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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington D.C. 20549
Form 10-K
(Mark One)
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020
or
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from              to
Commission file number 001-32312
Novelis Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Canada98-0442987
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
3560 Lenox Road, Suite 2000
Atlanta, GA
30326
(Address of principal executive offices)(Zip Code)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (404) 760-4000
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: None
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    Yes   ¨    No  
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.    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 
The registrant is a voluntary filer and is not subject to the filing requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. However, the registrant 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.
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files).    Yes      No  ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," "smaller reporting company," and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer¨Accelerated filer¨
Non-accelerated filer
Smaller reporting company¨
Emerging growth company¨
If an emerging growth company, 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.  ¨ 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).    Yes      No  
The registrant is a privately held corporation. As of September 30, 2019, the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter, there was no established public trading market for the common stock of the registrant and therefore, an aggregate market value of the registrant’s common stock is not determinable.
As of May 6, 2020, the registrant had 1,000 common shares outstanding. All of the registrant’s outstanding shares were held indirectly by Hindalco Industries Ltd., the registrant’s parent company. 
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE: None



TABLE OF CONTENTS



PART I
PART II
PART III
PART IV

2


SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS AND MARKET DATA
This document contains forward-looking statements that are based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections about the industry in which we operate, and beliefs and assumptions made by our management. Such statements include, in particular, statements about our plans, strategies, and prospects under the headings "Item 1. Business," "Item 1A. Risk Factors," and "Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations." Words such as "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "plan," "believe," "seek," "estimate" and variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Examples of forward-looking statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K include, but are not limited to, our belief that, as a result of the Aleris acquisition, we can more efficiently serve the automotive market and unlock synergies, and the possible future impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and the actions taken against it. These statements are based on beliefs and assumptions of Novelis’ management, which in turn are based on currently available information. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve assumptions and risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed, implied, or forecasted in such forward-looking statements. We do not intend, and we disclaim any obligation, to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Factors that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ from the results expressed or implied by forward-looking statements include, among other things: changes in the prices and availability of aluminum (or premiums associated with such prices) or other materials and raw materials we use; the capacity and effectiveness of our hedging activities; relationships with, and financial and operating conditions of, our customers, suppliers and other stakeholders; fluctuations in the supply of, and prices for, energy in the areas in which we maintain production facilities; our ability to access financing including in connection with potential acquisitions and investments; risks relating to, and our ability to consummate, pending and future acquisitions, investments or divestitures; changes in the relative values of various currencies and the effectiveness of our currency hedging activities; factors affecting our operations, such as litigation, environmental remediation and clean-up costs, breakdown of equipment and other events; economic, regulatory and political factors within the countries in which we operate or sell our products, including changes in duties or tariffs; competition from other aluminum rolled products producers as well as from substitute materials such as steel, glass, plastic and composite materials; changes in general economic conditions including deterioration in the global economy; the risks of pandemics or other public health emergencies, including the continued spread and impact of, and the governmental and third party response to, the recent COVID-19 outbreak; changes in government regulations, particularly those affecting taxes, derivative instruments, environmental, health or safety compliance; changes in interest rates that have the effect of increasing the amounts we pay under our credit facilities and other financing agreements; and our ability to generate cash. The above list of factors is not exhaustive.
This document also contains information concerning our markets and products generally, which is forward-looking in nature and is based on a variety of assumptions regarding the ways in which these markets and product categories will develop. These assumptions have been derived from information currently available to us and to the third party industry analysts quoted herein. This information includes but is not limited to product shipments and share of production. Actual market results may differ from those predicted. We do not know what impact any of these differences may have on our business, our results of operations, financial condition, and cash flow. For a discussion of some of the specific factors that may cause Novelis' actual results to differ materially from those projected in any forward-looking statements, see the following sections of this report: "Part I. Item 1A. Risk Factors," "Part II. Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," and "Part II. Item 7. Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates."
3


SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS AND MARKET DATA
In this Annual Report on Form 10-K (Form 10-K), unless otherwise specified, the terms "we," "our," "us," "Company," and "Novelis" refer to Novelis Inc., a company incorporated in Canada under the Canadian Business Corporations Act, and its subsidiaries. References herein to "Hindalco" refer to Hindalco Industries Limited, which acquired Novelis in May 2007. Unless otherwise specified, the period referenced is the current fiscal year. Reference to fiscal 2020, fiscal 2019, or fiscal 2018 refers to the fiscal years ended March 31, 2020, 2019, or 2018, respectively.
Exchange Rate Data
We report our financial statements in United States (U.S.) dollars. The following table sets forth exchange rate information expressed in terms of Canadian dollars per U.S. dollar based on exchange data published daily from Citibank as of 16:00 Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) (11:00 A.M. Eastern Standard Time). The rates set forth below may differ from the actual rates used in our accounting processes and in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements.
PeriodAt Period End
Average Rate(1)
HighLow
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2016
1.2978  1.3115  1.4015  1.2065  
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2017
1.3289  1.3137  1.3439  1.2542  
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2018
1.2889  1.2826  1.3667  1.2305  
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2019
1.3360  1.3141  1.3657  1.2824  
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2020
1.4245  1.3333  1.4245  1.2969  
________________________
(1)This represents the average of the 16:00 GMT buying rates on the last day of each month during the period.
All dollar figures herein are in U.S. dollars unless otherwise indicated.
Commonly Referenced Data
As used in this Form 10-K, consolidated "aluminum rolled product shipments," "flat rolled product shipments," or "shipments" refers to aluminum rolled product shipments to third parties. "Aluminum rolled product shipments," "flat rolled product shipments," or "shipments" associated with the regions refers to aluminum rolled product shipments to third parties and intersegment shipments to other Novelis regions. Shipment amounts also include tolling shipments. References to "total shipments" include aluminum rolled product shipments as well as certain other non-rolled product shipments, primarily scrap, used beverage cans (UBCs), ingots, billets, and primary remelt. The term "aluminum rolled products" is synonymous with the terms "flat rolled products" and "FRP" which are commonly used by manufacturers and third party analysts in our industry. All tonnages are stated in metric tonnes. One metric tonne is equivalent to 2,204.6 pounds. One kilotonne (kt) is 1,000 metric tonnes.
A significant amount of our business is conducted under a conversion model, which allows us to pass through increases or decreases in the price of aluminum to our customers. Nearly all of our flat rolled products have a price structure with three components: (i) a base aluminum price quoted off the London Metal Exchange (LME); (ii) a local market premium (LMP); and (iii) a "conversion premium" to produce the rolled product which reflects, among other factors, the competitive market conditions for that product. The use of the term "conversion premium" in this Form 10-K, refers to the conversion costs plus a margin we charge our customers to produce the rolled product which reflects, among other factors, the competitive market conditions for that product, exclusive of the pass through aluminum price.
4


PART I
Item 1. Business.
Overview
Novelis is the leading producer of flat-rolled aluminum products and the world's largest recycler of aluminum. Driven by our purpose to shape a sustainable world together, we work alongside our customers to provide innovative solutions to the beverage can, automotive, and specialty markets (which includes foil packaging, certain transportation products, architectural, industrial, and consumer durables). Operating an integrated network of technically advanced rolling and recycling facilities across North America, South America, Europe, and Asia, Novelis leverages its global manufacturing and recycling footprint to consistently deliver high-quality products around the world. For the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020, we had shipment volumes of 3,429 kt and "Net sales" of $11,217 million.
Our History
Organization and Description of Business
Novelis was formed in Canada on September 21, 2004. On May 15, 2007, Novelis was acquired by Hindalco. All of the common shares of Novelis are owned directly by AV Metals Inc. and indirectly by Hindalco. We produce flat rolled aluminum products and provide innovative solutions to the beverage can, automotive and specialty markets. As of March 31, 2020, we had manufacturing operations in nine countries on four continents: North America, South America, Europe and Asia, through 22 operating facilities, including recycling operations in 12 of these plants.
Our Industry
The aluminum rolled products market represents the global supply of, and demand for, aluminum sheet, plate and foil produced either from sheet ingot or continuously cast roll-stock in rolling mills operated by both independent aluminum rolled products producers and integrated aluminum companies.
Aluminum rolled products are semi-finished aluminum products that constitute the raw material for the manufacture of finished goods ranging from automotive structures and body panels to food and beverage cans. There are two major types of manufacturing processes for aluminum rolled products differing mainly in the process used to achieve the initial stage of processing:
hot mills — which require sheet ingot, a rectangular slab of aluminum, as starter material; and
continuous casting mills — which can convert molten metal directly into semi-finished sheet.
Both processes require subsequent rolling, which we refer to as cold rolling, and finishing steps such as annealing, coating, leveling, or slitting to achieve the desired thickness, width and metal properties. Most customers receive shipments in the form of aluminum coil, a large roll of metal, which can be utilized in their fabrication processes.
Industry Sources of Metal
There are two sources of input material: (1) recycled aluminum, produced by remelting post-industrial and post-consumer scraps; and (2) primary aluminum, produced from alumina (extracted from bauxite), processed in a smelter.
Primary aluminum and sheet ingot can generally be purchased at prices set on the LME, plus a local market premium that varies by geographic region of delivery, alloying material, form (ingot or molten metal) and purity.
Recycled aluminum is generally purchased at a discount compared to the price of primary aluminum depending on type and quality of the scrap, geographic region, and other market factors.
Industry End-use Markets
Aluminum rolled products companies produce and sell a wide range of products, which can be grouped into five end-use markets: (1) packaging; (2) transportation; (3) architectural; (4) industrial; and (5) consumer durables and other. Within each end-use market, aluminum rolled products are manufactured with a variety of alloy mixtures; a range of tempers (hardness), gauges (thickness) and widths; and various coatings and finishes. Large customers typically have customized needs that require close working relationships, including technical development and support with their supplying mills.
Aluminum has a wide variety of uses in end-use markets because of its lightweight, recyclability, and formability properties. The recyclability of aluminum enables it to be used, collected, melted, and returned to the original product form an unlimited number of times, unlike paper and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic, which deteriorate with every iteration of recycling.
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Packaging. Aluminum is used in beverage cans and bottles, food cans, beverage screw caps, and foil, among others. Packaging is the largest aluminum rolled products application, according to market data from Commodity Research Unit International Limited (CRU), an independent business analysis and consultancy group. Beverage cans are one of the largest aluminum rolled products applications. Aluminum remains the most sustainable packaging material for beverage brands. In addition to their recyclability, aluminum beverage cans offer advantages in fabricating efficiency and product shelf life. Fabricators are able to produce and fill beverage cans at very high speeds, and non-porous aluminum cans provide longer shelf life than PET plastic containers. Additionally, the use of aluminum to package beverages such as craft beer is increasing, as aluminum blocks sunlight and therefore maintains the quality and taste of the product longer. Aluminum cans are light, stackable and use space efficiently, making them convenient and cost-efficient to ship.
Beverage can sheet is sold in coil form for the production of can bodies, ends, and tabs. The material can be ordered as rolled, degreased, pre-lubricated, pre-treated, and/or lacquered. Typically, can makers define their own specifications for material to be delivered in terms of alloy, gauge, width, and surface finish.
Foil wrap or packaging foil is another packaging application and it includes household and institutional aluminum foil. Container foil is used to produce semi-rigid containers such as pie plates and take-out food trays.
Transportation. Aluminum rolled products are used in vehicle structures (also known as "body-in-white") as well as automotive body panel applications, including hoods, doors, deck lids, fenders and lift gates. Flat rolled aluminum sheet is also used in the production of battery enclosures for the growing electric vehicle market. These uses typically result from cooperative efforts between aluminum rolled products manufacturers and their customers that yield solutions for specific requirements in alloy selection, fabrication procedure, surface quality and joining. There has been recent growth in certain geographic markets in passenger and commercial vehicle applications due to the lighter weight, better fuel economy and improved emissions performance associated with these applications. We expect increased growth in this end-use market driven by government regulations requiring improved emissions and better fuel economy; while also maintaining or improving vehicle performance and safety.
Heat exchangers, such as radiators, air conditioners, and auto fin material, are an important application for aluminum rolled products in the transportation end-use market. Original equipment manufacturers also use aluminum sheet, with specially treated surfaces and other specific properties, for interior and exterior applications. Newly developed alloys are being used in transportation tanks and rigid containers allowing for safer and more economical transportation of hazardous and corrosive materials.
Aluminum is also used in aerospace applications, as well as in the construction of ships’ hulls, superstructures and passenger rail cars because of its strength, light weight, formability, and corrosion resistance.
Architectural. Construction is the largest application within this end-use market. Aluminum rolled products developed for the construction industry are often decorative and non-flammable, offer insulating properties, are durable and corrosion resistant, and have a high strength-to-weight ratio. Aluminum siding, gutters, and downspouts comprise a significant amount of construction volume. Other applications include doors, windows, awnings, canopies, facades, roofs and ceilings.
Industrial. Industrial applications include heat exchangers, process and electrical machinery, lighting fixtures, furniture and insulation.
Consumer Durables and Other. Aluminum’s lightweight characteristics, high formability, ability to conduct electricity and dissipate heat and its corrosion resistance makes it useful in a wide variety of electronic applications. Uses of aluminum rolled products in electronics include flat screen televisions, personal computers, laptops, mobile devices, and digital music players. Other uses of aluminum rolled products in consumer durables include microwaves, coffee makers, air conditioners and cooking utensils.
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Market Structure and Competition 
The aluminum rolled products market is highly competitive and is characterized by economies of scale; and significant capital investments are required to achieve and maintain technological capabilities and demanding customer qualification standards. Our primary aluminum competitors are as follows:
North AmericaAsia
Alcoa, Inc. (Alcoa)Arconic
Arconic Inc. (Arconic)Binzhou Weiqiao Aluminium Science & Technology Co., Ltd.
Constellium N.V. (Constellium)China Zhongwang Holdings Limited
Golden AluminumChinalco Group
Gränges ABHenan Mingtai Aluminum Industrial Co., Ltd.
Ma'aden - Saudi Arabian Mining CompanyHenan Zhongfu Industrial Co., Ltd.
Shandong Nanshan Aluminum Co., Ltd.Kobe Steel Ltd. (Kobe)
UACJ Corporation/ Tri-Arrows Aluminum Inc. (Tri-Arrows)
Shandong Nanshan Aluminum Co., Ltd.
Southwest Aluminum (Group) Co., Ltd.
EuropeUACJ Corporation
AMAG Austria Metall AG
ArconicSouth America
ConstelliumArconic
Elval Hellenic Aluminium Industry S.A.Companhia Brasileira de Alumínio
Henan Zhongfu Industrial Co., Ltd.Hulamin Limited
Norsk Hydro A.S.A.Norsk Hydro A.S.A.
Shandong Nanshan Aluminum Co., Ltd.Shandong Nanshan Aluminum Co., Ltd.
The factors influencing competition vary by region and end-use market, but generally we compete on the basis of our value proposition; which includes price, product quality, the ability to meet customers’ specifications, range of products offered, lead times, technical support and customer service. In some end-use markets, competition is also affected by fabricators’ requirements that suppliers complete a qualification process to supply their plants. This process can be rigorous and may take many months to complete. As a result, obtaining business from these customers can be a lengthy and expensive process. However, the ability to obtain and maintain these qualifications can represent a competitive advantage.
In addition to competition from others within the aluminum rolled products industry, we also face competition from non-aluminum material producers. In the packaging end-use market (primarily beverage and food cans), aluminum rolled products compete mainly with glass, PET plastic, and in some regions, steel. In the transportation end-use market, aluminum rolled products compete mainly with steel and composites. Aluminum competes with wood, plastic, cement, steel and other materials in building products applications. In the consumer durables end-use market, aluminum rolled products compete mainly with plastic, steel, and magnesium. Additionally, aluminum competes with steel, copper, plastic, glass and other materials in industrial applications. Factors affecting competition with substitute materials include price, ease to manufacture, consumer preference and performance characteristics.
Key Factors Affecting Supply and Demand
The following factors have historically affected the supply of aluminum rolled products:
Production Capacity and Alternative Technology. The addition of rolling capacity requires large capital investments and significant plant construction or expansion, and typically requires long lead-time equipment orders. Advances in technological capabilities allow aluminum rolled products producers to better align product portfolios and supply with industry demand. There are lower cost ways to enter the industry such as continuous casting, which offers the ability to increase capacity in smaller increments than is possible with hot mill additions; however, the continuous casting process results in a more limited range of products.
Trade. Some trade flows occur between regions despite shipping costs, import duties and the lack of localized customer support. Higher value-added products are more likely to be traded internationally, especially if demand in certain markets exceeds local supply. With respect to less technically demanding applications, emerging markets with low cost inputs may export commodity aluminum rolled products to larger, more mature markets, as we have seen with China.

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The following factors have historically affected the demand for aluminum rolled products:
Economic Growth. We believe that economic growth is a significant driver of aluminum rolled products demand. In mature markets, growth in demand has typically correlated closely with industrial production growth. In many emerging markets, growth in demand typically exceeds industrial production growth largely because of expanding infrastructures, capital investments and rising incomes that often accompany economic growth in these markets.
Substitution Trends. Manufacturers’ willingness to substitute other materials for aluminum in their products and competition from substitution materials suppliers also affect demand. There has been a strong substitution trend toward aluminum in the use of vehicles as automobile manufacturers look for ways to meet fuel efficiency regulations, improve performance and reduce carbon emissions in a cost-efficient manner. As a result of aluminum’s durability, strength and light weight, automobile manufacturers are substituting heavier alternatives such as steel and iron with aluminum. Carbon fiber and plastics are other lightweight material options, but their relatively high cost and limited end-of-life recyclability reduce their competitiveness as widespread material substitutes today. Consequently, demand for flat rolled aluminum products has increased. We also see strong substitution trends toward aluminum in the beverage can market. With aluminum being the most sustainable packaging material for beverages, demand for infinitely recyclable aluminum remains strong. Package mix shift from other materials like glass, steel and PET into aluminum, and new beverage introductions – such as energy drinks, canned cocktails, spiked seltzer, and sparkling waters – all support demand levels.
Seasonality. During our third fiscal quarter, we typically experience seasonal slowdowns resulting in lower shipment volumes, although this has been less significant as our product portfolio shifts and diversifies. This is a result of declines in overall production output due primarily to holidays and cooler weather in North America and Europe, our two largest operating regions. We also experience downtime at our mills and customers’ mills due to scheduled plant maintenance and are impacted to a lesser extent by the seasonal downturn in construction activity.
Sustainability. Growing awareness of environmentalism and demand for recyclable products has increased the demand for aluminum rolled products, particularly increased consumer preference for more sustainable beverage packaging options. Unlike other commonly recycled materials such as paper or PET plastic, aluminum can be infinitely recycled without affecting the quality of the product. Additionally, the recycling process uses approximately 95% less energy than is required to produce primary aluminum from mining and smelting, with an equivalent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
Our Business Strategy
Novelis is driven by its purpose to shape a sustainable world together. Our objective as the world’s largest aluminum rolling and recycling company is to lead the aluminum industry as the partner of choice for innovative solutions. We will maximize shareholder value through free cash flow generation and increasing return on capital employed. To achieve these objectives, we will focus on the following areas:
Defend the Core
Novelis is the leading global flat rolled aluminum supplier in the beverage can and automotive markets. We intend to protect our leadership position by continuing to deliver best-in-class customer service with improved quality, service and innovative solutions that differentiate our products. We are committed to producing the best quality products and providing reliable on-time delivery in order to be a true partner in innovation and sustainable supply solutions. We are focused on building and maintaining strong, positive relationships with all of our customers. We have established a global network of Customer Solution Centers to accelerate collaborative innovation between Novelis and automakers to determine how to maximize lightweight, high-strength aluminum for the next generation of vehicle design.
In addition, we will maintain a competitive cost structure by managing metal input costs and employing initiatives to improve operational efficiencies across our global network. This includes a commitment to employee safety, product quality and system reliability. As a manufacturing organization, our primary concern is the health and safety of our employees. We are committed to strengthening a culture of safety across all levels of the organization. We are focused on optimizing our manufacturing and recycling operations to increase asset utilization and productivity. We continue to pursue a standardization of our manufacturing processes where possible, while still allowing the flexibility to respond to local market demands.
Utilizing recycled material allows us to diversify our metal supply, helps control metal costs and provides environmental benefits. We define recycled content as the total amount of scrap metal used in production less melt loss. The percentage of recycled content within our aluminum rolled product shipments increased from 33% to 60% from fiscal 2011 to fiscal 2020. We work closely with our customers on innovation to drive more sustainable products for society. We are the only company of its size offering high-recycled content aluminum sheet for beverage and specialty product customers. We are also working closely with our automotive customers to redesign automotive alloys to be made with more recycled inputs, as well as purchasing the aluminum scrap resulting from our closed-loop recycling partnership with our automotive customers.
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Strengthen our Product Portfolio 
We maintain a focus on capturing global growth in beverage can, automotive and specialty products markets. Our management approach helps us to systematically identify opportunities that improve the profitability of our operations through product portfolio analysis. This ensures that we grow in attractive market segments, while also taking actions to exit unattractive ones. We will continue to focus on these core product markets to drive enhanced profitability, but will also continue to broaden our customer base and explore new verticals and product markets that fit within our overall strategic vision, which is to lead the aluminum industry as the partner of choice for innovative solutions.
Invest in Growth Opportunities 
Over the past several years, we invested in world-class assets and technical capabilities to meet increasing global demand for aluminum within the automotive market due to our continued focus on maintaining a scalable business model and growing alongside our customers. With our existing automotive finishing lines in North America, Europe, and Asia contracted, we are increasing our automotive finishing capacity through two new investments in the U.S. and China. In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2020, we began commissioning a 200 kt greenfield facility in Guthrie, Kentucky. Construction is underway at a 100 kt brownfield expansion at our existing facility in Changzhou, China, with commissioning expected to be completed in fiscal 2021.
We are also investing in new capacity to meet growing demand for aluminum beverage can sheet. Construction is underway to add 100 kt of aluminum rolling and 60 kt of casting and recycling capacity at our flagship South American facility in Pindamonhangaba, Brazil. Commissioning is expected to begin in late fiscal 2021.
In addition to these organic investments, Novelis closed on its acquisition of Aleris Corporation (Aleris), a global supplier of rolled aluminum products, on April 14, 2020. We expect the acquisition to deliver a number of significant benefits by:
Establishing a more diverse product portfolio, which will now include aerospace, beverage can, automotive, building and construction, commercial transportation and specialty products;
Integrating complementary assets in Asia to include recycling, casting, rolling and finishing capabilities and allowing Novelis to more efficiently serve the growing Asia market; and
Leveraging Novelis’ deep manufacturing and recycling expertise to optimize Aleris’ assets and unlock valuable synergies.
We will continue to explore other potential opportunities that will drive profitable volume growth in our core end markets, while maintaining a balanced and disciplined financial approach in our decision making process.
Working Capital
We manage working capital based on cash needs as well as attempting to balance the timing of trade payables and receivables.
Raw Materials and Suppliers
The input materials we use in manufacturing include primary aluminum, recycled aluminum, sheet ingot, alloying elements and grain refiners. These raw materials are generally available from several sources and are not generally subject to supply constraints in normal market conditions. We also consume considerable amounts of energy in the operation of our facilities.
Aluminum
We obtain aluminum from a number of sources, including the following:
Primary Aluminum Sourcing. We purchased or tolled approximately 1,342 kt of primary aluminum in fiscal 2020 in the form of sheet ingot, standard ingot and molten metal.
Aluminum Products Recycling. We operate facilities in several plants to recycle post-consumer aluminum, such as UBCs collected through recycling programs. In addition, we have agreements with several of our large customers where we have a closed-looped system whereby we take production scrap material from their fabricating activity and re-melt, cast and roll it to re-supply these customers with aluminum sheet. Other sources of recycled material include lithographic plates, and products with longer lifespans, like vehicles and buildings, which are starting to become high volume sources of recycled material. We purchased or tolled approximately 1,969 kt of recycled material inputs (less melt loss) in fiscal 2020.
The overall benefit we receive from utilizing recycled metal is influenced by: 1) the overall price levels of the LME and local market premiums, 2) the spread between the price for recycled aluminum and the LME primary aluminum price and 3) our consumption levels of the recycled material inputs. We have in the past and may continue to seek to stabilize our future exposure to metal prices through the use of derivative instruments.
Our recycled content performance and methodology are detailed in our annual Purpose Report, which can be found at www.novelis.com/purpose. Information in our Purpose Report does not constitute part of this Form 10-K.
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Energy
We use several sources of energy in the manufacturing and delivery of our aluminum rolled products. In fiscal 2020, natural gas and electricity represented approximately 97% of our energy consumption by cost. We also use fuel oil and transport fuel. The majority of energy usage occurs at our casting centers and during the hot rolling process. Our cold rolling facilities require relatively less energy. We purchase our natural gas on the open market, which subjects us to market pricing fluctuations. We have in the past and may continue to seek to stabilize our future exposure to natural gas prices through the use of derivative instruments. A portion of our electricity requirements are purchased pursuant to long-term contracts in the local regions in which we operate. A number of our facilities are located in regions with regulated prices, which affords relatively stable costs. We have fixed pricing on some of our energy supply arrangements.
Our Operating Segments
Due in part to the regional nature of supply and demand of aluminum rolled products and in order to best serve our customers, we manage our activities on the basis of geographical areas and are organized under four operating segments: North America, Europe, Asia, and South America. Each segment manufactures aluminum sheet and light gauge products, and recycles aluminum.
The table below shows "Net sales" and total shipments by segment. For additional financial information related to our operating segments, see Note 22 – Segment, Geographical Area, Major Customer and Major Supplier Information to our accompanying consolidated financial statements.
Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
Net sales in millions/shipments in kt202020192018
Consolidated
Net sales$11,217  $12,326  $11,462  
Total shipments3,429  3,419  3,333  
North America(1)
Net sales$4,118  $4,581  $3,951  
Total shipments1,155  1,150  1,090  
Europe(1)
Net sales$3,095  $3,376  $3,447  
Total shipments940  941  938  
Asia(1)
Net sales$1,969  $2,190  $2,110  
Total shipments724  729  719  
South America(1)
Net sales$1,904  $2,091  $1,931  
Total shipments675  663  653  
 _________________________
(1)"Net sales" and "Total shipments" by segment include intersegment sales and the results of our affiliates on a proportionately consolidated basis, which is consistent with the way we manage our business segments.
The following is a description of our operating segments during all or part of March 31, 2020:
North America
Novelis North America operates eight aluminum products facilities. This includes four facilities with recycling operations that re-melt post-consumer aluminum and recycled process material. Most of the recycled material is from UBCs and automotive scrap, and the material is cast into sheet ingot at our plants in Greensboro, Georgia; Berea, Kentucky; Russellville, Kentucky; and Oswego, New York.
Our sites and other plants in North America manufacture a broad range of aluminum sheet and light gauge products. End-use markets for this segment include beverage and food cans, containers and packaging, automotive and other transportation applications, architectural, and other industrial applications. The majority of North America’s volumes are currently directed toward the beverage can sheet market.
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A significant portion of North America’s volumes is also directed toward the aluminum automotive sheet market, currently produced out of our Oswego, New York and Kingston, Ontario plants. In response to continued strong demand for lightweight, automotive aluminum sheet, we have further expanded our automotive finishing capacity in North America with a 200 kt greenfield expansion in Guthrie, Kentucky, which began commissioning in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2020. We expect the final stages of commissioning to be delayed for up to six months due to decreases in near-term demand, with the plant becoming fully operational before the end of fiscal 2021.
Europe
Novelis Europe operates nine aluminum rolled product facilities, including five facilities with recycling operations. Recycling activities occur at Sierre, Switzerland, Pieve, Italy, Latchford, United Kingdom, and Nachterstedt and Neuss, Germany. Our Nachterstedt plant is the largest aluminum recycling facility in the world. We also have distribution centers in Italy and sales offices in several European countries.
These sites manufacture a broad range of sheet and foil products. End-use markets for this segment include beverage and food can, automotive, architectural and industrial products, foil products and other products. Beverage and food can represent the largest end-use market in terms of shipment volume for Europe.
In the second quarter of fiscal 2020, we announced plans to close our Ludenscheid, Germany foil plant, which will allow us to drive more inter-plant efficiencies in the region and optimize our overall product portfolio towards high-margin, recycled-content friendly products. This plant ceased all production during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2020.
Asia
Novelis Asia operates three aluminum rolled product facilities, including two facilities with recycling operations. Recycling activities occur at the Ulsan and Yeongju, South Korea plants. The Ulsan facility operates as a 50/50 joint venture with Kobe Steel. Novelis Asia also owns one recycling facility in Binh Duong, Vietnam, which ceased operations in fiscal 2018. These sites manufacture a broad range of aluminum sheet and light gauge products. End-use markets include beverage and food cans, electronics, architectural, automotive, foil, industrial and other products. The beverage can market represents the largest end-use market in terms of volume.
Due to strong demand for lightweight, automotive aluminum sheet, we are adding 100 kt of additional automotive finishing capacity at our Changzhou, China facility. Construction is underway and is expected to be commissioned in fiscal 2021.
South America
Novelis South America operates two aluminum rolled product facilities. This includes one facility with recycling operations. These facilities manufacture a broad range of can sheet, industrial sheet and light gauge products. The main markets are beverage and food can, specialty, industrial, foil and other packaging and transportation end-use applications. Beverage can represents the largest end-use application in terms of shipment volume.
Due to strong consumer demand for sustainable beverage packaging, we are expanding our Pindamonhangaba, Brazil facility to add 100 kt of aluminum rolling and casting capacity and 60 kt of recycling capacity. Construction is underway and commissioning is expected to begin in late fiscal 2021.
Financial Information About Geographic Areas
Certain financial information about geographic areas is contained in Note 22 – Segment, Geographical Area, Major Customer and Major Supplier Information to our accompanying consolidated financial statements.

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Our Customers
We focus significant efforts on developing and maintaining close working relationships with our customers and end-users. Our major customers include:
Beverage and Food CansAutomotive
Anheuser-Busch InBevBMW Group
Ardagh GroupChery Jaguar Land Rover
Ball Corporation Daimler Group
Can-Pack S.A.Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V.
Crown Holdings Inc.Ford Motor Company
PepsiCoGeneral Motors LLC
Various bottlers of the Coca-Cola SystemHyundai Motors Corporation
Jaguar Land Rover Limited
Construction, Industrial and OtherNIO
Agfa GraphicsVolkswagen Group
Aluflexpack
AmcorElectronics
Facchini S.A. LG International Corporation
FeronSamsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
Klöckner Metals
Lotte Aluminium Co., Ltd.
Prefa
Reynolds Consumer Products LLC
Ryerson Inc.
ThyssenKrupp
Our single largest end-use product is beverage can sheet. We sell can sheet directly to beverage makers and bottlers as well as to can fabricators that sell the cans they produce to bottlers. In certain cases, we operate under umbrella agreements with beverage makers and bottlers under which they direct their can fabricators to source their requirements for beverage can body, end and tab stock from us.
Additional information related to our top customers is contained in Note 22 – Segment, Geographical Area, Major Customer and Major Supplier Information to our accompanying consolidated financial statements.
Distribution and Backlog
We have two principal distribution channels for the end-use markets in which we operate: direct sales to our customers and sales to distributors.
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
 202020192018
Direct sales as a percentage of total "Net sales"
95 %97 %97 %
Distributor sales as a percentage of total "Net sales"
%%%
Direct Sales
We supply various end-use markets all over the world through a direct sales force operating from individual facilities or sales offices, as well as from regional sales offices. The direct sales channel typically serves very large, sophisticated fabricators and original equipment manufacturers. Longstanding relationships are maintained with leading companies in industries using aluminum rolled products. Supply contracts for large global customers generally range from one to five years in length and historically there has been a high degree of renewal business with these customers. Certain customers require suppliers to complete a lengthy and expensive qualification process. The ability to obtain and maintain these qualifications can represent a competitive advantage. Given the customized nature of products and in some cases, large order sizes, switching costs are significant, thus adding to the overall consistency of the customer base.
We also use third party agents or traders in some regions to complement our own sales force. These agents provide service to our customers in countries where we do not have local expertise.
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Distributors
We also sell our products through third party aluminum distributors. Customers of distributors are widely dispersed, and sales through this channel are highly fragmented. Distributors sell mostly commodity or less specialized products into many end-use markets in small quantities, including the architectural and industrial markets. We collaborate with our distributors to develop new end-use products and improve the supply chain and order efficiencies.
Backlog
Order backlog is not a material aspect of our business.
Research and Development
The table below summarizes our "Research and development expenses," which include mini-scale production lines equipped with hot mills, can lines and continuous casters. 
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions202020192018
Research and development expenses$84  $72  $64  
We conduct research and development activities in order to meet current and future customer requirements, improve our products and reduce our conversion costs. We have a global research and technology center in Kennesaw, Georgia, which offers state of the art research and development capabilities to help Novelis meet the global long-term demand for aluminum used for the automotive, beverage can and specialty markets. We also have a global casting engineering and technology center in Spokane, Washington specializing in molten metal processing.
Our Employees
The table below summarizes our approximate number of employees by region, including our proportionate share of those employed by less than wholly owned affiliates. 
North America(1)
EuropeAsiaSouth AmericaTotal
March 31, 20203,760  4,700  1,460  1,670  11,590  
March 31, 20193,510  4,690  1,440  1,630  11,270  
_________________________
(1)Includes employees within our Corporate headquarters located in Atlanta, Georgia.
We consider our employee relations to be satisfactory. A substantial portion of our employees are represented by labor unions and their employment conditions are governed by collective bargaining agreements. Collective bargaining agreements are negotiated on a site, regional or national level, and are of varying durations.
Intellectual Property
We actively review intellectual property arising from our operations and our research and development activities and, when appropriate, we apply for patents in appropriate jurisdictions. We currently hold approximately 2,858 patents and patent applications on approximately 406 different items of intellectual property. While these patents and patent applications are important to our business on an aggregate basis, no single patent or patent application is deemed to be material to our business.
We have applied for, or received registrations for, the "Novelis" word trademark and the Novelis logo trademark in approximately 50 countries where we have significant sales or operations. Novelis uses the Aditya Birla logo under license from Aditya Birla Management Corporation Private Limited.
We have also registered the word "Novelis" and several derivations thereof as domain names in numerous top level domains around the world to protect our presence on the world wide web.
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Environment, Health and Safety
As a purpose-driven company, Novelis is committed to protecting and preserving the environment and the health, safety, and well-being of our colleagues, customers, and communities. Our investments in safety, infrastructure, global partnerships, innovation, and our people have advanced our purpose and positioned our company for long-term sustainable growth. During fiscal 2020, we recycled more than 74 billion used beverage cans, and recycled content made up 60% of total input in our aluminum rolled product. Our plant operations around the globe continue to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, limit water consumption, and lower electricity usage while producing year-over-year improvements in overall production. To further underscore our commitment to safety, we launched several new safety initiatives at our facilities worldwide to help ensure that safety remains our primary focus and is fulfilled every day. During fiscal 2020, 10 facilities achieved major safety milestones, in operating 365 consecutive days without a recordable injury. For more information on the initiatives Novelis has implemented, please read our latest Purpose Report, found at https://novelis.com/purpose. Information in our Purpose Report does not constitute part of this Form 10-K.
Our global operations are subject to environmental laws and regulations from various jurisdictions, which govern, among other things, air emissions, wastewater discharges, the handling, storage and disposal of hazardous substances and wastes, the remediation of contaminated sites, and restoration of natural resources, and employee health and safety. Future environmental regulations may impose stricter compliance requirements on the industries in which we operate. Additional equipment or process changes at some of our facilities may be needed to meet future requirements. The cost of meeting these requirements may be significant. Failure to comply with such laws and regulations could subject us to administrative, civil or criminal penalties, obligations to pay damages or other costs, and injunctions and other orders, including orders to cease operations.
We are involved in proceedings under the U.S. Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, also known as CERCLA or Superfund, or analogous state provisions regarding our liability arising from the usage, storage, treatment or disposal of hazardous substances and wastes at a number of sites in the United States, as well as similar proceedings under the laws and regulations of the other jurisdictions in which we have operations, including Brazil, certain countries in the European Union, and Korea. Many of these jurisdictions have laws that impose joint and several liability, without regard to fault or the legality of the original conduct, for the costs of environmental remediation, natural resource damages, third party claims, and other expenses. In addition, we are, from time to time, subject to environmental reviews and investigations by relevant governmental authorities.
We have established procedures for regularly evaluating environmental loss contingencies, including those arising from environmental reviews and investigations and any other environmental remediation or compliance matters. We believe we have a reasonable basis for evaluating these environmental loss contingencies, and we also believe we have made reasonable estimates for the costs that are reasonably possible for these environmental loss contingencies. Accordingly, we have established liabilities based on our estimates for the currently anticipated costs that are deemed probable associated with these environmental matters. Management has determined that the currently anticipated costs associated with these environmental matters will not, individually or in the aggregate, materially impair our operations or materially adversely affect our financial condition.
Available Information
We are a voluntary filer and not subject to the reporting and information requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (Exchange Act). However, we file periodic reports and other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). We make these filings available on our website free of charge, the URL of which is http://www.novelis.com, as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish it to, the SEC. The SEC maintains a website (http://www.sec.gov) that contains our annual, quarterly and current reports and other information we file electronically with the SEC. Information on our website does not constitute part of this Form 10-K.
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Item 1A. Risk Factors.
In addition to factors discussed elsewhere in this report, the following factors could materially affect our business, financial condition or results of operations in the future. The following factors, among others, could cause our actual results to differ from those projected in any forward looking statements we make.
Competitive and Strategic Risks
Certain of our customers are significant to our revenues, and we could be adversely affected by changes in the business or financial condition of these significant customers or by the loss of their business.
Our ten largest customers accounted for approximately 63%, 65%, and 65% of our total "Net sales" for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, respectively. A significant downturn in the business or financial condition of our significant customers could materially adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows.
In addition, some of our customer contracts are subject to renewal and renegotiation at periodic intervals or upon changes in competitive supply conditions. Our failure to successfully renew or renegotiate such agreements could result in a reduction or loss in customer purchase volume or revenue. Additionally, consolidation among our customers may enable them to use increased leverage in negotiating prices and other contract terms. Consolidation in our customer base may also lead to reduced demand for our products or cancellations of sales orders.
We also factor trade receivables from time to time to manage working capital. Any deterioration of the financial condition or downgrade of the credit rating of certain of our customers may make it more difficult or costly for us to engage in these activities, which could negatively impact our cash flows and liquidity.
We face significant price and other forms of competition from other aluminum rolled products producers and producers of other materials.
The markets in which we operate are highly competitive. We compete primarily on the basis of our value proposition, including price, product quality, ability to meet customers' specifications, range of products offered, global footprint, technical support and customer service. Some of our competitors may benefit from more efficient technologies and lower raw material and energy costs. Increases in competition resulting from new market entrants or increases in production capacity by our competitors could cause us to lose market share or lose a large customer, or force us to reduce prices to remain competitive.
In addition, aluminum competes with other materials, such as steel, plastics, composite materials and glass for various applications, including packaging, automotive, architectural, industrial, and consumer durables end-use markets. Our customers may choose materials other than aluminum to achieve desired attributes for their products. For example, customers in the automotive industry seeking to reduce vehicle weight may increase their use of high-strength steel rather than aluminum for certain applications given the price differential between steel and aluminum.
We may not realize the anticipated benefits of strategic investments.
As part of our strategy for growth, we have in the past and may in the future pursue acquisitions, divestitures, joint ventures or other strategic investments, which may not be completed on time or may not produce the benefits we anticipate. For example, we have announced significant strategic investments in multiple geographic locations, including a $180 million investment in automotive finishing capacity in Changzhou, China, a $175 million investment in recycling and casting capacity at our plant in Pindamonhangaba, Brazil, and a $300 million greenfield automotive finishing expansion in Guthrie, Kentucky. There are numerous risks commonly encountered in strategic transactions, including the risk that management’s time and energy may be diverted, disrupting our existing businesses; and risks that we may not be able to complete a project that has been announced or generate the synergies and other benefits we anticipated.
15


The integration of Aleris into our operations will require significant management attention and may not produce the benefits we anticipate.
Our recently closed acquisition of Aleris involves known and unknown risks that could cause our growth or operating results to differ from our expectations, including:
diversion of management’s attention from regular business by the need to integrate operations;
lack of institutional experience in key markets in which Aleris operates, including aerospace;
problems retaining key employees of Aleris or Novelis;
challenges assimilating intellectual property and information technology systems;
disruption of ongoing relationships with customers, suppliers and contractors;
difficulties maintaining uniform standards, controls, procedures and policies, including an effective system of internal control over financial reporting;
impairment losses related to acquired goodwill and other intangible assets; and
potential adverse short-term effects of increased operating expenses.
An inability to successfully integrate Aleris into our operations without substantial costs, delays or other problems could impede us from realizing the intended benefits of the acquisition, including the synergies and growth opportunities we expect. Our failure to overcome these risks could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and future results of operations.
In connection with our acquisition of Aleris, we are required to undertake asset divestitures that may reduce the value of the acquisition.
On April 14, 2020, we closed our acquisition of Aleris. As a result of the antitrust review processes required for approval of the acquisition, we are now required to divest Aleris' European and North American automotive assets, including its plants in Duffel, Belgium and Lewisport, Kentucky. Until the sales of the Duffel and Lewisport plants are completed, we must continue to hold these assets separate from the rest of Novelis and maintain them as viable and competitive.
In November 2019, we entered into a definitive agreement with Liberty House GHG (Liberty) for the sale of Duffel, which remains subject to approval from the State Administration for Market Regulation in China (SAMR). Although we received conditional antitrust approval from SAMR in December 2019, there is no assurance that SAMR will approve Liberty as the purchaser of Duffel or that the other customary closing conditions in our agreement with Liberty will be satisfied. If the sale to Liberty is not completed, we may be unable to find a suitable purchaser for Duffel, or we may not be able to structure the divestiture on acceptable terms or achieve a favorable price.
In addition, in light of current adverse market conditions, Novelis may not be able to complete the divestiture of Lewisport on favorable terms, in a timely manner, or at all. Delays or difficulties in divesting Duffel or Lewisport may result in additional expenditures of funds and management resources which would reduce the financial benefit we expect from our acquisition of Aleris and could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
See Note 24 – Subsequent Events - Aleris Acquisition for additional discussion.
Operational Risks
If we are unable to obtain sufficient quantities of primary aluminum, recycled aluminum, sheet ingot and other raw materials used in the production of our products, our ability to produce and deliver products or to manufacture products using the desired mix of metal inputs could be adversely affected.
The supply risks relating to our metal inputs vary by input type. For example, we produce some of our sheet ingot requirements internally and source the remainder from multiple third parties in various jurisdictions, usually under contracts having a duration of at least one year. If our suppliers are unable to deliver sufficient quantities of aluminum and other raw materials to the necessary locations on a timely basis, our production could be disrupted and our net sales, profitability and cash flows could be adversely affected. Although aluminum is traded on global exchanges, developing alternative suppliers of sheet ingot could be time consuming and expensive.
16


