivables, net recorded in the consolidated statement of financial position.

Cash and cash

Trade

Other

Date due

    

equivalents

    

Investments

    

receivables, net

    

receivables, net

    

Total

Total due

 

 

 

80,966

 

1,517

 

82,483

Total not due

 

159,774

 

123,969

 

52,154

 

22,094

 

357,991

Total as of December 31, 2023

 

159,774

 

123,969

 

133,120

 

23,611

 

440,474

The accruals to the allowance for doubtful accounts are recorded: (i) for an exact amount on credit positions that present an element of individual risk (bankruptcy, customers under legal proceedings with the Company); and (ii) on credit positions that do not present such characteristics, by customer segment considering the aging of the accounts receivable balances, expected credit losses, customer creditworthiness and changes in the customer payment terms. Total overdue balances not covered by the allowance for doubtful accounts amount to $80,966 million as of December 31, 2023.

Regarding the credit risk relating to the asset included in the “Net borrowings or asset”, it should be noted that Telecom evaluates the outstanding credit of the counterparty and the levels of investment, based, among others, on their credit rating and the equity size of the counterparty. In order to minimize credit risk, Telecom also pursues a diversification policy for its investments of liquidity with leading high-credit-quality banking and financial institutions and generally for short-term periods. Consequently, there are no significant positions with any one single counterpart.

Telecom serves a wide range of customers, including residential customers, businesses and governmental agencies. As such, Telecom’s account receivables are not subject to significant concentration of credit risk.

Liquidity risk

Liquidity risk represents the risk that Telecom and its subsidiaries have no funds to accomplish its obligations of any nature (labor, commercial, fiscal and financial, among others).

Telecom has an excellent credit rating and has several financing sources and several offers from first-class institutions to diversify its current funding structure, which includes accessing to capital market and obtaining competitive bank loans in what relates to terms and financial costs, in all cases, both at the domestic and international level, with the objective of covering its investments, operative working capital, and other corporative expenses and refinancing part of its borrowings. For further information on bank loans agreements, bank loans payments and bank loans restructured, see Note 13.

The Company’s management evaluates the national and international macroeconomic context (including regulatory restrictions and foreign exchange restrictions) to take advantage of market opportunities to presser the financial health for the benefit of its investors.

It should be noted that, given the economic context and the foreign exchange restrictions mentioned in Note 29, during the current year, the Company has increased its unpaid debt in foreign currency, due to not having access to the corresponding currencies.

F-90

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

The table below contains a breakdown of financial liabilities into relevant maturity groups based on the remaining period at the date of the consolidated statement of financial position to the contractual maturity date. The amounts disclosed in the table are the contractual undiscounted cash flows.

Trade

Leases

Other

Maturity Date

    

payables

    

Borrowings

    

liabilities

    

liabilities

    

Total

Due

 

119,408

 

 

 

 

119,408

January 2024 thru December 2024

 

237,456

 

586,240

 

31,536

 

10,778

 

866,010

January 2025 thru December 2025

 

487

 

710,559

 

24,958

 

2,501

 

738,505

January 2026 thru December 2026

 

147

 

655,964

 

13,083

 

2,318

 

671,512

January 2027 and thereafter

 

280

 

389,000

 

28,565

 

342

 

418,187

 

357,778

 

2,341,763

 

98,142

 

15,939

 

2,813,622

On the other hand, it should be noted that, Telecom and its subsidiaries have a typical working capital structure corresponding to a company with intensive capital that obtains spontaneous financing from its suppliers (especially PP&E) for longer terms than those it provides to its customers.

Telecom and its subsidiaries’ working capital breakdown and their variations are disclosed below:

    

2023

    

2022

    

Variation

Trade receivables

132,868

117,139

15,729

Other receivables

42,712

52,956

(10,244)

Inventories

31,529

20,079

11,450

Current liabilities (not considering borrowings)

(543,240)

(479,411)

(63,829)

Negative operative working capital

(336,131)

(289,237)

(46,894)

Over revenues

16.3

%  

12.7

%  

Cash and cash equivalents

159,774

124,725

35,049

Other receivables

1,549

7,885

(6,336)

Investments

123,969

26,074

97,895

Current borrowings

(563,478)

(418,411)

(145,067)

Net Current financial (liability) asset

(278,186)

(259,727)

(18,459)

Assets classified as held for sale

2,971

(2,971)

Negative working capital (current assets – current liabilities)

(614,317)

(545,993)

(68,324)

Liquidity rate

0.44

0.39

0.05

According to this, the negative working capital amounted to $614,317 million as of December 31, 2023 (increasing $68,324 million compared to December 31, 2022).

