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Interim Results

9th Sep 2008 14:45

RNS Number : 0566D
Asian Growth Properties Limited
09 September 2008
 
9th September, 2008
 
Asian Growth Properties Limited
 
Immediate Release
 
Results for the six months ended 30th June, 2008
 
Asian Growth Properties Limited (the “Company”) (AIM Stock Code: AGP), the Hong Kong based China property development and investment company, announces its unaudited consolidated results for the six months ended 30th June, 2008 as follows:
 
Highlights
 
n Total operating revenue of HK$1,114.3 million (£71.7 million) (2007: HK$379.0 million (£24.1 million))
n Net profit attributable to the Company’s shareholders of HK$671.3 million (£43.2 million) (2007: HK$107.3 million (£6.8 million))
n Earnings per share for profit attributable to the Company’s shareholders of HK75.7 cents (4.9 pence) (2007: HK12.1 cents (0.8 pence))
n Fair value changes on investment properties net of deferred taxation of HK$519.6 million (£33.4 million) (2007: HK$147.1 million (£9.4 million))
n Earnings per share excluding the net effect of fair value changes on investment properties of HK17.1 cents (1.1 pence) (2007: loss of HK4.5 cents (0.3 pence))
n Equity attributable to the Company’s shareholders as at 30th June, 2008 of HK$7,503.5 million (£482.7million) (31st December, 2007: HK$6,752.5 million (£436.2 million))
n Net asset value per share as at 30th June, 2008 of HK$8.47 (54.5 pence) (31st December, 2007: HK$7.62 (49.2 pence))
 
Notes:1. Figures in Pounds Sterling are converted from Hong Kong dollars based upon the exchange rates prevailing on the latest practicable business day of the respective accounting periods. The relevant exchange rates adopted are stated as follows:-
 
For 30th June, 2008: £1 = HK$15.5447;
For 31st December, 2007: £1 = HK$15.4819; and
For 30th June, 2007: £1 = HK$15.7247
 
2. For Shareholders’ information, the recent exchange rates have fluctuated significantly and the exchange rate on 8th September, 2008 was  £1 = HK$13.7590.
 
Miscellaneous
 
The results included in this announcement are extracted from the unaudited consolidated financial statements of the Company for the six months ended 30th June, 2008, which have been approved by the Board of Directors on 9th September, 2008.
 
The 2008 Interim Report is expected to be posted to shareholders and holders of depositary interests in late September 2008.
 
For further information, please contact:
 
Lu Wing Chi
TEL: +852 2828 6363
Executive Director
 
Asian Growth Properties Limited
 

 
Richard Gray
TEL: +44 207 459 3600
Andrew Potts
 
Panmure Gordon (UK) Limited
 
(Nominated Advisor)
 
 
 
Attached:-
 
1. Chairman’s Review;
2. Executive Directors’ Review;
3. Condensed Consolidated Income Statement;
4. Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet;
5. Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity;
6. Condensed Consolidated Cash Flow Statement; and
7. Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
CHAIRMAN’S REVIEW
 
I am pleased to present the unaudited consolidated results of Asian Growth Properties Limited (“AGP” or the “Company”) for the first six months of 2008 to the shareholders. 
 
Results
 
AGP reported a net profit attributable to the Company’s shareholders of HK$671.3 million (£43.2 million) for the six months ended 30th June, 2008 (2007: HK$107.3 million (£6.8 million)). The reported profit included a revaluation surplus on investment properties net of deferred taxation. By excluding the net effect of such surplus, the Group net profit attributable to the Company’s shareholders was HK$151.7 million (£9.8 million) for the period (2007: loss of HK$39.8 million (£2.5 million)). 
 
As at 30th June, 2008, the Group’s equity attributable to the Company’s shareholders amounted to HK$7,503.5 million (£482.7 million), an increase of HK$751.0 million (£46.5 million) over 31st December, 2007. The net asset value per share as at 30th June, 2008 was HK$8.47 (54.5 pence) as compared with HK$7.62 (49.2 pence) as at 31st December, 2007.
 
Figures in Pounds Sterling are converted from Hong Kong dollars based upon the exchange rates prevailing on the latest practicable business day of the respective accounting periods. 
 
Operations
 
During the period, the Group has continued the development of various property projects in Hong Kong and mainland China. In Hong Kong, most of the residential units of The Morrison and the Royal Green projects have been sold. The marketing campaign for The Forest Hills is continuing with more than two-thirds of the 304 residential units already sold. The Group’s rental income from Dah Sing Financial Centre benefited from the increased demand resulting in higher occupancy and rental rates. The entire commercial podium of The Morrison has been leased for showroom purpose. In mainland China, the Group acquired a 91 per cent. interest in a project to develop tourist leisure facilities at the famous scenic Huangshan area, Anhui Province. An anchor tenant has been secured for more than one-third of the total space with naming rights for the office tower in Westmin Plaza Phase II. The leasing activities for the remaining commercial space in Westmin Plaza Phase II and the office space in Plaza Central are continuing. The properties owned by the Group in Chengdu were confirmed by appropriate authorities to be suitable for normal use after the Sichuan earthquake.
 
Outlook
 
The Board of AGP will continue to concentrate its efforts for expansion principally in mainland China and Hong Kong. The government in mainland China has continued its macro measures to curb property speculations and stabilise prices. These measures together with credit tightening and rising inflationary pressures have adversely affected the property sector, in particular the residential market, with a notable drop in prices and substantially reduced transaction volumes. The Group considers that the current adjustment is beneficial to healthy development of the mainland China property market over the long term. The Group will continue to adhere to its focused approach to the expansion of its mainland property portfolio.
 