Our operations are energy-intensive and our profitability and cash flows may decline if energy costs were to rise, or if our energy supplies were interrupted.
We consume substantial amounts of energy in our rolling and casting operations. The factors affecting our energy costs and supply reliability tend to be specific to each of our facilities. A number of factors could materially affect our energy position adversely including:
increases in costs of natural gas;
increases in costs of supplied electricity;
increases in fuel oil related to transportation;
interruptions in energy supply due to equipment failure or other causes; and
the inability to extend energy supply contracts upon expiration on favorable terms.
If energy costs were to rise, or if energy supplies or supply arrangements were disrupted, our profitability and cash flows could decline.
Our business and operations, and the operations of our suppliers and customers, may be adversely affected by public health crises, such as the recent COVID-19 outbreak.
We face risks related to public health crises, including outbreaks of communicable diseases. The outbreak of such a communicable disease could result in a widespread health crisis that could adversely affect general commercial activity and the economies and financial markets of many countries. For example, the recent outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19) has spread across the globe to many countries in which we do business and is impacting worldwide economic activity.
A public health crisis, including the COVID-19 pandemic, poses the risk that we or our employees, contractors, suppliers, customers and other business partners may be prevented from conducting business activities for an indefinite period of time, including due to shutdowns that may be requested or mandated by governmental authorities, or that such crisis may otherwise interrupt or impair business activities. For example, we are experiencing disruption to our global aluminum production and supply chain as a result of some of our customers and suppliers temporarily suspending their operations due to the COVID-19 outbreak. In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2020, we adjusted schedules and temporarily suspended operations at some of our plants in response to governmental orders and reductions in customer demand for products we supply to the automotive end-use market. In addition, our previously announced capacity expansions in Guthrie, Kentucky and Changzhou, China have been delayed due to reductions in near-term demand. We have also experienced difficulties accessing adequate supplies of scrap aluminum in certain locations. Due to the unpredictable nature of the pandemic and resulting macroeconomic impact, these disruptions may continue to adversely impact our business.
Additionally, as a result of the Aleris acquisition, we expect to derive future revenues from customers in the aerospace end-use market. Due to severe impacts from the global COVID-19 pandemic, demand for air travel has declined dramatically in recent months, resulting in airline capacity reductions. If these reductions are sustained, we may experience a decline in future orders from aerospace customers, which could negatively impact our business.
The COVID-19 pandemic and similar health crises could have a material effect on our liquidity. While we have been successful in securing financing in the past, there is uncertainty as to whether sufficient and timely financing will be available to us in the future given the impact of COVID-19 on the financial markets. For example, we may find it difficult or expensive to refinance existing short-term debt we incurred as part of our financing of the Aleris acquisition. In addition, working capital financing, including factoring and other types of supply chain financing, could be modified or canceled by our counterparties at any time.
While it is not possible at this time to estimate the impact that COVID-19 could have on our operations and those of our suppliers and customers, its continued spread, the measures taken by the governments of countries affected, actions taken to protect employees, and the impact of the pandemic on various business activities in affected countries could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
A majority of our facilities are staffed by a unionized workforce, and union disputes and other employee relations issues could materially adversely affect our financial results.
In each geographic region where we have operating facilities, a substantial portion of our employees are represented by labor unions under collective bargaining agreements with varying durations and expiration dates. Although we have not experienced a strike or work stoppage in recent years, we may not be successful in preventing such an event from occurring in the future at one or more of our manufacturing facilities. In addition, we may not be able to satisfactorily renegotiate our collective bargaining agreements when they expire.
Any work stoppages or material changes in the terms of our labor agreements could have an adverse impact on our financial condition.
17


Loss of our key management and other personnel, or an inability to attract and retain such management and other personnel, could adversely impact our business.
We employ all of our senior executive officers and other highly-skilled key employees on an at-will basis, and their employment can be terminated by us or them at any time, for any reason and without notice, subject, in certain cases, to severance payment obligations. Competition for qualified employees among companies that rely heavily on engineering and technology is intense, and if our highly skilled key employees leave us, we may be unable to promptly attract and retain qualified replacement personnel, which could result in our inability to improve manufacturing operations, conduct research activities successfully, develop marketable products and compete effectively for growth in key markets.
We could be adversely affected by unplanned disruptions at operating facilities.
In the past, we have experienced production interruptions at our plants due to the breakdown of equipment, fires, weather events, public health crises, and other causes. As discussed above, we have temporarily suspended operations at some of our plants as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak.
We may experience such disruptions in the future due to similar uncontrollable events. Because many of our customers are, to varying degrees, dependent on planned deliveries from our plants, any customers that have to reschedule their own production due to our missed deliveries could pursue claims against us and reduce their future business with us. In addition to facing claims from customers, we may incur costs to correct any of these problems. Further, our reputation among actual and potential customers may be harmed, resulting in loss of business. While we maintain insurance policies covering, among other things, physical damage, business interruptions and product liability, these policies may not cover all of our losses.
Our business has been and will continue to be exposed to various economic and political risks associated with our global operations.
Due to the global reach of our business, we are subject to financial, political, economic and other business risks in connection with doing business abroad. Operating in diverse geographic regions exposes us to a number of risks and uncertainties, such as changes in international trade regulation, including duties and tariffs; political instability that may disrupt economic activity, including the uncertainty related to the United Kingdom’s withdrawal from the European Union; and economic and commercial instability.
Our financial condition and results of operations depend significantly on worldwide economic conditions. Future adverse developments in the U.S. economy or in other countries where we do business pose a risk because our customers may postpone purchases in response to demand reductions, negative financial news and tighter credit.
We face risks relating to certain joint ventures, subsidiaries and assets that we do not entirely control.
Some of our activities are, and will in the future be, conducted through entities that we do not entirely control or wholly-own. These entities include our Alunorf, Germany, Ulsan, Korea and Logan, Kentucky joint ventures. Under the governing documents of these businesses, we share decision making authority and operational control which may result in conflicts over management over these businesses. In addition, because we do not exercise control over the business practices of our joint venture partners, we could be subject to reputational damage or other consequences of improper conduct by our joint venture partners or their inability to fulfill their obligations under the joint venture.
Security breaches and other disruptions to our information technology networks and systems could interfere with our operations, and could compromise the confidentiality of our proprietary information.
We rely upon information technology networks and systems, some of which are managed by third parties, to process, transmit and store electronic information, and to manage or support a variety of business and manufacturing processes and activities. Additionally, we collect and store sensitive data, including intellectual property, proprietary business information, as well as personally identifiable information of our employees, in data centers and on information technology networks. These activities are subject to various laws and regulations in the United States and abroad regarding privacy and data security.
We have increased our management focus on and financial investments in systems and processes intended to secure our information technology systems, prevent unauthorized access to or loss of sensitive data, ensure business continuity and comply with applicable laws. These efforts include engaging third party providers from time to time to test the vulnerability of our systems and recommend solutions to upgrade the security of our systems. We also employ a number of measures to protect and defend against cyber attacks, including technical security controls, data encryption, firewalls, intrusion prevention systems, anti-virus software and frequent backups.
18


Despite the measures we have taken, our information technology networks and systems may be vulnerable to damage, disruptions or shutdowns due to attacks by hackers or breaches due to errors or malfeasance by employees, contractors and others who have access to our networks and systems, or other disruptions during the process of upgrading or replacing computer software or hardware, power outages, computer viruses, telecommunication or utility failures or natural disasters or other catastrophic events. The occurrence of any of these events could compromise our networks and the information stored there could be accessed, publicly disclosed, lost or stolen. Any such access, disclosure or other loss of information could result in legal claims or proceedings, liability or regulatory penalties under laws protecting the privacy of personal information, disrupt operations and reduce the competitive advantage we hope to derive from our investment in new or proprietary business initiatives.
Financial Risks
Our results and short term liquidity can be negatively impacted by timing differences between the prices we pay under purchase contracts and metal prices we charge our customers.
Our purchase and sales contracts for primary aluminum are based on the LME price plus a regional market premium, which is a surcharge in addition to the LME price. There are typically timing differences between the pricing periods for purchases and sales where purchase prices we pay tend to be fixed and paid earlier than sales prices we charge our customers. This creates a price exposure we call "metal price lag." We use derivative instruments to manage the timing differences related to LME associated with metal price lag. Under normal market conditions, the majority of our premium exposure hedging occurs in North America, although the exposure is not hedged. For our Europe, South America and Asia businesses, the derivative market for local market premiums is not sufficiently robust or efficient for us to offset the impacts of local market premium price movements beyond a small volume. The timing difference associated with metal price lag could positively or negatively impact our operating results and short term liquidity.
A deterioration of our financial condition, a downgrade of our ratings by a credit rating agency or other factors could limit our ability to enter into, or increase our costs of, financing and hedging transactions, and our business relationships and financial condition could be adversely affected.
A deterioration of our financial condition or a downgrade of our credit ratings for any reason could increase our borrowing costs, limit our access to the capital or credit markets, adversely affect our ability to obtain new financing on favorable terms or at all, result in more restrictive covenants and have an adverse effect on our business relationships with customers, suppliers and financial counterparties. From time to time, we enter into various forms of hedging activities against currency, interest rate, energy and metal price fluctuations. Financial strength and credit ratings are important to the availability and terms of these hedging activities. As a result, any deterioration of our financial condition or downgrade of our credit ratings may make it more difficult or costly for us to engage in these activities in the future.
Certain of our debt agreements use LIBOR as a reference rate for interest rate calculations. In July 2017, the U.K.’s Financial Conduct Authority, which regulates LIBOR, announced that it intends to phase out LIBOR by the end of 2021. The U.S. Federal Reserve has begun publishing a Secured Overnight Funding Rate, which is intended to replace U.S. dollar LIBOR. Plans for alternative reference rates for other currencies have also been announced. At this time, we cannot predict how markets will respond to these proposed alternative rates or the effect of any changes to LIBOR or the discontinuation of LIBOR. If LIBOR is no longer available or if our lenders have increased costs due to changes in LIBOR, we may experience potential increases in interest rates on our variable rate debt, which could adversely impact our results of operations. In addition, some of our debt agreements which use LIBOR as a reference rate do not contain fallback reference rates. If LIBOR is discontinued, we may incur additional costs related to contract renegotiation for such agreements.
Adverse changes in currency exchange rates could negatively affect our financial results or cash flows and the competitiveness of our aluminum rolled products relative to other materials.
We are exposed to the effects of changes in the exchange rates of the U.S. dollar, the Euro, the British pound, the Brazilian real, the Korean won, the Swiss franc and other currencies. We have implemented a hedging policy to manage currency exchange rate risks to an acceptable level based on management's judgment of the appropriate trade-off between risk, opportunity and cost; however, this hedging policy may not successfully or completely eliminate the effects of currency exchange rate fluctuations, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial results and cash flows.
We prepare our consolidated financial statements in U.S. dollars, but a portion of our earnings and expenditures are denominated in other currencies, primarily the Euro, the Korean won and the Brazilian real. Changes in exchange rates will result in increases or decreases in our operating results and may also affect the book value of our assets located outside the U.S.
19


Our results of operations, cash flows and liquidity could be adversely affected if we were unable to transact in derivative instruments or if counterparties to our derivative instruments fail to honor their agreements.
From time to time, we use various derivative instruments to manage the risks arising from fluctuations in aluminum prices, exchange rates, energy prices and interest rates. If for any reason we were unable to transact in derivative instruments to manage these risks, our results of operations, cash flows and liquidity could be adversely affected. In addition, we may be exposed to losses in the future if the counterparties to our derivative instruments fail to honor their agreements. In particular, deterioration in the financial condition of our counterparties and any resulting failure to pay amounts owed to us or to perform obligations owed to us could have a negative effect on our business and financial condition. Further, if major financial institutions consolidate and are forced to operate under more restrictive capital constraints and regulations, there could be less liquidity, or higher costs to transact, in the derivative markets, which could have a negative effect on our ability or our costs to hedge and transact with creditworthy counterparties.
An adverse decline in the liability discount rate, lower-than-expected investment return on pension assets and other factors could affect our results of operations or amount of pension funding contributions in future periods.
Most of our pension obligations relate to funded defined benefit pension plans for our employees in the U.S., the U.K. Switzerland, and Canada, unfunded pension benefits in Germany and lump sum indemnities payable to our employees in France, Italy, and Korea upon retirement or termination. Our pension plan assets consist primarily of funds invested in stocks and bonds. Our estimates of liabilities and expenses for pensions and other postretirement benefits incorporate a number of assumptions, including expected long-term rates of return on pension plan assets and interest rates used to discount future benefits. The most significant year-end assumptions used by Novelis to estimate pension or other postretirement benefit income or expense for the following year are the discount rate applied to plan liabilities and the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets. Our results of operations, liquidity or shareholder's (deficit) equity in a particular period could be adversely affected by capital market returns that are less than their assumed long-term rate of return or a decline of the rate used to discount future benefits. These factors or others may require us to make unexpected cash contributions to the pension plans in the future, preventing the use of such cash for other purposes.
Our goodwill, other intangible assets and other long-lived assets could become impaired, which could require us to take non-cash charges against earnings.
We assess, at least annually and potentially more frequently, whether the value of our goodwill has been impaired. We assess the recoverability of finite-lived other intangible assets and other long-lived assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate we may not be able to recover the asset's carrying amount. Any impairment of goodwill, other intangible assets, or long-lived assets as a result of such analysis would result in a non-cash charge against earnings, which could materially adversely affect our reported results of operations. A significant and sustained decline in our future cash flows, a significant adverse change in the economic environment or slower growth rates could result in the need to perform additional impairment analysis in future periods.
In connection with the Aleris acquisition, we are considering the guidance in ASC 360-10, Impairment and Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, and will continue to assess whether any adjustments to the carrying amounts of either Duffel or Lewisport are required as we finalize our fair value assessments. If the final sale price for Duffel and/or Lewisport is less than our estimated fair value for the asset, an impairment charge would be recognized in future periods.
Additional tax expense, tax liabilities or tax compliance costs could adversely impact our profitability.
We are subject to income taxation in many jurisdictions. Judgment is required in determining our worldwide income tax provision and accordingly there are many transactions and computations for which our final income tax determination is uncertain. We are routinely audited by income tax authorities in many tax jurisdictions. Although we believe the recorded tax estimates are reasonable, the ultimate outcome from any audit (or related litigation) could be materially different from amounts reflected in our income tax provisions and accruals. Future settlements of income tax audits may have a material effect on earnings between the period of initial recognition of tax estimates in the financial statements and the point of ultimate tax audit settlement. Additionally, it is possible that future income tax legislation in any jurisdiction to which we are subject may be enacted that could have a material impact on our worldwide income tax provision beginning with the period that such legislation becomes effective. For example, the U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (the "Act"), which was enacted in the United States on December 22, 2017, introduced extensive reforms of the Internal Revenue Code. During 2018 and 2019, the Internal Revenue Service began a number of guidance projects which serve to both interpret and implement the Act. Those guidance projects, which included both Proposed and Final Treasury Regulations, will continue into 2020. We will continue to evaluate the overall impact of the Act on our effective tax rate and balance sheet in light of current and future regulations and interpretive guidance from tax authorities. For additional discussion of the Act and tax amounts recorded in our financial statements, see "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations."
20


The covenants in our credit facilities and the indentures governing our Senior Notes impose operating and financial restrictions on us.
Our credit facilities and the indentures governing our Senior Notes impose certain operating and financial restrictions on us. These restrictions limit our ability and the ability of our restricted subsidiaries, among other things, to:
incur additional debt and provide additional guarantees;
pay dividends and make other restricted payments, including certain investments;
create or permit certain liens;
make certain asset sales;
use the proceeds from the sales of assets and subsidiary stock;
create or permit restrictions on the ability of our restricted subsidiaries to pay dividends or make other distributions to us;
engage in certain transactions with affiliates;
make certain acquisitions;
enter into sale and leaseback transactions; and
consolidate, merge or transfer all or substantially all of our assets or the assets of our restricted subsidiaries.
See Note 12 – Debt for additional discussion.
Other Legal and Regulatory Risks
Our global operations are subject to changes in laws and government regulations that may adversely affect our business and operations.
Compliance with U.S. and foreign laws and regulations, such as import and export requirements, embargoes and trade sanctions laws, anti-corruption laws, tax laws, foreign exchange controls and cash repatriation restrictions and data privacy regulations, increases our costs of doing business outside the U.S.
In addition, the global scale of our operations exposes us to risks relating to international trade policies including import quotas and tariffs, as well as retaliatory policies by governments against such policies. Changes in regulations and policies can impact the competitiveness of our products and negatively impact our business, results of operations and financial condition.
We are subject to a broad range of environmental, health and safety laws and regulations, and we may be exposed to substantial environmental, health and safety costs and liabilities.
We are subject to a broad range of environmental, health and safety laws and regulations in the jurisdictions in which we operate. These laws and regulations impose stringent environmental, health and safety protection standards and permitting requirements regarding, among other things, air emissions, wastewater storage, treatment and discharges, the use and handling of hazardous or toxic materials, waste disposal practices, the remediation of environmental contamination, post-mining reclamation and working conditions for our employees. The costs of complying with these laws and regulations, including participation in assessments and remediation of contaminated sites and installation of pollution control facilities, have been, and in the future could be, significant. In addition, these laws and regulations may also result in substantial environmental liabilities associated with divested assets, third party locations and past activities. The impact that our operations may have on the environment, as well as exposures to hazardous substances or wastes associated with our operations, could result in civil or criminal fines or penalties and enforcement actions issued by regulatory or judicial authorities enjoining, curtailing or closing operations or requiring corrective measures, any of which could materially and adversely affect us.
Further, increased concern over climate change has led to new and proposed legislative and regulatory initiatives, such as cap- and-trade systems and additional limits on emissions of greenhouse gases or Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards in the United States. Additional new regulation could directly and indirectly affect our customers and suppliers (through an increase in the cost of production or their ability to produce satisfactory products) or our business (through an impact on our inventory availability, cost of sales, operations or demand for the products we sell). Any increased costs of these energy sources because of new laws could be passed along to us and our customers and suppliers, which could also have a negative impact on our profitability.
We may be exposed to significant legal proceedings or investigations.
From time to time, we are involved in, or the subject of, disputes, proceedings and investigations with respect to a variety of matters, including intellectual property, environmental, health and safety, product liability, employee, tax, personal injury, contractual and other matters as well as other disputes and proceedings that arise in the ordinary course of business.
21


Any claims against us or any investigations involving us, whether meritorious or not, could be costly to defend or comply with and could divert management's attention as well as operational resources. Any such dispute, litigation or investigation, whether currently pending or threatened in the future, may have a material adverse effect on our financial results and cash flows. We generally maintain insurance against many product liability risks, but there can be no assurance that this coverage will be adequate for any liabilities ultimately incurred. In addition, there is no assurance that insurance will continue to be available on terms acceptable to us.
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments.
None.
22


Item 2. Properties.
Our global headquarters are located in Atlanta, Georgia. Our global research and technology center, located in Kennesaw, Georgia, contains state-of-the-art research and development capabilities to help us better partner and innovate with our customers. We also have a global casting engineering and technology center in Spokane, Washington specializing in molten metal processing. Our regional headquarters are located in the following cities: North America - Atlanta, Georgia; Europe - Küsnacht, Switzerland; Asia - Seoul, South Korea; and South America - Sao Paulo, Brazil.
The total number of operating facilities within our operating segments as of March 31, 2020 is shown in the table below, including operating facilities we jointly own and operate with third parties.
Total
Operating
Facilities
Facilities
with Recycling
Operations
North America  
Europe  
Asia  
South America  
Total22  12  
The following tables provide information, by operating segment, about the plant locations, processes and major end-use markets/applications for the aluminum rolled products, recycling and primary metal facilities we operated during all or part of the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020.
North America 
Locations(1)
Plant ProcessesMajor Products
Berea, KentuckyRecycling, sheet ingot castingSheet ingot from recycled metal
Fairmont, West VirginiaCold rolling, finishingContainer, HVAC and auto fin material
Greensboro, GeorgiaRecycling, sheet ingot castingSheet ingot from recycled metal
Kingston, OntarioCold rolling, finishingAutomotive sheet, construction sheet, industrial sheet
Oswego, New YorkSheet ingot casting, hot rolling, cold rolling, recycling, brazing, finishing, heat treatmentCan stock, automotive sheet, construction sheet, industrial sheet, semi-finished coil
Russellville, Kentucky(2)
Hot rolling, cold rolling, finishing, remelt, casting, recyclingCan stock, industrial sheet
Terre Haute, IndianaCold rolling, finishingContainer and industrial material
Warren, OhioCoating, finishingCan stock coating
_________________________ 
(1)In January 2018, we announced a greenfield expansion to be located in Guthrie, Kentucky that would include heat treatment and pre-treatment lines for automotive sheet finishing. The Guthrie facility is expected to become operational in fiscal 2021.
(2)Logan Aluminum Inc. (Logan), located in Russellville, Kentucky, is operated as a joint venture between Novelis and Tri-Arrows Aluminum Inc. (Tri-Arrows). We own 40% of the outstanding common shares of Logan. See Note 8 – Consolidation for further information about this affiliate.


23


Europe
Locations(1)
Plant ProcessesMajor Products
Bresso, ItalyFinishing, paintingPainted sheet, construction sheet
Crick, United KingdomFinishingAutomotive sheet
Göttingen, GermanyCold rolling, finishing, paintingCan stock, food can, painted sheet
Latchford, United KingdomRecyclingSheet ingot from recycled metal
Nachterstedt, GermanyCold rolling, finishing, painting, recycling, heat treatmentAutomotive sheet, can stock, industrial sheet, painted sheet, construction sheet, sheet ingot
Neuss, Germany(2)
Hot rolling, cold rolling, recyclingCan stock, foil stock, feeder stock for finishing operations
Ohle, GermanyCold rolling, finishing, convertingFoil, packaging
Pieve, ItalyContinuous casting, cold rolling, finishing, recyclingCoil for finishing operations, industrial sheet
Sierre, Switzerland(3)
Sheet ingot casting, hot rolling, cold rolling, finishing, recyclingAutomotive sheet, industrial sheet
_________________________ 
(1)In the second quarter of fiscal 2020, we announced plans to close our Ludenscheid, Germany foil plant, which will allow us to drive more inter-plant efficiencies in the region and optimize our overall product portfolio towards high-margin, recycled-content friendly products. This plant ceased all production near the end of the fourth quarter of fiscal 2020. As such, we have excluded this facility from our count of total operating facilities.
(2)Aluminium Norf GmbH (Alunorf) is operated as a 50/50 production joint venture between Novelis and Hydro Aluminium Deutschland GmbH (Hydro). See Note 9 – Investment in and Advances to Non-Consolidated Affiliates and Related Party Transactions for further information about this affiliate.
(3)Novelis operates a wholly owned facility in Sierre, Switzerland. In addition to this facility, AluInfra Services SA (AluInfra) is operated as a 50/50 joint venture between Novelis and Constellium Valais SA (Constellium) and provides utility services to each partner. See Note 9 – Investment in and Advances to Non-Consolidated Affiliates and Related Party Transactions for further information about this affiliate.
Asia
LocationsPlant ProcessesMajor Products
Changzhou, ChinaHeat treatmentAutomotive sheet
Ulsan, South Korea(1)
Sheet ingot casting, hot rolling, cold rolling, recycling, finishingCan stock, construction sheet, industrial sheet, electronics, automotive sheet for finishing operations, foil stock, and recycled material
Yeongju, South KoreaSheet ingot casting, hot rolling, cold rolling, recycling, finishingCan stock, construction sheet, industrial sheet, electronics, foil stock and recycled material
_________________________ 
(1)Ulsan Aluminum, Ltd. (UAL) is operated as a 50/50 joint venture between Novelis and Kobe. See Note 9 – Investment in and Advances to Non-Consolidated Affiliates and Related Party Transactions for further information about this affiliate.
South America
LocationsPlant ProcessesMajor Products
Pindamonhangaba, BrazilSheet ingot casting, hot rolling, cold rolling, recycling, finishing, coatingCan stock, construction sheet, industrial sheet, foil stock, sheet ingot
Santo Andre, BrazilFoil rolling, finishingFoil

Item 3. Legal Proceedings.
We are a party to litigation incidental to our business from time to time. For additional information regarding litigation to which we are a party, see Note 21 – Commitments and Contingencies to our accompanying consolidated financial statements, which are incorporated by reference into this item.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures.
Not applicable.

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PART II
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Shareholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.
There is no established public trading market for the Company’s common stock. All of the common shares of Novelis are owned directly by AV Metals Inc. and indirectly by Hindalco Industries Limited. None of the equity securities of the Company are authorized for issuance under any equity compensation plan.
Dividends or returns of capital are at the discretion of the board of directors and will depend on, among other things, our financial resources, cash flows generated by our business, our cash requirements, legal restrictions under debt covenant agreements and other relevant factors.
Item 6. Selected Financial Data.
The selected consolidated financial data should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements for the respective periods and the related notes included elsewhere in this Form 10-K.
All of our common shares were indirectly held by Hindalco; thus, earnings per share data is not reported.
 
 March 31,
in millions20202019201820172016
Net sales$11,217  $12,326  $11,462  $9,591  $9,872  
Net income (loss) attributable to our common shareholder$420  $434  $635  $45  $(38) 
 
March 31,
in millions20202019201820172016
Cash and cash equivalents$2,392  $950  $920  $594  $556  
Total assets
$10,989  $9,568  $9,520  $8,378  $8,285  
Long-term debt (including current portion)$5,364  $4,347  $4,457  $4,558  $4,468  
Short–term borrowings$176  $39  $49  $294  $579  
Total equity (deficit)$1,361  $1,071  $828  $(72) $(54) 


25


Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
OVERVIEW AND REFERENCES
Novelis is the leading producer of flat-rolled aluminum products and the world's largest recycler of aluminum. Driven by our purpose to shape a sustainable world together, we work alongside our customers to provide innovative solutions to the beverage can, automotive, and specialty markets (includes foil packaging, certain transportation products, architectural, industrial, and consumer durables). We have recycling operations in many of our plants to recycle both post-consumer aluminum and post-industrial aluminum. As of March 31, 2020, we had manufacturing operations in nine countries on four continents, which include 22 operating plants, and recycling operations in 12 of these plants.
The following discussion contains forward-looking statements that reflect our plans, estimates and beliefs. Our actual results could differ materially from those discussed in these forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to these differences include, but are not limited to, those discussed below and elsewhere in this Form 10-K, particularly in "Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements and Market Data" and "Risk Factors."
Our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019 includes a discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations for the year ended March 31, 2018 in Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
HIGHLIGHTS
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2020 Compared with the Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2019
We reported "Net income attributable to our common shareholder" of $420 million, which is a decrease compared to $434 million in the prior period but includes $71 million of a "Loss on extinguishment of debt."
We reported an increase in "Segment income" to $1,472 million compared to $1,368 million in the prior period. Operational performance was driven by favorable price and product mix, due to portfolio optimization efforts, and improved cost efficiencies, as we focus on driving operation improvements in our plants. As a result of these factors, net cash provided by operating activities was $962 million and free cash flow was $384 million. Refer to "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" for our definition of Free Cash Flow.
The actions we have taken over the past several years to strengthen our product portfolio, optimize and enhance the reliability of our operations, and deliver innovative products and excellent customer service are evidenced by our strong financial performance and robust balance sheet. With these strong results, Novelis is well positioned to navigate near-term economic headwinds and uncertainty, and to grow over the long term.
Our strategy to grow the business both organically and inorganically will help us achieve our long-term goals. This includes recent organic investments to expand automotive finishing capacity in Guthrie, Kentucky, in the U.S, and in Changzhou, China, as well as rolling, casting and recycling capacity in Pindamonhangaba, Brazil. We expect to achieve further growth and diversification with the acquisition of Aleris, a global supplier of rolled aluminum products. The transaction closed on April 14, 2020. Aleris provides entry into the aerospace market, an operation in China that can be fully optimized, and a profitable building and construction business. We believe that our compatible cultures and shared commitment to safety will pave the way for a successful integration of businesses and employees.
We are also continuing to deliver on our purpose of shaping a sustainable world by utilizing high levels of recycled content in our products and maximizing the advantages of sustainable, lightweight aluminum to benefit our customers, partners and the communities where we live and work.

26


BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY CLIMATE
Economic growth, material substitution, and sustainability, including environmental awareness around polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastics, continue to drive increasing global demand for aluminum and rolled products. With the exception of China where can sheet overcapacity and strong competition remains, favorable market conditions and increasing customer preference for sustainable packaging options is driving higher demand for infinitely recyclable aluminum beverage cans and bottles. At the end of fiscal 2019, we began expanding rolling, casting and recycling capability in Pindamonhangaba, Brazil to support this demand.
Meanwhile, the demand for aluminum in the automotive industry continues to grow, which drove the investments we made in our automotive sheet finishing capacity in North America, Europe and Asia in recent years, and is driving our additional investments in Guthrie, Kentucky (U.S.) and Changzhou, China. This demand has been primarily driven by the benefits that result from using lightweight aluminum in vehicle structures and components, as companies respond to stricter government emissions and fuel economy regulations, while maintaining or improving vehicle safety and performance, resulting in increased competition with high-strength steel.
The worldwide spread of the COVID-19 pandemic has caused travel and business disruption and economic volatility. There have been government mandates to stay at home or avoid large gatherings of people. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, some of our customers have temporarily shut down their manufacturing facilities, causing disruption to our global aluminum production and supply chain. Additionally, we have temporarily shut down some of our own production as a result, and our previously announced capacity expansions in Guthrie, Kentucky and Changzhou, China have been delayed due to reductions in near-term demand.
We are closely monitoring the changing landscape with respect to COVID-19 and taking actions to manage our business and support our customers, while focusing on the health and safety of our employees.
Key Sales and Shipment Trends
Three Months EndedFiscal Year EndedThree Months EndedFiscal Year Ended
in millions, except shipments which are in kt
June 30,
2018
Sep 30,
2018
Dec 31,
2018
Mar 31,
2019
Mar 31,
2019
June 30,
2019
Sep 30,
2019
Dec 31,
2019
Mar 31,
2020
Mar 31,
2020
Net sales$3,097  $3,136  $3,009  $3,084  $12,326  $2,925  $2,851  $2,715  $2,726  $11,217  
Percentage increase (decrease) in net sales versus comparable previous year period16 %12 %%%%(6)%(9)%(10)%(12)%(9)%
Rolled product shipments:
North America274  295  279  294  1,142  289  286  269  267  1,111  
Europe232  229  211  246  918  234  245  224  220  923  
Asia175  168  182  198  723  184  177  173  184  718  
South America126  126  142  143  537  139  141  146  148  574  
Eliminations(10) (11) (14) (11) (46) (16) (14) (15) (8) (53) 
Total797  807  800  870  3,274  830  835  797  811  3,273  
The following summarizes the percentage increase (decrease) in rolled product shipments versus the comparable previous year period:
North America— %%%%%%(3)%(4)%(9)%(3)%
Europe(1)%(3)%(5)%%(1)%%%%(11)%%
Asia(3)%(7)%%14 %%%%(5)%(7)%(1)%
South America15 %(4)%(3)%%%10 %12 %%%%
Total%%%%%%%— %(7)%— %
Business Model and Key Concepts
Conversion Business Model
A significant amount of our business is conducted under a conversion model, which allows us to pass through increases or decreases in the price of aluminum to our customers. Nearly all of our flat rolled products have a price structure with three components: (i) a base aluminum price quoted off the LME; (ii) a local market premium; and (iii) a "conversion premium" to produce the rolled product which reflects, among other factors, the competitive market conditions for that product. Base aluminum prices are typically driven by macroeconomic factors and global supply and demand for aluminum. The local market premiums tend to vary based on the supply and demand for metal in a particular region and associated transportation costs.
27


In North America, Europe and South America, we pass through local market premiums to our customers which are recorded through "Net sales." In Asia we purchase our metal inputs based on the LME and incur a local market premium; however, many of our competitors in this region price their metal off the Shanghai Futures Exchange, which does not include a local market premium, making it difficult for us to fully pass through this component of our metal input cost to some of our customers.
LME Base Aluminum Prices and Local Market Premiums
The average (based on the simple average of the monthly averages) and closing prices for aluminum set on the LME for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018 are as follows:
  Percent Change
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2020
versus
March 31, 2019
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2019
versus
March 31, 2018
202020192018
Aluminum (per metric tonne, and presented in U.S. dollars):
Closing cash price as of beginning of period$1,900  $1,997  $1,947  (5)%%
Average cash price during period$1,749  $2,035  $2,045  (14)%— %
Closing cash price as of end of period$1,489  $1,900  $1,997  (22)%(5)%
For the fiscal years ended March 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, the weighted average local market premium was as follows:
Percent Change
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2020
versus
March 31, 2019
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2019
versus
March 31, 2018
 202020192018
Weighted average local market premium (per metric tonne, and presented in U.S. dollars)$204  $268  $192  (24)%40 %
Metal Price Lag and Related Hedging Activities
Increases or decreases in the price of aluminum based on the average LME base aluminum prices and local market premiums directly impact “Net sales,” “Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)” and working capital. The timing of these impacts varies based on contractual arrangements with customers and metal suppliers in each region. These timing impacts are referred to as metal price lag. Metal price lag exists due to: (i) the period of time between the pricing of our purchases of metal, holding and processing the metal, and the pricing of the sale of finished inventory to our customers, and (ii) certain customer contracts containing fixed forward price commitments which result in exposure to changes in metal prices for the period of time between when our sales price fixes and the sale actually occurs.
We use LME aluminum forward contracts to preserve our conversion margins and manage the timing differences associated with the LME base metal component of “Net sales,” and “Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)." These derivatives directly hedge the economic risk of future LME base metal price fluctuations to better match the purchase price of metal with the sales price of metal. The majority of our local market premium hedging occurs in North America depending on market conditions; however, exposure here is not fully hedged. In our Europe, Asia and South America regions, the derivative market for local market premiums is not robust or efficient enough for us to offset the impacts of LMP price movements beyond a small volume. As a consequence, volatility in local market premiums can have a significant impact on our results of operations and cash flows.
We elect to apply hedge accounting to better match the recognition of gains or losses on certain derivative instruments with the recognition of the underlying exposure being hedged in the statement of operations. For undesignated metal derivatives, there are timing differences between the recognition of unrealized gains or losses on the derivatives and the recognition of the underlying exposure in the statement of operations. The recognition of unrealized gains and losses on undesignated metal derivative positions typically precedes inventory cost recognition, customer delivery and revenue recognition. The timing difference between the recognition of unrealized gains and losses on undesignated metal derivatives and cost or revenue recognition impacts "Income before income tax provision" and "Net income." Gains and losses on metal derivative contracts are not recognized in "Segment income" until realized.

28


Foreign Currency and Related Hedging Activities
We operate a global business and conduct business in various currencies around the world. We have exposure to foreign currency risk as fluctuations in foreign exchange rates impact our operating results as we translate the operating results from various functional currencies into our U.S. dollar reporting currency at current average rates. We also record foreign exchange remeasurement gains and losses when business transactions are denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of that operation. Global economic uncertainty is contributing to higher levels of volatility among the currency pairs in which we conduct business. The following table presents the exchange rates as of the end of each period and the average of the month-end exchange rates for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018:
 Exchange Rate as of
Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
Average Exchange Rate
Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
 202020192018202020192018
Euro per U.S. dollar0.911  0.890  0.813  0.901  0.866  0.847  
Brazilian real per U.S. dollar5.199  3.897  3.324  4.168  3.809  3.231  
South Korean won per U.S. dollar1,223  1,138  1,067  1,186  1,114  1,106  
Canadian dollar per U.S. dollar1.425  1.336  1.289  1.333  1.314  1.283  
Swiss franc per euro1.061  1.118  1.178  1.095  1.142  1.139  
Exchange rate movements have an impact on our operating results. In Europe, where we have predominantly local currency selling prices and operating costs, we benefit as the euro strengthens, but are adversely affected as the euro weakens. For our Swiss operations, where operating costs are incurred primarily in the Swiss franc and a large portion of revenues are denominated in the euro, we benefit as the Swiss franc weakens but are adversely affected as the franc strengthens. In South Korea, where we have local currency operating costs and U.S. dollar denominated selling prices for exports, we benefit as the South Korean won weakens but are adversely affected as the won strengthens. In Brazil, where we have predominately U.S. dollar selling prices and local currency manufacturing costs, we benefit as the Brazilian real weakens, but are adversely affected as the real strengthens. We use foreign exchange forward contracts and cross-currency swaps to manage our exposure arising from recorded assets and liabilities, firm commitments, and forecasted cash flows denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of certain operations, which include capital expenditures and net investment in foreign subsidiaries.
See Segment Review below for the impact of foreign currency on each of our segments.



29


Results of Operations
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2020 Compared with the Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2019
"Net sales" were $11,217 million, a decrease of 9%, driven by a 24% decrease in average local market premiums and a 14% decrease in average LME aluminum prices.
"Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)" was $9,231 million, a decrease of 11%, also related to lower average base aluminum prices. Total metal input costs included in "Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)" decreased $1,098 million.
Both "Net sales" and "Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)" are impacted by the timing of fluctuations in local market premiums and LME base aluminum prices, which resulted in $38 million of unfavorable metal price lag compared to $4 million of unfavorable metal price lag in the prior period.
"Income before income tax provision" was $598 million compared to $636 million. The following items also affected "Income before income tax provision:"
"Loss on extinguishment of debt" increased $71 million due to the refinancing of Novelis Corporation's 6.25% Senior Notes due 2024. See Note 12 – Debt;
"Restructuring and impairment, net" increased $41 million related to primarily due to the closure of certain non-core operations in Europe. See Note 3 – Restructuring and Impairment;
"Business acquisition and other integration related costs" increased $30 million in the current year primarily related to professional fees associated with Aleris acquisition; and
"Interest expense and amortization of debt issuance costs" decreased $20 million primarily due to capitalization of interest on our expansion projects as well as decreased interest rates.
We recognized $178 million of "Income tax provision," which resulted in an effective tax rate of 30%. This rate is due to the results of operations, including changes in valuation allowances, the favorable impact of Brazilian real devaluation, and changes in tax credits (as defined in Note 20 – Income Taxes). We recognized $202 million in the prior period, which resulted in an effective tax rate of 32%. This rate was due tax losses in jurisdictions where we believed it more likely than not that we would not be able to utilize those losses and therefore have a valuation allowance recorded and income taxed at tax rates that differ from the 25% Canadian tax rate, including withholding taxes.
"Net income attributable to our common shareholder" was $420 million compared to $434 million primarily as a result of the factors discussed above.




30


Segment Review
Due in part to the regional nature of supply and demand of aluminum rolled products and in order to best serve our customers, we manage our activities on the basis of geographical regions and are organized under four operating segments: North America, Europe, Asia, and South America.
The tables below illustrate selected segment financial information (in millions, except shipments which are in kt). For additional financial information related to our operating segments including the reconciliation of "Net income attributable to our common shareholder" to "Segment income," see Note 22 – Segment, Geographical Area, Major Customer and Major Supplier Information. In order to reconcile the financial information for the segments shown in the tables below to the relevant U.S. GAAP-based measures, "Eliminations and other" must adjust for proportional consolidation of each line item for our Logan affiliate because we consolidate 100% of the Logan joint venture for U.S. GAAP. However, we manage our Logan affiliate on a proportionately consolidated basis and eliminate intersegment shipments (in kt).
 
Selected Operating Results
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2020
North AmericaEuropeAsiaSouth AmericaEliminations and otherTotal
Net sales$4,118  $3,095  $1,969  $1,904  $131  $11,217  
Shipments
Rolled products - third party1,111  892  711  559  —  3,273  
Rolled products - intersegment—  31   15  (53) —  
Total rolled products1,111  923  718  574  (53) 3,273  
Non-rolled products44  17   101  (12) 156  
Total shipments1,155  940  724  675  (65) 3,429  
 
Selected Operating Results
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2019
North AmericaEuropeAsiaSouth AmericaEliminations and otherTotal
Net sales$4,581  $3,376  $2,190  $2,091  $88  $12,326  
Shipments
Rolled products - third party1,142  896  710  526  —  3,274  
Rolled products - intersegment—  22  13  11  (46) —  
Total rolled products1,142  918  723  537  (46) 3,274  
Non-rolled products 23   126  (18) 145  
Total shipments1,150  941  729  663  (64) 3,419  
 

        






31


The following table reconciles changes in "Segment income" for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019 to the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020 (in millions).
Changes in Segment income
North AmericaEuropeAsiaSouth America
Eliminations and other(1)
Total
Segment income - Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2019
$552  $226  $196  $394  $—  $1,368  
Volume(42)  (4) 39  (3) (4) 
Conversion premium and product mix48   19   (10) 64  
Conversion costs28  10   (42) 12  10  
Foreign exchange (6)  18  —  17  
Selling, general & administrative and research & development costs(2)
(6)  (5)  (3) (8) 
Other changes   —    25  
Segment income - Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2020
$590  $246  $210  $421  $ $1,472  
 _________________________
(1)The recognition of segment income by a region on an intersegment shipment could occur in a period prior to the recognition of segment income on a consolidated basis, depending on the timing of when the inventory is sold to the third party customer. The "Eliminations and other" column adjusts regional segment income for intersegment shipments that occur in a period prior to recognition of segment income on a consolidated basis. The "Eliminations and other" column also reflects adjustments for changes in regional volume, conversion premium and product mix, and conversion costs related to intersegment shipments for consolidation. "Eliminations and other" must adjust for proportional consolidation of each line item for our Logan affiliate because we consolidate 100% of the Logan joint venture for U.S. GAAP, but we manage our Logan affiliate on a proportionately consolidated basis.
(2)"Selling, general & administrative and research & development costs" include costs incurred directly by each segment and all corporate related costs.
North America
"Net sales" decreased $463 million, or 10%, driven by a decrease in average base aluminum prices along with a decrease in specialty shipments, partially offset by higher can shipments.
"Segment income" was $590 million, an increase of 7%, primarily due to favorable price and product mix and favorable operating costs, partially offset by decreased shipments.
Europe
"Net sales" decreased $281 million, or 8%, driven primarily by a decrease in average base aluminum prices along with a decrease in can and automotive shipments, partially offset by higher specialty shipments.
“Segment income” was $246 million, an increase of 9%, primarily due to favorable metal and other operating costs, favorable price and product mix, and increased shipments.
Asia
"Net sales" decreased $221 million, or 10%, driven by a decrease in average base aluminum prices along with a decrease in specialty shipments, partially offset by increased can shipments.
"Segment income" was $210 million, an increase of 7%, primarily due to portfolio optimization efforts resulting in favorable product mix.
South America
"Net sales" decreased $187 million, or 9%, driven by a decrease in average base aluminum prices, partially offset by higher can shipments.
"Segment income" was $421 million, an increase of 7%, primarily due to increased shipments, favorable foreign exchange, and tax recoveries, partially offset by cost inflation and less favorable recycling benefits.
32


Results of Operations
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2019 Compared with the Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2018
"Net Sales" were $12,326 million, an increase of 8%, driven by a 40% increase in average local market premiums and a 3% increase in flat rolled product shipments.
"Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)" was $10,422 million, an increase of 7%, also related to higher average local market premiums and increases in flat rolled product shipments. Total metal input costs included in "Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)" increased $522 million.
"Income before income tax provision" was $636 million compared to $855 million. The following items also affected "Income before income provision:"
A "Gain on sale of a business, net" in the prior year of $318 million, related to the sale of shares of UAL to Kobe and the deconsolidation of the remaining assets to form the equity method investment in the prior year;
An increase in "Selling, general and administrative expenses" of $36 million primarily related to increases in employment related costs, factoring expenses and other business and professional fees;
"Business acquisition and other integration related costs" of $33 million in the current year related to costs associated with our pending acquisition of Aleris;
"Restructuring and impairment, net" decreased $32 million related to the closure of certain non-core operations in Europe during the prior fiscal year; and
"Interest expense and amortization of debt issuance costs" increased by $13 million primarily due to increases in LIBOR and increased average borrowings.
We recognized $202 million of tax expense, which resulted in an effective tax rate of 32%. This rate is due to tax losses in jurisdictions where we believe it more likely than not that we will not be able to utilize those losses and therefore have a valuation allowance recorded and income taxed at tax rates that differ from the 25% Canadian tax rate, including withholding taxes. We recognized $233 million in the prior period, which resulted in an effective tax rate of 27%. This rate was due to a $77 million expense resulting from the "Gain on sale of a business, net" and losses in jurisdictions where we believe it more likely than not that we will not be able to utilize those losses and therefore have a valuation allowance recorded, offset by a non-cash income tax benefit of $19 million for the remeasurement of deferred tax assets and liabilities in accordance with the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
"Net income attributable to our common shareholder" was $434 million compared to $635 million primarily as a result of the factors discussed above.

33


Segment Review
Due in part to the regional nature of supply and demand of aluminum rolled products and in order to best serve our customers, we manage our activities on the basis of geographical regions and are organized under four operating segments: North America, Europe, Asia, and South America.
The tables below illustrate selected segment financial information (in millions, except shipments which are in kt). For additional financial information related to our operating segments including the reconciliation of "Net income attributable to our common shareholder" to "Segment income," see Note 22 – Segment, Geographical Area, Major Customer and Major Supplier Information. In order to reconcile the financial information for the segments shown in the tables below to the relevant U.S. GAAP-based measures, "Eliminations and other" must adjust for proportional consolidation of each line item for our Logan affiliate because we consolidate 100% of the Logan joint venture for U.S. GAAP, but we manage our Logan affiliate on a proportionately consolidated basis, and eliminate intersegment shipments (in kt).
 
