Declaration of Compliance - Archive
- Declaration of Compliance 2021
Declaration of Compliance
Declaration of compliance pursuant to Section 161 of the German Stock Corporation Law (AktG) regarding the recommendations of the “German Corporate Governance Code”
The Management Board and Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec SE make the following declaration in accordance with Section 161 (1) of the German Stock Corporation Law (AktG):
Since the issuance of the last declaration of compliance in December 2020 and an update to it published in June 2021, SUSS MicroTec SE has complied with all the recommendations of the German Corporate Governance Code in the version of December 16, 2019 (published in the official section of the Federal Gazette on March 20, 2020), with the exception of the recommendations in Section F.2 (Transparency and external reporting) and in Section G.I. (Remuneration of the Management Board).
In accordance with Section 161 (1) of the German Stock Corporation Law (AktG), the Management Board and the Supervisory Board declare further that SUSS MicroTec SE will comply with all recommendations of the German Corporate Governance Code in the version of December 16, 2019 (published in the official section of the Federal Gazette on March 20, 2020) with the exception of the recommendation in Section G.I. (Remuneration of the Management Board).Justification:
Transparency and external reporting (Section F.2)
The consolidated financial statements and the Group management report shall be publicly accessible within 90 days of the end of the financial year; interim reports shall be publicly accessible within 45 days of the end of the reporting period.
SUSS MicroTec SE published the consolidated financial statements for the 2020 fiscal year on April 9, 2021. The spread of the coronavirus and the associated restrictions made it necessary to postpone publication to a point in time after the 90-day deadline.
The Management Board and the Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec SE plan to comply once again with the aforementioned recommendation regarding the consolidated financial statements for the 2021 fiscal year.Remuneration of the Management Board (Section G.I.)
The new remuneration system for members of the Management Board of SÜSS MicroTec SE, which was approved by the Shareholders’ Meeting on June 16, 2021, complies fully with the recommendations of the GCGC with the exception of one deviation from the recommendation under Section G. 1 (1) of the GCGC, which is declared in advance.
According to the recommendation under Section G. 1 (1), the remuneration system should dictate how the target total remuneration is determined for each Management Board member and the amount that the total remuneration must not exceed (maximum remuneration). The new remuneration system for the members of the Management Board of SÜSS MicroTec SE provides, in addition to the (overall) determination of the maximum remuneration for the (entire) Management Board, for a limitation at the level of the individual Management Board member to 2.7 times the target total remuneration. The Management Board and Supervisory Board are of the opinion that these stipulations take sufficient account of the recommendation under Section G.1 (1) of the GCGC and that the new remuneration system for the Management Board members therefore also complies with the Code in this respect, even if the limit is not specified in the form of a concrete (and fixed) monetary amount in each case.
However, the interpretation of the aforementioned recommendation is disputed. A different view is that the maximum remuneration should be determined individually for each Management Board member. This is not included in the new remuneration system for Management Board members. The Management Board and Supervisory Board, therefore, declare a deviation in this respect as a precaution.
Garching Germany, December 2021
For the Management Board
Dr. Goetz M. Bendele
Chief Executive OfficerFor the Supervisory Board
Dr. David Dean
Chairman of the Supervisory Board - Declaration of Compliance 2020
Declaration of Compliance
Declaration of compliance pursuant to Section 161 of the German Stock Corporation Law (AktG) regarding the recommendations of the “German Corporate Governance Code”
The Management Board and Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec SE make the following declaration in accordance with Section 161 (1) of the German Stock Corporation Law (AktG):
Since the issuance of the last declaration of compliance in December 2019, SUSS MicroTec SE has complied with all the recommendations of the German Corporate Governance Code in the version of December 19, 2019 (published in the official section of the Federal Gazette on March 20, 2020), with the following exceptions, and will continue to comply with the recommendations with the following exceptions:
enumerated in that declaration.Since the issuance of the last declaration of compliance in December 2019, SUSS MicroTec SE has complied with all the recommendations of the German Corporate Governance Code in the version of December 19, 2019 (published in the official section of the Federal Gazette on March 20, 2020), with the following exceptions, and will continue to comply with the recommendations with the following exceptions:
Transparency and external reporting (section F.2)
The consolidated financial statements and the Group management report shall be publicly accessible within 90 days of the end of the financial year; interim reports shall be publicly accessible within 45 days of the end of the reporting period.
SUSS MicroTec SE published the consolidated financial statements for the 2019 fiscal year on April 2, 2020, and expects to publish the consolidated financial statements for the 2020 fiscal year on April 9, 2021. The Company is declaring a deviation from recommendation F2, given that both publication dates are outside the time frame recommended by the GCGC. However, SUSS MicroTec SE complies with the provisions of the Deutsche Börse’s Prime Standards as well as the provisions of the German Commercial Code (Section 325 HGB) and thus considers the publication of the consolidated financial statements to be timely. The Company endeavors to also comply with the recommendations of the GCGC for the publication of consolidated financial statements beginning in the 2022 fiscal year.
Remuneration of the Management Board (Section G.I.)
Section G.I. of the German Corporate Governance Code 2020 contains new recommendations regarding the remuneration of the Management Board compared to the previous year. The current remuneration system of SUSS MicroTec SE, which was approved by the Shareholders’ Meeting on June 15, 2016, does not entirely comply with the new regulations. Therefore, the Company is declaring a deviation from point G.I. as a precaution.
In particular, the current remuneration system does not comply with the following recommendations to their full extent: G.3 (peer-group comparison of Management Board salaries), G.4 (comparison of Management Board salaries with those of the highest management level), G.8 (exclusion of a subsequent change to objectives), G.10 (share-based Management Board remuneration and lock-up period of four years), G.11 (clawback option or retention of variable remuneration by the Supervisory Board), G.14 (change-of-control clause), G.16 (deductions to remuneration for external Supervisory Board mandates).The Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec SE has commissioned an external remuneration expert with the development of a new remuneration system for Management Board members. It will serve as the basis for a new remuneration system for Management Board members that will be presented for approval at the Shareholders’ Meeting in 2021 and will include in particular the modified recommendations of the German Corporate Governance Code for future Management Board contracts. A provision will safeguard existing Management Board contracts.
