TIDMHSD
RNS Number : 5859F
Hansard Global plc
22 February 2018
22 February 2018
Hansard Global plc
Results for the six months ended 31 December 2017
Hansard Global plc ("Hansard" or "the Group"), the specialist
long-term savings provider, issues its results for the six months
ended 31 December 2017. All figures refer to the six months ended
31 December 2017 ("H1 2018"), except where indicated.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
-- New business levels for the Group were GBP77.1m for H1 2018
on a Present Value of New Business Premiums ("PVNBP") basis, up 3%
from H1 2017;
-- IFRS profits were GBP3.5m for the period, down from GBP4.4m
in H1 2017. Profits were reduced by lower income in Hansard Europe,
increased litigation defence costs and foreign exchange
fluctuations;
-- EEV profit after tax was GBP3.9m (H1 2017: GBP8.5m) as
significant foreign exchange gains of H1 2017 were not
repeated;
-- New business margin was marginally positive at 0.1% for H1
2018 (H1 2017: 1.3%), affected by increased acquisition expenses
and business mix;
-- Assets under administration have increased since 30 June 2017
by GBP37m or 3.5% to GBP1.09 billion;
-- The Board has declared an interim dividend of 1.8p per share
(H1 2017: 3.6p), in line with previous guidance.
STRATEGIC HIGHLIGHTS
-- The Board remains confident of sales growth in 2018 and
beyond with a number of new key distribution agreements well
advanced;
-- The office of strategic management is making good progress in
the establishment of new licenses;
-- The strategic alliance in the UAE has started to provide a
material contribution to new business.
FINANCIAL DATA
H1 2018 H1 2017
------------------------------ --------- ---------
New business sales - PVNBP GBP77.1m GBP74.9m
IFRS profit after tax GBP3.5m GBP4.4m
EEV profit after tax GBP3.9m GBP8.5m
IFRS basic earnings per share 2.5p 3.2p
Interim dividend - to be 1.8p 3.6p
paid on 10 April 2018
------------------------------ --------- ---------
As at 31 December 30 June
2017 2017
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Assets under Administration GBP1,087m GBP1,050m
European Embedded Value GBP192.2m GBP195.5m
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
NEXT TRADING UPDATE
The next trading update in respect of the year ending 30 June
2018 is expected to be published on 10 May 2018.
OUTLOOK
We continue to pursue opportunities for growth in line with our
strategic objectives. In particular we are working on a number of
new distribution opportunities in the Middle East and Far East to
restore and grow premium levels in those regions.
Gordon Marr, Group Chief Executive Officer, commented:
"Hansard has continued to grow new business levels in the first
half of this financial year and we are very pleased with the strong
increases in sales achieved in our Latin America and Rest of the
World regions. We remain optimistic that current business
development initiatives will deliver increasing levels of new
business and profits over time."
For further information:
Hansard Global plc +44 (0) 1624 688 000
Gordon Marr, Group Chief
Executive Officer
Tim Davies, Chief Financial
Officer
Email: investor-relations@hansard.com
Camarco +44 (0) 203 757 4980
Ben Woodford, Partner
Kimberley Taylor, Associate
Partner
Rebecca Noonan, Senior
Consultant
Notes to editors:
-- Hansard Global plc is the holding company of the Hansard
Group of companies. The Company was listed on the London Stock
Exchange in December 2006. The Group is a specialist long-term
savings provider, based in the Isle of Man.
-- The Group offers a range of flexible and tax-efficient
investment products within a life assurance policy wrapper,
designed to appeal to affluent, international investors.
-- The Group utilises a controlled cost distribution model via a
network of independent financial advisors and the retail operations
of certain financial institutions who provide access to their
clients in more than 170 countries. The Group's distribution model
is supported by Hansard OnLine, a multi-language internet platform,
and is scaleable.
-- The principal geographic markets in which the Group currently
services contract holders and financial advisors are the Middle
East & Africa, the Far East and Latin America, in the case of
Hansard International Limited, and Western Europe in the case of
Hansard Europe dac, the Group's two life assurance companies.
Hansard Europe dac closed to new business with effect from 30 June
2013.
-- The Group's objective is to grow by attracting new business
and positioning itself to adapt rapidly to market trends and
conditions. The scaleability and flexibility of the Group's
operations allow it to enter or develop new geographic markets and
exploit growth opportunities within existing markets without the
need for significant further investment.
-- Following the closure of Hansard Europe dac to new business
with effect from 30 June 2013, the Group continues to report new
business performance of Hansard International Limited alone within
this document. Reporting of Assets under Administration
incorporates cash flows relating to insurance policies issued by
both Hansard International Limited and Hansard Europe dac.
Forward-looking statements:
This announcement may contain certain forward-looking statements
with respect to certain of Hansard Global plc's plans and its
current goals and expectations relating to future financial
condition, performance and results. By their nature forward-looking
statements involve risk and uncertainties because they relate to
future events and circumstances which are beyond Hansard Global
plc's control. As a result, Hansard Global plc's actual future
condition, performance and results may differ materially from the
plans, goals and expectations set out in Hansard Global plc's
forward-looking statements. Hansard Global plc does not undertake
to update forward-looking statements contained in this announcement
or any other forward-looking statement it may make. No statement in
this announcement is intended to be a profit forecast or be relied
upon as a guide for future performance.
This announcement contains inside information which is disclosed
in accordance with the Market Abuse Regime.
Legal Entity Identifier: 213800ZJ9F2EA3Q24K05
CHAIRMAN'S STATEMENT
New business
New business for the first six months of our 2018 financial year
("H1 2018") was GBP77m on a Present Value of New Business Premiums
("PVNBP") basis. This was an increase of 3% over the prior period
("H1 2017") and reflects continued progress in our goal to build
sales levels in a sustainable and diversified way.
We are very pleased with the strong increases in sales achieved
in our Latin America and Rest of World regions. We are seeing a
number of brokerages in the Middle East altering their business
models and in some cases exiting the market as new regulation and
competitive pressures come to bear. We intend to replace and grow
business in this region over time through our local relationship
with Union Insurance PSC.
Financial performance
The Group's profit after tax under International Financial
Reporting Standards ("IFRS") of GBP3.5m for the period is GBP0.9m
lower than the comparative period profit of GBP4.4m. As reported in
previous reports, this reflects the on-going reduction in income
from Hansard Europe which closed to new business in 2013, adverse
foreign exchange movements and some additional expense items.
European Embedded Value ("EEV") profit after tax was GBP3.9m for
the period (H1 2017: GBP8.5m). The main driver of the change from
the prior period was a reversal of strong foreign exchange gains
experienced in H1 2017.
Our new business contribution and margin remained marginally
positive for the period but we are clear that the business
continues to require additional scale to drive these levels forward
to more attractive levels. The Group is continuing to actively
pursue a number of additional distribution initiatives which are
expected to come to fruition later in 2018.
Dividends
We have flagged for the past 12 months that we intended to
reduce the Group dividend in the 2018 financial year by 50% in
order to better match the cash and profits being generated by the
Group and to be in a position to capitalise on future business
development opportunities. Accordingly, the Board has resolved to
pay an interim dividend of 1.8p per share (H1 2017: 3.6p per
share).
Capitalisation and solvency
The Group continues to be well capitalised to meet the
requirements of regulators, contract holders, intermediaries and
other stakeholders. Aggregate minimum solvency margins are covered
by GBP34.3m (31 December 2016: GBP38.0m) of excess assets. We have
maintained our prudent investment policy for shareholder assets,
which minimises market risk and has provided a stable and resilient
solvency position over recent years.
Outlook
As mentioned above, we expect to continue to grow the business
through a number of planned distribution initiatives in our
operating regions. We are clear that additional scale is necessary
for the business and the Board is dedicating its attention to
ensuring the delivery of this.
The Group is also allocating significant resource to ensure we
are suitably placed for on-going regulatory change, particularly
the Isle of Man's regulatory roadmap which introduces a Solvency II
type capital regime from 30 June 2018 and significant consumer
protection and disclosure requirements from 1 January 2019.
Philip Gregory
Chairman
21 February 2018
INTERIM MANAGEMENT REPORT
REPORT OF THE GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
GORDON MARR
Strategy implementation and new business distribution
The Group's focus is to provide regular and single premium
savings products to expatriate and internationally minded clients
around the world. We continue to pursue our strategy of growing our
business organically through Independent Financial Advisor ("IFA")
relationships and the pursuit of targeted opportunities, either
through new licences or via institutional partnerships. Our
strategic development team has been tasked with refreshing the
Group's strategic objectives and identifying additional
opportunities for growth and operational efficiency.
Results for the period
IFRS profit for the period was GBP3.5m after tax (H1 2017:
GBP4.4m). The decline is primarily as a result of the on-going
run-off of Hansard Europe which closed to new business in 2013,
adverse foreign exchange movements and some additional expense
items.
Increased new business flows have a limited immediate impact on
current earnings reported under IFRS, as initial fees and
acquisition costs from the contracts sold are mostly deferred and
amortised over the life of the contract. The benefit of increasing
sales to fee income levels will be felt in future financial
periods, noting however that our newer products have a longer
earning period than our older products.
New business levels have continued to produce a positive new
business contribution and margin of GBP0.1m and 0.1%, respectively
(H1 2017: GBP1.3m and 1.3%, respectively). The decrease from H1
2017 is primarily due to increased initial expenses incurred and a
higher proportion of single premium business sold which carries a
lower margin.
The EEV profit of GBP3.9m in the period (H1 2017: GBP8.5m) is
largely driven by investment gains. The change from H1 2017 is
predominantly due to large foreign exchange gains experienced in H1
2017 that reversed in H1 2018.
The EEV at 31 December 2017 was GBP192.2m (after the deduction
of GBP7.2m in dividends paid during the period) as compared to
GBP197.1m at 31 December 2016 and GBP195.5m at 30 June 2017.
A summary of the results for H1 2018 are as follows:
H1 2018 H1 2017
------------------------------- -------- ---------
IFRS profit after tax GBP3.5m GBP4.4m
EEV profit after tax GBP3.9m GBP8.5m
IFRS basic earnings per share 2.5p 3.2p
Interim dividend - to be
paid on 10 April 2018 1.8p 3.6p
------------------------------- -------- ---------
31 December 30 June
As at 2017 2017
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Assets under Administration GBP1,087m GBP1,050m
European Embedded Value GBP192.2m GBP195.5m
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Details of the results for the period, under both IFRS and EEV
reporting, are contained in the Business and Financial Review.
Hansard Europe dac ("Hansard Europe")
Hansard Europe was closed to new business in 2013 and the
Group's objective is to run the business off in an efficient and
well managed manner. We continue to meet the requirements of the
company's policyholders, regulators and stakeholders while
utilising operational efficiencies through the use of Hansard
OnLine. The servicing of policy contracts and other administrative
operations are performed at the Group's head office on the Isle of
Man. Regulatory control and management of outsourced activities are
exercised from the company's offices in Dublin. The company remains
strongly capitalised.
We continue to deal with complaints in circumstances where a
policyholder believes that the performance of an asset linked to a
particular contract is not satisfactory. We do not give investment
advice and are not party to the selection of the asset and
therefore we feel that we are justified in robustly defending each
complaint. Sometimes these complaints progress to threatened or
actual litigation with the resulting increase in cost and resource
to the Group. In many cases the litigation relates to decisions
taken by individuals during, or as a result of, the global
financial crisis in 2007/2008.
We reported in our annual report for 2017 that Hansard Europe
was facing litigation based on writs totalling EUR16.9m (GBP14.8m)
as a result of these and related complaints. We will continue to
defend ourselves from all claims, considering early settlement
(without admission of liability) only where there is a clear
economic benefit.
As at 31 December 2017, writs had decreased marginally to a
total of EUR16.4m (GBP14.6m). This is primarily due to fluctuations
in the underlying value of the funds subject to the litigation,
although we have seen some new smaller cases arising in Italy and
Germany. Since 31 December 2017, we have had successful rulings in
two Belgian appeal court cases with writs totalling just under
EUR1m.
Capitalisation and solvency
A key financial objective is to ensure that the Group's solvency
is managed safely through the economic cycle to meet the
requirements of regulators, contract holders, intermediaries and
shareholders. The Group remains well capitalised. The required
minimum solvency margins are covered by excess assets of GBP34.3m,
which are typically held in a wide range of deposit institutions
and in highly-rated money market liquidity funds.
Hansard Europe's capital surplus is not available for
distribution until there is better clarity over the expected
outcome of the litigation against the company. It is therefore
included within the total of Required Capital of GBP27.7m in the
analysis of the Group's EEV balance sheet at 31 December 2017.
Allowing for this, the EEV balance sheet reflects that the Group
has a free surplus of GBP16.3m available for investment and
distribution, down from GBP23.2m at 31 December 2016, following
dividend payments and increased investment in new business.
Hansard International will be subject to the Isle of Man's new
risk based capital regime from 30 June 2018 and beyond. We do not
expect this to result in any material change to our surplus capital
or dividend policy.
Hansard OnLine
We continue to develop additional functionality for Hansard
OnLine to allow contract holders and intermediaries to transact
with us more efficiently and to meet ever increasing digital
expectations.
As is reported in the Business and Financial Review, over 95% of
policy investment transactions are processed electronically by
intermediaries using Hansard OnLine and over 90% of all new
business applications were submitted via the platform during the
period.
Risk management
As the pace, scale, and complexity of regulatory change continue
to increase, it is vital for us to understand and manage the impact
of these changes both on our clients and on ourselves as a
business. We continue to devote significant resources in this area
to meet these challenges.
Dividend
The Board has resolved to pay an interim dividend of 1.8p per
share (2017: 3.6p). This dividend will be paid on 10 April
2018.
Our people
The Group has a dedicated dynamic workforce. We have a
commitment to service and quality at the highest level in relation
to servicing contract holders and intermediaries, the development
of successful products and Hansard OnLine. We also have a strong
commitment to performance improvement in all areas of the business.
I thank all our employees for their continued contribution to
Hansard and the successes achieved in this period.
Outlook
We remain optimistic about the opportunities for our business.
We have received substantial positive feedback around our new
proposition in the UAE and are very focussed on delivering higher
sales throughout the remainder of this financial year and beyond.
We also continue to pursue a number of planned distribution
initiatives in our operating regions.
The Isle of Man Financial Services Authority's "Roadmap For
Updating the Isle of Man's Regulatory Framework for Insurance
Business" will implement substantial regulatory change over the
course of the next 12 months. These include new conduct of business
and policyholder disclosure requirements, a more sophisticated risk
based capital and solvency regime, a group supervision framework
and enhanced governance and enterprise risk management
requirements. We have been working hard to make sure we are
appropriately positioned to meet these challenges.