Interim Dividend
 
The Board does not propose the payment of an interim dividend for the period ended 30th June, 2008 (2007: Nil).
 
Acknowledgement
 
The Board would like to take this opportunity to thank the executive and management team for the execution of the Board’s strategy and their ongoing support.
 
 
David Mathewson
Non-Executive Chairman
 
England, 9th September, 2008
 
 
EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS’ REVIEW
 
FINANCIAL SUMMARY
 
Turnover for the six months ended 30th June, 2008 amounted to HK$1,114.3 million (£71.7 million) (2007: HK$379.0 million (£24.1 million)). The turnover was principally attributable to the recognition of the sales of residential units in Hong Kong and the increased rental contributions from Dah Sing Financial Centre in Hong Kong and the improved occupancy of Plaza Central in Chengdu.
 
Net profit attributable to the Company’s shareholders for the period amounted to HK$671.3 million (£43.2 million) (2007: HK$107.3 million (£6.8 million)), equivalent to earnings per share of HK75.7 cents (4.9 pence) (2007: HK12.1 cents (0.8 pence)). The reported profit included a revaluation surplus on investment properties net of deferred taxation. By excluding the effect of such surplus, the Group net profit attributable to the Company’s shareholders was HK$151.7 million (£9.8 million) (2007: loss of HK$39.8 million (£2.5 million)), equivalent to HK17.1 cents (1.1 pence) (2007: loss of HK4.5 cents (0.3 pence)) per share. 
 
As at 30th June, 2008, the Group’s equity attributable to the Company’s shareholders amounted to HK$7,503.5 million (£482.7 million) (31st December, 2007: HK$6,752.5 million (£436.2 million)). The net asset value per share as at 30th June, 2008 was HK$8.47 (54.5 pence) as compared with HK$7.62 (49.2 pence) as at 31st December, 2007.
 
For Shareholders’ information, figures in Pounds Sterling are converted from Hong Kong dollars based upon the exchange rates prevailing on the latest practicable business day of the respective accounting periods and the relevant exchange rates adopted are stated as follows:-
For 30th June, 2008: £1 = HK$15.5447;
For 31st December, 2007: £1 = HK$15.4819; and
For 30th June, 2007:  £1 = HK$15.7247
 
 
BUSINESS REVIEW
 
Property Investment and Development
 
All of the Group’s property development and investment projects are located in Hong Kong and mainland China and are as listed below:
 
Hong Kong
 
1. Dah Sing Financial Centre, Gloucester Road, Wanchai
 
The 39-storey commercial building includes offices and shops (total gross floor area of about 37,171 square metres) and with ancillary car-parking facilities for 137 covered and 27 open car-parking spaces. Gross rental income generated for the period was HK$72.1 million. During the period, occupancy rate increased from 90.7% to 97.6% at 30th June, 2008 with the average rent per month increasing from HK$32.5 per square foot to HK$37.2 per square foot owing to the strong demand for office space.
 
2. Royal Green, Sheung Shui
 
The Group has a 55.0% interest in this private residential development comprising 922 residential units contained in three 40-storey residential towers with ancillary recreational and car-parking facilities. Turnover for the period, representing completion of the sales of 74 residential units and 19 carparking spaces, was HK$231.1 million generating a net profit of HK$9.6 million after taking into account the related expenses. During the period, a total of 6 residential units and 16 car-parking spaces were sold. The marketing campaign for the remaining 2 furnished duplex residential units in Tower 3 known as Green Palace and 5 car-parking spaces is continuing.
 
 3. The Morrison, Wanchai
 
The property is a 30-storey residential and commercial composite building, with a total gross floor area of approximately 5,837 square metres, comprising 104 residential units above a club-house floor and a 3-storey commercial podium. The development was completed in October of 2007 and has won the Best Interior Design Award of the CNBC Asia Pacific Property Awards 2008 organised by the International Homes Magazine. Turnover for the period, representing completion of the sales of 47 residential units, was HK$227.4 million generating a net profit of HK$56.4 million after taking into account the related expenses.
 
During the period, a total of 2 residential units were sold and marketing for the remaining 6 units is continuing. In February 2008, the entire commercial podium of The Morrison was leased at a satisfactory rental yield to Volkswagen Hong Kong Limited for car showroom purpose for a term of six years.
 
 4. The Forest Hills, Diamond Hill
 
The property has been developed as a 48-storey residential and commercial composite building, with a total gross floor area of approximately 18,825 square metres, comprising 304 residential units above a 7-level retail podium, a clubhouse and car parks. The development was completed in April 2008 and delivery of the residential units to buyers commenced in May 2008. Turnover for the period, representing completion of the sales of 144 residential units, was HK$548.8 million generating a net profit of HK$88.9 million after taking into account the related expenses.
 
During the period, a total of 52 residential units were sold. The marketing campaign for 76 private car parks commenced in August 2008. To date, over two-thirds of the 304 residential units and 26 car parks have been sold and marketing for the remaining residential units and the retail podium is continuing.
 
5. Crowne Plaza Hong Kong Causeway Bay
 
The project is being developed into a 29-storey five-star hotel comprising 262 guest rooms (gross floor area of approximately 14,945 square metres) with ancillary facilities. The Group engaged a subsidiary of the InterContinental Hotels Group to manage the operation of the hotel under the name of “Crowne Plaza Hong Kong Causeway Bay”. Key management team (including the general manager seconded from the InterContinental Hotels Group) of the future hotel operation has been put into place and is actively pursuing hotel opening preparations. Superstructure construction works are in progress and the hotel project is scheduled to be opened by the middle of 2009.
 
