Telefonica (TEF) Risk Analysis

The pace of innovation and Telefónica's ability to keep up with its competitors is a critical issue in a sector so affected by technology such as telecommunications. In this sense, significant additional investments will be needed in new high-capacity network infrastructures to enable Telefónica to offer the features that new services will demand, through the development of technologies such as 5G or fiber. New products and technologies are constantly emerging that can render products and services offered by the Telefónica Group, as well as its technology, obsolete. In addition, the explosion of the digital market and the entrance of new players in the communications market, such as mobile network virtual operators ("MNVOs"), internet companies, technology companies or device manufacturers, could result in a loss of value for certain of the Group's assets, affect the generation of revenues, or otherwise cause Telefónica to have to update its business model. In this respect, revenues from traditional voice businesses have been shrinking in recent years, while revenues from connectivity services (e.g., fixed and mobile internet) are increasing. To diversify revenue sources, Telefónica offers new digital services such as Internet of Things (IoT), cybersecurity, Big Data, Artificial Intelligence and cloud services among others. Although these services still have a substantially lower weight in Telefónica's total revenues, the related revenues represented more than 40% of the Company's B2B revenues in 2024 and grew by double digits compared to 2023. Additionally, the world of telecommunications is evolving towards a model of programmable networks and services. This type of network can be used by programmers in a completely new and different way than it had been in the past. As a first big step, the GSMA (Global System for Mobile Communications) is leading the Open Gateway initiative for the standardized exposure of APIs (Application Programming Interface) to developers. This is a totally new market in which telecommunications companies must be able to develop not only attractive services but new skills in order to be successful. One of the technologies currently being developed by telecommunications operators, including Telefónica (in Spain and Latin America), is the FTTx type networks which allow the offering of broadband accesses over fiber optics with high performance. However, the deployment of such networks, in which the copper of the access loop is totally or partially replaced by fiber, requires high levels of investment. In Spain, more than 90% of the retail copper network has been switched off. Due to regulatory requirements, the remaining portion of the network is expected to be switched off by May 2025. As of December 31, 2024, in Spain, fiber coverage reached 30.8 million premises. There is a growing demand for the services that these new networks can offer to the end customer. However, the high levels of investment required by these networks result in the need to continuously consider the expected return on investment. Telefónica is constantly looking for co-investments through Telefónica Infra, but it may not be able to identify suitable partners. In addition, the ability of the Telefónica Group's IT systems (operational and backup) to adequately support and evolve to respond to Telefónica's operating requirements is a key factor to consider in the commercial development, customer satisfaction and business efficiency of the Telefónica Group. While automation and other digital processes may lead to significant cost savings and efficiency gains, there are also significant risks associated with such transformation processes. Any failure by the Telefónica Group to develop or implement IT systems that adequately support and respond to the Group's evolving operating requirements could have an adverse effect on the Group's information, business, financial condition, results of operations and/or cash flows. The changes outlined above force Telefónica to continuously invest in the development of new products, technology and services to continue to compete effectively with current or future competitors. Any such investment may reduce the Group's profit and margins and may not lead to the development or commercialization of successful new products or services. To contextualize the Group's total research and development effort, the total expenditure in 2024 was 647 million euros (741 million euros in 2023), representing 1.6% of the Group's revenues (1.8% in 2023). These figures have been calculated using the guidelines established in the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development ("OECD") manual. Telefónica's investment in CapEx in 2024 was 5,475 million euros (5,579 million euros in 2023). If Telefónica is not able to anticipate and adapt to the technological changes and trends in the sector, or to properly select the investments to be made, this could negatively affect the Group's business, financial condition, results of operations and/or cash flows.