Gordon Marr
Chief Executive Officer
21 February 2018
BUSINESS AND FINANCIAL REVIEW
1. BUSINESS MODEL
Hansard is a specialist long-term savings provider that has been
providing innovative financial solutions for international clients
since 1987. We focus on helping financial advisors and institutions
to provide their clients (individual and corporate investors) with
savings and investment products in secure life assurance wrappers
to meet long-term savings and investment objectives. We administer
assets in excess of GBP1 billion for over 500 financial advisor
businesses with approximately 40,000 client accounts around the
world.
The Company's head office is in Douglas, Isle of Man, and its
principal subsidiaries operate from the Isle of Man and the
Republic of Ireland. Hansard International Limited is regulated by
the Financial Services Authority of the Isle of Man Government and
has a branch in Malaysia, regulated by the Labuan Financial
Services Authority, to support business flows from Asian growth
economies. Hansard Europe DAC ("Hansard Europe") is regulated by
the Central Bank of Ireland. Hansard Europe ceased accepting new
business with effect from 30 June 2013.
Our products are designed to appeal to affluent international
investors, institutions and wealth-management groups. They are
distributed exclusively through independent financial advisors
("IFAs") and the retail operations of financial institutions.
Our network of Account Executives provides local language-based
support services to financial advisors in key territories around
the world, supported by our multi-language online platform, Hansard
OnLine.
2. STRATEGY
Our aim is to be the preferred choice of distributors when
recommending international savings and investment products to their
clients.
We have developed attractive products and services and will
continue to improve them. We recognise that clients are at the
heart of our business and, consequently, we must work hard to build
long-term positive relationships with them.
Our vision encompasses every part of our business. Beneath this,
we have identified a range of strategic objectives to meet this
target and continue to work towards them. Through careful execution
of our plans in each of the following areas we intend to add
increased scale to the business, on a diversified basis, at
acceptable levels of risk and profitability.
-- More long-term relationships with distributors;
-- Better value for clients;
-- A more visible profile in the market;
-- Excellent client service;
-- A motivated and engaged workforce; and
-- Market-leading on-line systems.
3. HANSARD ONLINE
Hansard OnLine is the Group's online platform, providing
essential functionality and information for our contract holders
and intermediaries around the world. Available 24/7, in multiple
languages, Hansard OnLine provides users with the tools needed to
better manage their objectives.
Almost all investment transactions are processed electronically
by intermediaries, on behalf of their clients, using Hansard OnLine
and over 90% of all new business applications are submitted via the
platform.
Meeting contractholders' requirements
We appreciate that our contract holders' savings and investments
are important to them, and that they want to monitor the
performance of their Hansard contracts when and where it suits
them. Through a secure OnLine Account contract holders can view the
key documentation and investment information relating to their
policy with content presented in 13 different languages.
Contract holders have access to our Unit Fund Centre which
provides all of the information that they need in order to make
informed investment decisions. The Unit Fund Centre can be used as
a resource to research potential new unit funds, and also as a tool
to monitor the performance of existing choices.
Certain contract holders have the functionality to perform their
own policy investment transactions, via their OnLine Accounts, to
better meet their objectives.
Over 15,000 OnLine Accounts are used regularly. It remains a key
objective of the Group to increase OnLine Account take up and we
continue to look at new ways to keep contract holders informed of
new online developments in order to achieve this.
Supporting intermediaries
Hansard OnLine allows intermediaries to perform key tasks
seamlessly online. Pre-sale illustrations, new business proposals
and policy investment transactions are handled electronically and a
range of analytical tools such as the Personal Investment Review
are available through the Unit Fund Centre.
Placing this functionality online means the intermediaries can
access it when they need it, and allows for an improved
user-centric experience compared to using paper forms. Data
validation happens in real-time to ensure there are no delays to
the investment of client funds.
Hansard OnLine Lite provides prospective IFAs with easy access
to a subset of the online system. Its purpose is to showcase our
online proposition to prospective and new IFAs and to allow easy
access to non-sensitive documents and functionality. Users can
access our online document library, the Unit Fund Centre, company
news and submit new business online.
Reducing operational risk
The straight-through processing of contract holder instructions
(whether received directly or through their appointed agents)
reduces the Group's operational risk exposures, as does the ability
of the Group to communicate electronically with contract holders
and intermediaries, irrespective of geographical boundaries.
Cyber security
As cyber crime continues to increase and target commercial and
public enterprises alike, Hansard has continued to invest in its
cyber security. This includes continuous upgrades to our firewall
protection, encryption of data, tokenisation of sensitive data and
annual external review and testing.
4. NEW BUSINESS
Strategy Implementation
The Group's proposition is to develop and enhance relationships
with contract holders and intermediaries through the use of our
people, products and technology in a way that meets shared
objectives.
The Group continues to invest in its distribution resources,
Hansard OnLine, and other infrastructure to support its strategic
plans. We continue to pursue our longer term plans to establish
additional locally-licenced distribution in a small number of
target markets.
Initiatives over the past number of years to update our product
range and salesforce are now delivering increased new business
flows across a more diversified distribution base. New
relationships with a number of IFA networks in target markets are
maturing and delivering increased levels of new business.
The results of activities in each region in H1 2018 are reported
in the table below.
New business performance for the six months ended 31 December
2017
We have experienced a 3% increase in new business for H1 2018 as
compared to the previous period, building on the significant growth
experienced in the 2017 financial year.
New business flows for Hansard International for H1 2018 are
summarised as follows. Comparisons against the corresponding
periods are on an actual currency basis.
Six months Year ended
ended
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
------------------------------- ------ ------ -----------
Present value of New Business
Premiums 77.0 74.7 148.3
Annualised Premium Equivalent 12.1 11.7 23.2
------------------------------- ------ ------ -----------
The following tables show the breakdown of new business flows
calculated on the basis of PVNBP.
Year
Six months ended
ended
31 December 30
June
2017 2016 2017
By type of contract GBPm GBPm GBPm
--------------------- ------- ------ -------
Regular premium 37.9 42.6 75.3
Single premium 39.1 32.1 73.0
--------------------- ------- ------ -------
77.0 74.7 148.3
--------------------- ------- ------ -------
Year
Six months ended ended
31 December 30
June
2017 2016 2017
By geographical area GBPm GBPm GBPm
------------------------ ---------- --------- -------
Rest of World 31.0 26.0 53.4
Middle East and Africa 16.3 24.0 40.6
Far East 15.7 15.8 35.4
Latin America 14.0 8.9 18.9
------------------------ ---------- --------- -------
Total 77.0 74.7 148.3
------------------------ ---------- --------- -------
We continue to receive new business from a diverse range of
financial advisors around the world. The majority of new business
premiums are denominated in US dollars (approximately 66%), with
approximately one quarter denominated in sterling, and the
remainder in euro or other currencies.
5. IFRS RESULTS FOR THE SIX MONTHSED 31 DECEMBER 2017
The Group administers, and earns fees from, a portfolio of
unit-linked investment contracts distributed to contract holders
around the world.
The design of the Group's products means that new business flows
will contribute to income streams over many years. Increasing new
business levels therefore takes time for the profit to be realised
under IFRS. The Group also continues to invest strategically for
the future, particularly in relation to new markets and new
licensing opportunities.
Results under IFRS
Fee and commission income received underpins the expenditure
necessary to support the Group's longer-term objectives and
ultimately to pay dividends over the long term.
The Group continues to invest for future growth in the business
through targeted expenditure, particularly in our sales team and in
connection with licence and similar business development
initiatives. Projects to enhance Hansard OnLine; streamline
administrative processes and reduce operational risk have continued
in the period, while professional fees continue to be incurred in
order to protect the Group's position in relation to actual and
potential litigation against Hansard Europe.
Consolidated profit after taxation for the period is GBP3.5m (H1
2017: GBP4.4m). The key drivers of the reduced profit was the
on-going reduction in income from Hansard Europe which closed to
new business in 2013, adverse foreign exchange movements and some
additional expense items.
The following is a summary of key items to allow readers to
better understand the results of the period.
Abridged income STATEMENT
The IFRS condensed consolidated statement of comprehensive
income which is presented within these half-year results reflects
the financial results of the Group's activities during the period
under IFRS. This statement however, as a result of its method of
presentation, incorporates a number of features that might affect a
clearer understanding of the results of the Group's underlying
transactions. This relates principally to:
-- Investment gains attributable to contract holder assets were
GBP58.0m (H1 2017: GBP87.4m). These assets are selected by the
contract holder or an authorised intermediary and the contract
holder bears the investment risk.
-- Third party fund management fees collected and paid onwards
by the Group to third parties having a relationship with the
underlying contract. In H1 2018 these were GBP2.5m (H1 2017:
GBP2.3m). These are reflected on a gross basis in both income and
expenses under IFRS.
An abridged consolidated income statement is presented below,
excluding the items of income and expenditure indicated above.
Year
Six months ended
ended
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
------------------------------ ------- ------- --------
Fees and commissions 23.2 24.4 48.3
Investment and other income 0.5 0.9 1.5
------------------------------ ------- ------- --------
23.7 25.3 49.8
Origination costs (9.1) (9.5) (19.3)
Administrative and other
expenses attributable to
the
Group, before exceptional
items (11.1) (10.7) (21.7)
------------------------------ ------- ------- --------
Operating profit for the
period before significant
one-off items 3.5 5.1 8.8
One-off expense adjustments - (0.7) (1.1)
Profit for the period before
taxation 3.5 4.4 7.7
Taxation - - -
------------------------------ ------- ------- --------
Profit for the period after
taxation 3.5 4.4 7.7
------------------------------ ------- ------- --------
Fees and commissions
Fees and commissions attributable to Group operations for the
half-year are GBP23.2m, a decrease of approximately 5% compared
with GBP24.4m in H1 2017. A summary of fees and commissions
attributable to Group activities is set out below:
Year
Six months ended
ended
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
------------------------ ------- ------ --------
Contract fee income 16.2 18.0 34.6
Fund management fees 4.5 4.2 9.1
Commissions receivable 2.5 2.2 4.6
------------------------ ------- ------ --------
23.2 24.4 48.3
------------------------ ------- ------ --------
Included in income is GBP9.0m (H1 2017: GBP9.9m) representing
the amounts prepaid in previous years and amortised to the income
statement, as can be seen in section 7 in the reconciliation of
deferred income.
The reduction in contract fee income for the period, when
compared with H1 2017, is as a result of a reduction in servicing
income received by Hansard Europe (which closed to new business in
2013), reduced levels of income amortised by Hansard International
due to the nature and mix of the products and reduced levels of
contract holder activity margins.
Net fund management fees, together with commissions receivable,
totalling GBP7.0m (H1 2017: GBP6.4m), are related to the value of
contract holder Assets under Administration ("AuA") but also have
elements amortised from previous periods.
Investment and other income
Six months Year ended
ended
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
--------------------------- ------- ----- -----------
Bank interest and other
income receivable 0.6 0.6 1.5
Foreign exchange (losses)
/ gains on revaluation
of net operating assets (0.1) 0.3 -
--------------------------- ------- ----- -----------
0.5 0.9 1.5
--------------------------- ------- ----- -----------
The Group's own liquid assets are held predominantly in sterling
and invested in highly rated money market funds and bank
deposits.
The foreign exchange gains of the previous period (whereby
sterling depreciated significantly against the US dollar and euro)
were not repeated in H1 2018. Overall this had a reduction to
profit of GBP0.4m compared to H1 2017.
Further information about the Group's foreign currency exposures
is disclosed in note 4.1 to these condensed consolidated financial
statements.
Origination costs
Under IFRS, new business commissions paid, together with the
directly attributable incremental costs incurred on the issue of a
contract, are deferred and amortised over the life of that contract
to match the longer-term income streams expected to accrue from it.
Typical terms range between 6 and 16 years, depending on the nature
of the product. Other elements of the Group's new business costs,
which reflect investment in distribution resources in line with our
strategy, are expenses as incurred.
This accounting policy reflects that the Group will continue to
earn income over the long-term from contracts issued in a given
financial year. The impact on current year fee income of contracts
issued in H1 2018 is minimal.
Origination costs in the period were:
Year
Six months ended
ended
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
------------------------------ ------- ------ --------
Origination costs - deferred
to match
future income streams 9.3 8.3 16.8
Origination costs - expensed
as incurred 1.5 1.5 3.2
------------------------------ ------- ------ --------
Investment in new business
in period 10.8 9.8 20.0
Net amortisation of deferred
origination
costs (1.7) (0.3) (0.7)
------------------------------ ------- ------ --------
9.1 9.5 19.3
------------------------------ ------- ------ --------
Reflecting the long-term nature of the Group's income streams,
amounts totalling GBP7.6m (H1 2017: GBP7.9m) have been expensed to
match contract fee income of GBP9.0m (H1 2017: GBP9.9m) earned this
year from contracts issued in previous financial years. This
reflects the profitability of the existing book.
Summarised origination costs for the period were:
Year
Six months ended
ended
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
----------------------------- ------- ------ --------
Amortisation of deferred
origination costs 7.6 7.9 16.1
Other origination costs
incurred during the period 1.5 1.6 3.2
----------------------------- ------- ------ --------
9.1 9.5 19.3
----------------------------- ------- ------ --------
Administrative and other expenses
The Group continues to invest for future growth in the business
through planned expenditure in front facing systems and targeted
licence applications. Projects to streamline administrative
processes and reduce operational risk have also continued in the
period.
A summary of administrative and other expenses attributable to
the Group is set out below:
Year
Six months ended
ended
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
------------------------------- ------- ------ --------
Salaries and other employment
costs 5.0 4.8 9.3
Other administrative expenses 3.3 3.4 6.5
Growth investment spend 0.9 1.0 2.4
Professional fees, including
audit 1.9 1.5 3.5
------------------------------- ------- ------ --------
11.1 10.7 21.7
Provision for doubtful
debts - 0.7 1.1
------------------------------- ------- ------ --------
11.1 11.4 22.8
------------------------------- ------- ------ --------
Salaries and other employment costs have increased by GBP0.2m or
4% to GBP5.0m over the comparative period, reflecting the timing of
certain bonus payments, some restructuring in branch offices and
foreign exchange differences. The average Group headcount for the
period was 197 compared to 204 for the full 2017 financial year.
Headcount at 31 December 2017 was 192 (30 June 2017: 204).
Other administrative expenses have remained largely consistent
at GBP3.3m in this period, with no material fluctuations.
Growth investment spend represents internal and external costs
to generate opportunities for growth. For the current period, these
include costs associated with pursuing new licensing opportunities
and costs incurred to position the Group for impending regulatory
changes in the Isle of Man.
Professional fees including audit have increased in the period
as a result of increased legal costs incurred in defending
litigation against Hansard Europe and a number of other smaller
items.
6. CASH FLOW ANALYSIS
As previously highlighted, our newer suite of products has a
longer cash payback period than our older products and this will be
reflected in the analysis of future cash flows.
