Accounting and auditing

The Group’s accounts are drawn up according to the principles of the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS, as applicable in the EU) with consideration of section 315e HGB. However, the Annual Financial Statements of the parent company – relevant for all dividend and tax matters – are drawn up according to the rules of the German Commercial Code (HGB). The Annual Financial Statements and the Consolidated Financial Statements are audited by independent auditors. The respective auditing company is selected by the Annual Shareholders' Meeting. Ernst & Young GmbH Wirtschaftsprüfungsgesellschaft, Eschborn/Frankfurt am Main, was elected to audit the Annual Financial Statements for the fiscal year 2019. The Supervisory Board issues the auditing mandate, determines auditing focal points, approves the auditing fee, and examines the independence of the auditors.

Ernst & Young GmbH Wirtschaftsprüfungsgesellschaft has audited the Annual Financial Statements of United Internet AG and the Group since the fiscal year 2002. Mr. Jens Kemmerich has been the chief auditor since fiscal year 2019.