Selected Operating Results
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2019
North AmericaEuropeAsiaSouth AmericaEliminations and otherTotal
Net sales$4,581  $3,376  $2,190  $2,091  $88  $12,326  
Shipments
Rolled products - third party1,142  896  710  526  —  3,274  
Rolled products - intersegment—  22  13  11  (46) —  
Total rolled products1,142  918  723  537  (46) 3,274  
Non-rolled products 23   126  (18) 145  
Total shipments1,150  941  729  663  (64) 3,419  
 
Selected Operating Results
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2018
North AmericaEuropeAsiaSouth AmericaEliminations and otherTotal
Net sales$3,951  $3,447  $2,110  $1,931  $23  $11,462  
Shipments
Rolled products - third party1,083  914  696  495  —  3,188  
Rolled products - intersegment 16  15  28  (65) —  
Total rolled products1,089  930  711  523  (65) 3,188  
Non-rolled products   130  (2) 145  
Total shipments1,090  938  719  653  (67) 3,333  
 

        






34


The following table reconciles changes in "Segment income" for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2018 to the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019 (in millions).
Changes in Segment incomeNorth AmericaEuropeAsiaSouth America
Eliminations and other(1)
Total
Segment income - Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2018
$474  $219  $167  $363  $(8) $1,215  
Volume59  (16)  15  22  88  
Conversion premium and product mix42  (33) 10   (12)  
Conversion costs(9) 68  31  17  (9) 98  
Foreign exchange (1) (15)  —  (10) 
Selling, general & administrative and research & development costs(2)
(16) (9) (6) (12) 10  (33) 
Other changes —  (2)   (3)  
Segment income - Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2019
$552  $226  $196  $394  $—  $1,368  
 _________________________
(1)The recognition of segment income by a region on an intersegment shipment could occur in a period prior to the recognition of segment income on a consolidated basis, depending on the timing of when the inventory is sold to the third party customer. The "Eliminations and other" column adjusts regional segment income for intersegment shipments that occur in a period prior to recognition of segment income on a consolidated basis. The "Eliminations and other" column also reflects adjustments for changes in regional volume, conversion premium and product mix, and conversion costs related to intersegment shipments for consolidation. "Eliminations and other" must adjust for proportional consolidation of each line item for our Logan affiliate because we consolidate 100% of the Logan joint venture for U.S. GAAP, but we manage our Logan affiliate on a proportionately consolidated basis.
(2)"Selling, general & administrative costs and research & development costs" include costs incurred directly by each segment and all corporate related costs.
North America
"Net sales" increased $630 million, or 16%, primarily due to higher can and automotive shipments.
"Segment income" was $552 million, an increase of 16%, primarily due to higher volumes, favorable pricing and product mix coupled with favorable metal costs and scrap spreads partially offset by increased selling, general and administrative expenses and operating costs.
Europe
"Net sales" decreased $71 million, or 2%, primarily due to lower automotive and specialty shipments, partially offset by higher can shipments.
"Segment income" was $226 million, an increase of 3%, primarily due to favorable metal mix and operating efficiencies partially offset by unfavorable can and automotive pricing.
Asia
"Net sales" increased $80 million, or 4%, primarily due to higher can shipments partially offset by lower specialty shipments.
"Segment income" was $196 million, an increase of 17%, primarily due to favorable metal mix and scrap spreads, favorable product mix and higher volumes partially offset by unfavorable foreign currency impacts.
South America
"Net sales" increased $160 million, or 8%, due to higher can shipments partially offset by lower specialty shipments and lower pricing.
"Segment income" was $394 million, an increase of 9%, primarily due to favorable metal mix and scrap spreads coupled with higher volume partially offset by increased selling, general and administrative expenses.

        
35


Liquidity and Capital Resources
Our primary liquidity sources are cash flows from operations, working capital management, cash and liquidity under our debt agreements. Our recent business investments are being funded through cash flows generated by our operations and a combination of local financing and our senior secured credit facilities. We expect to be able to fund our continued expansions, service our debt obligations, and provide sufficient liquidity to operate our business through one or more of the following: the generation of operating cash flows, working capital management, our existing debt facilities (including refinancing) and new debt issuances, as necessary.
In fiscal 2018 and fiscal 2019, we announced plans to expand our production footprint with investments in automotive finishing capacity in Guthrie, Kentucky (United States) and Changzhou, China, respectively. In fiscal 2019, we announced plans to expand our rolling, casting and recycling capacity in Pindamonhangaba, Brazil. Further, we completed the acquisition of operating assets that we historically leased at our Sierre, Switzerland rolling facility from Constellium for €197.5 million (approximately $231 million).
Also in fiscal 2019, we entered into an agreement to acquire Aleris, a global supplier of rolled aluminum products. We have obtained committed financing of up to $1.875 billion in connection with the acquisition, which closed on April 14, 2020. See Note 24 – Subsequent Events for additional information.
Because of the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is uncertainty surrounding the potential impact on our results of operations and cash flows. We are proactively taking steps to increase available cash on hand including, but not limited to, our previously announced borrowing of $555 million under our ABL Revolver in March 2020 as a precautionary measure to increase our cash position and preserve financial flexibility.
Non-Guarantor Information
As of March 31, 2020, the Company’s subsidiaries that are not guarantors represented the following approximate percentages of (a) net sales, (b) Adjusted EBITDA (segment income), and (c) total assets of the Company, on a consolidated basis (including intercompany balances):
Item DescriptionRatio
Consolidated net sales represented by net sales to third parties by non-guarantor subsidiaries (for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020)
21 %
Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA represented by the non-guarantor subsidiaries (for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020)
13 %
Consolidated assets are owned by non-guarantor subsidiaries (as of March 31, 2020)
15 %
In addition, for the years ended March 31, 2020 and March 31, 2019, the Company’s subsidiaries that are not guarantors had net sales of $2.7 billion and $2.9 billion, respectively, and, as of March 31, 2020, those subsidiaries had assets of $2.2 billion and debt and other liabilities of $1.4 billion (including inter-company balances).
Available Liquidity
Our available liquidity as of March 31, 2020 and 2019 is as follows: 
March 31,
in millions20202019
Cash and cash equivalents$2,392  $950  
Availability under committed credit facilities(1)
186  897  
Total available liquidity$2,578  $1,847  
_________________________
(1)Our availability under committed credit facilities does not include the committed financing for Aleris.
The increase in total available liquidity is primarily attributable to positive free cash flow of $384 million combined with the refinancing of our 6.25% Senior Notes, due August 2024 with the issuance of our 4.75% Senior Notes, due January 2030, resulting in a total increase of principal of $350 million. See Note 12 – Debt for more details on our Senior Notes as well as our availability under committed credit facilities and committed financing relating to the Aleris acquisition.
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The "Cash and cash equivalents" balance above includes cash held in foreign countries in which we operate. As of March 31, 2020, we held $2 million of "Cash and cash equivalents" in Canada, in which we are incorporated, with the rest held in other countries in which we operate. As of March 31, 2020, we held $2.1 billion of cash in jurisdictions for which we have asserted that earnings are permanently reinvested and we plan to continue to fund operations and local expansions with cash held in those jurisdictions. Cash held outside of Canada is free from significant restrictions that would prevent the cash from being accessed to meet the Company's liquidity needs including, if necessary, to fund operations and service debt obligations in Canada. Upon the repatriation of any earnings to Canada, in the form of dividends or otherwise, we could be subject to Canadian income taxes (subject to adjustment for foreign taxes paid and the utilization of the large cumulative net operating losses we have in Canada) and withholding taxes payable to the various foreign jurisdictions. As of March 31, 2020, we do not believe adverse tax consequences exist that restrict our use of "Cash and cash equivalents" in a material manner.
We use derivative contracts to manage risk as well as liquidity. Under our terms of credit with counterparties to our derivative contracts, we do not have any material margin call exposure. No material amounts have been posted by Novelis nor do we hold any material amounts of margin posted by our counterparties. We settle derivative contracts in advance of billing on the underlying physical inventory and collecting payment from our customers, which temporarily impacts our liquidity position. The lag between derivative settlement and customer collection typically ranges from 30 to 90 days.
Free Cash Flow
Refer to "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" for our definition of Free Cash Flow.
The following table shows the "Free cash flow" for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, the change between periods, as well as the ending balances of cash and cash equivalents.
  Change
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
2020
versus
2019
2019
versus
2018
in millions202020192018
Net cash provided by operating activities
$962  $728  $573  $234  $155  
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities(575) (557) 96  (18) (653) 
Plus: Cash used in the acquisition of assets under a capital lease(1)
—  239  —  (239) 239  
Less: Proceeds from sales of assets and business, net of transactions fees, cash income taxes and hedging(2)
(3) (2) (263) (1) 261  
Free cash flow $384  $408  $406  $(24) $ 
Ending cash and cash equivalents$2,392  $950  $920  $1,442  $30  
_________________________
(1)This line item includes $239 million of outflows related to the acquisition of operating assets that we historically leased at our Sierre, Switzerland rolling facility during the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019. The impact is recognized as "Acquisition of assets under a capital lease."
(2)This line item includes the proceeds from the sale of shares in Ulsan Aluminum Ltd., to Kobe during the fiscal year ended March 31, 2018 in the amount of $314 million, net of $42 million and $11 million, in cash taxes and transaction fees paid, respectively.
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Operating Activities
The increase in net cash provided by operating activities was primarily related to higher "Segment income." The following summarizes changes in working capital accounts.
Change
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
2020
versus
2019
2019
versus
2018
in millions202020192018
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities due to changes in working capital:
Accounts receivable$304  $(71) $(415) $375  $344  
Inventories23  32  (151) (9) 183  
Accounts payable(182) (74) 336  (108) (410) 
Other current assets and liabilities(40) 31  16  (71) 15  
Net change in working capital$105  $(82) $(214) $187  $132  
Working capital improvements in the current period were primarily due to favorable changes in accounts receivable due to timing of sales and collections, partially offset by lower base aluminum prices as well as the timing of cash outflows related to accounts payable and current assets and liabilities.
In the prior periods, working capital improvements were primarily due to favorable changes in inventories due to increased sales as well as favorable changes in other current assets and liabilities. The lower quantities of inventory on hand were the result of increased shipments due to customer demand. These factors were offset by the timing of cash outflows related to accounts payable and lower base aluminum prices.
Investing Activities
The following table presents information regarding our "Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities." 
  Change
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
2020
versus
2019
2019
versus
2018
in millions202020192018
Capital expenditures$(599) $(351) $(226) $(248) $(125) 
Acquisition of assets under a capital lease—  (239) —  239  (239) 
Proceeds from sales of assets, third party, net of transaction fees and hedging    —  
Proceeds from the sale of a business—  —  314  —  (314) 
Proceeds from investment in and advances to non-consolidated affiliates, net 12  16  (9) (4) 
Proceeds (outflows) from settlement of derivative instruments, net  (23) (2) 30  
Other13  12  13   (1) 
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities$(575) $(557) $96  $(18) $(653) 
For the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020, "Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities" was primarily attributable to increased "Capital expenditures" related to strategic investments. This was partially offset by the prior period acquisition of operating assets that we historically leased at our Sierre, Switzerland rolling facility recognized as "Acquisition of assets under a capital lease."
In the prior year, the change in "Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities" was primarily attributable to increased "Capital expenditures" related to strategic investments and the acquisition of operating assets that we historically leased at our Sierre, Switzerland rolling facility recognized as "Acquisition of assets under a capital lease." Additionally, in fiscal 2018, we received "Proceeds from the sale of a business" in the amount of $314 million due to the sale of shares in UAL.
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Financing Activities
The following table presents information regarding our "Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities." 
  Change
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
2020
versus
2019
2019
versus
2018
in millions202020192018
Proceeds from issuance of long-term and short-term borrowings$1,696  $—  $—  $1,696  $—  
Principal payments of long-term and short-term borrowings(1,225) (112) (174) (1,113) 62  
Revolving credit facilities and other, net633  (2) (211) 635  209  
Debt issuance costs(40) (4) (5) (36)  
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities$1,064  $(118) $(390) $1,182  $272  
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2020
During the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020, there were $1,696 million of issuances of long-term borrowings, primarily related to the issuance of $1,600 million in senior notes. We made principal repayments of $1,225, primarily related to the refinancing of our 2024 Senior Notes, along with $18 million of payments on our Term Loan Facility. Additionally, the net cash proceeds from our revolving credit facilities is related to draw downs of $555 million on our ABL Revolver and $98 million on our Korea credit facility. We incurred $40 million of debt issuance costs.
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2019
During the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019, there were no issuances of long-term borrowings. We made principal repayments of $90 million in Korean long-term debt, $18 million on our Term Loan Facility, $3 million on capital leases, and $1 million in other principal repayments. We incurred $4 million in debt issuance costs.
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2018
During the fiscal year ended March 31, 2018, there were no issuances of long-term borrowings. We made principal repayments of $97 million in Korean long-term debt, $50 million on short-term loans in Brazil, $18 million on our Term Loan Facility, $8 million on capital leases, and $1 million in other principal repayments. The net cash repayments from our credit facilities balance is related to payments of $185 million on our ABL Revolver and $26 million on our China credit facility.




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OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
In accordance with SEC rules, the following qualify as off-balance sheet arrangements:
any obligation under certain derivative instruments;
any obligation under certain guarantees or contracts;
a retained or contingent interest in assets transferred to an unconsolidated entity or similar entity or similar arrangement that serves as credit, liquidity or market risk support to that entity for such assets; and
any obligation under a material variable interest held by the registrant in an unconsolidated entity that provides financing, liquidity, market risk or credit risk support to the registrant, or engages in leasing, hedging or research and development services with the registrant.
The following discussion addresses the applicable off-balance sheet items for our Company.
Derivative Instruments
See Note 16 – Financial Instruments and Commodity Contracts to our accompanying consolidated financial statements for a full description of derivative instruments.
Guarantees of Indebtedness
We have issued guarantees on behalf of certain of our subsidiaries. The indebtedness guaranteed is for trade accounts payable to third parties and capital expenditures. Some of the guarantees have annual terms while others have no expiration and have termination notice requirements. Neither we nor any of our subsidiaries holds any assets of any third parties as collateral to offset the potential settlement of these guarantees. Since we consolidate wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries in our consolidated financial statements, all liabilities associated with trade payables and short-term debt facilities for these entities are already included in our consolidated balance sheets.
Factoring of Trade Receivables
See Note 4 – Accounts Receivable for a summary of disclosures of factored financial amounts.
Other
As part of our ongoing business, we do not participate in transactions that generate relationships with unconsolidated entities or financial partnerships, such as entities often referred to as special purpose entities (SPEs), which would have been established for the purpose of facilitating off-balance sheet arrangements or other contractually narrow or limited purposes. As of March 31, 2020 and 2019, we were not involved in any unconsolidated SPE transactions.

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CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS
We have future obligations under various contracts relating to debt and interest payments, capital and operating leases, long-term purchase obligations, and postretirement benefit plans. The following table presents our estimated future payments under contractual obligations that exist as of March 31, 2020, based on undiscounted amounts. The future cash flow commitments we may have related to derivative contracts are excluded from our contractual obligations table as these are fair value measurements determined at an interim date within the contractual term of the arrangement and, accordingly, do not represent the ultimate contractual obligation (which could ultimately become a receivable). As a result, the timing and amount of the ultimate future cash flows related to our derivative contracts, including the $229 million of derivative liabilities recorded on our balance sheet as of March 31, 2020, are uncertain. In addition, stock compensation is excluded from the table below as these are fair value measurements determined at an interim date and is not considered a contractual obligation. Furthermore, due to the difficulty in determining the timing of settlements, the table excludes $27 million of uncertain tax positions. See Note 20 – Income Taxes to our accompanying consolidated financial statements.
in millionsLess Than 1 Year1-3 Years3-5 YearsMore Than 5 YearsTotal
Debt(1)
$195  $1,727  $565  $3,122  $5,609  
Interest on long-term debt(2)
209  377  328  489  1,403  
Finance leases(3)
—  —  —    
Operating leases(4)
28  37  24  19  108  
Purchase obligations(5)
3,305  3,882  1,157  620  8,964  
Unfunded pension plan benefits(6)
12  22  22  60  116  
Other post-employment benefits(6)
 16  18  55  96  
Funded pension plans(6)
68  151  166  470  855  
Total$3,824  $6,212  $2,280  $4,836  $17,152  
_________________________
(1)Includes only principal payments on our Senior Notes, Term Loans, revolving credit facilities and notes payable to banks and others. These amounts exclude payments under finance lease obligations.
(2)Interest on our fixed rate debt is estimated using the stated interest rate. Interest on our variable-rate debt is estimated using the rate in effect as of March 31, 2020. Actual future interest payments may differ from these amounts based on changes in floating interest rates or other factors or events. Excluded from these amounts are interest related to capital lease obligations, the amortization of debt issuance and other costs related to indebtedness.
(3)Includes both principal and interest components of future minimum finance lease payments. Excluded from these amounts are insurance, taxes and maintenance associated with the property.
(4)Includes the minimum lease payments for non-cancelable leases for property and equipment used in our operations. We do not have any operating leases with contingent rents. Excluded from these amounts are insurance, taxes and maintenance associated with the properties and equipment.
(5)Includes agreements to purchase goods (including raw materials, and capital expenditures) and services that are enforceable and legally binding on us, and that specify all significant terms. Some of our raw material purchase contracts have minimum annual volume requirements. In these cases, we estimate our future purchase obligations using annual minimum volumes and costs per unit that are in effect as of March 31, 2020. Due to volatility in the cost of our raw materials, actual amounts paid in the future may differ from these amounts. Excluded from these amounts are the impact of any derivative instruments and any early contract termination fees, such as those typically present in energy contracts.
(6)Obligations for postretirement benefit plans are estimated based on actuarial estimates using benefit assumptions for, among other factors, discount rates, rates of compensation increases and health care cost trends. Payments for pension plan benefits and other post-employment benefits are estimated through 2030.
RETURN OF CAPITAL
Payments to our shareholder are at the discretion of the board of directors and will depend on, among other things, our financial resources, cash flows generated by our business, our cash requirements, restrictions under the instruments governing our indebtedness, being in compliance with the appropriate indentures and covenants under the instruments that govern our indebtedness and other relevant factors.
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ENVIRONMENT, HEALTH AND SAFETY
We strive to be a leader in environment, health and safety (EHS) standards. Our EHS system is aligned with ISO 14001, an international environmental management standard, and OHSAS 18001 or ISO 45001, international occupational health and safety management standards. As of March 31, 2020 and 2019, 23 of our facilities were OHSAS 18001 or ISO 45001 certified. As of March 31, 2020 and 2019, 24 of our facilities were ISO 14001 certified. In addition as of March 31, 2020 and 2019, 23 of our facilities are certified to one of the following quality standards: ISO 9001, TS 16949, IATF 16949.
Our expenditures for environmental protection (including estimated and probable environmental remediation costs as well as general environmental protection costs at our facilities) and the betterment of working conditions in our facilities were $15 million during the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020, of which $12 million was expensed and $3 million capitalized. We expect these expenditures will be approximately $13 million in the fiscal year ending March 31, 2021, of which we estimate $9 million will be expensed and $4 million capitalized. Generally, expenses for environmental protection are recorded in "Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)." However, significant remediation costs that are not associated with on-going operations are recorded in "Restructuring and impairment, net."
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
Our discussion and analysis of our results of operations, liquidity and capital resources are based on our consolidated financial statements which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (U.S. GAAP). In connection with the preparation of our consolidated financial statements, we are required to make assumptions and estimates about future events, and apply judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue, expenses, and the related disclosures. We base our assumptions, estimates and judgments on historical experience, current trends and other factors we believe to be relevant at the time we prepare our consolidated financial statements. On a regular basis, we review the accounting policies, assumptions, estimates and judgments to ensure that our consolidated financial statements are presented fairly and in accordance with U.S. GAAP. However, because future events and their effects cannot be determined with certainty, actual results could differ from our assumptions and estimates, and such differences could be material.
Our significant accounting policies are discussed in Note 1 – Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies to our accompanying consolidated financial statements. We believe the following accounting policies are the most critical to aid in fully understanding and evaluating our reported financial results, as they require management to make difficult, subjective or complex judgments, and to make estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain. Although management believes that the estimates and judgments discussed herein are reasonable, actual results could differ, which could result in gains or losses that could be material. We have reviewed these critical accounting policies and related disclosures with the Audit Committee of our board of directors.
Derivative Financial Instruments
We hold derivatives for risk management purposes and not for trading. We use derivatives to mitigate uncertainty and volatility caused by underlying exposures to metal prices, foreign exchange rates, interest rates, and energy prices. The fair values of all derivative instruments are recognized as assets or liabilities at the balance sheet date and are reported gross.
The majority of our derivative contracts are valued using industry-standard models that use observable market inputs as their basis, such as time value, forward interest rates, volatility factors, and current (spot) and forward market prices for commodity and foreign exchange rates. See Note 16 – Financial Instruments and Commodity Contracts and Note 18 – Fair Value Measurements to our accompanying consolidated financial statements for discussion on fair value of derivative instruments.
We may be exposed to losses in the future if the counterparties to our derivative contracts fail to perform. We are satisfied that the risk of such non-performance is remote due to our monitoring of credit exposures. Additionally, we enter into master netting agreements with contractual provisions that allow for netting of counterparty positions in case of default, and we do not face credit contingent provisions that would result in the posting of collateral.
For derivatives designated as fair value hedges, we assess hedge effectiveness by formally evaluating the high correlation of changes in the fair value of the hedged item and the derivative hedging instrument. The changes in the fair values of the underlying hedged items are reported in other current and noncurrent assets and liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. Changes in the fair values of these derivatives and underlying hedged items generally offset, and the entire change in the fair value of derivatives is recorded in the statement of operations line item consistent with the underlying hedged item.
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For derivatives designated as cash flow hedges or net investment hedges, we assess hedge effectiveness by formally evaluating the high correlation of the expected future cash flows of the hedged item and the derivative hedging instrument. The entire change in the fair value of the hedging instrument included in the assessment of hedge effectiveness is included in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) and reclassified to earnings in the period in which earnings are impacted by the hedged items or in the period that the transaction becomes probable of not occurring. Gains or losses representing reclassifications of OCI to earnings are recognized in the same line item that is impacted by the underlying exposure. We exclude the time value component of foreign currency and aluminum price risk hedges when measuring and assessing effectiveness to align our accounting policy with risk management objectives when it is necessary. If at any time during the life of a cash flow hedge relationship we determine that the relationship is no longer effective, the derivative will no longer be designated as a cash flow hedge and future gains or losses on the derivative will be recognized in "Other expenses, net."
For all derivatives designated as hedging relationships, gains or losses representing amounts excluded from effectiveness testing are recognized in "Other expenses, net" in our current period earnings. If no hedging relationship is designated, gains or losses are recognized in "Other expenses, net" in our current period earnings.
Consistent with the cash flows from the underlying risk exposure, we classify cash settlement amounts associated with designated derivatives as part of either operating or investing activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows. If no hedging relationship is designated, we classify cash settlement amounts as part of investing activities in the consolidated statement of cash flows.
Impairment of Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the identifiable net assets of acquired companies. As a result of Hindalco's indirect purchase of Novelis, we estimated fair value of the identifiable net assets using a number of factors, including the application of multiples and discounted cash flow estimates. The carrying value of goodwill for each of our reporting units, which is tested for impairment annually, is as follows:
 
in millions
As of
March 31, 2020
North America$285  
Europe181  
South America141  
$607  
Goodwill is not amortized; instead, it is tested for impairment annually or more frequently if indicators of impairment exist. On an ongoing basis, absent any impairment indicators, we perform our goodwill impairment testing as of March 31 of each fiscal year. We do not aggregate components of operating segments to arrive at our reporting units, and as such our reporting units are the same as our operating segments.
ASC 350, Intangibles - Goodwill (ASC 715) provides an entity the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events or circumstances leads to a determination that it is more likely than not that the estimated fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If an entity elects to perform a qualitative assessment and determines that an impairment is more likely than not, the entity is then required to perform the existing two-step quantitative impairment test, otherwise no further analysis is required. An entity also may elect not to perform the qualitative assessment and, instead, proceed directly to the two-step quantitative impairment test. The ultimate outcome of the goodwill impairment review for a reporting unit should be the same whether an entity chooses to perform the qualitative assessment or proceeds directly to the two-step quantitative impairment test.
For our fiscal year 2020 test, we elected to perform the two-step quantitative impairment test, where step one compares the fair value of each reporting unit to its carrying amount, and if step one indicates that the carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds the fair value, step two is performed to measure the amount of impairment, if any. For purposes of our step one analysis, our estimate of fair value for each reporting unit as of the testing date is based on a weighted average of the value indication from income and market approach. The approach to determining fair value for all reporting units is consistent given the similarity of our operations in each region.
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Under the income approach, the fair value of each reporting unit is based on the present value of estimated future cash flows. The income approach is dependent on a number of significant management assumptions including sales volumes and prices, costs to produce, capital spending, working capital changes and the discount rate. We estimate future cash flows for each of our reporting units based on our projections for the respective reporting unit. These projected cash flows are discounted to the present value using a weighted average cost of capital (discount rate). The discount rate is commensurate with the risk inherent in the projected cash flows and reflects the rate of return required by an investor in the current economic conditions. For our annual impairment test, we used a discount rate of 8% for all reporting units. An increase or decrease of 0.25% in the discount rate would have impacted the estimated fair value of each reporting unit by approximately $100-$340 million, depending on the relative size of the reporting unit. Additionally, an increase or decrease of 0.25% in the terminal year growth rate assumption would have impacted the estimated fair value of each reporting unit by approximately $80-$280 million, depending on the relative size of the reporting unit. The projections are based on both past performance and the expectations of future performance and assumptions used in our current operating plan. We use specific revenue growth assumptions for each reporting unit based on history and economic conditions, and the terminal year revenue growth assumptions were approximately 2.25%.
Under the market approach, the fair value of each reporting unit is determined based upon comparisons to public companies engaged in similar businesses. The market approach is dependent on a number of significant assumptions including selection of multiples and control premium.
As a result of our annual goodwill impairment test for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020, no goodwill impairment was identified. The fair values of the reporting units exceeded their respective carrying amounts as of the last day of March in fiscal 2020 by 146% for North America, by 51% for Europe and by 272% for South America.
Equity Investments
We invest in certain joint ventures and consortiums. We use the equity method to account for our investments in entities that we do not control, but where we have the ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financial policies. We exercise judgment to determine which investments should be accounted for using the equity method and which investments should be consolidated.
As a result of Hindalco's indirect purchase of Novelis, "Investment in and advances to equity method affiliates" was adjusted to reflect fair value as of May 16, 2007 for our Alunorf affiliate. We review these investments for impairment whenever certain indicators are present suggesting that the carrying value of an investment is not recoverable. This analysis requires a significant amount of judgment to identify events or circumstances indicating that an investment may be impaired. Once an impairment indicator is identified, we must determine if an impairment exists, and if so, whether the impairment is other than temporary, in which case the investment would be written down to its estimated fair value.
Impairment of Long Lived Assets and Other Intangible Assets
We assess the recoverability of long-lived assets and finite-lived intangible assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that we may not be able to recover the asset's carrying amount. Such events or circumstances include, but are not limited to, a significant decrease in the fair value of the underlying business or a change in utilization of property and equipment.
We group assets to test for impairment at the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are largely independent of the cash flows of other groups of assets and liabilities. These levels are dependent upon an asset's usage, which may be on an individual asset level or aggregated at a higher level including a region-wide grouping. The metal flow and management of supply within our regions creates an interdependency of the plants within a region on one another to generate cash flows. Accordingly, under normal operating conditions, our assets are grouped on a region-wide basis for impairment testing. Any expected change in usage, retirement, disposal or sale of an individual asset or group of assets below the region level which would generate a separate cash flow stream outside of normal operations could result in grouping assets below the region level for impairment testing.
When evaluating long-lived assets and finite-lived intangible assets for potential impairment, we first compare the carrying value of the asset to the asset's estimated future net cash flows (undiscounted and without interest charges). If the estimated future net cash flows are less than the carrying value of the asset, we calculate and recognize an impairment loss. If we recognize an impairment loss, the carrying amount of the asset is adjusted to fair value based on the discounted estimated future net cash flows and will be its new cost basis. For a depreciable long-lived asset, the new cost basis will be depreciated over the remaining useful life of that asset. For an amortizable intangible asset, the new cost basis will be amortized over the remaining useful life of the asset.
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Our impairment loss calculations require management to apply judgments in estimating future cash flows to determine asset fair values, including forecasting useful lives of the assets and selecting the discount rate that represents the risk inherent in future cash flows. Impairment charges are recorded in "Restructuring and impairment, net" in our consolidated statement of operations. See Note 3 – Restructuring and Impairment for details on asset impairments for the years ended March 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018.
If actual results are not consistent with our assumptions and judgments used in estimating future cash flows and asset fair values, we may be exposed to additional impairment losses that could be material to our results of operations.
Pension and Other Postretirement Plans
We account for our pensions and other postretirement benefits in accordance with ASC 715, Compensation — Retirement Benefits (ASC 715). Liabilities and expense for pension plans and other postretirement benefits are determined using actuarial methodologies and incorporate significant assumptions, including the rate used to discount the future estimated liability, the long-term rate of return on plan assets, and several assumptions related to the employee workforce (compensation increases, health care cost trend rates, expected service period, retirement age, and mortality). These assumptions bear the risk of change as they require significant judgment and they have inherent uncertainties that management may not be able to control.
The actuarial models use an attribution approach that generally spreads the financial impact of changes to the plan and actuarial assumptions over the average remaining service lives of the employees in the plan or average life expectancy. The principle underlying the required attribution approach is that employees render service over their average remaining service lives on a relatively smooth basis and, therefore, the accounting for benefits earned under the pension or non-pension postretirement benefits plans should follow the same relatively smooth pattern. Changes in the liability due to changes in actuarial assumptions such as discount rate, rate of compensation increases and mortality, as well as annual deviations between what was assumed and what was experienced by the plan are treated as actuarial gains or losses. The actuarial gains and losses are initially recorded to "Other comprehensive income (loss)" and are subsequently amortized over periods of 15 years or less.
The most significant assumption used to calculate pension and other postretirement obligations is the discount rate used to determine the present value of benefits. The discount rate is based on spot rate yield curves and individual bond matching models for pension and other postretirement plans in Canada, the United States, United Kingdom, and other euro zone countries, and on published long-term high quality corporate bond indices in other countries with adjustments made to the index rates based on the duration of the plans' obligations for each country, at the end of each fiscal year. This bond matching approach matches the bond yields with the year-to-year cash flow projections from the actuarial valuation to determine a discount rate that more accurately reflects the timing of the expected payments. The weighted average discount rate used to determine the pension benefit obligation was 2.6%, 3.0%, and 3.1%, and other postretirement benefit obligation was 3.4%, 4.0% and 4.0% as of March 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, respectively. The weighted average discount rate used to determine the net periodic benefit cost is the rate used to determine the benefit obligation at the end of the previous fiscal year.
As of March 31, 2020, an increase in the discount rate of 0.5%, assuming inflation remains unchanged, would result in a decrease of $161 million in the pension and other postretirement obligations and in a pre-tax decrease of $17 million in the net periodic benefit cost in the following year. A decrease in the discount rate of 0.5% as of March 31, 2020, assuming inflation remains unchanged, would result in an increase of $180 million in the pension and other postretirement obligations and in a pre-tax increase of $18 million in the net periodic benefit cost in the following year.
The long term expected return on plan assets is based upon historical experience, expected future performance as well as current and projected investment portfolio diversification. The weighted average expected return on plan assets was 5.5% for 2020, 5.2% for 2019, and 5.2% for 2018. The expected return on assets is a long-term assumption whose accuracy can only be measured over a long period based on past experience. A variation in the expected return on assets of 0.5% as of March 31, 2020 would result in a pre-tax variation of approximately $11 million in the net periodic benefit cost in the following year.
Income Taxes
We account for income taxes using the asset and liability method. Under the asset and liability method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the estimated future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. In addition, deferred tax assets are also recorded with respect to net operating losses and other tax attribute carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. Valuation allowances are established when realization of the benefit of deferred tax assets is not deemed to be more likely than not. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.
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We considered all available evidence, both positive and negative, in determining the appropriate amount of the valuation allowance against our deferred tax assets as of March 31, 2020. In evaluating the need for a valuation allowance, we consider all potential sources of taxable income, including income available in carryback periods, future reversals of taxable temporary differences, projections of taxable income, and income from tax planning strategies, as well as any other available and relevant information. Positive evidence includes factors such as a history of profitable operations, projections of future profitability within the carryforward period and potential income from prudent and feasible tax planning strategies. Negative evidence includes items such as cumulative losses, projections of future losses, and carryforward periods that are not long enough to allow for the utilization of the deferred tax asset based on existing projections of income. In certain jurisdictions, deferred tax assets related to loss carryforwards and other temporary differences exist without a valuation allowance where in our judgment the weight of the positive evidence more than offsets the negative evidence.
Upon changes in facts and circumstances, we may conclude that certain deferred tax assets for which no valuation allowance is currently recorded may not be realizable in future periods, resulting in a charge to income. Existing valuation allowances are re-examined under the same standards of positive and negative evidence. If it is determined that it is more likely than not that a deferred tax asset will be realized, the appropriate amount of the valuation allowance, if any, is released, in the period this determination is made.
As of March 31, 2020, the Company concluded that valuation allowances totaling $755 million were required against its deferred tax assets comprised of the following:
$542 million of the valuation allowance relates to loss carryforwards in Canada and certain foreign jurisdictions, $73 million relates to New York tax credit carryforwards, and $56 million relates to tax credit carryforwards in Canada.
$84 million of the valuation allowance relates to other deferred tax assets originating from temporary differences in Canada and certain foreign jurisdictions.
In determining these amounts, the Company considered the reversal of existing temporary differences as a source of taxable income. The ultimate realization of the remaining deferred tax assets is contingent on the Company's ability to generate future taxable income within the carryforward period and within the period in which the temporary differences become deductible. Due to the history of negative earnings in these jurisdictions and future projections of losses, the Company believes it is more likely than not the deferred tax assets will not be realized prior to expiration.
Through March 31, 2020, the Company recognized deferred tax assets related to loss carryforwards and other temporary items of approximately $422 million. The Company determined that existing taxable temporary differences will reverse within the same period and jurisdiction and are of the same character as the deductible temporary items generating sufficient taxable income to support realization of $286 million of these deferred tax assets. Realization of the remaining $136 million of deferred tax assets is dependent on our ability to earn pre-tax income aggregating approximately $571 million in those jurisdictions to realize those deferred tax assets. The realization of our deferred tax assets is not dependent on tax planning strategies.
By their nature, tax laws are often subject to interpretation. Further complicating matters is that in those cases where a tax position is open to interpretation, differences of opinion can result in differing conclusions as to the amount of tax benefits to be recognized under ASC 740, Income Taxes. We utilize a two-step approach for evaluating tax positions. Recognition (Step 1) occurs when we conclude that a tax position, based solely on its technical merits, is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination. Measurement (Step 2) is only addressed if Step 1 has been satisfied. Under Step 2, we measure the tax benefit as the largest amount of benefit, determined on a cumulative probability basis that is more likely than not to be realized upon ultimate settlement. Consequently, the level of evidence and documentation necessary to support a position prior to being given recognition and measurement within the financial statements is a matter of judgment that depends on all available evidence.
On December 22, 2017, the U.S. government enacted comprehensive tax legislation commonly referred to as the U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (the "Act"). The Act made broad and complex changes to the U.S. tax code, including, but not limited to, (1) reducing the U.S. federal corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% effective January 1, 2018 and (2) bonus depreciation that allows for full expensing of qualified property. Simultaneous with the Act, the SEC Staff released Accounting Bulletin No. 118 ("SAB 118"), which allows the use of provisional amounts (reasonable estimates) if the analysis of the impacts of the Act have not been completed when financial statements are issued. During the third quarter of fiscal year 2019, we finalized the computations of the income tax effects of the Act. As such, in accordance with SAB 118, our accounting for the effects of the Act is complete. We did not significantly adjust provisional amounts recorded in the prior fiscal year and the SAB 118 measurement period subsequently ended on December 22, 2018. Although we no longer consider these amounts to be provisional, the determination of the Act’s income tax effects may change following future legislation or further interpretation of the Act based on the publication of recently proposed U.S. Treasury regulations and guidance from the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities.
46


Assessment of Loss Contingencies
We have legal and other contingencies, including environmental liabilities, which could result in significant losses upon the ultimate resolution of such contingencies. Environmental liabilities that are not legal asset retirement obligations are accrued on an undiscounted basis when it is probable that a liability exists for past events.
We have provided for losses in situations where we have concluded that it is probable that a loss has been or will be incurred and the amount of the loss is reasonably estimable. A significant amount of judgment is involved in determining whether a loss is probable and reasonably estimable due to the uncertainty involved in determining the likelihood of future events and estimating the financial statement impact of such events. If further developments or resolution of a contingent matter are not consistent with our assumptions and judgments, we may need to recognize a significant charge in a future period related to an existing contingency.
RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
See Note 1 – Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies to our accompanying consolidated financial statements for a full description of recent accounting pronouncements including the respective expected dates of adoption and expected effects on results of operations and financial condition.
NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
Segment Income
Total "Segment income" presents the sum of the results of our four operating segments on a consolidated basis. We believe that total "Segment income" is an operating performance measure that measures operating results unaffected by differences in capital structures, capital investment cycles and ages of related assets among otherwise comparable companies. In reviewing our corporate operating results, we also believe it is important to review the aggregate consolidated performance of all of our segments on the same basis we review the performance of each of our regions and to draw comparisons between periods based on the same measure of consolidated performance.
Management believes investors’ understanding of our performance is enhanced by including this non-GAAP financial measure as a reasonable basis for comparing our ongoing results of operations. Many investors are interested in understanding the performance of our business by comparing our results from ongoing operations from one period to the next and would ordinarily add back items that are not part of normal day-to-day operations of our business. By providing total "Segment income," together with reconciliations, we believe we are enhancing investors’ understanding of our business and our results of operations, as well as assisting investors in evaluating how well we are executing strategic initiatives.
However, total "Segment income" is not a measurement of financial performance under U.S. GAAP, and our total "Segment income" may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies. Total "Segment income" has important limitations as an analytical tool and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of our results as reported under U.S. GAAP. For example, total "Segment income":
does not reflect the company’s cash expenditures or requirements for capital expenditures or capital commitments;
does not reflect changes in, or cash requirements for, the company’s working capital needs; and
does not reflect any costs related to the current or future replacement of assets being depreciated and amortized.
We also use total "Segment income":
as a measure of operating performance to assist us in comparing our operating performance on a consistent basis because it removes the impact of items not directly resulting from our core operations;
for planning purposes, including the preparation of our internal annual operating budgets and financial projections;
to evaluate the performance and effectiveness of our operational strategies; and
as a basis to calculate incentive compensation payments for our key employees.
Total "Segment income" is equivalent to our Adjusted EBITDA, which we refer to in our earnings announcements and other external presentations to analysts and investors. Please see Note 22 – Segment, Geographical Area, Major Customer and Major Supplier Information for our definition of "Segment income."
47


Free Cash Flow
"Free cash flow" consists of: (a) "net cash provided by (used in) operating activities," (b) plus "net cash provided by (used in) investing activities," (c) plus cash used in the "Acquisition of assets under a capital lease," and (d) less "proceeds from sales of assets, net of transaction fees, cash income taxes and hedging." Management believes "Free cash flow" is relevant to investors as it provides a measure of the cash generated internally that is available for debt service and other value creation opportunities. However, "Free cash flow" does not necessarily represent cash available for discretionary activities, as certain debt service obligations must be funded out of "Free cash flow." Our method of calculating "Free cash flow" may not be consistent with that of other companies.
Effective in the second quarter of fiscal 2019, management clarified the definition of "Free cash flow" (a non-GAAP measure) to exclude the impact of cash outflows related to the "Acquisition of assets under a capital lease." This change further enables users of the financial statements to understand cash generated internally by the Company. This change does not impact the consolidated financial statements or prior periods reported.
48


Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
We are exposed to certain market risks as part of our ongoing business operations, including risks from changes in metal prices (primarily aluminum, copper and local market premiums), energy prices (electricity, natural gas and diesel fuel), foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates that could impact our results of operations and financial condition. We manage our exposure to these and other market risks through regular operating and financing activities and derivative financial instruments. We use derivative financial instruments as risk management tools only, and not for speculative purposes.
By their nature, all derivative financial instruments involve risk, including the credit risk of non-performance by counterparties. All derivative contracts are executed with counterparties that, in our judgment, are creditworthy. Our maximum potential loss may exceed the amount recognized in the accompanying March 31, 2020 consolidated balance sheet.
The decision of whether and when to execute derivative instruments, along with the duration of the instrument, can vary from period to period depending on market conditions and the relative costs of the instruments. The duration is linked to the timing of the underlying exposure, with the connection between the two being regularly monitored.
The market risks we are exposed to as part of our ongoing business operations are materially consistent with our risk exposures in the prior year, as we have not entered into any new material hedging programs.
Commodity Price Risks
We have commodity price risk with respect to purchases of certain raw materials including aluminum, copper, electricity, natural gas and transport fuel.
Metal
A significant amount of our business is conducted under a conversion model, which allows us to pass through increases or decreases in the price of aluminum to our customers. Nearly all of our flat rolled products have a price structure with three components: (i) a base aluminum price quoted off the London Metal Exchange (LME); (ii) a local market premium; and (iii) a "conversion premium" to produce the rolled product which reflects, among other factors, the competitive market conditions for that product. Base aluminum prices are typically driven by macroeconomic factors and global supply and demand for aluminum. The local market premiums tend to vary based on the supply and demand for metal in a particular region and associated transportation costs.
Increases or decreases in the average price of aluminum based on the LME directly impact "Net sales," "Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)," and working capital. The timing of these impacts varies based on contractual arrangements with customers and metal suppliers in each region. These timing impacts are referred to as metal price lag. Metal price lag exists due to: (i) certain customer contracts containing fixed forward price commitments which result in exposure to changes in metal prices for the period of time between when our sales price fixes and the sale actually occurs, and (ii) the period of time between the pricing of our purchases of metal, holding and processing the metal, and the pricing of the sale of finished inventory to our customers.
We use derivative instruments to preserve our conversion margins and manage the timing differences associated with metal price lag related to base aluminum price. We use over-the-counter derivatives indexed to the LME (referred to as our "aluminum derivative contracts") to reduce our exposure to fluctuating metal prices associated with the period of time between the pricing of our purchases of inventory and the pricing of the sale of that inventory to our customers. We also purchase forward LME aluminum contracts simultaneous with our sales contracts with customers that contain fixed metal prices. These LME aluminum forward contracts directly hedge the economic risk of future metal price fluctuations to better match the purchase price of metal with the sales price of metal.
Sensitivities
The following table presents the estimated potential negative effect on the fair values of these derivative instruments as of March 31, 2020, given a 10% change in prices. Direction of the change in price corresponds with the direction that would cause the change in fair value to negatively impact the fair value of these derivative instruments.
$ in millionsChange in PriceChange in Fair Value
Aluminum10 %$(56) 
Copper(10)%$(1) 
49


Energy
We use several sources of energy in the manufacturing and delivery of our aluminum rolled products. For the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020, natural gas and electricity represented approximately 97% of our energy consumption by cost. We also use fuel oil and transport fuel. The majority of energy usage occurs at our casting centers and during the hot rolling of aluminum.
We purchase our natural gas and diesel fuel on the open market, subjecting us to market price fluctuations. We seek to stabilize our future exposure to natural gas and diesel fuel prices through the use of forward purchase contracts.
A portion of our electricity requirements are purchased pursuant to long-term contracts in the local regions in which we operate. A number of our facilities are located in regions with regulated prices, which affords relatively stable costs. In North America, we have entered into an electricity swap to fix a portion of the cost of our electricity requirements.
Fluctuating energy costs worldwide, due to the changes in supply and demand, and international and geopolitical events, expose us to earnings volatility as changes in such costs cannot be immediately recovered under existing contracts and sales agreements, and may only be mitigated in future periods under future pricing arrangements.
Sensitivities
The following table presents the estimated potential negative effect on the fair values of these derivative instruments as of March 31, 2020, given a 10% decline in spot prices for energy contracts. 
$ in millionsChange in PriceChange in Fair Value
Electricity(10)%$(2) 
Natural Gas(10)%$(3) 
Diesel Fuel(10)%$(2) 
Foreign Currency Exchange Risks
Exchange rate movements have an impact on our operating results. In Europe, where we have predominantly local currency selling prices and operating costs, we benefit as the euro strengthens, but are adversely affected as the euro weakens. For our Swiss operations, where operating costs are incurred primarily in the Swiss franc and a large portion of revenues are denominated in the euro, we benefit as the franc weakens but are adversely affected as the franc strengthens. In South Korea, where we have local currency operating costs and U.S. dollar denominated selling prices for exports, we benefit as the won weakens but are adversely affected as the won strengthens. In Brazil, where we have predominately U.S. dollar selling prices and local currency manufacturing costs, we benefit as the real weakens, but are adversely affected as the real strengthens. We use foreign exchange forward contracts and cross-currency swaps to manage our exposure arising from recorded assets and liabilities, firm commitments, and forecasted cash flows denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of certain operations, which include capital expenditures and net investment in foreign subsidiaries.
It is our policy to minimize exposures from non-functional currency denominated transactions within each of our operating segments. We use foreign exchange forward contracts, options and cross-currency swaps to manage exposure arising from recorded assets and liabilities, firm commitments, and forecasted cash flows denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of certain operations, which include forecasted net sales, forecasted purchase commitments, capital expenditures and net investment in foreign subsidiaries. Our most significant non-U.S. dollar functional currency operations have the euro and the Korean won as their functional currencies, respectively. Our Brazilian operations are U.S. dollar functional.
We also face translation risks related to the changes in foreign currency exchange rates which are generally not hedged. Amounts invested in these foreign operations are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. Any resulting translation adjustments are recorded as a component of "Accumulated other comprehensive income/loss" in the Shareholder's equity/deficit section of our consolidated balance sheets. Net sales and expenses at these non-U.S. dollar functional currency entities are translated into varying amounts of U.S. dollars depending upon whether the U.S. dollar weakens or strengthens against other currencies. Therefore, changes in exchange rates may either positively or negatively affect our net sales and expenses as expressed in U.S. dollars.
Any negative impact of currency movements on the currency contracts we have entered into to hedge foreign currency commitments to purchase or sell goods and services would be offset by an approximately equal and opposite favorable exchange impact on the commitments being hedged. For a discussion of accounting policies and other information relating to currency contracts, see Note 1 – Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Note 16 – Financial Instruments and Commodity Contracts to our accompanying consolidated financial statements.
50


Sensitivities
The following table presents the estimated potential negative effect on the fair values of these derivative instruments as of March 31, 2020, given a 10% change in rates. Direction of the change in exchange rate corresponds with the direction that would cause the change in exchange rate to negatively impact the fair value of these derivative instruments.
$ in millionsChange in Exchange RateChange in Fair Value
Currency measured against the U.S. dollar
Brazilian real(10)%$(24) 
Euro10 %$(15) 
Korean won(10)%$(35) 
Canadian dollar(10)%$(3) 
British pound(10)%$(16) 
Swiss franc(10)%$(24) 
Chinese yuan10 %$(4) 
Interest Rate Risks
We use interest rate swaps to manage our exposure to changes in benchmark interest rates which impact our variable-rate debt.
The interest rate paid on our Term Loan Facility is 1.85% plus LIBOR (1.45%). As of March 31, 2020, the effective interest rate was 3.30%. As of March 31, 2020, a 100 basis point increase or decrease in LIBOR interest rates would have had a $17 million impact on our annual pre-tax income.
As of March 31, 2020, Novelis had $555 million in borrowings under our ABL Revolver. The ABL Revolver Facility bears an interest rate of LIBOR plus a spread of 1.25% to 1.75% or a prime rate plus a prime spread of 0.25% to 0.75% based on excess availability. As of March 31, 2020, the effective interest rate was 1.87%. As of March 31, 2020, a 100 basis point increase or decrease in LIBOR interest rates would have had a $5 million impact on our annual pre-tax income.
From time to time, we have used interest rate swaps to manage our debt cost. As of March 31, 2020, there were no USD LIBOR based interest rate swaps outstanding.
In South Korea, we periodically enter into interest rate swaps to fix the interest rate on various floating rate debt in order to manage our exposure to changes in the 3M-CD interest rate. As of March 31, 2020, there were no 3M-CD based interest rate swaps outstanding.
 