Garching Germany, December 2020
For the Management Board
Dr. Franz Richter
Chief Executive Officer
Oliver Albrecht
Chief Financial OfficerFor the Supervisory Board
Dr. David Dean
Chairman of the Supervisory BoardSupplement to the current Declaration of Compliance
Update to the declaration of compliance pursuant to Section 161 of the German Stock Corporation Law (AktG) regarding the recommendations of the “German Corporate Governance Code”
In December 2020, the Management Board and Supervisory Board of SÜSS MicroTec SE submitted the annual declaration of compliance pursuant to Section 161 of the German Stock Corporation Law (AktG) on the recommendations of the German Corporate Governance Code as amended on December 19, 2019 (published in the official section of the Federal Gazette on March 20, 2020). In this declaration, the Management Board and the Supervisory Board explained and justified individual deviations from Section G.I. of the GCGC with regard to the remuneration system of the Management Board in place at the time the declaration was submitted, among other things.
As already announced in the declaration of compliance, the Supervisory Board of SÜSS MicroTec SE decided to commission an external remuneration expert with the development of a new remuneration system for Management Board members and did so with the resolution of February 4, 2021. This new remuneration system for members of the Management Board was presented at the ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting on June 16, 2021, and approved with the necessary majority. The Supervisory Board was guided by the provisions of the GCGC when determining the remuneration system. Except as outlined in the following declaration, the remuneration system fully complies with its recommendations.
This is why an update of the declaration of compliance is required. The Management Board and Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec SE, therefore, declare in accordance with Section 161 (1) of the German Stock Corporation Law (AktG):
The new remuneration system for members of the Management Board of SÜSS MicroTec SE, which was approved by the Shareholders’ Meeting on June 16, 2021, complies fully with the recommendations of the GCGC with the exception of one deviation from the recommendation under Section G. 1 (1) of the GCGC, which is declared in advance.
According to the recommendation under Section G. 1 (1), the remuneration system should dictate how the target total remuneration is determined for each Management Board member and the amount that the total remuneration must not exceed (maximum remuneration). The new remuneration system for the members of the Management Board of SÜSS MicroTec SE provides, in addition to the (overall) determination of the maximum remuneration for the (entire) Management Board, for a limitation at the level of the individual Management Board member to 2.7 times the target total remuneration. The Management Board and Supervisory Board are of the opinion that these stipulations take sufficient account of the recommendation under Section G.1 (1) of the GCGC and that the new remuneration system for the Management Board members therefore also complies with the Code in this respect, even if the limit is not specified in the form of a concrete (and fixed) monetary amount in each case.
However, the interpretation of the aforementioned recommendation is disputed. A different take is that the maximum remuneration should be determined individually for each Management Board member. This is not included in the new remuneration system for Management Board members. The Management Board and Supervisory Board, therefore, declare a deviation in this respect as a precaution.
The declaration of compliance of December 2020 continues to apply in all other respects.
For the Management Board
Dr. Götz M. Bendele
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Oliver Albrecht
Chief Financial Officer(CFO)
Dr. Thomas Rohe
Chief Operations Officer (COO)For the Supervisory Board
Dr. David Dean
Chairman of the Supervisory Board - Declaration of Compliance 2019 - January
Declaration of Compliance
Declaration of Compliance in Accordance with Section 161 of the German Stock Corporation Law (AktG) on the Recommendations of the Government Commission on the German Corporate Governance Code
The Management Board and Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec SE make the following declaration in accordance with Section 161 (1) of the German Stock Corporation Law (AktG):
With the exception of the following declared deviations, SUSS MicroTec SE has complied and will continue to comply with the recommendations of the Government Commission on the German Corporate Governance Code in the version as of February 7, 2017. Furthermore, since the issuance of the most recent annual declaration of compliance in January 2018, SUSS MicroTec SE has complied with the recommendations of the Government Commission of the German Corporate Governance Code in the version as of February 7, 2017 with the exceptions
enumerated in that declaration.a) Deductible for D&O Insurance
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in Section 3.8.3 that upon concluding a directors’ and officers’ D&O liability insurance policy, a deductible for the company Supervisory Board that complies with the legal requirements for board members be agreed. SUSS MicroTec SE has had D&O insurance without any body-specific deductible for the Supervisory Board for several years. In SUSS MicroTec’s opinion, responsible actions of the Supervisory Board are not additionally promoted through the agreement of a corresponding deductible.
b) Vertical Remuneration Comparison
In Section 4.2.2 (2) sentence 3 the German Corporate Governance code recommends taking into account in setting Management Board remuneration the ratio of Management Board remuneration to upper management remuneration as well as to that of the overall staff, including the trend over time. In the process, the Supervisory Board decides how upper management and the relevant staff are defined.
The Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec SE is of the opinion that determining senior management and the relevant staff, taking the trend over time into account, can lead in practice to substantial legal uncertainties. Therefore, SUSS MicroTec is declaring a deviation from the Code as a precaution to this extent. When concluding the currently valid Management Board contracts, the Supervisory Board did not distinguish between the peer groups within the meaning of section 4.2.2 (2) sentence 3 of the Code version as part of the review of adequacy and did not carry out any surveys on the temporal development of the salary structure. The Supervisory Board also does not consider such a purely formal approach necessary in order to ensure the appropriateness of the compensation for the board.
c) Pension commitments
Under Section 4.2.3 (3) the German Corporate Governance code recommends that the Supervisory Board take into account in pension commitments the respective targeted remuneration level – also according to the length of service in the Management Board – and the resultant annual and long-term expense for the Company.
The Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec deviates from this recommendation because no set “remuneration level” is targeted for Management Board members in retirement. Instead, the goal is remuneration in line with the market and the Company for active service. As a rule, no defined benefit commitments in which the Company provides the promised benefit are granted to members of the Management Board. To the extent that the Company makes a contribution to a pension plan and pays into a direct insurance policy (whole life insurance or retirement insurance), this is not linked to a commitment to a certain remuneration level.
d) Creation of Committees
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in Section 5.3 the creation of professionally qualified committees, depending on the specific circumstances of the company and the number of its Supervisory Board members. As the Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec only consists of four members, the creation of committees, which usually must be comprised of at least three members, is not meaningful and on the whole not necessary as there is plenty of scope for intense and detailed discussions to take place within the full council of the Board.
e) Regular Limit of Length of Membership for the Members of the Supervisory Board
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in section 5.4.1 (2) sentence 2 that the Supervisory Board shall specify a duration limit for the affiliation to the Supervisory Board. The Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec SE deviates from these recommendations, since the limitation of affiliation could jeopardize the leeway and the competence of the Supervisory Board. By SUSS MicroTec's opinion the independent and responsible actions of the Supervisory Board are not improved by limiting the time spent on the supervisory board. On the contrary, through the complex product and corporate structure a certain length of stay in the supervisory board is positive because of the valuable, enterprise-specific experience and knowledge collected over time, which can be used for the benefit of the company.
