TIDMSECG
RNS Number : 3229C
SEC S.p.A
28 September 2018
SEC S.p.A.
("SEC", "the Company" or "the Group")
Unaudited interim results for the six months ended 30 June
2018
SEC spa (AIM: SECG), the international advocacy, strategy and PR
group, is pleased to announce its unaudited interim results for the
six months ended 30 June 2018.
Financial Highlights
-- Revenue up 13.4% at EUR 11.3m (H1 2017: EUR 10.0m)
-- Ebitda up 31.9% at EUR 888K (H1 2017: EUR 673K)
-- Net profit up 18% at EUR 507K (H1 2017: EUR 431K)
-- Net Financial Position EUR 1.1m (30 June 2017: EUR 1.6m)
Half Year Highlights
-- Revenue growth reflects organic growth of existing operations
(2.3%) and the inclusion of SEC Latam (former Newlink).
-- Ebitda growth 31.9% with like for like growth of 8.6% plus new acquisition.
-- Strong trading performances from Newington (UK), SEC and
Partners (Rome), Cambre Associates (Brussels) and Sec SPA
(Milan).
-- Acquisition strategy progressing as planned continuing with a
number of opportunities in negotiation and being strengthened by
recent Capital Increase proceeds.
-- AI (Artificial Intelligence) large investment in excess of
EUR1.2m already committed and under implementation
-- Common Group interface adoption for global internal communication within Group staff.
Post Period and Outlook
-- Management Committee expanded collaboration and activities
begin to produce positive effects Group wide.
-- CSO - Chief Sales Officer role implemented and team with
appropriate resources to expand Group reach to Global and
Multi-Country clients recruited
-- Management investment to boost value in strategic investment
in Porta Communications Plc, as largest shareholder continue.
-- Electoral round in EU may offer opportunities for one of the Group core services.
-- Strong and growing pipeline of business in all the countries in which SEC is represented.
-- Investment in AI development may contribute to future trading performances
Fiorenzo Tagliabue, CEO of SEC spa commented:
"As we anticipated SEC's path to increase its global footprint
while continuing to focus on a high standard of client services and
new business, are continuing in parallel.
We believe our subsidiaries continue to improve their
performances while we keep investing time and resources in fine
tuning their internal organization in order to improve the results
we produce for our clients. In the meantime we continue to focus on
the wellbeing of our personnel with training and career
opportunities which boost morale and challenge them to surpass
boundaries.
New business activities boosted by the referral to new clients
by satisfied clients is a fundamental asset we continue to benefit
from, and this is an increasing new strategic business
activity.
The newly created role of the CSO, for example, is a clear
signal of this approach.
The board of the Management Committee is working on a number of
interesting new projects aimed at growing our global reach,
improving our services with innovative approaches which will
contribute to generate increasing return of investment for our
clients. Further updates of which will be provided in due
course.
We believe the results in the first half of 2018 demonstrate SEC
is solidly improving its performance while continuing to commit
even greater management time and resources to develop an grow.
SEC's acquisition plan remains an important part of its
strategy, to achieve a consistent global market presence now, and
with our presence in EU countries almost completed increasingly we
are now targeting markets outside the EU with specific focus on
North and South America. The Far East and Middle East already
served through Porta partnership.
-- ends --
The information contained within this announcement is deemed to
constitute inside information as stipulated under the Market Abuse
Regulations (EU) No. 596/2014. Upon the publication of this
announcement, this inside information is now considered to be in
the public domain.
Enquiries:
SEC spa
Fiorenzo Tagliabue, CEO
Cesare Valli, COO
www.secglobalnetwork.com
+39 02 624999.46
WH Ireland (Nominated Adviser)
Katy Mitchell/Matthew Chan
+44 (0) 7917 442517
Joint Broker
Peterhouse Corporate Finance Limited,
Charles Goodfellow
Tel: +44 (0)20 74690930
SEC spa (Media Enquiries)
Cesare Valli, COO
+39 02 624999.1
valli@secrp.com
Notes to Editors
SEC spa is a fully integrated strategy, PR, advocacy group with
specialisms including corporate and marketing communication, public
affairs and lobbying, brand and creative communications.
The group has offices in Milan, Rome, Venice, Bari, Turin and
Catania in Italy; Brussels, Madrid, Berlin, Warsaw and London in
Europe; Bogotà in South America.
SEC spa corporate websites are:
www.secrp.com
www.secglobalnetwork.com
Chairman and CEO Review
The Company continues to make good progress in the first half of
2018, delivering a continued improvement in its performance,
resulting in increased revenues and profitability.
Organic growth was coupled with strategic investment to increase
the Group footprint and SEC's ability to serve clients in
additional locations. The cross referral of clients within the
network is increasingly reflecting the positive relations with
clients and the level of satisfaction and the willingness of
existing clients to use Group services in additional locations
and/or referring clients for new projects. We believe this is due
to efforts made particularly in Italy, Brussels, UK and Spain to
increase the pipeline and gain new clients. In the coming months we
expect this to continue in line with a new initiative the Senior
Management team are planning to implement.
Financial Overview
The interim results 2018 show a turnover of EUR 12.9m, more than
EUR 2 million more than same period in 2017.
Gross profit up to 12,4m more than 2,2m more than same period
2017.
Ebitda amounts to EUR 888,205 a solid 31.9% growth vs. same
period last year. Like for like Ebitda growth of 8.6% reflects the
improvement of operation performances before acquisitions.
We continue to keep Labour cost under tight control, pushing the
ratio of staff cost to fee income to 65%, which we believe reflects
the better use of human resources to boost return on investment. We
continue to work to improve this ratio and keep investing in
technology to help this trend.
Strategy Review
Since 2013 SEC has been working to establish a global
partnership with strong roots in Europe.
As far as our positioning is concerned, over the years we have
been focusing with increasing clarity on three main elements that
continue to be core of a distinctive proposition in the market:
- Entrepreneurship: we are building up the first ever network
made of entrepreneurs who keep running their local business while
contributing to shape our global strategy
- Flexibility: we always want to put the clients and their needs
on top. This is achieved through a mix of factors including the
absence of network exclusivity in all markets, proximity and local
touch, the development of management skills and tools to partner
with the client while delivering the output that is expected
- Reliability: to stick to promises and commitments we can
deliver, to build trust, based on quality performance, honest and
transparent attitude, and highest professional and ethical
standards
The group keeps pushing to accelerate its growth, both organic
basis and through acquisitions, in order to increase the turnover
level to continue to allow for a more balanced distribution of the
costs of staff structure and consequently to improve Group
margin.
The Management Committee, chaired by Tom Parker, has boosted
cooperation between various companies and we believe it is shaping
a common enterprise culture. We believe signs of the company global
culture and the level of cooperation is already clearly visible and
producing positive effects.
To further leverage Group expansion and synergies a new central
commercial function has been created to position SEC as a
challenger of larger established groups towards global or
multi-country clients. The new role of CSO - Chief Sales Officer -
has been created to position SEC towards those clients with those
needs and to present SEC as a possible compelling challenger.
We have already seen the growing trend of cross country
referrals which include in the first half 2018 the following:
Autogrill, Best and Fast Change, Energy Transition Commission, Falk
Renewable, Federlegno, Ikea, Marche Region, Tesla, Eco Hispanica
amongst the others.
Operational Overview
SEC spa (Milan)
Trading conditions in Italy, after a slightly positive 2017 with
the return to growth of Italian economy, have been slowing down due
to recent country elections and the delay in forming the new
Government coalition.
As a consequence, competition continues to be quite aggressive
especially on the price of services.
Despite this, SEC Milan has continued to perform quite
positively being able to generate over EUR1 m new business in
H1.
New wins and increasing assignments include clients such as
Shell, Ikea, Bombardier, Percassi, ACI (Italian Automobil Club),
UILDM, Atena, La Fenice Venice, Genova High Tech just to quote
some.
Additional assignments from existing clients such as Nestlè,
SEA, Findomestic, AIPB (Private Banking Association), WEC (World
Energy Council) among others. A particularly strong area of
business has been Issue and crisis management area with a growing
Corporate and Financial and Healthcare business
SEC's investment into Artificial Intelligence continue to
develop satisfactorily with new product and services now under
finalization. We look forward to updating the market in due
course.
SEC in Italy
Other companies in Italy have had a different performance. SEC
and partner, SEC's Rome based subsidiary which is focused mostly on
financial communication, has continued to perform highly positively
with a very good profit margin.
The other small businesses are in line with expectations. HIT
has improved and show a positive result with a major improvement
versus H1 2017.
New business activities have assured in excess of 300K in H1 and
pipeline in almost all above operation is reasonably strong.
Cambre Associates
On the financial side, the first two months of 2018 were a
hangover from 2017, a year in which Cambre lost some big clients.
