5.Scope of Consolidation

5.1Changes in the scope of consolidation

As of June 30, 2020, the scope of consolidation comprised Covestro AG and 47 (December 31, 2019: 47) consolidated companies.

Effective January 1, 2020, Asellion B.V., Amsterdam (Netherlands), was included in the consolidated financial statements for the first time as a result of growth in business activities. Previously, the company had been classified as an immaterial subsidiary. Asellion B.V. provides a digital platform for online direct sales where manufacturers, suppliers and service providers can do business in a flexible, secure and private environment.

Covestro (Tielt) NV, Tielt (Belgium), and Covestro S.p.A., Milan (Italy), were deconsolidated in the course of the sale of the European polycarbonate sheets business to Munich-based Serafin Group concluded on January 2, 2020.

Effective June 1, 2020, Covestro International Re, Inc., Colchester (United States), was included in the consolidated financial statements as a fully consolidated company. This is Covestro's own insurance company, which received a license from the state of Vermont to act as a reinsurer for the primary insurer and to provide coverage for certain insurance risks to which the Covestro Group is exposed.

5.2Acquisitions and divestitures

Acquisitions

No reportable acquisitions were made in the first half of 2020.

Divestitures

On January 2, 2020, Covestro concluded the sale of the assets and liabilities (disposal group) of the European polycarbonate sheets business, belonging to the Polycarbonates segment, to the Serafin Group, Munich (Germany). Polycarbonate sheets are extremely strong and are used primarily in the areas of industrial protection, construction systems and for advertising applications. The European polycarbonate sheets business comprises production sites in Belgium and Italy as well as central management and distribution functions in Europe. Within the scope of the sale, net liabilities totaling €2 million were transferred to the buyer, and net payments amounting to €3 million were made by Covestro to Serafin. The loss on the disposal of this business totaling €1 million was recognized in other operating result.