TIDMWCW
RNS Number : 5493I
Walker Crips Group plc
27 November 2018
27 November 2018
Walker Crips Group plc
("Walker Crips", the "Company" or the "Group"),
Results for the six months ended 30 September 2018
Walker Crips Group plc today announces its interim results for
the six months ended 30 September 2018.
Walker Crips Group plc is a long-established business delivering
investment management, stockbroking and wealth management services
to UK retail and intermediary clients. Its strategic ambition is to
embed technology in everything it does in its transition to
becoming a technology driven financial services group to complement
the constant drive to enhance our customers' experience, broaden
our product offerings, empower our staff and pursue business
efficiencies.
HIGHLIGHTS
-- Group revenues declined 1.9% to GBP15.1 million (2017: GBP15.4
million)
-- Reported pre-tax profit GBP213,000 (2017: GBP528,000)
-- Operating profit before tax and exceptional items GBP188,000
(2017: GBP390,000)
-- Assets under Management and Administration stand at GBP5.2
billion (31 March 2018: GBP5.0 billion)
-- Interim dividend maintained at 0.58 pence per share (2017
interim dividend : 0.58 pence per share)
David Gelber, Chairman, Walker Crips, says:
"Given the background of global trade friction, Brexit
uncertainty and the resultant market challenges, the first half of
the financial year has been a difficult one as a result of lower
transaction driven revenue. Notwithstanding this, we are encouraged
that certain long-term aims are being achieved, in particular the
sustained level of Assets under Management and Administration
which, after the impact of general falls in UK market indices,
remains marginally above our targeted milestone of GBP5bn.
"Our programme for staged implementation of the renewed strategy
during the current financial year is expected to have a positive
impact on the Group's second half year performance.
"Our balance sheet remains strong, our people are committed to
delivering excellent service and we are confident in our long term
strategy."
For further information, please contact:
Walker Crips Group plc Tel: +44 (0)20 3100 8000
Bridgette Campbell, Media Relations
Four Broadgate Tel: +44 (0)20 3697 4200
Roland Cross
walkercrips@fourbroadgate.com
Cantor Fitzgerald Europe Tel: +44 (0)20 7894 7000
Marc Milmo/Will Goode
Further information on Walker Crips Group is available on the
Company's website: www.wcgplc.co.uk
Chairman's Statement
Introduction
Against the backdrop of ongoing political and economic
uncertainty surrounding the terms for the United Kingdom's exit
from the EU and global trade friction, I report that nervousness of
markets has been affecting the volume-driven broking commission
revenue during the period. The resulting lower commission has been
disappointing although this decline was mitigated somewhat by fee
income having improved and an increase in interest margins on
managed deposits. However, with a decline in revenue, and costs in
the period broadly unchanged, this has resulted in a lower profit
before tax for the period of GBP213,000 (2017: GBP528,000(1) ).
Total Revenue in the period fell slightly by 1.9% to GBP15.1
million with lower broking income and reduced Structured Investment
activity offset by increased UK Base rate-linked managed deposit
margins and higher fee revenue. Assets under Management and
Administration at 30 September were GBP5.2 billion (31 March 2018:
GBP5.0 billion).
The Board has continued to concentrate on carefully managing the
cost base given upward pressures on operating expenses including
those incurred in complying with recent substantial regulatory
changes and our much-improved new office premises. Ongoing
successful collaboration with significant counterparty banks
delivering an innovative extension to their core product range, our
structured investment team is expected to achieve an increase in
revenue during the second half year.
Dividend
The Board has held the interim dividend the same as the prior
year at 0.58p per share to be paid on 21 December 2018 to those
shareholders on the register at the close of business on 7 December
2018. As stated previously the intention of the Board will be to
carefully consider the level of the final dividend when the annual
results are published in line with its existing dividend policy.
The Board will have in mind fair returns for shareholders as well
as the need to preserve regulatory capital headroom and investment
in initiatives to bring profitability up to a more desirable level.
The Board notes that should bargain volumes not recover in the
second half, then a reduced final dividend would be appropriate
until business activity and new strategic initiatives generate
improved returns.
Trading
Non-broking income as a proportion of total income increased to
69% (2017: 62%) reflecting the impact of declines in trading
volumes noted above. In addition, the emphasis of the Group
continues to be its efforts to help our client base to transfer to
discretionary or portfolio-managed mandates, with more stable
fee-based revenue. Our York-based wealth management arm was
marginally below budget in the period.
Payment of the final dividend in relation to the previous year
contributed to slightly lower Group net assets of GBP21.8 million
(31 March 2018: GBP22.0 million) with net current assets (including
net cash) of GBP8.0 million (31 March 2018: GBP8.1 million), a
solid financial position upon which to press on with the renewed
strategy which embraces culture and technology more inclusively
than ever before.
(1) Amounts have been restated and are explained in Note 12.
Operations
Investment Management
Given the background of global trade friction, Brexit
uncertainty and the resultant market challenges, our clients more
than ever understand the importance of our experienced and capable
investment advisers providing a sensible and reasoned approach as
they serve them with bespoke discretionary and advisory management
services.
Revenues from the Investment Management division decreased by
2.1% during the period to GBP13.9 million (2017: GBP14.2 million),
with an increase of 9.5% in management fee revenues from GBP8.4m to
GBP9.2m partly offsetting a significant decrease of 19% in
commission income from GBP5.8m to GBP4.7m. The fall in commission
income principally reflects lower trading volumes, but is also
partly explained by clients switching from commission-based to
fixed fee tariffs.
Wealth Management
The York based division has continued its investment in the
long-term with a move into new premises designed to improve
workflow, employee welfare and facilitate an expansion in numbers
of advisers and support staff in line with the strategy for
growth.