Garching, Germany, January 2019
For the Management Board
Dr. Franz Richter
Chief Executive OfficerRobert Leurs
Chief Financial OfficerFor the Supervisory Board
Dr. Stefan Reineck
Chairman of the Supervisory Board - Declaration of Compliance 2019 - December
Declaration of Compliance with the German Corporate Governance Code
On December 10, 2019, the Management Board and Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec SE made the following declaration of compliance in accordance with Section 161 (1) of the German Stock Corporation Law (AktG):
SUSS MicroTec SE will comply with the recommendations of the German Corporate Governance Code in the version from February 7, 2017, with the following enumerated exceptions and has complied with the recommendations of the German Corporate Governance Code in the version from February 7, 2017, since the issuance of the most recent annual declaration of compliance in January 2019 with the following enumerated exceptions:
Deductible for D&O Insurance
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in Section 3.8 (3) that upon concluding a directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policy, a deductible be agreed for the Company’s Supervisory Board that complies with the legal requirements for board members. SUSS MicroTec SE has had D&O insurance without any body-specific deductible for the Supervisory Board for several years. In SUSS MicroTec’s opinion, responsible actions of the Supervisory Board are not additionally promoted through the agreement of a corresponding deductible.
Vertical Remuneration Comparison
In Section 4.2.2 (2)(3), the German Corporate Governance Code recommends taking into account the ratio of Management Board remuneration to upper management remuneration as well as to that of the overall staff, including the trend over time, when setting Management Board remuneration. In the process, the Supervisory Board decides how upper management and the relevant staff are defined. The Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec SE is of the opinion that comparing the remuneration of senior management and the relevant staff, taking the trend over time into account, can lead in practice to substantial legal uncertainties. Therefore, SUSS MicroTec SE is declaring a deviation from the Code as a precaution to this extent. In concluding the currently valid Management Board contracts, the Supervisory Board did not distinguish within the framework of the audit of appropriateness between the peer groups within the meaning of Section 4.2.2 (2) (3) of the Code version and also did not collect any data regarding the development over time of the wage and salary structure. It also does not consider such a purely formal procedure to be necessary in order to ensure the appropriateness of Management Board remuneration.
Pension Commitments
Under Section 4.2.3 (3), the German Corporate Governance Code recommends that the Supervisory Board take the respective targeted remuneration level into account in pension commitments – also according to the length of service in the Management Board – and the resultant annual and long-term expense for the Company. The Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec deviates from this recommendation because no set “remuneration level” is targeted for Management Board members in retirement. Instead, the goal is remuneration in line with the market and the Company for active service. As a rule, no defined benefit commitments in which the Company provides the promised benefit are granted to members of the Management Board. To the extent that the Company makes a contribution to a pension plan and pays into a direct insurance policy (whole life insurance or retirement insurance), this is not linked to a commitment to a certain remuneration level.
Creation of Committees
The German Corporate Governance Code in Section 5.3 recommends the creation of professionally qualified committees, depending on the specific circumstances of the company and the number of its Supervisory Board members. As the Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec consists of only five members, the creation of committees, which are usually comprised of at least three members, is not necessary.
Setting a Term Limit for Membership in the Supervisory Board
According to Point 5.4.1 (2)(2) of the German Corporate Governance Code, the Supervisory Board should set a term limit for membership in the Supervisory Board. The Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec SE deviates from this recommendation since setting a membership term limit could jeopardize the Supervisory Board’s latitude and decisiveness. In SUSS MicroTec’s opinion, restricting how long an individual may remain in the Supervisory Board does not promote independent and responsible action by the Supervisory Board. On the contrary, given the complex product and corporate structure, a certain length of service in the Supervisory Board should be viewed positively, since over time one can gain valuable, Company-specific experience and knowledge that can benefit the Company.
Garching, December 2019
For the Management Board
Dr. Franz Richter Oliver Albrecht
CEO CFOFor the Supervisory Board
Dr. Stefan Reineck
Chairman of the Supervisory Board - Declaration of Compliance 2018
Declaration of Compliance
Declaration of Compliance in Accordance with Section 161 of the German Stock Corporation Law (AktG) on the Recommendations of the Government Commission on the German Corporate Governance Code
The Management Board and Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec SE make the following declaration in accordance with Section 161 (1) of the German Stock Corporation Law (AktG):
With the exception of the following declared deviations, SUSS MicroTec SE has complied and will continue to comply with the recommendations of the Government Commission on the German Corporate Governance Code in the version as of February 7, 2017. Furthermore, since the issuance of the most recent annual declaration of compliance in January 2017, SUSS MicroTec SE has complied with the recommendations of the Government Commission of the German Corporate Governance Code in the version as of February 7, 2017 with the exceptions
enumerated in that declaration.a) Deductible for D&O Insurance
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in Section 3.8.3 that upon concluding a directors’ and officers’ D&O liability insurance policy, a deductible for the company Supervisory Board that complies with the legal requirements for board members be agreed. SUSS MicroTec SE has had D&O insurance without any body-specific deductible for the Supervisory Board for several years. In SUSS MicroTec’s opinion, responsible actions of the Supervisory Board are not additionally promoted through the agreement of a corresponding deductible.
b) Vertical Remuneration Comparison
In Section 4.2.2 (2) sentence 3 the German Corporate Governance code recommends taking into account in setting Management Board remuneration the ratio of Management Board remuneration to upper management remuneration as well as to that of the overall staff, including the trend over time. In the process, the Supervisory Board decides how upper management and the relevant staff are defined.
The Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec SE is of the opinion that determining senior management and the relevant staff, taking the trend over time into account, can lead in practice to substantial legal uncertainties. Therefore, SUSS MicroTec is declaring a deviation from the Code as a precaution to this extent. When concluding the currently valid Management Board contracts, the Supervisory Board did not distinguish between the peer groups within the meaning of section 4.2.2 (2) sentence 3 of the Code version as part of the review of adequacy and did not carry out any surveys on the temporal development of the salary structure. The Supervisory Board also does not consider such a purely formal approach necessary in order to ensure the appropriateness of the compensation for the board.
c) Pension commitments
Under Section 4.2.3 (3) the German Corporate Governance code recommends that the Supervisory Board take into account in pension commitments the respective targeted remuneration level – also according to the length of service in the Management Board – and the resultant annual and long-term expense for the Company.
The Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec deviates from this recommendation because no set “remuneration level” is targeted for Management Board members in retirement. Instead, the goal is remuneration in line with the market and the Company for active service. As a rule, no defined benefit commitments in which the Company provides the promised benefit are granted to members of the Management Board. To the extent that the Company makes a contribution to a pension plan and pays into a direct insurance policy (whole life insurance or retirement insurance), this is not linked to a commitment to a certain remuneration level.
d) Creation of Committees
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in Section 5.3 the creation of professionally qualified committees, depending on the specific circumstances of the company and the number of its Supervisory Board members. As the Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec only consists of four members, the creation of committees, which usually must be comprised of at least three members, is not meaningful and on the whole not necessary as there is plenty of scope for intense and detailed discussions to take place within the full council of the Board.
e) Regular Limit of Length of Membership for the Members of the Supervisory Board
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in section 5.4.1 (2) sentence 2 that the Supervisory Board shall specify a duration limit for the affiliation to the Supervisory Board. The Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec SE deviates from these recommendations, since the limitation of affiliation could jeopardize the leeway and the competence of the Supervisory Board. By SUSS MicroTec's opinion the independent and responsible actions of the Supervisory Board are not improved by limiting the time spent on the supervisory board. On the contrary, through the complex product and corporate structure a certain length of stay in the supervisory board is positive because of the valuable, enterprise-specific experience and knowledge collected over time, which can be used for the benefit of the company.
Garching, Germany, January 2018
For the Management Board
Dr. Franz Richter Robert Leurs Walter Braun
Chief Executive Officer Chief Financial Officer Chief Operating OfficerFor the Supervisory Board
Dr. Stefan Reineck
Chairman of the Supervisory Board - Declaration of Compliance 2017
Declaration of Compliance
Declaration of Compliance in Accordance with Section 161 of the German Stock Corporation Law (AktG) on the Recommendations of the Government Commission on the German Corporate Governance Code
The Management Board and Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec SE make the following declaration in accordance with Section 161 (1) of the German Stock Corporation Law (AktG):
With the exception of the following declared deviations, SUSS MicroTec SE has complied and will continue to comply with the recommendations of the Government Commission on the German Corporate Governance Code in the version as of February 7, 2017. Furthermore, since the issuance of the most recent annual declaration of compliance in January 2017, SUSS MicroTec SE has complied with the recommendations of the Government Commission of the German Corporate Governance Code in the version as of February 7, 2017 with the exceptions
enumerated in that declaration.a) Deductible for D&O Insurance
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in Section 3.8.3 that upon concluding a directors’ and officers’ D&O liability insurance policy, a deductible for the company Supervisory Board that complies with the legal requirements for board members be agreed. SUSS MicroTec SE has had D&O insurance without any body-specific deductible for the Supervisory Board for several years. In SUSS MicroTec’s opinion, responsible actions of the Supervisory Board are not additionally promoted through the agreement of a corresponding deductible.
b) Vertical Remuneration Comparison
In Section 4.2.2 (2) sentence 3 the German Corporate Governance code recommends taking into account in setting Management Board remuneration the ratio of Management Board remuneration to upper management remuneration as well as to that of the overall staff, including the trend over time. In the process, the Supervisory Board decides how upper management and the relevant staff are defined.
The Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec SE is of the opinion that determining senior management and the relevant staff, taking the trend over time into account, can lead in practice to substantial legal uncertainties. Therefore, SUSS MicroTec is declaring a deviation from the Code as a precaution to this extent. When concluding the currently valid Management Board contracts, the Supervisory Board did not distinguish between the peer groups within the meaning of section 4.2.2 (2) sentence 3 of the Code version as part of the review of adequacy and did not carry out any surveys on the temporal development of the salary structure. The Supervisory Board also does not consider such a purely formal approach necessary in order to ensure the appropriateness of the compensation for the board.
c) Pension commitments
Under Section 4.2.3 (3) the German Corporate Governance code recommends that the Supervisory Board take into account in pension commitments the respective targeted remuneration level – also according to the length of service in the Management Board – and the resultant annual and long-term expense for the Company.
The Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec deviates from this recommendation because no set “remuneration level” is targeted for Management Board members in retirement. Instead, the goal is remuneration in line with the market and the Company for active service. As a rule, no defined benefit commitments in which the Company provides the promised benefit are granted to members of the Management Board. To the extent that the Company makes a contribution to a pension plan and pays into a direct insurance policy (whole life insurance or retirement insurance), this is not linked to a commitment to a certain remuneration level.
d) Creation of Committees
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in Section 5.3 the creation of professionally qualified committees, depending on the specific circumstances of the company and the number of its Supervisory Board members. As the Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec only consists of four members, the creation of committees, which usually must be comprised of at least three members, is not meaningful and on the whole not necessary as there is plenty of scope for intense and detailed discussions to take place within the full council of the Board.
e) Regular Limit of Length of Membership for the Members of the Supervisory Board
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in section 5.4.1 (2) sentence 2 that the Supervisory Board shall specify a duration limit for the affiliation to the Supervisory Board. The Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec SE deviates from these recommendations, since the limitation of affiliation could jeopardize the leeway and the competence of the Supervisory Board. By SUSS MicroTec's opinion the independent and responsible actions of the Supervisory Board are not improved by limiting the time spent on the supervisory board. On the contrary, through the complex product and corporate structure a certain length of stay in the supervisory board is positive because of the valuable, enterprise-specific experience and knowledge collected over time, which can be used for the benefit of the company.