Focus was on rebalancing fee income versus costs during the first
part of H1.
We have succeeded in significantly increasing the budgets of
several retained clients, including Tesla, BSA | The Software
Alliance and the International Association of Privacy
Professionals. We have also secured some big wins, including the
governments of Georgia and Morocco, and enjoyed promising new
business momentum that is bearing fruit in the third quarter. The
Company is performing profitably.
The outlook for the full year is positive, as we move to control
costs and see strong new business momentum, particularly in the
tech and energy sectors. Wins since July include Expedia, Ferrero,
Fertilizers Europe and the Port of Antwerp, with further
significant prospects in the pipeline. We note the need to go into
2019 with a compelling business plan for our healthcare practice,
given the question mark over future fee income in this challenging
sector.
ACH Cambre
From January 2018 ACHCambre won the following clients: Bergé
(car distribution, logistic); Bahri (Saudi Arabia maritime
transportation); Best & Fast Change (currency exchange);
Autogrill (restaurants); Acciona (Energy, Infrastructures, Real
State); KBL European Private Bankers; Brasil-Spain Chamber of
Commerce; Prosegur (Private Security, Cash Transportation, Alarms);
IFEMA (Madrid Exhibition Center); Averum Abogados (Law Firm); KOBO
by FNAC (eBooks). Those clients in addition of the existing clients
like Makro, Pernod-Ricard Wines, Edwards, Tork, Newell, Tetra-Pak,
John Deere, Spanish Cancer Association, etc. conformed a solid
Clients Portfolio.
ACH-Cambre's new Staff Members along the first half of 2018 have
strengthened our client service capabilities with José Sánchez Arce
as Deputy Director, with a degree in Journalism and an Executive
MBA, José has been Head of the Communication Office of the Ministry
of Defence until June 2018, an communication advisor in the Prime
Minister' Office from 2012 till 2017.
Alma Alonso as Social Media Manager; Alma has been previously
account supervisor in Ebolution (Digital Commerce) and Client
Service Executive in Carat.
Those incorporations in addition of the current staff we have
complete along 2017 make a stable and high professional team
composed now by 18 people.
In the second half of 2018, the outlook envisages a fierce
competition environment characterized by a strengthening of the
digital and social media areas of our competitors. ACH-Cambre is
doing a great effort in new business area and we are right now
competing in different pitches like the Embassy of Luxemburg, the
Embassy of Saudi Arabia, Mutuality for Coverage of Working
Accidents, etc. Confidence to meet 2018 budget is high.
The market Outlook for the Spanish economy has suddenly
deteriorated coinciding with the arrival of the new socialist
Government. With a weak support in the Parliament, the new Prime
Minister, Pedro Sánchez, needs the votes of the populist party
Podemos, his main ally, as well as the support of the Catalonian
independent parties. His first political initiatives are adding
political uncertainty to a complicated mandate. Analysts agree that
Mr. Sanchez will call early elections next year.
KOHL PR
Kohl PR is facing a difficult year in 2018 having lost a major
client. New business efforts have produced positive results with
the win of pharmaceutical company Merck, the Bjoern Schulz
Foundation that focuses on hospice care of children and young
people, the outdoor booking portal Pitchup.com and Transdev, one of
the leading private public transport companies, are examples for
new clients. Additional effort has to be made to re-balance the
situation.
The second half of the year includes several prospective new
clients including Heineken, the Association of Cyprus Banks,
Vorwerk or the German Federation of Food Law and Food Science.
Furthermore, Kohl PR is negotiating commercial partnership with an
agency focusing on marketing and digital communication with the
objective of a close cooperation that could boost business. 2018
will remain a difficult business year especially as some of the new
business prospect will not start before 2019.
In general, the German PR sector has developed into a volatile
market. Long term contracts are no longer the rule. Additionally,
the political and business environment did not develop as expected.
In particular it was disadvantageous for Kohl PR with its strong
focus on political consultancy the long delay til the new
government was established. Furthermore, the instability of the
ruling government under the leadership of Angela Merkel does not
support the economic sentiment. The industry criticizes a political
standstill in many fields which has also impacted on the
development of the PR sector.
Newington
Six months into 2018 and Newington looks to continue a period of
consolidation and innovation with steady growth predicted till the
end of the year. High quality clients work has been matched by a
list of new clients including: leisure group, Belmond; charity,
Save the Children; lawyers, Burges Salmon and Mischon de Reya,
Transport for London, the County Land and Business Association and
many others.
Newington has had major successes in 2018 delivering for its
clients, seeing its campaign for Pupaid, 'Lucy's Law' become
legislation and recognised by a Daily Mirror Special Award;
introduction of an energy price cap as a result of a campaign for
Octopus Energy, introduction and acclamation for client DPD's new
Drivers' Code, No 10 support for our work with charity 'Calm' and
recognition for Newington as Southwark's SME Business Excellence
Award winner. This has been backed up with top quality client work
across its entire client base.
Internally we have seen a major restructure with a new Corporate
Affairs Division launched led by new hire Michelle de Leo and
incorporating a new digital and design team. Naomi Harris has been
promoted to be Chief Operating Officer, giving a stronger central
function to the agency as we implement shared financial and client
management software. The Local and National Divisions have both
split into multiple practices, driving new business and maintaining
our excellence in delivery covering new specialisms such as:
transport and infrastructure, energy and the environment,
education, health and social care, legal and professional services,
financial services and property pr. On an international level
relationships within the SEC Global Group have strengthened
considerably leading to a stronger pipeline of international new
business prospects.
As our client Marc Abrahams of Pupaid says about Newington,
"Their insight and understanding of the political sphere is second
to none."
Martis Consulting (Poland)
Despite growing GDP, economic indicators improvement and
declining unemployment rate, the PR service market is still very
competitive. Global network agencies like MSL Group, 24/7
Communications, and Hill & Knowlton, providing services for the
world brands, are prevailing on the market. The conventional PR
market in Poland evolves into integrated marketing communication,
which aims to support the sales. Martis Consulting is specialized
in providing services for the companies listed on the Warsaw Stock
Exchange, which is experiencing hard times, even though there is
boom on the foreign markets. The main index WIG20 lost 13% in H1,
and profits of all of the companies from the index fell by 6%
compared to the same period of 2017. We perceive that the situation
is even worse in the SME sector which is strongly affected by the
financial scandal of GetBack, which broke out at the end of April
2018. Estimated investors' and shareholders' losses amounted to
several billion PLN. On the other hand the financial crisis brought
new clients to the company - 2 medium-sized banks and a big
investment fund company. In H2 2018 we expect the improvement in
the results due to higher margin of new contracts together with
keeping the staff cost on the stable level. Due to the adoption of
the Employee Pension Plan Act, which will come into force in July
2019, we believe the capital market should revive in the next few
years, because of the annual injections of about 12 billion PLN. It
should have a positive influence on the growth of agency's turnover
and financial results in the future.
Sec Latam (former Newlink)
SecLatam delivered outstanding top line growth during H1, as
result of the successful renewal of existing contracts and the
generation of new business in Corporate Affairs and Brand Public
Relations units. The new clients incorporated in SecLatam's
portfolio include multinationals such as Colgate, AB InBev,
Prosegur and Khiron, as well as important local companies like
Alpina. On the other hand, EBITDA was aligned with budget and
showing positive results despite one-off expenses.
SecLatam changed its office location at the beginning of the
year, improving its working environment with favourable response
from employees and clients. In parallel, the brand SecLatam was
successfully launched in the market with coverage in key media.
The positive trend in Colombia is expected to continue in H2,
with the capture of the new clients and special projects to be led
by the Creative, Experience, Design and Digital teams. In terms of
EBITDA results, SecLatam is expected to reach budget target.
Opportunities mainly focused in Chile and Perú will be analysed and
assessed looking to strengthen the position of the Group in the
Region; in addition, efforts will be made to win pan regional
accounts (North, Central & South America).
Luigi Roth Fiorenzo Tagliabue
Chairman Chief Executive Officer
FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF SEC S.P.A.