Revenues from the Wealth Management division increased
marginally to GBP1.22m (2017: GBP1.17m). Within this, recurring
revenue for financial planning products and services has increased
by 6% over the prior period. Assets under Management remained
constant notwithstanding the challenging market conditions.
Our pension management team has also seen an increase in
recurring revenue of 5% compared to the prior period and will look
to further growth with the introduction of a new platform which
will utilise leading edge technology to deliver a competitive
advantage through efficient processing and greater scalability.
Investment in staff and attraction of additional quality
individuals continue to be the highest priorities.
Technology
We have incorporated ENOC Technologies Limited as our new
technology arm to deliver our future 'Software as a Service'
business. We expect this initiative to be contributing positively
over the coming 18 to 24 months.
Directors, Account Executives and Staff
I would like to thank all my fellow directors, investment
managers and advisers and members of staff for their continued
support and hard work during a period in which much has been
achieved.
Outlook
We are encouraged that certain long-term aims are being
achieved, in particular the sustained level of Assets under
Management and Administration which, after the impact of general
falls in UK market indices, remains marginally above our targeted
milestone of GBP5bn. The ongoing expansion of our client base has
naturally slowed after our shift in growth strategy from
acquisition of teams and individuals with their own client bases
towards higher margin products and future technology-driven
services.
Despite the disappointing results for the first half year, our
programme for implementing change through the introduction of new
revenue streams and cost savings should provide the platform for an
improved second half performance.
We have a strong balance sheet, excellent staff and confidence
in our long term strategy.
David Gelber
Chairman
27 November 2018
Walker Crips Group plc
Walker Crips Group plc
Condensed Consolidated Income Statement
For the six months ended 30 September 2018
Restated(1) Audited
Unaudited Unaudited Year to
Six months to Six months to 31 March 2018
30 September 2018 30 September 2017
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Notes
Revenue 2 15,072 15,359(1) 30,456
Commission payable (4,955) (5,043)(1) (10,001)
Share of after tax profit of joint venture 9 2 7
Administrative expenses - other (9,938) (9,928)(1) (19,556)
Administrative expenses - exceptional items 6 - 109 (16)
---------------------------------------------- ------ -------------------- ------------------- ---------------
Total administrative expenses (9,938) (9,819) (19,572)
Operating profit 188 499 890
---------------------------------------------- ------ -------------------- ------------------- ---------------
Analysed as:
Operating profit before tax and exceptional
items 188 390(1) 906
Administrative expenses - exceptional items 6 - 109 (16)
---------------------------------------------- ------ -------------------- ------------------- ---------------
Operating profit 188 499(1) 890
Investment revenues 27 29 41
Finance costs (2) - (7)
---------------------------------------------- ------ -------------------- ------------------- ---------------
Profit before tax 213 528(1) 924
Taxation (41) (102)(1) (179)
---------------------------------------------- ------ -------------------- ------------------- ---------------
Profit for the period attributable to equity
holders of the Company 172 426(1) 745
---------------------------------------------- ------ -------------------- ------------------- ---------------
Earnings per share 3
Basic 0.41p 1.02p(1) 1.77p
Diluted 0.41p 1.01p(1) 1.75p
(1) Amounts have been restated and are
explained in note 12
Walker Crips Group plc
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
For the six months ended 30 September 2018
Restated(1)
Unaudited Unaudited Audited
Six months to Six months to Year to
30 September 2018 30 September 2017 31 March 2018
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Profit for the period 172 426(1) 745
--------------------------------------------------- -------------------- ------------------- ----------------
Total comprehensive income for the period
attributable to
equity holders of the company 172 426(1) 745
--------------------------------------------------- -------------------- ------------------- ----------------
(1) Amounts have been restated and are explained
in note 12
Walker Crips Group plc
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position
As at 30 September 2018
Restated(1) Unaudited
Unaudited 30 September 2017 Audited
30 September 2018 31 March 2018
Notes GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Non-current Assets
Goodwill 4,388 4,388 4,388
Other intangible assets 7,550 8,064 7,827
Property, plant and equipment 2,705 984 2,706
Investment in joint ventures 40 42 47
Investments - available for sale 7 - 231 203
Investments - fair value through profit
or loss 7 52 - -
------------------------------------------ ------ -------------------- ---------------------- ----------------
14,735 13,709 15,171
------------------------------------------ ------ -------------------- ---------------------- ----------------
Current Assets
Trade and other receivables 30,362 56,965(1) 37,427
Investments - fair value through profit
or loss 8 1,667 - -
Investments held for trading 8 - 1,265 1,851
Cash and cash equivalents 5,016 5,989 8,367
------------------------------------------ ------ -------------------- ---------------------- ----------------
37,045 64,219 47,645
------------------------------------------ ------ -------------------- ---------------------- ----------------
Total assets 51,780 77,928 62,816
------------------------------------------ ------ -------------------- ---------------------- ----------------
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables (28,371) (54,650)(1) (39,028)
Current tax liabilities (78) (475)(1) -
Deferred tax liabilities (237) (217) (341)
Bank overdrafts (115) (117) -
Shares to be issued - deferred
consideration - (230) (171)
------------------------------------------ ------ -------------------- ---------------------- ----------------
(28,801) (55,689)(1) (39,540)
------------------------------------------ ------ -------------------- ---------------------- ----------------
Net current assets 8,244 8,530(1) 8,105
------------------------------------------ ------ -------------------- ---------------------- ----------------
Long-term liabilities
Deferred cash consideration (137) (372) (197)
Dilapidation provision (543) - (543)
Landlord contribution to leasehold
improvements (492) - (523)
------------------------------------------ ------ -------------------- ---------------------- ----------------