6. Fo Tan, Sha Tin
 
The property with a site area of about 20,092 square metres is currently leased out as a logistic centre. Rezoning applications with several master layout plans and design schemes have been submitted to the Town Planning Board and relevant parties for consideration. The proposed development will comprise, among other facilities, residential units, car parks, educational facilities and a bus terminus. A hearing by the Town Planning Board held in July 2008 rejected the Group’s town planning application due to a number of outstanding environmental, traffic and urban design issues and the Group intends to appeal to the Town Planning Appeal Board shortly. Discussions are ongoing with various relevant parties with a view to securing the requisite town planning approvals.
 
7. 28/F., 9 Queen’s Road Central, Central
 
The property is the entire floor of a 35-storey Grade A commercial building in Central with a gross floor area of approximately 1,279 square metres. It is currently let to a tenant for a term of three years until May 2009.
 
8. Excelsior Plaza Shop, Causeway Bay
 
The shop with a gross floor area of approximately 39 square metres was let to a retail tenant for a term of two years until the end of June 2008. A new lease with an international jewellery retailer has been signed for a term of three years commencing from early July 2008 at a significantly higher rental.
 
Mainland China
 
9. Westmin Plaza Phase II, Guangzhou
 
The Westmin Plaza Phase II project, which has a total construction floor area of about 118,966 square metres, comprises four residential blocks of 646 units and one office block erected on a six-storey commercial/car-parking podium. The whole development was completed in March 2008.
 
The marketing campaign for the 45 unsold residential units is expected to commence in the fourth quarter of 2008 upon payment of the land premium. The leasing campaign for the 14-storey office tower with a total gross floor area of about 16,112 square metres has achieved initial success by securing an anchor tenant, a member of the American International Assurance group, for more than one-third of the total space with naming rights for the office tower with a six years lease commencing in April 2008. The office tower was 45% let as at 30th June, 2008 at satisfactory rent levels and a further 16% has been let subsequently. Leasing activities for the remaining office space are continuing. In addition, leasing campaign for the 3-storey shopping arcade with a total gross floor area of about 26,945 square metres is in progress. Stable recurrent rental income from this property is expected.
 
10. Plaza Central, Chengdu
 
Plaza Central comprises two 30-storey office blocks erected on a common podium of six commercial/retail floors and two car-parking floors with a total construction floor area of approximately 91,455 square metres. As at 30th June, 2008, the occupancy rates for office tower I and II were about 73% and 12% respectively and leasing activities for the remaining area of the office towers are continuing. The retail podium with a construction floor area of about 28,758 square metres has been fully let principally to Chengdu New World Department Store. Rental return from this property will benefit from the improved occupancy. 
 
Plaza Central was temporarily closed for safety inspection after the Sichuan earthquake in mid May 2008. With the exception of minor damage to certain non-structural parts of the complex and accessories, it was confirmed by the appropriate authorities that the property is suitable for normal use. As a result, the complex was subsequently re-opened for occupation by tenants.
 
11. Huangshan, Anhui Province
 
In March 2008, the Group acquired a 91 per cent. interest in a mainland China company for a total cash consideration of HK$15.9 million with the remaining interest being held by a Chinese party. This joint venture company has the right to develop tourist leisure facilities on land located in the famous scenic Huangshan area, Anhui Province. The land to be developed by the joint venture company has a site area of about 333,500 square metres comprising about 66,700 square metres owned by the company and the rights to develop about 266,800 square metres which are leased from the local authority. Land premiums of HK$32.9 million have been paid by the joint venture company to the local authority to secure the land use right and the upfront payment of the leasehold right for a 40-year period. The Group has appointed an international property consultancy firm to prepare a survey for the market positioning of the project.
 
Working Capital and Loan Facilities
 
As at 30th June, 2008, the Group’s cash balance was HK$590.4 million (31st December, 2007: HK$605.6 million) and unutilized facilities were HK$1,091.1 million (31st December, 2007: HK$1,431.2 million). 
 
Gearing ratio as at 30th June, 2008, calculated on the basis of net interest bearing debt minus cash and restricted and pledged deposits as a percentage of total property assets, was 9.7% (31st December, 2007: 15.3%). 
 
As at 30th June, 2008, maturities of the Group’s outstanding borrowings were as follows:
 
 
30th June, 2008
HK$’ million
31st December, 2007
HK$’ million
Due
 
 
Within 1 year
1,476.8
1,678.5
1-2 years
47.3
44.7
3-5 years
643.9
610.4
Over 5 years
43.9
67.2
 
2,211.9
2,400.8
 
Pledge of Assets
 
For the Company’s subsidiaries operating in Hong Kong and mainland China, the total bank loans drawn as at 30th June, 2008 amounted to HK$2,211.9 million (31st December, 2007: HK$2,400.8 million), which were secured by properties valued at HK$6,571.5 million (31st December, 2007: HK$8,541.4 million). 
 
Treasury Policies
 
The Group adheres to prudent treasury policies. As at 30th June, 2008, all of the Group’s borrowings were raised through its wholly-owned or substantially controlled subsidiaries on a non-recourse basis. Currently, borrowings are primarily denominated in Hong Kong dollars and mainly based on floating rate terms. There were no derivative financial instruments employed during the period.
 
International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”)
 
The Group has adopted IFRS and the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements included in this report have been prepared in accordance with IFRS.
 
Acquisition by the Group after 30th June, 2008
 
In July 2008, the Group acquired from its intermediate holding company S E A Holdings Limited a company owning a shopping arcade with a gross floor area of about 16,280 square metres and 50 car parks in a commercial development known as New Century Plaza in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China for a cash consideration of HK$60.3 million. Such consideration was based upon the consolidated net asset value of that company as at the completion date after taking into account an independent valuation for the properties of HK$118.3 million as at 30th June, 2008. The arcade is fully let to a furniture retailer until August 2009.
 