FOR THE SIX MONTHSED 30 JUNE 2017
Consolidated income statement
Continuing Operations Note Six months Six months
ended ended
2017 2018
EUR'000 EUR'000
Revenue 5 10,024 11,371
-------------------------------------------------- ----- ---------------------------- ---------------------------
Employees expenses 6 (5,637) (6,075)
Service costs 7 (3,420 (4,100)
Depreciation & amortization 8 (76) (106)
Other operating income and charges 9 25 170
Other operating costs 10 (325) (480)
-------------------------------------------------- ----- ---------------------------- ---------------------------
Profit from operations 591 780
Finance income and expense 11 (38) (80)
-------------------------------------------------- ----- ---------------------------- ---------------------------
Profit before taxation 553 700
Taxation 12 (123) (193)
-------------------------------------------------- ----- ---------------------------- ---------------------------
Profit for the period 430 507
Profit for the period attributable to
owners of the company 218 277
Non-controlling interest 212 230
-------------------------------------------------- ----- ---------------------------- ---------------------------
Profit for the period 430 507
Earnings per share attributable to the equity
holders of the Company
-------------------------------------------------- ----- ---------------------------- ---------------------------
Basic, per share 28 0.018 0.021
Diluted, per share 0.017 0.020
Consolidated statement of comprehensive income
Continuing Operations Six months Six months
ended ended
2017 2018
EUR'000 EUR'000
Profit for the period 430 507
Items that may be subsequently reclassified to profit or loss:
Gain /(loss) on exchange rates
Gain/(loss) on revaluation of available for sale investments 63 (41)
Gain /(loss) on exchange rates (19) (28)
Items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss:
Actuarial gain/(loss) on defined benefit pension plans 39 45
------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------- -----------
Total comprehensive income for the year 513 483
Total comprehensive income for the year attributable to:
Owners of the Company 212 259
Non-controlling interest 301 224
------------------------------------------------------------------ ----------- -----------
Net Group comprehensive income for the year 513 483
Consolidated statement of financial position
Note Six months Six months
ended ended
2017 2018
EUR'000 EUR'000
Intangible assets 13 6,998 9,409
Tangible assets 14 414 430
Investments 15 7 7
Other financial assets 16 10 19
Other assets 17 738 978
--------------------------------------- -------- ------------------- ---------------------
Non-current assets 8,167 10,843
Trade receivables 18 8,235 8,221
Other receivables 19 918 1,346
Financial investments 20 1,075 4,544
Cash and cash equivalents 21 5,085 4.522
--------------------------------------- -------- ------------------- ---------------------
Current assets 15,313 18,633
Total assets 23,480 29,476
--------------------------------------- -------- ------------------- ---------------------
Trade payables 22 2,162 2,390
Borrowings 23 934 2,312
Other payables 24 2,815 3,429
Provisions 25 612 1,707
--------------------------------------- -------- ------------------- ---------------------
Current liabilities 6,523 9,838
--------------------------------------- -------- ------------------- ---------------------
Employee benefits 26 1,483 1,815
Borrowings 23 3,670 5,655
Other non-current liabilities 27 304 510
--------------------------------------- -------- ------------------- ---------------------
Non-current liabilities 5,457 7,980
Total liabilities 11,980 17,818
--------------------------------------- -------- ------------------- ---------------------
Net assets 11,500 11,658
--------------------------------------- -------- ------------------- ---------------------
Share capital 28 1,222 1.222
Reserves 29 7,978 8,148
Profit of the year 218 277
Equity attributable to equity holders
Of the Company 9.418 9,647
Equity non-controlling interests 30 2,082 2,011
--------------------------------------- -------- ------------------- ---------------------
Total equity 11,500 11,658
--------------------------------------- -------- ------------------- ---------------------
Total equity and liabilities 23,480 29,476
--------------------------------------- -------- ------------------- ---------------------
Consolidated cash flow statement
Six monthss Six months
ended ended
2017 2018
EUR'000 EUR'000
Operating activities
----------------------------------------------------- ------------ -----------
Profit for the year 431 507
Adjusted for:
Corporation tax 123 193
Net interest 38 80
Depreciation tangible assets 50 80
Amortization intangible assets 26 26
(Increase)/Decrease in trade and other receivables (1,191) 16
Increase/(Decrease) in trade and other payables 418 (647)
lncrease/(Decrease) in Other provisions (651) (383)
Increase/(Decrease) in Employees benefits 28 20
Changes in working capital:
Cash generated from operations (728) 618
----------------------------------------------------- ------------ -----------
Income tax paid (123) (367)
----------------------------------------------------- ------------ -----------
Net cash flow from operating activities (851) 251
----------------------------------------------------- ------------ -----------
Investing activities
----------------------------------------------------- ------------ -----------
(Purchase)/sale tangible assets (12) (100)
(Purchase)/sale of intangibles assets (123) (32)
Changes in Goodwill (1,197) -
Acquisitions and earn-outs (9) (258)
Change in other assets 218 51
----------------------------------------------------- ------------ -----------
Net cash used in investing activities (1,123) (338)
----------------------------------------------------- ------------ -----------
Financing activities
----------------------------------------------------- ------------ -----------
Bank loans drawdown/repayments 348 288
Interest paid (38) (80)
Share issues - -
Other increase /(decrease) in equity 19 269
Net cash used in financing activities 329 (61)
----------------------------------------------------- ------------ -----------
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents 1,645 (149)
----------------------------------------------------- ------------ -----------
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 7.825 4,672
----------------------------------------------------- ------------ -----------
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of period 6,180 4,523
----------------------------------------------------- ------------ -----------
Corporate information
SEC S.p.A. (the "Company") was incorporated in March 1989 and is
based in Milan. The registered office and principal executive
office of SEC S.p.A. is located at Via Panfilo Castaldi, 11, Milan
20100.
The principal business of the Group is a comprehensive range of
Public relations, advocacy, communications and public affairs
services provided to national and multinational clients.
The subsidiaries of the Company included in the consolidated
financial information, are as follows:
Company Key Location SEC shareholdings
as of June 30 2018
Hit S.r.l. HIT Milan (Italy) 57.71%
------- ------------------------ --------------------
Sec & Associati S.r.l. SEC-A Turin (Italy) 51.00%
------- ------------------------ --------------------
Sec Mediterranea S.r.l. MED Bari (Italy) 51.00%
------- ------------------------ --------------------
Della Silva Communication Consulting S.r.l DS Milan (Italy) 51.00%
------- ------------------------ --------------------
Curious Design S.r.l. CUR Milan (Italy) 75.00%
------- ------------------------ --------------------
Cambre Associates SA CAM Brussels (Belgium) 76.00%
------- ------------------------ --------------------
ACH Cambre SL ACH Madrid (Spain) 51.00%
------- ------------------------ --------------------
Sec and Partners S.r.l. SEC-P Rome (Italy) 50.50%
------- ------------------------ --------------------
Kohl PR & Partners GMBH KOHL Berlin (Germany) 75.00%
------- ------------------------ --------------------
Newington Communications LTD NEW London (UK) 60.00%
------- ------------------------ --------------------
Martis Consulting Sp. z o. o. MAR Warsaw (PL) 60,00%
------- ------------------------ --------------------
SEC Latam Comunicaciones Estrategica SAS NWC Bogotà (Colombia) 51,00%
------- ------------------------ --------------------
The acquisitions completed during the two six months ended 30
June 2018 were as follows:
-- In April 2017: Martis Consulting Sp. Z,o,o
-- In December 2017: Newlink Comunicaciones Estrategica SAS formerly renamed into SEC Latam
Accounting policies
a. Basis of preparation
The principal accounting policies adopted in the preparation of
the financial information are set out below. The policies have been
consistently applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise
stated.
The financial information has been prepared in accordance with
International Financial Reporting Standards and International
Accounting Standards and Interpretations (collectively "IFRSs")
issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and
adopted by the European Union ("adopted IFRSs"). The Group adopted
IFRS for the first time for the period from 1 January 2013.
The financial information has been prepared under the historical
cost convention, except for the "financial instruments" that have
been measured at fair value.
The functional currency of the Group is Euro (EUR), and all
amounts are presented in functional currency.
a (bis). Translation of the Financial Statements of foreign
companies
-- The Group records transactions denominated in foreign
currency in accordance with IAS 21 - The Effect of Changes in
Foreign Exchange Rates. The results and financial position of all
the Group entities that have a functional currency different from
the presentation currency are translated into the presentation
currency as follows:
-- Assets and liabilities for each consolidated statement of
financial position presented are translated at the closing rate at
the date of that consolidated statement of financial position;
-- Income and expenses for each consolidated statement of income
are translated at average exchange rates.
-- All resulting exchange differences are recognized in other comprehensive income.
-- Goodwill and fair value adjustments arising from the
acquisition of a foreign entity are treated as assets and
liabilities of the foreign entity and translated at the closing
rate.
