Final Results
AXA Property Trust Ld
16 October 2007
To: RNS
Date: 16 October 2007
From: AXA Property Trust Limited
Results in respect of the Year Ended 30 June 2006
AXA Property Trust Limited Report & Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2007
Chairman's Statement
I am very pleased to report that your Company, AXA Property Trust Limited, has
now largely completed the acquisition of a quality European property portfolio
in accordance with its investment objectives. As at 30 June 2007 AXA Real Estate
Investment Managers UK Limited (the 'Real Estate Adviser') had completed the
purchase of properties in 19 locations across Europe at a gross cost of £127.3
million. Two further assets completed in August and September 2007 for a gross
price of £4.6 million.
During the year to 30 June 2007, the Company and its subsidiaries (together the
'Group') acquired properties at a gross cost of £65.6 million, as well as
investing
£10.1 million in a 12.0% interest in a Dutch office portfolio joint investment.
The Real Estate Adviser has, through its network of European offices, adopted a
highly selective acquisition policy. The result is a portfolio which provides a
good income yield, offers value and potential for growth.
The portfolio is well positioned across Europe to benefit from improving
property market fundamentals. The Group has significant holdings in Germany,
where the Real Estate Adviser believes greater growth prospects exist due to
economic and property cycles being less advanced than in other 'core' European
countries. Diversification has been achieved by selecting properties of
differing lot sizes, which are spread through European regions, further
diversified across property sectors and by tenant mix.
The net portfolio yield is approximately 7.0% (gross 7.8%).(1) This income
stream is well secured both in terms of tenant covenant and in duration, with an
average unexpired weighted lease length of 7.1 years.
Over the year market yield ratings improved significantly. Following the 'credit
crunch' and tighter debt markets the Real Estate Adviser reports that the
European real estate investment markets are in a state of uncertainty. However,
due to the strong fundamentals of the acquired portfolio the Adviser believes
the Company will benefit from further growth in the medium term.
Results
The Group generated a net profit of £8.0 million in the financial year to 30
June 2007. The net valuation uplift on properties was 4.2% (£7.9 million).
Excluding revaluation gains after deferred tax, as well as one-off costs
incurred as part of the set-up and investment phase, net profit was £4.1
million.
Net asset value at 30 June 2007 was £99.98 million (99.98 pence per ordinary
share). Translation losses reduced net asset value by £2.6 million as a result
of adverse movements in the Sterling/Euro exchange rate. Since the year end the
Sterling/Euro exchange rate has moved in the Company's favour.
Dividend
The Board has approved four quarterly dividends in respect of the financial year
to 30 June 2007 amounting to £4.25 million, representing a dividend yield of
4.25% of the issue price. This is below the distribution target of around 5.0%.
The lower yield reflects higher financing costs as a result of increases in the
Euribor interest rate over the past two years, as well as the expensing of a
greater proportion of one-off investment costs than envisaged. Now the Company
is fully invested it will benefit from the relatively high income yield on the
acquired portfolio, a substantive absence of purchase costs, and the start of
income growth from indexation and rental growth. While further interest rate
hikes are no longer anticipated, financing costs remain higher than expected and
are likely to diminish distributable income over the current year.
Prospects
With a robust investment portfolio in place your Company is now delivering a
stable income flow and has good growth prospects.
The Real Estate Adviser believes that in contrast to the UK market, values of
Continental investments, where there are still capital inflows, are far more
likely to grow in the coming year.
The Real Estate Adviser's on-the-ground management structure is well able to
protect the portfolio income flow and is working to enhance it. They are, as
well, working to maximise value enhancement through active management, with a
number of promising initiatives in progress. I am confident of your Company's
future.
Charles Hunter
Chairman
15 October 2007
Note 1: A detailed yield analysis is included in the Investment Manager's Report
on page 5.
Investment Manager's Report
Investment Manager
AXA Investment Managers UK Limited (the 'Investment Manager') is the UK
subsidiary of AXA Investment Managers, a dedicated asset manager within the AXA
Group. AXA Investment Managers is an innovative and fast-growing multi-expertise
investment manager with €566 billion of assets under management and 2,800
employees in 19 countries as at 30 June 2007.
AXA Real Estate Investment Managers UK Limited (the 'Real Estate Adviser') is
part of real estate management arm of AXA Investment Managers S.A. ('AXA REIM').