Outlook
 
2008 has been a difficult year for the global economy affected by the credit crunch caused by U.S. sub-prime mortgage crisis, rising inflation leaded by surging commodities prices and decline in worldwide equity markets. The global economic outlook will continue to be unstable in the second half of 2008.
 
In mainland China, there has been no sign of relaxation of the macro-economic measures introduced by the government (including regulations restricting foreign investments in property projects) and the property market is likely to consolidate for a longer period. Certain property companies will be severely affected by the tight control of commercial lending to the property sector and failure of fund raisings from the financial market, which the Group believes will lead to increasingly attractive opportunities. We believe that despite current economic conditions, the market continues to present future growth potential for the Group as the long term economic prospects of mainland China still remain positive given its strong economic fundamentals. The Group will adhere to its focused approach to the expansion of its mainland China property portfolio. 

 

 
In Hong Kong, the economy continued to grow in the first half of 2008 but the pace was inevitably affected due to rising inflation and a significant drop in the financial market. The local property market recorded substantially reduced transaction volumes in recent months. The Group expects that there will be further correction to the property market in the short term. The Group will continue its marketing campaign for the remaining residential units in various development projects and the retail podium of The Forest Hills. The rental income from Dah Sing Financial Centre will continue to grow but the pace will be affected by weakening demand. Construction of the Crowne Plaza Hong Kong Causeway Bay is in progress with a grand-opening date targeted in mid 2009.
 
 
On behalf of Executive Directors
 
 
Lu Wing Chi
Executive Director
 
Hong Kong, 9th September, 2008
 
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED 30 June 2008
 
 
 
Six months ended 30 June
 
NOTES
2008
2007
 
 
HK$’000
HK$’000
 
 
(unaudited)
(unaudited)
 
 
 
 
Revenue
 
1,114,313
379,047
Interest income
 
12,387
12,080
Other income
 
8,595
12,949
Costs:
 
 
 
 Property and related costs
5
 
(801,330)
 
(317,117)
 Staff costs
 
 
(8,297)
 
(10,832)
 Depreciation
 
 
(259)
 
(265)
 Other expenses
6
 
(68,033)
 
(63,023)
 
 
 
 
 
 
(877,919)
(391,237)
 
 
_________
_________
Profit from operations before fair value changes
 
 
 
 on investment properties
 
257,376
12,839
Fair value changes on properties held for sale upon
 
 
 
 transfer to investment properties
 
227,145
-
Fair value changes on investment properties
 
407,630
178,570
 
 
_________
_________
Profit from operations after fair value changes
 
 
 
 on investment properties
 
892,151
191,409
Finance costs
7
(37,270)
(33,905)
 
 
_________
_________
Profit before taxation
8
854,881
157,504
Income tax expense
9
(179,367)
(56,236)
 
 
_________
_________
Profit for the period
 
675,514
101,268
 
 
_________
_________
_________
_________

 
Attributable to:
 
 
 
 Company’s shareholders
 
671,318
107,314
 Minority interest
 
4,196
(6,046)
 
 
_________
_________
 
 
675,514
101,268
 
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
 
 
HK$
HK$
Earnings per share for profit attributable to the
 
 
 
 Company’s shareholders
11
 
 
- Basic
 
0.76
0.12
 
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
Earnings (loss) per share excluding changes in fair value
 
 
 
 of investment properties net of deferred tax
 
 
 
- Basic
11
0.17
(0.04)
 
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
 

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
AT 30 June 2008
 
 
NOTES
30.6.2008
31.12.2007
 
 
HK$’000
HK$’000
 
 
(unaudited)
(audited)
Non-current Assets
 
 
 
Investment properties
12
6,414,490
5,492,690
Property, plant and equipment
12
220,489
158,879
Prepaid lease payments
12
599,416
605,420
Other loans receivable
 
122,910
123,517
 
 
_________
_________
 
 
7,357,305
6,380,506
 
 
_________
_________
Current Assets
 
 
 
Properties held for sale
 
1,052,774
477,369
Properties under development held for sale
 
591,216
2,032,746
Prepaid lease payments
12
15,288
16,819
Other loans receivable
 
2,044
2,044
Receivables, deposits and prepayments
13
206,645
335,651
Amount due from a minority shareholder
14
70,857
-
Income tax recoverable
 
3
2,794
Pledged bank deposits
 
632,422
317,772
Restricted bank balances and deposits
15
123,014
134,240
Bank balances and deposits
 
590,371
605,634
 
 
_________
_________
 
 
3,284,634
3,925,069
 
 
_________
_________
Current Liabilities
 
 
 
Payables, deposits received and accrued charges
16
262,851
331,308
Sales deposits on properties held for sale received
 
33,545
354,332
Provisions
 
17,004
15,965
Income tax payable
 
143,596
96,853
Bank borrowings - due within one year
17
1,476,829
1,678,475
Amount due to a minority shareholder
 
-
79
 
 
_________
_________
 
 
1,933,825
2,477,012
 
 
_________
_________
Net Current Assets
 
1,350,809
1,448,057
 
 
_________
_________
 
 
8,708,114
7,828,563
 
 
_________
_________
_________
_________

 
 
NOTES
30.6.2008
31.12.2007
 
 
HK$’000
HK$’000
 
 
(unaudited)
(audited)
 
 
 
 
Capital and Reserves
 
 
 