(1,172) (372) (1,263)
------------------------------------------ ------ -------------------- ---------------------- ----------------
Net assets 21,807 21,867(1) 22,013
------------------------------------------ ------ -------------------- ---------------------- ----------------
Equity
Share capital 11 2,888 2,849 2,861
Share premium account 3,818 3,615 3,674
Own shares (312) (312) (312)
Retained earnings 10,745 11,047(1) 11,122
Other reserves 4,668 4,668 4,668
------------------------------------------ ------ -------------------- ---------------------- ----------------
Equity attributable to equity holders
of the company 21,807 21,867(1) 22,013
------------------------------------------ ------ -------------------- ---------------------- ----------------
(1) Amounts have been restated and are
explained further in Note 12
Walker Crips Group plc
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
For the six months ended 30 September 2018
Unaudited Restated(1) Unaudited Audited
30 September 2018 30 September 2017 31 March 2018
Notes GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Non-current Assets
Goodwill 4,388 4,388 4,388
Other intangible assets 7,550 8,064 7,827
Property, plant and equipment 2,705 984 2,706
Investment in joint ventures 40 42 47
Investments - available for sale 7 - 231 203
Investments - fair value through profit or
loss 7 52 - -
14,735 13,709 15,171
-------------------------------------------- ------ ------------------- ---------------------- ---------------
Current Assets
Trade and other receivables 30,362 56,965(1) 37,427
Investments - fair value through profit or
loss 8 1,667 - -
Investments held for trading 8 - 1,265 1,851
Cash and cash equivalents 5,016 5,989 8,367
-------------------------------------------- ------ ------------------- ---------------------- ---------------
37,045 64,219 47,645
-------------------------------------------- ------ ------------------- ---------------------- ---------------
Total assets 51,780 77,928 62,816
-------------------------------------------- ------ ------------------- ---------------------- ---------------
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables (28,371) (54,650)(1) (39,028)
Current tax liabilities (78) (475)(1) -
Deferred tax liabilities (237) (217) (341)
Bank overdrafts (115) (117) -
Shares to be issued - deferred
consideration - (230) (171)
-------------------------------------------- ------ ------------------- ---------------------- ---------------
(28,801) (55,689)(1) (39,540)
-------------------------------------------- ------ ------------------- ---------------------- ---------------
Net current assets 8,244 8,530(1) 8,105
-------------------------------------------- ------ ------------------- ---------------------- ---------------
Long-term liabilities
Deferred cash consideration (137) (372) (197)
Dilapidation provision (543) - (543)
Landlord contribution to leasehold
improvements (492) - (523)
-------------------------------------------- ------ ------------------- ---------------------- ---------------
(1,172) (372) (1,263)
-------------------------------------------- ------ ------------------- ---------------------- ---------------
Net assets 21,807 21,867(1) 22,013
-------------------------------------------- ------ ------------------- ---------------------- ---------------
Equity
Share capital 11 2,888 2,849 2,861
Share premium account 3,818 3,615 3,674
Own shares (312) (312) (312)
Retained earnings 10,745 11,047(1) 11,122
Other reserves 4,668 4,668 4,668
-------------------------------------------- ------ ------------------- ---------------------- ---------------
Equity attributable to equity holders
of the company 21,807 21,867(1) 22,013
-------------------------------------------- ------ ------------------- ---------------------- ---------------
(1) Amounts have been restated and are
explained further in Note 12
Walker Crips Group plc
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
For the six months ended 30 September 2018
Own
Called Share shares Capital Retained Total
up share premium held Redemption Other earnings Equity
capital
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Restated(1) Equity as at
31 March 2017 2,826 3,502 (312) 111 4,557 11,163(1) 21,847
----------------------------- ------------- ---------- --------- ------------- -------- ----------- ---------
Total comprehensive income
for period - - - - - 426(1) 426
----------------------------- ------------- ---------- --------- ------------- -------- ----------- ---------
Contributions by and
distributions
to owners
Dividends paid - - - - - (542) (542)
Issue of shares on
acquisition
of intangibles and as
deferred
consideration 23 113 - - - - 136
Total contributions by and
distributions to owners 23 113 - - - (542) (406)
----------------------------- ------------- ---------- --------- ------------- -------- ----------- ---------
Restated(1) Equity as at
30 September 2017 2,849 3,615 (312) 111 4,557 11,047 21,867
Total comprehensive income
for period - - - - - 319 319
----------------------------- ------------- ---------- --------- ------------- -------- ----------- ---------
Contributions by and
distributions
to owners
Dividends paid - - - - - (244) (244)
Issue of shares on
acquisition
of intangibles and as
deferred
consideration 12 59 - - - - 71
Total contributions by and
distributions to owners 12 59 - - - (244) (173)
----------------------------- ------------- ---------- --------- ------------- -------- ----------- ---------
Equity as at 31 March 2018 2,861 3,674 (312) 111 4,557 11,122 22,013
----------------------------- ------------- ---------- --------- ------------- -------- ----------- ---------
Total comprehensive income
for period - - - - - 172 172
----------------------------- ------------- ---------- --------- ------------- -------- ----------- ---------
Contributions by and
distributions
to owners
Dividends paid - - - - - (549) (549)
Issue of shares on
acquisition
of intangibles and as
deferred
consideration 27 144 - - - - 171
Total contributions by and
distributions to owners 27 144 - - - (549) (378)
----------------------------- ------------- ---------- --------- ------------- -------- ----------- ---------
Equity as at 30 September
2018 2,888 3,818 (312) 111 4,557 10,745 21,807
----------------------------- ------------- ---------- --------- ------------- -------- ----------- ---------
(1) Amounts have been restated
and are explained further in
Note 12
Walker Crips Group plc
Notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements
For the six months ended 30 September 2018
1. Basis of preparation and significant accounting policies
Basis of preparation
The Group's consolidated financial statements are prepared in
accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as
adopted by the EU (IFRS). These condensed financial statements are
presented in accordance with IAS 34 Interim Financial
Reporting.