Capital management

The primary objective of Telecom’s capital management is to ensure that it maintains a strong credit rating and healthy capital ratios in order to support its business and maximize shareholder value.

Telecom manages its capital structure and makes adjustments considering the business evolution and changes in the macroeconomic conditions.

To maintain or adjust the capital structure, the company may adjust the dividend payment to shareholders and the level of indebtedness.

The company does not have to comply with regulatory capital adequacy requirements.

F-91

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

The issues related to financial debt ratios see Note 13.

NOTE 27 - BALANCES AND TRANSACTIONS WITH COMPANIES UNDER SECTION 33 - LAW No. 19,550 AND RELATED PARTIES

a)  Controlling Company

As of December 31, 2022 CVH was the controlling company of Telecom Argentina, holding directly and indirectly (thought VLG) 28.16% of the capital stock of the Company. Additionally, both VLG (controlled by CVH) and Fintech, contributed to the Voting Trust, in accordance with the Shareholders´ Agreement (see below “Voting trust pursuant to the Shareholders’ Agreement between Fintech and CVH”), shares representing 10.92% of the capital of the Company so the shares subject to such agreement represent 21.84% of the total capital of the Company (the “Shares in Trust”).

On April 28, 2023, the Ordinary and Extraordinary General Shareholders’ Meeting held, the shareholders of CVH approved the corporate reorganization process through the merger by absorption of VLG and the Pre-Merger Commitment. The Definitive Merger Commitment was executed by public deed dated June 5, 2023.

On September 1, 2023, IGJ proceeded to register in its Public Registry the merger by absorption of VLG and its dissolution without liquidation with effect from January 1, 2023.

Consequently, as of December 31, 2023, as a result of the corporate reorganization process, CVH directly owns 28.16% of the Company’s share capital.

Shareholders’ Agreement: Fintech - CVH

On July 7, 2017 CVH, VLG (merged to date with CVH), Fintech Media LLC (merged to date with Fintech), Fintech Advisory Inc., GC Dominio S.A. (all of them direct or indirect shareholders of Cablevisión S.A.) and Fintech (direct or indirect shareholder of Telecom Argentina) entered into a shareholders’ agreement that governs the exercise of their rights as shareholders of the Company. The Shareholders´ Agreement establishes basically:

the representation in the corporate bodies, provided that subject to the fulfillment of certain conditions and as long as CVH holds a certain percentage of Telecom Shares, CVH shall be entitled to designate the majority of the directors, members of the Executive Committee, Audit Committee, Supervisory Committee, CEO and any other Key Employee (other than the CFO and the Internal Auditor). CVH shall also be entitled to nominate the Chairman of the Board of Directors and Fintech to nominate de Vice chairman of the Board of Directors.
a scheme of supermajorities and required votes for the approval by the Shareholders´ Meetings or Board of Directors´ Meetings, respectively, of certain matters such as: i) the approval of the Business Plan and the Annual Budget of Telecom Argentina; ii) amendments of the bylaws, iii) changes in Independent Auditors, iv) the creation of committees of the Board of Directors, v) hiring of Key Employees as defined in the Shareholders´ Agreement (Key employees will be proposed by CVH, except for the CFO and the internal auditor); vi) merger of Telecom or any other controlled entity, vii) acquisitions of certain assets, viii) sale of certain assets, ix) capital increases; x) incurrence of indebtedness over certain limits, xi) capital investments not contemplated in the Business Plan and the Annual Budget above certain amounts; xii) related party transactions, xiii) contracts that may impose restrictions to the distribution of dividends; xiv) new lines of business or discontinuing existing lines of business; xv) contracting for significant amounts not contemplated in the Business Plan and the Annual Budget, among others.