Share capital
18
345,204
345,204
Reserves
 
7,158,562
6,407,312
 
 
_________
_________
Equity attributable to the Company’s shareholders
 
7,503,766
6,752,516
Minority interests
 
138,390
134,194
 
 
_________
_________
Total Equity
 
7,642,156
6,886,710
 
 
_________
_________
Non-current Liabilities
 
 
 
Bank borrowings - due after one year
17
735,075
722,359
Deferred taxation
 
330,883
219,494
 
 
_________
_________
 
 
1,065,958
941,853
 
 
_________
_________
 
 
8,708,114
7,828,563
 
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
 

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED 30 June 2008
 
 
Attributable to the Company’s shareholders
 
 
 
Share
Share
Other
Translation
Retained
 
Minority
 
 
Capital
 
Premium
 
Reserve
 
Reserve
 
Profits
 
Total
 
Interests
 
Total
 
 
HK$’000
 
HK$’000
 
HK$’000
 
HK$’000
 
HK$’000
 
HK$’000
 
HK$’000
 
HK$’000
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
At 1 January 2007 (audited)
345,204
4,836,225
772,376
10,164
105,163
6,069,132
408,978
6,478,110
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
Exchange movement during the period recognised directly in equity
-
-
-
24,615
-
24,615
-
24,615
Profit for the period
-
-
-
-
107,314
107,314
(6,046)
101,268
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
Total recognised income for the period
-
-
-
24,615
107,314
131,929
(6,046)
125,883
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
At 30 June 2007 (unaudited)
345,204
4,836,225
772,376
34,779
212,477
6,201,061
402,932
6,603,993
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
Exchange movement during the period recognised directly in equity
-
-
-
52,822
-
52,822
-
52,822
Profit for the period
-
-
-
-
498,633
498,633
(9,988)
488,645
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
Total recognised income for the period
-
-
-
52,822
498,633
551,455
(9,988)
541,467
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
Dividend paid to a minority shareholder
-
-
-
-
-
-
(258,750)
(258,750)
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
At 31 December 2007 (audited)
345,204
4,836,225
772,376
87,601
711,110
6,752,516
134,194
6,886,710
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
Exchange movement during the period recognised directly in equity
-
-
-
79,932
-
79,932
-
79,932
Profit for the period
-
-
-
-
671,318
671,318
4,196
675,514
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
Total recognised income for the period
-
-
-
79,932
671,318
751,250
4,196
755,446
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
At 30 June 2008 (unaudited)
345,204
4,836,225
772,376
167,533
1,382,428
7,503,766
138,390
7,642,156
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
 

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED 30 June 2008
 
 
 
Six months ended 30 June
 
NOTES
2008
2007
 
 
HK$’000
HK$’000
 
 
(unaudited)
(unaudited)
Net cash FROM (used in) operating activities
 
602,330
(1,973)
 
 
_________
_________
Investing activities
 
 
 
 Additions of other loans receivable
 
(1,225)
(7,922)
 Repayment of other loans receivable
 
3,740
14,246
 Increase in pledged bank deposits
 
(314,650)
(229,301)
 Decrease in restricted bank balances and deposits
15
19,490
26,396
 Acquisition of investment properties
 
-
(3,486)
 Acquisition of property, plant and equipment
 
(50,690)
(30,800)
 Acquisition of leasehold land through acquisition
 
 
 
of subsidiaries
21(a)
-
(7,000)
 Others
 
-
30
 
 
_________
_________
Net cash used in investing activities
 
(343,335)
(237,837)
 
 
_________
_________
Financing activities
 
 
 
 Proceeds from bank borrowings
 
774,109
593,984
 Repayment of bank borrowings
 
(995,178)
(4,730)
 Repayment to advance from a minority shareholder
 
(79)
(36,209)
 Advance to a minority shareholder
 
(70,857)
(109,581)
 Interest paid
 
(3,520)
(554)
 
 
_________
_________
Net cash (used in) FROM financing activities
 
(295,525)
442,910
 
 
_________
_________
Net (DECREASE) increase in cash and cash equivalents
 
(36,530)
203,100
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents at BEGINNINGOF PERIOD
 
605,634
106,327
 
 
 
 
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes
 
21,267
4,334
 
 
_________
_________
Cash and cash equivalents at END OF PERIOD, represented by bank balances and deposits
 
590,371
313,761
 
 
_________
_________
_________
_________

 

NOTES TO THE CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED 30 June 2008
 
 
1. GENERAL
 
The Company is a public limited company incorporated in the British Virgin Islands. The shares of the Company are listed on the AIM Market of London Stock Exchange plc.
 
The Company is an investment holding company. The principal subsidiaries of the Company are engaged in property investment and development.
 
 
2. BASIS OF PREPARATION
 
The condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared using accounting policies consistent with International Financing Reporting Standards and in accordance with International Accounting Standard (“IAS”) 34 “Interim Financial Reporting”.
 
 
3. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
The condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis except for investment properties, which are measured at fair values.
 
The accounting policies used in the condensed consolidated financial statements are consistent with those followed in the preparation of the Group’s annual financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2007.
 
In the current interim period, the Group has applied, for the first time, the following new interpretations (“new Interpretations”) issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (the “IASB”) and the International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee of IASB, which are effective for the Group’s financial year beginning 1 January 2008.
 
IFRIC 11 IFRS 2: Group and Treasury Share Transactions
IFRIC 12 Service Concession Arrangements
IFRIC 14 IAS 19 - The Limit on a Defined Benefit Asset, Minimum Funding
Requirements and their Interaction
 

 

 
3. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES - continued
 
The adoption of these new Interpretations had no material effect on the results or financial position of the Group for the current or prior accounting periods. Accordingly, no prior period adjustment has been required.
 