The condensed consolidated financial statements have been
prepared on the basis of the accounting policies and methods of
computation set out in the Group's consolidated financial
statements for the year ended 31 March 2018 except for those that
relate to new standards and interpretations effective for the first
time for periods beginning on or after 1 April 2018.
The condensed consolidated financial statements should be read
in conjunction with the Group's audited financial statements for
the year ended 31 March 2018. The interim financial information is
unaudited and does not constitute statutory accounts as defined in
section 434 of the Companies Act 2006. The Group's financial
statements for the year ended 31 March 2018 have been reported on
by the auditors and delivered to the Registrar of Companies. The
report of the auditors was unqualified and did not draw attention
to any matters by way of emphasis. They also did not contain a
statement under section 498 (2) or (3) of the Companies Act 2006.
The interim financial information has neither been audited nor
reviewed pursuant to guidance issued by the Audit Procedures
Board.
Significant accounting policies
Going Concern
As both the net asset base and cash position remain healthy, the
directors are satisfied that the Group has sufficient resources to
continue in operation for the foreseeable future, a period of not
less than 12 months from the date of this report. Accordingly, they
also conclude in accordance with guidance from the Financial
Reporting Council, that the use of the going concern basis for the
preparation of the financial statements continues to be
appropriate.
Interests in joint ventures
The Group's share of the assets, liabilities, income and
expenses of jointly controlled entities are accounted for in the
consolidated financial statements under the equity method.
Income from the sale or use of the Group's share of the output
of jointly controlled assets, and its share of the joint venture
expenses, are recognised when it is probable that the economic
benefits associated with the transactions will flow to/from the
Group and their amount can be measured accurately.
Exceptional items
To assist in understanding its underlying performance, the Group
identifies certain items of pre-tax income and expenditure and
discloses them separately in the consolidated income statement.
Such items would include:
1. profits or losses on disposal, closure or impairment of assets
or businesses;
2. corporate transaction and restructuring costs;
3. changes in the fair value of contingent consideration; and
4. non-recurring items considered individually for classification
as exceptional by virtue of their nature or size.
The separate disclosure of these items allows a clearer
understanding of the Group's trading performance on a consistent
and comparable basis, together with an understanding of the effect
of non-recurring or large individual transactions upon the overall
profitability of the Group.
Goodwill
Goodwill arising on consolidation represents the excess of the
cost of acquisition over the Group's interest in the fair value of
the identifiable assets and liabilities of a subsidiary or jointly
controlled entity at the date of acquisition. Goodwill is initially
recognised as an asset at cost and reviewed for impairment at least
annually. Any impairment is recognised immediately in the income
statement and is not subsequently reversed in future periods.
Revenue recognition
IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers has replaced IAS
18 Revenue. The Group revenue recognition was in line with IFRS 15
guidance effective 1 April 2018 hence there is no significant
impact on Group revenue recognition following the adoption of IFRS
15.
Revenue is measured at a fair value of the consideration or
receivable and represents gross commissions, interest receivable
and fees in the course of ordinary investment business, net of
discounts, VAT and sales related taxes.
-- Gross commissions on stockbroking activities are recognised
on those transactions whose bargain date falls within
the financial year.
-- Interest is recognised as it accrues in respect of
the financial management year.
-- Fees earned from managing various types of client portfolios,
in the Investment Management division, are accrued
evenly over the period to which they relate.
-- Fees in respect of financial services activities in
the Wealth Management division are accrued evenly over
the period to which they relate.
-- Fees earned from structured investments are recognised
on the date the underlying security of the structured
investment is traded.
-- Dividend income is recognised when received.
-- Gains or losses arising on changes in fair value of
securities held for trading are recognised in profit
and loss. Net profits or losses on dealings in the
parent company's own shares are taken to profit and
loss and included in Revenue.
Operating expenses
Operating expenses and other charges are provided for in full up
to the statement of financial position date on an accruals
basis.
Intangible assets
At each period end date, the Group reviews the carrying amounts
of its intangible assets to determine whether there is any
indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If
any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is
estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss
(if any). Where the asset does not generate cash flows that are
independent from other assets, the Group estimates the recoverable
amount of the cash-generating unit to which the asset belongs.
Financial instruments
Initial recognition and measurement
Financial assets and financial liabilities are recognised when
the Group becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the
instrument.
At initial recognition, the Group measures a financial asset or
financial liability at its fair value plus or minus transaction
costs. Transaction costs of financial assets and financial
liabilities carried at fair value through profit or loss (FVPL) are
expensed in the statement of comprehensive income. Immediately
after initial recognition, an expected credit loss allowance
("ECL") is recognised for financial assets measured at amortised
cost, which results in an accounting loss being recognised in
profit or loss when an asset is newly originated.
The Group does not use hedge accounting.
a) Financial assets
Classification and subsequent measurement
The Group classifies its financial assets in the following
measurement categories:
- Fair value through profit or loss (FVPL); or
- Amortised cost.
Financial assets are classified as current or non-current
depending on the contractual timing for recovery of the asset.
i) Debt instruments
Classification and subsequent measurement of debt instruments
depend on:
- The Group's business model for managing the asset; and
- The cash flow characteristics of the asset.
Business model: The business model reflects how the Group
manages the assets in order to generate cash flows. That is,
whether the Group's objective is solely to collect the contractual
cash flows from the assets, to collect both the contractual cash
flows and cash flows arising from the sale of assets, or solely or
mainly to collect cash flows arising from the sale of assets.