51


Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
TABLE OF CONTENTS

52


Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act, as amended. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of the Company’s financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Our 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 the Company;
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
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 Company’s consolidated 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.
Management has assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2020. In making this assessment, management used the criteria established by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in "Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013)." Based on its assessment, management has concluded that, as of March 31, 2020, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective based on those criteria.
The effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2020 has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report which appears herein.



/s/ Steven Fisher
Steven Fisher
President and Chief Executive Officer
May 7, 2020


/s/ Devinder Ahuja
Devinder Ahuja
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
May 7, 2020

53


Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Directors and Shareholder of Novelis Inc.
Opinions on the Financial Statements and Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Novelis Inc. and its subsidiaries ("the Company") as of March 31, 2020 and 2019, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), shareholder’s (deficit) equity, and cash flows, for each of the three years in the period ended March 31, 2020, 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 March 31, 2020, 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 March 31, 2020 and 2019, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended March 31, 2020 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2020, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the COSO.
Change in Accounting Principle
As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed the manner in which it accounts for leases in fiscal 2020.
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. 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 and in accordance with standards generally accepted in the United States of America. 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.
54


Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
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.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Atlanta, Georgia
May 7, 2020
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2006.
55

Novelis Inc.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions202020192018
Net sales$11,217  $12,326  $11,462  
Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)9,231  10,422  9,700  
Selling, general and administrative expenses498  502  466  
Depreciation and amortization361  350  354  
Interest expense and amortization of debt issuance costs248  268  255  
Research and development expenses84  72  64  
Gain on sale of a business, net
    (318) 
Loss on extinguishment of debt
71      
Restructuring and impairment, net43  2  34  
Equity in net loss (income) of non-consolidated affiliates
2  (3) 1  
Business acquisition and other integration related costs63  33    
Other expenses, net18  44  51  
10,619  11,690  10,607  
Income before income tax provision
598  636  855  
Income tax provision
178  202  233  
Net income
420  434  622  
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
    (13) 
Net income attributable to our common shareholder
$420  $434  $635  
—————
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
56

Novelis Inc.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions202020192018
Net income
$420  $434  $622  
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Currency translation adjustment(73) (171) 191  
Net change in fair value of effective portion of hedges(10) (70) 109  
Net change in pension and other benefits(73) (8) 12  
Other comprehensive (loss) income before income tax effect
(156) (249) 312  
Income tax (benefit) provision related to items of other comprehensive income
(26) (22) 34  
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax
(130) (227) 278  
Comprehensive income
290  207  900  
Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interest, net of tax
(16) 2  (19) 
Comprehensive income attributable to our common shareholder
$306  $205  $919  
—————
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
57

Novelis Inc.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

March 31,
in millions, except number of shares20202019
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$2,392  $950  
Accounts receivable, net
— third parties (net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $8 and $7 as of March 31, 2020 and March 31, 2019, respectively)
1,067  1,417  
— related parties164  164  
Inventories1,409  1,460  
Prepaid expenses and other current assets145  121  
Fair value of derivative instruments202  70  
Assets held for sale5  3  
Total current assets5,384  4,185  
Property, plant and equipment, net3,580  3,390  
Goodwill607  607  
Intangible assets, net299  351  
Investment in and advances to non–consolidated affiliates760  792  
Deferred income tax assets140  142  
Other long–term assets219  101  
Total assets$10,989  $9,568  
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDER’S EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Current portion of long–term debt$19  $19  
Short–term borrowings176  39  
Accounts payable
— third parties1,732  1,986  
— related parties176  175  
Fair value of derivative instruments214  87  
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities613  616  
Total current liabilities2,930  2,922  
Long–term debt, net of current portion5,345  4,328  
Deferred income tax liabilities194  223  
Accrued postretirement benefits930  844  
Other long–term liabilities229  180  
Total liabilities9,628  8,497  
Commitments and contingencies
Shareholder’s equity:
Common stock, no par value; Unlimited number of shares authorized; 1,000 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2020 and March 31, 2019
    
Additional paid–in capital1,404  1,404  
Retained earnings
628  208  
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(620) (506) 
Total equity of our common shareholder1,412  1,106  
Noncontrolling interests(51) (35) 
Total equity1,361  1,071  
Total liabilities and equity$10,989  $9,568  
—————
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements. Refer to Note 8 – Consolidation for information on our consolidated variable interest entity (VIE).
58

Novelis Inc.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions202020192018
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income$420  $434  $622  
Adjustments to determine net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization361  350  354  
(Gain) loss on unrealized derivatives and other realized derivatives in investing activities, net
(4) (6) 15  
Gain on sale of business
    (318) 
Loss on sale of assets
1  6  7  
Impairment charges18    15  
Loss on extinguishment of debt
71      
Deferred income taxes  50  41  
Equity in net loss (income) of non-consolidated affiliates
2  (3) 1  
Gain on foreign exchange remeasurement of debt
    (2) 
Amortization of debt issuance costs and carrying value adjustments17  17  19  
Other, net2  (1) 1  
Changes in assets and liabilities including assets and liabilities held for sale (net of effects from divestitures):
Accounts receivable304  (71) (415) 
Inventories23  32  (151) 
Accounts payable(182) (74) 336  
Other assets(62) (10) 16  
Other liabilities(9) 4  32  
Net cash provided by operating activities
962  728  573  
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Capital expenditures(599) (351) (226) 
Acquisition of assets under a capital lease  (239)   
Proceeds from sales of assets, third party, net of transaction fees and hedging
3  2  2  
Proceeds from the sale of a business
    314  
Proceeds from investment in and advances to non-consolidated affiliates, net
3  12  16  
Proceeds (outflows) from settlement of derivative instruments, net
5  7  (23) 
Other13  12  13  
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities
(575) (557) 96  
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from issuance of long-term and short-term borrowings1,696      
Principal payments of long-term and short-term borrowings(1,225) (112) (174) 
Revolving credit facilities and other, net633  (2) (211) 
Debt issuance costs(40) (4) (5) 
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
1,064  (118) (390) 
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash
1,451  53  279  
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash(9) (25) 47  
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash — beginning of period960  932  606  
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash — end of period$2,402  $960  $932  
Cash and cash equivalents
$2,392  $950  $920  
Restricted cash (included in "Other long–term assets")
10  10  12  
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash — end of period$2,402  $960  $932  
Supplemental Disclosures:
Interest paid$222  $248  $254  
Income taxes paid172  159  191  
Accrued capital expenditures as of March 31100  136  53  
—————
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
59

Novelis Inc.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDER’S (DEFICIT) EQUITY

 (Deficit) Equity of our Common Shareholder  
 Common Stock
in millions, except number of sharesSharesAmountAdditional
Paid-in
Capital
Retained
Earnings
(Accumulated
Deficit)
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
(AOCI)
Non-
Controlling
Interests
Total
(Deficit) Equity
Balance as of March 31, 2017
1,000  $  $1,404  $(913) $(545) $(18) $(72) 
Net income attributable to our common shareholder
—  —  —  635  —  —  635  
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
—  —  —  —  —  (13) (13) 
Currency translation adjustment, included in AOCI—  —  —  —  191  —  191  
Change in fair value of effective portion of hedges, net of tax provision of $32 million included in AOCI
—  —  —  —  77  —  77  
Change in pension and other benefits, net of tax provision of $2 million included in AOCI
—  —  —  —  16  (6) 10  
Balance as of March 31, 2018
1,000    1,404  (278) (261) (37) 828  
Adoption of accounting standards updates (See Note 1)—  —  —  52  (16) —  36  
Balance as of April 1, 20181,000    1,404  (226) (277) (37) 864  
Net income attributable to our common shareholder
—  —  —  434  —  —  434  
Currency translation adjustment, included in AOCI—  —  —  —  (171) —  (171) 
Change in fair value of effective portion of cash flow hedges, net of tax benefit of $20 million included in AOCI
—  —  —  —  (50) —  (50) 
Change in pension and other benefits, net of tax benefit of $2 million included in AOCI
—  —  —  —  (8) 2  (6) 
Balance as of March 31, 2019
1,000    1,404  208  (506) (35) 1,071  
Net income attributable to our common shareholder
—  —  —  420  —  —  420  
Currency translation adjustment, included in AOCI—  —  —  —  (73) —  (73) 
Change in fair value of effective portion of cash flow hedges, net of tax benefit of $6 million included in AOCI
—  —  —  —  (4) —  (4) 
Change in pension and other benefits, net of tax benefit of $20 million included in AOCI
—  —  —  —  (37) (16) (53) 
Balance as of March 31, 2020
1,000  $  $1,404  $628  $(620) $(51) $1,361  
—————
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.
60

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. BUSINESS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
In this Annual Report on Form 10-K (Form 10-K), references herein to "Novelis," the "Company," "we," "our," or "us" refer to Novelis Inc. and its subsidiaries unless the context specifically indicates otherwise. References herein to "Hindalco" refer to Hindalco Industries Limited. Hindalco acquired Novelis in May 2007. All of the common shares of Novelis are owned directly by AV Metals Inc. and indirectly by Hindalco Industries Limited. Unless otherwise specified, the period referenced is the current fiscal year. Reference to fiscal 2020, fiscal 2019, or fiscal 2018 refers to the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020, 2019, or 2018, respectively.
Organization and Description of Business
We produce aluminum sheet and light gauge products for use in the packaging market, which includes beverage and food can and foil products, as well as for use in the automotive, transportation, electronics, architectural, and industrial product markets. We have recycling operations in many of our plants to recycle post-consumer aluminum, such as used-beverage cans and post-industrial aluminum, such as class scrap. As of March 31, 2020, we had manufacturing operations in nine countries on four continents: North America, South America, Asia, and Europe, through 22 operating facilities, including recycling operations in 12 of these plants.
Consolidation Policy
Our consolidated financial statements include the assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses of all wholly-owned subsidiaries, majority-owned subsidiaries over which we exercise control, and entities in which we have a controlling financial interest or are deemed to be the primary beneficiary. We eliminate intercompany accounts and transactions from our consolidated financial statements.
We use the equity method to account for our investments in entities that we do not control, but where we have the ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financial policies. Consolidated "Net income attributable to our common shareholder" includes our share of net income (loss) of these entities. The difference between consolidation and the equity method impacts certain of our financial ratios because of the presentation of the detailed line items reported in the consolidated financial statements for consolidated entities, compared to a two-line presentation of "Investment in and advances to non-consolidated affiliates" and "Equity in net (income) loss of non-consolidated affiliates."
Use of Estimates and Assumptions
The preparation of our consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (U.S. GAAP) requires us to make estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. The principal areas of judgment relate to (1) impairment of goodwill; (2) impairment of long lived assets and other intangible assets; (3) impairment of equity investments; (4) actuarial assumptions related to pension and other postretirement benefit plans; (5) tax uncertainties and valuation allowances; (6) assessment of loss contingencies, including environmental and litigation liabilities; and (7) the fair value of derivative financial instruments. Future events and their effects cannot be predicted with certainty, and accordingly, our accounting estimates require the exercise of judgment. The accounting estimates used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements may change as new events occur, as more experience is acquired, as additional information is obtained and as our operating environment changes. We evaluate and update our assumptions and estimates on an ongoing basis and may employ outside experts to assist in our evaluations. Actual results could differ from the estimates we have used.
Reclassifications and Revisions of Previously Issued Financial Statements
Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform with current period presentations or as a result of recently adopted accounting standards, as discussed below.
During the preparation of the consolidated financial statements for fiscal 2020, we identified a misstatement related to the sale of land within previously issued Form 10-Ks for the years ended March 31, 2019, March 31, 2018 and March 31, 2017. The previously disclosed amounts for "Property, plant and equipment, net" and "Retained earnings" were understated by $5 million as of March 31, 2019, March 31, 2018, and March 31, 2017.
We assessed the materiality of the misstatement and concluded it was not material to the Company’s previously issued financial statements for the years ended March 31, 2019, March 31, 2018, and March 31, 2017 and that amendments of previously filed financial statements were therefore not required. However, we elected to revise the previously reported amounts in the consolidated balance sheets, consolidated statements of shareholder's (deficit) equity, and notes to the consolidated financial statements for the impacted periods, as applicable, to correct the misstatement. There was no impact on the consolidated statements of cash flows or consolidated statements of operations for the years ended March 31, 2019 or March 31, 2018.
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Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Risks and Uncertainties
We are exposed to a number of risks in the normal course of our operations that could potentially affect our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.
Laws and regulations
We operate in an industry that is subject to a broad range of environmental, health and safety laws and regulations in the jurisdictions in which we operate. These laws and regulations impose increasingly stringent environmental, health and safety protection standards and permitting requirements regarding, among other things, air emissions, wastewater storage, treatment and discharges, the use and handling of hazardous or toxic materials, waste disposal practices, the remediation of environmental contamination, post-mining reclamation and working conditions for our employees. Some environmental laws, such as the U.S. Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, also known as CERCLA or Superfund, and comparable state laws, impose joint and several liability for the cost of environmental remediation, natural resource damages, third party claims, and other expenses, without regard to the fault or the legality of the original conduct.
The costs of complying with these laws and regulations, including participation in assessments and remediation of contaminated sites and installation of pollution control facilities, have been, and in the future could be, significant. In addition, these laws and regulations may also result in substantial environmental liabilities associated with divested assets, third party locations and past activities. In certain instances, these costs and liabilities, as well as related action to be taken by us, could be accelerated or increased if we were to close, divest of or change the principal use of certain facilities with respect to which we may have environmental liabilities or remediation obligations. Currently, we are involved in a number of compliance efforts, remediation activities and legal proceedings concerning environmental matters, including certain activities and proceedings arising under U.S. Superfund and comparable laws in other jurisdictions where we have operations.
We have established liabilities for environmental remediation where appropriate. However, the cost of addressing environmental matters (including the timing of any charges related thereto) cannot be predicted with certainty, and these liabilities may not ultimately be adequate, especially in light of potential changes in environmental conditions, changing interpretations of laws and regulations by regulators and courts, the discovery of previously unknown environmental conditions, the risk of governmental orders to carry out additional compliance on certain sites not initially included in remediation in progress, our potential liability to remediate sites for which provisions have not been previously established and the adoption of more stringent environmental laws. Such future developments could result in increased environmental costs and liabilities and could require significant capital expenditures, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our financial position or results of operations or cash flows. Furthermore, the failure to comply with our obligations under the environmental laws and regulations could subject us to administrative, civil or criminal penalties, obligations to pay damages or other costs, and injunctions or other orders, including orders to cease operations. In addition, the presence of environmental contamination at our properties could adversely affect our ability to sell a property, receive full value for a property or use a property as collateral for a loan.
Some of our current and potential operations are located or could be located in or near communities that may regard such operations as having a detrimental effect on their social and economic circumstances. Environmental laws typically provide for participation in permitting decisions, site remediation decisions and other matters. Concern about environmental justice issues may affect our operations. Should such community objections be presented to government officials, the consequences of such a development may have a material adverse impact upon the profitability or, in extreme cases, the viability of an operation. In addition, such developments may adversely affect our ability to expand or enter into new operations in such location or elsewhere and may also have an effect on the cost of our environmental remediation projects.
We use a variety of hazardous materials and chemicals in our rolling processes and in connection with maintenance work on our manufacturing facilities. Because of the nature of these substances or related residues, we may be liable for certain costs, including, among others, costs for health-related claims or removal or re-treatment of such substances. Certain of our current and former facilities incorporated asbestos-containing materials, a hazardous substance that has been the subject of health-related claims for occupation exposure. In addition, although we have developed environmental, health and safety programs for our employees, including measures to reduce employee exposure to hazardous substances, and conduct regular assessments at our facilities, we are currently, and in the future may be, involved in claims and litigation filed on behalf of persons alleging injury predominantly as a result of occupational exposure to substances at our current or former facilities. It is not possible to predict the ultimate outcome of these claims and lawsuits due to the unpredictable nature of personal injury litigation. If these claims and lawsuits, individually or in the aggregate, were finally resolved against us, our financial position, results of operations and cash flows could be adversely affected.
62

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Materials and labor
In the aluminum rolled products industry, our raw materials are subject to continuous price volatility. We may not be able to pass on the entire cost of the increases to our customers or offset fully the effects of higher raw material costs through productivity improvements, which may cause our profitability to decline. In addition, there is a potential time lag between changes in prices under our purchase contracts and the point when we can implement a corresponding change under our sales contracts with our customers. As a result, we could be exposed to fluctuations in raw materials prices which could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Significant price increases may result in our customers substituting other materials, such as plastic or glass, for aluminum or switching to another aluminum rolled products producer, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
We consume substantial amounts of energy in our rolling operations and our cast house operations. The factors that affect our energy costs and supply reliability tend to be specific to each of our facilities. A number of factors could materially adversely affect our energy position including, but not limited to: (a) increases in the cost of natural gas; (b) increases in the cost of supplied electricity or fuel oil related to transportation; (c) interruptions in energy supply due to equipment failure or other causes and (d) the inability to extend energy supply contracts upon expiration on favorable terms. A significant increase in energy costs or disruption of energy supplies or supply arrangements could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
A substantial portion of our employees are represented by labor unions under a large number of collective bargaining agreements with varying durations and expiration dates. Although we have not experienced a strike or work stoppage in recent years, we may not be successful in preventing such an event from occurring in the future at one or more of our manufacturing facilities. In addition, we may not be able to satisfactorily renegotiate our collective bargaining agreements when they expire. Any work stoppages or material changes in the terms of our labor agreements could have an adverse impact on our financial condition.
Geographic markets
We are, and will continue to be, subject to financial, political, economic and business risks in connection with our global operations. We have made investments and carry on production activities in various emerging markets, including China, Brazil and South Korea, and we market our products in these countries, as well as certain other countries in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. While we anticipate higher growth or attractive production opportunities from these emerging markets, they also present a higher degree of risk than more developed markets. In addition to the business risks inherent in developing and servicing new markets, economic conditions may be more volatile, legal and regulatory systems may be less developed and predictable, and the possibility of various types of adverse governmental action may be more pronounced. In addition, inflation, fluctuations in currency and interest rates, competitive factors, civil unrest and labor problems could affect our revenues, expenses and results of operations. Our operations could also be adversely affected by acts of war, terrorism or the threat of any of these events as well as government actions such as controls on imports, exports and prices, tariffs, new forms of taxation, changes in fiscal regimes and increased government regulation in the countries in which we operate or service customers. Unexpected or uncontrollable events or circumstances in any of these markets could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
Other risks and uncertainties
In addition, refer to Note 16 – Financial Instruments and Commodity Contracts, Note 18 – Fair Value Measurements, Note 21 – Commitments and Contingencies, and Note 24 – Subsequent Events for a discussion of financial instruments, commitments and contingencies, and COVID-19.
Net Sales
We recognize revenue in accordance with ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606). See Note 2 – Revenue from Contracts with Customers for additional information on our revenue recognition policies.
Cost of Goods Sold (Exclusive of Depreciation and Amortization)
"Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)" includes all costs associated with inventories, including the procurement of materials, the conversion of such materials into finished products, and the costs of warehousing and distributing finished goods to customers. Material procurement costs include inbound freight charges as well as purchasing, receiving, inspection and storage costs. Conversion costs include the costs of direct production inputs such as labor and energy, as well as allocated overheads from indirect production centers and plant administrative support areas. Warehousing and distribution costs include inside and outside storage costs, outbound freight charges and the costs of internal transfers.
63

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
"Selling, general and administrative expenses" include selling, marketing and advertising expenses; salaries, travel and office expenses of administrative employees and contractors; legal and professional fees; software license fees; bad debt expenses; and factoring expenses.
Research and Development
We incur costs in connection with research and development programs that are expected to contribute to future earnings, and charge such costs against income as incurred. Research and development costs consist primarily of salaries and administrative costs.
Restructuring Activities
Restructuring charges, which are recorded within "Restructuring and impairment, net," include employee severance and benefit costs, impairments of assets, and other costs associated with exit activities. Restructuring costs are determined based on estimates prepared at the time the restructuring actions were approved by management and are periodically updated for changes. Restructuring costs include expenses that are recorded through the restructuring liability. We apply the provisions of ASC 420, Exit or Disposal Cost Obligations and ASC 712, Compensation — Nonretirement Postemployment Benefits. Severance costs accounted for under ASC 420 and/or ASC 712 are recognized when management with the proper level of authority has committed to a restructuring plan and communicated those actions to employees. Impairment losses are based upon the estimated fair value less costs to sell, with fair value estimated based on existing market prices for similar assets. Other exit costs include environmental remediation costs and contract termination costs, primarily related to equipment and facility lease obligations. At each reporting date, we evaluate the accruals for restructuring costs to ensure the accruals are still appropriate. See Note 3 – Restructuring and Impairment for further discussion.
Business Acquisition and Other Integration Related Costs
"Business acquisition and other integration related costs" include expenses associated with the acquisition of Aleris Corporation (Aleris), which closed on April 14, 2020. The expenses consist of the costs incurred related to the transaction and to the integration of Aleris subsequent to the acquisition. See Note 24 – Subsequent Events for further details about the transaction.
Carbon Emission Allowances
Emission allowances are recognized when there is reasonable assurance that we will comply with the respective conditions required and that the allowances, or grants, will be received. The allowances are recognized as income over the respective periods in which the intended expenses are offset. We recognize emission allowances as non-amortizing intangible assets since the allowance benefit is an offset against a future expense demonstrating compliance with the respective regulation, and never received in the form of cash. Although the intangible is not amortized, it is subject to impairment under the indefinite lived intangible asset impairment model. The intangible asset is recognized at nominal value once we have satisfied all requirements, are granted the allowance(s) and are able to exercise control. Any excess credits are accrued.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
"Cash and cash equivalents" includes investments that are highly liquid and have maturities of three months or less when purchased. The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents approximate their fair value due to the short-term nature of these instruments.
We maintain amounts on deposit with various financial institutions, which may, at times, exceed federally insured limits. However, management periodically evaluates the credit-worthiness of those institutions, and we have not experienced any losses on such deposits.
Restricted Cash
Restricted cash is comprised of cash deposits for employee benefits and is disclosed on the consolidated statement of cash flows. Restricted cash is included in "Other long–term assets" on the consolidated balance sheet.
64

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Accounts Receivable
Our accounts receivable are geographically dispersed. We do not obtain collateral relating to our accounts receivable. We do not believe there are any significant concentrations of revenues from any particular customer or group of customers that would subject us to any significant credit risks in the collection of our accounts receivable. We report accounts receivable at the estimated net realizable amount we expect to collect from our customers.
Additions to the allowance for doubtful accounts are made by means of the provision for doubtful accounts. We write-off uncollectible accounts receivable against the allowance for doubtful accounts after exhausting collection efforts. For each of the periods presented, we performed an analysis of our historical cash collection patterns and considered the impact of any known material events in determining the allowance for doubtful accounts. See Note 4 – Accounts Receivable for further discussion.
Derivative Instruments
We hold derivatives for risk management purposes and not for trading. We use derivatives to mitigate uncertainty and volatility caused by underlying exposures to aluminum prices, foreign exchange rates, interest rates, and energy prices. The fair values of all derivative instruments are recognized as assets or liabilities at the balance sheet date and are reported gross.
We may be exposed to losses in the future if the counterparties to our derivative contracts fail to perform. We are satisfied that the risk of such non-performance is remote due to our monitoring of credit exposures. Additionally, we enter into master netting agreements with contractual provisions that allow for netting of counterparty positions in case of default, and we do not face credit contingent provisions that would result in the posting of collateral.
In accordance with ASU 2017-12 Derivatives and Hedging: Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities, for cash flow hedges we recognize and defer the entire periodic change in the fair value of the hedging instrument in other comprehensive income (loss). The amounts recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) are subsequently reclassified to earnings in the same line item impacted by the hedged item when the hedged item affects earnings.
For derivatives designated as cash flow hedges or net investment hedges, we assess hedge effectiveness by formally evaluating the high correlation of the expected future cash flows of the hedged item and the derivative hedging instrument. The entire change in the fair value of the hedging instrument included in the assessment of hedge effectiveness is included in other comprehensive income (OCI) and reclassified to earnings in the period in which earnings are impacted by the hedged items or in the period that the transaction becomes probable of not occurring. Gains or losses representing reclassifications of OCI to earnings are recognized in the same line item that is impacted by the underlying exposure. We exclude the time value component of foreign currency and aluminum price risk hedges when measuring and assessing effectiveness to align our accounting policy with risk management objectives when it is necessary. If at any time during the life of a cash flow hedge relationship we determine that the relationship is no longer effective, the derivative will no longer be designated as a cash flow hedge and future gains or losses on the derivative will be recognized in "Other expenses, net."
For derivatives designated as fair value hedges, we assess hedge effectiveness by formally evaluating the high correlation of changes in the fair value of the hedged item and the derivative hedging instrument. The changes in the fair values of the underlying hedged items are reported in "Prepaid expenses and other current assets," "Other long-term assets", "Accrued expenses and other current liabilities," and "Other long-term liabilities" in the consolidated balance sheets. Changes in the fair values of these derivatives and underlying hedged items generally offset, and the entire change in the fair value of derivatives is recorded in the statement of operations line item consistent with the underlying hedged item.
If no hedging relationship is designated, gains or losses are recognized in "Other expenses, net" in our current period earnings.
Consistent with the cash flows from the underlying risk exposure, we classify cash settlement amounts associated with designated derivatives as part of either operating or investing activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows. If no hedging relationship is designated, we classify cash settlement amounts as part of investing activities in the consolidated statement of cash flows.
The majority of our derivative contracts are valued using industry-standard models that use observable market inputs as their basis, such as time value, forward interest rates, volatility factors, and current (spot) and forward market prices for commodity and foreign exchange rates. See Note 16 – Financial Instruments and Commodity Contracts and Note 18 – Fair Value Measurements for additional discussion related to derivative instruments.
Inventories
We carry our inventories at the lower of their cost or net realizable value, reduced for obsolete and excess inventory. We use the average cost method to determine cost. Included in inventories are stores inventories, which are carried at average cost. See Note 5 – Inventories for further discussion.
65

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Property, Plant and Equipment
We record land, buildings, leasehold improvements, and machinery and equipment at cost. We record assets under capital lease obligations at the lower of their fair value or the present value of the aggregate future minimum lease payments as of the beginning of the lease term. We generally depreciate our assets using the straight-line method over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the assets or the lease term, excluding any lease renewals, unless the lease renewals are reasonably assured. See Note 6 – Property, Plant and Equipment for further discussion. We assign useful lives to and depreciate major components of our property, plant and equipment.
The ranges of estimated useful lives are as follows:
 Years
Buildings
30 to 40
Leasehold improvements
7 to 20
Machinery and equipment
2 to 25
Furniture, fixtures and equipment
3 to 10
Equipment under finance lease obligations
5 to 15
Most of our large scale machinery, including hot mills, cold mills, continuous casting mills, furnaces and finishing mills have useful lives of 15 to 25 years. Supporting machinery and equipment, including automation and work rolls, have useful lives of 2 to 15 years.
Maintenance and repairs of property and equipment are expensed as incurred. We capitalize replacements and improvements that increase the estimated useful life of an asset, and we capitalize interest on major construction and development projects while in progress. Capitalized interest costs are included in property, plant and equipment and are depreciated over the useful life of the related asset. 
We retain fully depreciated assets in property and accumulated depreciation accounts until we remove them from service. In the case of sale, retirement or disposal, the asset cost and related accumulated depreciation balances are removed from the respective accounts, and the resulting net amount, after consideration of any proceeds, is included as a gain or loss in "Other expenses, net" or "Gain on assets held for sale" in our consolidated statements of operations.
We account for operating leases under the provisions of ASC 842, Leases. This pronouncement requires us to recognize escalating rents, including any rent holidays, on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease for those lease agreements where we receive the right to control the use of the entire leased property at the beginning of the lease term.
Goodwill
We test for impairment at least annually as of the last day of each fiscal year, unless a triggering event occurs that would require an interim impairment assessment. We do not aggregate components of operating segments to arrive at our reporting units and, as such, our reporting units are the same as our operating segments.
In performing our goodwill impairment test, we have the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events or circumstances leads to a determination that it is more likely than not that the estimated fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If we perform a qualitative assessment and determine that an impairment is more likely than not, then we perform the two-step quantitative impairment test, otherwise no further analysis is required. We also may elect not to perform the qualitative assessment and, instead, proceed directly to the two-step quantitative impairment test. The ultimate outcome of the goodwill impairment assessment will be the same whether we choose to perform the qualitative assessment or proceed directly to the two-step quantitative impairment test.
For the years ended March 31, 2019 and 2018, we performed our annual goodwill impairment test as of February 28, 2019 and February 28, 2018, respectively. During the year ended March 31, 2020, we changed the date of our annual goodwill impairment assessment to March 31, 2020 and performed our testing as of both February 29, 2020 and March 31, 2020. This change to our method of applying current accounting guidance is preferable as it better aligns with the impairment assessment date of our indirect parent company. This change did not delay, accelerate or avoid any impairment charge. No goodwill impairment was identified for the years ended March 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018. See Note 7 – Goodwill and Intangible Assets for further discussion.
66

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
We use the present value of estimated future cash flows to establish the estimated fair value of our reporting units as of the testing date. This approach includes many assumptions related to future growth rates, discount factors and tax rates, among other considerations. Changes in economic and operating conditions impacting these assumptions could result in goodwill impairment in future periods. When available and as appropriate, we use the market approach to corroborate the estimated fair value. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit's goodwill exceeds its estimated fair value, the second step of the impairment test is performed in order to determine the amount of impairment loss, if any. The second step compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit's goodwill exceeds its implied fair value, we would recognize an impairment charge in an amount equal to that excess in our consolidated statements of operations. During our analysis for the years ended March 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, the estimated fair value of each of our reporting units exceeded the carrying amount of the reporting unit's goodwill, and thus, no reporting unit failed step one of testing.
When a business within a reporting unit is disposed of, goodwill is allocated to the gain or loss on disposition using the relative fair value methodology.
Long-Lived Assets and Other Intangible Assets
We amortize the cost of intangible assets over their respective estimated useful lives to their estimated residual value. See Note 7 – Goodwill and Intangible Assets for further discussion.
We assess the recoverability of long-lived assets (excluding goodwill) and finite-lived intangible assets, whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that we may not be able to recover the asset’s carrying amount. We measure the recoverability of assets to be held and used by a comparison of the carrying amount of the asset (groups) to the expected, undiscounted future net cash flows to be generated by that asset (groups), or, for identifiable intangible assets, by determining whether the amortization of the intangible asset balance over its remaining life can be recovered through undiscounted future cash flows. The amount of impairment of identifiable intangible assets is based on the present value of estimated future cash flows. We measure the amount of impairment of other long-lived assets and intangible assets (excluding goodwill) as the amount by which the carrying value of the asset exceeds the fair value of the asset, which is generally determined as the present value of estimated future cash flows or as the appraised value. Impairments of long-lived assets and intangible assets are included in "Restructuring and impairment, net" in the consolidated statement of operations. See Note 3 – Restructuring and Impairment for further discussions.
Assets and Liabilities Held for Sale
We classify long-lived assets (disposal groups) to be sold as held for sale in the period in which all of the following criteria are met: management, having the authority to approve the action, commits to a plan to sell the asset (disposal group); the asset (disposal group) is available for immediate sale in its present condition subject only to terms that are usual and customary for sales of such assets (disposal groups); an active program to locate a buyer and other actions required to complete the plan to sell the asset (disposal group) have been initiated; the sale of the asset (disposal group) is probable, and transfer of the asset (disposal group) is expected to qualify for recognition as a completed sale within one year, except if events or circumstances beyond our control extend the period of time required to sell the asset (disposal group) beyond one year; the asset (disposal group) is being actively marketed for sale at a price that is reasonable in relation to its current fair value; and actions required to complete the plan indicate that it is unlikely that significant changes to the plan will be made or that the plan will be withdrawn.
We initially measure a long-lived asset (disposal group) that is classified as held for sale at the lower of its carrying value or fair value less any costs to sell. Any loss resulting from this measurement is recognized in the period in which the held for sale criteria are met. Conversely, gains are not recognized on the sale of a long-lived asset (disposal group) until the date of sale. We assess the fair value of a long-lived asset (disposal group) less any costs to sell each reporting period it remains classified as held for sale and report any reduction in fair value as an adjustment to the carrying value of the asset (disposal group). Upon being classified as held for sale we cease depreciation. We continue to depreciate long-lived assets to be disposed of other than by sale.
Upon determining that a long-lived asset (disposal group) meets the criteria to be classified as held for sale, we report the assets and liabilities of the disposal group in the line items "Assets held for sale" and "Liabilities held for sale," respectively in our consolidated balance sheets.
67

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Investment in and Advances to Non-Consolidated Affiliates
We assess the potential for other-than-temporary impairment of our equity method investments when impairment indicators are identified. We consider all available information, including the recoverability of the investment, the earnings and near-term prospects of the affiliate, factors related to the industry, conditions of the affiliate, and our ability, if any, to influence the management of the affiliate. We assess fair value based on valuation methodologies, as appropriate, including the present value of estimated future cash flows, estimates of sales proceeds, and external appraisals. If an investment is considered to be impaired and the decline in value is other than temporary, we record an appropriate write-down. See Note 9 – Investment in and Advances to Non-Consolidated Affiliates and Related Party Transactions for further discussion.
Financing Costs
We amortize financing costs and premiums, and accrete discounts, over the remaining life of the related debt using the effective interest amortization method, unless the impact of utilizing the straight-line method results in an immaterial difference. The expense is included in "Interest expense and amortization of debt issuance costs" in our consolidated statements of operations. We record discounts and unamortized financing costs as a direct deduction from, or premiums as a direct addition to, the face amount of the financing.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
ASC 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (ASC 820), defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. ASC 820 also applies to measurements under other accounting pronouncements, such as ASC 825, Financial Instruments (ASC 825) that require or permit fair value measurements. ASC 825 requires disclosures of the fair value of financial instruments. Our financial instruments include: cash and cash equivalents; certificates of deposit; accounts receivable; accounts payable; foreign currency, energy and interest rate derivative instruments; cross-currency swaps; metal option and forward contracts; share-based compensation; related party notes receivable and payable; letters of credit; short-term borrowings and long-term debt.
The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, certificates of deposit, accounts receivable, accounts payable and current related party notes receivable and payable approximate their fair value because of the short-term maturity and highly liquid nature of these instruments. The fair value of our letters of credit is deemed to be the amount of payment guaranteed on our behalf by third party financial institutions. We determine the fair value of our short-term borrowings and long-term debt based on various factors including maturity schedules, call features and current market rates. We also use quoted market prices, when available, or the present value of estimated future cash flows to determine fair value of our share-based compensation liabilities, short-term borrowings and long-term debt. When quoted market prices are not available for various types of financial instruments (such as currency, energy and interest rate derivative instruments, swaps, options and forward contracts), we use standard pricing models with market-based inputs, which take into account the present value of estimated future cash flows. See Note 18 – Fair Value Measurements for further discussion.
Pensions and Postretirement Benefits
Our pension obligations relate to funded defined benefit pension plans in the U.S., Canada, Switzerland and the U.K., unfunded pension plans in the U.S., Canada, and Germany, and unfunded lump sum indemnities in France and Italy; and partially funded lump sum indemnities in South Korea. Our other postretirement obligations include unfunded health care and life insurance benefits provided to retired employees in Canada, the U.S. and Brazil. 
We account for our pensions and other postretirement benefits in accordance with ASC 715, Compensation — Retirement Benefits (ASC 715). We recognize the funded status of our benefit plans as a net asset or liability, with an offsetting adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income in shareholder’s (deficit) equity. The funded status is calculated as the difference between the fair value of plan assets and the benefit obligation. For the fiscal years ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, we used March 31 as the measurement date.
We use standard actuarial methods and assumptions to account for our pension and other postretirement benefit plans. Pension and postretirement benefit obligations are actuarially calculated using management’s best estimates of the rate used to discount the future estimated liability, the long-term rate of return on plan assets, and several assumptions related to the employee workforce (compensation increases, health care cost trend rates, expected service period, retirement age, and mortality). Pension and postretirement benefit expense includes the actuarially computed cost of benefits earned during the current service period, the interest cost on accrued obligations, the expected return on plan assets based on fair market value and the straight-line amortization of net actuarial gains and losses and adjustments due to plan amendments, curtailments, and settlements. Net actuarial gains and losses are amortized over periods of 15 years or less, which represent the group's average future service life of the employees or the group's average life expectancy. See Note 14 – Postretirement Benefit Plans for further discussion.
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Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Affiliates
These financial statements reflect the application of ASC 810, Consolidations (ASC 810), which establishes accounting and reporting standards that require: (i) the ownership interest in subsidiaries held by parties other than the parent to be clearly identified and presented in the consolidated balance sheet within shareholder’s (deficit) equity, but separate from the parent’s (deficit) equity; (ii) the amount of consolidated net income attributable to the parent and the noncontrolling interest to be clearly identified and presented on the face of the consolidated statement of operations and (iii) changes in a parent’s ownership interest while the parent retains its controlling financial interest in its subsidiary to be accounted for consistently.
Our consolidated financial statements include all assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses of less-than-100%-owned affiliates that we control or for which we are the primary beneficiary. We record a noncontrolling interest for the allocable portion of income or loss and comprehensive income or loss to which the noncontrolling interest holders are entitled based upon their ownership share of the affiliate. Distributions made to the holders of noncontrolling interests are charged to the respective noncontrolling interest balance.
Losses attributable to the noncontrolling interest in an affiliate may exceed our interest in the affiliate’s equity. The excess, and any further losses attributable to the noncontrolling interest, shall be attributed to those interests. The noncontrolling interest shall continue to be attributed its share of losses even if that attribution results in a deficit noncontrolling interest balance.
Environmental Liabilities
We record accruals for environmental matters when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the liability can be reasonably estimated, based on current law and existing technologies. We adjust these accruals periodically as assessment and remediation efforts progress or as additional technical or legal information becomes available. Accruals for environmental liabilities are stated at undiscounted amounts. Environmental liabilities are included in our consolidated balance sheets in "Accrued expenses and other current liabilities" and "Other long-term liabilities," depending on their short- or long-term nature. Any receivables for related insurance or other third party recoveries for environmental liabilities are recorded when it is probable that a recovery will be realized and are included in our consolidated balance sheets in "Prepaid expenses and other current assets."
Costs related to environmental matters are charged to expense. Estimated future incremental operations, maintenance and management costs directly related to remediation are accrued in the period in which such costs are determined to be probable and estimable. See Note 21 – Commitments and Contingencies for further discussion.
Litigation Contingencies
We accrue for loss contingencies associated with outstanding litigation, claims and assessments for which management has determined it is probable that a loss contingency exists and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. We expense professional fees associated with litigation claims and assessments as incurred. See Note 21 – Commitments and Contingencies for further discussion.
Income Taxes
We account for income taxes using the asset and liability method. This approach recognizes the amount of income taxes payable or refundable for the current year, as well as deferred tax assets and liabilities for the future tax consequence of events recognized in the consolidated financial statements and income tax returns. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are adjusted to recognize the effects of changes in tax laws or enacted tax rates. Under ASC 740 Income Taxes, (ASC 740) a valuation allowance is required when it is more likely than not that some portion of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Realization is dependent on generating sufficient taxable income through various sources.
We record tax benefits related to uncertain tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return when such benefits meet a more than likely than not threshold. Otherwise, these tax benefits are recorded when a tax position has been effectively settled, the statute of limitation has expired or the appropriate taxing authority has completed their examination. Interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions are recognized as part of the provision for income taxes and are accrued beginning in the period that such interest and penalties would be applicable under relevant tax law until such time that the related tax benefits are recognized. See Note 20 – Income Taxes for further discussion.
Share-Based Compensation
In accordance with ASC 718, CompensationStock Compensation (ASC 718), we recognize compensation expense for a share-based award over an employee’s requisite service period based on the award’s grant date fair value, subject to adjustment. Our share-based awards are settled in cash and are accounted for as liability based awards. As such, liabilities for awards under these plans are required to be measured at fair value at each reporting date until the date of settlement. See Note 13 – Share-Based Compensation for further discussion.
69

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Foreign Currency Translation
The assets and liabilities of foreign operations, whose functional currency is other than the U.S. dollar (located in Europe and Asia), are translated to U.S. dollars at the period end exchange rates and revenues and expenses are translated at average exchange rates for the period. Differences arising from this translation are included in the currency translation adjustment (CTA) component of Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (AOCI) and Noncontrolling Interest, both of which are on the balance sheet. If there is a planned or completed sale or liquidation of our ownership in a foreign operation, the relevant CTA is recognized in our consolidated statement of operations.
For all operations, the monetary items denominated in currencies other than the functional currency are remeasured at period-end exchange rates and transaction gains and losses are included in "Other expenses, net" in our consolidated statements of operations. Non-monetary items are remeasured at historical rates.
70