-- The final exchange rate of Euro vs. Great Britain Pound used
on Newington Communication LTD as of 30 June 2018 is 0,88605; the
one on Martis is 3,3732; the one on SEC Latam 0,000290904.
b. New standards, interpretations and amendments not yet
effective
At the date of this financial information, certain new
standards, amendments and interpretations to existing standards
have been published but are not yet effective, and have not been
adopted early by the SEC Group. These are listed below:
-- IFRS 9: Financial Instruments (effective 1 January 2018)
-- IFRS 15 standards and clarifications: Revenue from Contracts
with Customers (effective 1 January 2018)
-- IFRS 16: Leases (effective 1 January 2019)
-- Amendments to IAS 12: Recognition of Deferred Tax Assets for
Unrealised Losses (effective 1 January 2017)
-- Amendments to IAS 7: disclosure initiative (effective 1 January 2017)
-- Amendments to IFRS 12: Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities (effective 1 January 2017)
-- Amendments to IFRS 1 and IAS 28: First-time Adoption of
International Financial Reporting Standards and Investments in
Associates and Joint Ventures (effective 1 January 2018)
-- Amendments to IFRS 2: Classification and Measurement of
Share-based Payment Transactions (effective 1 January 2018)
-- Amendments to IFRS 4: Applying IFRS 9 Financial Instruments
with IFRS 4 Insurance Contracts (effective 1 January 2018)
-- IFRIC interpretation 22: Foreign Currency Transactions and
Advance Consideration (effective 1 January 2018)
-- Amendments to IAS 40: Transfers of Investment Property (effective 1 January 2018)
The adoption of these standards, interpretations and amendments
are not expected to have a material impact on SEC Group in the
period they are applied.
-- IFRIC interpretation 23: Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments (effective 1 January 2019)
-- Amendments to IFRS 9 Financial Investments and to IAS 28
Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures (clarifications on how
to combine IFRS 9 and IAS 28)
-- Amendments to IAS 12 Income Taxes, IAS 23 Borrowing Costs,
IFRS 3 Business Combination and to IFRS 11 Joint arrangements
(effective 1 January 2019)
-- Amendment to IAS 19 Employees Benefits (effective 1 January 2019)
c. Going Concern
The directors are required to consider whether it is appropriate
to prepare the financial statements on the basis that the Group is
a going concern. As part of its normal business practice, the Group
prepares annual plans and directors believe that the Group has
adequate resources for the future. Therefore, the Group continues
to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the financial
information.
d. Basis of consolidation
A company is classified as a subsidiary when the SEC Group has
the following:
-- power over the investee;
-- exposure, or rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the investee; and
-- the ability to use its power over the investee to affect the
amount of the investor's returns.
-- The financial information presents the results of the company
and its subsidiary undertakings as if they formed a single entity.
Intercompany transactions and balances between Group companies are
therefore eliminated in full.
-- The financial information includes the results of the Company
and its subsidiary undertakings made up to the same accounting
date. All intra-Group balances, transactions, income and expenses
are eliminated in full on consolidation.
e. Business combinations
The results of subsidiary undertakings acquired during the
period are included from the consolidated income statement from the
effective date of acquisition.
Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition
method. The cost of an acquisition is measured as the aggregate of
the consideration transferred, measured at fair value at the date
of acquisition, and the amount of any non-controlling interest in
the acquired entity.
Non-controlling interest are initially measured at the
non-controlling interests' proportionate share of the recognized
amounts of the acquiree's identifiable net assets. Acquisitions
costs incurred are expensed and included in administrative expenses
except where they relate to the issue of debt or equity instruments
in connection with the acquisition.
f. Segment reporting
Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the
internal reporting provided to the chief operating decision maker.
The chief operating decision maker has been identified as the board
of directors that makes strategic decisions.
The Board considers that SEC Group's protect activity
constitutes one operating and one reporting segment, as defined
under IFRS 8. Management reviews the performance of the SEC Group
by reference to total result against Budget.
Services provided by Group entities located in each geography
are as follows:
Six months ended Six months ended
30 June 2017 30 June 2018
EUR'000 % EUR'000 %
Italy 4,914 49% 5,123 45%
United Kingdom 2,020 20% 2,237 20%
Belgium 1,785 18% 1,738 15%
Colombia - - 1,117 10%
Poland 236 2% 559 5%
Spain 665 7% 412 3%
Germany 431 4% 185 2%
Total revenue 10,024 100% 11,371 100%
================= ===== =========== ======
g. Revenue
Revenue is recognized to the extent that it is probable that
economic benefits will flow to the Group and the revenue can be
reliably measured. Revenue represents the fees derived from the
services provided to and invoiced to clients and is reported net of
discounts, VAT and other taxes.
Revenue is recognized in the period in which the service is
performed, in accordance with the terms of the contractual
arrangements. Income billed in advance of the performance of the
service is deferred and recognized in the income statement when the
service takes place. Income in respect of work carried out but not
billed at period end is accrued.
Costs incurred with external suppliers on behalf of the clients
are excluded from revenue.
h. Intangibles Assets
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of fair value attributed to
investments in businesses and subsidiary under taking over the fair
value of the identifiable net assets, liabilities and contingent
liabilities acquired. Goodwill on acquisition of an entity is
included in intangible assets.
Goodwill has indefinite useful life and therefore not amortized.
Impairment reviews are undertaken annually or more frequently if
events or changes in circumstances indicate a potential impairment.
Any impairment in carrying value is recognized as an expense and is
not subsequently reversed.
The valuation of the CGUs for goodwill impairment testing is
prepared on a discounted cash flow basis at year end.
Other
Externally acquired intangible assets are initially recognized
cost and subsequently amortized on a straight-line basis over their
useful economic lives. Licenses are amortized over the term of the
license agreement.
i. Tangible assets
Property, furniture and equipment are initially recognized at
cost and subsequently stated at cost less accumulated depreciation
and, where appropriate, impairment losses.
Depreciation is provided on all items of property and equipment
so as to write off their carrying value, less its residual value,
over their expected useful economic lives. It is provided at the
following rates:
-- Furniture and machinery 12%
-- Office equipment 20%
-- Computer equipment 20%
The assets residual values and useful lives are reviewed, and
adjusted if appropriate, at the end of each reporting period. An
asset carrying amount is written down immediately to its
recoverable amount if the asset's carrying value is greater than
its estimated recoverable amount.
Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing the
proceeds with the carrying amount and are recognized within "other
operating income and changes".
j. Investments
Investments included in non-current assets are stated at cost
less any impairment charges.
k. Financial assets
The Group classifies its financial assets into one of the
categories discussed below, depending on the purpose for which the
asset was acquired. The Group has not classified any of its
financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, as available
for sale or held to maturity except for financial investments.
Financial investment at fair value
IFRS 13 sets out the framework for determining the measurement
of fair value and the disclosure of information relating to fair
value measurement, when fair value measurements are
required/used.
IFRS 13 requires certain disclosures which require the
classification of assets and liabilities measured at fair value
using a fair value hierarchy that reflects the significance of the
inputs used in making the fair value measurement.
The fair value used for evaluating the financial investments are
based on quoted prices in active market (level 1). The Group has
estimated relevant fair values on the basis of publicly available
information from outside sources.
Other investments are designated as 'available for sale' and are
shown at fair value with any movements in fair value taken to
equity. On disposal, the cumulative gain or loss previously
recognized in equity is included in the profit or loss for the
year.
The fair values of the primary financial assets and liabilities
of the company together with their carrying values are as
follows:
Six months Six months
ended ended
30 June 2017 30 June 2018
EUR'000 EUR'000
----------------------------- ---- ------------------ ------------------
Carrying Fair Carrying Fair
value value value value
Financial assets
Trade and other receivables 9,153 9,153 9,568 9,568
Financial investments 1,075 1,075 4,544 4,544
Cash and cash equivalents 5,085 5,085 4,522 4,522
Financial liabilities
Trade and other payables 4,997 4,997 5,799 5,799
Financial liabilities 4,604 4,604 8,033 8,033
Trade and other receivables
These assets are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or
determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market. They
arise principally through the provision of services to customers
(e.g. trade receivables), but also incorporate other types of
contractual monetary asset. They are initially recognized at fair
value plus transaction costs that are directly attributable to
their acquisition or issue, and are subsequently carried at
amortized cost using the effective interest rate method, less
provision for bad debts and doubtful account.
Impairment provisions are recognized when there is objective
evidence (such as significant financial difficulties on the part of
the counterparty or default or significant delay in payment) that
the Group will be unable to collect all of the amounts due under
the terms receivable, the amount of such a provision being the
difference between the net carrying amount and the present value of
the future expected cash flows associated with the impaired
receivable.