F-92

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

Voting trust pursuant to the Shareholders’ Agreement between Fintech and CVH

In accordance with the Shareholders´ Agreement, on April 15, 2019, a Voting Trust Agreement (the “Trust Agreement”) was regularized, under which Fintech and VLG (i) each contributed with 235,177,350 shares of Telecom in a voting trust (the “Voting Trust”) which, when added to the shares that CVH holds (directly and indirectly) in Telecom, exceed fifty percent (50)% of the outstanding shares, and (ii) CVH and Fintech each appointed a co-trustee. The shares contributed to the Voting Trust will be voted by the co-trustee of CVH in accordance with the vote of CVH or following the instructions of CVH, except in respect of certain matters subject to veto under the Shareholders´ Agreement, in which case will be voted by the co-trustee of Fintech in accordance with the vote of Fintech or following the instructions of Fintech.

b)  Balances with Companies under section 33 - Law No. 19,550 and Related Parties

Companies under section 33 - Law No. 19,550 – Associates and Joint Venture

CURRENT ASSETS

Kind of related party

As of December 31, 

Trade receivables

    

    

2023

    

2022

Ver TV

Associate

10

2

OPH

Joint venture

27

37

2

Other receivables

La Capital Cable

Associate

210

1,046

Ver TV

Associate

2

6

212

1,052

CURRENT LIABILITIES

  

  

Trade payables

La Capital Cable

Associate

3

TSMA

Associate

1

3

OPH

Joint venture

1,071

1,075

3

Other liabilities

OPH

Joint venture

2,358

2,358

NON - CURRENT LIABILITIES

Other liabilities

OPH

Joint venture

4,133

4,133

Related parties

CURRENT ASSETS

As of December 31, 

Trade receivables

    

2023

    

2022

Other related parties

656

699

656

699

Other receivables

Other related parties

4

12

4

12

CURRENT LIABILITIES

Trade payables

Other Related parties

4,587

6,185

4,587

6,185

F-93

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

c)  Transactions with Companies under section 33 - Law No. 19,550 and related parties

Companies under section 33 - Law No. 19,550– Associates and Joint venture

Transaction

Kind of related party

Years ended December 31, 

    

    

    

2023

    

2022

    

2021

Profit (loss)

Revenues

La Capital Cable

Services revenues and other revenues

Associate

102

 

218

 

280

Ver TV

Services revenues and other revenues

Associate

33

37

OPH

Services revenues and other revenues

Joint venture

84

 

 

219

218

317

Operating costs

La Capital Cable

Fees for services

Associate

(870)

 

(554)

 

(545)

(870)

 

(554)

 

(545)

Related Parties

Transaction

Years ended December 31, 

    

    

2023

    

2022

    

2021

Profit (loss)

Revenues

Other Related parties

Services and advertising revenues

1,974

 

1,548

 

1,921

1,974

 

1,548

 

1,921

Operating costs

Other Related parties

Programming costs

(17,783)

 

(21,727)

 

(25,641)

Other Related parties

Editing and distribution of magazines

(2,727)

 

(3,846)

 

(5,169)

Other Related parties

Advisory services

(2,306)

 

(2,778)

 

(3,207)

Other Related parties

Advertising purchases

(1,464)

 

(2,258)

 

(3,385)

Other Related parties

Other purchases and commissions

(1,119)

 

(956)

 

(1,171)

(25,399)

 

(31,565)

 

(38,573)

The transactions discussed above were made on terms no less favorable to Telecom than would have been obtained from unaffiliated third parties. When Telecom’s transactions represented more than 1% of its total shareholders’ equity, they were approved according to Law No. 26,831, the Bylaws and the Executive Committees’ Faculties and Performance Regulation.

d)  Key Managers

Compensation for Directors for technical-administrative functions and Key Managers includes fixed and variable compensation, retention plans, social security contribution, and, in some cases, accrued severance compensation. Compensation for Directors and Key Managers of Telecom Argentina for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 amounted to $5,898 million, $2,775 million and $1,184 million, respectively (in currency of the transaction date), and were recorded as expenses under the line item “Employee benefits expenses and severance payments”. As of December 31, 2023, an amount of $3,167 million remained unpaid.

Telecom Argentina has recorded a provision of $765 million, $435 million and $418 million for the fees of its Board of Directors’ members for the year ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively (in currency of the transaction date). As of December 31,2023, there are no unpaid balances.