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Recently Adopted Accounting Standards
StandardAdoptionDescriptionDisclosure Impact
ASU 2019-07, Codification Updates to SEC Sections (Issued July 2019)
July 1, 2019The standard provides various codification updates and improvements to address comments received.The adoption of this standard did not have an impact on the consolidated financial statements.
ASU 2018-16, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Inclusion of the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) Overnight Index Swap (OIS) Rate as a Benchmark Interest Rate for Hedge Accounting Purposes (Issued October 2018)
April 1, 2019The standard permits the use of the OIS based on the SOFR as a U.S. benchmark interest rate for purposes of hedge accounting under Topic 815 as requested by the Federal Reserve Board during deliberations leading to the issuance of ASU 2017-12. The FASB recognized that although the OIS rate based on SOFR is not yet widely recognized and quoted within the U.S. financial market, the attributes of the repo rates underlying the calculation of SOFR are recognized.The adoption of this standard did not have an impact on the consolidated financial statements and disclosures.
ASU 2018-09, Codification Improvements (Issued July 2018)
April 1, 2019The standard provides various codification updates and improvements to address comments received.The adoption of this standard did not have an impact on the consolidated financial statements and disclosures.
ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) along with additional technical improvements, practical expedients, and clarifications since issued. (Issued February 2016)
April 1, 2019The standard requires organizations that lease assets to recognize assets and liabilities for the rights and obligations created by the leases on balance sheet. The standard requires qualitative and quantitative disclosures to help investors and financial statement users better understand the amount, timing and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases.
We recognized right-of-use assets and lease liabilities on our consolidated balance sheets with no impact to the opening balance of retained earnings. The adoption of this standard did not have a material effect on the consolidated statement of operations or the consolidated statement of cash flows. See Note 10 – Leases for further details on the adoption of this standard.
ASU 2018-02, Income Statement — Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Issued February 2018)
April 1, 2018The standard provides an option to reclassify stranded tax effects within Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (AOCI) to Retained earnings due to the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate change in the U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (the Act).
We reclassified $16 million into retained earnings of our common shareholder from AOCI. This reclassification consisted of deferred taxes originally recorded in AOCI at rates that exceeded the newly enacted U.S. federal corporate tax rate. There was no impact to net income. Certain prior period amounts have been adjusted as a result of the adoption of this standard.
ASU 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820) Disclosure Framework - Change to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement (Issued August 2018)
April 1, 2018The standard modifies the disclosure requirements on fair value measurements in Topic 820 including the consideration of costs and benefits. The amendments relate to changes in disclosures on unrealized gains and losses, the disclosure of the range and weighted average of significant unobservable inputs used to develop Level 3 fair value measurements, and the narrative description of measurement uncertainty were applied prospectively, where applicable.The adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements and disclosures.
ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), and all the related amendments, which supersedes the former standard, ASC 605, Revenue Recognition (Issued May 2014)
April 1, 2018The standard requires entities to recognize revenue based on the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for these goods or services.We adopted this standard using the modified retrospective transition approach. The adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements and disclosures.
ASU 2017-07, Compensation - Retirement Benefits (Topic 715): Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost (Issued March 2017)
April 1, 2018The standard requires entities to (1) disaggregate the current service cost component from the other components of net benefit cost (the “other components”) and present the other components within non-operating income and (2) present the other components elsewhere in the results of operations and outside of income from operations if that subtotal is presented. In addition, the new standard requires entities to disclose the results of operations line items that contain the other components if they are not presented on appropriately described separate lines.We adopted this standard on a retrospective basis and utilized the practical expedient. As a result, we reclassified the net periodic benefit cost, exclusive of service cost, to "Other expenses, net" for the comparative prior periods.
ASU 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230) -Restricted Cash. (Issued November 2016)
April 1, 2018The standard requires that a statement of cash flows explain the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents. We adopted this standard on a retrospective basis and disclose the nature of the restrictions for material balances of restricted cash.
ASU 2016-16, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory (Issued October 2016)
April 1, 2018The standard eliminates the exception for all intra-entity sales of assets other than inventory. It requires the tax effect of intra-entity sales of assets other than inventory to be recognized currently which will impact Novelis’ effective tax rate. The changes require the current and deferred income tax consequences of the intra-entity transfer to be recorded when the transaction occurs.
We adopted this standard on a modified retrospective basis and the cumulative effect of the change on retained earnings is $36 million with a corresponding impact to deferred tax balances. Certain prior period amounts have been adjusted as a result of the adoption of this standard.
ASU 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230) - Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments (Issued August 2016)
April 1, 2018The standard addresses eight specific cash flow items to provide clarification and reduce the diversity in presentation of these items. We adopted this standard on a retrospective basis, and we reclassified the cash received related to beneficial interest in certain factored accounts receivables from operating activities to investing activities.
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Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
ASU 2017-09, Compensation-Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Scope of Modification Accounting (Issued May 2017)
April 1, 2018The standard provides clarity and reduces both (1) diversity in practice and (2) cost and complexity when applying the standard in Topic 718, Compensation-Stock Compensation, to a change to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award. An entity may change the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award for many different reasons, and the nature and effect of the change can vary significantly. This standard requires modification accounting only if the fair value, the vesting conditions, or the classification of the award (as equity or liability) changes as a result of the change in terms or conditions.The adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements and disclosures.
ASU 2017-05, Other Income-Gains and Losses from the Derecognition of Non-financial Assets (Subtopic 610-20): Clarifying the Scope of Asset Derecognition Guidance and Accounting for Partial Sales of Non-financial Assets (Issued February 2017)
April 1, 2018The standard includes (i) clarification that non-financial assets within the scope of ASC 610-20 may include non-financial assets transferred within a legal entity to a counterparty; (ii) clarification that an entity should allocate consideration to each distinct asset by applying the standard in ASC 606 on allocating the transaction price to performance obligations; and (iii) a requirement for entities to derecognize a distinct non-financial asset or distinct in substance non-financial asset in a partial sale transaction when it does not have (or ceases to have) a controlling financial interest in the legal entity that holds the asset in accordance with ASC 610, and transfers control of the asset in accordance with ASC 606.The adoption of this standard did not have an impact on the consolidated financial statements and disclosures.
ASU 2017-01, Clarifying the Definition of a Business (Topic 805) (Issued January 2017)
April 1, 2018The standard provides guidance on evaluating whether transactions should be accounted for as acquisitions (or disposals) of assets or businesses. It amends ASC 805 to provide a more robust framework to use in determining when a set of assets and activities is a business.The adoption of this standard did not have an impact on the consolidated financial statements and disclosures.
ASU 2017-12, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities (Issued August 2017)
January 1, 2018The standard simplifies the application of hedge accounting and increases the transparency of the results of our hedging programs. The amendments better align an entity’s risk management objectives, activities and financial reporting for hedging relationships through changes to both the designation and measurement guidance for qualifying hedging relationships and the presentation of hedge results.We did not record a cumulative effect adjustment as we elected to de-designate and re-designate existing hedge accounting relationships at the adoption date.
ASU 2016-05, Effect of Derivative Contract Novations on Existing Hedge Accounting Relationships (Issued March 2016)
April 1, 2017
The standard addresses a lack of guidance related to the impact of derivative contract novations on existing hedge accounting relationships under Accounting Standards Codification Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging (ASC 815). The new guidance clarifies that a change in one of the parties (a novation) to a derivative contract that is part of an existing hedge accounting relationship under ASC 815 does not, in and of itself, require a de-designation of that hedge accounting relationship.
The adoption of this standard did not have an impact on the consolidated financial statements and disclosures.


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Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Recently Issued Accounting Standards
StandardAdoptionDescriptionDisclosure Impact
ASU 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting
(Issued March 2020)
April 1, 2020The standard provides transitional guidance and optional expedients and exceptions for applying generally accepted accounting principles to contract modifications and hedging relationships which reference LIBOR or another reference rate expected to be discontinued.The Company has evaluated the impact of this standard, noting that there is no impact to our current contracts or hedging relationships. The Company will monitor the impact on future transactions through December 31, 2022.
ASU 2018-17, Consolidation (Topic 810): Targeted Improvements to Related Party Guidance for Variable Interest Entities (Issued October 2018)
April 1, 2020This standard eliminates the requirement that entities consider indirect interests held through related parties under common control in their entirety when assessing whether a decision-making fee is a variable interest. Instead, the reporting entity must consider such indirect interests on a proportionate basis.The Company has evaluated the impact of this standard, noting that there is no impact to our current variable interests. We have updated our accounting policies to ensure appropriate treatment if these are entered into in the future. As such, there will not be a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.
ASU 2018-15, Intangibles—Goodwill and Other—Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Customer's Accounting for Implementation Costs Incurred in a Cloud Computing Arrangement That Is a Service Contract (Issued August 2018)
April 1, 2020This standard aligns the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred in a hosting arrangement that is a service contract with the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred to develop or obtain internal-use software (and hosting arrangements that include an internal-use software license). The accounting for the service element of a hosting arrangement that is a service contract is not affected.The Company has evaluated the impact of this standard, noting that we do not have these types of arrangements. We have updated our accounting policies to ensure appropriate treatment if these are entered into in the future. As such, there will not be a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.
ASU 2018-14, Compensation—Retirement Benefits—Defined Benefit Plans—General (Subtopic 715-20): Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Defined Benefit Plans (Issued August 2018)
April 1, 2020This standard changes disclosure requirements for employers that sponsor defined benefit pension or other postretirement plans. This update removes disclosures that are no longer considered cost beneficial, clarifies the specific requirements of disclosures, and adds disclosure requirements identified as relevant.The Company has evaluated the impact of this standard. We will update our pension and postretirement disclosure process accordingly, which will not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.
ASU 2017-04, Intangibles—Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment (Issued January 2017)
April 1, 2020This standard eliminates Step 2 from the goodwill impairment test. Instead, entities will record an impairment charge based on the excess of a reporting unit’s carrying amount over its fair value (i.e., measure the charge based on the current Step 1).The Company has evaluated the impact of this standard. We will update our goodwill impairment assessment process accordingly, which we do not expect to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.
ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments—Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments along with additional technical improvements and clarifications since issued (Issued June 2016)
April 1, 2020The standard provides financial statement users with more decision-useful information about expected credit losses on financial instruments and other commitments to extend credit held by a reporting entity at each reporting date. The “current expected credit loss” (CECL) model requires the Company to measure all expected credit losses for financial instruments held at the reporting date based on historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable supportable forecasts.The Company established a cross-functional project team to assess the impact of the standard. We will update our policies and processes for reserves against our financial instruments to factor in expected credit losses. This adoption will not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.
ASU 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes (Issued December 2019)
April 1, 2021The standard simplifies the accounting for income taxes by removing certain exceptions and improving the consistent application and simplification of GAAP.The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this standard.
ASU 2019-04, Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses, Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging, and Topic 825, Financial Instruments
VariousThe standard provides various codification updates and improvements to address comments received.The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this standard.

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Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2. REVENUE FROM CONTRACTS WITH CUSTOMERS
The Company's contracts with customers are comprised of purchase orders along with standard terms and conditions. These contracts with customers typically consist of the manufacture of products which represent single performance obligations that are satisfied upon transfer of control of the product to the customer at a point in time. Transfer of control is assessed based on alternative use of the products we produce and our enforceable right to payment for performance to date under the contract terms. Transfer of control and revenue recognition generally occur upon shipment or delivery of the product, which is when title, ownership, and risk of loss pass to the customer and is based on the applicable shipping terms. The shipping terms vary across all businesses and depend on the product, the country of origin, and the type of transportation (truck, train, or vessel). The length of payment terms can vary per contract, but none extend beyond one year. Revenue is recognized net of any volume rebates or other incentives.
Certain of our contracts contain take-or-pay clauses which allow us to recover an agreed upon penalty if a buyer does not purchase contractual minimums as defined in the underlying contract within a set timeframe, generally within one fiscal year. Additionally, certain of our contracts may contain incentive payments to our customers which are deferred and amortized as a reduction to the amount of revenue recorded on a straight-line basis over the term of these contracts.
We disaggregate revenue from contracts with customers on a geographic basis based on our segment view. This disaggregation also achieves the disclosure objective to depict how the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows are affected by economic factors. We manage our activities on the basis of geographical regions and are organized under four operating segments: North America, South America, Asia, and Europe. See Note 22 – Segment, Geographical Area, Major Customer and Major Supplier Information for further information about our segment revenue.
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Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
3. RESTRUCTURING AND IMPAIRMENT
"Restructuring and impairment, net" is reflected on our consolidated statement of operations and includes restructuring costs, impairments and other related expenses. As of March 31, 2020, $26 million is included in "Accrued expenses and other current liabilities" and the remaining is within "Other long–term liabilities" in our accompanying consolidated balance sheet.
Total restructuring liabilities
Other restructuring charges(1)
Total restructuring charges
Other impairments(2)
Total restructuring 
and impairments, net
Balance as of March 31, 2017$24  
Expenses19  9  28  6  34  
Cash payments(7) 
Balance as of March 31, 2018$36  
Expenses2    2    2  
Cash payments(16) 
Foreign currency remeasurement and other(3)
(5) 
Balance as of March 31, 2019$17  
Expenses25  12  37  6  43  
Cash payments(5) 
Foreign currency remeasurement and other(3)
(3) 
Balance as of March 31, 2020$34  
_________________________
(1)Other restructuring charges include expenses related to a restructuring activity that are not recorded through the restructuring liability, such as impairments and other non-cash expenses.
(2)Other impairment charges are not related to a restructuring activity.
(3)This primarily relates to the remeasurement of Brazilian real denominated restructuring liabilities.
Restructuring and impairment activities by segment are detailed below:
North America
North America recognized $1 million in restructuring expenses each of the fiscal years ended March 31, 2020 and 2019. North America recognized no restructuring expense during fiscal 2018. As of March 31, 2020 and 2019, the restructuring liability for the North America region totaled $1 million.
North America recognized $4 million and $3 million in impairment charges on intangible software assets unrelated to restructuring during the fiscal years ended March 31, 2020 and 2018, respectively. North America recognized no impairment charges during fiscal 2019.
Europe
Europe recognized $33 million and $25 million in restructuring expenses related to the closure of certain non-core operations during the fiscal years ended March 31, 2020 and 2018, respectively. Europe recognized no restructuring expense during fiscal 2019. As of March 31, 2020 and 2019, the restructuring liability for the Europe region totaled $21 million and $3 million, respectively.
During fiscal 2018, Europe recognized $2 million in asset impairments unrelated to restructuring. No impairment was recognized for Europe during fiscal 2020 or fiscal 2019.
Asia
Asia recognized $2 million and $1 million in impairment charges on certain long-lived assets unrelated to restructuring in the fiscal years ended March 31, 2020 and 2018, respectively. No impairment was recognized for Asia during fiscal 2019.
South America
In fiscal years ended March 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, South America recognized restructuring expenses of $3 million, $1 million, and $3 million, respectively, related to the closure of smelter facilities. As of March 31, 2020 and 2019, the restructuring liability for the South America region totaled $12 million and $13 million, respectively.
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Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
4. ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
"Accounts receivable, net" consists of the following.
 March 31,
in millions20202019
Trade accounts receivable$944  $1,332  
Other accounts receivable131  92  
Accounts receivable — third parties1,075  1,424  
Allowance for doubtful accounts — third parties(8) (7) 
Accounts receivable, net — third parties$1,067  $1,417  
Accounts receivable, net — related parties$164  $164  
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
As of March 31, 2020 and 2019, our allowance for doubtful accounts represented approximately 1% of gross "Accounts receivable — third parties" (exclusive of "Accounts receivable, net — related parties").
Activity in the allowance for doubtful accounts is as follows.
in millionsBalance at
Beginning
of Period
Additions
Charged to
Expense
Accounts
Recovered/
(Written-Off)
Foreign
Exchange
and Other
Balance at
End of Period
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2020$7  $3  $(1) $(1) $8  
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 20197        7  
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 20186  1      7  
Factoring of Trade Receivables
We factor trade receivables (collectively, we refer to these as "factoring") based on local cash needs, as well as attempting to balance the timing of cash flows of trade payables and receivables. Factored invoices are not included in our consolidated balance sheets when we do not retain a financial or legal interest. If a financial or legal interest is retained, we classify these factorings as secured borrowings.
The following tables summarize amounts relating to our factoring activities.
Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions202020192018
Factoring expense$41  $46  $39  

 March 31,
in millions20202019
Factored receivables outstanding$430  $500  

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Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
5. INVENTORIES
"Inventories" consists of the following.
 March 31,
in millions20202019
Finished goods$398  $354  
Work in process643  684  
Raw materials192  254  
Supplies176  168  
Inventories$1,409  $1,460  

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Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
6. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
"Property, plant and equipment, net" consists of the following.
 March 31,
in millions20202019
Land and property rights$150  $155  
Buildings1,300  1,279  
Machinery and equipment4,430  4,290  
5,880  5,724  
Accumulated depreciation and amortization(2,968) (2,731) 
2,912  2,993  
Construction in progress668  397  
Property, plant and equipment, net(1)
$3,580  $3,390  
_________________________
(1)Included in "Property, plant and equipment, net" are $3 million of finance leases as of March 31, 2020 and 2019. This balance of finance leases represents gross finance leases of $9 million and $10 million, net of accumulated amortization of $6 million and $7 million, as of March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Of the $9 million and $10 million of gross finance leases as of March 31, 2020 and 2019, $7 million and $8 million were included in "Machinery and equipment", respectively. The remainder is included in "Buildings" and "Land and property rights."
For the fiscal years ended March 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, we capitalized $14 million, $3 million, and $1 million of interest related to construction of property, plant and equipment and intangibles under development, respectively.
Depreciation expense related to "Property, plant and equipment, net" is shown in the table below.
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions202020192018
Depreciation expense related to "Property, plant and equipment, net"$298  $286  $290  
 Asset impairments
Impairment charges are recorded in "Restructuring and impairment, net." See Note 3 – Restructuring and Impairment for additional information.
Asset Retirement Obligations
An asset retirement obligation is recognized in the period in which sufficient information exists to determine the fair value of the liability along with a corresponding increase to the carrying amount of the related property, plant and equipment which is then depreciated over its useful life. As of March 31, 2020, our asset retirement obligations relate to sites, primarily in North America and Asia, that have government imposed or other legal remediation obligations. The following is a summary of our asset retirement obligation activity. The current portion of the period end balances is included in "Accrued expenses and other current liabilities" in our consolidated balance sheet, while the long-term portion is included in "Other long–term liabilities." As of March 31, 2020, $16 million was included in "Other long–term liabilities."
in millionsBalance at Beginning of PeriodObligations IncurredAccretionForeign Exchange & Other AdjustmentsSettlementsBalance at End of Period
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2020
$29  $  $  $(1) $(4) $24  
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2019
33  1    (5)   29  
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2018
15  17    1    33  

78

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
7. GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS
There were no changes to the gross carrying amount or accumulated impairment of goodwill during the fiscal years ended March 31, 2020 and 2019. The following table summarizes "Goodwill."
 
March 31, 2020March 31, 2019
in millionsGross Carrying AmountAccumulated ImpairmentNet Carrying ValueGross Carrying AmountAccumulated ImpairmentNet Carrying Value
North America$1,145  $(860) $285  $1,145  $(860) $285  
Europe511  (330) 181  511  (330) 181  
South America291  (150) 141  291  (150) 141  
$1,947  $(1,340) $607  $1,947  $(1,340) $607  
The components of "Intangible assets, net" are as follows.
 March 31, 2020March 31, 2019
in millionsWeighted Average LifeGross Carrying AmountAccumulated AmortizationNet Carrying AmountGross Carrying AmountAccumulated AmortizationNet Carrying Amount
Tradenames20.0 years$142  $(91) $51  $142  $(84) $58  
Technology and software9.8 years396  (308) 88  387  (276) 111  
Customer-related intangible assets20.0 years446  (286) 160  447  (265) 182  
15.9 years$984  $(685) $299  $976  $(625) $351  
In the fiscal years ended March 31, 2020 and March 31, 2018, we recorded impairment charges related to certain intangible software assets. In the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019, we did not record any impairments. All intangible assets are amortized using the straight-line method. For additional information refer to Note 3 – Restructuring and Impairment.
Amortization expense related to "Intangible assets, net" is as follows.
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions202020192018
Amortization expense related to intangible assets included in "Depreciation and amortization"$63  $64  $64  
Estimated total amortization expense related to "Intangible assets, net" for each of the five succeeding fiscal years is as follows (in millions). Actual amounts may differ from these estimates due to such factors as customer turnover, raw material consumption patterns, impairments, additional intangible asset acquisitions and other events.

Fiscal Year Ending March 31, 
2021$62  
202259  
202347  
202441  
202541  

79

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
8. CONSOLIDATION
Variable Interest Entities (VIE)
The entity that has a controlling financial interest in a VIE is referred to as the primary beneficiary and consolidates the VIE. An entity is deemed to have a controlling financial interest and is the primary beneficiary of a VIE if it has both the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance and an obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits that could potentially be significant to the VIE. 
Logan Aluminum Inc. (Logan) is a consolidated joint venture in which we hold 40% ownership. Our joint venture partner is Tri-Arrows Aluminum Inc. (Tri-Arrows). Logan processes metal received from Novelis and Tri-Arrows and charges the respective partner a fee to cover expenses. Logan is a thinly capitalized variable interest entity ("VIE") that relies on the regular reimbursement of costs and expenses from its investors, Novelis and Tri-Arrows, to fund its operations. Novelis is considered the primary beneficiary and consolidates Logan since it has the power to direct activities that most significantly impact Logan's economic performance, an obligation to absorb expected losses, and the right to receive benefits that could potentially be significant.
Other than the contractually required reimbursements, we do not provide other material support to Logan. Logan's creditors do not have recourse to our general credit. There are significant other assets used in the operations of Logan that are not part of the joint venture, as they are directly owned and consolidated by Novelis or Tri-Arrows.
The following table summarizes the carrying value and classification of assets and liabilities owned by the Logan joint venture and consolidated in our consolidated balance sheets.
March 31,
in millions20202019
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$8  $1  
Accounts receivable, net24  40  
Inventories92  72  
Prepaid expenses and other current assets3  1  
Total current assets127  114  
Property, plant and equipment, net19  29  
Goodwill12  12  
Deferred income tax assets76  64  
Other long–term assets35  27  
Total assets$269  $246  
LIABILITIES
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable$38  $43  
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities30  21  
Total current liabilities68  64  
Accrued postretirement benefits287  245  
Other long–term liabilities3  1  
Total liabilities$358  $310  

80

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
9. INVESTMENT IN AND ADVANCES TO NON-CONSOLIDATED AFFILIATES AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements are transactions and balances arising from business we conducted with our equity method non-consolidated affiliates.
Alunorf
Aluminium Norf GmbH (Alunorf) is a joint venture investment between Novelis Deutschland GmbH, a subsidiary of Novelis, and Hydro Aluminum Deutschland GmbH (Hydro). Each of the parties to the joint venture holds a 50% interest in the equity, profits and losses, shareholder voting, management control and rights to use the production capacity of the facility. Alunorf tolls aluminum and charges the respective partner a fee to cover the associated expenses.
UAL
Ulsan Aluminum, Ltd. (UAL) is a joint venture investment between Novelis Korea Ltd., a subsidiary of Novelis, and Kobe. UAL is a thinly capitalized VIE that relies on the regular reimbursement of costs and expenses from its investors, Novelis and Kobe. UAL is controlled by an equally represented Board of Directors in which neither entity has sole decision-making ability regarding production operations or other significant decisions. Furthermore, neither entity has the ability to take the majority share of production or associated costs over the life of the joint venture. Our risk of loss is limited to the carrying value of our investment in and inventory-related receivables from UAL. UAL's creditors do not have recourse to our general credit. Therefore, UAL is accounted for as an equity method investment, and Novelis is not considered the primary beneficiary. UAL currently produces flat rolled aluminum products exclusively for Novelis and Kobe. As of March 31, 2020, Novelis and Kobe both hold 50% interests in UAL.
AluInfra
In July 2018, Novelis Switzerland SA (Novelis Switzerland), a subsidiary of Novelis, entered into definitive agreements with Constellium, an unrelated party, under which Novelis Switzerland and Constellium jointly own and operate AluInfra Services SA (AluInfra), the joint venture investment, which provides utility services to each partner. Each of the parties to the joint venture holds a 50% interest in the equity, profits and losses, shareholder voting, management control, and rights to use the facility.
The following table summarizes the ownership structure and our ownership percentage of the non-consolidated affiliates in which we have investments in as of March 31, 2020 and 2019, and which we account for using the equity method.
Affiliate NameOwnership StructureOwnership Percentage
Aluminium Norf GmbH (Alunorf)Corporation50%
Ulsan Aluminum, Ltd. (UAL)Corporation50%
AluInfra Services SA (AluInfra)Corporation50%
The following table summarizes the assets, liabilities and equity of our equity method affiliates in the aggregate as of March 31, 2020 and 2019.
 March 31,
in millions20202019
Assets:
Current assets$389  $369  
Non-current assets801  835  
Total assets$1,190  $1,204  
Liabilities:
Current liabilities$236  $234  
Non-current liabilities358  345  
Total liabilities$594  $579  
Equity:
Total equity$596  $625  
Total liabilities and equity$1,190  $1,204  
81

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
As of March 31, 2020, the investment in Alunorf exceeded our proportionate share of the net assets by $412 million. The difference is primarily related to the unamortized fair value adjustments that are included in our investment balance as a result of the acquisition of Novelis by Hindalco in 2007.
As of March 31, 2020, the investment in UAL exceeded our proportionate share of the net assets by $45 million. The difference primarily relates to goodwill.
The following table summarizes the results of operations of our equity method affiliates in the aggregate for the years ending March 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018 as well as the nature and amounts of significant transactions that we had with our non-consolidated affiliates. The amounts in the table below are disclosed at 100% of the operating results of these affiliates.
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions202020192018
Net sales$1,178  $1,245  $866  
Costs and expenses related to net sales1,160  1,222  854  
Income tax provision5  7  3  
Net income$13  $16  $9  
Purchase of tolling services from Alunorf$243  $254  $245  
Related Party Transactions
Included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements are transactions and balances arising from business we conduct with our non-consolidated affiliates and our indirect parent company, Hindalco.
The following table describes the period-end account balances, shown as related party balances in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. We had no other material related party balances with non-consolidated affiliates.
 March 31,
in millions20202019
Accounts receivable — related parties$164  $164  
Accounts payable — related parties176  175  
Transactions with Hindalco
We occasionally have related party transactions with Hindalco. During the years ended March 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, we recorded "Net sales" of less than $1 million between Novelis and Hindalco related primarily to sales of equipment and other services. As of March 31, 2020 and 2019, there were $1 million and less than $1 million of "Accounts receivable — related parties" net of "Accounts payable — related parties" outstanding related to transactions with Hindalco, respectively. During the years ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, Novelis purchased less than $1 million in raw materials from Hindalco.
82

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
10. LEASES
We lease certain land, buildings and equipment under noncancelable operating lease arrangements and certain office space under finance lease arrangements. Upon adoption of ASC 842, we elected the following practical expedients:
Non-lease components: Leases that contain non-lease components (primarily equipment maintenance) are accounted for as a single component and recorded on the consolidated balance sheet for certain asset classes including real estate and certain equipment. Non-lease components include, but are not limited to, common area maintenance, service arrangements, and supply agreements.
Package of practical expedients: We will not reassess whether any expired or existing contracts are leases or contain leases, the lease classification for any expired or existing leases or any initial direct costs for any expired or existing leases as of the transition date.
Additional transition method: We adopted the standard using a modified retrospective approach, applying the standard's transition provisions at the beginning of the period of adoption and maintain previous disclosure requirements for comparative periods.
We used the following policies and/or assumptions in evaluating our lease population:
Lease determination: Novelis considers a contract to be or to contain a lease if the contract conveys the right to control the use of identified property, plant, or equipment (an identified asset) for a period of time in exchange for consideration.
Discount rate: When our lease contracts do not provide a readily determinable implicit rate, we use the estimated incremental borrowing rate based on information available at the inception of the lease. The discount rate is determined by region and asset class.
Variable payments: Novelis includes payments that are based on an index or rate within the calculation of right of use leased assets and lease liabilities, initially measured at the lease commencement date. Other variable lease payments include, but are not limited to, maintenance, service, and supply costs. These costs are disclosed as a component of total lease costs.
Purchase options: Certain leases include options to purchase the leased property. The depreciable life of assets and leasehold improvements are limited by the expected lease term, unless there is a transfer of title or purchase option reasonably certain of exercise.
Renewal options: Most leases include one or more options to renew, with renewal terms that can extend the lease term from one or more years. The exercise of lease renewal options is at our sole discretion.
Residual value guarantees, restrictions, or covenants: Our lease agreements do not contain any material residual value guarantees or material restrictive covenants.
Short-term leases: Leases with an initial term of 12 months or less are not recorded on the balance sheet; we recognize lease expense for these leases on a straight-line basis over the lease term and expense the associated operating lease costs to "Selling, general, and administrative expenses" on the consolidated statement of operations.
The table below presents the classification of leasing assets and liabilities (in millions).
LeasesConsolidated Balance Sheet ClassificationMarch 31, 2020
Assets
Operating lease right-of-use assetsOther long–term assets$95  
Finance lease assets(1)
Property, plant and equipment, net3  
Total lease assets$98  
Liabilities
Current:
Operating lease liabilitiesAccrued expenses and other current liabilities$25  
Finance lease liabilitiesCurrent portion of long–term debt  
Long-term:
Operating lease liabilitiesOther long–term liabilities70  
Finance lease liabilitiesLong–term debt, net of current portion1  
Total lease liabilities$96  
____________________
(1)Finance lease assets are recorded net of accumulated depreciation of $6 million as of March 31, 2020.
83

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The table below presents the classification of lease related expenses or income as reported on the consolidated statements of operations (in millions). Amortization of and interest on liabilities related to finance leases were less than $1 million during the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020. Sublease income was $1 million during the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020.
Expense TypeIncome Statement Classification
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2020
Operating lease costs(1)
Selling, general and administrative expenses$51  
____________________
(1)Operating lease costs include short-term leases and variable lease costs.
Future minimum lease payments as of March 31, 2020, for our operating and capital leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease term in excess of one year are as follows (in millions).
Fiscal Year Ending March 31,
Operating
leases(1)
Finance
leases(2)
2021$28  $  
202221    
202316    
202414    
202510    
Thereafter19  1  
Total minimum lease payments108  1  
Less: interest13    
Present value of lease liabilities$95  $1  
____________________
(1)Operating lease payments related to options to extend lease terms that are reasonably certain of being exercised are immaterial and we do not have leases signed but not yet commenced as of March 31, 2020.
(2)Finance lease payments related to options to extend lease terms that are reasonably certain of being exercised are immaterial and we do not have leases signed but not yet commenced as of March 31, 2020.
The following table presents the weighted-average remaining lease term and discount rates.
As of
March 31, 2020
Weighted-average remaining lease term (years)
Operating leases6.3
Finance leases6.0
Weighted-average discount rate
Operating leases3.74 %
Finance leases3.17 %
The following table presents supplemental information on our operating leases for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020 (in millions). Operating and financing cash flows from finance leases were immaterial for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020. Leased assets obtained in exchange for new operating and financing lease liabilities were $14 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020, individually and in the aggregate.
Supplemental information
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2020
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities
Operating cash flows from operating leases$64  
84

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Disclosure related to periods prior to adoption of the new lease standard
Rent expense included in our consolidated statements of operations was $27 million for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2019 and March 31, 2018. Future minimum lease payments as of March 31, 2019, for our operating and capital leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease term in excess of one year are as follows (in millions).
Fiscal Year Ending March 31,Operating leasesCapital lease obligations
2020$29  $  
202122    
202216    
202312    
202410    
Thereafter17  1  
Total minimum lease payments$106  $1  
Less: interest portion on capital lease  
Principal obligation on capital leases$1  

85

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
11. ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES
"Accrued expenses and other current liabilities" consists of the following.
 March 31,
in millions20202019
Accrued compensation and benefits$191  $229  
Accrued interest payable50  44  
Accrued income taxes67  51  
Other current liabilities305  292  
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities$613  $616  

86

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
12. DEBT
Debt consists of the following.
 March 31, 2020March 31, 2019
in millions
Interest Rates(1)
Principal
Unamortized Carrying Value Adjustments(2)
Carrying ValuePrincipal
Unamortized Carrying Value Adjustments(2)
Carrying Value
Short term borrowings3.53 %$176  $  $176  $39  $  $39  
ABL Revolver1.87 %555    555        
Novelis Inc.
Floating rate Term Loan Facility, due June 20223.30 %1,742  (22) 1,720  1,760  (33) 1,727  
Novelis Corporation
4.75% Senior Notes, due January 20304.75 %1,600  (32) 1,568        
5.875% Senior Notes, due September 20265.875 %1,500  (16) 1,484  1,500  (19) 1,481  
6.25% Senior Notes, due August 20246.25 %      1,150  (14) 1,136  
Novelis Korea Limited
Bank loans, due through September 20201.75 %      1    1  
Novelis China
Bank loans, due through June 2027 (CNY 254 million)4.90 %36    36        
Other
Finance lease obligations and other debt, due through December 20265.16 %1    1  2    2  
Total debt $5,610  $(70) $5,540  $4,452  $(66) $4,386  
Less: Short term borrowings(176)   (176) (39)   (39) 
Current portion of long-term debt(19)   (19) (19)   (19) 
Long-term debt, net of current portion$5,415  $(70) $5,345  $4,394  $(66) $4,328  
 _________________________
(1)Interest rates are the stated rates of interest on the debt instrument (not the effective interest rate) as of March 31, 2020, and therefore, exclude the effects of accretion/amortization of fair value adjustments as a result of purchase accounting in connection with Hindalco's purchase of Novelis and accretion/amortization of debt issuance costs related to refinancing transactions and additional borrowings. We present stated rates of interest because they reflect the rate at which cash will be paid for future debt service.
(2)Amounts include unamortized debt issuance costs, fair value adjustments and debt discounts.
Principal repayment requirements for our total debt over the next five years and thereafter using exchange rates as of March 31, 2020 for our debt denominated in foreign currencies are as follows (in millions). 
As of March 31, 2020
Amount
Short-term borrowings and current portion of long term debt due within one year$195  
2 years19  
3 years1,708  
4 years4  
5 years561  
Thereafter3,123  
Total debt$5,610  
Short Term Borrowings
As of March 31, 2020, our short-term borrowings totaled $176 million consisting of $98 million in Korea loans (KRW 120 million), $60 million in Brazil loans (BRL 312 million), $17 million in China loans (CNY 120 million), and $1 million in other loans.
87

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Senior Secured Credit Facilities
As of March 31, 2020, the senior secured credit facilities consisted of (i) a $1,742 million five-year secured term loan credit facility ("Term Loan Facility") and (ii) a $1,500 million asset based loan facility ("ABL Revolver"). The senior secured credit facilities contain various affirmative covenants, including covenants with respect to our financial statements, litigation and other reporting requirements, insurance, payment of taxes, employee benefits and (subject to certain limitations) causing new subsidiaries to pledge collateral and guaranty our obligations. The senior secured credit facilities also include various customary negative covenants and events of default, including limitations on our ability to (1) incur additional indebtedness, (2) sell certain assets, (3) enter into sale and leaseback transactions, (4) make investments, loans and advances, (5) pay dividends or returns of capital and distributions beyond certain amounts, (6) engage in mergers, amalgamations or consolidations, (7) engage in certain transactions with affiliates, and (8) prepay certain indebtedness. The Term Loan Facility also contains a financial maintenance covenant that prohibits Novelis' senior secured net leverage ratio as of the last day of each fiscal quarter period as measured on a rolling four quarter basis from exceeding 3.50 to 1.00, subject to customary equity cure rights. The senior secured credit facilities include a cross-default provision under which lenders could accelerate repayment of the loans if a payment or non-payment default arises under any other indebtedness with an aggregate principal amount of more than $100 million (or, in the case of the Term Loan Facility, under the ABL Revolver regardless of the amount outstanding). Substantially all of our assets are pledged as collateral under the senior secured credit facilities.
The credit agreement for the ABL Revolver contains a standard representation and warranty that no event since March 31, 2018 has occurred that has had, or is reasonably expected to have a material adverse effect (as defined therein), which is made on each borrowing under the facility. The credit agreement for the Term Loan Facility and Short Term Credit Agreement each contain a similar standard representation that was brought down on funding on April 14, 2020, but there is no ongoing bring down of such representation since there are no additional borrowings allowed under such facility.
Existing Term Loan Facility
The existing loans under our Term Loan Facility mature on June 2, 2022 and are subject to 0.25% quarterly amortization payments. The existing loans under the Term Loan Facility accrue interest at LIBOR plus 1.85%.
We will be required to apply the net cash proceeds we receive on or after the borrowing date from asset sales required by regulatory approvals related to the acquisition of Aleris to repay the existing and incremental term loans under the Term Loan Facility and the short term loans under the Short Term Credit Agreement (as defined below) on a pro rata basis, subject to certain reinvestment rights. The Term Loan Facility requires customary mandatory prepayments with excess cash flow, other asset sale proceeds, casualty event proceeds and proceeds of prohibited indebtedness, all subject to customary reinvestment rights and exceptions. The loans under the Term Loan Facility may be prepaid, in full or in part, at any time at Novelis' election without penalty or premium. The Term Loan Facility allows for additional term loans to be issued in an amount not to exceed $300 million (or its equivalent in other currencies) plus an unlimited amount if, after giving effect to such incurrences on a pro forma basis, the secured net leverage ratio does not exceed 3.00 to 1.00. The lenders under the Term Loan Facility have not committed to provide any such additional term loans other than the commitments under the 2020 Term Loan Increase Joinder Amendment, as described below.
As of March 31, 2020, we were in compliance with the covenants for our Term Loan Facility.
Term Loan Facility Amendments
In November 2018, we amended the existing Term Loan Facility to, among other things, allow the incurrence of the financing to close the Aleris acquisition. We also secured financing by entering into a commitment letter with certain financial institutions, which was subsequently superseded by the agreements detailed below.
In December 2018, we entered into an increase joinder amendment (the "2018 Term Loan Increase Joinder Amendment") to our existing Term Loan Facility. The 2018 Term Loan Increase Joinder Amendment governed the commitments of certain financial institutions to provide, subject to closing conditions, up to $775 million of incremental term loans under the terms of our existing term loan credit agreement. The commitments under the 2018 Term Loan Increase Joinder Amendment expired in January 2020.
In February 2020, we entered into an amendment (the "Term Loan Amendment") to our Term Loan Facility. The Term Loan Amendment modifies the Term Loan Facility by amending certain terms to facilitate the closing of the acquisition of Aleris.
88

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
In February 2020, we entered into an increase joinder amendment (the "2020 Term Loan Increase Joinder Amendment") to our existing Term Loan Facility. The 2020 Term Loan Increase Joinder Amendment provides commitments of certain financial institutions to provide up to $775 million of incremental term loans under our existing term loan credit agreement. These commitments replaced the commitments of the same financial institutions under the 2018 Term Loan Increase Joinder Amendment. The proceeds of the incremental term loans were used to pay a portion of the consideration payable in the acquisition of Aleris, which closed on April 14, 2020, as well as fees and expenses related to the acquisition, the incremental term loans, and short term loans. The incremental term loans will mature five years after the date on which they are borrowed, subject to 0.25% quarterly amortization payments. The incremental term loans will, once borrowed, accrue interest at LIBOR (as defined in the Term Loan Facility) plus 1.75%. The incremental term loans will be subject to the same voluntary and mandatory prepayment provisions, affirmative and negative covenants and events of default as those applicable to the existing term loans outstanding under our Term Loan Facility. The incremental term loans will be guaranteed by the same entities that have provided guarantees under our Term Loan Facility and secured on a pari passu basis with our existing term loans by security interests in substantially all of the assets of the Company and the guarantors, subject to our existing intercreditor agreement.
ABL Revolver
In April 2019, we entered into an amendment (the "ABL Amendment") to our existing ABL Revolver. Pursuant to the terms of the amendment, the commitments under the pre-existing $1 billion facility increased by $500 million on October 15, 2019. Aleris and certain of its U.S. subsidiaries will become borrowers under the ABL Revolver upon closing of the acquisition, and the ABL Amendment includes additional changes to facilitate the acquisition of Aleris (including permitting borrowings under the Short Term Credit Agreement) and the inclusion of certain Aleris assets in the borrowing base following the acquisition, if consummated. The ABL Amendment also includes additional changes to increase our operating flexibility.
In December 2019, at the request of our lenders, we entered into another amendment to our ABL Revolver to add contractual terms required under the United States regulation commonly known as "QFC Stay Rules" to be included in certain contracts entered into by systematically important banking organization.
In February 2020, we entered into an amendment to our ABL Revolver to amend certain terms of the ABL Revolver to facilitate the closing of the previously announced acquisition of Aleris.
The ABL Revolver is a senior secured revolver bearing an interest rate of LIBOR plus a spread of 1.25% to 1.75% or a prime rate plus a prime spread of 0.25% to 0.75% based on excess availability. The ABL Revolver has a provision that allows the facility to be increased by an additional $750 million, subject to lenders providing commitments for the increase. The ABL Revolver has various customary covenants including maintaining a specified minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.25 to 1 if excess availability is less than the greater of (1) $115 million and (2) 10% of the lesser of (a) the maximum size of the ABL Revolver and (b) the borrowing base. The ABL Revolver matures on April 15, 2024; provided that, (1) in the event that the Short Term Credit Agreement (as defined below) is outstanding (and not refinanced with a maturity date later than October 15, 2024) 60 days prior to its maturity then the ABL Revolver will mature 60 days prior to the maturity date of the Short Term Credit Agreement (provided further that if we have commenced a refinancing of the Short Term Credit Agreement that is continuing on and after the date that is 60 days prior to the maturity date of the Short Term Credit Agreement and that is scheduled to be and is capable of being completed prior to the date that is 45 days prior to the maturity date of the Short Term Credit Agreement, then the ABL Revolver will mature 45 days prior to the maturity date of the Short Term Credit Agreement); and (2) in the event that the Term Loan Facility or certain other indebtedness is outstanding 90 days prior to its maturity (and not refinanced with a maturity date later than October 15, 2024, then the ABL Revolver will mature 90 days prior to the maturity date for such other indebtedness, as applicable; unless excess availability under the ABL Revolver is at least (i) 20% of the lesser of (x) the total ABL Revolver commitment and (y) the then applicable borrowing base and (ii) 15% of the lesser of (x) the total ABL Revolver commitment and (y) the then applicable borrowing base, and a minimum fixed charge ratio test of at least 1.25 to 1 is met.
As of March 31, 2020, we were in compliance with the covenants for our ABL Revolver.
As of March 31, 2020, we had $555 million in borrowings under our ABL revolver. We utilized $18 million of our ABL for letters of credit. We had availability of $186 million on the ABL Revolver, including $107 million of remaining availability which can be utilized for letters of credit.
89