Telefónica's international presence enables the diversification of its activities across countries and regions, but it exposes Telefónica to diverse legislation, as well as to the political and economic environments of the countries in which it operates. Any adverse developments in these countries, such as economic uncertainty, inflationary pressures, rapid normalization of monetary policy, exchange rate or sovereign-risk fluctuations, as well as growing geopolitical tensions, may adversely affect Telefónica's business, financial position, debt management, cash flows and results of operations and/or the performance of some or all of the Group's financial indicators. In recent years, successive shocks have ushered in a period characterized by extraordinary uncertainty and the simultaneous occurrence of multiple negative disruptions. Inflationary pressures arising from bottlenecks associated with the rapid post-pandemic recovery, coupled with increases in commodity prices, led to a robust response from central banks (raising interest rates and withdrawing liquidity from the system) and a significant loss of purchasing power for consumers. Additionally, the recent higher wage demands observed internationally, reflecting both the strength of labour markets, especially those in major developed economies, and the prevalence (though to a lesser extent than in the past) of wage indexation mechanisms, have also contributed to these inflationary pressures. Although inflationary pressures eased in 2024, there are recent signs that progress is stalling in some countries where the Group operates, or even reversing course as in Brazil. Price pressures and relatively high interest rates persist in many countries. Geopolitical events such as the Russia-Ukraine war, armed conflict and political instability in the Middle East and the possible imposition of tariffs by major economies pose risks to inflation dynamics, interest rates and exchange rates. Moreover, there is a risk that the decrease in global liquidity and higher-for-longer interest rates could generate increased financial volatility, giving rise to new stress episodes, especially if inflation proves to be more persistent than expected. Additionally, premature monetary easing by central banks could lead to resurgent inflation, potentially triggering a new stagflation period akin to the 1970s. Looking forward, elements that could worsen the effects of the current situation include the escalation of armed conflicts and potential disruptions to energy and goods supply, as well as possible additional increases in commodity prices. This could result in a potential de-anchoring of inflation expectations and higher-than-expected wage hikes, prolonging and amplifying the inflation-recession scenario. As a consequence of the above, economic growth is expected to remain weak in the short term, with the risk of recession still present in some parts of the world. So far, the main European countries where the Group operates have been affected by the ongoing geopolitical conflicts mainly through the price channel (higher commodity prices, intermediate inputs and salary costs, among others), as their direct trade and financial exposure is limited. However, there continues to be a concern in Europe about energy dependence in the face of potential episodes of gas shortages and lengthening energy transition. Latin America could be affected by lower external demand associated with slower global growth, deteriorating terms of trade, tighter financial conditions and doubts about debt sustainability. As of December 31, 2024, the contribution of each segment to the Telefónica Group's total assets was as follows: Telefónica Spain 25.7% (26.0% as of December 31, 2023), VMO2 7.6% (7.5% as of December 31, 2023), Telefónica Germany 17.7% (17.8% as of December 31, 2023), Telefónica Brazil 22.2% (25.0% as of December 31, 2023) and Telefónica Hispam 14.1% (14.4% as of December 31, 2023). Part of the Group's assets are located in countries that do not have an investment grade credit rating (in order of importance, Brazil, Argentina (sold in February 2025), Ecuador and Venezuela). Likewise, Venezuela and Argentina are considered countries with hyperinflationary economies in 2024 and 2023. During 2024, the contribution of each segment to the Telefónica Group's revenues was as follows (does not include VMO2 that is recorded by the equity method and therefore does not contribute to the consolidated revenues): Telefónica Spain 31.0% (31.1% in 2023), Telefónica Germany 20.6% (21.2% in 2023), Telefónica Brazil 23.3% (23.7% in 2023) and Telefónica Hispam 21.9% (20.6% in 2023). The main risks by geography are detailed below: In Europe, there are several economic and political risks. Firstly, the evolution of armed conflicts poses a threat to growth and inflation prospects. Any worsening in the supply of gas, oil, food, or other goods due to disruptions in the supply chain would negatively impact their prices, with a consequent effect on the disposable income of both households and businesses. In the medium term, this could result in wage increases, a persistent rise in inflation, and tighter monetary policy. Any of the above could have a negative impact on the cost of financing for the private sector, including Telefónica, and could trigger episodes of financial stress. In addition, there is also a risk of financial fragmentation in the eurozone, meaning that interest rates may react differently in different countries within the eurozone, leading to differences in yields on bonds issued by more indebted countries (including Spain) and those issued by less indebted countries, making it challenging for the former to access credit at low rates. Lastly, Europe faces three significant long-term risks. First, Europe may fall behind in the global technological race in particular because of both its dependence on several critical raw materials, indispensable for key sectors, that must be imported from other regions, and its lag in technological innovation. Second, a burdensome regulatory environment in the European Union poses a significant threat to business, impeding growth and eroding competitiveness, with companies based in countries and regions where regulations are relatively less complex, extensive or restrictive. Third, demographic factors such as declining birth rates and population aging may have a negative impact on the region's labor force and long-term growth prospects. Regarding political risk, centrist political groups maintained a majority following the 2024 European Parliament elections but nationalist and populist parties made significant gains. It remains