Factors considered by the Group include past experience on how the
contractual cash flows for these assets were collected, how the
assets' performance is evaluated, and how risks are assessed and
managed.
Cash flow characteristics of the asset: Where the business model
is to hold assets to collect contractual cash flows, the Group
assesses whether the financial instruments' contractual cash flows
represent solely payments of principal and interest ("the SPPI
test"). In making this assessment, the Group considers whether the
contractual cash flows are consistent with a basic lending
instrument.
Based on these factors, the Group classifies its debt
instruments into one of two measurement categories:
Amortised cost: Assets that are held for collection of
contractual cash flows where those cash flows represent solely
payments of principal and interest ("SPPI"), and that are not
designated at FVPL, are measured at amortised cost. Amortised cost
is the amount at which the financial asset is measured at initial
recognition minus the principal repayments, plus or minus the
cumulative amortisation using the effective interest rate method of
any difference between that initial amount and the maturity amount,
adjusted by any ECL recognised. The effective interest rate is the
rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash payments or
receipts through the expected life of the financial asset to the
gross carrying amount. Interest income from these financial assets
is included within investment revenues using the effective interest
rate method.
FVPL: Assets that do not meet the criteria for amortised cost or
Fair value through other comprehensive income (FVOCI) are measured
at fair value through profit or loss. Interest income is included
within investment revenues using the effective interest rate
method.
Reclassification
The Group reclassifies debt instruments when and only when its
business model for managing those assets changes. The
reclassification takes place from the start of the first reporting
period following the change.
Impairment
The Group assesses on a forward-looking basis the ECL associated
with its debt instruments held at amortised cost. The Group
recognises a loss allowance for such losses at each reporting date.
On initial recognition, the Group recognises a 12 month ECL. At the
reporting date, if there has been a significant increase in credit
risk, the loss allowance is revised to the lifetime expected credit
loss.
The measurement of ECL reflects:
- An unbiased and probability weighted amount that is determined
by evaluating a range of possible outcomes;
- The time value of money; and
- Reasonable and supportable information that is available
without undue cost or effort at the reporting date about past
events, current conditions and forecasts of future economic
conditions.
ii) Equity instruments
Investments are recognised and derecognised on a trade date
basis where a purchase or sale of an investment is under a contract
whose terms require delivery of the instrument within the timeframe
established by the market concerned, and are initially measured at
fair value.
The Group subsequently measures all equity investments at fair
value through profit and loss. Changes in the fair value of
financial assets at FVPL are recognised in revenue within the
Consolidated income statement.
iii) Trade and other receivables
Trade and other receivables are recognised initially at fair
value and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the
effective interest method, less loss allowance.
For trade receivables, the Group applies the simplified approach
permitted by IFRS 9, which requires lifetime ECL to be recognised
from initial recognition of the receivables.
iv) Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents includes cash on hand, deposits held
at call with financial institutions, other short-term, highly
liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less
that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash and which are
subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value, and bank
overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within current liabilities in
the statement of financial position.
Derecognition
Financial assets are derecognised when the rights to receive
cash flows from the financial assets have expired or have been
transferred and the Group has transferred substantially all the
risks and rewards of ownership.
b) Financial liabilities
Classification and subsequent measurement
Financial liabilities are classified and subsequently measured
at amortised cost.
Financial liabilities are derecognised when they are
extinguished.
Trade and other payables
Trade payables represent liabilities for goods and services
provided to the Group prior to the end of financial year which are
unpaid. The amounts are unsecured and are usually paid within 30
days of recognition. Trade and other payables are presented as
current liabilities unless payment is not due within 12 months
after the reporting period. They are recognised initially at their
fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the
effective interest method.
Deferred tax
Deferred tax is the tax expected to be payable or recoverable on
differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities
in the financial statements and the corresponding tax bases used in
the computation of taxable profits, and is accounted for using the
balance sheet liability method. Deferred tax liabilities are
generally recognised for all taxable temporary differences and
deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that is probable
that taxable profits will be available against which deductible
temporary differences can be utilised.
Principal risks and uncertainties
Under the Financial Conduct Authority's Disclosure and
Transparency Rules, the Directors are required to identify those
material risks to which the company is exposed and take appropriate
steps to mitigate those risks. The principal risks and
uncertainties faced by the Group are discussed in detail in the
Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2018.
Related party transactions
No transactions took place in the period that would materially
or significantly affect the financial position or performance of
the Group.
Adoption of new standards and interpretations affecting the
reported results or the financial position
Transition to IFRS 9 and IFRS 15
In the current period, no standards or interpretations, new or
revised, have been adopted that have had a significant impact on
the amounts reported in the financial statements.
This is the first set of the Group's financial statements where
IFRS 9 and IFRS 15 have been applied. These new standards were
adopted from 1 April 2018 and have not had a significant impact on
the amounts reported in these financial statements.
IFRS 9 has replaced IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition
and Measurement, and has had a significant effect on the Group in
the following areas:
- Equity investments classified as available for sale financial
assets under IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition
and Measurement have been classified as being at Fair Value
through profit or loss (FVPL) under IFRS 9. On the date
of initial application no adjustment was made to the carrying
amount of the investments which are considered to not be
materially different from their fair value. No revaluation
reserve had been accumulated to transfer to retained earnings.
- Debt investments classified as available for sale financial
assets under IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition
and Measurement have been classified as being at Amortised
cost under IFRS 9. On the date of initial application no
adjustment was made to the carrying amount of the investments
which are considered to not be materially different from
their fair value. No revaluation reserve had been accumulated
to transfer to retained earnings.