The members and alternate members of the Board of Directors do not hold executive positions in the Company or Company’s subsidiaries.

F-94

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

NOTE 28 – ACQUISITION OF SHAREHOLDINGS

The main acquisitions in 2023 compared to previous years are detailed below:

a) Acquisition of NYSSA

On June 1, 2022, the Company acquired 100% of the issued shares of NYSSA (represented by 10,000 shares, of $1,000 per share and represents one vote each), whose main activity is to provide internet access services in Mendoza, Argentina, through a license granted by ENACOM.

The Purchase consideration amounted to $2,884 million (in current currency as of December 31, 2023) and the Net identifiable assets acquired at fair value were $1,987 million. Therefore, the Company recognized, as of December 31, 2022, a Goodwill of $897 million.

As of December 31, 2023, the Company maintains indemnification assets for a total amount of $45 million, associated with certain identified liabilities, which are expected to be deducted from the next installment payment. Additionally, as of December 31, 2023 the debt amounts to $1,592 million, of which $566 million are current and $1,026 million are non-current.

b)Acquisition of the OPH

On April 24, 2023, the Company entered into a share subscription agreement, whereby it subscribed 1,000 Class B common shares, entitled to one vote per share, of OPH, representing 50% of its capital stock, as well as an agreement of joint corporate governance of OPH and its subsidiaries, with the other shareholder.

OPH, a company incorporated in the state of Delaware, USA, holds a 100% equity interest in Open Pass S.A.U. (“Open Pass”), a company that provides computer services related to software development and maintenance, with which Micro Sistemas holds an agreement for the use and development of the digital wallet platform.

The transaction price was set at US$13.8 million. On the date of subscription of the shares, the Company paid US$4.8 million, equivalent to $2,775 million in current currency as of December 31, 2023 ($2,228 million in cash and $547 million through the delivery of government bonds), and the outstanding balance will be settled in three equal annual installments. As of December 31, 2023, the Company’s debt amounts to $6,492 million ($2,358 million are current and $4,133 million are non-current), and is recognized in “Other liabilities”.

In April, 2023, Micro Sistemas assigned to the Company the call option rights receivable over Open Pass shares granted to Micro Sistemas by certain shareholders of Open Pass, which expired on April 30, 2023.

In addition, in March, 2023, the Company set up a guarantee trust which as of December 31, 2023 is registered in IGJ, whose purpose is to constitute a guarantee of payment of the remaining balance to be paid to OPH, with OPH being the beneficiary of such trust.

As of December 31, 2023 the Company maintains a guarantee deposit under “Other receivables” for $7,189 million ($2,417 million are current and $4,772 million are non-current), related to the balance in bank accounts reported by the trust.

F-95

Table of Contents

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

NOTE 29 – ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT

The Company operates in a complex economic environment, with a strong volatility in the main variables, both at national and international level.

During 2023, the Argentine economy experienced high levels of inflation, as well as the devaluation of its currency. Additionally, a severe drought affected the agro-industrial sector, leading to a decline in exports, which in turn resulted in a decrease in the reserves of the BCRA. This led the government to impose further restrictions on the access to the MULC and to implement the PAIS tax, with different rates for both imports of goods and services (see specific issues regarding this tax in Note 3.p).

On the other hand, 2023 was an election year in Argentina, which concluded with a change in the administration, adding further instability due to the uncertainty generated by the election results.

Throughout 2023, the U.S Dollar appreciated 356.3% against the Argentine peso, with the exchange rate going from 177.16 pesos per U.S Dollar by the end of 2022 to 808.45 pesos per dollar by the end of 2023, with the months of August (27.2)% and December (124.3)% experiencing the highest appreciation.

The year 2023 ended with an inflation rate of 211.4%, showing a very strong acceleration in the second half of the year, with December being the month with the highest inflation impact (25.5)%.

On the international front, in 2023, the global economy tended to decelerate. Core inflation persisted in many advanced economies, leading central banks to maintain and/or raise their benchmark interest rates. On the other hand, core inflation has been easing in many emerging economies, prompting them to reduce their benchmark rates, especially in Latin America. This had an impact on capital flows towards emerging economies, which lost momentum, consequently affecting their currencies.