to be seen whether greater fragmentation in the parliament will hinder governance and the continuity of the ongoing agenda in fiscal and economic matters, climate and energy policy as well as other aspects of regional governance. - Spain: there are several local sources of risks. One of them stems from the risk that high commodity prices and/or the emergence of wage pressures could prolong the inflationary episode with a deeper impact on household income. Secondly, further delays in the disbursement of Next Generation European Funds (NGEU) could limit their final impact on GDP growth and employment. In addition, as one of the most open countries in the world from a commercial point of view, being among the top ten countries in respect of capital outflows and inflows globally, Spain could be negatively impacted by the rise of protectionism and trade restrictions. Lastly, the impact of higher-for-longer interest rates could be a source of financial stress due to high public indebtedness and lead to a possible correction in the real estate market. In the long term, the challenge is to increase the growth of potential GDP through improvements in productivity and investment and ensure the sustainability of public debt. - Germany: the risk of energy shortages has diminished recently due to Europe's response in terms of diversification of energy sources and the rapid construction of regasification plants in the country. However, it is possible that problems with energy supply may arise again. Alternative sources for gas imports could be limited, consumption could be higher due, for example, to an unusually cold winter, or competition for gas from other countries could increase. On the other hand, there is concern that higher-than-expected wage growth and/or higher input costs could lead to more persistent inflation diminishing competitiveness among the manufacturing sector. As for the medium to long term, there is a risk that prolonged or escalating geopolitical tensions could reduce international trade or increase competition to German-made products with a consequent impact on the country's potential growth, which is dependent on exports. Additionally, following the German federal election, it is relevant that a stable majority is formed capable of addressing the major challenges facing the country, especially in terms of investment needs. Finally, long-term challenges remain, such as the ageing of the population. - United Kingdom: more persistent inflation could weigh on consumption and further depress economic growth. In particular, there is a concern that currently dynamic wage growth could lead to a further increase in the prices of goods and services, preventing inflation rates from totally normalizing. On the other hand, although the UK economy has few direct trade links with Russia and Ukraine, it is vulnerable to developments in the global energy market as it is the second European economy with the largest share of gas in the energy mix. Finally, the formal exit of the United Kingdom from the European Union on December 31, 2020 (Brexit) has created new barriers to trade in goods and services, mobility and cross-border exchanges, which will continue to entail an economic adjustment in the medium term. In Latin America, the exchange rate risk is currently considered moderate by the Telefónica Group, except in Venezuela, but may increase in the future. The end of electoral events and rapid central bank actions to contain inflation may, at least partially, limit the impact of external risks (global trade tensions, abrupt movements in commodity prices, concerns about global growth, tightening U.S. monetary policy and financial imbalances in China) and internal risks (managing the monetary normalization and the possible fiscal deterioration) but there is no assurance that this will be the case. - Brazil: fiscal sustainability and increased economic intervention remain the main domestic risk. Despite recently announced measures to curb public spending, tax reforms aimed at simplifying the indirect tax system and promoting stronger and sustainable economic growth and an upward revision of Brazil's credit rating outlook by Moody's, volatility surrounding fiscal sustainability has increased. Moreover, inflation expectations have continued to deteriorate following the poor performance of the Brazilian real in a context of fiscal volatility, paving the way for further interest rate hikes and increasing the risks of a more pronounced economic slowdown. - Chile, Colombia, Peru and Ecuador: these countries are exposed not only to changes in the global economy, given their vulnerability and exposure to changes in commodity prices, but also to tightening of global financial conditions. On the domestic side, existing political instability and the possibility of further social unrest and the resurgence of populism could have a negative impact in both the short and medium term. In this regard, measures that result in excessive growth in public spending that jeopardize fiscal balance could have a negative impact on sovereign credit ratings, further deteriorating local financing conditions. If inflation is more persistent than expected, this could limit central banks' ability to respond to an abrupt drop in activity levels and could also increase the risk of financial instability. Political uncertainty has decreased in Chile, following the rejection of a proposed new Constitution in December 2023, but the maintenance of the former status quo could give rise to new social demands. A presidential election is due to take place in November 2025 (and a runoff election may follow in December 2025). In Colombia, the structural reforms promoted by Colombia's government are expected to be more market friendly due to the weakening of the government coalition. In Peru, the government succeeded in reducing the social protests against the installation of the current administration, although it remains politically weak. In Ecuador, presidential and legislative elections were held in February 2025. The election took place against a backdrop of unprecedented social and economic challenges, as well as armed conflicts between the government and several organized crime groups. A run-off presidential election will be held in April 2025. As discussed above, the countries where the Group operates are generally facing significant economic uncertainties and, in some cases, political uncertainties. The worsening of the economic and political environment in any of the countries where Telefónica operates may materially adversely affect the Group's business, financial condition, results of operations and/or cash flows.

