Workflow
Afya(AFYA) - 2024 Q4 - Annual Report
AfyaAfya(US:AFYA)2025-04-29 01:47

PART I ITEM 1. Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers Information regarding the identity of directors, senior management, and advisers is not applicable for this report - Information regarding the identity of directors, senior management, and advisers is not applicable for this report41 ITEM 2. Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable Information on offer statistics and expected timetable is not applicable - Information on offer statistics and expected timetable is not applicable42 ITEM 3. Key Information Provides critical information about the company, including capitalization, indebtedness, offer reasons, use of proceeds, and a comprehensive overview of risk factors A. Reserved This subsection is reserved and contains no specific information - This subsection is reserved and contains no specific information43 B. Capitalization and Indebtedness Information on capitalization and indebtedness is not applicable in this section - Information on capitalization and indebtedness is not applicable in this section43 C. Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds Information on reasons for the offer and use of proceeds is not applicable in this section - Information on reasons for the offer and use of proceeds is not applicable in this section44 D. Risk Factors The company faces significant risks from intense competition, regulatory changes, growth management, cybersecurity threats, and its concentrated ownership structure within a volatile Brazilian economic environment - The company faces significant competition in its programs, which could lead to market share loss and reduced profitability if it fails to compete effectively4653 - Changes in government regulations and legislation, particularly concerning education programs like FIES and PROUNI, or tax reforms, could adversely affect cash flows and financial condition386566676869707172737576777879808182838485 - The company's revenues are highly concentrated in medical courses and other health sciences programs (87.1% of undergraduate revenue in 2024), making it vulnerable to adverse economic, market, or regulatory factors affecting these programs198 - Difficulties in identifying, acquiring, and effectively integrating new medical higher education institutions and healthtech companies could hinder strategic and financial goals136137138 - Failure to prevent or detect cyber-attacks on systems and databases could result in misappropriation of confidential information, reputational damage, and significant financial impact139140141142143144145146147148149150151 - The concentration of ownership and voting power in Bertelsmann (75.8% of voting power) limits the ability of other shareholders to influence corporate matters55239 - The Brazilian federal government's significant influence over the economy, including political instability, inflation, and exchange rate volatility, could harm the company's business and stock price217218219220221222223224225226227228229230231232233234 - New artificial intelligence (AI) regulations in Brazil, approved by the Senate in December 2024 and under House consideration, may impose additional compliance costs and operational challenges, impacting the development and deployment of AI-based tools207208209 ITEM 4. Information on the Company Details Afya's history, business overview, organizational structure, and assets, highlighting its evolution as a leading medical education group and its strategic growth A. History and Development of the Company Afya Limited was incorporated in March 2019 in the Cayman Islands and listed on Nasdaq in July 2019, growing through strategic acquisitions and becoming controlled by Bertelsmann in 2022 - Afya Limited was incorporated on March 22, 2019, in the Cayman Islands and completed its initial public offering on Nasdaq in July 2019283313 - The company's origins trace back to 1999 with the founding of its first medical school, Centro Universitário ITPAC, by the Esteves Family, focusing on medical and related health courses291 - Key acquisitions include Medcel (2004) for online medical preparatory courses and IPEMED (2006) for medical graduate and specialization, both later merged into Afya Brazil289292301 - Bertelsmann became the controlling shareholder on May 4, 2022, acquiring a 57.5% voting interest, aiming to further expand medical education and digital health services320 - As of December 31, 2024, 22,867 physicians had graduated from the company's predecessor institutions291 B. Business Overview Afya is Brazil's leading medical education group, offering an end-to-end physician-centric ecosystem through undergraduate, continuing education, and medical practice solutions segments, leveraging innovative methodologies and strategic growth - Afya is the leading medical education group in Brazil based on the number of private medical school seats, delivering an end-to-end physician-centric ecosystem321 Key Operational Metrics (2022-2024) | Metric | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | | :----------------------------------- | :------- | :------- | :------- | | Total Enrolled Students | 76,988 | 66,034 | 58,200 | | Medical School Operating Seats | 3,543 | 3,113 | 2,773 | | Medical School Approved Seats | 3,593 | 3,163 | 2,823 | | Medical School Occupancy Rate | ~100.0% | ~100.0% | ~100.0% | | Third-party schools adopting Medcel content | 17 | 17 | - | Financial Highlights (2022-2024, R$ millions) | Metric | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | | :----------------------------------- | :--------- | :--------- | :--------- | | Total Revenue | 3,304.3 | 2,875.9 | 2,329.1 | | Net Income | 648.9 | 405.4 | 392.7 | | Adjusted EBITDA | 1,455.6 | 1,165.7 | 961.9 | | Net Cash Flows from Operating Activities | 1,433 | 1,044 | 844 | | Operating Cash Conversion Ratio | 102.2% | 97.1% | 94.4% | - The company's business model is characterized by high revenue visibility (90% from monthly tuition fees) and operating leverage, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.1% for revenue and 28.5% for net income since 2022338340 - Afya's growth strategies include the maturation of current authorized medical school seats, opening new campuses under the 'Mais Médicos II' program, expanding medical residency preparation and graduate program enrollments, cross-selling across its student base, expanding B2B capabilities, and selectively pursuing M&A opportunities362363364365366367368369370371372373 - The company's end-to-end physician-centric ecosystem is supported by an innovative, data-oriented methodology (standardized curricula, active learning, blended learning, adaptive learning), a cutting-edge digital platform (web portal, assessment tools, tutoring/mentoring, digital health services), and a state-of-the-art operating environment (modern facilities, specialization centers, practical learning network with over 614 partner hospitals)453457458459460 C. Organizational Structure Afya Limited operates as a holding company with all subsidiaries in Brazil, streamlining operations through mergers of several entities into Afya Brazil in 2024 or 2025 - All of Afya's subsidiaries are incorporated in Brazil563 - Medcel, IPEMED, PEBMED, Cardiopapers, and Além da Medicina were merged into Afya Brazil in 2024, and UNIDOM in 2025, simplifying the corporate structure565 D. Property, Plant and Equipment The company's corporate headquarters and branches are leased, with nearly all operational facilities leased as of December 31, 2024, and facility needs regularly assessed - Corporate headquarters are in Nova Lima, Minas Gerais, with branches in Belo Horizonte, São Paulo, and Rio de Janeiro, all under lease agreements566 - As of December 31, 2024, almost all operational, sales, and administrative facilities are leased567 - The company periodically reviews its facility requirements and may acquire new space or dispose of facilities as needed567 ITEM 4A. Unresolved Staff Comments There are no unresolved staff comments to report - There are no unresolved staff comments568 ITEM 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects Provides a detailed analysis of the company's operating results, liquidity, capital resources, R&D, market trends, and critical accounting estimates, highlighting significant revenue and net income growth A. Operating Results Afya reported strong operating results for 2024, with significant revenue and net income increases driven by medical school seat maturation, strategic acquisitions, and segment restructuring for synergy - Afya is the leading medical education group in Brazil, with 76,988 enrolled students as of December 31, 2024, an increase of 16.6% from 2023569571 - The company's growth is driven by the maturation of medical school seats, expansion of medical residency and graduate programs, cross-selling, M&A (Unidom in 2024, DelRey in 2023), and synergy extraction from acquisitions573 Consolidated Income Statement Data (R$ millions) | Metric | 2024 | 2023 | Change (%) | | :----------------------------------- | :------- | :------- | :--------- | | Revenue | 3,304.3 | 2,875.9 | 14.9% | | Cost of services | (1,215.6) | (1,109.8) | 9.5% | | Gross profit | 2,088.7 | 1,766.1 | 18.3% | | Selling, general and administrative expenses | (1,069.3) | (1,014.7) | 5.4% | | Operating income | 1,012.1 | 767.1 | 31.9% | | Net income | 648.9 | 405.4 | 60.1% | Revenue by Segment (R$ millions) | Segment | 2024 | 2023 | % Change | | :-------------------- | :------- | :------- | :--------- | | Undergrad | 2,895.7 | 2,511.0 | 15.3% | | Continuing Education | 255.4 | 235.8 | 8.3% | | Medical Practice Solutions | 161.8 | 140.3 | 15.3% | | Total | 3,304.3 | 2,875.9 | 14.9% | - The company's reporting segments were restructured in 2024, moving all medical education products and services (excluding undergraduate courses) from Medical Practice Solutions to the Continuing Education segment to integrate capabilities and explore synergies603635 Medical School Key Metrics | Metric | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | | :----------------------------------- | :------- | :------- | :------- | | Approved Seats | 3,593 | 3,163 | 2,823 | | Operating Seats | 3,543 | 3,113 | 2,773 | | Total Students (end of period) | 24,255 | 21,446 | 17,968 | | Medical School Net Avg. Ticket (R$/month) | 8,849 | 8,460 | 7,973 | - The Brazilian government's implementation of the OECD Pillar Two global minimum tax, effective January 1, 2025, introduces a minimum effective taxation of 15% through an additional Social Contribution tax on Net Profit (CSLL), which is expected to impact the company's effective tax rate and results of operations626627628629 B. Liquidity and Capital Resources Afya's liquidity and capital resources are strong, with R$911.0 million in cash and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2024, and significantly increased operating cash flows, while managing debt and capital expenditures Cash Flow Data (R$ millions) | Metric | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | | :----------------------------------- | :--------- | :--------- | :--------- | | Net cash flows from operating activities | 1,432.7 | 1,043.6 | 843.9 | | Net cash flows used in investing activities | (1,091.6) | (1,143.0) | (591.5) | | Net cash flows (used in) from financing activities | 24.0 | (439.9) | 92.9 | - As of December 31, 2024, cash and cash equivalents totaled R$911.0 million, a 64.7% increase from R$553.0 million in 2023674681 - Net cash flows from operating activities increased by R$389.1 million (37.3%) in 2024, primarily due to the Unidom acquisition and improved operating results676 Loans and Financings (R$ thousands) | Financial institution | 2024 | 2023 | | :-------------------- | :--------- | :--------- | | Banco Itaú Unibanco S.A. | 309,496 | 412,880 | | FINEP | 8,209 | 11,193 | | Softbank (Series A Preferred Shares) | 845,492 | 825,957 | | Debentures | 526,946 | 529,340 | | IFC | 505,018 | - | | Total Loans and Financing | 2,195,161 | 1,800,775 | - In August 2024, Afya Brazil secured a R$500.0 million sustainability-linked loan from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), with interest rate reductions tied to social performance targets (free medical consultations and academic quality)686 - The company maintains compliance with financial covenants for its loans and debentures, including an Adjusted Net Debt to EBITDA ratio not exceeding 3.0x6836886901366 - Capital expenditures for 2024 were R$392.6 million, mainly for medical school seat expansion (Guanambi and UNIMA), campus maintenance, and digital solution development. A budget of R$267.9 million is set for 2025698699 C. Research and Development, Patents and Licenses Afya protects its products and services through intellectual property rights, holding 285 trademark registrations in Brazil and 5 abroad, with 119 pending applications, and 364 registered domain names - As of December 31, 2024, Afya owned 285 trademark registrations in Brazil and 5 abroad, with 119 pending applications in Brazil and 9 international applications700703 - The company also owns 364 registered domain names in Brazil and 53 internationally, and has registered three software programs in Brazil703 - A patent application is pending in Brazil, and trademark applications are pending in the United States (Afya, BioAtlas) and Mexico (Whitebook)700701 D. Trend Information No other material adverse trends, uncertainties, demands, commitments, or events for 2024 are identified beyond those disclosed in the report - No other material adverse trends, uncertainties, demands, commitments, or events for 2024 are identified beyond those disclosed in the report704 E. Critical Accounting Estimates The preparation of Afya's consolidated financial statements requires significant judgments and estimates, particularly for business combinations, impairment of non-financial assets, share-based compensation, and lease liabilities - Critical accounting estimates include the identification and fair-value measurement of assets and liabilities acquired in business combinations, especially contingent consideration1234 - Impairment testing of non-financial assets, particularly goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, relies on significant assumptions about future cash flows, growth rates, and discount rates12351236 - Estimating the fair value for share-based payment transactions (stock options, RSUs) requires appropriate valuation models and inputs like expected life, volatility, and dividend yield1237 - The company uses its incremental borrowing rate (IBR) to measure lease liabilities, which requires estimation when observable rates are unavailable or need adjustment12381239 ITEM 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees Outlines the composition and practices of Afya's board of directors and executive officers, their compensation, employee numbers, share ownership, and corporate governance structure A. Directors and Senior Management Afya's board consists of 10 members, with Bertelsmann and the Esteves Family appointing directors, and key executive officers including Virgilio Deloy Capobianco Gibbon (CEO), Luis André Blanco (CFO), and Lélio de Souza Junior (VP of Medical Practice Solutions) - The board of directors is composed of 10 members, with Bertelsmann entitled to appoint up to seven directors and the Esteves Family up to two, reflecting their ownership and voting power707709 - Key executive officers are Virgilio Deloy Capobianco Gibbon (CEO), Luis André Blanco (CFO), and Lélio de Souza Junior (VP of Medical Practice Solutions), all with extensive experience in education and technology721722723724725726 - A public civil proceeding against co-chairman Nicolau Carvalho Esteves, alleging irregular administrative acts, was concluded in his favor with a final unappealable judgment on March 10, 2025728 B. Compensation Key management personnel receive fixed and variable compensation, totaling R$41.1 million in 2024, with stock option and RSU programs incentivizing employees Key Management Personnel Compensation (R$ millions) | Compensation Type | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | | :------------------------ | :----- | :----- | :----- | | Short-term employee benefits | 21.2 | 17.0 | 13.6 | | Share-based compensation plans | 19.9 | 21.4 | 13.1 | | Total compensation | 41.1 | 38.4 | 26.7 | - The company operates a stock option plan (approved August 2019, amended) and a Restricted Stock Units (RSU) program (approved July 2022) to incentivize executives and employees732733735736 - As