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Short Term Credit Facility
In February 2020, we entered into a short term credit agreement (the "Short Term Credit Agreement"). The Short Term Credit Agreement provides commitments of certain financial institutions to provide, subject to closing conditions (including the concurrent closing of our acquisition of Aleris), up to $1.1 billion of short term loans for purposes of funding a portion of the consideration payable in connection with the acquisition of Aleris, which closed on April 14, 2020, or repaying certain indebtedness of Aleris and its subsidiaries. These commitments replaced the commitments of the same financial institutions under the prior $1.5 billion Short Term Credit Agreement entered into in December 2018, which expired in January 2020. The short term loans, once borrowed, will be unsecured, will mature one year from the date on which they are borrowed, will not be subject to any amortization payments, and will accrue interest at LIBOR (as defined in the Short Term Credit Agreement) plus 0.95%. The short term loans will be guaranteed by the same entities that have provided guarantees under the Term Loan Facility and ABL Revolver.
The Short Term Credit Agreement contains voluntary prepayment provisions, affirmative and negative covenants and events of default substantially similar to those under the Term Loan Facility, other than changes to reflect the unsecured nature of the short term loans.
We will be required to apply the net cash proceeds we receive from any debt and equity raised on or after the borrowing date to repay the short term loans, subject to certain exceptions. We will be required to apply the net cash proceeds we receive on or after the borrowing date from asset sales required by regulatory approvals related to the acquisition of Aleris to repay the short term loans, the incremental term loans and the existing term loans on a pro rata basis, subject to certain reinvestment rights. We will be required to apply the net cash proceeds we receive from any other asset sales, casualty losses, or condemnations on or after the borrowing date to repay short term loans, subject to certain reinvestment rights and exceptions, but only to the extent any funds remain after making any mandatory prepayments owed under the Term Loan Facility, as amended, and the agreement governing our ABL Revolver.
Senior Notes
On September 14, 2016, Novelis Corporation, an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Novelis Inc., issued $1.5 billion in aggregate principal amount of 5.875% Senior Notes Due 2026 (the “2026 Senior Notes”). The 2026 Senior Notes are subject to semi-annual interest payments and mature on September 30, 2026.
In January 2020, Novelis Corporation issued $1.6 billion in aggregate principal amount of 4.75% Senior Notes due 2030 (the "2030 Senior Notes" together with the 2026 Senior Notes, the "Senior Notes"). The proceeds were used to refinance all of Novelis Corporation's 6.25% Senior Notes due 2024 and the remainder was utilized to pay a portion of the consideration for the acquisition of Aleris, which closed on April 14, 2020. The 2030 Senior Notes are subject to semi-annual interest payments and mature on January 30, 2030. We incurred $32 million in debt issuance costs related to the issuance of the 2030 Senior Notes, which will be amortized as an increase to "Interest expense and amortization of debt issuance costs" over the term of the note.
As a result of this refinancing as well as the expiration of our 2018 Term Loan Increase Joinder Amendment and Short Term Credit Agreement, we recorded $71 million of "Loss on extinguishment of debt" on our consolidated statement of operations for fiscal 2020.
The Senior Notes are guaranteed, jointly and severally, on a senior unsecured basis, by Novelis Inc. and certain of its subsidiaries. The Senior Notes contain customary covenants and events of default that will limit our ability and, in certain instances, the ability of certain of our subsidiaries to (1) incur additional debt and provide additional guarantees, (2) pay dividends or return capital beyond certain amounts and make other restricted payments, (3) create or permit certain liens, (4) make certain asset sales, (5) use the proceeds from the sales of assets and subsidiary stock, (6) create or permit restrictions on the ability of certain of Novelis' subsidiaries to pay dividends or make other distributions to Novelis, (7) engage in certain transactions with affiliates, (8) enter into sale and leaseback transactions, (9) designate subsidiaries as unrestricted subsidiaries and (10) consolidate, merge or transfer all or substantially all of our assets and the assets of certain of our subsidiaries. During any future period in which either Standard & Poor's Ratings Group, Inc. or Moody's Investors Service, Inc. have assigned an investment grade credit rating to the Senior Notes and no default or event of default under the indenture has occurred and is continuing, most of the covenants will be suspended. The Senior Notes include a cross-acceleration event of default triggered if any other indebtedness with an aggregate principal amount of more than $100 million is (1) accelerated prior to its maturity or (2) not repaid at its maturity. The Senior Notes also contain customary call protection provisions for our bondholders that extend through September 2024 for the 2026 Senior Notes and January 2028 for the 2030 Senior Notes.
As of March 31, 2020, we were in compliance with the covenants for our Senior Notes.
China Bank Loans
In September 2019, we entered into a credit agreement with the Bank of China to provide up to $75 million in unsecured loans to support previously announced capital expansion projects in China.
90

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
13. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
The Company's board of directors has authorized long term incentive plans (LTIPs), under which Hindalco stock appreciation rights (Hindalco SARs), Novelis stock appreciation rights (Novelis SARs), phantom restricted stock units (RSUs), and Novelis Performance Units (Novelis PUs) are granted to certain executive officers and key employees.
The Hindalco SARs vest at the rate of 33% per year, subject to the achievement of an annual performance target. Fiscal year ended March 31, 2012 through fiscal year ended March 31, 2016 SARs expire in May of the seventh year from the original grant date, while fiscal 2017 and onwards SARs expire seven years from their original grant date. The performance criterion for vesting of the Hindalco SARs is based on the actual overall Novelis operating EBITDA compared to the target established and approved each fiscal year. The minimum threshold for vesting each year is 75% of each annual target operating EBITDA. Given that the performance criterion is based on an earnings target in a future period for each fiscal year, the grant date of the awards for accounting purposes is generally not established until the performance criterion has been defined.
Each Hindalco SAR is to be settled in cash based on the difference between the market value of one Hindalco share on the date of grant and the market value on the date of exercise. Each Novelis SAR is to be settled in cash based on the difference between the fair value of one Novelis phantom share on the original date of grant and the fair value of a phantom share on the date of the exercise. The amount of cash paid to settle Hindalco SARs and Novelis SARs is limited to three times the target payout, depending on the plan year. The Hindalco SARs and Novelis SARs do not transfer any shareholder rights in Hindalco or Novelis to a participant. The Hindalco SARs and Novelis SARs are classified as liability awards and are remeasured at fair value each reporting period until the SARs are settled.
In May 2016, the Company's board of directors approved the issuance of Novelis PUs which have a fixed $100 value per unit and will vest in full three years from the grant date, subject to specific performance criteria compared to the established target. We made a voluntary offer to the participants with outstanding Novelis SARs granted for fiscal years 2012 through 2016 to exchange their Novelis SARs for an equivalently valued number of Novelis PUs. The voluntary exchange resulted in 1,054,662 Novelis SARs being modified into PUs which are not based on Novelis' nor Hindalco's fair values and are accounted for outside the scope of ASC 718, Compensation - Stock Compensation. This exchange was accounted for as a modification. There were 33,393 of Novelis SARs that remain outstanding as of March 31, 2020.
The RSUs are based on Hindalco's stock price. The RSUs vest either in full three years from the grant date or 33% per year over three years, subject to continued employment with the Company, but are not subject to performance criteria. Each RSU is to be settled in cash equal to the market value of one Hindalco share. The payout on the RSUs is limited to three times the market value of one Hindalco share measured on the original date of grant. The RSUs are classified as liability awards and expensed over the requisite service period (three years) based on the Hindalco stock price as of each balance sheet date.
Total compensation expense related to Hindalco SARs, Novelis SARs, and RSUs under the plans for the respective periods is presented in the table below. These amounts are included in "Selling, general and administrative expenses" in our consolidated statements of operations. As the performance criteria for fiscal years 2021, 2022, and 2023 have not yet been established, measurement periods for Hindalco SARs and Novelis SARs relating to those periods have not yet commenced. As a result, only compensation expense for vested and current year Hindalco SARs and Novelis SARs has been recorded.
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions202020192018
Total compensation expense$(1) $17  $21  
The table below shows the RSUs activity for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020.
Number of RSUsGrant Date
Fair Value
(in Indian
Rupees)
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value (USD
in millions)
RSUs outstanding as of March 31, 20195,306,623  179.27  $16  
Granted2,685,744  198.88    
Exercised(3,069,299) 152.62  9  
Forfeited/Cancelled(175,752) 207.55    
RSUs outstanding as of March 31, 20204,747,316  206.54  $7  
91

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The table below shows Hindalco SARs activity for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020.
Number of Hindalco SARsWeighted Average Exercise Price (in Indian Rupees)Weighted Average Remaining
Contractual Term (in years)
Aggregate Intrinsic Value (USD in millions)
SARs outstanding as of March 31, 2019
10,643,730  161.80  4.1$8  
Granted3,475,995  198.88  6.2  
Exercised(1,501,222) 119.36  0.03  
Forfeited/Cancelled(176,537) 173.98  0.0  
SARs outstanding as of March 31, 2020
12,441,966  177.11  4.1  
SARs exercisable as of March 31, 2020
6,742,807  149.92  2.9$  
The table below shows the Novelis SARs activity for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020.
Number of Novelis SARsWeighted Average Exercise Price (in USD)Weighted Average Remaining
Contractual Term (in years)
Aggregate Intrinsic Value (USD in millions)
SARs outstanding as of March 31, 2019
73,948  $86.10  1.9$  
Exercised(32,717) 83.87  0.01  
Forfeited/Cancelled(7,838) 92.87  0.0  
SARs outstanding as of March 31, 2020
33,393  86.70  1.01  
SARs exercisable as of March 31, 2020
33,393  $50.71  1.0$  
The fair value of each unvested Hindalco SAR was estimated using the following assumptions:
Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
202020192018
Risk-free interest rate
4.73% - 6.89%
6.24% - 7.28%
6.14% - 7.67%
Dividend yield1.27 %0.58 %0.53 %
Volatility
36% - 85%
27% - 39%
29% - 42%
The fair value of each unvested Novelis SAR was estimated using the following assumptions:
Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
202020192018
Risk-free interest rate
0.00% - 0.35%
2.19% - 2.49%
1.71% - 2.79%
Dividend yield % % %
Volatility
24% - 40%
17% - 25%
20% - 25%
The fair value of each unvested Hindalco SAR was based on the difference between the fair value of a long call and a short call option. The fair value of each of these call options was determined using the Monte Carlo Simulation model. We used historical stock price volatility data of Hindalco on the National Stock Exchange of India to determine expected volatility assumptions. The risk-free interest rate is based on Indian treasury yields interpolated for a time period corresponding to the remaining contractual life. The forfeiture rate is estimated based on actual historical forfeitures. The dividend yield is estimated to be the annual dividend of the Hindalco stock over the remaining contractual lives of the Hindalco SARs. The value of each vested Hindalco SAR is remeasured at fair value each reporting period based on the excess of the current stock price over the exercise price, not to exceed the maximum payout as defined by the plans. The fair value of the Hindalco SARs is being recognized over the requisite performance and service period of each tranche, subject to the achievement of any performance criteria.
The fair value of each unvested Novelis SAR was based on the difference between the fair value of a long call and a short call option. The fair value of each of these call options was determined using the Monte Carlo Simulation model. We used the historical volatility of comparable companies to determine expected volatility assumptions. The risk-free interest rate is based on U.S. treasury yields for a time period corresponding to the remaining contractual life. The forfeiture rate is estimated based on actual historical forfeitures of Hindalco SARs. The value of each vested Novelis SAR is remeasured at fair value each reporting period based on the percentage increase in the current Novelis phantom stock price over the exercise price, not to exceed the maximum payout as defined by the plans. The fair value of the Novelis SARs is being recognized over the requisite performance and service period of each tranche, subject to the achievement of any performance criteria.
92

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The cash payments made to settle Hindalco SAR liabilities were $3 million, $5 million, and $10 million, in the fiscal years ended March 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, respectively. The cash payments made to settle Novelis SAR liabilities were $1 million in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020 and less than $1 million in the fiscal years ended March 31, 2019 and 2018. Total cash payments made to settle Hindalco RSUs were $9 million, $15 million, and $8 million in the years ended March 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, respectively. Unrecognized compensation expense related to the non-vested Hindalco SARs (assuming all future performance criteria are met) was $1 million that are expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.4 years. Unrecognized compensation expense related to the RSUs was $2 million, which will be recognized over the remaining weighted average vesting period of 1.4 years.

93

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
14. POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT PLANS
Our pension obligations relate to: (1) funded defined benefit pension plans in the U.S., Canada, Switzerland, and the U.K.; (2) unfunded defined benefit pension plans in Germany; (3) unfunded lump sum indemnities payable upon retirement to employees in France and Italy; and (4) partially funded lump sum indemnities in South Korea. Our other postretirement obligations (Other Benefits, as shown in certain tables below) include unfunded health care and life insurance benefits provided to retired employees in the U.S., Canada, and Brazil. We have combined our domestic (i.e. Canadian Plans) and foreign (i.e. All other Plans other than Canadian Plans) postretirement benefit plan disclosures because our domestic benefit obligation is not significant as compared to our total benefit obligation, as our foreign benefit obligation is 95% of the total benefit obligation, and the assumptions used to value domestic and foreign plans were not significantly different. Fiscal 2018 settlement activity primarily relates to the formation of UAL.
Employer Contributions to Plans
For pension plans, our policy is to fund an amount required to provide for contractual benefits attributed to service to-date, and amortize unfunded actuarial liabilities typically over periods of 15 years or less. We also participate in savings plans in Canada and the U.S., as well as defined contribution pension plans in the U.S., U.K., Canada, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and Brazil.
We contributed the following amounts to all plans.
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions202020192018
Funded pension plans$52  $35  $57  
Unfunded pension plans12  12  12  
Savings and defined contribution pension plans33  31  27  
Total contributions$97  $78  $96  
During fiscal year 2021, we expect to contribute $70 million to our funded pension plans, $12 million to our unfunded pension plans and $33 million to our savings and defined contribution pension plans.
Benefit Obligations, Fair Value of Plan Assets, Funded Status and Amounts Recognized in Financial Statements
The following tables present the change in benefit obligation, change in fair value of plan assets and the funded status for pension and other benefits.
 Pension Benefit PlansOther Pension Plans
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions2020201920202019
Benefit obligation at beginning of period$1,987  $1,983  $171  $176  
Service cost39  39  10  9  
Interest cost59  60  7  7  
Members’ contributions5  4      
Benefits paid(74) (70) (7) (7) 
Amendments  3      
Curtailments, settlements and special termination benefits(11)       
Actuarial losses (gains)77  36  (4) (14) 
Other(3) (3)     
Currency losses (gains)(25) (65) (1)   
Benefit obligation at end of period$2,054  $1,987  $176  $171  
Benefit obligation of funded plans$1,737  $1,686  $  $  
Benefit obligation of unfunded plans317  301  176  171  
Benefit obligation at end of period$2,054  $1,987  $176  $171  
        
94

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 Pension Benefit Plans
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions20202019
Change in fair value of plan assets
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period$1,300  $1,317  
Actual return on plan assets36  40  
Members’ contributions5  4  
Benefits paid(74) (70) 
Company contributions64  47  
Settlements(11)   
Other(3) (3) 
Currency (losses) gains(19) (35) 
Fair value of plan assets at end of period$1,298  $1,300  

 March 31,
 20202019
in millionsPension Benefit PlansOther Benefit PlansPension Benefit PlansOther Benefit Plans
Funded status
Funded status at end of period:
Assets less the benefit obligation of funded plans$(439) $  $(386) $  
Benefit obligation of unfunded plans(317) (176) (301) (171) 
$(756) $(176) $(687) $(171) 
As included in our consolidated balance sheets within Total assets / (Total liabilities)
Other long–term assets$18  $  $5  $  
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities(12) (8) (12) (7) 
Accrued postretirement benefits(762) (168) (680) (164) 
$(756) $(176) $(687) $(171) 
The postretirement amounts recognized in "Accumulated other comprehensive loss," before tax effects, are presented in the table below, and includes the impact related to our equity method investments. Amounts are amortized to net periodic benefit cost over the group’s average future service life of the employees or the group's average life expectancy.
 March 31,
 20202019
in millionsPension Benefit PlansOther Benefit PlansPension Benefit PlansOther Benefit Plans
Net actuarial losses$(455) $(8) $(377) $(13) 
Prior service credit9  4  10  5  
Total postretirement amounts recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive loss
$(446) $(4) $(367) $(8) 
The estimated amounts that will be amortized from "Accumulated other comprehensive loss" into net periodic benefit cost in fiscal year 2021 (exclusive of equity method investments) are $48 million for pension benefit costs related to net actuarial losses of $49 million partially offset by prior service credits of $1 million, and less than $1 million for other postretirement benefits, primarily related to amortization of actuarial losses of less than $1 million.
95

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The postretirement changes recognized in "Accumulated other comprehensive loss," before tax effects, are presented in the table below, and include the impact related to our equity method investments.
 March 31,
 20202019
in millionsPension Benefit PlansOther Benefit PlansPension Benefit PlansOther Benefit Plans
Beginning balance in Accumulated other comprehensive loss
$(367) $(8) $(342) $(24) 
Curtailments, settlements, and special termination benefits3    2    
Net actuarial (loss) gain(124) 4  (75) 14  
Prior service cost    (3)   
Amortization of:
Prior service credits(1)   (1)   
Actuarial losses40    35  2  
Effect of currency exchange3    17    
Total postretirement amounts recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive loss
$(446) $(4) $(367) $(8) 
Pension Plan Obligations
The projected benefit obligation, accumulated benefit obligation and fair value of plan assets are presented in the table below.
 March 31,
in millions20202019
The projected benefit obligation and accumulated benefit obligation for all defined benefit pension plans:
Projected benefit obligation $2,054  $1,987  
Accumulated benefit obligation1,901  1,835  
Pension plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets:
Projected benefit obligation $1,683  $1,886  
Fair value of plan assets908  1,195  
Pension plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets:
Accumulated benefit obligation$1,500  $1,705  
Fair value of plan assets862  1,153  
Pension plans with projected benefit obligations less than plan assets:
Projected benefit obligation $371  $101  
Fair value of plan assets389  105  
Future Benefit Payments
Expected benefit payments to be made during the next ten fiscal years are listed in the table below.
in millionsPension Benefit PlansOther Benefit Plans
2021  $80  $7  
2022  86  8  
2023  87  8  
2024  93  9  
2025  95  9  
2026 through 2030530  55  
Total$971  $96  
96

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost
The components of net periodic benefit cost for the respective periods are listed in the table below.
Pension Benefit PlansOther Benefit Plans
  Fiscal Year Ended March 31,Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions202020192018202020192018
Service cost$39  $39  $44  $10  $9  $7  
Interest cost59  60  60  7  7  7  
Expected return on assets(71) (66) (63)       
Amortization — losses, net36  32  36  1  2  1  
Amortization — prior service credit(1) (1) (1)       
Termination benefits/curtailments3  2  2        
Net periodic benefit cost(1)
65  66  78  18  18  15  
Proportionate share of non-consolidated affiliates’ pension costs10  10  9        
Total net periodic benefit cost recognized$75  $76  $87  $18  $18  $15  
_________________________
(1)Service cost is included within "Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)" and "Selling, general and administrative expenses" while all other cost components are recorded within "Other expenses, net."
Actuarial Assumptions and Sensitivity Analysis
The weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations and net periodic benefit cost for the respective periods are listed in the table below.
Pension Benefit PlansOther Benefit Plans
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
202020192018202020192018
Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations
Discount rate2.6 %3.0 %3.1 %3.4 %4.0 %4.0 %
Average compensation growth3.1  3.2  3.1  3.3  3.5  3.5  
Weighted average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost
Discount rate3.0 %3.1 %3.2 %4.0 %4.0 %4.1 %
Average compensation growth3.2  3.1  3.1  3.3  3.5  3.5  
Expected return on plan assets5.5  5.2  5.2        
In selecting the appropriate discount rate for each plan, for pension and other postretirement plans in Canada, the U.S., U.K., and other Euro zone countries, we used spot rate yield curves and individual bond matching models. For other countries, we used published long-term high quality corporate bond indices with adjustments made to the index rates based on the duration of the plans' obligation.
In estimating the expected return on assets of a pension plan, consideration is given primarily to its target allocation, the current yield on long-term bonds in the country where the plan is established, and the historical risk premium of equity or real estate over long-term bond yields in each relevant country. The approach is consistent with the principle that assets with higher risk provide a greater return over the long-term. The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets is 5.1% in fiscal 2021.
We provide unfunded health care and life insurance benefits to our retired employees in Canada, the U.S. and Brazil, for which we paid $7 million, $7 million, and $8 million in fiscal 2020, 2019, and 2018, respectively. The assumed health care cost trend used for measurement purposes is 7.0% for fiscal 2021, decreasing gradually to 5.0% in 2030 and remaining at that level thereafter.
97

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
A change of one percentage point in the assumed health care cost trend rates would have the following effects on our other benefits.
in millions1% Increase1% Decrease
Sensitivity Analysis
Effect on service and interest costs$3  $(2) 
Effect on benefit obligation17  (15) 
In addition, we provide post-employment benefits, including disability, early retirement and continuation of benefits (medical, dental, and life insurance) to our former or inactive employees, which are accounted for on the accrual basis in accordance with ASC 712, Compensation — Retirement Benefits. "Other long–term liabilities" and "Accrued expenses and other current liabilities" on our consolidated balance sheets include $14 million and $4 million, respectively, as of March 31, 2020, for these benefits. Comparatively, "Other long–term liabilities" and "Accrued expenses and other current liabilities" on our consolidated balance sheets include $11 million and $4 million, respectively, as of March 31, 2019.
Investment Policy and Asset Allocation
The Company’s overall investment strategy is to achieve a mix of approximately 50% of investments for long-term growth (equities, real estate) and 50% for near-term benefit payments (debt securities, other) with a wide diversification of asset categories, investment styles, fund strategies and fund managers. Since most of the defined benefit plans are closed to new entrants, we expect this strategy to gradually shift more investments toward near-term benefit payments.
Each of our funded pension plans is governed by an Investment Fiduciary, who establishes an investment policy appropriate for the pension plan. The Investment Fiduciary is responsible for selecting the asset allocation for each plan, monitoring investment managers, monitoring returns versus benchmarks and monitoring compliance with the investment policy. The targeted allocation ranges by asset class, and the actual allocation percentages for each class are listed in the table below. 
Asset CategoryTarget Allocation
Ranges
Allocation in Aggregate as of March 31,
20202019
Equity
14-55%
37 %33 %
Fixed income
38-76%
50 %52 %
Real estate
0-15%
2 %2 %
Other
0-12%
11 %13 %
Fair Value of Plan Assets
The following pension plan assets are measured and recognized at fair value on a recurring basis. Please see Note 18 – Fair Value Measurements for a description of the fair value hierarchy. The U.S. and Canadian pension plan assets are invested exclusively in commingled funds and classified in Level 2, and the U.K., Switzerland, and South Korea pension plan assets are invested in both direct investments (Levels 1 and 2) and commingled funds (Level 2).
Pension Plan Assets
 March 31, 2020March 31, 2019
in millionsLevel 1Level 2Level 3TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3Total
Fixed income149  46    195  138  42    180  
Cash and cash equivalents13      13  12      12  
Investments measured at net asset value(1)
      1,090        1,108  
Total$162  $46  $  $1,298  $150  $42  $  $1,300  
_________________________
(1) Certain investments that are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share (or its equivalent) practical expedient have not been categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value amounts presented in this table are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the amounts presented in the statement of financial position.
98

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
15. CURRENCY LOSSES (GAINS)
The following currency (gains) losses are included in "Other expenses, net" in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions202020192018
Gain on remeasurement of monetary assets and liabilities, net$(23) $(5) $(46) 
Loss recognized on balance sheet remeasurement currency exchange contracts, net26  6  47  
Currency losses, net$3  $1  $1  
The following currency losses are included in "Accumulated other comprehensive loss" and "Noncontrolling interests" in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions202020192018
Cumulative currency translation adjustment — beginning of period$(236) $(65) $(256) 
Effect of changes in exchange rates(73) (171) 191  
Cumulative currency translation adjustment — end of period$(309) $(236) $(65) 
99

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
16. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND COMMODITY CONTRACTS
The following tables summarize the gross fair values of our financial instruments and commodity contracts as of March 31, 2020 and 2019: 
 March 31, 2020
 AssetsLiabilitiesNet Fair Value
in millionsCurrent
Noncurrent(1)
Current
Noncurrent(1)
Assets/(Liabilities)
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
Cash flow hedges
Metal contracts$84  $  $(11) $(3) $70  
Currency exchange contracts2    (68) (7) (73) 
Energy contracts    (11) (4) (15) 
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments86    (90) (14) (18) 
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Metal contracts103    (92) (1) 10  
Currency exchange contracts13    (31)   (18) 
Energy contracts    (1)   (1) 
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments116    (124) (1) (9) 
Total derivative fair value$202  $  $(214) $(15) $(27) 
 
 March 31, 2019
 AssetsLiabilitiesNet Fair Value
 Current
Noncurrent(1)
Current
Noncurrent(1)
Assets/(Liabilities)
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
Cash flow hedges
Metal contracts$6  $  $(10) $  $(4) 
Currency exchange contracts4    (15) (1) (12) 
Energy contracts    (1) (4) (5) 
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments10    (26) (5) (21) 
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Metal contracts38  1  (34) (1) 4  
Currency exchange contracts22  1  (27) (1) (5) 
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments60  2  (61) (2) (1) 
Total derivative fair value$70  $2  $(87) $(7) $(22) 
 _________________________
(1) The noncurrent portions of derivative assets and liabilities are included in "Other long–term assets" and in "Other long–term liabilities," respectively, in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
100

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Metal
We use derivative instruments to preserve our conversion margins and manage the timing differences associated with metal price lag. We use over-the-counter derivatives indexed to the LME (referred to as our "aluminum derivative forward contracts") to reduce our exposure to fluctuating metal prices associated with the period of time between the pricing of our purchases of inventory and the pricing of the sale of that inventory to our customers, which is known as "metal price lag." We also purchase forward LME aluminum contracts simultaneously with our sales contracts with customers that contain fixed metal prices. These LME aluminum forward contracts directly hedge the economic risk of future metal price fluctuations to better match the selling price of the metal with the purchase price of the metal. The volatility in local market premiums also results in metal price lag.
Price risk exposure arises from commitments to sell aluminum in future periods at fixed prices. We identify and designate certain LME aluminum forward contracts as fair value hedges of the metal price risk associated with fixed price sales commitments that qualify as firm commitments. We did not have any outstanding aluminum forward purchase contracts designated as fair value hedges as of March 31, 2020 and March 31, 2019.
Price risk arises due to fluctuating aluminum prices between the time the sales order is committed and the time the order is shipped. We identify and designate certain LME aluminum forward purchase contracts as cash flow hedges of the metal price risk associated with our future metal purchases that vary based on changes in the price of aluminum. Generally, such exposures do not extend beyond two years in length. The average duration of undesignated contracts is less than one year
Price risk exposure arises due to the timing lag between the LME based pricing of raw material aluminum purchases and the LME based pricing of finished product sales. We identify and designate certain LME aluminum forward sales contracts as cash flow hedges of the metal price risk associated with our future metal sales that vary based on changes in the price of aluminum. Generally, such exposures do not extend beyond two years in length. The average duration of undesignated contracts is less than one year.
In addition to aluminum, we entered into LME copper and LMP forward contracts. As of March 31, 2020 and March 31, 2019, the fair value of these contracts were a liability and an asset of less than $1 million, respectively. These contracts are undesignated with an average duration of less than one year.
The following table summarizes our notional amount.
 March 31,
in kt20202019
Hedge type
Purchase (sale)
Cash flow purchases63    
Cash flow sales(395) (353) 
Not designated(19) 15  
Total, net(351) (338) 
Foreign Currency
We use foreign exchange forward contracts, cross-currency swaps and options to manage our exposure to changes in exchange rates. These exposures arise from recorded assets and liabilities, firm commitments and forecasted cash flows denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of certain operations.
We use foreign currency contracts to hedge expected future foreign currency transactions, which include capital expenditures. These contracts cover the same periods as known or expected exposures. We had total notional amounts of $680 million and $703 million in outstanding foreign currency forwards designated as cash flow hedges as of March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
We use foreign currency contracts to hedge our foreign currency exposure to our net investment in foreign subsidiaries. We did not have any outstanding foreign currency forwards designated as net investment hedges as of March 31, 2020 and March 31, 2019.
As of March 31, 2020 and 2019, we had outstanding foreign currency exchange contracts with a total notional amount of $620 million and $737 million, respectively, to primarily hedge balance sheet remeasurement risk, which were not designated as hedges. Contracts representing the majority of this notional amount will mature during the first quarter of fiscal year 2021 and offset the remeasurement impact.
 Energy
We own an interest in an electricity swap contract to hedge our exposure to fluctuating electricity prices, which matures on January 5, 2022. As of March 31, 2020 and 2019, 1 million of notional megawatt hours were outstanding and the fair value of this swap was a liability of $6 million and $3 million, respectively. The electricity swap is designated as a cash flow hedge.
101

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
We use natural gas forward purchase contracts to manage our exposure to fluctuating energy prices in North America. We had a notional of 15 million MMBTU designated as cash flow hedges as of March 31, 2020, and the fair value was a liability of $5 million. There was a notional of 15 million MMBTU of natural gas forward purchase contracts designated as cash flow hedges as of March 31, 2019 and the fair value was a liability of $2 million. As of March 31, 2020 and 2019, we had notionals of less than 1 million MMBTU of forward contracts that were not designated as hedges. The fair value of forward contracts not designated as hedges as of March 31, 2020 and 2019 were both a liability of less than $1 million. The average duration of undesignated contracts is less than three years in length. One MMBTU is the equivalent of one decatherm, or one million British Thermal Units.
We use diesel fuel forward purchase contracts to manage our exposure to fluctuating fuel prices in North America. We had a notional of 7 million gallons designated as cash flow hedges as of March 31, 2020, and the fair value was a liability of $4 million. There was a notional of 8 million gallons designated as cash flow hedges as of March 31, 2019, and the fair value was a liability of less than $1 million.
Interest Rate
As of March 31, 2020 and March 31, 2019, we had no outstanding interest rate swaps, as all swaps expired concurrent with the maturity of the related loans.
Gain (Loss) Recognition
The following table summarizes the gains (losses) associated with the change in fair value of derivative instruments not designated as hedges and the ineffectiveness and excluded portion of designated derivatives recognized in "Other expenses, net." Gains (losses) recognized in other line items in the consolidated statement of operations are separately disclosed within this footnote.
Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions202020192018
Derivative instruments not designated as hedges
Metal contracts$(12) $(8) $10  
Currency exchange contracts(25) (4) (57) 
Energy contracts(1)
5  6  7  
(Loss) gain recognized in "Other expenses, net"
(32) (6) (40) 
Derivative instruments designated as hedges
(Loss) gain recognized in "Other expenses, net"(2)
3  2  (7) 
Total (loss) gain recognized in "Other expenses, net"
(29) (4) (47) 
Balance sheet remeasurement currency exchange contract (losses) gains(26) (6) (47) 
Realized (losses) gains, net(7) 12  (20) 
Unrealized gains (losses) on other derivative instruments, net4  (10) 20  
Total (loss) gain recognized in "Other expenses, net"
$(29) $(4) $(47) 
_________________________
(1) Includes amounts related to diesel swaps not designated as hedges, and electricity swap settlements.
(2) Amount includes: forward market premium/discount excluded from hedging relationship, ineffectiveness on designated aluminum contracts, and releases to income from AOCI on balance sheet remeasurement contracts.
102

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The following table summarizes the impact on AOCI and earnings of derivative instruments designated as cash flow and net investment hedges. Within the next twelve months, we expect to reclassify $15 million of gains from AOCI to earnings, before taxes.
 Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in OCI
(Effective Portion)
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in "Other expenses, net"
(Ineffective and Excluded Portion)
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions202020192018202020192018
Cash flow hedging derivatives
Metal contracts$163  $33  $35  $  $  $(9) 
Currency exchange contracts(105) (44) (5) 3  2  1  
Energy contracts(18) 3  (4)     1  
Total cash flow hedging derivatives40  (8) 26  3  2  (7) 
Net investment derivatives
Currency exchange contracts    (17)       
Total$40  $(8) $9  $3  $2  $(7) 
Gain (Loss) Reclassification
Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Income/(Expense)
(Effective Portion)
Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Earnings
in millions202020192018 
Cash flow hedging derivatives
Energy contracts(1)
$(5) $(1) $(3) 
Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)
Metal contracts(2)
(4)   (78) 
Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)
Metal contracts(2)
83  89  (22) 
Net sales
Currency exchange contracts(8) (14) 14  
Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)
Currency exchange contracts(1) (1) 1  
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Currency exchange contracts(14) (9) 7  
Net sales
Currency exchange contracts(1) (1) (1) 
Depreciation and amortization
Total50  63  (82) 
Income before income tax provision
(12) (17) 24  
Income tax provision
$38  $46  $(58) 
Net income
_________________________
(1) Includes amounts related to electricity, natural gas, and diesel swaps.
(2) Effective with the adoption of ASU 2017-12, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Target Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2018, releases from AOCI for aluminum forward sales contracts are recorded to Net sales.
103

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The following tables summarize the location and amount of gain (loss) that was reclassified from "Accumulated other comprehensive loss" into earnings and the amount excluded from the assessment of effectiveness for the three and twelve months ended March 31, 2020 and March 31, 2019.

Three Months Ended March 31, 2020
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2020
in millions
Net sales
Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Depreciation and amortization
Other expenses, net
Net sales
Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Depreciation and amortization
Other expenses, net
Gain (loss) on cash flow hedging relationships:
Metal commodity contracts:
Amount of loss reclassified from AOCI into income$15  $(1) $  $  $  $83  $(4) $  $  $  
Energy commodity contracts:
Amount of loss reclassified from AOCI into income$  $(2) $  $  $  $  $(5) $  $  $  
Foreign exchange contracts:
Amount of gain reclassified from AOCI into income$(4) $(5) $(1) $  $  $(14) $(8) $(1) $(1) $  
Amount excluded from effectiveness testing recognized in earnings based on changes in fair value        1          3  

Three Months Ended March 31, 2019
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2019
in millions
Net sales
Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Depreciation and amortization
Other expenses, net
Net sales
Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Depreciation and amortization
Other expenses, net
Gain (loss) on cash flow hedging relationships:
Metal commodity contracts:
Amount of loss reclassified from AOCI into income$47  $  $  $  $  $89  $  $  $  $  
Energy commodity contracts:
Amount of loss reclassified from AOCI into income$  $1  $  $  $  $  $(1) $  $  $  
Foreign exchange contracts:
Amount of gain reclassified from AOCI into income$(3) $(4) $  $  $  $(9) $(14) $(1) $(1) $  
Amount excluded from effectiveness testing recognized in earnings based on changes in fair value                  2  

104

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
17. ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
The following table summarizes the change in the components of "Accumulated other comprehensive loss" and excluding "Noncontrolling interests," for the periods presented.
in millionsCurrency
Translation
Cash Flow
Hedges(1)
Postretirement
Benefit Plans(2)
Total
Balance as of March 31, 2017
$(256) $(46) $(243) $(545) 
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications191  19  29  239  
Amounts reclassified from AOCI, net  58  (13) 45  
Net current-period other comprehensive income191  77  16  284  
Balance as of March 31, 2018
$(65) $31  $(227) $(261) 
Amounts reclassified from AOCI, net - due to adoption of accounting standard updates  (3) (13) (16) 
Balance as of April 1, 2018$(65) $28  $(240) $(277) 
Other comprehensive (loss) before reclassifications(171) (4) (33) (208) 
Amounts reclassified from AOCI, net  (46) 25  (21) 
Net current-period other comprehensive income(171) (50) (8) (229) 
Balance as of March 31, 2019
$(236) $(22) $(248) $(506) 
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications(73) 34  (66) (105) 
Amounts reclassified from AOCI, net  (38) 29  (9) 
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)(73) (4) (37) (114) 
Balance as of March 31, 2020
$(309) $(26) $(285) $(620) 
_________________________
(1)For additional information on our cash flow hedges see Note 16 – Financial Instruments and Commodity Contracts.
(2)For additional information on our postretirement benefit plans see Note 14 – Postretirement Benefit Plans.

105

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
18. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
We record certain assets and liabilities, primarily derivative instruments, on our consolidated balance sheets at fair value. We also disclose the fair values of certain financial instruments, including debt and loans receivable, which are not recorded at fair value. Our objective in measuring fair value is to estimate an exit price in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. We consider factors such as liquidity, bid/offer spreads and nonperformance risk, including our own nonperformance risk, in measuring fair value. We use observable market inputs wherever possible. To the extent observable market inputs are not available, our fair value measurements will reflect the assumptions we used. We grade the level of the inputs and assumptions used according to a three-tier hierarchy:
Level 1 — Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities we have the ability to access at the measurement date.
Level 2 — Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly.
Level 3 — Unobservable inputs for which there is little or no market data, which require us to develop our own assumptions based on the best information available as what market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability.
The following section describes the valuation methodologies we used to measure our various financial instruments at fair value, including an indication of the level in the fair value hierarchy in which each instrument is generally classified.
Derivative Contracts
For certain derivative contracts with fair values based upon trades in liquid markets, such as aluminum, foreign exchange, natural gas and diesel fuel forward contracts and options, valuation model inputs can generally be verified and valuation techniques do not involve significant judgment. The fair values of such financial instruments are generally classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
The majority of our derivative contracts are valued using industry-standard models with observable market inputs as their basis, such as time value, forward interest rates, volatility factors, and current (spot) and forward market prices. We generally classify these instruments within Level 2 of the valuation hierarchy. Such derivatives include interest rate swaps, cross-currency swaps, foreign currency contracts, aluminum and copper forward contracts, natural gas and diesel fuel forward contracts.
We classify derivative contracts that are valued based on models with significant unobservable market inputs as Level 3 of the valuation hierarchy. Our electricity swap, which is our only Level 3 derivative contract, represents an agreement to buy electricity at a fixed price at our Oswego, New York facility. Forward prices are not observable for this market, so we must make certain assumptions based on available information we believe to be relevant to market participants. We use observable forward prices for a geographically nearby market and adjust for 1) historical spreads between the cash prices of the two markets, and 2) historical spreads between retail and wholesale prices.
For the electricity swap, the average forward price at March 31, 2020, estimated using the method described above, was $34 per megawatt hour, which represented an approximately $1 premium over forward prices in the nearby observable market. The actual rate from the most recent swap settlement was approximately $28 per megawatt hour. Each $1 per megawatt hour decline in price decreases the valuation of the electricity swap by less than $1 million.
For Level 2 and 3 of the fair value hierarchy, where appropriate, valuations are adjusted for various factors such as liquidity, bid/offer spreads and credit considerations (nonperformance risk). We regularly monitor these factors along with significant market inputs and assumptions used in our fair value measurements and evaluate the level of the valuation input according to the fair value hierarchy. This may result in a transfer between levels in the hierarchy from period to period. As of March 31, 2020 and March 31, 2019, we did not have any Level 1 derivative contracts. No amounts were transferred between levels in the fair value hierarchy.
All of the Company's derivative instruments are carried at fair value in the statements of financial position prior to considering master netting agreements.
106

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The following table presents our derivative assets and liabilities which were measured and recognized at fair value on a recurring basis classified under the appropriate level of the fair value hierarchy as of March 31, 2020 and March 31, 2019. The table below also discloses the net fair value of the derivative instruments after considering the impact of master netting agreements.
 March 31,
 20202019
in millionsAssetsLiabilitiesAssetsLiabilities
Level 2 instruments
Metal contracts$187  $(107) $45  $(45) 
Currency exchange contracts15  (106) 27  (44) 
Energy contracts  (10)   (2) 
Total level 2 instruments202  (223) 72  (91) 
Level 3 instruments
Energy contracts  (6)   (3) 
Total level 3 instruments  (6)   (3) 
Total gross202  (229) 72  (94) 
Netting adjustment(1)
(72) 72  (36) 36  
Total net$130  $(157) $36  $(58) 
 _________________________
(1)Amounts represent the impact of legally enforceable master netting agreements that allow the Company to settle positive and negative positions with the same counterparties.
There were no unrealized gains (losses) recognized in "Other expenses, net" for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020 related to Level 3 financial instrument.
The following table presents a reconciliation of fair value activity for Level 3 derivative contracts.
in millions
Level 3 – Derivative Instruments(1)
Balance as of March 31, 2018
$(7) 
Unrealized/realized gain included in earnings(2)
6  
Unrealized/realized (loss) included in AOCI(3)
3  
Settlements(2)
(5) 
Balance as of March 31, 2019
(3) 
Unrealized/realized gain included in earnings(2)
4  
Unrealized/realized (loss) included in AOCI(3)
(7) 
Settlements(2)
  
Balance as of March 31, 2020
$(6) 
_________________________
(1)Represents net derivative liabilities.
(2)Included in "Other expenses, net."
(3)Included in "Net change in fair value of effective portion of hedges."
Financial Instruments Not Recorded at Fair Value
The table below presents the estimated fair value of certain financial instruments not recorded at fair value on a recurring basis. The table excludes short-term financial assets and liabilities for which we believe carrying value approximates fair value. We value long-term receivables and long-term debt using Level 2 inputs. Valuations are based on either market and/or broker ask prices when available or on a standard credit adjusted discounted cash flow model using market observable inputs.
 March 31,
 20202019
in millionsCarrying ValueFair ValueCarrying ValueFair Value
Total debt — third parties (excluding short term borrowings)$5,364  $5,267  $4,347  $4,472  

107

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
19. OTHER EXPENSES
"Other expenses, net" is comprised of the following.
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions202020192018
Currency losses, net(1)
$3  $1  $1  
Unrealized (gains) losses on change in fair value of derivative instruments, net(2)
(4) 10  (20) 
Realized losses (gains) on change in fair value of derivative instruments, net(2)
7  (12) 20  
Loss on sale of assets, net
1  6  7  
(Gain) loss on Brazilian tax litigation, net(3)
(7) 2  3  
Interest income(14) (10) (9) 
Non-operating net periodic benefit cost(4)
34  35  42  
Other, net(2) 12  7  
Other expenses, net
$18  $44  $51  
_________________________ 
(1)Includes "(Gain) loss recognized on balance sheet remeasurement currency exchange contracts, net."
(2)See Note 16 – Financial Instruments and Commodity Contracts for further details.
(3)See Note 21 – Commitments and Contingencies for further details.
(4)Represents net periodic benefit cost, exclusive of service cost for the Company's pension and other post-retirement plans. For further details, refer to Note 1 – Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.