The Group has not early applied the following new and revised standards or interpretations that have been issued but are not yet effective. 
 
IFRSs (Amendments) Improvements to IFRSs1
IAS 1 (Revised) Presentation of Financial Statements2
IAS 23 (Revised) Borrowing Costs2
IAS 27 (Revised) Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements3
IAS 32 & 1 (Amendment) Puttable Financial Instruments and Obligations Arising
on Liquidation2
IAS 39 (Amendments) Eligible Hedged Items2
IFRS 1 & IAS 27 (Amendments) Cost of an Investment in a Subsidiary, Jointly Controlled
Entity or Associate2
IFRS 2 (Amendment) Vesting Conditions and Cancellations2
IFRS 3 (Revised) Business Combinations3
IFRS 8 Operating Segments2
IFRIC 13 Customer Loyalty Programmes4
IFRIC 15 Agreements for the Construction of Real Estate2
IFRIC 16 Hedges of a Net Investment in a Foreign Operation5
 
1 Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009 except the amendments to IFRS 5, effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 July 2009
2 Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009
3 Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 July 2009
4 Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 July 2008
5 Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 October 2008
 
The adoption of IFRS 3 (Revised) may affect the accounting for business combination for which the acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the first annual reporting period beginning on or after 1 July 2009. IAS 27 (Revised) will affect the accounting treatment for changes in a parent’s ownership interest in a subsidiary that do not result in a loss of control, which will be accounted for as equity transactions. The directors of the Company anticipate that the application of the other new and revised standards, amendment and interpretations will have no material impact on the results and the financial position of the Group.
 

 

 
4. SEGMENT INFORMATION
 
Geographical Segments
 
The operations of the Group are currently located in Hong Kong and the other regions of the People’s Republic of China (the “PRC”). The corresponding geographical locations of the Group’s assets are the basis on which the Group reports its primary segment information. 
 
Six months ended 30 June 2008
 
Hong Kong
PRC
Consolidated
 
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
REVENUE
 
 
 
External sales
1,007,398
106,915
1,114,313
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
RESULT
 
 
 
Segment profit
728,307
158,028
886,335
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
 
Interest income
 
 
12,387
Unallocated corporate expenses
 
 
(6,571)
Finance costs
 
 
(37,270)
 
 
 
_________
Profit before taxation
 
 
854,881
Income tax expense
 
 
(179,367)
 
 
 
_________
Profit for the period
 
 
675,514
 
 
 
_________
_________
 
Six months ended 30 June 2007
 
 
Hong Kong
PRC
Consolidated
 
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
REVENUE
 
 
 
External sales
360,354
18,693
379,047
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
RESULT
 
 
 
Segment Profit (loss)
196,199
(6,583)
189,616
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
 
Interest income
 
 
12,080
Unallocated corporate expenses
 
 
(10,287)
Finance costs
 
 
(33,905)
 
 
 
_________
Profit before taxation
 
 
157,504
Income tax expense
 
 
(56,236)
 
 
 
_________
Profit for the period
 
 
101,268
 
 
 
_________
_________
 

 

4. SEGMENT INFORMATION - continued
 
Business Segments
 
The Group is currently organised into two operating divisions - property development and property investment.
 
Principal activities are as follows:
 
Property development - development of properties
Property investment - rental of properties
 
Both divisions above are operating in Hong Kong and the PRC.
 
Six months ended 30 June 2008
 
Property
Property
 
 
 
development
investment
Eliminations
Consolidated
 
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
REVENUE
 
 
 
 
External sales
1,086,119
28,194
-
1,114,313
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
RESULT
 
 
 
 
Segment profit
437,129
449,206
-
886,335
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
 
Interest income
 
 
 
12,387
Unallocated corporate expenses
 
 
 
(6,571)
Finance costs
 
 
 
(37,270)
 
 
 
 
_________
Profit before taxation
 
 
 
854,881
Income tax expense
 
 
 
(179,367)
 
 
 
 
_________
Profit for the period
 
 
 
675,514
 
 
 
 
_________
_________
 

 

4. SEGMENT INFORMATION - continued
 
Six months ended 30 June 2007
 
Property
Property
 
 
 
development
investment
Eliminations
Consolidated
 
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
 
 
 
 
 
REVENUE
 
 
 
 
External sales
304,181
74,866
-
379,047
Inter-segment sales*
-
3,925
(3,925)
-
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
Total
304,181
78,791
(3,925)
379,047
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
* Inter-segment sales are charged at prevailing market rates.
 
RESULT
 
 
 
 
Segment (loss) profit
(21,151)
210,767
-
189,616
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest income
 
 
 
12,080
Unallocated corporate expenses
 
 
 
(10,287)
Finance costs
 
 
 
(33,905)
 
 
 
 
_________
Profit before taxation
 
 
 
157,504
Income tax expense
 
 
 
(56,236)
 
 
 
 
_________
Profit for the period
 
 
 
101,268
 
 
 
 
_________
_________
 
5. PROPERTY AND RELATED COSTS
 
 
Six months ended 30 June
 
 
2008
2007
 
HK$’000
HK$’000
 
 
 
Changes in properties held for sale/properties under
 
 
 development held for sale
660,518
88,691
Costs incurred on properties held for sale/properties under
 
 
 development held for sale
45,683
152,205
Selling and marketing expenses
79,315
70,389
Direct operating expenses from investment properties that
 
 
 generate rental income
15,814
5,832
 
_________
_________
 
801,330
317,117
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
 

 

5. PROPERTY AND RELATED COSTS - continued
 
Certain property related costs for the six months ended 30 June 2007 classified as other expenses or disclosed separately in the condensed consolidated income statement have been reclassified to conform with the current period’s presentation and are summarised as below:
 