of December 31, 2024, 1,610,679 stock options and 656,634 restricted shares (RSUs) were outstanding under these plans735737 - In July 2023, a modification allowed stock option holders to exchange options for RSUs, with strike prices now adjusted by the IPCA rate instead of the CDI rate734 C. Board Practices Afya's board practices are governed by Cayman Islands law, outlining directors' fiduciary duties and integrated risk management, leveraging Nasdaq exemptions as a controlled company - Directors owe fiduciary duties to the company, including acting in good faith, exercising powers for proper purposes, and avoiding conflicts of interest, as per Cayman Islands law and the Articles of Association737738739 - Afya's integrated Risk Management is aligned with Bertelsmann's policy, employing a three-lines-of-defense model (risk owners, risk management/internal controls, internal audit) and overseen by the Board and Audit, Risks and Ethics Committee740741742 - The Audit, Risks and Ethics Committee, composed of independent directors, oversees financial reporting, audit processes, and risk management, including cybersecurity744745 - The People and ESG Committee reviews and approves compensation, oversees succession planning, and advises on sustainability and social responsibility matters748749 - As a 'controlled company' due to Bertelsmann's majority voting interest, Afya utilizes exemptions from certain Nasdaq corporate governance standards, such as having a majority of independent directors or independent committees for nominations and compensation751754 D. Employees As of December 31, 2024, Afya had 9,717 full-time employees, with 92% located outside Nova Lima, maintaining constructive relationships with labor unions - As of December 31, 2024, Afya had 9,717 full-time employees, with 92% located outside its Nova Lima offices756 Full-time Personnel by Function (2024) | Function | Number of Employees | % of Total | | :----------------------------------- | :------------------ | :--------- | | Management | 62 | 0.6% | | Shared Services Center and IT, Sales and Marketing | 1,056 | 10.9% | | Faculties | 3,941 | 40.6% | | General and Administrative | 4,658 | 47.9% | | Total | 9,717 | 100.0% | - The company reports a constructive relationship with labor unions, having experienced no strikes, work stoppages, or disputes leading to downtime756 E. Share Ownership Information on share ownership of directors and senior management, and stock options/RSUs, is referenced to other sections of the report - Information on share ownership of directors and senior management, and stock options/RSUs, is referenced to other sections of the report757 F. Disclosure of a Registrant's Action to Recover Erroneously Awarded Compensation Afya adopted a compensation recoupment policy on November 30, 2023, with no accounting restatement or recovery of awarded compensation required under it during or after the last fiscal year - Afya adopted a compensation recoupment policy on November 30, 2023758 - No accounting restatement or recovery of awarded compensation has been required under the policy during or after the last completed fiscal year758 ITEM 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions Details beneficial ownership, highlighting significant control by Bertelsmann and the Esteves Family through a dual-class share structure, and outlines material related party transactions, primarily lease agreements A. Major Shareholders Bertelsmann and the Esteves Family collectively control Afya, with Bertelsmann holding 75.8% of the total voting power through a dual-class share structure where Class B common shares carry 10 votes per share Beneficial Ownership of Shares (as of report date) | Shareholder | Class A Shares (%) | Class B Shares (%) | Series A Preferred Shares (%) | % of Total Voting Power | | :----------------------------------- | :----------------- | :----------------- | :---------------------------- | :------------------------ | | Bertelsmann SE & Co. KGaA | 57.0% | 77.8% | — | 75.8% | | Nicolau Carvalho Esteves | 0.2% | 22.2% | — | 20.1% | | Rosângela de Oliveira Tavares Esteves | 0.2% | 22.2% | — | 20.1% | | Renato Tavares Esteves | 3.3% | — | — | 0.3% | | Vanessa Tavares Esteves | 3.1% | — | — | 0.3% | | Lílian Tavares Esteves de Carvalho | 3.3% | — | — | 0.3% | | Ronald Baron | 5.1% | — | — | 0.5% | | SoftBank Group Corp. | 5.2% | — | 100% | 0.5% | | FMR LLC | 5.6% | — | — | 0.5% | - Bertelsmann and the Esteves Family, through their Class B common shares (10 votes per share), collectively control a majority of the voting power, limiting the influence of other shareholders764774 - As of the report date, there are 46,586,054 outstanding Class A common shares, 43,802,763 Class B common shares, and 150,000 Series A perpetual convertible preferred shares763 - A Shareholders' Agreement between certain Esteves family members and Bertelsmann ensures cooperation and includes a non-compete obligation for the Esteves family776777 B. Related Party Transactions Afya engages in material related party transactions, primarily lease agreements with entities controlled by significant shareholders, with total lease payments amounting to R$34.6 million in 2024, approved under a specific policy - Afya has lease agreements with RVL Esteves Gestão Imobiliária S.A., UNIVAÇO Patrimonial Ltda., and IESVAP Patrimonial Ltda., all controlled by significant shareholders779788789 Lease Payments to Related Parties (R$ millions) | Related Party | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | | :----------------------------------- | :----- | :----- | :----- | | RVL