For trade receivables, which are reported net, such bad debt
provisions are recorded in a separate allowance account with the
loss being recognized within other operating costs in the
Consolidated income statement. On confirmation that the trade
receivable will not be collectable, the gross carrying value of the
asset is written off against the associated provision.
l. Cash and equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash, deposits held at call
with banks and other short-term liquid investments with an original
maturity of up to three months or less. In the consolidated
statement of financial position, bank over draft are shown within
borrowings in current liabilities.
m. Financial liabilities
Financial liabilities comprise loans and trade and other
payables, which are initially recognized at fair value and
subsequently carried at amortized cost using the effective interest
method. The interest element of the borrowings and short-term
financial liabilities is expensed over the repayment period at a
constant rate. In accordance with IAS 39 Financial Instruments:
"Recognition and Measurement, a financial liability of the Group is
only released to the consolidated income statement when the
underlying legal obligation is extinguished".
n. Operating leases
Assets leased under operating leases are not recorded in the
statement of financial position. Rental payments are charged
directly to the income statement on a straight-line basis.
o. Share capital
SEC S.p.A.'s ordinary shares are classified as equity
instruments.
p. Dividends
Dividends are recognized when they become legally payable, which
is when they are approved for distribution. In the case of interim
dividends to equity shareholders, this is when declared by the
directors and paid.
q. Taxation
Income tax for each period comprises current and deferred
tax.
The current tax is based upon the taxable profit for the year
together with adjustments, where necessary, in respect of prior
periods, and calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or
substantively enacted at the end of the financial year. Italian
Corporate entities are subject to a corporate income tax (IRES) and
to a regional production tax (IRAP).
Current tax is recognized in the consolidated income statement,
except to the extent that it relates to items recognized in other
comprehensive income or directly in equity.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized where the
carrying amount of an asset or liability in the consolidated
statement of financial position differs from its tax base.
Recognition of deferred tax assets is restricted to those
instances where it is probable that taxable profit will be
available against which the difference can be utilized.
The amount of the asset or liability is determined using tax
rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the
reporting date and are expected to apply when the deferred tax
liabilities/assets are settled/recovered.
r. Employee benefits
The only form of post-employment benefit provided to staff by
Group companies is represented by Staff Termination Benefits "TFR".
In light of the amendments made to the relevant regulations by the
"2007 Finance Act" (law no. 296 of 27 December 2006), with regard
to enterprises with more than 50 employees, staff termination
benefits are accounted for in accordance with the following
rules:
1. for defined benefit plans, as regards the portion of staff
termination benefits accrued as at 31 December 2006, through
actuarial calculations which do not include the item related to
future salary increases;
2. for defined contribution plans, as regards the portion of
staff termination benefits accrued from 1 January 2007, both in
case of election of supplementary pension scheme, and in the event
of allocation to the INPS Treasury Fund.
Staff termination benefits for Group companies with fewer than
50 employees are recognized in accordance with the regulations for
defined benefit plans in accordance with IAS 19; liabilities are
measured on an actuarial basis using the projected unit method and
discounted at a rate equivalent to the current rate of return on a
high-quality corporate bond of equivalent currency and term to the
plan liabilities.
s. Provisions
Provisions comprise liabilities where there is uncertainty about
the timing of settlement, but where a reliable estimate can be made
of the amount.
3. Critical accounting estimates and judgements
SEC Group makes certain estimates and assumptions regarding the
future. Estimates and judgements are continually evaluated based on
historical experience and other factors, including expectations of
future events that are believed to be reasonable under the
circumstances. In the future, actual experience may differ from
these estimates and assumptions. The estimates and assumptions that
have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the
carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next
financial year are discussed below.
Useful lives of depreciable assets
Useful lives of depreciable assets are based on the expected
utilization of each asset. Changes to estimates can result in
significant variations in the carrying value and amounts charged to
the Statement of Comprehensive Income in specific periods.
Fair value measurements and valuation processes
Some of the Group's assets and liabilities are measured at fair
value for financial reporting purposes. In estimating the fair
value of an asset or a liability, SEC Group uses market observable
data to the extent it is available.
Provision for doubtful debts
Management performs an assessment of the recoverability of
debtors when evidence arises that demonstrates the collection is
uncertain. Management periodically reassesses the adequacy of the
allowance for doubtful debts in conjunction with its credit policy
and discussions with each specific customer. Judgement is applied
at the point where recoverability is deemed uncertain and thus when
a provision is to be recognized.
Employee benefits
For actuarial assumptions on severance indemnity refer to note
26.
Impairment of Goodwill
Disclosure included in note 2 (h).
4. Financial instruments - risk management
The Board has overall responsibility for the determination of
the Group's risk management objectives and policies. The overall
objective of the Board is to set policies that seek to reduce risk
as far as possible without unduly affecting the Group's
competitiveness and flexibility. All funding requirements and
financial risks are managed based on policies and procedures
adopted by the Board of Directors. The Group does not currently use
derivative financial instruments and does not issue or use
financial instruments of a speculative nature.
Through its operations SEC Group is exposed to the following
financial risks:
a. Credit risk
b. Market price risk
c. Fair value and cash flow interest rate risk
d. Liquidity risk
Principal financial instruments
The principal financial instruments used by Sec Group, from
which financial instrument risk arises, include:
-- trade and other receivables;
-- cash and cash equivalents;
-- trade and other payables.
This note describes Sec Group's objectives, policies and
processes for managing those risks and the methods used to measure
them. Further quantitative information in respect of these risks is
presented throughout these financial statements. There have been no
substantive changes in Sec Group's exposure to financial instrument
risks, its objectives, policies and processes for managing those
risks or the methods used to measure them from previous periods
unless otherwise stated in this note.
a. Credit risk
Credit risk is the risk of financial loss to SEC Group if a
customer or a counterparty to a financial instrument fails to meet
its contractual obligations. The Company is mainly exposed to
credit risk from credit sales. Sec Group has trade receivables of
EUR 8,221,000 (2017: EUR8,234,000) net of any write-off and
allowance for doubtful receivables.
As at 30 June 2018, the Group had amounts due from ten major
customers amounting to 16 per cent. of the trade receivables
balance.
Sec Group is exposed to credit risk in respect of these balances
such that, if one or more of the customers encounters financial
difficulties, this could materially and adversely affect the Sec
Group financial results.
Sec Group attempts to mitigate credit risk by assessing the
credit rating of new costumers prior to entering into contracts and
by entering contracts with costumers with agreed credit terms.
Credit risk also arises from cash and cash equivalents and
deposits with banks and financial institutions. Sec Group does not
enter into derivatives to manage credit risk.
The Directors are unaware of any factors affecting the
recoverability of outstanding balances at 30 June 2018 and
consequently no further provisions have been made for bad and
doubtful debts.
b. Market risk
Market risk arises from SEC Group's use of interest bearing,
tradable. It is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows
of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in
interest rates (interest rate risk) or other market factors (i.e.
price risk).
c. Fair value and cash flow interest rate risk
Sec Group has previously been funded through borrowings from a
UBS (Italy) S.p.A., Deutsche Bank S.p.A. and Unicredit Banca S.p.A.
Sec Group obtained the following loans:
1. UBS (Italy) S.p.A. EUR 1,762,000 during the year ended 31
December 2013 at an interest rate of Euribor 12 month plus a margin
of 1.25 per cent as Revolving credit facility open ended.
2. Deutsche Bank S.p.A. EUR 1,000,000 at an interest rate of
1-month Euribor plus a margin of 1,20 per cent. On amortizing basis
with monthly basis instalment between July 2015 and June 2019.
3. Unicredit S.p.A, EUR 30,000, at an interest rate of 4,1 per
cent payable in monthly instalment between February 2015 and
February 2020.
4. Unicredit S.p.A, EUR1.000.000 at an interest rate of 1.2%
payable every six months between June 2016 and December 2020
5. BPM Banca Popolare di Milano EUR 1.000.000 at an interest
rate of 1,1% payable in monthly instalments between February 2016
and February 2020.
6. Natwest GBP 100.000 at an interest rate of 4.69% payable in
monthly instalments between October 2016 and October 2019
7. UBS (Italy) S.p.A EUR 1.000.000 at an interest rate of
1-month Euribor plus a margin of 1,00 per cent (minimum rate is
margin when EURIBOR+1% becomes negative), on amortizing basis with
monthly basis instalment between March 2017 and February 2020
8. Unicredit S.p.A., EUR 3.500.000 at an interest rate of
Euribor 3 months * 365/360 (1.7%-0.336) payable every three months
between April 2018 and July 2022
9. Banca Carige S.p.A., EUR 1.000.000 at a fix interest rate of
1,2% payable every six months starting January 2018 and ending June
2021
d. Liquidity risk
Sec Group's policy is to ensure that it will always have
sufficient cash to allow it to meet its liabilities when they
become due. To achieve this aim, Sec Group finances its operations
through a mix of equity and borrowings. Sec Group's objective is to
provide funding for future growth and achieve a balance between
continuity and flexibility through its bank facilities and future
intergroup loans.
The Board receives cash flow projections on a regular basis as
well as information regarding cash balances. At the end of the
financial year, these projections indicated that Sec Group is
expected to have sufficient liquid resources to meet its
obligations under all reasonably expected circumstances.