During the period under review, the Group increased its new
business which resulted in cash invested of GBP9.1m, against
GBP8.7m in the comparative period. The sale of regular premium
contracts produces an initial cash strain as a result of the
commission and other costs incurred at inception of a contract.
The following summarises the Group's own cash flows in the
period:
Six months Year ended
ended
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
--------------------------------- ------- ------ -------------
Net cash surplus from
operating activities 8.3 9.3 22.7
Interest received 0.5 0.4 1.0
---------------------------------- ------- ------ -------------
Net cash inflow from
operations 8.8 9.7 23.7
Net cash investment in
new business (9.1) (8.7) (17.4)
Purchase of computer
equipment and property (0.4) (0.3) (0.4)
Corporation tax received/(paid) - - (0.1)
---------------------------------- ------- ------ -------------
Net cash (outflow)/inflow
before dividends (0.7) 0.7 5.8
Dividends paid (7.2) (7.3) (12.2)
---------------------------------- ------- ------ -------------
Net cash outflow after
dividends (7.9) (6.6) (6.4)
---------------------------------- ------- ------ -------------
The factors described above, together with the payment of our
final dividend for 2017, led to a net cash outflow of GBP7.9m (H1
2017: GBP6.6m outflow) in the Group's own cash resources since 1
July 2017. The Group continues to maintain significant cash
reserves to cover such outflows and as previously highlighted, will
be reducing its dividend for 2018.
Six months Year ended
ended
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
----------------------------------- ----- ------ ------ -----------
Net cash outflow after dividends (7.9) (6.6) (6.4)
Increase in amounts due to
contract holders 3.0 1.0 1.0
Net Group cash movements (4.9) (5.6) (5.4)
Group cash - opening
position 71.6 76.6 76.6
Effect of exchange rate movements (0.5) 0.8 0.4
------------------------------------------ ------ ------ -----------
Group cash - closing
position 66.2 71.8 71.6
------------------------------------------ ------ ------ -----------
Bank deposits and money market funds
The Group's liquid assets at the balance sheet date are held in
highly-rated money market liquidity funds and with a wide range of
deposit institutions, predominantly in sterling. This approach
protects the Group's capital base from stock market falls.
Deposits totalling GBP9.5m (H1 2017: GBP18.3m) have original
maturity dates greater than 3 months and are therefore excluded
from the definition of "cash and cash equivalents" under IFRS. The
following table summarises the total shareholder cash and deposits
at the balance sheet date.
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
--------------------------- ---------- ------ --------
Money market funds 43.7 46.5 49.2
Short-term deposits with
credit institutions 12.9 7.0 8.0
Cash and cash equivalents
under IFRS 56.6 53.5 57.2
Longer-term deposits with
credit institutions 9.6 18.3 14.4
---------------------------- ---------- ------ --------
Group cash and deposits 66.2 71.8 71.6
---------------------------- ---------- ------ --------
The longer-term term deposits have maturity dates between 4
months and 12 months of the balance sheet date.
7. ABRIDGED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
The condensed consolidated balance sheet presented under IFRS
reflects the financial position of the Group at 31 December 2017.
As a result of its method of presentation, the consolidated balance
sheet incorporates the financial assets held to back the Group's
liability to contract holders, and also incorporates the net
liability to those contract holders of GBP1,087m (H1 2017:
GBP1,001m). Additionally, that portion of the Group's capital that
is held in bank deposits is disclosed in "cash and cash
equivalents" based on original maturity terms, as noted above.
The abridged consolidated balance sheet presented below,
adjusted for those differences in disclosure, allows a better
understanding of the Group's own capital position. Additional
factors impacting upon the Group's capital position at the balance
sheet date are summarised in section 10 of this Review.
As at 31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
---------------------------- ------ ------ --------
Assets
Deferred origination
costs 113.3 111.3 111.6
Other assets 10.5 8.6 7.3
Bank deposits and money
market funds 66.2 71.8 71.6
--------
190.0 191.7 190.5
---------------------------- ------ ------ --------
Liabilities
Deferred income 129.3 129.3 129.2
Other payables 32.7 29.1 29.6
--------
162.0 158.4 158.8
---------------------------- ------ ------ --------
Net assets 28.0 33.3 31.7
----------------------------- ------ ------ --------
Shareholders' equity
Share capital and reserves 28.0 33.3 31.7
----------------------------- ------ ------ --------
Deferred origination costs
The deferral of origination costs ("DOC") reflects that the
Group will earn fees over the long-term from contracts issued in a
given financial year. These costs are recoverable out of future net
income from the relevant contract and are charged to the
consolidated statement of comprehensive income on a straight-line
basis over the life of each contract.
The increase in new business over the prior period is reflected
in the net increase in carrying value of deferred origination costs
since 30 June 2017, as per the table below.
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
----------------------------- ------ ------ --------
At beginning of financial
year 111.6 110.9 110.9
Origination costs deferred
during the period 9.3 8.3 16.8
Origination costs amortised
during the period (7.6) (7.9) (16.1)
----------------------------- ------ ------ --------
113.3 111.3 111.6
----------------------------- ------ ------ --------
Deferred income
The treatment of deferred income ensures that initial fees are
taken to the consolidated statement of comprehensive income in
equal instalments over the longer-term, reflecting the services to
be provided over the period of the contract. This is consistent
with the treatment of deferred origination costs. Deferred income
at the balance sheet date is the unamortised balance of accumulated
initial amounts received on new business.
The proportion of income deferred in any one year is dependent
upon the mix and volume of new business flows in previous years.
The Group's focus on regular premium business means that these fees
are received over the initial period of the contract, rather than
being received up front, as is often the case with single premium
contracts.
The majority of initial fees collected during the period relate
to charges taken from contracts issued in prior financial years
demonstrating the cash generative nature of the business. Regular
premium contracts issued in this financial year will generate the
majority of their initial fees over the next 18 months on
average.
The movement in value of deferred income over the period is
summarised below.
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
--------------------------- ------ ------ --------
At beginning of financial
year 129.2 130.5 130.5
Initial fees collected in
the period and deferred 9.1 8.7 16.8
Income amortised during
the period to fee income (9.0) (9.9) (18.1)
129.3 129.3 129.2
--------------------------- ------ ------ --------
8. EMBEDDED VALUE RESULTS
Our business is long term in nature and therefore we present our
results on a European Embedded Value ("EEV") basis as well as a
statutory IFRS basis. Our EEV is determined on the EEV principles
published by the Chief Financial Officers ("CFO") Forum in 2004 and
most recently extended in April 2016. The EEV is the Net Worth plus
the discounted valuation of the future profits expected on best
estimate assumptions, with proper allowance for the timing of
receipt of those profits.
EEV and IFRS are different approaches to recognising the (same)
ultimate profit from an insurance contract:
-- The EEV approach recognises profit from new insurance
contracts written over the period as a lump sum addition to the
Value of In-force ("VIF") equal to the discounted value of future
profits (called the New Business Contribution or "NBC"). The VIF is
converted to cash (then included in "Net Worth") as the business
progresses. The NBC reflects the shareholder value added from new
business at point of sale. The change in EEV reflects the impact of
writing new business as well as other changes within the business
and its environment.
-- The IFRS approach smoothes the recognition of profit from new
insurance contracts by spreading the initial revenues and
corresponding costs evenly over their expected lives. The IFRS new
business result therefore reflects neither the shareholder value
added from writing new business, nor its cash impact.
Results for H1 2018 under European Embedded Value
The Group's EEV results primarily reflect income on an EEV basis
from the value of contract holder assets at 31 December 2017 and
dividends paid since 30 June 2017. The EEV profit or loss reported
is primarily driven by the levels of new business received and by
investment returns.
EEV profit for the period was GBP3.9m (H1 2017: GBP8.5m). The
largest driver of profit was GBP6.3m investment return derived from
market gains on assets under administration (H1 2017: GBP12.1m).
Included within the prior period figure was GBP5.6m of foreign
exchange gains which this period were losses of GBP4.8m.
New Business Contribution was GBP0.1m for H1 2018 (H1 2017:
GBP1.0m). The reduction in NBC from the prior period is driven by
increased initial expenses relative to levels of new business
received, related to the Group's increased investment in
distribution and new business strategy to support future new
business volumes.
The Group incurred an EEV operating loss of GBP1.9m (H1 2017:
loss of GBP2.4m) primarily as a result of negative experience
variances of GBP1.8m (H1 2017: negative GBP1.8m) over the
period.
Headline results for the EEV performance are shown in the table
below:
Six-Month Period ended 31 December H1 2018 H1 2017
GBPm GBPm
----------------------------------------------------------- -------- --------
Opening Embedded Value 195.5 195.9
----------------------------------------------------------- -------- --------
EEV Operating loss after tax (1.9) (2.4)
Investment return variances & economic assumption changes 5.8 10.9
----------------------------------------------------------- -------- --------
EEV Profit after tax 3.9 8.5
EEV before dividends 199.4 204.4
Dividends paid during the financial year (7.2) (7.3)
----------------------------------------------------------- -------- --------
Closing Embedded Value 192.2 197.1
----------------------------------------------------------- -------- --------
There was an operating loss of GBP1.9m for the period (H1 2017:
GBP2.4m loss), with the main drivers being a positive new business
contribution of GBP0.1m (H1 2017: GBP1.0m), operating assumption
changes of negative GBP0.2m (H1 2017: negative GBP2.2m) and
experience variances of negative GBP1.8m (H1 2017: negative
GBP1.8m).
The EEV was GBP192.2m at 31 December 2017, which is GBP3.3m
below the EEV at 30 June 2017 of GBP195.5m, having paid dividends
of GBP7.2m (31 December 2016: GBP197.1m, after dividends of
GBP7.3m).
Sales Metrics
New business metrics for the Group are shown below:
Six-Month Period ended 31 December H1 2018 H1 2017
New Business Sales ("PVNBP" basis) GBP77.1m GBP74.9m
New Business Contribution ("NBC") GBP0.1m GBP1.0m
New Business Margin ("NBM") 0.1% 1.3%
------------------------------------ --------- ---------
Sales volumes (in PVNBP terms) have increased to GBP77.1m from
GBP74.9m in H1 2018 as reported earlier in this Review. The NBC has
decreased to GBP0.1m (H1 2017: GBP1.0m) driven by increased initial
expenses relative to levels of new business received.
New business margin is also impacted by mix of business written,
with regular premium business having a larger margin than single
premium business. During H1 2018, a higher proportion of single
premium business was written than H1 2017. Regular premium business
was 49% (H1 2017: 57%) of total PVNBP.
EEV Balance Sheet
The EEV Balance Sheet comprises of Net Worth and the Value of
Future Profits ("VFP"). The VFP converts to cash, or Net Worth, to
repay the capital invested in prior periods.
Net Worth has been reduced since 30 June 2017 by dividends paid
of GBP7.2m.
Net Worth is typically held in a wide range of deposit
institutions and in highly-rated money market liquidity funds. This
prudent investment policy has removed much of the market risk and
provided a stable and resilient solvency position over recent
years.
The high-level components of EEV are shown in the table
below:
H1 2018 H1 2017
GBPm GBPm
--------------------------------- -------- --------
Free Surplus 16.3 23.2
Required Capital 27.7 28.0
--------------------------------- -------- --------
Net Worth 44.0 51.2
--------------------------------- -------- --------
VIF 154.5 153.1
Other (6.3) (7.2)
--------------------------------- -------- --------
Value Of Future Profits ('VFP') 148.2 145.9
--------------------------------- -------- --------
EEV 192.2 197.1
--------------------------------- -------- --------
The change in the VFP reflects sterling exchange rates on 31
December 2017, new business, the conversion of VFP to Net Worth and
the impact of contract holder behaviour.
Net Worth has reduced to GBP44.0m from GBP49.2m at 30 June 2017,
after dividend payments of GBP7.2m (H1 2017: GBP7.3m).
The Required Capital has decreased marginally: it includes
around GBP19.7m (H1 2017: GBP20.4m) of Hansard Europe capital, the
use of which management estimates is constrained for up to three
years pending the resolution of on-going litigation.
The Other component of VFP is the reduction for non-market risk
and frictional costs.
Change in Net Worth
The change in the Net Worth over the year shows the
cash-generative capacity of the Group's operations and its use of
cash in the period. The conversion to Net Worth from existing
business is progressing as expected. The business has generated net
cash of GBP14.5m (H1 2017: GBP15.1m) of which GBP12.5m (H1 2017:
GBP12.1m) relates to costs involved in acquiring new business in
the period, shown as new business cashflows below. The net worth
variance is driven primarily by contact holder activity variances,
specifically surrender penalities, unit pricing and foreign
exchange margins, premium underpayments and expense levels.
Six Month Period ended 31 December H1 2018 H1 2017
GBPm GBPm
--------------------------------------------------------- -------- --------
Opening Net Worth 49.2 55.5
--------------------------------------------------------- -------- --------
Expected conversion to Net Worth from existing business 17.3 15.1
Time value (0.5) -
Net Worth variance (2.3) -
--------------------------------------------------------- -------- --------
Cash Generated 14.5 15.1
Dividends paid (7.2) (7.3)
New business cashflows (12.5) (12.1)
--------------------------------------------------------- -------- --------
Closing Net Worth 44.0 51.2
--------------------------------------------------------- -------- --------
EEV Profit after Tax
The Group's EEV profit after tax is lower than last year at
GBP3.9m (H1 2017: GBP8.5m). This primarily reflects a lower
positive investment return variance of GBP6.3m (H1 2017 GBP12.1m).
The components are shown in the table below:
H1 2018 H1 2017
GBPm GBPm
---------------------------------------------- -------- --------
New Business Contribution 0.1 1.0
Expected return on new and existing business 0.3 0.3
Expected return on Net Worth 0.1 0.1
Model changes (0.4) 0.2
Operating assumption changes (0.2) (2.2)
Experience variances (1.8) (1.8)
---------------------------------------------- -------- --------
EEV operating loss after tax (1.9) (2.4)
Investment return variances 6.3 12.1
Economic assumption changes (0.5) (1.2)
EEV profit after tax 3.9 8.5
---------------------------------------------- -------- --------
Experience Variances
H1 2018 H1 2017
GBPm GBPm
----------------------------------- -------- --------
Ongoing expenses (0.5) (0.5)
Foreign exchange and unit pricing (0.5) 0.2
Full encashments (0.3) (1.4)
Premium persistency (0.1) (1.5)
One-off expenses - 0.7
Other (0.4) 0.7
Experience variances (1.8) (1.8)
----------------------------------- -------- --------
Experience variances arise when the behaviour of the existing
book differs from that assumed. The experience variance of negative
GBP1.8m is proportionally small to the EEV and shows that the
existing book is behaving broadly in line with assumptions.