Garching, Germany, January 2018
For the Management Board
Dr. Franz Richter
Chief Executive OfficerRobert Leurs
Chief Financial OfficerWalter Braun
Chief Operating OfficerFor the Supervisory Board
Dr. Stefan Reineck
Chairman of the Supervisory Board - Declaration of Compliance 2016
Declaration of Compliance
The Management Board and Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec SE make the following declaration in accordance with Section 161 (1) of the German Stock Corporation Law (AktG):
Since the issuance of the most recent annual declaration of compliance in January 2016, SUSS MicroTec SE has complied with the recommendations of the Government Commission of the German Corporate Governance Code in the version as of May 5, 2015, with the exceptions
enumerated in that declaration.With the exception of the following declared deviations, SUSS MicroTec SE has complied and will continue to comply with the recommendations of the Government Commission on the German Corporate Governance Code in the version as of May 5, 2015.
a) Deductible for D&O Insurance
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in Section 3.8.3 that upon concluding a directors’ and officers’ D&O liability insurance policy, a deductible for the company Supervisory Board that complies with the legal requirements for board members be agreed. SUSS MicroTec SE has had D&O insurance without any body-specific deductible for the Supervisory Board for several years. In SUSS MicroTec’s opinion, responsible actions of the Supervisory Board are not additionally promoted through the agreement of a corresponding deductible.
b) Vertical Remuneration Comparison
In Section 4.2.2 (2) sentence 3 the German Corporate Governance code recommends taking into account in setting Management Board remuneration the ratio of Management Board remuneration to upper management remuneration as well as to that of the overall staff, including the trend over time. In the process, the Supervisory Board decides how upper management and the relevant staff are defined.
The Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec SE is of the opinion that determining senior management and the relevant staff, taking the trend over time into account, can lead in practice to substantial legal uncertainties. Therefore, SUSS MicroTec is declaring a deviation from the Code as a precaution to this extent.
c) Pension commitments
Under Section 4.2.3 (3) the German Corporate Governance code recommends that the Supervisory Board take into account in pension commitments the respective targeted remuneration level – also according to the length of service in the Management Board – and the resultant annual and long-term expense for the Company.
The Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec deviates from this recommendation because no set “remuneration level” is targeted for Management Board members in retirement. Instead, the goal is remuneration in line with the market and the Company for active service. As a rule, no defined benefit commitments in which the Company provides the promised benefit are granted to members of the Management Board. To the extent that the Company makes a contribution to a pension plan and pays into a direct insurance policy (whole life insurance or retirement insurance), this is not linked to a commitment to a certain remuneration level.
d) Creation of Committees
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in Section 5.3 the creation of professionally qualified committees, depending on the specific circumstances of the company and the number of its Supervisory Board members. As the Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec only consists of three members, the creation of committees, which usually must be comprised of at least three members, is not possible and on the whole not necessary as there is plenty of scope for intense and detailed discussions to take place within the full council of the Board.
e) Regular Limit of Length of Membership for the Members of the Supervisory Board
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in section 5.4.1 (2) that the Supervisory Board shall specify a duration limit for the affiliation to the Supervisory Board. The Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec SE deviates from these recommendations, since the limitation of affiliation could jeopardize the leeway and the competence of the Supervisory Board. By SUSS MicroTec's opinion the independent and responsible actions of the Supervisory Board are not improved by limiting the time spent on the supervisory board. On the contrary, through the complex product and corporate structure a certain length of stay in the supervisory board is positive because of the valuable, enterprise-specific experience and knowledge collected over time, which can be used for the benefit of the company.
Garching, Germany, January 2017
For the Management Board
Dr. Franz Richter
Chief Executive OfficerMichael Knopp
Chief Financial OfficerWalter Braun
Chief Operating OfficerFor the Supervisory Board
Dr. Stefan Reineck
Chairman of the Supervisory Board - Declaration of Compliance 2015
The Management Board and Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec AG make the following declaration in accordance with Section 161 (1) of the German Stock Corporation Law (AktG):
With the exception of the following declared deviations, SUSS MicroTec AG has complied and will continue to comply with the recommendations of the Government Commission on the German Corporate Governance Code in the version as of June 24, 2014. Furthermore, since the issuance of the most recent annual declaration of compliance on January 10, 2014, SUSS MicroTec AG has complied with the recommendations of the Government Commission of the German Corporate Governance Code in the version as of May 13, 2013 with the exceptions enumerated in that declaration.
Deductible for D&O Insurance
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in Section 3.8 that upon concluding a directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policy, a deductible for the company Supervisory Board that complies with the legal requirements for board members be agreed. SUSS MicroTec AG has had D&O insurance without any body-specific deductible for the Supervisory Board for several years. In SUSS MicroTec’s opinion, responsible actions of the Supervisory Board are not additionally promoted through the agreement of a corresponding deductible.
Vertical Remuneration Comparison
In Section 4.2.2 the German Corporate Governance code recommends taking into account in setting Management Board remuneration the ratio of Management Board remuneration to upper management remuneration as well as to that of the overall staff, including the trend over time. In the process, the Supervisory Board decides how upper management and the relevant staff are defined.
The Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec AG is of the opinion that determining senior management and the relevant staff, taking the trend over time into account, can lead in practice to substantial legal uncertainties. Therefore, SUSS MicroTec is declaring a deviation from the Code as a precaution to this extent.Pension commitments
Under Section 4.2.3 the German Corporate Governance code recommends that the Supervisory Board take into account in pension commitments the respective targeted remuneration level – also according to the length of service in the Management Board – and the resultant annual and long-term expense for the Company.
The Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec will deviate from this recommendation because no set “remuneration level” is targeted for Management Board members in retirement. Instead, the goal is remuneration in line with the market and the Company for active service. As a rule, no defined benefit commitments in which the Company provides the promised benefit are granted to members of the Management Board. To the extent that the Company makes a contribution to a pension plan and pays into a direct insurance policy (whole life insurance or retirement insurance), this is not linked to a commitment to a certain remuneration level.Creation of Committees
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in Section 5.3 the creation of professionally qualified committees, depending on the specific circumstances of the company and the number of its Supervisory Board members. As the Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec only consists of three members, the creation of committees, which usually must be comprised of at least three members, is not possible and on the whole not necessary as there is plenty of scope for intense and detailed discussions to take place within the full council of the Board.
Targets for the Composition of the Supervisory Board
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in Section 5.4.1 (2) and (3) the enumeration of specific targets for the composition of the Supervisory Board. In enumerating specific targets, account should be taken of the international activities of the company, potential conflicts of interest, an established age limit for Supervisory Board members, and diversity subject to the company’s particular situation. In particular, the specific targets should provide for appropriate representation of women. Since the new version of the GCGC as of May 15, 2012, a specific indication of the targeted number of independent Supervisory Board members is recommended. Proposals by the Supervisory Board to the Shareholders’ Meeting should take these targets into account. SUSS MicroTec is refraining from setting specific targets and quotas in the above-mentioned spirit. In the view of SUSS MicroTec, the qualifications of Supervisory Board candidates are the primary criteria for assuming a Supervisory Board position and therefore for the composition of the Supervisory Board. In proposals for the composition of the Supervisory Board, SUSS MicroTec supports and considers the criteria specified in Section 5.4.1 (2) and (3) GCGC, but it does not regard specific targets or quotas as expedient.