Capital management
SEC Group monitors capital, which is made up of share capital,
retained earnings and other reserves.
SEC Group's objectives when maintaining capital are:
-- to safeguard the entity's ability to continue as a going
concern, so that it can continue to provide returns for
shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders; and
-- to provide an adequate return to shareholders by pricing
services commensurately with the level of risk.
SEC Group sets the amount of capital it requires in proportion
to risk. Sec Group manages its capital structure and makes
adjustments to it in the light of changes in economic conditions
and the risk characteristics of the underlying assets. In order to
maintain or adjust the capital structure, SEC may adjust the amount
of dividends paid to shareholders, return capital to shareholders,
issue new shares or sell assets to reduce debt.
5. Revenue
Six months Six months ended
ended 30 June 2018
30 June 2017 EUR'000
EUR'000
Revenue of
services 10,024 11.371
-------------- -------------- -----------------
Total 10,024 11,371
============== =================
Revenues are primarily generated by a comprehensive range of
communications, relations and public affairs services provided to
national and multinational clients.
Revenues for services are composed by: public relation
activities for EUR 5,522,000; (2017: EUR 6,930,000) advocacy
activities for EUR 4,603,000; (2017: EUR 2,348,000) and integrated
services of EUR 1,246,000; (2017: EUR 746,000).
6. Employees expenses
-
Six months ended Six months ended
30 June 2017 30 June 2018
EUR'000 EUR'000
Salaries 4,482 4,918
Social contributions 887 904
Severance indemnity 150 239
Other costs 118 14
-------------------------- ----------------- -----------------
Total employee expenses 5,637 6,075
================= =================
7. Service costs
Six months ended Six months ended
30 June 2017 30 June 2017
EUR'000 EUR'000
Consulting 522 681
Internal Consulting & Directors 703 948
Overheads 592 834
Rent/Lease 505 566
Services 1,098 1,071
----------------------------------- ----------------- -----------------
Total service costs 3,420 4,100
===================== =================
Overheads principally comprise costs incurred with
subcontractors in order to manage extraordinary workload activity
not directly provided internally. Services principally comprise
marketing, advertising and other services incurred by the Group in
its operating activities for EUR 613,000 (EUR744.000 in 2017) and
other amounts are related to phone costs, travel expenses, office
maintenance expenses, freight costs, car expanses and bank
charges.
8. Depreciations and amortizations
Six months ended Six months ended
30 June 2017 30 June 2018
EUR'000 EUR'000
Amortization of intangibles 26 26
Depreciation of tangible assets 50 80
--------------------------------------------- ----------------- -----------------
Total depreciation and amortization 76 106
================= =================
9. Other operating income and charges
Six months ended Six months ended
30 June 2017 30 June 2018
EUR'000 EUR'000
Other Charges - -2
Other Income 25 172
-------------------------------------------- ----------------- -----------------
Total other operating income and charges 25 170
================= =================
Other operating income and expenses in 2016 and 2017 are mainly
generated by non-recurring adjustments and miscellaneous.
10. Other operating Costs
Six months ended Six months ended
30 June 2017 30 June 2018
EUR'000 EUR'000
Bad debts allowance 6 2
Impairment of investments - -
Tax local 26 43
Others 293 435
------------------------------ --------------------- -----------------
Total other operating costs 160 480
================= =================
Other costs primarily include the purchase of goods and
materials for managing events; the remaining costs comprise
subscriptions, magazines, books and newspapers, consumption of
materials.
11. Finance income and expense
Financial income Six months ended Six months ended
30 June 2017 30 June 2018
EUR'000 EUR'000
--------------------------------- ----------------- -----------------
Interest income 8 1
----------------------------------- ----------------- -----------------
Finance income 8 1
----------------------------------- ----------------- -----------------
Financial expenses
Interest expense (46) (76)
Other expenses - (5)
----------------------------------- ----------------- -----------------
Finance expenses (46) (81)
----------------------------------- ----------------- -----------------
Net Finance income and expense (38) (80)
================= =================
12. Taxation
Six months ended Six months ended
30 June 2017 30 June 2017
EUR'000 EUR'000
Current tax expense 75 199
Deferred tax income 48 (6)
--------------------------- ----------------- -----------------
Total income tax expense 123 193
================= =================
2016 Applicable tax rates (Italy)
The SEC Group's activities are both in Italy and abroad (Spain,
Germany, Belgium, United Kingdom, Poland). Activities within Italy
are subject to two corporate taxation regimes:
-- IRES is the state tax which at 24 per cent. of taxable income.
-- IRAP is a regional income tax, for which the standard rate is
3.9 per cent., with certain local variations permitted.
13. Intangible assets
-
Licenses Goodwill Total
COST EUR'000 EUR'000 EUR'000
----------------- --------- -------
At 1 January 2017 161 5,614 5,775
Additions 124 1,196 1,320
At 30 June 2017 285 6,810 7,095
AMORTISATION
--------------- ------------------------------------ ---------------
At 1 January 2017 (72) - (72)
Charge for the year (25) --- (25)
--------------- ------------------------------------ ---------------
At 30 June 2017 (97) - (97)
--------------- ------------------------------------ ---------------
NET BOOK VALUE
--------------- ------------------------------------ ---------------
At 30 June 2017 188 6,810 6,998
=============== ==================================== ===============
COST EUR'000 EUR'000 EUR'000
---------------- ------- -------
At 1 January 2018 321 9,205 9,526
Additions 32 - 32
At 30 June 2018 353 9,205 9,558
AMORTISATION
---------------- ------------------------------------ ----------------
At 1 January 2018 (124) - (124)
Charge for the year (25) --- (25)
---------------- ------------------------------------ ----------------
At 30 June 2018 (149) - (149)
---------------- ------------------------------------ ----------------
NET BOOK VALUE
---------------- ------------------------------------ ----------------
At 30 June 2018 204 9,205 9,409
================ ==================================== ================
Additions in Goodwill over 2017 period are generated as
follows:
-- In 2017, EUR 1,196.000 from acquisition Martis Consulting Sp. Z,o,o,
14. Tangible assets
Leasehold improvements Equipment Furniture and fittings Total
EUR'000 EUR'000 EUR'000 EUR'000
COST
--------------------- ----------------------- ---------- ----------------------- ----------
At 1 January 2017 363 136 660 1,159
Additions 22 22
Disposals (25) (25)
--------------------- ----------------------- ---------- ----------------------- ----------
At 30 June 2017 338 158 660 1,156
======================= ========== ======================= ==========
DEPRECIATION
--------------------- ----------------------- ---------- ----------------------- ----------
At 31 January 2017 (157) (95) (439) (691)
Charge for the year (33) (3) (15) (51)
Disposals -
--------------------- ----------------------- ---------- ----------------------- ----------
At 30 June 2017 (190) (98) (454) (742)
----------------------- ---------- ----------------------- ----------
Net Book Value
At 30 June 2017 148 60 206 414
======================= ========== ======================= ==========
Leasehold improvements Equipment Furniture and fittings Total
EUR'000 EUR'000 EUR'000 EUR'000
COST
--------------------- ----------------------- ---------- ----------------------- ----------
At 1 January 2018 379 161 745 1,285
Additions 9 110 119
Disposals (11) (11)
--------------------- ----------------------- ---------- ----------------------- ----------
At 30 June 2018 368 170 855 1,393
======================= ========== ======================= ==========
DEPRECIATION
--------------------- ----------------------- ---------- ----------------------- ----------
At 31 January 2018 (216) (106) (561) (883)
Charge for the year (25) (5) (50) (80)
Disposals
--------------------- ----------------------- ---------- ----------------------- ----------
At 30 June 2018 (241) (111) (611) (963)
----------------------- ---------- ----------------------- ----------
Net Book Value
At 30 June 2018 127 59 244 430
======================= ========== ======================= ==========
15. Investments
Owned by % Six months ended Six months ended
30 June 2017 30 June 2018
EUR'000 EUR'000
Sec & Partners S.r.l. SEC 95% 5 5
Others - - 2 2
------------------------ ---------- ----
Total investments 7 7
================= =================
16. Other financial assets
Other financial assets include EUR 17,000 of bank deposits to
guarantee the ACH Cambre SL (Madrid) office lease.
17. Other assets
Six months Six months
ended ended
30 June 2017 30 June 2018
EUR'000 EUR'000
Deferred tax assets 417 535
Rental deposits 18 151
Directors benefits 264 292
Other 39 -
--------------------- ----------------- --------------
Total other assets 738 978
================= ==============
Director benefits is the asset coverage provided by an external
insurance company in order to fulfil the end of mandate obligations
for the Board director (see note 27).