The Company’s Management will continue to monitor the evolution of the aforementioned situations and the evolution of the variables that affect its business in order to determine the potential impacts on its economic and financial position. Therefore, the Company’s consolidated financial statements must be read in the light of these circumstances.

Carlos Moltini

Chairman of the Board of Directors

F-96

ITEM 19.    EXHIBITS

Exhibits:

1.1

    

Estatutos Sociales (Bylaws) of Telecom Argentina, as amended and restated (English translation) (incorporated by reference to Telecom’s report on Form 6-K filed on October 19, 2021).

 

 

 

 2.1

 

Amended and Restated Deposit Agreement among Telecom Argentina S.A., JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as depositary, and all holders from time to time of ADRs issued thereunder, including the form of American Depositary Receipt, dated May 7, 2021 (incorporated by reference to Telecom’s registration statement on Form F-6 (No. 333-255672)).

2.2

Description of rights of each class of securities registered under Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (included as Exhibit 2.6 of the Form 20-F filed by Telecom Argentina on March 18, 2020 and incorporated by reference herein).

3.1

 

Voting Trust Agreement between Cablevisión Holding S.A., VLG S.A.U., Fintech Telecom LLC, Fintech Advisory, Inc., Mr. Héctor Horacio Magnetto, Mr. José Antonio Aranda, Mr. Lucio Rafael Pagliaro and Mr. David Manuel Martínez Guzmán, dated April 15, 2019 (previously filed as Exhibit 99.9 to Telecom’s Schedule 13D filed on April 16, 2019 and incorporated by reference herein).

 

 

 

4.1

 

Telecom Shareholders’ Agreement among VLG Argentina LLC, CVH, Fintech Telecom, LLC, Fintech Media, LLC and Fintech Advisory Inc., dated July 7, 2017 (previously filed as Exhibit 32 to Telecom’s Schedule 13D filed on July 10, 2017 and incorporated by reference herein).

 

 

 

4.2

 

Amended IDB Invest Loan Agreement between Telecom Argentina and Inter-American Investment Corporation, dated December 15, 2021 (included as Exhibit 4.9 of the Form 20-F filed by Telecom Argentina on March 22, 2022 and incorporated by reference herein).

 

 

 

4.3

 

Amended Common Terms Agreement between Telecom Argentina and Inter-American Investment Corporation, dated December 15, 2021 (included as Exhibit 4.10 of the Form 20-F filed by Telecom Argentina on March 22, 2022 and incorporated by reference herein).

 

 

 

4.4

 

Amended IFC Loan Agreement between Telecom Argentina and International Finance Corporation, dated December 15, 2021 (included as Exhibit 4.11 of the Form 20-F filed by Telecom Argentina on March 22, 2022 and incorporated by reference herein).

 

 

 

4.5

 

IFC Loan Agreement between Telecom Argentina and International Finance Corporation, dated June 28, 2022 (included as Exhibit 4.7 of the Form 20-F filed by Telecom Argentina on March 20, 2023 and incorporated by reference herein).

 

 

 

4.6

 

Amended and Restated IDB Invest Loan Agreement between Telecom Argentina and Inter-American Investment Corporation, dated October 20, 2023.

 8.1

 

List of Subsidiaries.

 

 

 

12.1

 

Certification of Roberto D. Nóbile of Telecom Argentina S.A. pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

 

12.2

 

Certification of Gabriel Blasi of Telecom Argentina S.A. pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

 

13.1

 

Certification of Roberto D. Nóbile and Gabriel Blasi pursuant to U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

PART III

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

159

97

Policy Relating to Recovery of Erroneously Awarded Compensation of Telecom Argentina S.A., dated November 15, 2023.

 

 

 

101.INS

 

XBRL Instance Document

101.SCH

 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema

101.CAL

 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase

101.DEF

 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase

101.LAB

 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase

101.PRE

 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase

PART III

TELECOM ARGENTINA S.A.

160

SIGNATURE

The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this Annual Report on its behalf.

 

Telecom Argentina S.A.

 

By:

/s/ GABRIEL BLASI

 

 

Name:

Gabriel Blasi

 

 

Title:

Chief Financial Officer

Date: March 21, 2024