108

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
20. INCOME TAXES
We are subject to Canadian and United States federal, state, and local income taxes as well as other foreign income taxes. The domestic (Canada) and foreign components of our "Income before income tax provision" (and after removing our "Equity in net loss (income) of non-consolidated affiliates") are as follows.
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions202020192018
Domestic (Canada)$(58) $(80) $(50) 
Foreign (all other countries)658  713  906  
Pre-tax income before equity in net loss of non-consolidated affiliates$600  $633  $856  
The components of the "Income tax provision" are as follows.
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions202020192018
Current provision:
Domestic (Canada)$7  $5  $4  
Foreign (all other countries)171  147  188  
Total current$178  $152  $192  
Deferred provision:
Domestic (Canada)      
Foreign (all other countries)  50  41  
Total deferred$  $50  $41  
Income tax provision$178  $202  $233  
The reconciliation of the Canadian statutory tax rates to our effective tax rates are shown below. 
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions, except percentages202020192018
Pre-tax income before equity in net loss on non-consolidated affiliates$600  $633  $856  
Canadian statutory tax rate25 %25 %25 %
Provision at the Canadian statutory rate$150  $158  $214  
Increase (decrease) for taxes on income (loss) resulting from:
Exchange translation items9  14  10  
Exchange remeasurement of deferred income taxes(17) (9) (3) 
Change in valuation allowances13  17  20  
Tax credits (17) (16) (20) 
Expense (income) items not subject to tax4  1  (5) 
State tax expense, net1  4  5  
Enacted tax rate changes(6) 2  (19) 
Tax rate differences on foreign earnings32  33  23  
Uncertain tax positions4  3  7  
Prior year adjustments(1) 2  1  
Income tax settlements  (4) 1  
Non-deductible expenses and other — net6  (3) (1) 
Income tax provision$178  $202  $233  
Effective tax rate30 %32 %27 %

109

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Our effective tax rate differs from the Canadian statutory rate primarily due to the following factors: (1) pre-tax foreign currency gains or losses with no tax effect and the tax effect of U.S. dollar denominated currency gains or losses with no pre-tax effect, which is shown above as exchange translation items; (2) the remeasurement of deferred income taxes due to foreign currency changes, which is shown above as exchange remeasurement of deferred income taxes; (3) changes in tax credits;(4) changes in valuation allowances; and (5) differences between the Canadian statutory and foreign statutory tax rates applied to entities in different jurisdictions shown above as tax rate differences on foreign earnings.
We continue to maintain valuation allowances in Canada and certain foreign jurisdictions primarily related to tax losses where we believe it is more likely than not that we will be unable to utilize those losses. The following table summarizes changes in the valuation allowances:
in millionsBalance at Beginning of PeriodDeductionsAdditionsBalance at End of Period
Fiscal 2020
$742  $(1) $14  $755  
Fiscal 2019
727  (2) 17  742  
Fiscal 2018
680    47  727  
We earn tax credits in a number of the jurisdictions in which we operate. These are comprised of foreign tax credits in Canada of $9 million, foreign tax credits in the U.K. of $2 million, empire zone credits in New York of $2 million, R&D credits in the US of $2 million, and tax investment credits in Brazil of $2 million as of March 31, 2020. The impact on our income tax provision of credits during the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020 was a benefit of $17 million. However, legislation enacted in New York state on March 31, 2014 established a zero percent statutory income tax rate for manufacturers. As a result, the current year empire zone credits in New York are offset with a corresponding valuation allowance of $2 million. In addition, the foreign tax credits in Canada are fully offset with a corresponding valuation allowance.
On March 27, 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act was enacted and signed into law in the United States. Certain provisions of the CARES Act impact the 2020 income tax provision computations of the Company and are reflected in the fourth quarter of 2020, or the period of enactment. The CARES Act contains modifications on the limitation of business interest for tax years beginning in 2019 (fiscal 2020) and 2020 (fiscal 2021). The modifications to Section 163(j) increase the allowable business interest deduction from 30% of adjusted taxable income to 50% of adjusted taxable income. This modification significantly increased the allowable interest expense deduction of the Company and resulted in significantly less taxable income for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020.
In May 2019, Switzerland voted to approve the Federal Act on Tax Reform and AHV Financing ("Swiss Tax Reform"), effective at the federal level on January 1, 2020. The impacts of Swiss Tax Reform at the federal level did not have a material impact to the Company's financial statements. In addition to federal level implications, Swiss Tax Reform also results in the abolishment of preferential tax regimes by the cantons and, in addition, provides the cantons with parameters for establishing local tax rates and regulations.
Novelis operates in the cantons of Zurich and Valais. In October 2019, the canton of Zurich enacted Swiss Tax Reform on the cantonal level into law. As a result, we recognized an increase to net deferred tax assets of approximately $5 million during the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020. The company considers the income tax impact of Swiss Tax Reform in the canton of Zurich to be an estimate based on the Company's current interpretation and is subject to change upon valuation and further legislative guidance. The canton of Valais has not completed the enactment of Swiss Tax Reform on the cantonal level and therefore, no tax impact was recorded during the year ended March 31, 2020.
On December 22, 2017, the U.S. government enacted comprehensive tax legislation commonly referred to as the U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (the "Act"). The Act made broad and complex changes to the U.S. tax code, including, but not limited to, (1) reducing the U.S. federal corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% effective January 1, 2018 and (2) bonus depreciation that allows for full expensing of qualified property. Simultaneous with the Act, the SEC Staff released Accounting Bulletin No. 118 ("SAB 118"), which allows the use of provisional amounts (reasonable estimates) if the analysis of the impacts of the Act have not been completed when financial statements are issued. During the third quarter of fiscal year 2019, we finalized the computations of the income tax effects of the Act. As such, in accordance with SAB 118, our accounting for the effects of the Act is complete. We did not significantly adjust provisional amounts recorded in the prior fiscal year and the SAB 118 measurement period subsequently ended on December 22, 2018. Although we no longer consider these amounts to be provisional, the determination of the Act’s income tax effects may change following future legislation or further interpretation of the Act based on the publication of recently proposed U.S. Treasury regulations and guidance from the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities.
110

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Deferred Income Taxes
Deferred income taxes recognize the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the carrying amounts used for income tax purposes, and the impact of available net operating loss (NOL) and tax credit carryforwards. These items are stated at the enacted tax rates that are expected to be in effect when taxes are actually paid or recovered. 
Our deferred income tax assets and deferred income tax liabilities are as follows.
 March 31,
in millions20202019
Deferred income tax assets:
Provisions not currently deductible for tax purposes$382  $345  
Tax losses/benefit carryforwards, net708  725  
Depreciation and amortization66  60  
Other assets21    
Total deferred income tax assets1,177  1,130  
Less: valuation allowance(755) (742) 
Net deferred income tax assets$422  $388  
Deferred income tax liabilities:
Depreciation and amortization$324  $339  
Inventory valuation reserves78  83  
Monetary exchange gains, net17  21  
Other liabilities57  26  
Total deferred income tax liabilities$476  $469  
Net deferred income tax liabilities$54  $81  
ASC 740 requires that we reduce our deferred income tax assets by a valuation allowance if, based on the weight of the available evidence, it is more likely than not that all or a portion of a deferred tax asset will not be realized. After consideration of all evidence, both positive and negative, management concluded that it is more likely than not that we will be unable to realize a portion of our deferred tax assets and that valuation allowances of $755 million and $742 million were necessary as of March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
It is reasonably possible that our estimates of future taxable income may change within the next 12 months, resulting in a change to the valuation allowance in one or more jurisdictions.
As of March 31, 2020, we had net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $574 million (tax effected) and tax credit carryforwards of $133 million, which will be available to offset future taxable income and tax liabilities, respectively. The carryforwards will begin expiring in fiscal year 2020. As of March 31, 2020, valuation allowances of $542 million, $129 million and $84 million had been recorded against net operating loss carryforwards, tax credit carryforwards and other deferred tax assets, respectively, where it appeared more likely than not that such benefits will not be realized. The net operating loss carryforwards are predominantly in Canada, the U.S., Italy, Germany, Switzerland and the U.K.
As of March 31, 2019, we had net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $585 million (tax effected) and tax credit carryforwards of $140 million, which will be available to offset future taxable income and tax liabilities, respectively. The carryforwards will begin expiring in fiscal 2019 with some amounts being carried forward indefinitely. As of March 31, 2019, valuation allowances of $542 million, $128 million, and $72 million had been recorded against net operating loss carryforwards, tax credit carryforwards and other deferred tax assets, respectively, where it appeared more likely than not that such benefits will not be realized. The net operating loss carryforwards are predominantly in Canada, the U.S., Italy, Germany, Switzerland, China and the U.K.
Although realization is not assured, management believes it is more likely than not that all the remaining net deferred tax assets will be realized. In the near term, the amount of deferred tax assets considered realizable could be reduced if we do not generate sufficient taxable income in certain jurisdictions.
111

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
As of March 31, 2020, we had cumulative earnings of approximately $3 billion for which we had not provided Canadian income tax or withholding taxes because we consider them to be indefinitely reinvested. We acknowledge that we would need to accrue and pay taxes should we decide to repatriate cash and short-term investments generated from earnings of our foreign subsidiaries that are considered indefinitely reinvested. Except for those jurisdictions where we have already distributed and paid taxes on the earnings, we have reinvested and expect to continue to reinvest undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries indefinitely. Cash and cash equivalents held by foreign subsidiaries that are indefinitely reinvested are used to cover expansion and short-term cash flow needs of such subsidiaries. The amounts considered indefinitely reinvested would be subject to possible Canadian taxation only if remitted as dividends. However, due to our full valuation allowance position of $640 million in Canada, in excess of $503 million of net operating loss carryforwards, exempt surpluses for Canadian tax purposes, $56 million of tax credits and other deferred tax assets of $81 million, a portion of the cumulative earnings would not be taxed if distributed. Due to the complex structure of our international holdings, and the various methods available for repatriation, quantification of the deferred tax liability, if any, associated with these undistributed earnings is not practicable.
Tax Uncertainties
As of March 31, 2020 and 2019, the total amount of unrecognized benefits that, if recognized, would affect the effective income tax rate in future periods based on anticipated settlement dates is $27 million and $24 million, respectively.
Tax authorities continue to examine certain other of our tax filings for fiscal year 2005 and fiscal years 2011 through 2019. As a result of further settlement of audits, judicial decisions, the filing of amended tax returns or the expiration of statutes of limitations, our reserves for unrecognized tax benefits, as well as reserves for interest and penalties, may decrease in the next 12 months by an amount up to approximately $1 million. With few exceptions, tax returns for all jurisdictions for all tax years before 2005 are no longer subject to examination by taxing authorities.
Our policy is to record interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in the income tax provision (benefit). As of March 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, we had $4 million, $4 million and $9 million accrued, respectively, for interest and penalties. For the years ended March 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, we recognized tax expense of $1 million, tax benefit of $5 million, and tax expense of $3 million related to changes in accrued interest and penalties, respectively.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows: 
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions202020192018
Beginning balance$24  $44  $36  
Additions based on tax positions related to the current period3  3  4  
Additions based on tax positions of prior years1  3  6  
Reductions based on tax positions of prior years(1) (1) (7) 
Settlements(1)
  (22)   
Foreign exchange  (3) 5  
Ending Balance$27  $24  $44  
_________________________ 
(1)The amount reported in fiscal 2019 is due to the effective settlement of a certain tax audit for fiscal years 2009 through 2012.
 Income Taxes Payable
Our consolidated balance sheets include income taxes payable, net of $45 million and $41 million as of March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Of these amounts, $67 million and $51 million are reflected in "Accrued expenses and other current liabilities" as of March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. 
112

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
21. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
We are party to, and may in the future be involved in, or subject to, disputes, claims and proceedings arising in the ordinary course of our business, including some we assert against others, such as environmental, health and safety, product liability, employee, tax, personal injury and other matters. For certain matters in which the Company is involved for which a loss is reasonably possible, we are unable to estimate a loss. For certain other matters for which a loss is reasonably possible and the loss is estimable, we have estimated the aggregated range of loss as $0 to $65 million. This estimated aggregate range of reasonably possible losses is based upon currently available information. The Company’s estimates involve significant judgment, and therefore, the estimate will change from time to time and actual losses may differ from the current estimate. We review the status of, and estimated liability related to, pending claims and civil actions on a quarterly basis. The evaluation model includes all asserted and unasserted claims that can be reasonably identified, including claims relating to our responsibility for compliance with environmental, health and safety laws and regulations in the jurisdictions in which we operate or formerly operated. The estimated costs in respect of such reported liabilities are not offset by amounts related to insurance or indemnification arrangements unless otherwise noted.
Environmental Matters
We own and operate numerous manufacturing and other facilities in various countries around the world. Our operations are subject to environmental laws and regulations from various jurisdictions, which govern, among other things, air emissions, wastewater discharges, the handling, storage and disposal of hazardous substances and wastes, the remediation of contaminated sites, post-mining reclamation and restoration of natural resources, and employee health and safety. Future environmental regulations may impose stricter compliance requirements on the industries in which we operate. Additional equipment or process changes at some of our facilities may be needed to meet future requirements. The cost of meeting these requirements may be significant. Failure to comply with such laws and regulations could subject us to administrative, civil or criminal penalties, obligations to pay damages or other costs, and injunctions and other orders, including orders to cease operations.
We are involved in proceedings under the U.S. Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, also known as CERCLA or Superfund, or analogous state provisions regarding liability arising from the usage, storage, treatment or disposal of hazardous substances and wastes at a number of sites in the United States, as well as similar proceedings under the laws and regulations of the other jurisdictions in which we have operations, including Brazil and certain countries in the European Union. Many of these jurisdictions have laws that impose joint and several liability, without regard to fault or the legality of the original conduct, for the costs of environmental remediation, natural resource damages, third party claims, and other expenses. In addition, we are, from time to time, subject to environmental reviews and investigations by relevant governmental authorities. We are also involved in claims and litigation filed on behalf of persons alleging exposure to substances and other hazards at our current and former facilities.
We have established liabilities based on our estimates for currently anticipated costs associated with environmental matters. We estimate that the costs related to our environmental liabilities as of March 31, 2020 were approximately $8 million, of which $7 million was associated with restructuring actions and the remaining undiscounted clean-up costs were $1 million. As of March 31, 2020, $5 million is included in "Accrued expenses and other current liabilities" and the remaining is within "Other long–term liabilities" in our accompanying consolidated balance sheets. As of March 31, 2019, we reported $9 million of total environmental liabilities in our consolidated balance sheet.
 Brazil Tax Litigation
Under a federal tax dispute settlement program established by the Brazilian government, we have settled several disputes with Brazil’s tax authorities regarding various forms of manufacturing taxes and social security contributions. In most cases, we are paying the settlement amounts over a period of 180 months, although in some cases we are paying the settlement amounts over a shorter period. Total settlement liabilities were $27 million and $44 million for the periods ended March 31, 2020 and March 31, 2019, respectively. As of March 31, 2020, $6 million is included in "Accrued expenses and other current liabilities" and the remaining is within "Other long–term liabilities" in our accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
In addition to the disputes we have settled under the federal tax dispute settlement program, we are involved in several other unresolved tax and other legal claims in Brazil. Total liabilities for other disputes and claims were $18 million and $23 million for the periods ended March 31, 2020 and March 31, 2019, respectively. As of March 31, 2020, $1 million is included in "Accrued expenses and other current liabilities" and the remaining is within "Other long–term liabilities" in our accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Additionally, we have included in the range of reasonably possible losses disclosed above, any unresolved tax disputes or other contingencies for which a loss is reasonably possible and estimable. The interest cost recorded on these settlement liabilities offset by interest earned on the cash deposits is reported in "Other expenses, net" on the consolidated statement of operations.

113

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

During the fiscal years ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, we received multiple favorable rulings from the Brazilian court that recognized the right to exclude certain taxes related to contributions to the social integration program and social security contributions on gross revenues, also known as PIS and COFINS. The ruling from the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019 allows for the exclusion of taxes on value-added tax sales and services (defined as ICMS within Brazil, similar to VAT within the United States) from the calculation basis of COFINS from calendar years 2007 to 2014. The ruling from the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020 excludes taxes on ICMS from the calculation basis of PIS and COFINS from calendar years 2015 to 2017. As a result of these cases, we have the right to apply for tax credits for the amounts overpaid during that period. These credits and corresponding interest can be used to offset various Brazilian federal taxes in future years. The Brazilian Office of the Attorney General of the National Treasury has sought clarification from the Brazilian Supreme Court of certain matters, including the amount (i.e. gross or net credit amount) and timing of these credits. If the Brazilian tax authorities challenge the amount or timing of these credits, we may become subject to new litigation related to the indirect tax credits already monetized or it could affect our ability to monetize future indirect tax credits Alternatively, if the Brazilian Supreme Court rules in favor of allowing companies to seek recovery of the gross credit amounts, the amounts of the benefits that we could recover will be greater than those currently recognized. We have estimated that it is probable to receive a benefit, net of fees and applicable Brazilian taxes, related to these periods and recorded this benefit in the corresponding periods, recognized using the net credit amount, as follows.
in millionsAmounts Recorded in Statement of Operations
PeriodPeriod CoveredRelated ContributionNet salesOther expenses, netIncome tax provisionNet income
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 20202015 to 2017PIS and COFINS$  $(8) $3  $5  
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 20192007 to 2014COFINS3  (2) 2  3  
During the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020, we received an additional favorable ruling from the Brazilian court that allows for the exclusion of taxes on value-added tax sales and services from the calculation basis of COFINS from calendar years 1996 to 2007. We are in process of calculating the probable benefit from this ruling, and thus, we have not recognized any amount for this in the current period.
114

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
22. SEGMENT, GEOGRAPHICAL AREA, MAJOR CUSTOMER AND MAJOR SUPPLIER INFORMATION
Segment Information
Due in part to the regional nature of supply and demand of aluminum rolled products and to best serve our customers, we manage our activities based on geographical areas and are organized under four operating segments: North America, Europe, Asia and South America. All of our segments manufacture aluminum sheet and light gauge products.
The following is a description of our operating segments:
North America. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, this segment operates eight plants, including two fully dedicated recycling facilities and two facilities with recycling operations, in two countries.
Europe. Headquartered in Küsnacht, Switzerland, this segment operates nine plants, including one fully dedicated recycling facilities and four facilities with recycling operations, in four countries.
Asia. Headquartered in Seoul, South Korea, this segment operates three plants, including two facilities with recycling operations, in two countries.
South America. Headquartered in Sao Paulo, Brazil, this segment comprises power generation operations, and operates two plants, including one facility with recycling operations, in Brazil.
Net sales and expenses are measured in accordance with the policies and procedures described in Note 1 – Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.
We measure the profitability and financial performance of our operating segments based on "Segment income." "Segment income" provides a measure of our underlying segment results that is in line with our approach to risk management. We define "Segment income" as earnings before (a) "depreciation and amortization"; (b) "interest expense and amortization of debt issuance costs"; (c) "interest income"; (d) unrealized gains (losses) on change in fair value of derivative instruments, net, except for foreign currency remeasurement hedging activities, which are included in segment income; (e) impairment of goodwill; (f) gain or loss on extinguishment of debt; (g) noncontrolling interests' share; (h) adjustments to reconcile our proportional share of "Segment income" from non-consolidated affiliates to income as determined on the equity method of accounting; (i) "restructuring and impairment, net"; (j) gains or losses on disposals of property, plant and equipment and businesses, net; (k) other costs, net; (l) litigation settlement, net of insurance recoveries; (m) sale transaction fees; (n) provision or benefit for taxes on income (loss); (o) cumulative effect of accounting change, net of tax; (p) metal price lag; (q) business acquisition and other integration costs.
The tables below show selected segment financial information (in millions). The "Eliminations and Other" column in the table below includes eliminations and functions that are managed directly from our corporate office that have not been allocated to our operating segments, as well as the adjustments for proportional consolidation, and eliminations of intersegment "Net sales." The financial information for our segments includes the results of our affiliates on a proportionately consolidated basis, which is consistent with the way we manage our business segments. In order to reconcile the financial information for the segments shown in the tables below to the relevant U.S. GAAP based measures, we must adjust proportional consolidation of each line item. The "Eliminations and Other" in "Net sales – third party" includes the net sales attributable to our joint venture party, Tri-Arrows, for our Logan affiliate because we consolidate 100% of the Logan joint venture for U.S. GAAP, but we manage our Logan affiliate on a proportionately consolidated basis. See Note 8 – Consolidation and Note 9 – Investment in and Advances to Non-Consolidated Affiliates and Related Party Transactions for further information about these affiliates. Additionally, we eliminate intersegment sales and intersegment income for reporting on a consolidated basis.
115

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Selected Segment Financial Information
in millions
Selected Operating Results
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2020
North AmericaEuropeAsiaSouth AmericaEliminations and OtherTotal
Net sales - third party$4,118  $2,977  $1,952  $1,861  $309  $11,217  
Net sales - intersegment  118  17  43  (178)   
Net sales$4,118  $3,095  $1,969  $1,904  $131  $11,217  
Depreciation and amortization$153  $117  $62  $67  $(38) $361  
Income tax provision 19  11  29  108  11  178  
Cash capital expenditures292  85  132  94  (4) 599  
March 31, 2020
Investment in and advances to non–consolidated affiliates$  $465  $295  $  $  $760  
Total assets4,274  3,075  1,737  1,626  277  10,989  

in millions
Selected Operating Results
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2019
North AmericaEuropeAsiaSouth AmericaEliminations and OtherTotal
Net sales - third party$4,580  $3,266  $2,154  $2,059  $267  $12,326  
Net sales - intersegment1  110  36  32  (179)   
Net sales$4,581  $3,376  $2,190  $2,091  $88  $12,326  
Depreciation and amortization$150  $116  $63  $66  $(45) $350  
Income tax provision45  15  19  106  17  202  
Cash capital expenditures147  80  70  65  (11) 351  
March 31, 2019
Investment in and advances to non–consolidated affiliates$  $478  $314  $  $  $792  
Total assets2,923  2,872  1,717  1,831  225  9,568  

in millions
Selected Operating Results
Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2018
North AmericaEuropeAsiaSouth AmericaEliminations and OtherTotal
Net sales - third party$3,933  $3,390  $2,066  $1,851  $222  $11,462  
Net sales - intersegment18  57  44  80  (199)   
Net sales$3,951  $3,447  $2,110  $1,931  $23  $11,462  
Depreciation and amortization$149  $112  $65  $65  $(37) $354  
Income tax provision13  19  108  77  16  233  
Cash capital expenditures78  71  36  38  3  226  
116

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The following table displays the reconciliation from "Net income attributable to our common shareholder" to "Segment income" from reportable segments.
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions202020192018
Net income attributable to our common shareholder$420  $434  $635  
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests    (13) 
Income tax provision178  202  233  
Depreciation and amortization361  350  354  
Interest expense and amortization of debt issuance costs248  268  255  
Adjustment to reconcile proportional consolidation57  58  51  
Unrealized (gains) losses on change in fair value of derivative instruments, net(4) 10  (20) 
Realized gains on derivative instruments not included in segment income  (2)   
Loss on extinguishment of debt71      
Restructuring and impairment, net43  2  34  
Loss on sale of fixed assets1  6  7  
Gain on sale of a business    (318) 
Metal price lag 38  4  (4) 
Business acquisition and other integration related costs(1)
63  33    
Other, net(4) 3  1  
Total of reportable segments$1,472  $1,368  $1,215  
_________________________
(1) "Business acquisition and other integration related costs" are primarily legal and professional fees associated with our acquisition of Aleris.
The following table displays "Segment income" by reportable segment.
Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions202020192018
North America$590  $552  $474  
Europe246  226  219  
Asia210  196  167  
South America421  394  363  
Intersegment eliminations5    (8) 
Total of reportable segments$1,472  $1,368  $1,215  
Geographical Area Information
We had 22 operating facilities in nine countries as of March 31, 2020. The tables below present "Net sales" and "Long-lived assets and other intangible assets" by geographical area. "Net sales" are attributed to geographical areas based on the origin of the sale. "Long-lived assets and other intangible assets" are attributed to geographical areas based on asset location and exclude investments in and advances to our non-consolidated affiliates and goodwill. 
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions202020192018
Net sales:
United States$4,273  $4,725  $4,041  
Asia and Other Pacific1,952  2,154  2,068  
Brazil1,861  2,059  1,851  
Canada154  121  113  
Germany2,506  2,749  2,853  
Other Europe471  518  536  
Total Net sales$11,217  $12,326  $11,462  
 
117

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 March 31,
in millions20202019
Long-lived assets and other intangibles:
United States$1,526  $1,421  
Asia and Other Pacific534  478  
Brazil816  796  
Canada58  61  
Germany248  265  
Other Europe696  720  
Total long-lived assets$3,878  $3,741  
Information about Product Sales, Major Customers and Primary Supplier
Product Sales
The following table displays our "Net sales" by value stream.
Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions202020192018
Can$6,240  $6,643  $5,962  
Automotive2,801  2,967  2,802  
Specialty (and other)2,176  2,716  2,698  
Net sales$11,217  $12,326  $11,462  
Major Customers
The following table displays net sales to customers representing 10% or more of our total "Net sales."
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
in millions202020192018
Ball21 %22 %21 %
Ford10 %10 %10 %
Primary Supplier
Rio Tinto (RT) is our primary supplier of metal inputs, including prime and sheet ingot. The table below shows our purchases from RT as a percentage of our total combined metal purchases.
 Fiscal Year Ended March 31,
 202020192018
Purchases from RT as a percentage of total combined metal purchases11 %10 %10 %

118

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
23. QUARTERLY RESULTS (UNAUDITED)
The tables below present select operating results by period:
 Quarter Ended
in millionsJune 30,
2019
September 30,
2019
December 31,
2019
March 31,
2020
Net sales$2,925  $2,851  $2,715  $2,726  
Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)2,414  2,348  2,239  2,230  
Selling, general and administrative expenses127  122  131  118  
Depreciation and amortization88  88  91  94  
Interest expense and amortization of debt issuance costs65  61  59  63  
Research and development expenses19  18  21  26  
Loss on extinguishment of debt      71  
Restructuring and impairment, net1  32  3  7  
Equity in net loss of non-consolidated affiliates    1  1  
Business acquisition and other integration related costs17  12  17  17  
Other expenses, net4  2  (3) 15  
Income tax provision63  45  49  21  
Net income127  123  107  63  
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests        
Net income attributable to our common shareholder$127  $123  $107  $63  

 Quarter Ended
in millionsJune 30,
2018
September 30,
2018
December 31,
2018
March 31,
2019
Net sales$3,097  $3,136  $3,009  $3,084  
Cost of goods sold (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)2,591  2,657  2,568  2,606  
Selling, general and administrative expenses117  127  129  129  
Depreciation and amortization86  86  88  90  
Interest expense and amortization of debt issuance costs66  68  67  67  
Research and development expenses15  17  18  22  
Restructuring and impairment, net1    1    
Equity in net income of non-consolidated affiliates  (1) (1) (1) 
Business acquisition and other integration related costs2  8  14  9  
Other expenses, net29  (6) 10  11  
Income tax provision53  64  37  48  
Net income137  116  78  103  
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests        
Net income attributable to our common shareholder$137  $116  $78  $103  



119

Novelis Inc.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
24. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Aleris Acquisition
On April 14, 2020, we closed our acquisition of Aleris. As a result of the antitrust review processes required for approval of the acquisition, we are obligated to divest Aleris' European and North American automotive assets, including its plants in Duffel, Belgium (Duffel) and Lewisport, Kentucky (Lewisport).
Our previously disclosed sale of Duffel to Liberty House Group is pending and remains subject to approval by the State Administration for Market Regulation in China and other closing conditions set forth in our definitive agreement with Liberty.
On September 4, 2019, the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) filed an action to block our acquisition of Aleris and contemporaneously announced an agreement with us to resolve the antitrust issues through binding arbitration. On March 9, 2020, the arbitrator assigned to resolve the dispute ruled in favor of the DOJ. As a consequence of that ruling, we are now required to divest Lewisport, and we are currently in discussions with the DOJ regarding the allowed timeframe to consummate this sale. Once a buyer for Lewisport has been identified, completion of the divestiture will be conditioned on the receipt of required regulatory approvals and will be subject to other customary closing conditions. Although we believe the Lewisport asset group is marketable in its current condition and we intend to run a competitive sales process, there is no assurance that we will be able to fully recover our investment in these assets. In addition, in light of current adverse market conditions, Novelis may not be able to complete the divestiture of Lewisport on favorable terms, in a timely manner, or at all. Delays or difficulties in divesting Duffel or Lewisport may result in additional expenditures of funds and management resources which would reduce the financial benefit we expect from our acquisition of Aleris and could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Until the sales of Duffel and Lewisport are completed, we are legally required to hold these assets separate from the rest of Novelis and maintain them as viable and competitive.
COVID-19
The COVID-19 outbreak is disrupting supply chains and affecting production and sales across a range of industries, including the automotive industry. Disruptions to the automotive manufacturing industry may result in continued weakened demand for products we supply to the automotive end use market, which could materially impact our automotive business.
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have been required to partially shut down or temporarily close certain facilities in the United States and abroad to comply with state orders and governmental decrees and adjust schedules at certain of our facilities based on customer demand. The plant shut downs and adjusted schedules resulting from COVID-19 have resulted in disruptions to our supply chain, interruptions to our production, and delays of shipments to our customers.
The overall extent of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our operational and financial performance will depend on certain developments, including the duration and spread of the outbreak and its impact on our customers, employees, and vendors.
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Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.
None.
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures.
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act) is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act, include controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including the Principal Executive Officer and the Principal Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Any system of controls, however well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, and not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the system are met.
As required by Securities and Exchange Commission rules, we have evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this Form 10-K. This evaluation was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer. Based on this evaluation, our management, including our Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer, has concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of March 31, 2020.
Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
The report of management on our internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2020 is set forth in Part II, "Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" in this report.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
During fiscal 2019, we implemented a new system and modified our internal controls to facilitate the adoption of ASC 842 “Leases." The adoption of this standard did not have a material impact to the consolidated statement of operations or the consolidated statement of cash flows. There have been no other changes in internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during the most recently completed fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Item 9B. Other Information.
On March 18, 2020, Leslie J. Parrette, Jr., our former Senior Vice President, General Counsel, Corporate Secretary and Compliance Officer, departed Novelis to pursue opportunities outside the company. On March 20, 2020, we entered into a severance and release agreement with Mr. Parrette, under which Mr. Parrette is entitled to receive the following separation incentives: (i) a lump sum severance payment of $909,000, (ii) a lump sum payment representing his annual incentive plan award for the 2020 fiscal year, (iii) a lump sum medical continuation payment of $10,250, (iv) a credit of $57,570 to his account in the Company’s defined contribution supplemental executive retirement plan, and (v) continued coverage under the Company’s group life insurance plan for up to 12 months from the separation date. Mr. Parrette’s grants under the Company’s long-term incentive plan for each applicable grant year, if any, will be treated as set forth in his severance agreement.


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PART III
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.
Our Directors
Our Board of Directors is currently comprised of nine directors. All of our directors were appointed by our sole shareholder, Hindalco. Our directors’ terms will expire at each annual shareholder meeting, provided that if an election of directors is not held at an annual shareholder meeting, the directors then in office shall continue in office or until their successors shall be elected. Biographical details for each of our directors set forth below are as of April 30, 2020.
 
NameDirector SinceAgePosition
Kumar Mangalam BirlaMay 15, 200752  Chairman of the Board
Askaran Agarwala(2)
May 15, 200786  Director
Debnarayan Bhattacharya(1)(2)
May 15, 200771  Director and Vice Chairman of the Board
Clarence J. Chandran(1)(2)
January 6, 200571  Director
Gary ComerfordFebruary 7, 202070  Director
Dr. Thomas M. Connelly, Jr.February 7, 202067  Director
Satish Pai(2)
August 6, 201358  Director
Vikas SehgalFebruary 7, 202045  Director
Donald A. Stewart(1)
May 15, 200773  Director
_________________________
(1) Member of our Audit Committee
(2) Member of our Compensation Committee
Mr. Kumar Mangalam Birla was elected as the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Novelis on May 15, 2007. Mr. Birla is the Chairman of Hindalco Industries Limited which is an industry leader in aluminum and copper. He is also the Chairman of Aditya Birla Group’s leading blue-chip companies including Grasim, UltraTech Cement, Vodafone Idea Limited, Aditya Birla Capital Limited and Aditya Birla Chemicals (Thailand) Limited. Mr. Birla also serves as director on the board of Aditya Birla Management Corporation Private Limited (as Executive Chairman), Air India Limited (as part-time non-official director), and the Group’s international companies spanning Thailand, Indonesia, Egypt, and Canada. Additionally, Mr. Birla is the Chancellor and member of the Board of Governors of the Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Pilani and Chairman of the Board of Governors Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad and Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi. He is a member of the London Business School’s Asia Pacific Advisory Board and a member of the National Council of the Confederation of Indian Industry. Mr. Birla’s past affiliations include service on the boards of Maruti Udyog Limited and Tata Iron and Steel Co. Limited. He was a Director on the Central Board of Directors of the Reserve Bank of India and part-time member on the Board of Securities and Exchange Board of India. He was Chairman of the Advisory Committee constituted by the Ministry of Company Affairs and served on the Prime Minister of India’s Advisory Council on Trade and Industry. A Commerce graduate of Bombay University, Mr. Birla is a Chartered Accountant, a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. He earned an MBA from the London Business School. Mr. Birla brings to the board significant global leadership experience acquired through his service as a director of numerous corporate, professional and regulatory entities in various regions of the world.
Mr. Askaran Agarwala has served as a Director of Hindalco since September 1998. He was Chairman of the Business Review Council of the Aditya Birla Group from October 2003 to March 2010. From 1982 to October 2003, he was President of Hindalco. Mr. Agarwala serves on the Compensation Committee of the Novelis Board of Directors. Mr. Agarwala also serves as a director of several other companies, including Hindalco, Udyog Services Ltd., Tanfac Industries Ltd., Aditya Birla Insurance Brokers Limited, Swiss Singapore Overseas Enterprises, Aditya Birla Power Company Limited and Aditya Birla Health Services Limited. He is a trustee of Sarla Basant Birla Param Bhakti Trust, Aditya Vikram Birla Memorial Trust and the Aditya Birla Foundation and the Hellen Keller Institute of the Deaf and Blind, among many other organizations. Mr. Agarwala’s past and current service as a director of several companies and industry associations in the metals and manufacturing industries adds valuable perspective to the board. Having served as president of our parent company, Hindalco, Mr. Agarwala also brings a depth of understanding of our business and operations.
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Mr. Debnarayan Bhattacharya is Vice Chairman of Novelis and serves on the Audit and Compensation Committees of the Novelis Board of Directors. He retired from his position as Managing Director of Hindalco in July 2016. Mr. Bhattacharya continues to serve as Non-Executive Director and Vice Chairman. He also serves as a director of Vodafone Idea Limited and NOCIL Limited. Mr. Bhattacharya’s extensive knowledge of the aluminum and metals industries provides a valuable resource to the company in the setting and implementation of its operating business plans as the Company considers various strategic alternatives. Mr. Bhattacharya brings to the board a high degree of financial literacy.
Clarence J. Chandran has been a director of the Company since 2005. Mr. Chandran serves on the Compensation and Audit Committees of the Novelis Board of Directors, and acts as the Chairman of the Compensation Committee. Mr. Chandran is senior advisor of 4Front Capital Partners Inc. He is a past director of Alcan Inc. and MDS Inc. He retired as Chief Operating Officer of Nortel Networks Corporation (communications) in 2001. Mr. Chandran is a past member of the Board of Visitors of the Pratt School of Engineering at Duke University. He has acquired years of significant experience through his leadership and management of companies with international business operations. Mr. Chandran brings to the board his deep knowledge in the areas of technology, sales and global operations.
Gary Comerford serves as President and CEO of CMC Global, a consulting company specializing in international expansion. He also serves as Vice Chair of the Canada India Business Council and Chair of the Board of Trustees of Brock University. From 2009 to 2014, Mr. Comerford was employed with the Reinsurance Group of America as Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. Prior to that, he was with Sun Life of Canada, where he held positions of increasing responsibility before retiring as Senior Vice President, International in 2009. Before joining Sun Life, Mr. Comerford held various roles at Canada Permanent Trust Company, including Vice President of Marketing. Mr. Comerford is Vice Chair of the Canada India Business Council, where he previously served as President and CEO. He is Chair of the Board of Trustees of Brock University. Mr. Comerford brings extensive financial management and operating experience to the board.
Dr. Thomas M. Connelly, Jr. has served as the Chief Executive Officer of the American Chemical Society since 2015. Previously, Dr. Connelly was employed by DuPont de Nemours, Inc., from 1977 to 2014, where he was responsible for the Applied BioSciences, Nutrition & Health, Performance Polymers, and Packaging & Industrial Polymers businesses. In addition, Dr. Connelly also had responsibility for Science & Technology, Integrated Operations, and geographic regions outside the United States. Dr. Connelly retired in 2014 as Executive Vice President and Chief Innovation Officer of DuPont, where he was a member of the company’s Office of the Chief Executive. Dr. Connelly serves on the Board of Grasim Industries Limited and brings to the board his deep knowledge in the areas of science and global operations.
Mr. Satish Pai has served as the Managing Director of Hindalco Industries Limited since August 2016. Mr. Pai previously served as served as Deputy Managing Director of Hindalco Industries Limited from February 2014 to May 2016, and as Chief Executive Officer - Aluminum Business of Hindalco Industries Limited from August 2013 to January 2014. Prior to that, Mr. Pai served as Executive Vice President, Worldwide Operations of Schlumberger Ltd. Mr. Pai joined Schlumberger Ltd. in 1985 as a field engineer and held various positions of increased responsibility over the course of his 28 year tenure with the company. He serves on the Compensation Committee of the Novelis Board of Directors and also serves as a director of Hindalco. Mr. Pai also serves as a Director of ABB Limited, Switzerland. Mr. Pai brings extensive industry and global operating experience to the board.
Mr. Vikas Sehgal is Executive Vice Chairman of Rothschild & Co. for the South & Southeast Asian region and also serves as Global Partner and Head of the Automotive sector. Prior to joining Rothschild & Co. in 2011, Mr. Sehgal was a partner at Booz & Company, where he worked from 1999 to 2010. Previously, he was employed as an engineer at the Ford Motor Company and Daewoo Motors. Mr. Sehgal has served the World Economic Forum as Chairman of the Global Agenda Council for Automotive and as a member of the Global Future Council for Mobility. He also served on the board of Houghton International and Infotech Engineering. Mr. Sehgal currently serves as a director of Cyient Limited. Mr. Sehgal also brings a depth of understanding of our business, operations and the global automotive industry which we serve.
Donald A. Stewart serves as Chairman of the Audit Committee of the Novelis Board of Directors. He retired as Chief Executive Officer and Director of Sun Life Financial Inc. and Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada. Mr. Stewart continues to serve as a director of Sun Life Everbright Life Insurance Company Limited. He is the Chairman of AV Group NB Inc., AV Terrace Bay Inc. and of the federal-provincial Nominating Committee for the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board. Mr. Stewart brings extensive financial management and operating experience to the board.
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Our Executive Officers
The following table sets forth information for persons serving as executive officers of our Company. Biographical details for each of our executive officers set forth below are as of April 30, 2020.
NameAgePosition
Steven Fisher49President and Chief Executive Officer
Devinder Ahuja54Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Tom Boney54Senior Vice President and President, Novelis North America
Emilio Braghi52Senior Vice President and President, Novelis Europe
Christopher Courts42Interim General Counsel, Corporate Secretary and Compliance Officer
Philippe Meyer61Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer
Randal Miller57Vice President, Treasurer
Roxana Molina59Senior Vice President and Chief Procurement Officer
Antonio Tadeu Coelho Nardocci62Senior Vice President and Chief Manufacturing Officer
Marco Palmieri63Senior Vice President and Chief Integration Officer
Francisco Pires51Senior Vice President and President, Novelis South America
Stephanie Rauls51Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer
Sachin Satpute54Senior Vice President and President, Novelis Asia
H.R. Shashikant57Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer
Steven Fisher has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer since 2015. Mr. Fisher joined the company in 2006 as Vice President, Strategic Planning and Corporate Development and served as our Chief Financial Officer from 2007 to 2015. Prior to joining Novelis, Mr. Fisher served as Vice President and Controller for TXU Energy, the non-regulated subsidiary of TXU Corp., at its headquarters in Dallas, Texas. Mr. Fisher is a member of the Business Roundtable, an association of leading U.S. companies working to promote sound public policy. In addition, he is a member of the Board of Directors for the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Fisher received a Bachelor's Degree in Finance and Accounting from the University of Iowa.
Devinder Ahuja is our Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, and has served in this role since August 2016. Before joining Novelis, Mr. Ahuja spent 15 years at Novartis Group, where he served most recently as Chief Financial Officer of the Alcon Division’s North America business. Prior to that, Mr. Ahuja held positions of increasing responsibility at Novartis covering the areas of finance, strategic planning, supply chain and purchasing. During his career, Mr. Ahuja has held various finance leadership roles including posts in Switzerland, South Korea, Japan and India. Mr. Ahuja holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the RA Podar College of Commerce and Economics in Mumbai, India and is a Chartered Accountant.
Tom Boney has served as our Senior Vice President and President, Novelis North America since April 14, 2020. Mr. Boney joined Novelis in 2006 as plant manager at the Oswego, New York facility. Since then, he has served in various roles of increasing responsibility, including President, Novelis Europe Rolling and Recycling; Vice President, Manufacturing Excellence; and Managing Director of Aluminum Company of Malaysia. Mr. Boney most recently served as Chief Operating Officer of Novelis North America. Prior to joining Novelis, Mr. Boney spent 19 years with Alcoa Corporation. He holds a bachelor's degree in finance from St. Bonaventure University and a Master's Degree in Management from Penn State University.
Emilio Braghi has served as our Senior Vice President and President, Novelis Europe since September 2016. Previously, he served as Vice President, Operations, Novelis North America, since February 2015. Mr. Braghi joined Novelis in 1999 as Sales Manager, Europe. During his tenure, he has taken on many leadership roles of increasing responsibility and moved into his first general management role in 2006, when he was named head of Novelis' business in Italy. Mr. Braghi went on to hold multiple general management leadership positions with Novelis' Litho and Painted Products value streams in Europe, directing both commercial and operational activities and he joined the Asia leadership team in March 2012 as Vice President of Operations. In addition, Mr. Braghi serves as Chairman of the European Aluminum industry association. Mr. Braghi holds a degree in Engineering and Industrial Production Technologies from Politecnico di Milano in Milan, Italy.
Christopher Courts has served as our interim General Counsel, Secretary and Compliance Officer since March 2020. Previously, Mr. Courts served as the company’s Vice President, Deputy General Counsel from January 2016 to March 2020. Mr. Courts joined Novelis in January 2005 and over the years has had oversight for various aspects of the legal function. Prior to joining Novelis, Mr. Courts served as Senior Corporate Counsel for Aquila, Inc., a former Fortune 50 electric and gas utility energy company. Prior to that, he was a corporate associate at the Husch Blackwell law firm. Mr. Courts holds a B.B.A in Finance and a J.D., both from the University of Iowa.
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Philippe Meyer joined Novelis as Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer upon our acquisition of Aleris in April 2020. Prior to the acquisition, Mr. Meyer had served as Aleris’ Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer since 2015 and prior to that as Vice President and Chief Technology Officer from 2012 to 2015. Before joining Aleris, Mr. Meyer spent 22 years at Montupet, an aluminum automotive foundry company, in various roles of increasing responsibility, including R&D and Technical Director. Mr. Meyer holds a Master's degree from Ecole Nationale Superieure des Mines de Paris, France.
Randal P. Miller is our Vice President, Treasurer. Prior to joining Novelis in July 2008, Mr. Miller served as Vice President and Treasurer of Transocean Offshore Deepwater Drilling from May 2006 to November 2007 where he was responsible for all treasury, banking, and capital markets activities for Transocean and its subsidiaries. From 2001 to 2006, Mr. Miller served as Vice President Finance, Treasurer of Aquila, Inc. Mr. Miller earned his Bachelor of Science from Iowa State University and Masters of Business Administration from the University of Missouri - Kansas City.
Roxana Molina joined Novelis in March 2020 as Senior Vice President and Chief Procurement Officer. Prior to joining Novelis, Ms. Molina was employed by Ford Motor Company in Dearborn, Michigan, since 1995. At Ford, Ms. Molina held various leadership roles in the United States, Europe and Brazil, most recently serving as Global Purchasing Director, Engine and Powertrain Installations. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering from Universidad de Lima, a Master's Degree in Business Administration from the University of Texas at Austin, and an Associate of Science, Research on truck body design from Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology.
Antonio Tadeu Coelho Nardocci has served as our Senior Vice President and Chief Manufacturing Officer since June 2019. Prior to that, Mr. Nardocci served as our Senior Vice President and President, Novelis South America since May 2013. Mr. Nardocci has also served as our Senior Vice President and President, Novelis Europe and as our Vice President of Strategy, Innovation and Technology. Before our spin-off from Alcan, Mr. Nardocci held a number of leadership positions with Alcan, including as President of Rolled Products South America from March 2002 until January 2005. Mr. Nardocci graduated from the University of São Paulo in Brazil with a degree in metallurgy. Mr. Nardocci served as Chairman of the Brazilian Aluminum Association Board in 2018 and 2019.
Marco Palmieri has served as our Senior Vice President and Chief Integration Officer since April 2019. Mr. Palmieri previously served as our Senior Vice President and President, Novelis North America from June 2013 to April 2019. Prior to that, he served as our Senior Vice President and President, Novelis South America since 2011. Before joining Novelis, Mr. Palmieri was most recently Aluminum Business Director for Votorantim Metais Ltd. He has spent more than 30 years in the metals and engineering industries, including more than 25 years with Rio Tinto Alcan, where he held a succession of international leadership positions in various areas, including business development, primary metal and energy production. Mr. Palmieri is Chairman of the Board of the Aluminum Association.
Francisco Pires has served as our President, Novelis South America since June 2019. Mr. Pires joined Novelis South America in 2012 as Director of Procurement. In 2013, he assumed the position of Director, Procurement and Supply Chain. In 2014, he was appointed Vice President, Commercial, followed by his appointment as Chief Operating Officer in 2018. Prior to joining Novelis, Mr. Pires held positions of increasing responsibility with Fibria, Votorantim Cellulose & Paper, Maxlog and Bureau Veritas. He is a graduate in naval engineering from Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro and has a Master of Science in Business Administration from COPPEAD.
Stephanie Rauls has served as our Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer since February 2016. Ms. Rauls previously served as our Vice President of Global Tax since December 2013. Prior to joining Novelis, Ms. Rauls was Vice President, Tax at Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. from 2011 to 2013, and prior to that, she was employed by GE Healthcare as a tax director from 2002 to 2011. Before joining GE Healthcare, Ms. Rauls was employed by KPMG LLP from 1994 to 2002. She earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a Juris Doctor from Valparaiso University School of Law. Ms. Rauls is a Certified Public Accountant.
Sachin Satpute is Senior Vice President and President, Novelis Asia and has served in this role since June 2016. He previously served as Chief Marketing Officer for Hindalco Industries since 2012, and was Managing Director of Aluminum Company of Malaysia (ALCOM) from April 2011 until June 2012. Prior to his most recent role with Hindalco, Mr. Satpute spent five years with Novelis in various roles of increasing responsibility. Mr. Satpute began his career at a Hindalco aluminum plant in 1987 as a development engineer. In addition to a degree in mechanical engineering from Pune University, Mr. Satpute also holds an MBA in marketing from Mumbai University, India.
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H.R. Shashikant has served as our Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer since August 2015. In this role, Mr. Shashikant is responsible for the formulation and implementation of the company's worldwide human resources objectives, policies and practices. As the head of the global Human Resources function, he has responsibility for Talent Acquisition and Development, Compensation, Benefits, HRIS and Global Security. Before joining Novelis, Mr. Shashikant was Group Executive President, Group Human Resources, for the Aditya Birla Group, the Mumbai-based conglomerate of which Novelis is a part. He joined the Aditya Birla Group as a Vice President in 1999 and was instrumental in setting up HR systems, processes, and Centers of Excellence across the Group. An Economics graduate from Karnataka University in Dharwad, India, Mr. Shashikant holds a post graduate degree in Personnel Management from the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai.
Board of Directors and Corporate Governance Matters
We are committed to our corporate governance practices, which we believe are essential to our success and to the enhancement of shareholder value. We are subject to a variety of corporate governance and disclosure requirements. Our corporate governance practices meet applicable regulatory requirements to ensure transparency and effective governance of the company.
Our Board of Directors reviews corporate governance practices in light of developing requirements in this field. As new provisions come into effect, our Board of Directors will reassess our corporate governance practices and implement changes as and when appropriate. The following is an overview of our corporate governance practices.
Novelis Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors currently has nine members, all of whom are appointed by our sole shareholder. Our Board of Directors has the responsibility for stewardship of Novelis Inc., including the responsibility to ensure that we are managed in the interest of our sole shareholder, while taking into account the interests of other stakeholders. Our Board of Directors supervises the management of our business and affairs and discharges its duties and obligations in accordance with the provisions of: (1) our articles of incorporation and bylaws; (2) the charters of its committees and (3) other applicable laws and company policies.
Our corporate governance practices require that, in addition to certain statutory duties, the following matters be subject to our Board of Directors’ approval: (1) capital expenditure budgets and significant investments and divestments; (2) our strategic plans; (3) the number of directors within the limits provided by our by-laws and (4) any matter which may have the potential for substantial impact on Novelis. Our Board of Directors reviews its composition and size once a year. Senior management makes regular presentations to our Board of Directors on the main areas of our business.
Corporate Governance
Interested parties may communicate with the Board of Directors, a committee or an individual director by writing to Novelis Inc., Two Alliance Center, 3560 Lenox Road N.E., Suite 2000, Atlanta, GA 30326, Attention: Corporate Secretary - Board Communication. All such communications will be compiled by the Corporate Secretary and submitted to the appropriate director or board committee. The Corporate Secretary will reply or take other actions in accordance with instructions from the applicable board contact.
Committees of Our Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors has established two standing committees: the Audit Committee and the Compensation Committee. Each committee is governed by its own charter. According to their authority as set out in their charters, the committees may engage outside advisors at the expense of Novelis.
Audit Committee and Financial Experts
Our Board of Directors has established an Audit Committee. Messrs. Stewart, Bhattacharya and Chandran are the members of the Audit Committee. Mr. Stewart, an independent director, has been identified as an "audit committee financial expert" as that term is defined in the rules and regulations of the SEC.
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Our Audit Committee’s main objective is to assist our Board of Directors in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities for the integrity of our financial statements, our compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, the qualifications and independence of our independent registered public accounting firm and the performance of both our internal audit function and our independent registered public accounting firm. Under the Audit Committee charter, the Audit Committee is responsible for, among other matters:
evaluating and compensating our independent registered public accounting firm;
making recommendations to the Board of Directors and shareholder relating to the appointment, retention and termination of our independent registered public accounting firm;
discussing with our independent registered public accounting firm its qualifications and independence from management;
reviewing with our independent registered public accounting firm the scope and results of its audit;
pre-approving all audit and permissible non-audit services to be performed by our independent registered public accounting firm;
reviewing areas of potential significant financial risk and the steps taken to monitor and manage such exposures;
overseeing the financial reporting process and discussing with management and our independent registered public accounting firm the interim and annual financial statements that we file with the SEC; and
reviewing and monitoring our accounting principles, accounting policies and disclosure, internal control over financial reporting and disclosure controls and procedures.
Compensation Committee
Our Compensation Committee establishes our general compensation philosophy and oversees the development and implementation of compensation policies and programs. It also reviews and approves the level of and/or changes in the compensation of individual executive officers taking into consideration individual performance and competitive compensation practices. The committee’s specific roles and responsibilities are set out in its charter. Our Compensation Committee periodically reviews the effectiveness of our overall management organization structure and succession planning for senior management, reviews recommendations for the appointment of executive officers, and reviews annually the development process for high potential employees.
Code of Conduct and Guidelines for Ethical Behavior
Novelis has adopted a Code of Conduct and maintains a Code of Ethics for Senior Financial Officers that applies to our senior financial officers including our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer, or persons performing similar functions. Copies of the Code of Conduct and the Code of Ethics for Senior Financial Officers are available on our website at www.novelis.com. We will promptly disclose any future amendments to these codes on our website as well as any waivers from these codes for executive officers and directors. Copies of these codes are also available in print from our Corporate Secretary upon request.