18. Trade receivables
Six months ended Six months ended
30 June 2017 30 June 2018
EUR'000 EUR'000
-------------------------- --------------------- -------------------
Trade receivables 8,235 8.221
-------------------------- --------------------- -------------------
Total trade receivables 8.235 8,221
================= =================
There is no material difference between the net book value and
the fair-values of trade receivables due to their short-term
nature.
The ageing analysis of accounts receivables by due date is as
follows:
Trade receivables Days from due date Total trade receivables
not yet due
------------------------------------------
<=120 >120<=180 >180<=365 >365
EUR'000 EUR'000 EUR'000 EUR'000 EUR'000 EUR'000
------------------ -------- ---------- ---------- -------- ------------------------
4,893 2,085 318 310 615 8,221
================== ======== ========== ========== ======== ========================
65% 16% 3% 5% 11% 100%
The amounts presented in the consolidated statement of financial
position are net of an allowance for doubtful receivables of EUR
343,000 (2017: EUR146,000) based on prior experience and their
assessment of the current economic ongoing.
19. Other receivables
Six months ended Six months ended
30 June 2017 30 June 2018
EUR'000 EUR'000
Prepaid expenses 238 428
Tax on income 396 727
VAT 45 24
Others 239 167
--------------------------- ----------------- -----------------
Total other receivables 918 1,346
================= =================
There is no material difference between the net book value and
the fair values of other receivables due to their short-term
nature.
20. Financial Investments
Six months ended Six months ended
30 June 2017 30 June 2018
EUR'000 EUR'000
UBS S.A. investment 1,075 1,092
Porta Communication equities - 3,452
1.075 4,544
================= ===================
The table above provides an analysis of financial instruments
that are initially recognised at fair value (level 1) based on the
degree to which the fair value is observable.
Level 1 fair value measurements are those derived from quoted
prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or
liabilities.
30 June 2018
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investments Purchase Cost Fair Value Accrued interest Total
EUR'000 EUR'000 EUR'000 EUR'000
Bonds 378 368 - 368
Equities 545 699 - 699
Other 30 25 - 25
------------- -------------------------------- -------------------- ----------------------------------- ------------
Total 953 1,092 - 1,092
30 June 2017
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investments Purchase Cost Fair Value Accrued interest Total
EUR'000 EUR'000 EUR'000 EUR'000
Bonds 428 431 1 432
Equities 545 616 - 616
Other 30 27 - 27
------------- -------------------------------- -------------------- ----------------------------------- ------------
Total 1,003 1,074 1 1,075
30 June 2017 30 June 2018
---------------------------- ------------------------------
Level Level
Investments at fair value 1 2 3 1 2 3
Available for
sale EUR'000 EUR'000 EUR'000 EUR'000 EUR'000 EUR'000
Debt securities:
- Government - - - - - -
bonds
- Other bonds 51 - - - - -
--------------------------- ------------ -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Total 51 - - - - -
Equities and
mutual funds
under management:
- Equity Funds 617 - - 699 - -
- Bond Funds 380 - - 368 - -
- Balanced
Funds 27 - - 25 - -
------------------------------------ ------------ --------
Total 1,024 - - 1,092 - -
------------------------------------ ------------ -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Total Investments 1,075 - - 1.092 - -
============ ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Debt securities Equities Funds Loans Total
----------------------------- --------- ------ ------ ------
Financial Assets Available
for sale
Opening Balance January
1 2017 53 - 996 - 1.049
Purchases - - -
Positive changes in - - - - -
fair value
Other changes - - - - -
Sales - - - - -
Negative changes in
fair value (2) - 28 - 26
--------- ------ ------ ------ ------
Closing Balance June
30 2017 51 - 1,024 - 1,075
========= ====== ====== ====== ======
Debt securities Equities Funds Loans Total
----------------------------- --------- ------ ------ ------
Financial Assets Available
for sale
Opening Balance January
1 2018 53 - 1,068 - 1.121
Purchases - - - -
Positive changes in
fair value - - 38 - 38
Other changes - - - - -
Sales (51) - - - (51)
Negative changes in
fair value (2) - (14) - (16)
--------- ------ ------ ------ ------
Closing Balance June
30 2018 - - 1,092 - 1,092
========= ====== ====== ====== ======
21. Cash and cash equivalents
For the purpose of the cash flow statement, cash and cash
equivalents comprise the following balances with original maturity
of 90 days or less:
Six months ended Six months ended
30 June 2017 30 June 2018
EUR'000 EUR'000
Cash at bank 5,085 4,522
----------------------------------
Total cash and cash equivalents 5,085 4,522
================= ===================
22. Trade payables
Six months ended Six months ended
30 June 2017 30 June 2018
EUR'000 EUR'000
Trade payables 2,162 2,390
-----------------------
Total trade payables 2,162 2,390
================= =================
23. Borrowings
The Group has both long-term borrowings funding business
acquisitions and short-term credit facilities for working capital.
Borrowings shown on current and noncurrent liabilities are as
follows:
Six months ended Six months ended
30 June 2017 31 December 2018
EUR'000 EUR'000
Deutsche Bank 503 581
Banca Popolare di Milano 278 199
Unicredit 104 1,035
Carige - 314
National Westminster Bank PLC 49 38
Banco Colpatria - 145
Total current liabilities 934 2,312
================= ==================
UBS 1,762 1,762
Deutsche Bank 855 222
Banca Popolare di Milano 403 300
Unicredit 610 2,686
Carige - 671
National Westminster Bank PLC 40 14
------ ------
Total non-current liabilities 3,670 5,655
====== ======
Total borrowings 4,604 7,967
====== ======
Details of non-current liabilities
Outstanding Total facilities Interest Maturity Repayment Security
EUR'000 EUR'000 rate date
Pledge on Silvia
Euribor Anna Mazzucca
UBS 1,762 1,762 + 1.25% Open ended Open ended financial instruments
============ ================= ============== =========== ============= =======================
Banca Popolare February
di Milano 300 1000 1,1% 2020 Monthly None
============ ================= ============== =========== ============= =======================
Unicredit 170 1,000 1.2% Dec. 2020 Monthly None
============ ================= ============== =========== ============= =======================
National
Westminster October
PLC 14 100 4.69% 2019 Monthly None
============ ================= ============== =========== ============= =======================
Deutsche Euribor
Bank 222 1,000 + 1% Feb. 2020 Monthly None
============ ================= ============== =========== ============= =======================
Euribor
3 months
* 365/360
Unicredit 2,516 3,500 (1.7%-0.336) July 2022 Three months None
============ ================= ============== =========== ============= =======================
Every six
Carige 671 1,000 1.2% June 2021 months None
============ ================= ============== =========== ============= =======================
24. Other payables
Six months ended Six months ended
30 June 2017 30 June 2018
EUR'000 EUR'000
Accrued Expenses 269 332
Advances from customers 77 43
Employees and payroll-related 1,168 1,380
Government institutions 297 279
Referred Parties 142 142
Tax local 2 -
Tax on Income 207 341
VAT 597 542
Other 56 370
----------------- -----------------
Total other payables 2,815 3,429
================= =================
There is no material difference between the net book value and
the fair values of current other payables due to their short-term
nature.
25. Provision
Six months ended Six months ended
30 June 2017 30 June 2018
EUR'000 EUR'000
Provisions 612 1,707
-------------------
Total provisions 612 1,707
================= =================
Increase in provisions versus 2016 is mainly due to accounting
for the earn out liability on the acquisition of Newington and Sec
Latam (see note 13).
26. Employee benefits
Six months Six months
ended ended
30 June 2017 30 June 2018
Severance indemnity 1,483 1,815
----------------------------
Total severance indemnity 1,483 1,815
====== ===================
The liability represents the amount for future severance
payments to employees.
Severance indemnity
EUR'000
Opening Balance January 1 2017 1,504
Service Cost 97
Net Interest 10
Benefit Paid (54)
Actuarial Gain/Loss (74)
-------------------------------- --------------------
Closing Balance 30 June 2017 1,483
-------------------------------- --------------------
Opening Balance January 1 2018 1,680
Service Cost 103
Net Interest 11
Benefit Paid (24)
Actuarial Gain/Loss 45
-------------------------------- --------------------
Closing Balance 30 June 2018 1,815
-------------------------------- --------------------
27. Other non-current liabilities
Six months ended Six months ended
30 June 2017 30 June 2018
EUR'000 EUR'000
Total other non-current liabilities 304 510
================= =================
SEC S.P.A. has an obligation in relation to a Board Director for
end of mandate allowance as per the above amounts on each year end
date (322.000 in 2018 and 289.000 in 2017). Such obligation is
covered by an insurance asset (note 17).
28. Share capital
At 30 June 2018, the share capital comprises:
12,221,975 ordinary shares of 0.1 EUR each.
