ESMA · ESMA_QA_984 Published Answer Updated

Incorporation by reference: language requirements (Updated 09/09/2026)

Regulation
Prospectus Regulation 2017/1129
Topic
Public offer
Submitted
2019-07-12
Answered
2026-09-09

Question

Is it possible to include or incorporate by reference only the translation of the audited financial statements and the audit report without a letter/statement of consent of the auditor to fulfil the requirement of Annex 1, item 6.1.1 Commission Delegated Regulation 2019/980 (“audited historical financial information”)? If yes, is it necessary to request a written confirmation for the accuracy of the translation and, if so, who has to issue this written confirmation? (Updated 09/09/2026)

Answer

Yes, it is it possible to include or incorporate by reference the translation of the audited financial statements and the audit report without a letter/statement of consent of the auditor. No written confirmation for the accuracy of the translation is needed. However, ESMA draws attention to the fact that, according to national legislation, it might be necessary to ask for the auditor’s consent to include or incorporate by reference the audit report in the prospectus. (Updated answer 09/09/2026)   12/07/2019 Subject Matter: Incorporation by reference: language requirements Question: Is it possible to include or incorporate by reference only the translation of the audited financial statements and the audit report without a letter/statement of consent of the auditor to fulfil the requirement of Annex 1, item 18.1. Commission Delegated Regulation 2019/980 (“audited historical financial information”)? If yes, is it necessary to request a written confirmation for the accuracy of the translation and, if so, who has to issue this written confirmation? Answer: [ESMA31-62-1258 [Prospectus Q&A 5.1c] Yes, it is it possible to include or incorporate by reference the translation of the audited financial statements and the audit report without a letter/statement of consent of the auditor. No written confirmation for the accuracy of the translation is needed. ESMA draws attention to the fact, that according to national legislation it might be necessary to ask for the auditor’s consent to include or incorporate by reference the audit report in the prospectus.

This Q&A is published by European Securities and Markets Authority and is non-binding. It does not constitute legal advice. Updated weekly from official ESA sources.

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