Climate change, natural disasters and other factors beyond the Group's control, such as system failures, lack of electric supply, network failures, hardware or software failures or the theft of network elements, can damage Telefónica's infrastructure and affect the quality of, or cause interruption to, the provision of the services of the Telefónica Group. For example, in late October 2024, record-breaking flooding and related power outages in Valencia, Spain, resulting from a high-altitude, cut-off low-pressure storm system, caused severe damage to Telefónica's infrastructure. Fixed and mobile services were affected, and certain municipalities (104 at the worst moment) lost all communications. Repairs to the damaged infrastructure took up to 10 days. Telefónica's operations have also been affected by power outages in certain Latin American countries due to droughts and flooding. Further, changes in temperature and precipitation patterns associated with climate change may increase the energy consumption of telecommunications networks or cause service disruption due to extreme temperature waves, floods or extreme weather events. These changes may cause increases in the price of electricity due to, for example, reduction in hydraulic generation as a result of recurrent droughts. Further, as a result of global commitments to tackle climate change, new carbon dioxide taxes may be imposed and could affect, directly or indirectly, Telefónica Group, and may have a negative impact on the Group's operations and results. Telefónica analyses these risks in accordance with the guidelines set forth in the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), and with the recommendations of the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD). Network or service interruptions or quality loss or climate-related risks could cause customer dissatisfaction, a reduction in revenues and traffic, the realization of expensive repairs, the imposition of sanctions or other measures by regulatory bodies, and damage to the image and reputation of the Telefónica Group, or could otherwise have an adverse effect on the business, financial condition, results of operations and/or cash flows of the Group.

Interest rate risk arises primarily in connection with changes in interest rates affecting: (i) financial expenses on floating-rate debt (or short-term debt likely to be renewed); (ii) the value of long-term liabilities at fixed interest rates; and (iii) financial expenses and principal payments of inflation-linked financial instruments, considering interest rate risk as the impact of changes in inflation rates. In nominal terms, as of December 31, 2024, 83% of the Group's net financial debt had its interest rate set at fixed interest rates for periods of more than one year. The effective cost of debt related interest payments for the last 12 months excluding leases was 3.32% as of December 31, 2024 compared to 3.80% as of December 31, 2023. To illustrate the sensitivity of financial expenses to variations in short-term interest rates as of December 31, 2024: (i) a 100 basis points increase in interest rates in all currencies in which Telefónica had a financial position at that date would have led to an increase in financial expenses of 41 million euros, whereas (ii) a 100 basis points decrease in interest rates in all currencies (even if negative rates are reached) would have led to a reduction in financial expenses of 41 million euros. For the preparation of these calculations, a constant position equivalent to the position at that date is assumed of net financial debt. Exchange rate risk arises primarily from: (i) Telefónica's international presence, through its investments and businesses in countries that use currencies other than the euro (primarily in Latin America and the United Kingdom); (ii) debt denominated in currencies other than that of the country where the business is conducted or the home country of the company incurring such debt; and (iii) trade receivables or payables in a foreign currency to the currency of the company with which the transaction was registered. According to the Group's calculations, the impact on results, and specifically on net exchange differences, due to a 10% depreciation of Latin American currencies against the U.S. dollar and a 10% depreciation of the rest of the currencies to which the Group is most exposed against the euro would result in exchange gains of 42 million euros as of December 31, 2024 and a 10% appreciation of Latin American currencies against the U.S. dollar and a 10% appreciation of the rest of the currencies to which the Group is most exposed, would result in exchange losses of 42 million euros as of December 31, 2024. These calculations have been made assuming a constant currency position with an impact on profit or loss as of December 31, 2024 taking into account derivative instruments in place. In 2024, the evolution of exchange rates (without considering the effects of hyperinflationary countries) had a negative impact in the year-on-year growth of the Group's consolidated revenues and operating results before depreciation and amortization, subtracting 2.2 percentage points and 2.9 percentage points respectively (in 2023 it had a positive impact of 0.2 percentage points on year-on-year revenue growth and no impact at the operating results before depreciation and amortization level). Furthermore, translation differences in 2024 had a negative impact on the Group's equity of 959 million euros (positive impact of 37 million euros in 2023). The Telefónica Group uses a variety of strategies to manage this risk including, among others, the use of financial derivatives, which are also exposed to risk, including counterparty risk. The Group's risk management strategies may be ineffective, which could adversely affect the Group's business, financial condition, results of operations and/or cash flows. If the Group does not effectively manage its exposure to foreign currency exchange rates or interest rates, it may adversely affect its business, financial condition, results of operations and/or cash flows.