Operating Assumption Changes
The operating assumption changes reflect changes in management's
view of the behaviour of the existing business. These changes
decreased the EEV by GBP0.2m, (H1 2017: decrease of GBP2.2m), as
shown below.
Operating assumptions are generally management's best estimate,
having regard to recent experience.
H1 2018 H1 2017
GBPm GBPm
------------------------------ -------- --------
Full encashments - (1.1)
Ongoing expenses - (1.1)
Other (0.2) -
Operating assumption changes (0.2) (2.2)
------------------------------ -------- --------
Investment Return Variances
Investment return variances principally reflect the investment
choices, by nature and currency, made by contract holders. It is
largely outside the Group's control.
H1 2018 H1 2017
GBPm GBPm
------------------------------------------------- -------- --------
Investment performance of contract holder funds 10.4 6.1
Exchange rate movements (4.8) 5.6
Shareholder return 0.6 0.3
Other 0.1 0.1
Investment return variances 6.3 12.1
------------------------------------------------- -------- --------
The exchange rate movements arise because most premiums are
paid, and the greater proportion of contract holder-selected assets
are denominated, in currencies other than sterling, whereas
financial reporting is in sterling, based on exchange rates on the
last day of the financial period.
Economic Assumption Changes
There was a negative variance of GBP0.5m (H1 2017: negative
GBP1.2m) from Economic Assumption changes. This reflects changes in
the risk free rates for the currencies in which contract holder
assets are denominated.
9. ASSETS UNDER ADMINISTRATION
In the following paragraphs, assets under administration ("AuA")
refers to net assets held to cover financial liabilities as
analysed in note 12 to the condensed consolidated financial
statements presented under IFRS.
The Group enjoys a stream of cash flows from its regular premium
contracts administered on behalf of clients around the world. The
majority of premium contributions are designated in currencies
other than sterling, reflecting the wide geographical spread of
those contract holders.
These flows are offset by charges and withdrawals, by premium
holidays affecting regular premium policies and by market valuation
movements. Certain collective investment schemes linked to
customers' contracts can from time to time become illiquid,
suspended or be put into liquidation. In such cases, the directors
are required to exercise their judgement in relation to the fair
value of these assets. The cumulative impact on the balance sheet
is not material.
The following table summarises Group AuA performance for H1
2018:
31 December 30
June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
---------------------------------- -------- -------- --------
Deposits to investment contracts
- regular premiums 42.5 42.2 84.5
Deposits to investment contracts
- single premiums 35.1 30.9 66.4
Withdrawals from contracts
and charges (97.8) (83.0) (159.2)
Effect of market and currency
movements 57.9 87.4 134.5
----------------------------------- -------- -------- --------
Movement in period 37.7 77.5 126.2
Opening balance 1,049.7 923.5 923.5
----------------------------------- -------- -------- --------
Closing balance 1,087.4 1,001.0 1,049.7
----------------------------------- -------- -------- --------
We have seen an increase in deposits to investment contracts in
both categories over the comparative period, which demonstrates the
positive impact of our strategy on the business. The increase in
withdrawals compared to H1 2017 was impacted by one particularly
large withdrawal.
Positive market gains have resulted in overall the Group AuA
increasing to GBP1.09 billion, an increase of GBP37.7m or 4% from
the position at 30 June 2017.
Since it closed to new business in 2013, Hansard Europe has
experienced significant capital outflows, as expected. Such
outflows have tapered off in recent years.
31 December 30
June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
----------------------- -------- -------- --------
Hansard International 927.2 827.3 878.5
Hansard Europe 160.2 173.7 171.2
----------------------- -------- -------- --------
1,087.4 1,001.0 1,049.7
----------------------- -------- -------- --------
The value of AuA is based upon the assets selected by or on
behalf of contract holders to meet their needs from time to time.
Reflecting the wide geographical spread of the Group's contract
holders, the majority of AuA are designated in currencies other
than sterling. The currency denomination of AuA is similar to that
of H1 2017. At the balance sheet date approximately 61% of AuA is
denominated in US Dollars, with a further 19% in sterling and 17%
denominated in euro, as reflected in note 4 to the condensed
consolidated financial statements.
10. CAPITALISATION AND SOLVENCY
The Group's authorised life insurance subsidiaries continue to
be well capitalised with free assets well in excess of the
regulatory requirements in each relevant jurisdiction. There has
been no material change in the Group's management of capital during
the period.
Solvency capital is a combination of future margins, where
permitted by regulation, and capital. Where future margins are
denominated in non-sterling currencies, it is vulnerable to the
weakening of those currencies relative to sterling. All of the
Group's excess capital is invested in a wide range of deposit
institutions and highly-rated money market liquidity funds,
predominantly in sterling. This approach immunises the Group's
capital base from stock market falls.
The in-force portfolio has no material investment options or
guarantees that could cause capital strain and retains very little
of the mortality risk that it has accepted (the balance being
reinsured with premium reinsurers). There is no longevity risk
exposure.
Policy on capital maintenance
It is the Group's policy to maintain a strong capital base in
order to:
-- satisfy the requirements of its contract holders, creditors and regulators;
-- maintain financial strength to support new business growth and create shareholder value;
-- match the profile of its assets and liabilities, taking
account of the risks inherent in the business and;
-- generate operating cash flows to fund dividend requirements.
Within the Group each subsidiary company manages its own
capital. Capital generated in excess of planned requirements is
returned to the Company by way of dividends. Group capital
requirements are monitored by the Board.
The capital held within Hansard Europe is considered not to be
available for dividend to Hansard Global plc until such time as the
legal cases referred to in note 17 to the condensed consolidated
financial statements are substantially resolved.
11. DIVIDS
A final dividend of 5.3p per share in relation to the previous
financial year was paid in November 2017. This amounted to
GBP7.2m.
The Board has considered the results for H1 2018, the Group's
continued cash flow generation and its future expectations and has
resolved to pay an interim dividend of 1.8p per share (2017: 3.6p).
This is in line with guidance provided in our prior period Report.
This dividend will be paid on 10 April 2018.
12. COMPLAINTS AND POTENTIAL LITIGATION
The Group continues to deal with policyholder complaints,
principally in relation to asset performance issues arising from
policyholders resident in Europe. Even though the Group does not
give any investment advice, as this is left to the contract holder
directly or through an agent, advisor or an entity appointed at
their request or preference, the Group has been subject to a number
of complaints in relation to the performance of assets linked to
contracts.
Some of these complaints escalate into litigation. As at the
report date of the 2017 Annual Report and Accounts, the Group faced
litigation based on writs totalling EUR16.9m or GBP14.8m. The
corresponding figure as at 31 December 2017 was EUR16.4m or
GBP14.6m (31 December 2016: EUR15.9m or GBP13.6m). The total has
decreased marginally since the date of the Annual Report due to
fluctuations in the market value of underlying contract holder
assets. Between 31 December 2017 and the date of this report, two
significant appeal court cases in Belgium totalling just under
EUR1m were ruled in the Group's favour.
While it is not possible to forecast or determine the final
results of such litigation, based on the pleadings and advice
received from the Group's legal representatives and experience with
cases previously successfully defended, we believe we have a strong
chance of success in defending these claims. The writs have
therefore been treated as contingent liabilities and are disclosed
in note 17 to the condensed consolidated financial statements.
13. NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE
On an EEV basis, the net asset value per share at 31 December
2017 is 139.8p (H1 2017: 143.4p) based on the EEV at the balance
sheet date divided by the number of shares in issue at that date,
being 137,449,611 ordinary shares (H1 2017: 137,440,456).
The net asset value per share on an IFRS basis at 31 December
2017 is 20.4p (H1 2017: 24.2p) based on the net assets in the
Consolidated Balance Sheet divided by the number of shares in
issue.
14. RISK MANAGEMENT
As with all businesses, the Group is exposed to risk in pursuit
of its objectives. The Board has overall responsibility for the
Group's system of risk management and internal control and for
reviewing its effectiveness. The schedule of powers reserved to the
Board ensures that the Directors are responsible for determining,
evaluating and controlling the nature and extent of the principal
risks which the Board is willing to take in achieving its strategic
objectives and the Board oversees the strategies for principal
risks that have been identified.
The Executive Management Team works within the risk appetite
established by the Board and the governance, risk management and
internal control arrangements which constitute the Group Enterprise
Risk Management (ERM) Programme and which direct the Group,
including setting the cultural tone and expectations from the top,
delegating authorities and monitoring compliance.
Having regard to the Financial Reporting Council's 'Guidance on
Risk Management, Internal Control and Related Financial and
Business Reporting', the ERM Programme encompasses the policies,
processes, tasks, behaviours and other aspects of the Group's
environment, which cumulatively:
-- Facilitate the effective and efficient operation of the Group
and its subsidiaries by enabling appropriate responses to be made
to significant business, operational, financial, compliance and
other risks to business objectives, so safeguarding the assets of
the Group;
-- Help to ensure the quality of internal and external
reporting. This requires the maintenance of proper records and
processes that generate a flow of timely, relevant and reliable
information from within and outside the Group;
-- Seek to ensure compliance with applicable laws and
regulations and also with internal policies with respect to the
conduct of business.
Risk management processes are undertaken on both a bottom-up and
top-down basis. The top-down aspect involves the Board assessing,
analysing and evaluating what it believes to be the principal risks
facing the Group. The bottom-up approach involves the
identification, review and monitoring of current and
forward-looking risks on a continuous basis at functional and
divisional levels, with analysis and formal reporting to the
Executive Risk Committee, established by the Board, on a quarterly
basis and onward analytical reporting to the Board. The terms of
reference of the Committee are published on the Company's
website.
The system of internal control is designed to manage rather than
eliminate risk of failure to achieve business objectives, and can
only provide reasonable and not absolute assurance against material
misstatement or loss.
Risks relating to the Group's financial and other exposures
Hansard's business model involves the controlled acceptance and
management of risk exposures. Under the terms of the unit-linked
investment contracts issued by the Group, the contract holder bears
the investment risk on the assets in the unit-linked funds, as the
contract benefits are directly linked to the value of the assets in
the funds. These assets are administered in a manner consistent
with the expectations of the contract holders. By definition, there
is a precise match between the investment assets and the contract
holder liabilities, and so the market risk and credit risk lie with
contract holders.
The Group's exposure on this unit-linked business is limited to
the extent that income arising from asset management charges and
commissions is generally based on the value of assets in the funds,
and any sustained falls in value will reduce earnings. In addition,
there are certain financial risks (credit, market and liquidity
risks) in relation to the investment of shareholders' funds. The
Group's exposure to financial risks is explained in note 4 to the
condensed consolidated financial statements. Additionally, the EEV
information includes a summary of the sensitivity of the Group's
EEV results to economic and other factors.
A comprehensive review of the principal risks and uncertainties
facing the business, and the Group's approach to managing these
risks and uncertainties, is outlined on pages 29 to 31 of the 2017
Annual Report. These principal risks and uncertainties have not
changed materially since the 2017 Annual Report was published.
The Board believes that the principal risks facing the Group's
earnings and financial position are those risks which are inherent
to the Group's business model and to the environment within which
the Group operates. Whilst the Group's business model has
historically served to minimise the principal risks facing the
Group, the regulatory environment continues to evolve at both a
local and international level and the risk management and internal
control frameworks of the Group will need to remain responsive to a
number of developments. This includes the Isle of Man Financial
Services Authority's 'Roadmap for Updating the Regulatory Framework
for Insurance Business' which comes into force over the course of
2018-19. The Roadmap includes new conduct of business and
policyholder disclosure requirements, a more sophisticated risk
based capital and solvency regime, a group supervision framework
and enhanced governance and enterprise risk management
requirements.
Principal Risks
The following table sets out the principal inherent risks that
may impact on the Group's strategic objectives, profitability or
capital and how such risks are managed or mitigated. The Board
robustly reviews and considers its principal risks on at least an
annual basis.
Risk Risk factors and management
---------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------
Business model The scale and pace of change in
risk regulatory and supervisory standards
at an international level continue
to drive developments at a local
level. The interpretation or application
of regulation over time may impact
market accessibility, broker relationships
and / or competitive positioning.
If the Group fails to monitor the
regulatory environment or adequately
integrate the management of associated
obligations within strategic, business
model or business planning processes
there may be material risk to the
achievement of strategic objectives
both in the short and longer term.
How we manage the risk:
* Robust strategic planning processes informed by
analytical review of the external environment and
consideration of associated risk in the shorter and
longer term.
* Continuous monitoring and review of developments in
local and international law and regulation.
* Engagement with regulatory authorities and industry
bodies, including active engagement in and responding
to regulatory consultation exercises.
---------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------
Distribution The business environment in which
strategy compromised the international insurance industry
as a result operates is subject to continuous
of market change as new market and competitor
changes, technology forces come into effect and as
or competitor technology continues to evolve.
activity Hansard may fail to sufficiently
differentiate itself from its competitors
and global brands and as a result
be unable to build and sustain
successful distribution relationships.
How we manage the risk:
* Close monitoring of marketplaces and competitor
activity for signs of threats to forecast new
business levels.
* Revised strategies designed to add additional scale
to the business, on a more diversified basis, through
organic growth at acceptable levels of risk and
profitability.
* Continuous development of technology.
---------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------
Conduct risk Any failure to adequately assess,
monitor, manage and mitigate risks
to the delivery of fair customer
outcomes, or to market integrity,
can be expected to result in material
detriment to the achievement of
strategic objectives and is likely
to incur regulatory censure, financial
penalty, contract holder litigation
and / or reputational damage.
How we manage the risk:
* Developments in the Group's ERM framework will
continue to drive and deliver the integration of
conduct risk management at both a cultural and
practical level.
* Business activities designed to manage the volume and
velocity of regulatory change are fundamentally
concerned with ensuring compliance with conduct risk
obligations, managing conflicts of interest,
preventing market abuse and building robust
governance arrangements around new product
development and product suitability processes.
* The Group maintains regular dialogue with its
regulatory authorities and continual discussions with
its advisors in relation to developments in the
regulatory environment in which we operate.
---------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------
Infrastructure A material failure in our core
failure business systems or business processes
may result in significant, costly
interruptions, customer dissatisfaction
and regulatory censure.
How we manage the risk:
* Maintenance of detailed and robust Business
Continuity Plans, including full data replication at
an independent recovery centre, which can be invoked
when required.
* Frequent and robust testing of business continuity
and disaster recovery arrangements.
------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------
Cyber risk As we and our business partners
increasingly digitalise our businesses,
we are unavoidably exposed to the
risk of cybercrime. If the Group
fails to take adequate and appropriate
measures to protect its systems
and data from the inherent risk
of attack, disruption and/or unauthorised
access by internal or external
parties could arise, resulting
in confidential data being exposed
and/or systems interruption. A
significant cybercrime event could
result in reputational damage,
regulatory censure and financial
loss.