As permitted under IFRS 9, the Group has chosen not to restate
comparatives on adoption and, therefore, the above changes have
been processed at the date of initial application (i.e. 1 April
2018), and presented in the statement of changes in equity for the
6 months to 30 September 2018.
Future new standards and interpretations
IFRS 16 'Leases'
IFRS 16 is effective for periods commencing on or after 1
January 2019. The standard was endorsed by the European Union
during 2017. The Group has not adopted this standard early.
IFRS 16 eliminates the classification of leases as either
operating leases or financial leases. The Group will be required to
recognise all leases with a term of more than 12 months as a
right-of-use lease asset on its balance sheet; the Group will also
recognise a financial liability representing its obligation to make
future lease payments.
Transition
Definition of a lease
On a transition to IFRS 16, the Group can choose whether to
- apply the new definition of a lease to all its contracts; or
- apply a practical expedient approach and retain previous assessments
of contracts which contain a lease obligation.
The Group intends to apply the practical expedient and therefore
will not be re-assessing those contracts that are not deemed to
contain a lease prior to the date of adoption in accordance with
IAS 17 and IFRS 4.
Retrospective approach
As a lessee, the Group can either apply the standard using
a:
- retrospective approach; or
- modified retrospective approach with optional practical expedients.
The Group intends to apply the modified retrospective approach
in relation to its existing lease contracts. This will result in
the comparatives to the financial statements in which IFRS 16 is
first applied not being adjusted for the effects of IFRS 16 but,
instead, the differences arising being taken through equity.
Potential impact
The Group's total assets and total liabilities will be increased
by the recognition of lease assets and liabilities. The lease
assets will be depreciated over the shorter of the expected life of
the asset and the lease term. The lease liability will be reduced
by lease payments, offset by the unwinding of the liability over
the lease term.
On the Group's statement of comprehensive income, the profile of
lease costs will be front-loaded, at least individually, as the
interest charge is higher in the early years of a lease term as the
discount rate unwinds. The total cost of the lease over the lease
term is expected to be unchanged.
In addition to the above impacts, recognition of lease assets
will increase the Group's regulatory capital requirement.
The most significant impact is in respect of the Group's London,
York and Romford offices. The expected quantitative annual effect
of the changes in accounting treatment under the standard over the
lease periods is to increase depreciation cost by up to GBP689,000,
reduce lease expenses by up to GBP965,000, increase interest cost
by up to GBP460,000 and reduce net assets by up to GBP417,000.
2. Segmental analysis
Investment Wealth Total
Management Management
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Revenue from
Contracts with
Customers
6m to 30
September 2018 13,854 1,218 15,072
--------------------- --------------------- --------------------- --------------------
6m to 30
September 2017 14,190(1) 1,169 15,359
--------------------- --------------------- --------------------- --------------------
Year to 31 March
2018 28,139 2,317 30,456
--------------------- --------------------- --------------------- --------------------
Operating Profit Unallocated Costs Operating Profit
(GBP'000)
6m to 30
September 2018 743 103 (658) 188
--------------------- --------------------- --------------------- --------------------
6m to 30
September 2017 1,142(1) 119 (762) 499
--------------------- --------------------- --------------------- --------------------
Year to 31 March
2018 2,098 199 (1,407) 890
--------------------- --------------------- --------------------- --------------------
(1) Amounts have been restated and are explained further in
Note 12
3. Earnings per share
The calculation of basic earnings per share for continuing
operations is based on the post-tax profit for the period of
GBP172,000 (2017: GBP426,000) and on 42,443,034 (2017: 41,901,666)
ordinary shares of 6 2/3p, being the weighted average number of
ordinary shares in issue during the period.
In the prior period, the calculation of diluted earnings per
share was based on 42,262,768 ordinary shares, being the weighted
average number of ordinary shares in issue during the period
adjusted for dilutive potential ordinary shares, potentially
issuable to the sellers of Barker Poland Asset Management (BPAM) in
order to satisfy the Group's final obligation in connection with
the payment of year three deferred consideration. There is no
dilution applicable to the current period.
4. Dividends
The interim dividend of 0.58 pence per share (2017: 0.58 pence)
is payable on 21 December 2018 to shareholders on the register at
the close of business on 7 December 2018. The interim dividend has
not been included as a liability in this interim report.
5. Total Income (GBP'000)
Six months ended Six months ended
30 September 2018 30 September 2017 Year ended
31 March 2018
Revenue from Contracts with
Customers 15,072 15,359(1) 30,456
Investment revenues 27 29 41
15,099 15,388 30,497
---------------------- ---------------------- -------------------
(1) Amounts have been restated and
are explained further in Note 12
5. Total Income (GBP'000) (continued)
The Group's income can also be categorised as follows for the
purpose of measuring a Key Performance Indicator, non-broking
income to total income.
Six months % Six months % Year %
ended ended ended
30 September 30 September 31 March
2018 2017 2018
Income (GBP'000)
Broking 4,653 31 5,809 38 10,953 36
Non-Broking 10,446 69 9,579 62(1) 19,544 64
15,099 100 15,388 100 30,497 100
-------------- ---- -------------- ------ ---------- ----
(1) Amounts have been restated
and are explained further in
Note 12
6. Administrative expenses - exceptional items (GBP'000)
As a result of their materiality, the Directors in prior periods
decided to disclose certain amounts separately in order to present
results which are not distorted by significant non-recurring
events.
Six months Six months Year ended
ended ended 30 31 March
30 September September 2018
2018 2017
Property relocation
expenses - 67 322
Non-recurring rebate - (66) (63)
Change of VAT partial
exemption special method - (110) (243)
- (109) 16
----------------- ----------- -----------
There were no material non-recurring events recorded in the
current period to 30 September 2018.