Esteves Gestão Imobiliária S.A. | 25.7 | 23.4 | 20.4 | | UNIVAÇO Patrimonial Ltda. | 3.6 | 3.6 | 3.4 | | IESVAP Patrimonial Ltda. | 5.2 | 5.2 | 4.9 | | Total Lease Payments | 34.6 | 32.2 | 28.7 | - The company's related person transaction policy requires approval or ratification by executive officers and the board of directors, considering commercial reasonableness and benefit to the company and shareholders791792793 C. Interests of Experts and Counsel Information on the interests of experts and counsel is not applicable - Information on the interests of experts and counsel is not applicable796 ITEM 8. Financial Information Provides an overview of Afya's consolidated financial statements, legal and administrative proceedings, and dividend policy, detailing provisions for legal claims and the first-ever dividend distribution A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information Afya's consolidated financial statements are included in the exhibits, with R$113.5 million in provisions for legal proceedings as of December 31, 2024, and the board approved the first-ever dividend distribution of R$129.8 million in March 2025 - As of December 31, 2024, Afya had R$113.5 million in provisions for legal proceedings (civil, labor, tax) with a probable likelihood of loss, and R$16.9 million in judicial deposits801 - Selling shareholders of acquired subsidiaries are responsible for pre-acquisition liabilities, with R$78.7 million recorded as indemnification assets for such contingent liabilities802 - On March 12, 2025, the board approved the first-ever dividend distribution of R$129.8 million (R$1.348923 per share), paid on April 4, 2025820 - Future dividend payments are subject to board declaration, capital availability, market conditions, and distributions from Brazilian subsidiaries821823 - Brazilian subsidiaries are required to distribute a mandatory minimum dividend to shareholders each year, typically 25% or 50% of net income, unless suspended825827 B. Significant Changes No significant changes have occurred since the date of the audited consolidated financial statements, other than those disclosed elsewhere in the annual report - No significant changes have occurred since the date of the audited consolidated financial statements, other than those disclosed elsewhere in the annual report828 ITEM 9. The Offer and Listing Details Afya's initial public offering and follow-on offering, its listing on the Nasdaq Global Select Market, and states that other related information is not applicable for this report - Afya completed its initial public offering on July 19, 2019, and a follow-on offering on February 7, 2020829 - The company's common shares have been listed and traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol 'AFYA' since July 19, 2019829 - Information regarding the plan of distribution, markets, selling shareholders, dilution, and expenses of the issue is not applicable for this report830831832833834 ITEM 10. Additional Information Provides additional details on Afya's share capital, memorandum and articles of association, material contracts, exchange controls, and taxation, including its dual-class share structure and U.S. federal income tax considerations A. Share Capital Information on share capital is not applicable in this section, as it is detailed in the Memorandum and Articles of Association - Information on share capital is not applicable in this section, as it is detailed in the Memorandum and Articles of Association835 B. Memorandum and Articles of Association Afya's Articles of Association establish a dual-class share structure, concentrating voting power with Bertelsmann and the Esteves Family, and include anti-takeover provisions, share repurchase programs, and director duties under Cayman Islands law - Afya has a dual-class share structure: Class A common shares (one vote per share) and Class B common shares (ten votes per share), concentrating voting control with Bertelsmann and the Esteves Family840849915 - As of December 31, 2024, the total authorized share capital was US$50,000, divided into 1,000,000,000 shares, with 49,920,068 Class A, 43,802,763 Class B, and 150,000 Series A perpetual convertible preferred shares issued and outstanding838840 - Class B common shares have preemptive rights to maintain proportional ownership and generally convert to Class A upon transfer, except for specific permitted transfers844853854 - The Articles of Association include anti-takeover provisions, such as the dual-class structure and the board's power to issue preferred shares, which may discourage changes in control914915917 - Afya has implemented four share repurchase programs, with the fourth program approved in March 2023 to repurchase up to 2,000,000 Class A common shares by December 31, 2024, for stock option programs, acquisitions, and general corporate purposes881882884885887 - Directors owe fiduciary duties to the company under Cayman Islands law, including acting in good faith and avoiding conflicts of interest, with specific provisions in the Articles of Association for disclosure and voting on interested matters937941 - Key decisions, such as changing the number of directors, amending organizational documents, or issuing new shares, require prior written consent from Bertelsmann and the Esteves Family as long as they hold Class B common shares above a certain threshold873900 C. Material Contracts Information on material contracts is provided in other parts of the annual