As
 
 
 
originally
 
 
 
stated
Reclassifications
Total
 
HK$’000
HK$’000
HK$’000
 
(unaudited)
(unaudited)
(unaudited)
 
 
 
 
Property and related costs
240,896
76,221
317,117
Other expenses
139,244
(76,221)
63,023
 
_________
_________
_________
 
380,140
-
380,140
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
 
6. OTHER EXPENSES
 
Six months ended 30 June
 
2008
2007
 
HK$’000
HK$’000
Included in other expenses are:
 
 
 
 
 
Management fee paid/payable to a related company
50,245
47,540
Other legal and professional fees
6,194
2,269
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
 
7. FINANCE COSTS
 
Six months ended 30 June
 
2008
2007
 
HK$’000
HK$’000
Interest on:
 
 
 Bank borrowings wholly repayable within 5 years
44,943
46,619
 Bank borrowings not wholly repayable within 5 years
255
2,671
 
_________
_________
 
45,198
49,290
Less: Amounts capitalised to property development projects
(9,402)
(17,409)
 
_________
_________
 
35,796
31,881
Facilities charges
1,474
2,024
 
_________
_________
 
37,270
33,905
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
 

 

8. PROFIT BEFORE TAXATION
 
 
Six months ended 30 June
 
2008
2007
 
HK$’000
HK$’000
Profit before taxation has been arrived at after crediting:
 
 
 
 
 
Interest earned on bank deposits
9,436
8,405
Other interest income
2,951
3,675
 
_________
_________
 
12,387
12,080
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
 
9. INCOME TAX EXPENSE
 
Six months ended 30 June
 
2008
2007
 
HK$’000
HK$’000
 
 
 
Hong Kong Profits Tax
71,630
24,810
Deferred taxation
 
 
 Attributable to a change in tax rate
(9,514)
-
 Current period
117,251
31,426
 
_________
_________
 
179,367
56,236
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
 
Hong Kong Profits Tax is recognised based on management’s best estimate of the weighted average annual income tax rate expected for the full financial year. On 26 June 2008, the Hong Kong Legislative Council passed the Revenue Bill 2008 which includes the reduction in corporate profit tax rate by 1% to 16.5% effective from the year of assessment 2008-2009. The effect of such decrease has been reflected in measuring the current and deferred tax for the six months ended 30 June 2008. The estimated average annual tax rate used is 16.5% (2007: 17.5%) for the six months ended 30 June 2008.
 
Taxation arising in other jurisdictions is calculated at the rates prevailing in the relevant jurisdictions.
 
On 16 March 2007, the PRC government promulgated the Law of the People’s Republic of China on Enterprise Income Tax (the “New Law”) by Order No. 63. On 6 December 2007, the State Council of the PRC issued Implementation Regulations of the New Law. The New Law and Implementation Regulations will change the tax rate from 33% to 25% for subsidiaries in the PRC from 1 January 2008. The deferred tax balance has been adjusted to reflect the tax rates that are expected to apply to the respective periods when the asset is realised or the liability is settled.
 

 

 
10. DIVIDENDS
 
No dividend was paid or proposed during both periods, nor has any dividend been proposed since the balance sheet date.
 
 
11. EARNINGS PER SHARE
 
The calculation of earnings per share attributable to the Company’s shareholders is based on the following data:
 
Six months ended 30 June
 
2008
2007
 
HK$’000
HK$’000
 
 
 
Earnings for the purpose of earnings per share
671,318
107,314
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
 
 
Number of shares
 
 
 
Weighted average number of ordinary shares for the
 
 
 purpose of basic earnings per share
886,347,812
886,347,812
 
___________
___________
___________
___________
 
For the purpose of assessing the performance of the Group, management is of the view that the profit for the period should be adjusted for fair value changes on investment properties/properties held for sale upon transfer to investment properties and related deferred tax. A reconciliation of profits is as follows:
 
 
2008
2007
 
HK$’000
HK$’000
 
 
 
Profit attributable to the Company’s shareholders as shown
 
 
 in the condensed consolidated income statement
671,318
107,314
Increase in fair value of properties held for sale upon
 
 
 transfer to investment properties
(227,145)
-
Increase in fair value of investment properties
(407,630)
(178,570)
Deferred tax on changes in fair value of investment properties/
 
 
 properties held for sale upon transfer to investment properties
121,975
31,426
Effect of change in tax rate
(6,812)
-
 
_________
_________
Earnings (loss) excluding changes in fair value of investment
 
 
 properties net of deferred tax
151,706
(39,830)
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
 

 

12. MOVEMENTS IN INVESTMENT PROPERTIES, PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT AND PREPAID LEASE PAYMENTS
 
During the period, there was an exchange realignment of HK$76.5 million which contributed to an increase in the carrying value of investment properties brought forward from 1 January 2008.
 
In addition, certain properties with fair value of HK$431.0 million were transferred from properties for sales to investment properties upon the commencement of operating lease with third parties during the period. The difference between the fair value and the carrying value of these properties at the date of transfer of HK$227.1 million have been recognised directly in the condensed consolidated income statement.
 
The Group’s investment properties were revalued by independent professional valuers, Savills Valuation and Professional Services Limited, at 30 June 2008. The resulting increase in fair value of investment properties amounting to HK$407.6 million has been recognised directly in the condensed consolidated income statement.
 
During the period, the Group acquired property, plant and equipment at a cost of HK$54.2 million and capitalised amortisation of prepaid lease payments with a carrying value of HK$7.5 million to property under development included in property, plant and equipment.
 