Garching, Germany, January 2015
On behalf of the Management Board
Michael Knopp
Chief Financial Officer (Speaker)Walter Braun
Chief Operating OfficerOn behalf of the Supervisory Board
Dr. Stefan Reineck
Chairman of the Supervisory Board - Declaration of Compliance 2014
The Management Board and Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec AG make the following declaration in accordance with Section 161 (1) of the German Stock Corporation Law (AktG):
With the exception of the following declared deviations, SUSS MicroTec AG has complied and will continue to comply with the recommendations of the Government Commission on the German Corporate Governance Code in the version as of May 13, 2013:
Deductible for D&O Insurance
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in Section 3.8 that upon concluding a directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policy, a deductible for the company Supervisory Board that complies with the legal requirements for board members be agreed. SUSS MicroTec AG has had D&O insurance without any body-specific deductible for the Supervisory Board for several years. In SUSS MicroTec’s opinion, responsible actions of the Supervisory Board are not additionally promoted through the agreement of a corresponding deductible.
Vertical Remuneration Comparison
In Section 4.2.2 the German Corporate Governance code recommends taking into account in setting Management Board remuneration the ratio of Management Board remuneration to upper management remuneration as well as to that of the overall staff, including the trend over time. In the process, the Supervisory Board decides how upper management and the relevant staff are defined.
The Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec AG is of the opinion that determining senior management and the relevant staff, taking the trend over time into account, can lead in practice to substantial legal uncertainties. Therefore, SUSS MicroTec is declaring a deviation from the Code as a precaution to this extent.
Pension commitments
Under Section 4.2.3 the German Corporate Governance code recommends that the Supervisory Board take into account in pension commitments the respective targeted remuneration level – also according to the length of service in the Management Board – and the resultant annual and long-term expense for the Company.
The Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec will deviate from this recommendation because no set “remuneration level” is targeted for Management Board members in retirement. Instead, the goal is remuneration in line with the market and the Company for active service. As a rule, no defined benefit commitments in which the Company provides the promised benefit are granted to members of the Management Board. To the extent that the Company makes a contribution to a pension plan and pays into a direct insurance policy (whole life insurance or retirement insurance), this is not linked to a commitment to a certain remuneration level.
Creation of Committees
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in Section 5.3 the creation of professionally qualified committees, depending on the specific circumstances of the company and the number of its Supervisory Board members. As the Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec only consists of three members, the creation of committees, which usually must be comprised of at least three members, is not possible and on the whole not necessary as there is plenty of scope for intense and detailed discussions to take place within the full council of the Board.
Targets for the Composition of the Supervisory Board
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in Section 5.4.1 (2) and (3) the enumeration of specific targets for the composition of the Supervisory Board. In enumerating specific targets, account should be taken of the international activities of the company, potential conflicts of interest, an established age limit for Supervisory Board members, and diversity subject to the company’s particular situation. In particular, the specific targets should provide for appropriate representation of women. Since the new version of the GCGC as of May 15, 2012, a specific indication of the targeted number of independent Supervisory Board members is recommended. Proposals by the Supervisory Board to the Shareholders’ Meeting should take these targets into account. SUSS MicroTec is refraining from setting specific targets and quotas in the above-mentioned spirit. In the view of SUSS MicroTec, the qualifications of Supervisory Board candidates are the primary criteria for assuming a Supervisory Board position and therefore for the composition of the Supervisory Board. In proposals for the composition of the Supervisory Board, SUSS MicroTec supports and considers the criteria specified in Section 5.4.1 (2) and (3) GCGC, but it does not regard specific targets or quotas as expedient.
Creation of Committees
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in Section 5.3 the creation of professionally qualified committees, depending on the specific circumstances of the company and the number of its Supervisory Board members. As the Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec only consists of three members, the creation of committees, which usually must be comprised of at least three members, is not possible and on the whole not necessary as there is plenty of scope for intense and detailed discussions to take place within the full council of the Board.
Furthermore, since the issuance of the most recent annual declaration of compliance in January 2013, SUSS MicroTec AG has complied with the recommendations of the Government Commission of the German Corporate Governance Code in the version as of May 15, 2012 and, since its publication in the Federal Gazette, in the version as of May 13, 2013 with the exceptions enumerated above in Section 1. In addition, until the German Corporate Governance Code as of May 13, 2013 took effect, the Company did not comply with the following recommendation, which is no longer included in the current version of the Code:
The German Corporate Governance Code in the version as of May 15, 2012 recommended in Section 2.3.2 sending notification of the convening of the Shareholders’ Meeting along with the convention documents to all domestic and foreign financial services providers, shareholders, and shareholders’ associations by electronic means if the approval requirements are fulfilled. SUSS MicroTec will only send notification of the convening, including the convention documents, by electronic means if shareholders, shareholders’ associations, or financial service providers request us to do so. Automatic electronic transmission to all the parties named in Section 2.3.2 will not occur. After the conversion from bearer to registered shares, the Company examined the possibility of automatic electronic notification of the convening of the Shareholders’ Meeting, including the convention documents, and decided not to do so despite the recommendation of the German Corporate Governance Code. The ownership information of SUSS MicroTec indicates a very large share of private shareholders whose email addresses are not known to the Company. Therefore, a mailing cannot be completely avoided. We do not regard parallel notification by electronic means and by post to be expedient since the benefits do not justify the related costs.
Garching, Germany, January 2014
On behalf of the Management Board
Frank Averdung
Chief Executive OfficerMichael Knopp
Chief Financial OfficerOn behalf of the Supervisory Board
Dr. Stefan Reineck
Chairman of the Supervisory Board - Declaration of Compliance 2013
The Management Board and Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec AG make the following declaration in accordance with Section 161 (1) of the German Stock Corporation Law (AktG):
SUSS MicroTec AG will comply with the recommendations of the German Corporate Governance Code in the version from May 15, 2012 with the following exceptions. In addition, it has complied with the recommendations of the Code in the version from May 26, 2010 since publication of the last Declaration of Compliance, dated May 2012, with the exceptions mentioned in that report.