How we manage the risk:
* Continuous focus on the maintenance of a robust,
secure and resilient IT environment that protects
customer and corporate data.
* Control techniques deployed to evaluate the security
of systems and proactively address emerging threats
both internally within the organisation and
externally, through regular engagement with internet
and technology providers and through industry forums.
------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------
Failure to Delivery of the Group's strategy
drive the is dependent on attracting and
right corporate retaining experienced and high-performing
culture and management and staff. The performance,
attract, develop, knowledge and skills of our employees
engage and are central to our success. We
retain key must attract, integrate, engage
personnel and retain the talent required
to deliver our strategy and have
the appropriate processes and culture
in place. The inability to retain
key people, and adequately plan
for succession will negatively
impact on the performance of the
Group.
How we manage the risk:
* Significant resources focussed on communicating
strategy and desired cultural behaviours to all
employees.
* Forums established for employees to provide feedback
for continuous improvement.
* Employee engagement monitored and measured through
periodic employee surveys.
* Group performance management system in place.
* Training and development strategy in place to manage
talent, provide development opportunities and address
any skill gaps.
* Remuneration models and trends monitored closely by
the Group's Human Resources department and the
Remuneration committee.
* Succession planning strategy in place, to manage and
mitigate 'key person' risk.
------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------
Other Key Risks
In addition to the principal risks identified above, there are
other key risks that the Group is subject to that derive from the
nature of the business it operates. These are outlined below,
together with how they are managed.
Risk Risk factors and management
-------------- ----------------------------------------
Market risk While the Group does not invest
shareholder funds in assets subject
to any significant market risk,
the Group's earnings and profitability
are influenced by the performance
of contract holder assets and
the fees derived from their value.
Significant changes in equity
markets and interest rates can
adversely affect fee income earned.
Extreme market conditions can
influence the purchase of financial
services products and the period
over which business is retained.
How we manage the risk --- These
risks are inherent in the provision
of investment-linked products.
We model our business plans across
a broad range of market and economic
scenarios and take account of
alternative economic outlooks
within our overall business strategy.
-------------- ----------------------------------------
Credit Risk In dealing with financial institutions,
banking, money market and settlement,
custody and other counterparties
the Group is exposed to the risk
of financial loss and operational
disruption of our business processes.
How we manage the risk --- The
Group seeks to limit exposure
to loss from counterparty and
third party failure through selection
criteria, minimum rating agency
limits, pre-defined risk based
limits on concentrations of exposures
and monitoring positions.
-------------- ----------------------------------------
Liquidity If the Group does not have sufficient
risk liquid assets available to pay
its creditors, the Group may fail
to honour its obligations as they
fall due, or may have to incur
significant loss or cost to do
so.
How we manage the risk --- The
Group maintains highly prudent
positions in accordance with its
risk appetite and investment policies
which ensures a high level of
liquidity is available in the
short term at all times. Generally,
shareholder assets are invested
in cash or money market instruments
with highly rated counterparties.
-------------- ----------------------------------------
Currency risk The Group operates internationally
and earns income in a range of
different currencies. The vast
majority of its operational cost
base is denominated in Sterling.
The strengthening of Sterling
against US Dollars is the most
significant exposure to reported
income levels.
How we manage the risk --- We
seek to match currency assets
and liabilities to mitigate against
currency movements to the extent
possible. As the Group's products
are long term products, over time
currency movements tend to even
out, reducing the need for active
hedging policies. Long term trends
are monitored however and considered
in pricing models.
-------------- ----------------------------------------
Further detail around financial risks is outlined in Note 3
(Financial Risk Management) to the condensed consolidated financial
statements.
Statement of Directors' responsibilities
The Directors, whose names are reflected on the Company's
website, www.hansard.com, confirm that, to the best of their
knowledge, this condensed set of consolidated half-yearly financial
statements has been prepared in accordance with IAS 34 as adopted
by the European Union and that the interim management report
includes a fair review of the information required by DTR 4.2.7 and
DTR 4.2.8, namely:
-- An indication of important events that have occurred during
the first six months of the financial year and their impact on the
condensed consolidated set of financial statements, and a
description of the principal risks and uncertainties for the
remaining six months of the financial year and;
-- Material related party transactions in the first six months
and any material changes in the related party transactions
described in the last annual report.
The Directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity
of the corporate and financial information included on the
Company's website. Legislation in the Isle of Man governing the
preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ
from legislation in other jurisdictions.
By order of the Board
P P C Gregory G S Marr
Non-executive Chairman Chief Executive Officer
21 February 2018
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive
Income
Year
Six months ended
ended
31 December 31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
Notes GBPm GBPm GBPm
--- ---------------------------------------- ------ ----------- ------------ --------
Fees and commissions 6 25.7 26.7 52.6
Investment and other income 58.6 88.3 136.0
---------------------------------------------- ------ ----------- ------------ --------
84.3 115.0 188.6
---------------------------------------------- ------ ----------- ------------ --------
Change in provisions for
investment contract liabilities (58.0) (87.4) (134.5)
Origination costs (9.1) (9.5) (19.3)
Administrative and other
expenses 7 (13.7) (13.7) (27.1)
---------------------------------------------- ------ ----------- ------------ --------
(80.8) (110.6) (180.9)
---------------------------------------------- ------ ----------- ------------ --------
Profit on ordinary activities
before taxation 3.5 4.4 7.7
Taxation on profit on ordinary 8 - - -
activities
---------------------------------------------- ------ ----------- ------------ --------
Profit and total comprehensive
income for
the period after taxation 3.5 4.4 7.7
---------------------------------------------- ------ ----------- ------------ --------
Earnings Per Share
Year
Six months ended
ended
31 December 31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
Note (p) (p) (p)
--------- ------ ----------- ------------ --------
Basic 9 2.5 3.2 5.6
Diluted 9 2.5 3.2 5.6
----------- ------ ----------- ------------ --------
The notes on pages 31 to 42 form an integral part of these
condensed financial statements.
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes
in Equity
Share Other Retained
Capital reserves earnings Total
Note GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
-------------------------------- --------- -------- --------- --------- ------
Shareholders' equity
at 1 July 2016 68.7 (48.3) 15.8 36.2
Profit and total comprehensive
income for
the period after taxation - - 4.4 4.4
Transactions with
owners
Dividends 10 - - (7.3) (7.3)
--------- ------
Shareholders' equity at
31 December 2016 68.7 (48.3) 12.9 33.3
------------------------------------------- -------- --------- --------- ------
Share Other Retained
Capital reserves earnings Total
Note GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
----------------------- ----- -------- --------- --------- ------
Shareholders' equity
at 1 July 2017 68.7 (48.3) 11.3 31.7
Profit and total
comprehensive income
for the period after
taxation - - 3.5 3.5
Transactions with
owners
Dividends 10 - - (7.2) (7.2)
----------------------- ----- -------- --------- --------- ------
Shareholders' equity at
31 December 2017 68.7 (48.3) 7.6 28.0
------------------------------ -------- --------- --------- ------
The notes on pages 31 to 42 form an integral part of these
condensed financial statements.
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet
31 December 31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
Notes GBPm GBPm GBPm
Assets
Property, plant and
equipment 1.2 1.1 1.0
Deferred origination
costs 11 113.3 111.3 111.6
Financial investments
Equity securities 25.4 10.4 20.5
Collective investment
schemes 969.6 861.8 920.9
Fixed income securities 21.3 29.4 22.0
Deposits and money
market funds 82.2 119.3 103.1
Other receivables 7.8 5.9 5.2
Cash and cash equivalents 56.6 53.5 57.2
------------------------------ ------ ------------ ------------ --------
Total assets 1,277.4 1,192.7 1,241.5
------------------------------ ------ ------------ ------------ --------
Liabilities
Financial liabilities
under investment contracts 12 1,087.4 1,001.0 1,049.7
Deferred income 13 129.3 129.3 129.2
Amounts due to investment
contract holders 23.8 21.8 22.8
Other payables 14 8.9 7.3 8.1
------------------------------ ------ ------------ ------------ --------
Total liabilities 1,249.4 1,159.4 1,209.8
------------------------------ ------ ------------ ------------ --------
Net assets 28.0 33.3 31.7
------------------------------ ------ ------------ ------------ --------
Shareholders' equity
Called up share capital 15 68.7 68.7 68.7
Other reserves (48.3) (48.3) (48.3)
Retained earnings 7.6 12.9 11.3
------------------------------ ------ ------------ ------------ --------
Total shareholders'
equity 28.0 33.3 31.7
------------------------------ ------ ------------ ------------ --------
The notes on pages 31 to 42 form an integral part of these
condensed financial statements.
The condensed financial statements on pages 27 to 42 were
approved by the Board on 21 February 2018 and signed on its behalf
by:
P. P. C. Gregory G. S. Marr
Director Director
Condensed Consolidated Cash Flow Statement
Six months Year
ended ended
31 December 31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
--- ------------------------------------ ------------ ------------ --------
Cash flow from operating
activities
Profit before tax for the
period 3.5 4.4 7.7
Adjustments for:
Depreciation 0.2 0.2 0.4
Dividends receivable (2.5) (2.7) (3.9)
Interest receivable (0.5) (0.2) (0.8)
Foreign exchange (loss)/gain 0.5 (0.8) (0.4)
Changes in operating assets
and liabilities
Increase in receivables (2.3) (1.5) (0.7)
Dividends received 2.5 2.7 3.9
Interest received 0.5 0.4 0.8
Increase in deferred origination
costs (1.7) (0.3) (0.7)
(Increase)/decrease in deferred
income (0.1) (1.2) (1.3)
Increase in payables 1.7 1.7 3.5
Increase in financial investments (32.0) (80.6) (126.3)
Increase in financial liabilities 37.7 77.4 126.3
------------------------------------------- ------------ ------------ --------
Cash flow from operations 7.5 (0.5) 8.5
Corporation tax paid - - (0.1)
------------------------------------------- ------------ ------------ --------
Net cash from operations
after taxation 7.5 (0.5) 8.4
------------------------------------------- ------------ ------------ --------
Cash flows from investing
activities
Purchase of property, plant
and equipment (0.4) (0.3) (0.4)
Proceeds from sale of investments - 0.1 (0.3)
Purchase of investments - (0.2) (0.2)
------------------------------------------- ------------ ------------ --------
Cash flows used in investing
activities (0.4) (0.4) (0.3)
------------------------------------------- ------------ ------------ --------
Cash flows from financing
activities
Dividends paid (7.2) (7.3) (12.2)
------------------------------------------- ------------ ------------ --------
Cash flows used in financing
activities (7.2) (7.3) (12.2)
Net decrease in cash and
cash
equivalents (0.1) (8.2) (4.1)
Cash and cash equivalents
at beginning of period 57.2 60.9 60.9
Effect of exchange rate
changes (0.5) 0.8 0.4
------------------------------------------- ------------ ------------ --------
Cash and cash equivalents
at period end 56.6 53.5 57.2
------------------------------------------- ------------ ------------ --------
The notes on pages 31 to 42 form an integral part of these
condensed financial statements.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
1 General information
The principal activity of the Company is to act as the holding
company of the Hansard Group of companies. The activities of the
principal operating subsidiaries include the transaction of life
assurance business and related activities.
The Company has its primary listing on the London Stock
Exchange.
These condensed consolidated half-yearly financial statements
are unaudited and do not comprise statutory financial statements.
The condensed consolidated half-yearly financial statements were
approved by the Board of Directors on 21 February 2018.
The Board of Directors approved the Group's statutory financial
statements for the year ended 30 June 2017 on 27 September 2017.
The report of the independent auditor on those financial statements
was unqualified and did not contain an emphasis of matter
paragraph.
2 Basis of presentation
These condensed consolidated half-yearly financial statements
for the half-year ended 31 December 2017 have been prepared in
accordance with the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the
Financial Conduct Authority ("DTR") and with IAS 34 "Interim
Financial Reporting" as adopted by the European Union ("EU"). The
condensed consolidated half-yearly financial statements should be
read in conjunction with the annual financial statements for the
year ended 30 June 2017, which were prepared in accordance with
International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the
EU.
Except where otherwise stated, all figures included in the
condensed consolidated half-yearly financial statements are stated
in pounds sterling, which is also the functional currency of the
Company, rounded to the nearest hundred thousand pounds.
The following amended standards, which the Group have adopted as
of 1 July 2017, have not had any material impact on the Group's
reported results:
-- Annual improvements 2014-2016 Cycle (issued on 8 December 2016)
-- Amendments to IAS 7: Disclosure Initiative (issued on 29 January 2016)
-- Amendments to IAS 12: Recognition of Deferred Tax Assets for
Unrealised Losses (issued on 19 January 2016)
Going Concern
As shown within the Business and Financial Review, the Group's
capital position is strong and well in excess of regulatory
requirements. The long-term nature of the Group's business results
in considerable positive cash flows arising from existing business.
As a consequence, the Directors believe that the Group is well
placed to manage its business risks successfully.
The Directors are satisfied that the Company and the Group have
adequate resources to continue to operate as a going concern for
the foreseeable future and have prepared the condensed consolidated
financial statements on that basis.
3 Principal accounting policies
As required by the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the
Financial Conduct Authority, this condensed set of consolidated
financial statements has been prepared applying the accounting
policies and standards that were applied, and the critical
accounting estimates and judgements in applying them, in the
preparation of the Group's published consolidated financial
statements for the year ended 30 June 2017. The published
consolidated financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2017
can be accessed on the Company's website: www.hansard.com.
4 Financial risk management
Risk management objectives and risk policies
The Group's operations expose it to a variety of financial
risks. The Group's objective in the management of financial risk is
to minimise, where practicable, its exposure to such risk, except
when necessary to support other objectives. The Group seeks to
manage risk through the operation of unit-linked business whereby
the contract holder bears the financial risk. The Group's exposure
is limited to the extent that certain fees and commission income
are based on the value of assets in the unit-linked funds. In
addition, shareholder assets are invested in highly rated
investments.
Overall responsibility for the management of the Group's
exposure to risk is vested in the Board. To support it in this
role, an enterprise risk management ("ERM") framework is in place
comprising risk identification, risk assessment, control and
reporting processes. Information concerning the operation of the
Enterprise Risk Management framework to manage financial and other
risks is contained within the Report and Accounts for the year
ended 30 June 2017, and particularly in note 3 thereto, "Financial
risk management".
The more significant financial risks to which the Group is
exposed, and an estimate of the potential financial impact of each
on the Group's IFRS earnings, are set out below. For each category
of risk, the Group determines its risk appetite and sets its
investment, treasury and associated policies accordingly.
4.1 Market risk
This is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a
financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market
prices, analysed between price, interest rate and currency risk.