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Item 11.  Executive Compensation.
This section provides a discussion of the background and objectives of our compensation programs for our named executive officers and other senior management employees. Our named executive officers are determined in accordance with rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Named Executive Officer
Title
Steven FisherPresident and Chief Executive Officer
Devinder AhujaSenior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer
Emilio BraghiSenior Vice President and President, Novelis Europe
Marco PalmieriSenior Vice President and Chief Integration Officer
Sachin SatputeSenior Vice President and President, Novelis Asia
Leslie Parrette
Former Senior Vice President, General Counsel, Compliance Officer and Corporate Secretary(1)
_________________________
(1)Mr. Parrette separated from Novelis on March 18, 2020, and entered into a severance and release agreement on March 20, 2020.
Compensation Committee and Role of Management
The Compensation Committee of our board of directors (the Committee) is responsible for approving compensation programs for our named executive officers and making decisions regarding specific compensation to be paid or awarded to them. The Committee acts pursuant to a charter approved by our board. Our Chief Human Resources Officer serves as the primary management liaison officer for the Committee. Our human resources and legal departments provide assistance to the Committee in the administration of the Committee’s responsibilities.
Our named executive officers have no direct role in setting their own compensation. The Committee, however, meets with members of our management team to evaluate performance against pre-established goals, and management makes recommendations to the board regarding budgets, production and sales forecasts and other information, which affect certain goals. The Committee may seek input from our senior management concerning individual performance, expected future contributions and compensation matters generally.
Management assists the Committee by providing information needed or requested by the Committee (such as our performance against budget and objectives, historical compensation, compensation expense, current Company policies and programs, country-specific compensation practices, peer group metrics and peer group target pay levels) and by providing input and advice regarding potential changes to compensation programs and policies and their impact on the Company and its executives.
The Committee (1) meets annually and reviews prior year performance and approves the distribution of short-term incentive and long term incentive earned payouts, if any, for the prior year, (2) reviews and approves base pay and short term incentive targets for executives for the current year, and (3) recommends to the board of directors the form of long term-incentive award vehicles and vesting performance criteria for the current cycle of the program. The Committee may employ alternative practices when appropriate under the circumstances.
The Committee did not independently engage a third party compensation consultant in fiscal 2020. However, management worked with Mercer LLC (a global human resource consulting firm) to evaluate and benchmark our executive compensation program, and management shared Mercer’s analysis with the Committee. Management also routinely reviews compensation surveys and other materials published by other leading global human resources consulting firms to help ensure internal equity and external competitiveness of pay opportunities based on the scope and complexity of executive roles.
For executive compensation benchmarking purposes, we focus on large global companies headquartered in the southeastern United States with whom Novelis may compete for executive talent, as well as other major companies in the manufacturing and materials sectors having revenues in excess of $2 billion. The companies that comprise our peer group may change from year to year as a result of merger and acquisition activity or revenue growth of relevant companies that moves such companies into consideration. The peer group considered in management’s most recent compensation competitive analysis consisted of the following companies:
AGCO CorpAshland Global Holdings Inc.Kennametal Inc.
Air Products & Chemicals Inc.Berry Plastics Group Inc.Linde PLC
Alcoa CorpEastman Chemical CoNewell Brands Inc.
Altria Group Inc.Genuine Parts CoPPG Industries Inc.
Arconic CorpIngersoll-Rand PLCSouthern Company
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The Committee retains discretion to set an individual executive’s compensation. As a result, compensation for an executive may differ significantly from the survey or peer group data and may be influenced by factors including past performance, experience and potential, retention needs, job position and/or tenure. In addition, macroeconomic conditions may influence compensation decisions, including incentive pay decisions, as the Committee aligns its focus with the financial needs of the business in times of distress.
Objectives and Design of Our Compensation Program
Our executive compensation program is designed to attract, retain, and reward talented executives who will contribute to our long-term financial and operational success and thereby build value for our shareholder. The Committee did not make any material changes to our compensation philosophy for fiscal 2020. The program is organized around three fundamental principles:
Provide Total Cash and Total Direct Compensation Opportunities that are Competitive: To enable us to attract, motivate and retain qualified executives to build long-term shareholder value, total cash compensation (base pay plus annual short-term incentives) and total direct compensation (total cash compensation plus the value of long-term incentives) opportunities for each executive are targeted at levels to be market competitive and also be appropriately positioned within the Company to ensure internal equity based on the scope and complexity of the role as it is designed at Novelis.
A Substantial Portion of Total Direct Compensation Should be at Risk Because it is Performance-Based: We believe an executive’s actual compensation should be linked directly to the Company’s short-term and long-term financial performance and each individual’s annual contribution. Consequently, a substantial portion of an executive’s total direct compensation should be at risk, with amounts that are paid dependent on actual performance against pre-established objectives for both the individual and financial goals of the Company. The portion of an individual’s total direct compensation that is based upon these performance objectives and financial goals should increase as the individual’s business responsibilities and job scope increase. Additionally, we believe performance that exceeds target goals should be appropriately rewarded and aligned with prevalent market practices.
A Substantial Portion of Total Direct Compensation Should be Delivered in the Form of Long-Term Performance Based Awards: We believe a long-term stake in the sustained financial performance of Novelis effectively aligns executive and shareholder interests and provides motivation for enhancing shareholder value.
The Committee recognizes that the engagement of top talent in critical functions may require the recruitment of new executives and involve negotiations with individual candidates. As a result, the Committee may determine in a particular situation that it is in the Company’s best interests to negotiate a compensation package that varies from the principles set forth above.
Key Elements of Our Compensation Program
Our compensation program consists of four key elements: base pay, short-term (annual) incentives, long-term incentives, and employee benefits. The Committee reviews these compensation elements annually. The Committee also compares the competitiveness of these key elements to that of companies in our peer group and/or to available compensation survey market data. Our objective for named executive officer compensation is to be at or near the market median (50th percentile) for both target total cash compensation and total direct compensation.
Base Pay. Based on market practices, we believe it is appropriate that a minimum portion of total direct compensation be provided in a form that is fixed and recognizes individual performance in the prior fiscal year. Any changes in base salaries are generally effective July 1 of the current year, unless an executive is promoted or assumes a new role during the fiscal year. The Committee’s objective is to position base salaries for the named executive officers at or near the median of comparable positions at companies in our peer group.
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Short-Term (Annual) Cash Incentives. We believe that an annual incentive opportunity is necessary to attract, retain and reward our executives. Our philosophy concerning annual incentive program design for executives is based on the guiding values below:
Annual incentives should be directly linked with and clearly communicate the strategic priorities approved by our board of directors.
Annual incentives should be primarily weighted on the achievement of Company-wide financial goals.
Annual incentives should be 100% at-risk, and there should be a minimum financial performance threshold that must be attained to receive any payout.
Performance goals should be sufficiently ambitious to drive enterprise value creation, but also be based on metrics that executives can meaningfully influence over the annual time frame, and payouts should not be concentrated on a single metric.
Threshold, target and maximum opportunity payouts (as a percent of salary) should be comparable with opportunity payouts of executives in other benchmark companies or industries.
The Committee retains the discretion to adjust, up or down, annual incentives earned based on the Committee’s subjective assessment of individual performance.
Our Committee and board of directors, after input from management, approved our fiscal 2020 annual incentive plan (2020 AIP) during the first quarter of fiscal 2020. The performance benchmarks for the year were tied to four key metrics: (1) the Company’s earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) performance (ranging from 60% to 200% of target); (2) the Company’s free cash flow, as adjusted for inventory days for all executives except Mr. Parrette (ranging from 37.5% to 200% of target); (3) the executive’s individual performance in recognition of each individual’s unique job responsibilities and annual objectives (ranging from 0% to 200% of target); and (4) global safety (ranging from 50% to 200% of target).
No 2020 AIP bonuses are payable with respect to any of the three incentive metrics unless overall Novelis EBITDA performance for fiscal 2020 achieves at least 75% of the financial target. Actual performance below the threshold for a particular metric results in no payout for that metric.
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The table below displays the 2020 AIP target and actual performance for each goal and the amount earned based on actual performance rounded to the nearest whole dollar.
Name
Target Bonus as Percentage of Salary(1)
Performance Objective(2)
Performance WeightingTargeted Performance ($)Actual Performance ($)
Steven Fisher128 %EBITDA40 %535,557  708,254  
Cash Flow35 %468,613  773,896  
Personal15 %200,834  241,001  
Safety10 %133,889  66,945  
100 %1,338,893  1,790,096  
Devinder Ahuja85 %EBITDA40 %210,800  278,775  
Cash Flow35 %184,450  304,612  
Personal15 %79,050  94,860  
Safety10 %52,700  26,350  
100 %527,000  704,597  
Emilio Braghi65 %EBITDA40 %127,500  168,614  
Cash Flow35 %111,563  184,241  
Personal15 %47,813  57,375  
Safety10 %31,875  15,938  
100 %318,751  426,168  
Marco Palmieri65%EBITDA40 %137,917  182,390  
Cash Flow35 %120,677  199,294  
Personal15 %51,719  51,719  
Safety10 %34,479  17,240  
100 %344,792  450,643  
Sachin Satpute60 %EBITDA40 %90,400  119,551  
Cash Flow35 %79,100  130,631  
Personal15 %33,900  40,680  
Safety10 %22,600  11,300  
100 %226,000  302,162  
Leslie Parrette68 %EBITDA40 %163,653  216,425  
Cash Flow35 %143,196  262,760  
Personal15 %61,370  61,370  
Safety10 %40,913  20,456  
100 %409,132  561,011  
_________________________ 
(1)Target bonus percentages and amounts are adjusted for any mid-year changes.
(2)Fiscal 2020 AIP performance metric definitions are set forth in the 2020 AIP.
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Long-Term Incentives. We believe a long-term incentive program that comprises a substantial portion of each executive’s total direct compensation opportunity is necessary to reward our executives. Our philosophy concerning long-term incentive design for executives is based on the guiding values below:
Long-term incentives should motivate achievement of long-term strategic and financial goals and incentivize actions that are intended to create sustainable value for our shareholder.
Long-term incentives should be designed to effectively retain valuable executive talent.
Long-term incentives should create a clear and understandable platform for wealth creation that is tied closely with the long-term performance of Novelis and our parent, Hindalco Industries.
A majority of the long-term incentive award value should be at risk and tied to financial performance.
Vesting schedules should span several years to reward long-term service.
The value of long-term incentives as a percent of salary should be competitive with opportunity payouts of executives in other benchmark companies or industries.
During the first quarter of fiscal 2020, the Committee authorized a long-term incentive plan covering fiscal years 2020 through 2022 (2020 LTIP). Under the 2020 LTIP, participants were awarded three types of long-term incentive vehicles. Twenty percent of our named executives' total long-term incentive opportunity consists of Hindalco stock appreciation rights (Hindalco SARs), thirty percent of a participant's total long-term incentive opportunity consists of Hindalco restricted stock units (Hindalco RSUs) and the remaining 50% consists of Novelis Performance Units (Novelis PUs).
For additional information, see the table below setting forth grants of plan-based awards in fiscal 2020. The Committee approved the fiscal 2020 long-term incentive awards for our named executive officers.
Hindalco SARs awarded in fiscal 2020 have seven-year terms and vest at a rate of 33.33% per year measured from the initial grant date, provided the Company achieves the 75% EBITDA threshold for the year. If the EBITDA threshold is not achieved, then the portion of the SARs that would otherwise vest for that year will be forfeited. Each SAR is to be settled in cash at the time of exercise based on the appreciation in value of one Hindalco share from the date of award through the date of exercise. Payout of Hindalco SARs is limited to three times the award value. SARs do not transfer any shareholder rights to a participant, and dividend equivalents are neither accumulated nor paid at any time.
Hindalco RSUs awarded in fiscal 2020 vest at a rate of 33.33% per year, measured from the date of the award, and are not subject to performance criteria. Payout of Hindalco RSUs is also limited to three times the award value. RSUs do not transfer any shareholder rights to a participant, and dividend equivalents are neither accumulated nor paid at any time.
Novelis PUs vest on the third anniversary following the date of award. At the time of vesting, the number of units earned will be calculated based on the Company’s average return on capital employed (ROCE) during fiscal years 2020 through 2022. Actual payout will range from 50% (threshold) to 200% (maximum) of target award value, based on actual results, and will be paid in cash. Performance results between threshold level and target level or between target level and maximum level are determined by means of interpolation.
The table below shows the aggregate target long-term incentive of our named executive officers under the 2020 LTIP. The Indian Rupee exchange rate is fixed on the date of the LTIP award so that the awards are not subject to fluctuating currency exchange rates.
Named Executive Officer
2020 LTIP Target Award ($)
Steven Fisher$5,300,000  
Devinder Ahuja$1,000,000  
Emilio Braghi$750,000  
Marco Palmieri$760,000  
Sachin Satpute$600,000  
Leslie Parrette$750,000  


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Employee Benefits. Our named executive officers are eligible to participate in our broad-based retirement, health and welfare, and other employee benefit plans on the same basis as other Company employees. In addition to these broad-based plans, some of our named executive officers may be eligible for certain non-qualified retirement benefits, which are designed to provide levels of retirement benefits that are limited under broad-based retirement plan caps mandated by certain regulatory restrictions on highly-compensated employees. Our named executive officers are also eligible for certain personal benefits consistent with market practice. We do not view our executive personal benefits as a significant element of our overall compensation structure. See the All Other Compensation column and related footnotes to the Summary Compensation Table for further information about personal benefits.
Employment-Related Agreements
Retention Agreements. We may enter into retention agreements from time to time with certain key employees, including our named executive officers. These retention agreements are intended to supplement our long-term incentive program and sometimes are entered into to reflect changes in responsibilities or other special circumstances. Retention amounts are paid in cash provided the employee remains employed with the Company through the applicable vesting date. In most cases, the retention awards vest ratably over a pre-determined retention period. If the employee voluntarily terminates employment or is terminated by the Company for cause prior to the expiration date of the retention award, the employee will be required to repay any payments made under the agreement in the previous 12 months and will be not be entitled to any other payments under the retention agreement. If an employee is terminated involuntarily without cause, any unpaid cash installments under the retention agreement will be forfeited. Any amounts paid to our named executive officers under a retention award during fiscal 2020 are shown in the Summary Compensation Table. Mr. Ahuja received a retention payment of $67,000 and Mr. Palmieri received a retention payment of $150,000 during fiscal 2020. No other named executives received a retention payout.
Change in Control Severance. Each of our named executive officers is a participant in the Novelis Inc. Change in Control Severance Plan (the CIC Plan). The Plan was adopted effective July 1, 2018 and replaced the individual agreements previously in place between the Company and our executives. Under the CIC Plan, the executive will be entitled to certain payments and benefits if the executive’s employment is terminated by the Company without cause, or by the executive for good reason, within three months before or 24 months following a change in control of the Company. The change in control severance payment under the CIC Plan is equal to 2.0 times the sum of the executive’s annual base salary and annual bonus and is paid payable in a lump sum within 30 days following an executive’s termination of employment. The CIC Plan also provides that the executive will receive (i) payment of the executive’s target short-term incentive (prorated, as applicable) for the year of termination; (ii) a payment to assist with post-employment medical coverage equal to 24 months of the full premium of the executive’s then-current level of coverage; (iii) continuation of coverage under the Company’s group life insurance plan for a period of 24 months; and (iv) 24 months of additional credit for benefit accrual or contribution purposes and accelerated vesting, if applicable, under our retirement plans.
Severance Compensation Arrangements. In fiscal 2020, we had severance arrangements with our named executive officers, with the exception of Mr. Braghi and Mr. Satpute, which provide that the executive will be entitled to certain payments and benefits if his employment is terminated by the Company without cause. Severance amounts are payable in a lump sum. Each agreement also contains a noncompetition and non-solicitation provision, which prohibits the executive from competing with us or soliciting our customers, suppliers or employees for a period of 18 months following termination (or 24 months in the case of Mr. Fisher). An executive may be required to sign a general release of claims against the Company as a condition to receiving the payments and benefits described above. See the Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control table below for further information.

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Compensation Risk Assessment
In fiscal 2020, the Committee reviewed the Company’s executive compensation policies and practices, and determined that the Company’s executive compensation programs are not reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on the Company. Our compensation programs contain design features that mitigate the incentive for our employees, including named executive officers, to take unreasonable risks in managing the business, which include:
An appropriate balance between short-term and long-term incentive compensation with multiple time horizons;
Short-term incentives that require minimum financial performance to achieve any payouts and also set capped maximum payouts at 200% of target;
Short-term incentive payouts that are tied to multiple performance factors with no one performance factor having excessive weighting;
Long-term incentives with multi-year vesting schedules, which reward employees for long-term performance;
Goals that are not unreasonable and that are approved by the Committee on an annual basis and goals with no excessive payout opportunities at certain performance levels that may encourage short-term decisions and actions to meet payout thresholds;
Oversight of the compensation programs by the Committee and multiple functions within the Company and at various levels within the functions to gain different viewpoints and prevent a small number of people to be exclusively involved in compensation decisions; and
Advice from expert outside advisors regarding the design of the compensation program.
Based on its review, the Committee determined that the Company’s compensation programs do not encourage excessive risk and instead encourage behaviors that support sustainable value creation.
Compensation Committee Report
The Committee has reviewed and discussed the foregoing Compensation Discussion and Analysis with management. Based on the Committee’s review and discussions with management, the Committee recommended to the board of directors that the Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal 2020.
The foregoing report is provided by the following directors, who constitute the Committee:
Mr. Clarence J. Chandran, Chairman
Mr. Debnarayan Bhattacharya
Mr. Askaran Agarwala
Mr. Satish Pai

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Summary Compensation Table
The table below sets forth information regarding compensation for our named executive officers for fiscal 2020 and the two prior fiscal years, as applicable. Any amounts paid to our named executive officers in a foreign currency are reflected in the table below and elsewhere in U.S. dollars as adjusted by the March 31, 2020 exchange rate.
NameFiscal YearSalary ($)Bonus ($)
Stock Awards ($)(1)
Options Awards ($)(1)
Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation ($) Change in Pension Value ($)
All Other Compensation ($)(8)
Total Compensation ($)
Steven Fisher20201,035,577  —  1,440,000  1,460,000  
5,030,096(2)
—  280,734  9,246,407  
2019971,154  —  1,050,000  1,200,000  9,211,068—  654,373  13,086,595  
2018865,385  —  972,000  1,148,000  1,472,772—  542,055  5,000,212  
Devinder Ahuja2020608,461  —  300,000  200,000  
1,204,598(3)
—  226,482  2,539,541  
2019562,692  —  204,000  136,000  1,163,812—  276,992  2,343,496  
2018514,231  429,292  150,000  100,000  607,005—  239,872  2,040,400  
Emilio Braghi2020484,104  —  225,000  150,000  
906,168(4)
—  467,154  2,232,426  
2019382,855  —  210,000  140,000  1,060,693—  461,446  2,254,994  
2018394,247  —  144,000  96,000  342,418—  611,687  1,588,352  
Marco Palmieri
2020525,993  —  228,000  152,000  
1,210,643(5)
—  289,884  2,406,520  
2019510,673  —  228,000  152,000  2,729,747—  519,887  4,140,307  
2018536,784  —  228,000  152,000  480,209—  1,781,999  3,178,992  
Sachin Satpute2020367,337  —  180,000  120,000  
782,162(6)
39,434  607,553  2,096,486  
Leslie Parrette2020599,507  —  225,000  150,000  
1,222,211(7)
—  1,124,046  3,320,764  
2019583,396  —  225,000  150,000  2,901,817—  241,588  4,101,801  
2018567,176  —  210,000  140,000  638,770—  259,612  1,815,558  
_________________________ 
(1)These amounts reflect Hindalco RSUs and Hindalco SARs granted under our LTIP.
(2)This amount includes the cash awards Mr. Fisher earned as follows: $1,790,096 under the 2020 AIP and $3,240,000 for the Novelis PUs granted in fiscal year 2018.
(3)This amount includes the cash awards Mr. Ahuja earned as follows: $704,598 under the 2020 AIP and $500,000 for the Novelis PUs granted in fiscal year 2018.
(4)This amount includes the cash awards Mr. Braghi earned as follows: $426,168 under the 2020 AIP and $480,000 for the Novelis PUs granted in fiscal year 2018.
(5)This amount includes the cash awards Mr. Palmieri earned as follows: $450,643 under the 2020 AIP and $760,000 for the Novelis PUs granted in fiscal year 2018.
(6)This amount includes the cash awards Mr. Satpute earned as follows: $302,162 under the 2020 AIP and $480,000 for the Novelis PUs granted in fiscal year 2018.
(7)This amount includes the cash awards Mr. Parrette earned as follows: $561,011 under the 2020 AIP and $661,200 for the Novelis PUs granted in fiscal year 2018.
(8)The amounts shown in this column reflect the values from the table below.

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All Other Compensation Table
Name
Company Contribution to Defined Contribution Plans and Nonqualified Plans ($)
Group Life Insurance ($)(1)
Retention Payments ($)(2)
Relocation, Assignee and Housing Related Payments ($)
Other Perquisites and Personal Benefits ($)
Other Payments ($)
Total ($)
Steven Fisher209,225  5,688  —  —  
65,821(5)
280,734  
Devinder Ahuja103,727  3,355  67,000  —  
52,400(6)
226,482  
Emilio Braghi89,453  —  —  
258,899(3)
118,802(7)
467,154  
Marco Palmieri81,546  2,952  150,000  —  
55,386(8)
289,884  
Sachin Satpute—  —  —  
583,130(4)
24,423(9)
607,553  
Leslie Parrette153,423  3,373  —  —  
48,000(10)
919,250(11)
1,124,046  
________________________ 
(1)This amount represents additional Company-paid life insurance for named executive officers beyond the regular employee coverage.
(2)These amounts represent payments pursuant to retention agreements as detailed above under Employee Related Agreements.
(3)This amount includes $130,242 for expatriate expenses and $128,657 related to tax payments for foreign assignment.
(4)This amount includes $110,136 for expatriate expenses and $472,994 related to tax payments for foreign assignment.
(5)This amount includes $60,000 flex allowance. The remaining amount is comprised of payments for an executive physical and a home security system.
(6)This amount includes $50,000 flex allowance. The remaining amount is comprised of payments for a home security system.
(7)This amount includes $51,570 child tuition reimbursement and family allowance. The remaining amount is comprised of payments for health care premiums, automobile lease allowance, individual tax planning, meal allowance and other compensation related to international assignment.
(8)This amount includes $50,000 flex allowance. The remaining amount is comprised of an executive physical and a home security system.
(9)This amount includes $21,593 auto lease and $2,829 for other compensation related to assignment.
(10)This amount includes $48,000 flex allowance.
(11)This amount includes $909,000 severance payment. The remaining amount is comprised of a payment for continued medical coverage. Mr. Parrette separated from Novelis on March 18, 2020, and entered into a severance and release agreement. See Item 9B of this Form 10-K for additional information.

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Grants of Plan-Based Awards in Fiscal 2020
The table below sets forth information regarding grants of plan-based awards made to our named executive officers during fiscal 2020 pursuant to our 2020 AIP and 2020 LTIP.
NameGrant Date
Estimated Future Payout Under Non-Equity Incentive Plan Awards
All Other Stock Awards:
Number of Shares or Stock Units
All Other Option Awards:
Number of Securities Underlying Options
Award TypeExercise or Base Price of Option Awards ($/Sh)Grant Date Fair Value of Stock and Option Awards (S)
Threshold ($)Target ($)Maximum ($)
Steven Fisher5/6/2019564,009  1,338,893  2,677,787  —  —  AIP  —  —  
5/6/2019—  —  —  501,985  —  Hindalco RSU  —  1,440,000  
5/6/2019—  —  —  —  1,253,588  Hindalco SAR  2.87  1,460,000  
5/6/20191,200,000  2,400,000  4,800,000  —  —  Novelis PU  —  —  
Devinder Ahuja5/6/2019221,999  527,000  1,054,000  —  —  AIP  —  —  
5/6/2019—  —  —  104,581  —  Hindalco RSU  —  300,000  
5/6/2019—  —  —  —  171,725  Hindalco SAR  2.87  200,000  
5/6/2019250,000  500,000  1,000,000  —  —  Novelis PU  —  —  
Emilio Braghi5/6/2019134,273  318,750  637,500  —  —  AIP  —  —  
5/6/2019—  —  —  78,436  —  Hindalco RSU  —  225,000  
5/6/2019—  —  —  —  128,794  Hindalco SAR  2.87  150,000  
5/6/2019187,500  375,000  750,000  —  —  Novelis PU  —  —  
Marco Palmieri5/6/2019145,244  344,793  689,585  —  —  AIP  —  —  
5/6/2019—  —  —  79,481  —  Hindalco RSU  —  228,000  
5/6/2019—  —  —  —  130,511  Hindalco SAR  2.87  152,000  
5/6/2019190,000  380,000  760,000  —  —  Novelis PU  —  —  
Sachin Satpute5/6/201995,203  226,001  452,002  —  —  AIP  —  —  
5/6/2019—  —  —  62,749  —  Hindalco RSU  —  180,000  
5/6/2019—  —  —  —  103,035  Hindalco SAR  2.87  120,000  
5/6/2019150,000  300,000  600,000  —  —  Novelis PU  —  —  
Leslie Parrette5/6/2019172,347  409,133  818,266  —  —  AIP  —  —  
5/6/2019—  —  —  78,436  —  Hindalco RSU  —  225,000  
5/6/2019—  —  —  —  128,794  Hindalco SAR  2.87  150,000  
5/6/2019187,500  375,000  750,000  —  —  Novelis PU  —  —  

137


Outstanding Equity Awards as of March 31, 2020
Hindalco OptionsHindalco RSUs
NameLTIP YearNumber of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options # ExercisableNumber of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options # UnexercisableOption Exercise
Price ($)
Option Expiration DateNumber of Shares or Units of Stock That Have Not VestedMarket Value of Shares or Units of Stock That Have Not Vested ($)
Steven Fisher2020—  1,253,588  2.87  May 6, 2026501,985  681,534  
2019273,504  547,008  3.46  May 2, 2025202,461  285,258  
2018554,654  277,326  2.92  May 5, 2024111,018  162,475  
2017281,986  —  1.37  May 5, 2023—  —  
2016315,196  —  2.10  May 7, 2022—  —  
2015234,084  —  2.43  May 13, 2021—  —  
Devinder Ahuja2020—  171,725  2.87  May 6, 2026104,581  141,987  
201930,998  61,994  3.46  May 2, 202539,336  55,423  
201848,316  24,157  2.92  May 5, 202417,132  25,073  
201749,326  —  2.26  October 1, 2023—  —  
Emilio Braghi2020—  128,794  2.87  May 6, 202678,436  106,491  
201931,909  63,818  3.46  May 2, 202540,492  57,051  
201846,384  23,190  2.92  May 5, 202416,446  24,069  
Marco Palmieri2020—  130,511  2.87  May 6, 202679,481  107,910  
201934,644  69,288  3.46  May 2, 202543,963  61,942  
201873,440  36,718  2.92  May 5, 202426,040  38,110  
2016116,125  —  2.10  May 7, 2022—  —  
201544,751  —  2.43  May 13, 2021—  —  
Sachin Satpute2020—  103,035  2.87  May 6, 202662,749  85,193  
201925,072  50,142  3.46  May 2, 202531,816  44,827  
201846,384  23,190  2.92  May 5, 202416,446  24,069  
201736,255  —  1.37  May 5, 2023—  —  
Leslie Parrette202065,591  —  2.87  May 6, 2026—  —  
201988,795  —  3.46  May 2, 2025—  —  
201865,762  —  2.92  May 5, 2024—  —  
201770,497  —  1.37  May 5, 2023—  —  
201658,063  —  2.10  May 7, 2022—  —  
Option Exercises and Stock Vested in Fiscal Year 2020
The table below sets forth the information regarding stock options that were exercised during fiscal 2020 and stock awards that vested and were paid out during fiscal 2020.
Options AwardsStock Awards
NameNumber of Shares Acquired on Exercise, but Settled in CashValue Realized on Exercise ($)Number of Shares Acquired on Vesting, but Settled in CashValue Realized on Vesting ($)
Steven Fisher248,568  348,753  416,629  1,264,948  
Devinder Ahuja—  —  54,702  164,500  
Emilio Braghi47,269  54,513  58,966  178,659  
Marco Palmieri70,497  136,741  99,193  300,752  
Sachin Satpute—  —  58,671  178,217  
Leslie Parrette—  —  194,097  442,161  
138


Pension Benefits in Fiscal 2020
The table below sets forth information regarding the present value as of March 31, 2020 of the accumulated benefits of our named executive officers under our defined benefit pension plans (both qualified and non-qualified). Mr. Satpute, the only one of our named executive officers eligible for a defined benefit program, is enrolled in the Novelis Asia Defined Benefits plan.
NamePlan NameChange in Pension Value ($)Number of Years of Credited ServicePresent Value of Accumulated Benefit ($)Payments During Last Fiscal Year ($)
Sachin SatputeDefined Benefits39,434  3.58112,571  —  
Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation
This table summarizes contributions and earnings under our Defined Contribution Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan for fiscal year 2020. The plan is an unfunded, non-qualified defined contribution plan for U.S. tax purposes. The plan provides eligible executives with the opportunity to voluntarily defer, on a pre-tax basis, a portion of their base salary and annual incentive pay that otherwise may not be deferred under the Company’s tax-qualified savings plan due to limitations under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. The plan also provides eligible U.S. executives with Company non-elective and matching contribution credits which they are restricted from receiving under the tax-qualified savings plan due to those same limitations.
Name
Elective Contributions in
Last Fiscal Year ($)
Employer Contributions in
Last Fiscal Year ($)
Aggregate Earnings in
Last Fiscal Year ($)
Aggregate Withdrawals/
Distributions ($)
Aggregate Balance at Last
Fiscal Year End ($)
Steven Fisher—  182,552  773  —  1,662,129  
Devinder Ahuja—  76,475  651  —  190,220  
Marco Palmieri—  54,832  —  —  159,804  
Leslie Parrette—  126,793  7,571  —  677,999  


139


Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control
This section provides an estimate of the payments and benefits that would be paid to certain of our named executive officers on March 31, 2020, upon voluntary termination or involuntary termination of employment without cause. This section, however, does not reflect any payments or benefits that would be paid to our salaried employees generally, including for example accrued salary and vacation pay; regular retirement plan benefits; or normal retirement, death or disability benefits. See Employment Related Agreements above for a discussion of the change in control, severance compensation and retention agreements for our named executive officers and any restrictive covenants contained therein. As discussed above, Mr. Parrette separated from Novelis on March 18, 2020, and entered into a severance and release agreement.
NameType of PaymentVoluntary Termination by Executive ($)Termination by us without Cause ($)Termination in Connection with CIC by us without Cause or by Executive for Good Reason ($)Death or Disability ($)
Steven Fisher
Short-Term Incentive Pay(2)
1,790,096  1,790,096  1,790,096  1,790,096  
Long-Term Incentive Plan(3)
26,056  5,540,599  5,951,434  5,951,434  
Severance(4)
—  3,000,000  4,830,000  —  
Retirement plans(5)
—  209,225  418,450  —  
Lump sum cash payment for continuation of health coverage(6)
—  37,926  45,512  —  
Continued group life insurance coverage(7)
—  5,688  11,376  —  
Total1,816,152  10,583,534  13,046,868  7,741,530  
Devinder Ahuja
Short-Term Incentive Pay(2)
704,597  704,597  704,597  704,597  
Long-Term Incentive Plan(3)
—  957,214  1,041,371  1,041,371  
Severance(4)
—  1,320,000  2,294,000  —  
Retirement plans(5)
—  103,727  207,454  —  
Lump sum cash payment for continuation of health coverage(6)
—  41,414  49,696  —  
Continued group life insurance coverage(7)
—  3,355  6,710  —  
Total704,597  3,130,307  4,303,828  1,745,968  
Emilio Braghi
Short-Term Incentive Pay(2)
426,168  426,168  426,168  426,168  
Long-Term Incentive Plan(3)
—  891,934  959,000  959,000  
Severance(4)
—  530,450  1,618,269  —  
Retirement plans(5)
—  89,453  178,907  —  
Lump sum cash payment for continuation of health coverage(6)
—  43,322  43,222  —  
Continued group life insurance coverage(7)
—  —  —  —  
Total426,168  1,981,327  3,225,566  1,385,168  
Marco Palmieri
Short-Term Incentive Pay(2)
450,643  450,643  450,643  450,643  
Long-Term Incentive Plan(3)
—  1,193,819  1,263,516  1,263,516  
Severance(4)
—  1,237,500  1,750,485  —  
Retirement plans(5)
—  81,546  163,092  —  
Lump sum cash payment for continuation of health coverage(6)
—  37,926  45,512  —  
Continued group life insurance coverage(7)
—  2,952  5,903  —  
Total450,643  3,004,386  3,679,151  1,714,159  
Sachin Satpute(1)
Short-Term Incentive Pay(2)
302,162  302,162  302,162  302,162  
Long-Term Incentive Plan(3)
782,953  782,953  782,953  782,953  
Severance(4)
—  —  —  —  
Retirement plans(5)
—  —  —  —  
Lump sum cash payment for continuation of health coverage(6)
—  —  —  —  
Continued group life insurance coverage(7)
—  —  —  —  
Total1,085,115  1,085,115  1,085,115  1,085,115  
_________________________ 
(1)The terms of separation for Mr. Satpute, an international expatriate from the Aditya Birla Group (ABG), assume his return to employment with ABG at the conclusion of his assignment with Novelis.
(2)These amounts represent the executive's AIP for the fiscal year.
(3)These amounts reflect the estimated value of the vested SARs, RSUs and PUs granted pursuant to our long term incentive plans.
(4)These amounts are estimates of payments that would be paid pursuant to our Change in Control Severance Plan, the executive's severance agreement or local law and practice, as applicable.
(5)The retirement benefit represents 12 months (or 24 months in the case of a change in control severance) of additional benefit accrual or contribution credit, as applicable, under our retirement plans.
(6)This amount is intended to assist the executive in paying post-employment health coverage for 12 months (or 24 months in the case of a change in control severance).
(7)This amount represents the estimated value of 12 months (or 24 months in the case of a change in control severance) of additional coverage under our group and executive life insurance plans.
140


Director Compensation for Fiscal 2020
The Chairman of our board of directors is entitled to receive cash compensation equal to $250,000 per year, and the Chair of our Audit Committee is entitled to receive $175,000 per year. Each of our other directors is entitled to receive compensation equal to $150,000 per year, plus an additional $5,000 if he is a member of our Audit Committee. Directors’ fees are ordinarily paid in quarterly installments. Since July 2008, our Chairman, Mr. Birla, has declined to receive the director compensation to which he is entitled.
All directors receive reimbursement for out of pocket expenses associated with attending board and Committee meetings. The table below sets forth the total compensation received by our directors for fiscal 2020.
Name
Fees Earned or Paid in Cash ($)
Kumar Mangalam Birla—  
Askaran K. Agarwala150,000  
D. Bhattacharya155,000  
Clarence J. Chandran155,000  
Gary Comerford37,500  
Thomas M. Connelly37,500  
Satish Pai150,000  
Vikas Sehgal37,500  
Donald A. Stewart175,000  
Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation
In fiscal 2020, Clarence J. Chandran was the Chairman of the Committee. The other Committee members during all or part of the year were Mr. D. Bhattacharya, Mr. Askaran Agarwala, and Mr. Satish Pai. During fiscal 2020, none of our executive officers served as:
a member of the Committee (or other board committee performing equivalent functions or, in the absence of any such committee, the entire board of directors) of another entity, one of whose executive officers served on our Committee;
a director of another entity, one of whose executive officers served on our Committee; or
a member of the Committee (or other board committee performing equivalent functions or, in the absence of any such committee, the entire board of directors) of another entity, one of whose executive officers served as one of our directors.
141




Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Shareholder Matters.
On May 15, 2007, the Company was acquired by Hindalco through its indirect wholly-owned subsidiary AV Metals Inc. pursuant to a plan of arrangement entered into on February 10, 2007. Since the acquisition was completed on May 15, 2007, all of our common shares have been indirectly held by Hindalco.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence.
We maintain various policies and procedures that govern related party transactions. Pursuant to our Code of Conduct and our Code of Ethics for Senior Financial Officers, senior managers and directors of the company (a) must avoid any action that creates or appears to create, a conflict of interest between their own interest and the interest of the company, (b) cannot usurp corporate opportunities, and (c) must deal fairly with third parties. This policy is available on our website at www.novelis.com. In addition, we have enacted procedures to monitor related party transactions by (x) identifying possible related parties through questions in our director and officer questionnaires, (y) determining whether we receive payments from or make payments to any of the identified related parties, and (z) if we determine payments are made or received, researching the nature of the interactions between the company and the related parties and ensuring that the related person does not have an interest in the transaction with the company. The Audit Committee is responsible for reviewing material related party transactions that involve the company, one of our directors or executive officers or any of their immediate family members.
See Note 9 – Investment in and Advances to Non-Consolidated Affiliates and Related Party Transactions for more details related to various transactions with our parent company, Hindalco, and its affiliates. These transactions are not material to Novelis individually or in the aggregate. Because of the relationship four of our directors have with Hindalco, we consider these transactions to be related party transactions.



142


Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services.
The following table shows fees and expenses billed to the Company by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP for services rendered for the years ended March 31, 2020 and 2019: 
 March 31,
in millions20202019
Audit fees(1)
$6.8  $6.1  
Audit-Related Fees(2)
—  0.1  
Tax Fees(3)
0.2  0.5  
All Other Fees(4)
0.1  0.1  
Total$7.1  $6.8  
_________________________ 
(1)Represent fees for professional services rendered and expenses incurred for the audit of the Company’s annual financial statements, review of financial statements included in the Company’s Form 10-Qs and services that are normally provided by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements for those fiscal periods.
(2)Represent fees for assurance related services that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of our consolidated financial statements and are not reported under "Audit Fees." In the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020, there were no services provided that fall in this category. In the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019, this fee included consultations on accounting and disclosure matters. Note that the nature of such advice did not result in the principal auditor firm acting in a management function or providing services that were considered book-keeping in nature.
(3)In the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020, this includes procedures performed related to transfer pricing studies and tax consulting services. In the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019, this fee included procedures performed related to transfer pricing studies, customs valuations audits, and tax consulting services.
(4)In the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020 and March 31, 2019, this fee included attest services performed over the Company's application for energy credits, as well as for services not included in the Audit, Audit Related, and Tax categories.
Pre-Approval of Audit and Permissible Non-Audit Services
The charter of the Audit Committee provides that the Committee is responsible for the pre-approval of all audit and permissible non-audit services to be performed by the independent auditors. The Audit Committee has adopted a policy for the pre-approval of services provided by the independent auditors. The policy gives detailed guidance to management as to the specific services that are eligible for general pre-approval and provides specific cost limits for certain services on an annual basis. Pursuant to the policy and the Audit Committee charter, the Audit Committee has granted to its chairman the authority to address any requests for pre-approval of individual services.

143


PART IV
 
Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules.
1. Financial Statement Schedules
None.
2. Exhibits
Exhibit
No.
Description
2.1  
2.2  
3.1  
3.2  
3.3  
4.1  
4.3  
4.4  
10.1  
10.2  
10.3  
10.4*  
10.5*  
10.6*
10.7*
10.8*
144


10.9*
10.10*
10.11*
10.12*
10.13*
10.14*
10.15*
10.16*
10.17*  
10.18*
10.19*
10.20*
10.21*
10.22*
10.23*  
10.24*
10.25*
21.1  
31.1  
31.2  
32.1  
32.2  
101.INS  XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
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
*Indicates a management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.

145


Item 16. Form 10-K Summary.
None.

146


SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
NOVELIS INC.
By:/s/ Steven Fisher
Name:Steven Fisher
Title:President and Chief Executive Officer
Date:May 7, 2020
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
/s/    Steven Fisher        (Principal Executive Officer)
Date: May 7, 2020
Steven Fisher
/s/    Devinder Ahuja     (Principal Financial Officer)
Date: May 7, 2020
Devinder Ahuja
/s/    Stephanie Rauls(Principal Accounting Officer)
Date: May 7, 2020
Stephanie Rauls
/s/    Kumar Mangalam Birla(Chairman of the Board of Directors)
Date: May 7, 2020
Kumar Mangalam Birla
/s/    Debnarayan Bhattacharya        (Director)
Date: May 7, 2020
Debnarayan Bhattacharya
/s/    Clarence J. Chandran        (Director)
Date: May 7, 2020
Clarence J. Chandran
/s/    Gary Comerford(Director)
Date: May 7, 2020
Gary Comerford
/s/    Dr. Thomas M. Connelly, Jr.(Director)
Date: May 7, 2020
Dr. Thomas M. Connelly, Jr.
/s/    Satish Pai(Director)
Date: May 7, 2020
Satish Pai
/s/    Vikas Sehgal     (Director)
Date: May 7, 2020
Vikas Sehgal
/s/    Donald A. Stewart(Director)
Date: May 7, 2020
Donald A. Stewart

147