In accordance with current accounting standards, the Telefónica Group reviews on an annual basis, or more frequently when the circumstances require it, the need to introduce changes to the book value of its goodwill (which as of December 31, 2024, represented 16.4% of the Group's total assets), deferred tax assets (which as of December 31, 2024, represented 6.6% of the Group's total assets) or other assets, such as intangible assets (which represented 9.8% of the Group's total assets as of December 31, 2024), and property, plant and equipment (which represented 21.3% of the Group's total assets as of December 31, 2024). In the case of goodwill, the potential loss of value is determined by the analysis of the recoverable value of the cash-generating unit (or group of cash-generating units) to which the goodwill is allocated at the time it is originated, and such calculation requires significant assumptions and judgment. In 2024, Telefónica recorded impairment losses on intangible assets and property, plant and equipment in Argentina in an aggregate amount of 1,274 million euros and impairment losses on goodwill in an aggregate amount of 866 million euros with respect to the cash-generating units in Chile (397 million euros), Peru (226 million euros), Telefónica Tech UK & Ireland (192 million euros) and BE-terna Group (51 million euros). Likewise, impairment losses were recorded in Peru in 2024, including impairment losses on intangible assets (54 million euros) and on goodwill allocated to the fiber optics business (34 million euros), as well as a reversal of deferred tax assets for loss carryforwards (91 million euros). Additionally, following the analysis of the recoverability of the assets of Pangea (the wholesale fiber optic company in Peru) at the end of 2024, an impairment of property, plant and equipment amounting to 108 million euros has been recorded, as well as a reversal of deferred tax assets amounting to 13 million euros (see Notes 2, 6, 7, 8, 25 and 30 to the Consolidated Financial Statements). In 2023, impairment losses in the goodwill of Telefónica Ecuador were recognized for a total of 58 million euros. In addition, VMO2, Telefónica's 50:50 joint venture with Liberty Global in the United Kingdom, recorded in 2023 an impairment of goodwill amounting to 3,572 million euros, with a negative impact of 1,786 million euros on the share of (loss) income of investments accounted for by the equity method in the consolidated income statement of the Group in 2023. In addition, Telefónica may not be able to realize deferred tax assets on its statement of financial position to offset future taxable income. The recoverability of deferred tax assets depends on the Group's ability to generate taxable income over the period for which the deferred tax assets remain deductible. If Telefónica believes it is unable to utilize its deferred tax assets during the applicable period, it may be required to record an impairment against them resulting in a non-cash charge on the income statement. Further impairments of goodwill, deferred tax assets or other assets may occur in the future which may materially adversely affect the Group's business, financial condition, results of operations and/or cash flows.