During the prior period to 30 September 2017, the Group incurred
material costs of GBP117,000 under its existing lease related to
the planned relocation of the head office to new premises in
December 2017 and which have been partially offset by an unusually
high service charge rebate of GBP50,000. An additional one-off
refund of GBP66,000 was received for incorrect custody charges
incurred in prior years as well as a significant annual credit
relating to the Group's agreement with HMRC to a revised input VAT
recovery method (partial exemption special method).
During the year ended 31 March 2018 the Group incurred material
costs of GBP388,000 under its existing leases related to the
relocation of the head office and the York office to new premises
in December 2017 and April 2018 offset by an unusually high service
charge credit of GBP66,000 on the old head office. An additional
one off refund of GBP63,000 was received for incorrect custody
charges incurred in prior years as well as significant annual
credits of GBP243,000 relating to the Group's agreement with HMRC
to a revised input VAT recovery method (partial exemption special
method).
7. Non-current investments - fair value through profit or
loss
Investments Total
Investments at fair
available value
for sale through
profit
or loss
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
At 31 March 2017 68 - 68
Additions in the period 163 - 163
Disposals in the period - - -
Recognised in comprehensive income - - -
------------------------------------ -------------- ------------ --------
At 30 September 2017 231 - 231
Additions in the period - - -
Disposals in the period (28) - (28)
Recognised in comprehensive income - - -
------------------------------------ -------------- ------------ --------
At 31 March 2018 203 - 203
Reclassified on date of initial
application of IFRS 9 (53) 53 -
Investment transferred to Trade
and other receivables (150) - (150)
Additions in the period - - -
Disposals in the period - (1) (1)
At 30 September 2018 - 52 52
------------------------------------ -------------- ------------ --------
Investments at fair value through
The Group's unregulated collective investment scheme (UCIS)
investments are held in relation to a number of customer
complaints. The fair value is based upon the market price as at 30
September 2018.
The Group's life policy investments are held in relation to a
number of customer complaints. The fair value is based upon the
life company's forecast terminal value.
Investment transferred to Trade and other receivables
Following a review of the capital framework of short-term
lending vehicle Topaz STL, the Group's debt investment, previously
held as investment available for sale, upon application of IFRS9
has been reclassified as amortised costs within trade and other
receivables in the period.
8. Current investments
As at As at As at
30 September 30 September 31 March
2018 2017 2018
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
-------------------------- --------------- -------------- ----------
Trading investments
Investments - fair value 1,667 - -
through profit or loss
Fair value - 1,265 1,851
--------------------------- -------------- -------------- ----------
Financial assets represent investments in equity securities and
collectives that present the Group with opportunity for return
through dividend income, interest and trading gains. The fair
values of these securities are based on quoted market prices.
9. Classification and measurement of financial assets and
financial liabilities
The basis of classification for financial assets under IFRS 9 is
different from that under IAS 39. Financial assets are classified
into one of three categories: amortised cost, fair value through
profit or loss (FVTPL) or fair value through other comprehensive
income (FVOCI).
The table below explains the previous measurement categories
under IAS 39 and the new measurement categories under IFRS 9 for
each class of the Group's investments as at 30 September 2018:
Investments and Financial assets held at fair value
Non-current Assets
Classification under Classification
Investments IAS 39 GBP'000 under IFRS 9 GBP'000
Fair value
through profit or
UCIS investments Available for sale 41 loss 41
Fair value
Life Policy through profit or
investments Available for sale 11 loss 11
52 52
-------------- --------------
Current Assets
Classification under Classification
Investments IAS 39 GBP'000 under IFRS 9 GBP'000
Fair value
Fair value through through profit or
Held for trading profit or loss 1,667 loss 1,667
-------------- --------------
Other financial Classification under Classification
assets IAS 39 GBP'000 under IFRS 9 GBP'000
Trade receivables Loans and receivables 19,849 Amortised cost 19,849
Other receivables Loans and receivables 10,513 Amortised cost 10,513
Cash and cash
equivalents Loans and receivables 5,016 Amortised cost 5,016
35,378 35,378
-------------- --------------
The basis of classification for financial liabilities under IFRS
9 remains unchanged from under IAS 39.
10. Fair values
Trading investments represent investments in equity securities
and bonds that present the Group with opportunity for return
through dividend income, interest and trading gains. The fair
values of these securities are based on quoted market prices.
The following provides an analysis of financial instruments that
are measured subsequent to initial recognition at fair value,
grouped into Levels 1 to 3 based on the degree to which the fair
value is observable:
- Level 1 fair value measurements are those derived from quoted
prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets
or liabilities. The trading investments fall within this category;
- Level 2 fair value measurements are those derived from inputs
other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are
observable for the asset or liability, either directly (i.e.
as prices) or indirectly (i.e. derived from prices). The Group
does not hold financial instruments in this category; and
- Level 3 fair value measurements are those derived from valuation
techniques that include inputs for the asset or liability
that are not based on observable market data (unobservable
inputs). The Group's Investments held in non-current assets
fall within this category.
Further IFRS 13 disclosures have not been presented here as the
balance of Level 3 assets represents 0.582% (2017: 0.296%) of total
assets.
The following tables analyse within the fair value hierarchy the
Group's Investments measured at fair value.
10. Fair values (continued)
At 30 September 2017 Level Level Level Total
1 2 3
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Financial assets held
at fair value
through profit and
loss 1,265 _ _ 1,265
Financial assets held
at fair value
through comprehensive
income _ _ 231 231
------------------------ -------- -------- -------- ---------------
At 31 March 2018 Level Level Level Total
1 2 3
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
------------------------ -------- -------- -------- ---------------
Financial assets held
at fair
value through profit
and loss 1,851 _ 203 2,054
------------------------ -------- -------- -------- ---------------
At 30 September 2018 Level Level Level Total
1 2 3
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
------------------------ -------- -------- -------- ---------------
Financial assets held
at fair
value through profit
and loss 1,667 _ 52 1,719
------------------------ -------- -------- -------- ---------------
There have been no transfers of financial instruments between
levels during the period.