All shares are fully issued and paid up. The ordinary
shareholders are then entitled to receive dividends in proportion
to their percentage ownership in the Company.
Authorized, issued and fully As at As at
paid capital 30 June 2017 30 June 2018
------------------ ----------------------
As at 1 January EUR 1,000,000 EUR1,000,000
Additions during the year EUR 222,197.50 EUR 222,197.50
-------------------------------- ------------------ ----------------------
30 June EUR 1,222,197.50 EUR1,222,197.50
================== ======================
-
Earnings per share
The basic and diluted earnings per share for 2017 were
determined by dividing the profit attributable to the equity
holders of the parent by the number of shares outstanding during
the period. Earnings per share, basic, is determined as
follows:
Six months Six months ended
ended 30 June 2018
30 June 2018 EUR'000
EUR'000
Profit for the year attributable to
owners of the company EUR 218,000 EUR 261,000
Number of shares 10,000,000 12,221,975
------------------------------------- -------------- -----------------
Earnings per share, basic EUR 0.018 EUR 0.021
============== ===================
The General Assembly held on 9 June 2016 resolved to issue a
maximum of 134,000 shares to be assigned to WH Ireland Limited as
warrant, and a maximum of 675,000 shares as stock grant plan to the
employees.
As of today, neither warrant nor stock grant plan were
subscribed, however the potential additional shares should be
considered as dilutive instruments. Earnings per share, diluted, is
determined as follows:
Six months ended Six months ended
30 June 2017 30 June 2018
EUR'000 EUR'000
Profit for the year attributable
to owners of the company EUR 218,00 EUR 261,000
Number of shares 13,031,975 13,031,975
---------------------------------- ----------------- -----------------
Earnings per share, diluted EUR 0.017 EUR 0.020
================= =================
29. Reserves
The following table describes the nature of each reserve:
Six months ended Six months ended
30 June 2017 30 June 2018
EUR'000 EUR'000
------------------------ -----------------
Legal reserve 58 58
------------------------ -----------------
Evaluation reserve 78 167
------------------------ -----------------
Share premium reserve 2,627 2,615
Retained earnings 5,215 5,308
------------------------
Total Reserves 7,978 8,148
================= =================
Legal reserve
This reserve required by law, not distributable.
Evaluation reserve
Gains/losses arising on financial assets classified as available
for sale, actuarial evaluation on pension allowance and exchange
rates differences.
Share premium reserve
The share premium reserve includes EUR 3,777,000 related to the
IPO of Sec S.p.A. on the AIM UK market occurred on 26 July 2016,
for amounts paid in excess of share face value, net of EUR
1,150,000 generated by the costs of listing, net of tax.
Retained earnings
All other net gains and losses and transactions with owners not
recognized elsewhere.
30. Non-controlling equity
The equity non-controlling interests refers to the net value of
the assets and liabilities attributable to minority investments not
held by the Group. Summarized financial information in relation to
the subsidiaries before intra-group eliminations is presented
below, together with the indication of the minority share of the
net assets and the related results for the year.
The summarized company statements of financial position for the
Two year ended 30 June 2018 are as follows:
As at 30 HIT CUR CAM ACH SEC-A MED DS SEC-P KOHL NEW MAR
June 2017
EUR'000
Non-current
assets 5 8 119 298 2 17 1 637 13 185 19
Current
assets 817 306 1,405 791 337 153 41 1,612 479 1,447 96
Noncurrent
liabilities 59 10 - - 13 28 0 74 10 - -
Current
liabilities 174 314 498 198 274 61 63 951 151 704 35
Equity 589 (10) 1,026 891 52 81 (21) 1,224 331 928 80
Equity
to non-controlling
interest 250 (3) 247 437 26 41 (10) 607 83 372 32
As at 30 HIT CUR CAM ACH SEC-A MED DS SEC-P KOHL NEW MAR NWC
June 2018
EUR'000
Non-current
assets 6 5 98 319 4 14 1 638 27 143 20 76
Current
assets 916 229 1,273 298 269 143 34 1,686 228 2,109 240 911
Noncurrent
liabilities 87 11 - - 20 18 - 93 18 14 - 26
Current
liabilities 209 221 454 175 255 53 64 693 91 1,180 161 785
---- ---- ------ ---- ------ ---- ----- ------ ----- ------ ---- ----
Equity 626 2 917 442 (2) 86 (29) 1,538 146 1,058 99 176
---- ---- ------ ---- ------ ---- ----- ------ ----- ------ ---- ----
Equity to
non-controlling
interest 265 - 220 152 (1) 42 (14) 761 36 423 40 86
The summarized income statement of the companies for the
two-year ended 30 June 2018 are as follows:
For the HIT CUR CAM ACH SEC-A MED DS SEC-P KOHL NEW MAR
period ended
30 June
2017
EUR'000
----------------- ------ ------ -------- ------ ------ ----- ---- ------ ------ -------- ------
Revenue 312 178 1,758 665 208 89 0 725 431 2,020 236
Cost of
Sale (375) (222) (1,798) (495) (198) (90) (9) (519) (429) (1,761) (212)
Other operating
income and
charges 36 10 (38) 1 (1) (3) - - 4 - -
Profit from
operations (27) (34) (78) 171 9 (4) (9) 206 6 259 24
------ ------ -------- ------ ------ ----- ---- ------ ------ -------- ------
Finance
income and
expenses - - - - (8) - - - (2) (4) -
Profit before
taxation (27) (34) (78) 171 1 (4) (9) 206 4 255 24
------ ------ -------- ------ ------ ----- ---- ------ ------ -------- ------
Taxation (7) (2) 10 - (1) (2) - (52) (1) (29) (5)
Profit (loss)
for the
period (34) (36) (68) 171 - (6) (9) 154 3 226 19
------ ------ -------- ------ ------ ----- ---- ------ ------ -------- ------
Profit
(loss)
for the
period
to
non-controlling
interest (15) (9) (16) 83 - (3) (4) 76 1 91 8
====== ====== ======== ====== ====== ===== ==== ====== ====== ======== ======
For the HIT CUR CAM ACH SEC-A MED DS SEC-P Kohl NEW MAR NWC
period
ended
30 June
2018
EUR'000
Revenue 473 96 1,738 412 135 109 - 654 185 2,237 559 1,117
Cost of
Sale (460) (124) (1,581) (470) (180) (101) (2) (492) (339) (1,903) (540) (996)
Other
operating
income
and charges 11 11 3 - - - - 103 3 - 12 16
Profit
from operations 24 (17) 160 (58) (45) 8 (2) 265 (151) 334 31 137
Finance
income
and expenses - - - (1) (3) - - - (2) (5) (7) (5)
Profit
before
taxation 24 (17) 160 (59) (48) 8 (2) 265 (153) 329 24 132
Taxation (15) (1) - 20 - (5) - (44) - (63) (4) (44)
Profit
(loss)
for the
period 9 (18) 160 (39) (48) 3 (2) 221 (153) 266 20 88
Profit
(loss)
for the
period
to
non-controlling
interest 4 (4) 38 (14) (23) - (1) 109 (38) 106 8 43
31. Related party transactions
From time to time the Group enters into transactions with its
associate undertakings. For amounts paid to key managers please
refer to the table within note 6. For payables to related parties,
please refer to note 24; for borrowings please refer to note 4
(d.7).
32. Contingencies and commitments
SEC Group has no contingent liabilities and or commitments.
33. Events after the reporting date
Final Newington Earn-out payment
SEC is defining amount of the second and last earn out on the
Acquisition of Newington
Closure of Shareholder Offer and Placing
Further to the announcement of 17 July 2018, the Company
confirms that the Shareholder Offer and associated Placing, as
defined in that announcement, has now closed raising approximately
GBP1,229,335.
172,006 Ordinary Shares of no par value, were issued pursuant to
the Shareholder Offer and 1,108,552 Ordinary Shares of no par value
were issued pursuant to the Placing. Accordingly the Company
confirms that 1,280,558 Ordinary Shares of no par value, at a price
of 96p ("Total Shares") have now been issued and allotted, subject
only on Admission.
Total Voting Rights
For the purposes of the Financial Conduct Authority's Disclosure
and Transparency Rules ("DTRs"), the issued ordinary share capital
of the Company following Admission consist of 13,502,533 Ordinary
Shares with voting rights attached (one vote per Ordinary Share).
There are no Ordinary Shares held in treasury. This total voting
rights figure may be used by shareholders as the denominator for
the calculations by which they will determine whether they are
required to notify their interests in, or a change to their
interest in, the Company under the DTRs.
34. Ultimate controlling party
Sec S.p.A. is 69% controlled by Fiorenzo Tagliabue.
This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the
London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct
Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United
Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution
of this information may apply. For further information, please
contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.
END
IR PGUCUBUPRUBR
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