Invitation to the Shareholders' Meeting
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in 2.3.2 sending notification of the convening of the Shareholders' Meeting along with the convention documents to all domestic and foreign financial services providers, shareholders, and shareholders' associations by electronic means if the approval requirements are fulfilled. SUSS MicroTec will only send notification of the convening, including the convention documents, by electronic means if shareholders, shareholders' associations, or financial service providers request us to do so. Automatic electronic transmission to all the parties named in 2.3.2 is not planned. After the introduction of registered shares, SUSS MicroTec has thoroughly evaluated the possibility of an automatic electronic transmission of the notification of the convening of the Shareholders' Meeting along with the convention documents. Following this evaluation and despite the recommendation of the German Corporate Governance Code, SUSS MicroTec decided not to comply with the recommendation. The shareholder structure of SUSS MicroTec consists to a large extend of private shareholders, whose Email-addresses are not entirely known to the Company. Because of this a complete waiver of the postal distribution of the convening of the Shareholders' Meeting is not possible. SUSS MicroTec considers a parallel distribution on the postal and electronic way not sensible because the costs would largely exceed the benefits.
Deductible for D&O Insurance
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in 3.8 an agreement on a deductible for the Supervisory Board of the Corporation consistent with the legal provisions for members of the Management Board upon concluding a directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policy. SUSS MicroTec AG has had D&O insurance without any body-specific deductible for the Supervisory Board for several years. In SUSS MicroTec’s opinion, responsible actions of the Supervisory Board are not additionally promoted through the agreement of a corresponding deductible.
Creation of Committees
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in 5.3 creating professionally qualified committees depending on the specific circumstances of the company and the number of its Supervisory Board members. As SUSS MicroTec's Supervisory Board only consists of three members, the creation of committees, which usually must be com-prised of at least three members, is not possible and on the whole not necessary as there is plenty of scope for intense and detailed discussions to take place within the full Board.
Specific objectives regarding the composition of the supervisory board
Section 5.4.1 paras. 2 and 3 GCGC recommends setting specific objectives regarding the composition of the supervisory board, which, considering the specifics of the company, take into account the international activities of the company, potential conflicts of interest, an age limit to be specified for the members of the supervisory board, and diversity. These specific objectives shall, in particular, stipulate an appropriate degree of female representation. The GCGC as amended on 15 May 2012 now recommends taking also the number of the independent supervisory board members into account. These objectives shall be considered by the supervisory board when making recommendations to the General Meeting. SUSS MicroTec AG does not set any specific objectives or establishes any quotas, as defined above. SUSS MicroTec AG is convinced that the qualification of the supervisory board candidates is the decisive criterion for taking a seat on the supervisory board and thus the composition of the supervisory board. When making recommendations for the composition of the supervisory board, SUSS MicroTec AG endorses and takes into account the criteria mentioned in section 5.4.1 paras. 2 and 3, but does not consider it useful to set specific objectives or quotas.
Garching, Germany, January 2013
On behalf of the Management Board
Frank Averdung
Chief Executive OfficerMichael Knopp
Chief Financial OfficerOn behalf of the Supervisory Board
Dr. Stefan Reineck
Chairman of the Supervisory Board - Declaration of Compliance 2012
The Management Board and Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec AG make the following declaration in accordance with Section 161 (1) of the German Stock Corporation Law (AktG):
SUSS MicroTec AG complied with the recommendations of the German Corporate Governance Code in the version from May 26, 2010 since the last declaration of compliance from July 28, 2011 with five exceptions – invitation to the Shareholders' Meeting, a deductible for D&O insurance, the creation of committees, and the performance-based remuneration of Supervisory Board members and will comply with these five exemptions in the future.
Invitation to the Shareholders' Meeting
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in 2.3.2 sending notification of the convening of the Shareholders' Meeting along with the convention documents to all domestic and foreign financial services providers, shareholders, and shareholders' associations by electronic means if the approval requirements are fulfilled. SUSS MicroTec will only send notification of the convening, including the convention documents, by electronic means if shareholders, shareholders' associations, or financial service providers request us to do so. Automatic electronic transmission to all the parties named in 2.3.2 is not planned. After the introduction of registered shares, SUSS MicroTec has thoroughly evaluated the possibility of an automatic electronic transmission of the notification of the convening of the Shareholders' Meeting along with the convention documents. Following this evaluation and despite the recommendation of the German Corporate Governance Code, SUSS MicroTec decided not to comply with the recommendation. The shareholder structure of SUSS MicroTec consists to a large extend of private shareholders, whose Email-addresses are not entirely known to the Company. Because of this a complete waiver of the postal distribution of the convening of the Shareholders' Meeting is not possible. SUSS MicroTec considers a parallel distribution on the postal and electronic way not sensible because the costs would largely exceed the benefits.
Postal voting
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in Section 2.3.3 Sentence 2 that a company support the shareholders by providing postal voting opportunities. The possibility of postal voting provided by the German Act on Implementing the Shareholders' Rights Directive (ARUG) is as yet still subject to numerous legal and practical complications. For this reason, and taking into consideration the administrative expense associated with postal voting combined with the possibility provided by the Company of authorizing a proxy by electronic means, SUSS MicroTec will not be complying with this recommendation for the time being.
Deductible for D&O Insurance
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in 3.8 an agreement on a deductible for the Supervisory Board of the Corporation consistent with the legal provisions for members of the Management Board upon concluding a directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policy. SUSS MicroTec AG has had D&O insurance without any body-specific deductible for the Supervisory Board for several years. In SUSS MicroTec’s opinion, responsible actions of the Supervisory Board are not additionally promoted through the agreement of a corresponding deductible.
Creation of Committees
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in 5.3 creating professionally qualified committees depending on the specific circumstances of the company and the number of its Supervisory Board members. As SUSS MicroTec's Supervisory Board only consists of three members, the creation of committees, which usually must be comprised of at least three members, is not possible and on the whole not necessary as there is plenty of scope for intense and detailed discussions to take place within the full Board.
Remuneration of Supervisory Board Members
In Section 5.4.6 Paragraph 2 the German Corporate Governance Code recommends performance-based remuneration of the Supervisory Board members. The remuneration of Supervisory Board members is stipulated in Section 19 of the articles of incorporation. SUSS MicroTec AG’s articles of incorporation currently do not call for a performance-based remuneration of the Supervisory Board. In the Company’s opinion, responsible actions of the Supervisory Board are not additionally promoted through the agreement of performance-based remuneration.