The operation, expansion and improvement of the Telefónica Group's networks, the development and distribution of the Telefónica Group's services and products, the implementation of Telefónica's strategic plan and the development of new technologies, the renewal of licenses and the expansion of the Telefónica Group's business in countries where it operates, may require a substantial amount of financing. The Telefónica Group is a relevant and frequent issuer of debt in the capital markets. As of December 31, 2024, the Group's gross financial debt amounted to 38,782 million euros (37,061 million euros as of December 31, 2023), and the Group's net financial debt amounted to 27,161 million euros (27,349 million euros as of December 31, 2023). As of December 31, 2024, the average maturity of the debt was 11.3 years (11.6 years as of December 31, 2023), including undrawn committed credit facilities. A decrease in the liquidity of Telefónica, or a difficulty in refinancing maturing debt or raising new funds as debt or equity could force Telefónica to use resources allocated to investments or other commitments to pay its financial debt, which could have a negative effect on the Group's business, financial condition, results of operations and/or cash flows. Funding could be more difficult and costly to obtain in the event of a deterioration of conditions in the international or local financial markets due, for example, to monetary policies set by central banks, including increases in interest rates and/or decreases in the supply of credit, increasing global political and commercial uncertainty and oil price instability, or if there is an eventual deterioration in the reputation, solvency or operating performance of Telefónica. As of December 31, 2024, the Group's gross financial debt scheduled to mature in the following 12 months amounted to 5,590 million euros and the gross financial debt scheduled to mature in 2026 amounted 2,607 million euros. In accordance with its liquidity policy, Telefónica has covered its gross debt maturities for the next 12 months with cash and credit lines available as of December 31, 2024. As of December 31, 2024, the Telefónica Group had undrawn committed credit facilities arranged with banks for an amount of 11,017 million euros (10,634 million euros of which were due to expire in more than 12 months). Liquidity could be affected if market conditions make it difficult to renew undrawn credit lines. As of December 31, 2024, 3.5% of the aggregate undrawn amount under credit lines was scheduled to expire prior to December 31, 2025. In addition, given the interrelation between economic growth and financial stability, the materialization of any of the economic, political and exchange rate risks referred to above could adversely impact the availability and cost of Telefónica's financing and its liquidity strategy. This in turn could have a negative effect on the Group's business, financial condition, results of operations and/or cash flows. Finally, any downgrade in the Group's credit ratings may lead to an increase in the Group's borrowing costs and could also limit its ability to access credit markets.

The changing need for new skills in the workforce due to ongoing technological disruptions and the shortage of technology talent in the marketplace pose significant risks that may affect the Group's competitiveness. The successful execution of Telefónica's strategic plan and Telefónica's ability to compete effectively now and in the future depend to a large extent on the Company's key talent, as well as on a highly skilled workforce. Experienced profiles in the technology sector are in high demand and competition for talent is fierce worldwide. A lack of talent and the necessary skills in the Group can slow down innovation and adaptation to rapid changes in the sector, impacting business opportunities and the quality of services provided. While the Group takes various steps to manage these risks, including by fostering a culture of continuous learning, though ambitious employee training and reskilling programs, motivating and seeking to retain the Group's key talent and by redefining Telefónica's corporate culture to ensure the company's long-term growth and sustainability, there can be no assurance that such steps will be sufficient. If the Group fails to attract and retain technology talent, this could negatively affect the Group's business, financial condition, results of operations and/or cash flows.

The existence of critical suppliers in the supply chain, especially in areas such as network infrastructure, information systems or handsets with a high concentration in a small number of suppliers, poses risks that may affect Telefónica's operations. In the event that a participant in the supply chain engages in practices that do not meet acceptable standards or does not meet Telefónica's performance expectations (including delays in the completion of projects or deliveries, poor-quality execution, cost deviations, reduced output due to the suppliers own stock shortfalls, or inappropriate practices), this may harm Telefónica's reputation, or otherwise adversely affect its business, financial condition, results of operations and/or cash flows. Further, in certain countries, Telefónica may be exposed to labour contingencies in connection with the employees of such suppliers. As of December 31, 2024, the Group depended on three handset suppliers (one of them located in China) and seven network infrastructure suppliers (two of them located in China), which, together, accounted for 85% and 83%, respectively, of the aggregate value of contracts awarded in 2024 to handset suppliers and network infrastructure suppliers, respectively. One of the handset suppliers (not located in China) represented 46% of the aggregate value of contracts awarded in 2024 to handset suppliers. As of December 31, 2024, the Telefónica Group had approximately 100 information system ("IT") providers that together accounted for 80% of the total amount of IT purchase awards made in 2024, seven of them representing 30% of purchases in that area and time frame. If suppliers cannot supply their products to the Telefónica Group within the agreed deadlines or such products and services do not meet the Group's requirements, this could