 
13. RECEIVABLES, DEPOSITS AND PREPAYMENTS
 
 
30.6.2008
31.12.2007
 
HK$’000
HK$’000
 
 
 
Trade receivables
1,134
2,302
Other receivables, deposits paid and prepayments
205,511
333,349
 
_________
_________
 
206,645
335,651
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
 
14. AMOUNT DUE FROM A MINORITY SHAREHOLDER
 
The amount is unsecured, interest free and repayable on demand.
 
15. RESTRICTED BANK BALANCES AND DEPOSITS
 
Bank deposits of HK$123.0 million, being proceeds received upon the pre-sale of certain units of a property under development held for sale, were placed in several banks and would be used solely for tax payment and settlement of the construction cost of the related property. During the six months ended 30 June 2008, the Group paid construction cost of the related property of HK$21.2 million. In addition, there was an exchange realignment of HK$8.3 million which contributed to an increase in carrying value of restricted bank balances and deposits brought forward from 1 January 2008.

 

 
16. PAYABLES, DEPOSITS RECEIVED AND ACCRUED CHARGES
 
 
30.6.2008
31.12.2007
 
HK$’000
HK$’000
 
 
 
Trade payables
36,142
69,762
Other payables, deposits received and accrued charges
226,709
261,546
 
_________
_________
 
262,851
331,308
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
 
17. BORROWINGS
 
During the period, the Group repaid bank loans amounting to HK$995.2 million and obtained new bank loans in the amount of HK$774.1 million. In addition, there was an exchange realignment of HK$32.2 million which contributed to an increase in carrying value of borrowings brought forward from 1 January 2008. The new loans bear interest at 0.5% to 0.8% over Hong Kong Interbank Offered Rate and 5% over the lending rate of People’s Bank of China and are repayable within one year from the balance sheet date. The proceeds were used to finance the construction costs of properties under development and for working capital purpose.
 
 
18. SHARE CAPITAL
 
 
Number
Nominal
 
of shares
value
 
 
US$’000
 
 
 
Ordinary share of US$0.05 each
 
 
 
 
 
Authorised:
 
 
 
 
 
At 31 December 2007 and 30 June 2008
1,300,000,000
65,000
 
____________
____________
_________
_________
Issued and fully paid:
 
 
 
 
 
At 31 December 2007 and 30 June 2008
886,347,812
44,317
 
____________
____________
_________
_________
 
 
HK$’000
 
 
 
Shown in the condensed consolidated financial statements as
 
345,204
 
 
_________
_________
 

 

19. CAPITAL COMMITMENTS
 
At the balance sheet date, the Group had capital commitments in respect of expenditure to be incurred on properties under development included in property, plant and equipment in Hong Kong as follows:
 
 
30.6.2008
31.12.2007
 
HK$’000
HK$’000
 
 
 
Authorised but not contracted for
148,495
142,780
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
Contracted for but not provided for in the condensed
 
 
 consolidated financial statements
215,707
278,703
 
_________
_________
_________
_________
 
20. PLEDGE OF ASSETS
 
At the balance sheet date, the Group had the following mortgages and/or pledge over its assets to secure banking facilities granted to the Group:
 
(a) Fixed and floating charges on investment properties with an aggregate carrying value of HK$4,659,000,000 (31.12.2007: HK$5,492,690,000).
 
(b) Fixed and floating charges in properties under development held for sale with an aggregate carrying value of HK$591,216,000 (31.12.2007: HK$2,032,746,000).
 
(c) Fixed and floating charges on properties held for sale with an aggregate carrying value of HK$546,382,000 (31.12.2007: HK$293,484,000).
 
(d) Fixed and floating charges on properties under development included in property, plant and equipment with an aggregate carrying value of HK$216,088,000 (31.12.2007: HK$156,738,000).
 
(e) Prepaid lease payments with an aggregate carrying value of HK$558,850,000 (31.12.2007: HK$565,707,000).
 
(f) Bank deposits of HK$632,422,000 (31.12.2007: HK$317,772,000).
 
(g) Unlisted shares of certain subsidiaries with assets principally comprised of investment properties, properties under development held for sale, properties under development and prepaid lease payments included in (a), (b), (c), (d) and (e) above.
 

 

 
21. RELATED PARTY BALANCE AND TRANSACTIONS
 
(a) Other than the balance with a minority shareholder, which holds 45% equity interest in a subsidiary of the Group, as disclosed in the balance sheet and note 14, the Group had the following transactions with a wholly owned subsidiary of S E A Holdings Limited (“SEA”), an intermediate holding company of the Company, during the six months ended 30 June 2008:
 
(i) Rental income received of HK$4,268,000 (1.1.2007 to 30.6.2007: HK$3,455,000);
 
(ii) Management fees paid/payable of HK$57,675,000 (1.1.2007 to 30.6.2007: HK$68,197,000) in respect of investment property and development project management services of the Group’s property portfolio provided by this related company; and
 
(iii) For the six months ended 30 June 2007, the Group acquired a piece of leasehold land in Hong Kong for property development at a consideration of HK$7,000,000 from SEA by way of acquisition of the entire issued share capital of certain subsidiaries of SEA.
 
(b) Compensation of key management personnel
 
The director’s fees and remuneration paid/payable amounted to HK$1,708,000 (1.1.2007 to 30.6.2007: HK$6,335,000).
 
 
22. POST BALANCE SHEET EVENT
 
Subsequent to the balance sheet date, the Group acquired an investment property in the PRC at a consideration of HK$60.3 million from SEA by way of the acquisition of the entire issued share capital and shareholder’s loan of certain subsidiaries of SEA.
 
 
 
This information is provided by RNS
The company news service from the London Stock Exchange
 
END
 
 
IR SSDFDUSASEEU

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