The Group adopts a risk averse approach to market risk, with a
stated policy of not actively pursuing or accepting market risk
except where necessary to support other objectives. However, the
Group accepts the risk that the fall in equity or other asset
values, whether as a result of price falls or strengthening of
sterling against the currencies in which contract holder assets are
denominated, will reduce the level of annual management charge
income derived from such contract holder assets and the risk of
lower future profits.
Sensitivity analysis to market risk
The Group's business is unit-linked and the direct associated
market risk is therefore borne by contract holders (although there
is a secondary impact as shareholder income is dependent upon the
markets, as mentioned above). Financial assets and liabilities to
support Group capital resources held outside unitised funds
primarily consist of units in money market funds, cash and cash
equivalents, and other assets and liabilities. Cash held in
unitised money market funds and at bank is valued at par and is
unaffected by movement in interest rates. Other assets and
liabilities are similarly unaffected by market movements.
As a result of these combined factors, the Group's financial
assets and liabilities held outside unitised funds are not
materially subject to market risk, and movements at the reporting
date in interest rates and equity values have an immaterial impact
on the Group's profit after tax and equity. Future revenues from
annual management charges may be affected by movements in interest
rates, foreign currencies and equity values.
(a) Price risk
An overall change in the market value of the unit-linked funds
would affect the annual management charges accruing to the Group
since these charges, which are typically 1% p.a., are based on the
market value of assets under administration. Similarly, due to the
fact that some of these charges are deducted from policies in
contract currency, a change in foreign exchange rates relative to
sterling can result in fluctuations in fee income and expenses. The
approximate impact on the Group's profits and equity of a 10%
change in unit-linked fund values, either as a result of price or
currency fluctuations, is GBP1.6m (H1 2017: GBP1.2m) in a financial
year.
(b) Interest rate risk
Interest rate risk is the risk that the Group is exposed to
lower returns or loss as a direct or indirect result of
fluctuations in the value of, or income from, specific assets
arising from changes in underlying interest rates.
The Group is primarily exposed to interest rate risk on the
balances that it holds with credit institutions and in money market
funds. The Group has mitigated its exposure to cash flow interest
rate risk by placing a proportion of its cash holdings on
longer-term, fixed-rate deposits.
Taking into account the proportion of Group funds held on
longer-term, fixed-rate deposits, a change of 1% p.a. in interest
rates will result in an increase or decrease of approximately
GBP0.4m (H1 2017: GBP0.5m) in the Group's annual investment income
and equity.
A summary of the Group's liquid assets at the balance sheet date
is set out in note 4.2.
(c) Currency risk
Currency risk is the risk that the Group is exposed to higher or
lower returns as a direct or indirect result of fluctuations in the
value of, or income from, specific assets and liabilities arising
from changes in underlying exchange rates.
(c) (i) Group foreign currency exposures
The Group is exposed to currency risk on the foreign currency
denominated bank balances, contract fees receivable and other
liquid assets that it holds to the extent that they do not match
liabilities in those currencies. The impact of currency risk is
minimised by frequent repatriation of excess foreign currency funds
to sterling. The Group does not hedge foreign currency cash
flows.
At the balance sheet date the Group had exposures in the
following currencies:
31 December
2017 2017 2017 2016 2016 2016
US$m EURm Yenm US$m EURm Yenm
--------------------- ------- ------ -------- ------- ------ --------
Gross assets 14.7 5.3 202.9 11.8 5.0 193.7
Matching currency
liabilities (11.8) (4.6) (132.4) (11.1) (4.2) (120.2)
--------------------- ------- ------ -------- ------- ------ --------
Uncovered currency
exposures 2.9 0.7 70.5 0.7 0.8 73.5
--------------------- ------- ------ -------- ------- ------ --------
Sterling equivalent
of
exposures (GBPm) 2.1 0.6 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.5
--------------------- ------- ------ -------- ------- ------ --------
The approximate effect of a 5% change in the value of US dollars
to sterling is GBP0.1m (H1 2017: less than GBP0.1m); in the value
of the euro to sterling is less than GBP0.1m (H1 2017: less than
GBP0.1m); and in the value of the yen to sterling is less than
GBP0.1m (H1 2017: less than GBP0.1m).
(c) (ii) Financial investments by currency
Certain fees and commissions are earned in currencies other than
sterling, based on the value of financial investments held in those
currencies from time to time. The sensitivity of the Group to the
currency risk inherent in investments held to cover financial
liabilities under investment contracts is incorporated within the
analysis set out in (a) above.
At the balance sheet date the analysis of financial investments
by currency denomination is as follows; US dollars: 61% (H1 2017:
61%); sterling: 19% (H1 2017: 18%); euro: 17% (H1 2017: 19%);
other: 3% (H1 2017: 2%).
4.2 Credit risk
Credit risk is the risk that the Group is exposed to lower
returns or loss if another party fails to perform its financial
obligations to the Group. The Group has adopted a risk averse
approach to such risk and has a stated policy of not actively
pursuing or accepting credit risk except when necessary to support
other objectives.
The clearing and custody operations for the Group's security
transactions are mainly concentrated with one broker, namely
Capital International Limited, a member of the London Stock
Exchange. At the balance sheet date, substantially all contract
holder cash and cash equivalents, balances due from broker and
financial investments are placed in custody with Capital
International Limited. These operations are detailed in a formal
contract that incorporates notice periods and a full exit
management plan. Delivery of services under the contract is
monitored by a dedicated relationship manager against a documented
Service Level Agreement and Key Performance Indicators.
The Group has an exposure to credit risk in relation to its
deposits with credit institutions and its investments in unitised
money market funds. To manage these risks; deposits are made, in
accordance with established policy, with credit institutions having
a short-term rating of at least F1 and P1 from Fitch IBCA and
Moody's respectively and a long term rating of at least A and A3
respectively. Investments in unitised money market funds are made
only where such fund is AAA rated. Additionally maximum
counterparty exposure limits are set both at an individual
subsidiary company level and on a Group-wide basis.
At the balance sheet date, an analysis of the Group's own cash
and cash equivalent balances and liquid investments was as
follows.
31 December 30
June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
----------------------------------- ------ ------ ------
Deposits with credit institutions 22.4 25.3 22.4
Money market funds 43.8 46.5 49.2
----------------------------------- ------ ------ ------
66.2 71.8 71.6
----------------------------------- ------ ------ ------
Maximum counterparty exposure limits are set both at an
individual subsidiary company level and on a Group wide basis.
4.3 Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group, though solvent, does
not have sufficient financial resources to enable it to meet its
obligations as they fall due, or can only secure them at excessive
cost.
The Group's objective is to ensure that it has sufficient
liquidity over short (up to one year) and medium-term time horizons
to meet the needs of the business. This includes liquidity to
cover, amongst other things, new business costs, planned strategic
activities, servicing of equity capital as well as working capital
to fund day-to-day cash flow requirements.
Liquidity risk is principally managed in the following ways:
-- Assets of a suitable marketability are held to meet contract
holder liabilities as they fall due.
-- Forecasts are prepared regularly to predict required
liquidity levels over both the short and medium term.
The Group's exposure to liquidity risk is considered to be low
since it maintains a high level of liquid assets to meet its
liabilities and estimates of new business investment
requirements.
4.4 Fair value of financial assets and liabilities
The Group closely monitors the valuation of assets in markets
that have become less liquid. Determining whether a market is
active requires the exercise of judgement and is determined based
upon the facts and circumstances of the market for the instrument
being measured. Where the Directors determine that there is no
active market for a particular financial instrument, for example
where a particular collective investment scheme is suspended from
trading, fair value is assessed using valuation techniques based on
available, relevant, information and an appraisal of all associated
risks. When a collective investment scheme recommences regular
trading, the value would be transferred back to Level 1. This
process requires the exercise of significant judgement on the part
of Directors.
Due to the linked nature of the contracts administered by the
Group's insurance undertakings, any change in the value of
financial assets held to cover financial liabilities under those
contracts will result in an equal and opposite change in the value
of contract liabilities. The separate effect on financial assets
and financial liabilities is included in investment income and
investment contract benefits, respectively, in the condensed
consolidated statement of comprehensive income.
IFRS 13 requires the Group to classify fair value measurements
into a fair value hierarchy by reference to the observability and
significance of the inputs used in measuring that fair value. The
hierarchy is as follows:
-- Level 1: fair value is determined as the unadjusted quoted
price for an identical instrument in an active market.
-- Level 2: fair value is determined using observable inputs
other than unadjusted quoted prices for an identical instrument and
that does not use significant unobservable inputs.
-- Level 3: fair value is determined using significant unobservable inputs.
The following tables analyse the Group's financial assets and
liabilities at fair value through profit or loss, at 31 December
2017:
Level Level Level Total
1 2 3
Financial assets at GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
fair value through
profit or loss
------------------------- -------- ------ ------ --------
Equity securities 25.4 - - 25.4
Collective investment
schemes 906.7 - 62.9 969.6
Fixed income securities 21.3 - - 21.3
Deposits and money
market funds 82.2 - - 82.2
1,035.6 - 62.9 1,098.5
------------------------- -------- ------ ------ --------
During the period under review no assets were transferred from
Level 1 to Level 2. Assets with a value of GBP2.9m were transferred
from Level 1 to Level 3 as the directors believe that valuations
can no longer be obtained for these assets from an observable
market price due to suspension in trading or the asset becoming
illiquid. There were no other reclassifications of assets between
the different Levels in the fair value hierarchy in the period. No
assets were transferred from Level 3 to Level 1 or Level 2 during
the financial year.
Level Level Level Total
1 2 3
GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
------------------------ ------- -------- ------ --------
Financial liabilities
at fair value
through profit or loss - 1,087.4 - 1,087.4
------------------------ ------- -------- ------ --------
The following tables analyse the Group's financial assets and
liabilities at fair value through profit or loss, at 31 December
2016:
Level Level Level Total
1 2 3
Financial assets at GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
fair value through
profit or loss
------------------------- ------ ------ ------ --------
Equity securities 10.4 - - 10.4
Collective investment
schemes 798.9 - 62.9 861.8
Fixed income securities 29.4 - - 29.4
Deposits and money
market funds 119.3 - - 119.3
958.0 - 62.9 1,020.9
------------------------- ------ ------ ------ --------
During the period-ended 31 December 2016, assets with a value of
GBP3.2m were transferred from Level 1 to Level 3 as the directors
believed that valuations could no longer be obtained for those
assets from an observable market price due to suspension in trading
or the asset becoming illiquid. There were no other
reclassifications of assets between the different Levels in the
fair value hierarchy in the period.
Level Level Level Total
1 2 3
GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
------------------------ ------- -------- ------ --------
Financial liabilities
at fair value
through profit or loss - 1,001.0 - 1,001.0
------------------------ ------- -------- ------ --------
5 Segmental information
Disclosure of operating segments in these condensed consolidated
financial statements is consistent with reports provided to the
Chief Operating Decision Maker ("CODM") which, in the case of the
Group, has been identified as the Executive Committee of Hansard
Global plc.
In the opinion of the CODM, the Group operates in a single
reportable segment, that of the distribution and servicing of
long-term investment products. New business development,
distribution and associated activities in relation to the Republic
of Ireland ceased with effect from 30 June 2013. All other
activities of the Group are continuing.
The Group's Executive Committee uses two principal measures when
appraising the performance of the business: net issued compensation
credit ("NICC") (weighted where appropriate by product line) and
expenses. NICC is a measure of the value of new in-force business
and top-ups on existing single premium contracts. NICC is the total
amount of basic initial commission payable by Hansard International
Limited to intermediaries for business sold in a period and is
calculated on each piece of new business. It excludes override
commission paid to intermediaries over and above the basic level of
commission.
The following table analyses NICC geographically and reconciles
NICC to direct origination costs during the period as set out in
section 5 of the Business and Financial Review.
Six months Year
ended ended
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2016
GBPm GBPm GBPm
----------------------------- ------ ------ --------
Middle East and Africa 1.7 1.9 3.0
Rest of World 1.9 1.4 3.0
Far East 1.2 1.2 2.9
Latin America 1.2 0.7 1.6
Net issued compensation
credit 6.0 5.2 10.5
Other commission costs paid
to third parties 2.6 2.4 4.9
Enhanced unit allocations 0.7 0.7 1.4
----------------------------- ------ ------ --------
Direct origination costs
during the period 9.3 8.3 16.8
----------------------------- ------ ------ --------
Revenues and expenses allocated to geographical locations
contained in sections 5.1 to 5.4 below, reflect the revenues and
expenses generated in or incurred by the legal entities in those
locations.
5.1 Geographical analysis of fees and commissions by origin
Six months Year
ended ended
31 December 30
June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
--------------------- ------ ------ -------
Isle of Man 23.3 23.6 46.9
Republic of Ireland 2.4 3.1 5.7
--------------------- ------ ------ -------
25.7 26.7 52.6
--------------------- ------ ------ -------
5.2 Geographical analysis of profit before taxation
Six months Year
ended ended
31 December 30
June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
--------------------- ------- ----- -------
Isle of Man 3.7 4.1 7.8
Republic of Ireland (0.2) 0.3 (0.1)
--------------------- ------- ----- -------
3.5 4.4 7.7
--------------------- ------- ----- -------
5.3 Geographical analysis of gross assets
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
--------------------- -------- -------- --------
Isle of Man 1,087.7 986.4 1,038.6
Republic of Ireland 189.7 206.3 202.9
--------------------- -------- -------- --------
1,277.4 1,192.7 1,241.5
--------------------- -------- -------- --------
5.4 Geographical analysis of gross liabilities
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
--------------------- -------- -------- --------
Isle of Man 1,078.6 972.4 1,025.8
Republic of Ireland 170.8 187.0 184.0
--------------------- -------- -------- --------
1,249.4 1,159.4 1,209.8
--------------------- -------- -------- --------
6 Fees and commissions
Six months Year
ended ended
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
----------------------- ------ ------ --------
Contract fee income 16.2 18.0 34.6
Fund management fees 7.0 6.5 13.4
Commission receivable 2.5 2.2 4.6
----------------------- ------ ------ --------
25.7 26.7 52.6
----------------------- ------ ------ --------
7 Administrative and other expenses
Included in Administrative and other expenses
are the following:
Year
Six months ended
ended
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
------------------------------- ------- ------ --------
Auditors' remuneration
- Fees payable to the
Company's auditor for the
audit of the Company's
annual accounts - - 0.1
- Fees payable for the
audit of the Company's
subsidiaries pursuant to
legislation 0.2 0.2 0.3
- Other services provided
to the Group - - 0.1
Employee costs 5.8 5.4 10.6
Directors' fees 0.1 0.1 0.3
Fund management fees 2.3 1.9 4.7
Renewal and other commission 0.4 0.5 1.4
Professional and other
fees 1.6 1.4 2.8
Impairment of broker balances
receivable - 0.7 1.1
Litigation settlements - 0.1 1.0
Operating lease rentals 0.4 0.6 0.9
Licences and maintenance
fees 0.6 0.5 1.0
Insurance costs 0.6 0.5 1.1
Depreciation of property,
plant and equipment 0.2 0.2 0.4
Communications 0.2 0.3 0.6
------------------------------- ------- ------ --------
8 Taxation
The Group's profits arising from its Isle of Man-based
operations are taxable at zero percent.