Garching, Germany, May 2012
On behalf of the Management Board
Frank Averdung
Chief Executive OfficerMichael Knopp
Chief Financial OfficerOn behalf of the Supervisory Board
Dr. Stefan Reineck
Chairman of the Supervisory Board - Declaration of Compliance 2011
The Management Board and Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec AG make the following declaration in accordance with Section 161 (1) of the German Stock Corporation Law (AktG):
SUSS MicroTec AG complied with the recommendations of the German Corporate Govern-ance Code in the version from May 26, 2010 since the last declaration of compliance from November 2, 2010 with five exceptions – invitation to the Shareholders' Meeting, a deductible for D&O insurance, the creation of committees, and the performance-based remuneration of Supervisory Board members and will comply with these five exemptions in the future.
Invitation to the Shareholders' Meeting
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in 2.3.2 sending notification of the convening of the Shareholders' Meeting along with the convention documents to all domestic and foreign financial services providers, shareholders, and shareholders' associations by electronic means if the approval requirements are fulfilled. SUSS MicroTec will only send notification of the convening, including the convention documents, by electronic means if shareholders, shareholders' associations, or financial service providers request us to do so. Automatic electronic transmission to all the parties named in 2.3.2 is not possible as SUSS MicroTec AG has issued bearer shares and the shareholders' names and addresses are therefore not known. On June 21, 2011, at the Annual General Meeting, the shareholders voted in favor of introducing registered shares. Based on this decision the company will evaluate whether compliance with this recommendation will be possible in the future.
Postal voting
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in Section 2.3.3 Sentence 2 that a company support the shareholders by providing postal voting opportunities. The possibility of postal voting provided by the German Act on Implementing the Shareholders' Rights Directive (ARUG) is as yet still subject to numerous legal and practical complications. For this reason, and taking into consideration the administrative expense associated with postal voting combined with the possibility provided by the Company of authorizing a proxy by electronic means, SUSS MicroTec will not be complying with this recommendation for the time being.
Deductible for D&O Insurance
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in 3.8 an agreement on a deductible for the Supervisory Board of the Corporation consistent with the legal provisions for members of the Management Board upon concluding a directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policy. SUSS MicroTec AG has had D&O insurance without any body-specific deductible for the Supervisory Board for several years. In SUSS MicroTec’s opinion, responsible actions of the Supervisory Board are not additionally promoted through the agreement of a corresponding deductible.
Creation of Committees
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in 5.3 creating professionally qualified committees depending on the specific circumstances of the company and the number of its Supervisory Board members. As SUSS MicroTec's Supervisory Board only consists of three members, the creation of committees, which usually must be comprised of at least three members, is not possible and on the whole not necessary as there is plenty of scope for intense and detailed discussions to take place within the full Board.
Remuneration of Supervisory Board Members
In Section 5.4.6 Paragraph 2 the German Corporate Governance Code recommends performance-based remuneration of the Supervisory Board members. The remuneration of Supervisory Board members is stipulated in Section 19 of the articles of incorporation. SUSS MicroTec AG’s articles of incorporation currently do not call for a performance-based remuneration of the Supervisory Board. In the Company’s opinion, responsible actions of the Supervisory Board are not additionally promoted through the agreement of performance-based remuneration.
Garching, Germany, July 2011
On behalf of the Management Board
Frank Averdung
Chief Executive OfficerMichael Knopp
Chief Financial OfficerOn behalf of the Supervisory Board
Dr. Stefan Reineck
Chairman of the Supervisory Board - Declaration of Compliance 2010
The Management Board and Supervisory Board of SUSS MicroTec AG make the following declaration in accordance with Section 161 (1) of the German Stock Corporation Law (AktG):
SUSS MicroTec AG will comply with the recommendations of the German Corporate Governance Code in the version from May 26, 2010 with the following five exceptions. In addition, it has complied with the recommendations of the Code in the version from June 18, 2009 with four exceptions – invitation to the Shareholders' Meeting, a deductible for D&O insurance, the creation of committees, and the performance-based remuneration of Supervisory Board members – during the period from November 3, 2009 to November 2, 2010.
Invitation to the Shareholders' Meeting
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in 2.3.2 sending notification of the convening of the Shareholders' Meeting along with the convention documents to all domestic and foreign financial services providers, shareholders, and shareholders' associations by electronic means if the approval requirements are fulfilled. SUSS MicroTec will only send notification of the convening, including the convention documents, by electronic means if shareholders, shareholders' associations, or financial service providers request us to do so. Automatic electronic transmission to all the parties named in 2.3.2 is not possible as SUSS MicroTec AG has issued bearer shares and the shareholders' names and addresses are therefore not known.
Postal voting
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in Section 2.3.3 Sentence 2 that a company support the shareholders by providing postal voting opportunities. The possibility of postal voting provided by the German Act on Implementing the Shareholders' Rights Directive (ARUG) is as yet still subject to numerous legal and practical complications. For this reason, and taking into consideration the administrative expense associated with postal voting combined with the possibility provided by the Company of authorizing a proxy by electronic means, SUSS MicroTec will not be complying with this recommendation for the time being.
Deductible for D&O Insurance
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in 3.8 an agreement on a deductible for the Supervisory Board of the Corporation consistent with the legal provisions for members of the Management Board upon concluding a directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policy. SUSS MicroTec AG has had D&O insurance without any body-specific deductible for the Supervisory Board for several years. In SUSS MicroTec’s opinion, responsible actions of the Supervisory Board are not additionally promoted through the agreement of a corresponding deductible.
Creation of Committees
The German Corporate Governance Code recommends in 5.3 creating professionally qualified committees depending on the specific circumstances of the company and the number of its Supervisory Board members. As SUSS MicroTec's Supervisory Board only consists of three members, the creation of committees, which usually must be comprised of at least three members, is not possible and on the whole not necessary as there is plenty of scope for intense and detailed discussions to take place within the full Board.
Remuneration of Supervisory Board Members
In Section 5.4.6 Paragraph 2 the German Corporate Governance Code recommends performance-based remuneration of the Supervisory Board members. The remuneration of Supervisory Board members is stipulated in Section 13 of the articles of incorporation. SUSS MicroTec AG’s articles of incorporation currently do not call for a performance-based remuneration of the Supervisory Board. In the Company’s opinion, responsible actions of the Supervisory Board are not additionally promoted through the agreement of performance-based remuneration.
Garching, Germany, November 2010
On behalf of the Management Board
Frank Averdung
Chief Executive OfficerMichael Knopp
Chief Financial OfficerOn behalf of the Supervisory Board
Dr. Stefan Reineck
Chairman of the Supervisory Board