The fair value of UCIS and Life Policy investments have fair
values determined by reference to prices supplied from the
administrator and provider respectively.
In all cases the unrealised gains or losses in the investments
are recognised within revenue on the income statement.
11. Issue of share capital
During the period to 30 September 2018, 409,598 new Ordinary
Shares were issued and allotted to the sellers of Barker Poland
Asset Management LLP (BPAM) in order to satisfy the Group's
obligation in connection with the payment of year three deferred
consideration. The BPAM business has met the targets required to
trigger a payment by the Group of the full amount of the third and
final payment.
12. Prior Year Adjustment
An adjustment has been made to retained earnings brought forward
at 1 April 2017, as shown in the Consolidated statement of changes
in equity, to correct the recording of portfolio management fees
previously accounted for in advance instead of arrears of
GBP232,000 at 31 March 2017 together with the tax impact of
GBP44,000. This has had the effect of increasing trade and other
receivables by GBP464,000, increasing trade and other payables by
GBP232,000, increasing tax liabilities by GBP44,000 and increasing
retained earnings by GBP188,000 as at 31 March 2017. Subsequent
movements in the period to 30 September 2017 increased receivables
by GBP2,000, increased liabilities by GBP1,000, and increased
earnings by GBP1,000, as reflected in the adjusted Comprehensive
income of GBP426,000 for period to 30 September 2017.
An adjustment has been made to retained earnings brought forward
at 1 April 2017, as shown in the Consolidated statement of changes
in equity, to correct the previous under accrual of employers
National Insurance Contributions (NIC) on a performance related
bonus scheme of GBP235,000 at 31 March 2017 together with the tax
impact of GBP45,000. This has had the effect of increasing trade
and other payables by GBP235,000, reducing tax liabilities by
GBP45,000 and reducing retained earnings by GBP190,000 as at 31
March 2017. Subsequent movements in the period to 30 September 2017
increased the liability by GBP6,000, reduced tax liabilities by
GBP1,000 to and reduced earnings by GBP5,000, as reflected in the
adjusted Comprehensive income of GBP426,000 for the period to 30
September 2017.
A reclassification adjustment has been made on the consolidated
income statement to commission payable and administrative expenses
for the period to 30 September 2017 to reflect employed investment
adviser profit sharing costs as an administrative expense,
previously disclosed as shared commission payable. This had the
effect of reducing commission payable by GBP595,000 and increasing
administrative expenses by GBP595,000, being an increase of
GBP548,000 in staff costs and GBP47,000 in other expenses. There is
no impact on retained earnings or assets in the current or prior
period as a result of this change in accounting treatment.
13. Cash generated from operations
Restated(1) Unaudited Audited
30 September 2017 31 March
Unaudited 2018
30 September 2018
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Operating profit for the year 188 499 890
Adjustments for:
Amortisation of intangibles 274 256 553
Loss on sale of tangible fixed asset 2 - 7
Net change in fair value of financial instruments at
fair value through profit or loss (22) (52) (55)
Share of joint venture income (9) (2) (7)
Depreciation 301 246 517
Decrease/(increase) in debtors 7,152 (4,322) 15,284
(Decrease)/increase in creditors (10,137) 3,451 (11,533)
Net cash (used) / generated by operations (2,251) 76 5,656
=================== ======================== ==========
(1) Amounts have been restated and are explained
further in Note 12
14. Contingent liability
During the year to 31 March 2017, two Group companies, Walker
Crips Group plc (WCG) and Walker Crips Stockbrokers Limited (WCSB),
received draft proceedings in respect of a potential claim, from a
former listed corporate client of Keith Bayley Rogers & Co
(KBR), a former subsidiary of the Group. The corporate client
alleges that its former Executive Chairman and his associates
misappropriated assets of GBP5.6m from it between 2010 and 2014 and
used these assets to purchase and sell shares in the client through
the brokerage of WCG, WCSB and KBR. The client asserts that WCG and
WCSB acted dishonestly to assist the Chairman to perpetrate the
alleged fraud and was party to an unlawful means conspiracy to
cause it loss. It is also claimed that WCG, WCSB are vicariously
liable for any wrongdoing on the part of KBR. The potential quantum
of the claim is in excess of GBP1m.
The claims are strenuously denied by the Directors and the
Directors consider the claim to be without any merit, as supported
by a legal opinion obtained by WCG and WCSB, which advises that the
claims are 'weak'. A detailed response denying liability for the
claims was submitted to the client's representatives in December
2016. The Directors have heard nothing further from the former KBR
client since then.
The Group is engaged in assisting with a proposed transaction to
launch a public issuance for which adviser fees totalling
GBP225,000 become payable if the transaction does not proceed.
Directors' Responsibility Statement
The Directors confirm that to the best of their knowledge:
(a) The condensed set of financial statements contained within
the half yearly financial report has been prepared in accordance
with IAS 34 'Interim Financial Reporting' as adopted by the EU;
(b) The half yearly report from the Chairman (constituting the
interim management report) includes a fair review of the
information required by DTR 4.2.7R; and
(c) The half yearly report from the Chairman includes a fair
review of the information required by DTR 4.2.8R as far as
applicable.
On Behalf of the Board
Sean Lam
Chief Executive Officer
27 November 2018
This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the
London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct
Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United
Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution
of this information may apply. For further information, please
contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.
END
IR PGGPAGUPRGBQ
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November 27, 2018 02:01 ET (07:01 GMT)
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