Corporation tax for the Republic of Ireland-based operations is
based on the effective annual rate for taxable income of 12.5%,
applied to the expected taxable profits for the period.
9 Earnings per share
Six months Year
ended ended
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
-------------------------------- ------ ------ --------
Profit after tax (GBPm) 3.5 4.4 7.7
Weighted average number
of shares in issue (millions) 137.4 137.4 137.4
--------------------------------- ------ ------ --------
Earnings per share in pence 2.5p 3.2p 5.6p
--------------------------------- ------ ------ --------
The Directors believe that there is no material difference
between the weighted average number of shares in issue for the
purposes of calculating either basic or diluted earnings per share.
Earnings under either measure is 2.5p pence per share.
10 Dividends
Interim dividends payable to shareholders are recognised in the
year in which the dividends are paid. Final dividends payable are
recognised as liabilities when approved by the shareholders at the
annual general meeting.
The following dividends have been paid by the Group during the
period:
Year ended
Six months ended 31 30 June
December
2017 2016 2017
Per share Total Per Total Per Total
share share
p GBPm p GBPm p GBPm
------------------ ---------- ------ ------- ------ ------- ------
Final dividend
paid 5.3 7.2 5.3 7.3 5.3 7.3
Interim dividend
paid - - - - 3.6 4.9
5.2 7.2 5.3 7.3 8.9 12.2
------------------ ---------- ------ ------- ------ ------- ------
The Board have resolved to pay an increased interim dividend of
1.8p per share. This amounts to GBP2.5m and will be paid on 10
April 2018 to shareholders on the register at 2 March 2018.
11 Deferred origination costs
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
---------------------------------------------- ------ ------ --------
At beginning of financial
year 111.6 110.9 110.9
Origination costs incurred during the period 9.3 8.3 16.8
Origination costs amortised during the period (7.6) (7.9) (16.1)
113.3 111.3 111.6
------
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
Carrying value GBPm GBPm GBPm
------ ------ -------
Expected to be amortised within one year 11.1 10.9 11.0
Expected to be amortised after one year 102.2 100.4 100.6
------ ------ -------
113.3 111.3 111.6
12 Financial investments held to cover liabilities under investment contracts
The following investments, other assets and liabilities are held
to cover financial liabilities under investment contracts. They are
included within the relevant headings on the condensed consolidated
balance sheet.
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
------- ------- -------
Equity securities 25.4 10.4 20.5
Investment in collective investment schemes 969.2 861.3 920.4
Fixed income securities 21.3 29.4 22.0
Deposits and money market funds 72.7 100.9 88.8
Total assets 1,088.6 1,002.0 1,051.7
Other payables (1.2) (1.0) (2.0)
Financial investments held to cover
liabilities 1,087.4 1,001.0 1,049.7
The other receivables and other payables fair value approximates
amortised cost.
13 Deferred income
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
------ --------
At beginning of financial year 129.2 130.5 130.5
Income received and deferred in period 9.1 8.7 16.8
Income recognised in contract fees in the period (9.0) (9.9) (18.1)
129.3 129.3 129.2
------ --------
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
Carrying value GBPm GBPm GBPm
------ ------ --------
Expected to be amortised within one year 12.9 13.0 13.0
Expected to be amortised after one year 116.4 116.3 116.2
------ --------
129.3 129.3 129.2
14 Other payables
31 December 30
June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
------------------------ ------ ----- ------
Creditors and accruals 8.9 7.3 8.1
------------------------ ----- ------
15 Called up share capital
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
GBPm GBPm GBPm
Authorised:
200,000,000 ordinary shares of 50p 100.0 100.0 100.0
Issued and fully paid:
137,449,611 ordinary shares of 50p
(30 June 2017: 137,444,792 ordinary shares) 68.7 68.7 68.7
16 Related party transactions
Intra-group transactions are eliminated on consolidation and are
not disclosed separately here.
There have been no significant related party transactions in the
period other than noted in 16.1 below, nor changes to related
parties. Related party transactions affecting the results of
previous periods and an understanding of the Group's financial
position at previous balance sheet dates are as disclosed in the
Annual Report & Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2017.
There have been no significant awards during the period under
the Save As You Earn (SAYE) share-save programme for employees. The
estimated fair value of the schemes and the imputed cost for the
period under review is not material to these financial
statements.
16.1 Transactions with controlling shareholder
Dr L S Polonsky is regarded as the controlling shareholder of
the Group, as defined by the Listing Rules of the Financial Conduct
Authority.
Dr Polonsky's letter of appointment reflects his position as a
non-executive Director and President. It incorporates the
requirements of the Listing Rules of the Financial Conduct
Authority in relation to Dr Polonsky as controlling shareholder of
the Group in order to maintain effective corporate governance.
-- Dr Polonsky has an investment contract issued by the Group on
terms available to employees in general. As at 31 December 2017 Dr
Polonsky's contract had a fair value of GBP4.7m (30 June 2017:
GBP15.7m). A withdrawal of GBP10.8m was made during July 2017.
-- The Group established an Employee Benefit Trust in November
2011 with the transfer to it of 400,000 shares in Hansard Global
plc by Dr Polonsky. Dr Polonsky made a further donation of 250,000
shares to the Trust in September 2014. Following the purchase of
56,871 shares in December 2017, the Trust holds 860,820 shares (30
June 2017: 803,949) at 31 December 2017.
17 Contingent liabilities
The Group does not give any investment advice and this is left
to the contract holder directly or through an agent, advisor or an
entity appointed at the contract holder's request or preference.
Contract holders bear the financial risk relating to the
investments underpinning their contracts, as the contract benefits
are linked to the value of the assets.
Notwithstanding the above, financial services institutions are
frequently drawn into disputes in cases where the value and
performance of assets selected by or on behalf of contract holders
fails to meet their expectations. At the balance sheet date a
number of those fund structures remain affected by liquidity or
other issues that hinder their sales or redemptions on normal terms
with a consequent adverse impact on transactions.
As reported previously, the Group has been subject to a number
of complaints in relation to the selection and performance of
assets linked to contracts. Hansard Europe has been served with a
number of writs arising from such complaints and other
asset-related issues.
As at the report date of the 2017 Annual Report and Accounts,
the Group faced litigation based on writs totalling EUR16.9m or
GBP14.8m). The corresponding figure as at 31 December 2017 was
EUR16.4m or GBP14.6m (31 December 2016: EUR15.9m or GBP13.6m). The
total has decreased marginally since the date of the Annual Report
due to fluctuations in the market value of underlying contract
holder assets. Between 31 December 2017 and the date of this
report, two significant appeal court cases in Belgium totalling
just under EUR1m were ruled in the Group's favour.
While it is not possible to forecast or determine the final
results of pending or threatened legal proceedings, based on the
pleadings and advice received from the Group's legal
representatives, the Directors believe that the Group has strong
defences to such claims. Notwithstanding this, there may be
circumstances where in order to avoid the expense and distraction
of extended litigation, the Group may consider it to be in the best
interests of the Group and its shareholders to reach a resolution
with regard to certain of these claims. There were no such
settlements made or provided for during the period (H1 2017: nil).
It is not possible at this time to make any further estimates of
liability.
18 Foreign exchange rates
The closing exchange rates used by the Group for the translation
of balance sheet items to sterling were as follows:
31 December 30 June
2017 2016 2017
US Dollar 1.35 1.23 1.30
Japanese Yen 152.13 144.34 146.50
Euro 1.12 1.17 1.14
These are consistent with the rates used for the translation of
EEV future currency cash flows.
Independent review report to Hansard Global plc
Report on the condensed consolidated financial statements
Our conclusion
We have reviewed Hansard Global plc's condensed consolidated
financial statements (the "interim financial statements") in the
half-yearly report of Hansard Global plc for the 6 month period
ended 31 December 2017. Based on our review, nothing has come to
our attention that causes us to believe that the interim financial
statements are not prepared, in all material respects, in
accordance with International Accounting Standard 34, 'Interim
Financial Reporting', as adopted by the European Union and the
Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules sourcebook of the United
Kingdom's Financial Conduct Authority.
What we have reviewed
The interim financial statements comprise:
the condensed consolidated balance sheet as at 31 December
2017;
the condensed consolidated statement of comprehensive income for
the period then ended;
the condensed consolidated cash flow statement for the period
then ended;
the condensed consolidated statement of changes in equity for
the period then ended; and
the explanatory notes to the interim financial statements.
The interim financial statements included in the half-yearly
report have been prepared in accordance with International
Accounting Standard 34, 'Interim Financial Reporting', as adopted
by the European Union and the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency
Rules sourcebook of the United Kingdom's Financial Conduct
Authority.
As disclosed in note 3 to the interim financial statements, the
financial reporting framework that has been applied in the
preparation of the full annual financial statements of the Group is
applicable law and International Financial Reporting Standards
(IFRSs) as adopted by the European Union.
Responsibilities for the interim financial statements and the
review
Our responsibilities and those of the directors
The half-yearly report, including the interim financial
statements, is the responsibility of, and has been approved by, the
directors. The directors are responsible for preparing the
half-yearly report in accordance with the Disclosure Guidance and
Transparency Rules sourcebook of the United Kingdom's Financial
Conduct Authority.
Our responsibility is to express a conclusion on the interim
financial statements in the half-yearly report based on our review.
This report, including the conclusion, has been prepared for and
only for the company for the purpose of complying with the
Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules sourcebook of the United
Kingdom's Financial Conduct Authority and for no other purpose. We
do not, in giving this conclusion, accept or assume responsibility
for any other purpose or to any other person to whom this report is
shown or into whose hands it may come save where expressly agreed
by our prior consent in writing.
What a review of interim financial statements involves
We conducted our review in accordance with International
Standard on Review Engagements 2410, 'Review of Interim Financial
Information Performed by the Independent Auditor of the Entity'
issued by the International Assurance Standards Board. A review of
interim financial information consists of making enquiries,
primarily of persons responsible for financial and accounting
matters, and applying analytical and other review procedures.
A review is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted
in accordance with International Standards on Auditing and,
consequently, does not enable us to obtain assurance that we would
become aware of all significant matters that might be identified in
an audit. Accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion.
We have read the other information contained in the half-yearly
report and considered whether it contains any apparent
misstatements or material inconsistencies with the information in
the interim financial statements.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLC
Chartered Accountants
Douglas, Isle of Man
21 February 2018
EUROPEAN EMBEDDED VALUE INFORMATION
1 INTRODUCTION
The European Embedded Value ("EEV") measure is an estimate of
the value of the shareholders' interest in the Group. The EEV
covers the entire business of the Group, including its life
assurance companies and subsidiaries providing administration,
distribution and other services.
The EEV comprises Net Worth and the Value of Future Profits
("VFP") from business in-force at the valuation date, 31 December
2017. It excludes the value of any future new business that the
Group may write after the valuation date. All results are
calculated net of corporation tax.
The Group's EEV methodology complies with the EEV Principles
published by the CFO Forum in May 2004 and most recently extended
in April 2016. It has been calculated using market-consistent
economic assumptions and best estimate operating assumptions having
regard for the Group's experience and its assessment of future
experience. A description of the EEV methodology is set out in the
Notes to the EEV Information. There have been no significant
changes in the EEV methodology from that used in the previous
financial year.
2 EEV PROFIT PERFORMANCE FOR THE PERIOD
2.1 EEV Profit / (Loss)
EEV profit is a measure of the performance over the period. It
is derived as follows:
H1 2018 H1 2017
GBPm GBPm
New Business Contribution 0.1 1.0
Expected return on new and existing business 0.3 0.3
Expected return on Net Worth 0.1 0.1
Operating assumption and model changes (0.6) (2.0)
Experience variances (1.8) (1.8)
EEV operating loss after tax (1.9) (2.4)
Investment return variances 6.3 12.1
Economic assumption changes (0.5) (1.2)
EEV profit after tax 3.9 8.5
2.1.1 New Business Contribution ("NBC")
New Business Contribution is the value of new business written
in the period. It is calculated at point of sale. NBC for the half
year was GBP0.1m (H1 2017: GBP1.0m).
2.1.2 Expected Return on In Force Business (new and
existing)
Under EEV methodology, it is a convention to assume that the
value of the business grows at 'start of period' assumptions. The
Expected Return is therefore based on assumptions determined at 30
June 2017. These assumptions are applied to give the expected
conversion from VFP to Net Worth in the year, and the time value of
both existing business and non-market risk.
No assumptions are made about new business written, so the New
Business Cashflows is that incurred in the half year from new
sales, using end of period operating and start of period economic
assumptions.
H1 2018 H1 2017
EEV Net VFP* EEV Net VFP*
Worth worth
GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
Cash generated from VFP - 17.2 (17.2) - 15.1 (15.1)
New business cashflows - (12.5) 12.5 - (12.1) 12.1
Time value of existing business 0.3 (0.5) 0.8 0.3 - 0.3
Time value of new business - - - - - -
0.3 4.2 (3.9) 0.3 3.0 (2.7)
*this includes frictional costs and non-market risk, including
its time value.
The expected value of cash generated from existing business of
GBP17.2m is higher than the previous period (H1 2017: GBP15.1m).
This increase is driven by upfront charges, which are received over
an 18 month period, growing as a result of new business levels in
H1 2018 being higher than H1 2017. The higher new business
cashflows of GBP12.5m (H1 2017: GBP12.1m) reflects higher levels of
new business written over the period.
The time value figures reflect the economic assumptions at 31
December 2017 and 31 December 2016.
2.1.3 Experience Variances
Experience variances arise where experience differs from that
assumed in the prior year's EEV.
H1 2018 H1 2017
GBPm GBPm
Ongoing expenses (0.5) (0.5)
Foreign exchange and unit pricing (0.5) 0.2
Full encashments (0.3) (1.4)
Premium persistency (0.1) (1.5)
One-off expenses - 0.7
Other (0.4) 0.7
Experience Variances (1.8) (1.8)
The sum of experience variances is negative GBP1.8m (H1 2017:
negative GBP1.8m), comprising mainly of foreign exchange and unit
pricing margins and expenses.
2.1.4 Operating Assumption Changes
The operating assumption changes reflect changes in management's
view of the behaviour of the existing business. These changes
decreased the EEV by GBP0.2m (H1 2017: decrease of GBP2.2m), as
shown below.
Operating assumptions are generally management's best estimate,
having regard to recent experience.