hinder the deployment and expansion plans of the network. This could in certain cases affect Telefónica's compliance with the terms and conditions of the licenses under which it operates, or otherwise adversely affect the business and operating results of the Telefónica Group. In addition, the possible adoption of new protectionist measures in certain parts of the world, including, the imposition of tariffs by major economies, the adoption of lockdown or other restrictive measures as a result any crisis or pandemic, as well as disruptions derived from geopolitical events such as the Russia-Ukraine war, armed conflict and political instability in the Middle East, among others, could disrupt global supply chains or may have an adverse impact on certain of Telefónica's suppliers and other players in the industry. Any of the above could increase prices for Telefónica and ultimately make our services more expensive for our customers, which could adversely affect the business and operating results of the Telefónica Group. National security concerns may also limit Telefónica's ability to utilize certain suppliers and require it to incur additional costs. Several EU countries have imposed restrictions on the use of telecom suppliers that are considered high-risk for 5G network infrastructure, such as certain Chinese suppliers. In Germany, Telefónica and other mobile network operators have entered into public law contracts with the Federal Ministry of the Interior and Community that obligate the mobile network operators to stop using all critical components made by Chinese suppliers in their 5G core networks by the end of 2026. The operators are also required to replace the critical functions of such suppliers' 5G network management systems in the access and transport networks of the 5G mobile network with technical solutions of other manufacturers by the end of 2029. This requires the cooperation of the suppliers, who must provide open interfaces for controlling the network elements. The semiconductor industry in particular is facing various challenges, as a result mainly of supply problems at a global level, which in turn is affecting multiple sectors (including technology) through delivery delays and price increases, which could affect the Telefónica Group or others who are relevant to its business, including its customers, suppliers and partners. Since 2021 a specific monitoring has been carried out and action plans have been developed by the Group with respect to the supply chain challenges resulting from the armed conflict in Ukraine as well as the potential discontinuation of use of some suppliers as a result of tensions between the United States and China. While Telefónica's supply chain has been generally resilient in recent years, despite various stresses affecting the semiconductor industry and raw materials, this may change in the future. The imposition of trade restrictions and any disruptions in the supply chain, such as those related to international transport, could result in higher costs and lower margins or affect the ability of the Telefónica Group to offer its products and services and could adversely affect the Group's business, financial condition, results of operations and/or cash flows. Further, in its sale of digital services, the Telefónica Group regularly integrates the digital services it offers with third-party technologies. Similar to more traditional supplier relationships, these integrations subject the Telefónica Group to the risks of performance failures by these third parties and the cost of continuously monitoring these strategic partners to ensure they maintain appropriate levels of accreditation and that the technologies they provide remain secure and up to date. Any such performance failure by the third parties or the technologies they provide could negatively impact the digital services offered by the Telefónica Group, and the Group's business, financial condition, results of operations and/or cash flows could be adversely affected as a result.

The Telefónica Group operates in highly competitive markets and it is possible that the Group may not be able to market its products and services effectively or respond successfully to the different commercial actions carried out by its competitors, causing it to not meet its growth and customer retention plans, thereby jeopardizing its future revenues and profitability. Additionally, the Telefónica Group could be affected by the regulatory actions of antitrust authorities. These authorities could prohibit certain actions, such as new acquisitions or specific practices, create obligations or impose heavy fines. Any such measures implemented by the antitrust authorities could result in economic and/or reputational loss for the Group, in addition to a loss of market share and/or harm to the future growth of some of its businesses. The entry of new competitors in core markets (leveraging asymmetric regulation and wholesale obligations for incumbents), market concentration via mergers by other players (e.g. MasOrange in Spain and Vodafone/Three in the United Kingdom) or changes in control at key competitors (e.g. Vodafone – Zegona in Spain), may re-configure markets. This could affect Telefónica's relative competitive position, impacting the potential evolution of revenues and market share, especially if new entrants pursue aggressive customer acquisition strategies. Additionally, new entrants could decide to accelerate network rollout (e.g. 5G) aiming at differentiating in the market, which could lead to increased competition in infrastructure. Today most telecom operators, such as Telefónica, include services beyond core connectivity services in their portfolio, albeit the weight of these services is relatively minor. Competitive dynamics for digital services are different, since these markets are dominated by specialized over-the-top (OTT) players and big tech, which leverage global platform economics and strong customer brands. If Telefónica is not able to successfully face these challenges, by ensuring a supply of cutting-edge technology products and services and maintaining its competitiveness against current or future competitors, the Group's business, financial condition, results of operations and/or cash flows could be adversely affected.