report, with no other material contracts outside the ordinary course of business entered into - Information on material contracts is provided in 'Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—B. Liquidity and Capital Resources' and 'Item 4. Information on the Company—B. Business Overview—Our Recent Acquisitions'958 - No other material contracts outside the ordinary course of business have been entered into958 D. Exchange Controls The Cayman Islands currently has no exchange control restrictions - The Cayman Islands currently has no exchange control restrictions959 E. Taxation Covers tax considerations for Afya in the Cayman Islands and for U.S. federal income tax purposes, including its 20-year tax concession and potential Passive Foreign Investment Company (PFIC) classification - The Cayman Islands currently levies no taxes on profits, income, gains, or appreciation for Afya, which has a 20-year tax concession960961 - Payments of dividends and capital, and gains from disposal of Class A common shares, are not subject to taxation in the Cayman Islands962 - For U.S. federal income tax purposes, distributions are generally treated as dividends, and gain on the sale or disposition of Class A common shares as capital gain970973 - The company believes it was not a Passive Foreign Investment Company (PFIC) for 2024, but its PFIC status is subject to change based on income, assets, and market price volatility, which could lead to adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences for U.S. investors975 F. Dividends and Paying Agents Information regarding dividends and paying agents is not applicable - Information regarding dividends and paying agents is not applicable987 G. Statement by Experts Information regarding statements by experts is not applicable - Information regarding statements by experts is not applicable988 H. Documents on Display Afya is subject to SEC informational requirements as a foreign private issuer, filing annual reports on Form 20-F and reports on Form 6-K, which are available on the SEC's website - Afya is subject to SEC informational requirements as a foreign private issuer, filing annual reports on Form 20-F and reports on Form 6-K989 - SEC filings are accessible on the SEC's website (www.sec.gov)[989](index=989&type=chunk) I. Subsidiary Information A description of the company's subsidiaries is provided in note 2.2 to the audited consolidated financial statements - A description of the company's subsidiaries is provided in note 2.2 to the audited consolidated financial statements990 J. Annual Report to Security Holders If required, the annual report to security holders will be submitted electronically via the EDGAR Filer Manual - If required, the annual report to security holders will be submitted electronically via the EDGAR Filer Manual991 ITEM 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk Afya is exposed to market risks, including interest rate and foreign currency fluctuations, which are monitored by management, with credit risk managed through established policies - Afya is exposed to market risks from interest rate changes and foreign currency fluctuations, as well as credit and liquidity risks99213491350 Interest Rate Sensitivity Analysis (R$ thousands, 2024) | Index | Base Rate | +75 bps Effect on Profit Before Tax | +150 bps Effect on Profit Before Tax | | :----------------------------------- | :---------- | :---------------------------------- | :----------------------------------- | | CDI (Cash equivalents, Loans, Accounts Payable) | (140,652) | (7,324) | (14,648) | | TJLP (Loans) | (610) | - | - | - Foreign currency risk primarily relates to R$21.6 million in U.S. dollar-denominated cash and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2024. A 10% change in the U.S. dollar exchange rate would result in a R$2.161 million effect on profit before tax996135413551356 - Credit risk from trade receivables is managed through established policies and regular monitoring. Credit risk from bank balances is managed by the treasury department with approved counterparties and limits99799813581359 Maturity Profile of Financial Liabilities (R$ thousands, 2024) | Liability Type | Less than 1 year | 1 to 3 years | 3 to 5 years | More than 5 years | Total | | :----------------------------------- | :--------------- | :----------- | :----------- | :---------------- | :---------- | | Trade payables | 128,080 | - | - | - | 128,080 | | Loans and financing | 526,659 | 1,494,287 | 617,818 | 75,526 | 2,714,290 | | Lease liabilities | 158,746 | 303,211 | 293,178 | 1,360,107 | 2,115,242 | | Accounts payable to selling shareholders | 205,322 | 150,565 | 99,100 | 373,498 | 828,485 | | Total | 1,018,807 | 1,948,063 | 1,010,096 | 1,809,131 | 5,786,097 | ITEM 12. Description of Securities Other Than Equity Securities Information regarding debt securities, warrants and rights, other securities, and American Depositary Shares is not applicable for this report - Information on debt securities, warrants and rights, other securities, and American Depositary Shares is not applicable100210031004 PART II ITEM 13. Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies No defaults, dividend arrearages, or delinquencies to report - No defaults, dividend arrearages, or delinquencies to report10061007 ITEM 14. Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds No material modifications to instruments or rights of security holders, nor any withdrawal or substitution of assets, change in trustees or paying agents, or use of proceeds to report - No material modifications to instruments or rights of security holders, withdrawal/substitution of assets, change in trustees/paying agents, or use of proceeds to report10081009101010111012 ITEM 15. Controls and Procedures Management assessed disclosure controls and internal control over financial reporting as effective, excluding Unidom's controls, with no significant changes identified during 2024 - Afya's disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2024, providing reasonable assurance for timely and accurate information disclosure1013 - Management concluded that internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2024, based on the COSO 2013 framework1017 - The assessment of internal control over financial reporting excluded Unidom, acquired in July 2024, which represented (0.1%) of consolidated total equity and 0.9% of consolidated total assets1016 - Ernst & Young Auditores Independentes S/S Ltda. (EY) issued an unqualified attestation report on the effectiveness of internal controls over financial reporting1018 - No significant changes in internal control over financial reporting occurred during 2024 that materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect it1019 ITEM 16. Reserved This section is reserved and contains no specific information - This section is reserved and contains no specific information1020 ITEM 16A. Audit Committee Financial Expert Afya's Audit, Risks and Ethics Committee consists of four financially literate members, with Marcelo Ken Suhara qualifying as an "audit committee financial expert" and all members satisfying independence requirements - The Audit, Risks and Ethics Committee has four members: Vanessa Claro Lopes, João Paulo Seibel de Faria, Miguel Filisbino Pereira de Paula, and Marcelo Ken Suhara1020 - Marcelo Ken Suhara qualifies as an "audit committee financial expert" as defined by the SEC1020 - All committee members are financially literate and satisfy the independence requirements of Rule 10A-3 under the Exchange Act1020 ITEM 16B. Code of Ethics Afya maintains a code of ethics applicable to all members and relevant third parties, outlining conduct standards, safeguarding financial records, managing conflicts of interest, and ensuring legal compliance, with whistleblowing procedures in place - Afya's code of ethics applies to all members (directors, officers, managers, teachers, staff) and relevant third parties (suppliers, consultants, service providers)1021 - The code sets forth conduct standards for interactions with stakeholders, safeguarding financial records, conflict of interest, confidential information, and legal compliance1021 - A whistleblowing channel is provided for reporting illicit conduct, with reports assessed by internal compliance bodies and the Internal Ethics and Conduct Commission1021 ITEM 16C. Principal Accountant Fees and Services Details the fees paid to Ernst & Young Auditores Independentes S/S Ltda. (EY) for audit and non-audit services in 2024 and 2023, all pre-approved by the audit committee Principal Accountant Fees (R$ millions) | Fee Type | 2024 | 2023 | | :-------------------- | :----- | :----- | | Audit fees | 8.7 | 7.7 | | Tax fees | 0.4 | 0.2 | | All other fees | — | — | | Total fees | 9.1 | 7.9 | - Audit fees include services for annual consolidated financial statements, internal control effectiveness, statutory financial statements of subsidiaries, interim financial statements, and acquired businesses1023 - Tax fees cover services related to the review of Brazilian tax reporting (ECF)1024 - All audit and non-audit services provided by EY are pre-approved by the audit committee1025 ITEM 16D. Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees Afya does not rely on any exemptions from the listing standards for audit committees, adhering to all applicable requirements - Afya does not rely on any exemptions from the listing standards for audit committees1026 ITEM 16E. Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers Afya did not repurchase Class A common shares in 2024, but Bertelsmann, an affiliated purchaser, continued its trading plan, purchasing 5,049,411 Class A common shares for approximately R$111.51 per share, extending the plan until May 31, 2026 - Afya did not repurchase any Class A common shares during the year ended December 31, 20241027 Shares Purchased by Bertelsmann (2024) | Period | Total Number of Shares Purchased | Average Price Paid per Share (R$) | | :----------------------------------- | :------------------------------- | :-------------------------------- | | January 1 to December 31, 2024 | 5,049,411 | 111.51 | - Bertelsmann, an affiliated purchaser, continued its Rule 10b5-1 trading plan, purchasing 5,049,411 Class A common shares in 202410291030 - Bertelsmann's trading plan was amended and extended until May 31, 20261030 ITEM 16F. Change in Registrant's Certifying Accountant There has been no change in the registrant's certifying accountant - There has been no change in the registrant's certifying accountant1031 ITEM 16G. Corporate Governance Afya's corporate governance is influenced by Cayman Islands law and its status as a foreign private issuer and controlled company, leveraging exemptions from certain Nasdaq rules while defining directors' duties and managing conflicts of interest - Afya, as a foreign private issuer, relies on exemptions from certain Nasdaq corporate governance rules, including those requiring a majority of independent directors and independent nominations/compensation committees10351037 - Cayman Islands law imposes fiduciary duties on directors, and the Articles of Association allow interested directors to vote on transactions after disclosing their interest1033 ITEM 16H. Mine Safety Disclosure Mine safety disclosure is not applicable - Mine safety disclosure is not applicable1036 ITEM 16I. Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions That Prevent Inspections Disclosure regarding foreign jurisdictions that prevent inspections is not applicable - Disclosure regarding foreign jurisdictions that prevent inspections is not applicable1036 ITEM 16J. Insider Trading Policies Afya maintains insider trading policies and procedures for directors, officers, employees, and the company, designed to ensure compliance with insider trading laws and Nasdaq listing standards - Afya maintains insider trading policies and procedures for directors, officers, employees, and the company1038 - These policies are designed to promote compliance with insider trading laws and Nasdaq listing standards1038 ITEM 16K. Cybersecurity Afya integrates cybersecurity risk management into its enterprise risk management (ERM) framework, overseen by its Chief Information Security Office (CISO), ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations and continuous adoption of technological solutions - Afya integrates cybersecurity risk management into its enterprise risk management (ERM) framework, with oversight from the Chief Information Security Office (CISO)10391041 - The CISO is responsible for defining action plans, ensuring compliance with data security and privacy protocols (LGPD, GDPR, NIST), and managing threat detection and incident response104010451049 - The company utilizes a three-lines-of-defense model for risk governance, involving risk owners, compliance/internal controls, and internal audit, with the Audit, Risk, and Ethics Committee overseeing cyber risks10431046 - Afya continuously adopts technological solutions for monitoring, detection, recovery, and protection, and maintains a comprehensive disaster recovery and business continuity plan10471048 - As of December 31, 2024, no material cybersecurity incidents affecting business strategy or financial condition were identified, though minor incidents were treated per protocols1050 PART III ITEM 17. Financial Statements The company has responded to Item 18 in lieu of this item, presenting financial statements under Item 18 - The company has responded to Item 18 in lieu of this item, presenting financial statements under Item 181053 ITEM 18. Financial Statements Contains Afya Limited's audited consolidated financial statements for 2024, 2023, and 2022, prepared in conformity with IFRS Accounting Standards, including statements of financial position, income, comprehensive income, changes in equity, and cash flows, along with detailed notes - The audited consolidated financial statements for Afya Limited are presented for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, prepared in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards1065107710791107 - The financial statements include consolidated statements of financial position, income and comprehensive income, changes in equity, and cash flows, along with comprehensive notes1063 - Ernst & Young Auditores Independentes S/S Ltda. issued an unqualified opinion on the financial statements and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting1065106610771079 - A critical audit matter identified was the accounting for business combinations, specifically the significant estimation uncertainty in measuring contingent consideration liability and the fair value of acquired intangible assets (licenses and customer relationships) for the Unidom acquisition in 2024106910701071 Consolidated Statements of Financial Position (R$ thousands) | Metric | 2024 | 2023 | | :----------------------------------- | :--------- | :--------- | | Total assets | 8,829,539 | 7,584,481 | | Total liabilities | 4,518,956 | 3,941,469 | | Total equity | 4,310,583 | 3,643,012 | Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income (R$ thousands) | Metric | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | | :----------------------------------- | :--------- | :--------- | :--------- | | Revenue | 3,304,329 | 2,875,913 | 2,329,057 | | Gross profit | 2,088,726 | 1,766,100 | 1,469,505 | | Operating income | 1,012,113 | 767,061 | 664,100 | | Net income | 648,920 | 405,416 | 392,756 | | Basic earnings per common share (R$) | 7.01 | 4.30 | 4.14 | | Diluted earnings per common share (R$) | 6.93 | 4.27 | 4.12 | Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (R$ thousands) | Metric | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | | :----------------------------------- | :--------- | :--------- | :--------- | | Net cash flows from operating activities | 1,432,659 | 1,043,623 | 843,899 | | Net cash flows used in investing activities | (1,091,613) | (1,143,051) | (591,469) | | Net cash flows generated (used) in financing activities | 23,966 | (439,943) | 92,942 | | Cash and cash equivalents at end of year | 911,015 | 553,030 | 1,093,082 | ITEM 19. Exhibits Lists all exhibits filed as part of the annual report on Form 20-F, including organizational documents, descriptions of securities, financial statements, certifications, and corporate policies - The section lists all exhibits filed with the annual report, including Amended and Restated Memorandum and Articles of Association, Description of Securities, List of Subsidiaries, Code of Ethics, Insider Trading Policy, and various certifications1055