H1 2018 H1 2017
GBPm GBPm
------------------------------ -------- --------
Full encashments - (1.1)
Ongoing expenses - (1.1)
Other (0.2) -
Operating Assumption Changes (0.2) (2.2)
------------------------------ -------- --------
2.1.5 Model Changes
The model is an approximation of the financial impact of the
expected business performance. The Group continues to develop its
modelling functionality, seeking to improve its accuracy over time.
Model changes made during the period were negative GBP0.4m (H1
2017: positive GBP0.2m). This was due to a methodology change
involving the payment of future trail commissions.
2.1.6 Expected Return on Net Worth
The expected return on Net Worth of GBP0.1m (H1 2017: GBP0.1m)
reflects the anticipated increase in shareholder assets over the
period due to the time value of money. In line with EEV convention,
its calculation is based on the 30 June 2017 year one sterling risk
free rate of 0.4% (30 June 2016: 0.4%).
2.1.7 Investment Return Variances
The combined impact of market and economic conditions led to EEV
investment return variances of GBP6.3m (H1 2017: GBP12.1m).
H1 2018 H1 2017
GBPm GBPm
Investment performance of contract holder funds 10.4 6.1
Exchange rate movements (4.8) 5.6
Shareholder return 0.6 0.3
Other 0.1 0.1
Investment Return Variances 6.3 12.1
2.1.8 Economic Assumption Changes
Economic assumption changes resulted in an EEV reduction of
GBP0.5m (H1 2017: decrease of GBP1.2m). This reflects changes in
risk free rates for the currencies to which the Group is
exposed.
2.2 ANALYSIS OF EEV PROFIT BY EEV COMPONENT
The table below shows a detailed analysis of EEV profit after
tax for the period.
H1 2018 H1 2017
Movement In Movement In
EEV Net Worth VIF EEV Net Worth VIF
GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm GBPm
New Business Contribution 0.1 (12.9) 13.0 1.0 (12.3) 13.3
Expected return on new and existing business 0.3 17.2 (16.9) 0.3 15.3 (15.0)
Expected return on Net Worth 0.1 0.1 - 0.1 0.1 -
Model changes (0.4) - (0.4) 0.2 - 0.2
Operating assumption changes (0.2) - (0.2) (2.2) - (2.2)
Experience variances (1.8) (2.9) 1.1 (1.8) (0.6) (1.2)
EEV operating profit after tax (1.9) 1.5 (3.4) (2.4) 2.5 (4.9)
Investment return variances 6.3 0.5 5.8 12.1 0.5 11.6
Economic assumption changes (0.5) - (0.5) (1.2) - (1.2)
EEV profit after tax 3.9 2.0 1.9 8.5 3.0 5.5
New Business Strain has been presented as part of New Business
Contribution rather than within the Expected Return on New and
Existing Business line as was presented in previous years. The H1
2017 analysis has been re-analysed for the purposes of
consistency.
3 EMBEDDED VALUE AT 31 DECEMBER 2017
3.1 EEV BALANCE SHEET
Following the payment of dividends of GBP7.2m (H1 2017:
GBP7.3m), the Group's EEV has decreased by GBP3.3m since 30 June
2017 to GBP192.2m (30 June 2017: GBP195.5m, 31 December 2016:
GBP197.1m). The EEV balance sheet is presented below.
H1 2018 H1 2017
GBPm GBPm
Free Surplus 16.3 23.2
Required Capital 27.7 28.0
Net Worth 44.0 51.2
VIF 154.5 153.1
Reduction for non-market risk (6.2) (6.2)
Frictional costs (0.1) (1.0)
Value Of Future Profits ("VFP") 148.2 145.9
EEV 192.2 197.1
Net Worth is the market value of shareholder funds on an IFRS
basis with adjustments to exclude certain accounting assets and
liabilities. At the balance sheet date, the Net Worth of the Group
is largely represented by liquid cash balances. Given the
uncertainties inherent in the ultimate outcome of the litigation
against Hansard Europe, shareholder funds of Hansard Europe are
treated as Required Capital. Management estimate this capital may
be constrained for up to three years.
The Value of Future Profits is the capitalised value of expected
future profit allowing for best estimate contract holder behaviour
and market consistent economic assumptions (VIF) with adjustments
for non-market risk and frictional costs. VIF is based on the value
of contract holder funds under administration at 31 December 2017.
The reduction for non-market risk represents the capitalised cost
of operational risk. Frictional costs are the costs associated with
holding Required Capital.
4 NEW BUSINESS PROFITABILITY
At the current level and mix of new business sales, new business
contribution and margin has remained marginally positive. New
Business Contribution was GBP0.1m for H1 2018 (H1 2017:
GBP1.0m).
4.1 NEW BUSINESS MARGIN
New Business Margin is the New Business Contribution divided by
the Present Value of New Business Premiums ("PVNBP"). It is a
measure of profitability (not profit), comparing the expected
profit with the value of expected premiums.
H1 2018 H1 2017
New Business Sales ("PVNBP") GBP77.1m GBP74.9m
New Business Contribution ("NBC") GBP0.1m GBP1.0m
New Business Margin ("NBM") 0.1% 1.3%
The New Business Margin for the period was 0.1% (H1 2017: 1.3%).
The reduction from the prior period is driven primarily by
increased initial expenses relative to levels of new business
received. An increased proportion of single premium business has
also reduced overall margins.
NBC and PVNBP have, by convention, been calculated using 30 June
2017 economic assumptions and 31 December 2017 operating
assumptions (which are unchanged from those at 30 June). As for the
VIF, the NBC does not take credit for possible investment returns
in excess of the projected risk-free return. NBC is shown after
allowing for the cost of required capital, calculated on the same
basis as for in-force business.
5 EEV SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS
Sensitivities provide an indication of the impact of changes in
particular assumptions on the EEV at 31 December 2017 and the NBC
for the half-year then ended.
The sensitivities will be affected by the change in the Group's
business mix: different product types are sensitive to different
assumptions in particular. Unless otherwise indicated, the
sensitivities are broadly symmetrical.
The sensitivity analysis indicates that the Group's exposure to
operating factors is limited, largely as a result of product
design. A change in the level of expenses is the main operating
exposure of the Group. The largest sensitivities for the Group are
related to economic factors. In particular, as a result of the
diversified portfolio of assets under administration, it is exposed
to movements in exchange rates and asset values through the impact
on the level of future fund-based management income.
Impact on EEV NBC
GBPm GBPm
Central assumptions 192.2 0.1
Operating sensitivities
10% decrease in expenses 9.3 0.9
1% decrease in expense inflation 5.9 0.3
1% increase in charge inflation 3.9 0.1
1% increase in expense & charge inflation (2.6) (0.3)
10% decrease in full encashment rates 1.7 0.2
Economic sensitivities
1% decrease in risk discount rate 7.5 0.4
1% increase in risk discount rate (6.8) (0.3)
1% increase in investment return rate 7.7 0.3
1% decrease in investment return rate (7.1) (0.3)
1% increase in risk discount rate & investment return rate 0.2 (0.1)
1% decrease in risk discount rate & investment return rate (0.3) 0.1
10% increase in the value of equities and property 12.1 -
10% strengthening of sterling (16.9) (0.6)
In each sensitivity calculation, all other assumptions remain
unchanged, except where indicated. There is a natural correlation
between many of the sensitivity scenarios tested, so the impact of
two occurring together is likely to be different from the sum of
the individual sensitivities.
Where only one side of a sensitivity is shown, the results are
broadly symmetric.
No changes to statutory valuation bases, pricing bases and
Required Capital have been allowed for. No future management action
has been modelled in reaction to the changing assumptions. For new
business, the sensitivities reflect the impact of a change from
inception of the policy.
NOTES TO THE EUROPEAN EMBEDDED VALUE INFORMATION
1 ECONOMIC ASSUMPTIONS
Under EEV principles, the economic assumptions used in the EEV
calculations are actively reviewed at each valuation date and are
internally consistent. The assumption setting process is generally
consistent with prior years.
1.1 Risk discount rate
The risk discount rates are set to the risk-free rates for the
applicable currency and term, sourced from the European Insurance
and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA). The EEV calculation
uses the risk-free rates at the end of the period (i.e. at the
valuation date), while the calculation of NBC and PVNBP uses the
risk-free rate at the start of the year (i.e. at the previous
year-end date).
1.2 Investment returns
All investments are assumed to provide a return equal to the
risk-free rate less external fund manager investment charges and
any other investment expenses charged directly against contract
holder funds.
1.3 Risk premium
No credit is taken in the calculation of EEV, NBC or PVNBP for
returns in excess of risk-free returns i.e. a cautious approach is
adopted by assuming an asset risk premium of zero.
1.4 Inflation rates
In setting the expense inflation assumption, consideration is
given to price and salary inflation rates in both the Isle of Man
and the Republic of Ireland, and to the Group's own expense
experience and expectations. For service companies, expense
inflation relates to the underlying expenses rather than the fees
charged to the life assurance companies.
By design, contractual monetary charge inflation is broadly
matched to expense inflation: in Hansard Europe, the charge
inflation is subject to a minimum increase of 5% per annum. The
correlation between expense inflation and charge inflation dampens
the impact of inflation on the embedded value results.
Inflation assumptions are as follows:
Inflation rates H1 2018 H1 2017
Expense inflation per annum 2.9% 2.6%
Charge inflation per annum - Hansard Europe 5.0% 5.0%
Charge inflation per annum - Hansard International - Year 1 2.4% 1.9%
Charge inflation per annum - Hansard International - Year 2 2.6% 2.4%
Charge inflation per annum - Hansard International - Year 3+ 2.9% 2.6%
The 5% charge inflation rate for Hansard Europe reflects the terms of the products. The three-year
stepped approach to charge inflation for Hansard International reflects the terms of the products,
trending towards a long-term inflation rate of 2.9% per annum.
Review of the European Embedded Value ("EEV") of Hansard Global
plc for the six-month period ended 31 December 2017
Our role
Deloitte MCS Limited has been engaged by Hansard Global plc to
act as Reviewing Actuaries in connection with results on an EEV
basis published in sections "European Embedded Value Information"
(pages 44 to 49) and "Notes to the European Embedded Value
Information" (page 50) within Hansard Global plc's Results for the
six-month period ended 31 December 2017.
Responsibilities
The EEV Information and the methodology and assumptions
underlying it is the sole responsibility of the directors of
Hansard Global plc. It has been prepared by the directors of
Hansard Global plc, and the calculations underlying the EEV
Information have been performed by Hansard Global plc.
Our limited review was conducted in accordance with generally
accepted actuarial practices and processes. It comprised a
combination of such reasonableness checks, analytical reviews and
checks of clerical accuracy as we considered necessary to provide
reasonable assurance that the EEV Information has been compiled
free of material error.
The EEV Information necessarily makes numerous assumptions with
respect to economic conditions, operating conditions, taxes, and
other matters, many of which are beyond the Group's control.
Although the assumptions used represent estimates which the
directors believe are together reasonable, actual experience in
future may vary from that assumed in the preparation of the EEV
Information, and any such variations may be material. Deviations
from assumed experience are normal and are to be expected.
The EEV does not purport to be a market valuation of the Group
and should not be interpreted in that manner since it does not
encompass all of the many factors that may bear upon a market
value. For example, it makes no allowance for the value of future
new business.
Opinion
On the basis of our limited review, nothing has come to our
attention to suggest that:
-- the methodology and assumptions used to prepare the EEV
Information do not comply in all material respects with the
European Embedded Values Principles set out by the CFO Forum in May
2004, and most recently extended in April 2016 (the "CFO Forum
Principles");
-- the EEV Information has not been compiled on the basis of the
methodology and assumptions and;
-- the EEV Information does not comply in all material respects
with the CFO Forum Principles.
Reliances and limitations
We have relied on data and information, including the value of
net assets, management accounting data and solvency information
supplied to us by the Group. Further, we have relied on the terms
of the contracts, as they have been reported to us, being
enforceable.
We have relied on the reported mathematical reserves, the
adequacy of those reserves, and of the methods and assumptions used
to determine them. We have assumed that all provisions made in the
IFRS financial statements for any other liabilities (whether
actual, contingent or potential) of whatever nature, are
appropriate.
We have also relied on information relating to the current and
historical operating experience of the Group's life insurance
business, including the results of experience investigations
relating to policy persistency, and expense analysis. In forming
our opinion, we have considered the assumptions used in the EEV
Information in the context of the reported results of those
investigations although we have not attempted to predict the impact
of potential future changes in competitive forces on the
assumptions.
Deloitte MCS Limited
21 February 2018
Deloitte MCS Limited. Registered office: Hill House, 1 Little
New Street, London EC4A 3TR, United Kingdom. Registered in England
& Wales with registered number 3311052.
Deloitte MCS Limited is a subsidiary of Deloitte LLP, the United
Kingdom member firm of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited ("DTTL"), a
UK private company limited by guarantee, whose member firms are
legally separate and independent entities. Please see
www.deloitte.co.uk/about for a detailed description of the legal
structure of DTTL and its member firms.
Member of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited
Contacts and Advisors
Registered Office Media Enquiries
Harbour Court Camarco
Lord Street 107 Cheapside
Box 192 London
Douglas EC2V 6DN
Isle of Man Tel: +44 (0)20 3757 4980
IM99 1QL
Tel: +44 (0)1624 688000
Fax: +44 (0)1624 688008
www.hansard.com
President Broker
Dr L S Polonsky, CBE Panmure Gordon (UK) Limited
Leonard.Polonsky@hansard.com One New Change
London
Non-executive Chairman EC4M 9AF
PPC Gregory Tel. +44 (0)20 7886 2500
Philip.Gregory@hansard.com
Financial Advisor Broker
Macquarie Capital (Europe) Limited Macquarie Capital (Europe) Limited
28 Ropemaker Street 28 Ropemaker Street
London London
EC2Y 9HD EC2Y 9HD
Tel: +44 (0)20 3037 2000 Tel: +44 (0)20 3037 2000
Independent Auditor Registrar
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLC Link Market Services (Isle of Man) Limited
Sixty Circular Road Clinch's House
Douglas Lord Street
Isle of Man Douglas
IM1 1SA Isle of Man
Tel: +44 (0)1624 689689 IM99 1RZ
Tel (UK): 0871 664 0300*
Tel: +44 (0)20 8639 3399
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Tel: +44 (0)20 7936 3000 BR3 4TU
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Tel: +44 (0)20 8639 3399
NB: 0871 Number - calls cost 12p per minute plus network extras. If you are outside the United
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Financial Calendar
Ex-dividend date for interim dividend 1 March 2018
Record date for interim dividend 2 March 2018
Payment date for interim dividend 10 April 2018
Third quarter trading update 10 May 2018
Announcement of fourth quarter new
business results 26 July 2018
Announcement of full year results 27 September 2018
This information is provided by RNS
The company news service from the London Stock Exchange
END
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