AXA REIM is a specialist in European real estate investment management with
approximately €41.7 billion of real estate assets under management in 15
European countries as at 30 June 2007, of which the Real Estate Adviser manages
approximately €10.9 billion.
Real Estate Market
The US sub-prime crisis has increased risk aversion in credit and lending
markets since July. This is ultimately expected to reduce the level of debt
capital targeting European real estate with the effect of subduing capital
growth. However, we expect this to be largely offset by the continuing recovery
of rental growth in the medium term. Despite the US sub-prime crisis, the
economic outlook for mainland Europe remains quite positive for both 2007 and
2008, according to consensus forecasts. Indeed, the crisis has resulted in a
slightly more benign short term interest rate environment as the monetary
authorities are keen to avoid aggravating risk aversion in the credit and
lending markets by increasing interest rates further at this stage. Overall, the
short term outlook remains one of low inflation coupled with sustainable
positive economic expansion.
The Eurozone area remains one of the more attractive regions for real estate
investment in the next one to two years, as interest rates remain relatively low
at 4.0% and income yields are still attractive. In addition, there is increasing
evidence that economic recovery is being translated into positive rental growth.
There also remains an overhang of existing capital in the market from earlier
fund raising initiatives (prior to the US sub-prime crisis) which is still
targeting real estate and, in particular, the weight of money will continue to
support real estate prices in the short term.
Retail
Continental European retail is expected to deliver solid returns which are
likely to be less volatile than for other sectors. Consumer confidence remains
fairly buoyant due to relatively strong employment growth across Europe and
falling levels of unemployment. In Germany, the now widely recognised economic
recovery is attracting much international capital seeking high current income
yields. This interest is expected to continue to put downward pressure on
yields, leading to capital growth, although at a lower rate than anticipated
prior to the US sub-prime crisis.
Office
The office sector is expected to perform quite favourably during the next few
years, as positive rental growth helps boost returns. In particular the German
and Dutch office markets look set to continue to recover as both economies
strengthen. Increased occupier demand in the first half of 2007, coupled with
falling vacancy rates, has put upward pressure on rents.
Industrial
Industrial income returns are typically a little higher than for the other main
sectors. The best performance prospects are expected from high quality logistics
parks and distribution centres located near key strategic transport hubs.
Industrial returns in Germany could benefit from economic recovery, although
rental growth is expected to remain largely flat across Europe as industry
strives to cut costs.
Investment Activity
The Company has now completed the investment of funds at the initial 35% level
of gearing. By 30 June 2007 the Group had completed the acquisition of 19 real
estate purchases valued at £134.1 million. In addition the Group holds a 12%
interest in a joint investment which has acquired a £210 million Dutch office
portfolio. Two further asset transactions after the quarter end at a gross price
of £4.6 million.
The Board has approved a modest increase in gearing to 45% which, together with
valuation gains in the portfolio, provides the opportunity to enhance the
portfolio's return by making a further property acquisition. The property
portfolio as at 30 June 2007 has been acquired at a cost of £127.3 million,
including acquisition costs of £6.3 million. The portfolio was independently
valued at £134.1 million as at 30 June 2007.
The Group plans to develop two sites already held in the portfolio. The sites
adjoin existing retail units and development was envisaged at acquisition.
Investment Name Country Sector Current Current % of total
--------------- ----------- ----------- Gross -Net assets (less
Rental Rental current
Yield (1) Yield (2) liabilities)
---------- -------- ---------
Phoenix
Centre, Fuerth Germany Retail 7.66% 6.86% 12.7%
--------------- ----------- ----------- ---------- -------- ---------
Bahnhofstrasse
, Rothenburg Germany Retail 6.94% 6.36% 11.9%
--------------- ----------- ----------- ---------- -------- ---------
Via Lega
Lombarda,
Curno Italy Leisure 6.98% 6.59% 8.5%
--------------- ----------- ----------- ---------- -------- ---------
SS Bergamina,
Agnadello Italy Industrial 7.67% 7.20% 7.0%
--------------- ----------- ----------- ---------- -------- ---------
Am Birkfeld,
Dasing Germany Industrial 8.75% 7.83% 5.3%
--------------- ----------- ----------- ---------- -------- ---------
Smakterweg,
Venray Netherlands Industrial 9.49% 8.36% 5.0%
--------------- ----------- ----------- ---------- -------- ---------
Bahnhofstrasse
, Karben Germany Retail 7.61% 6.75% 4.9%
--------------- ----------- ----------- ---------- -------- ---------
Industriestras
se, Montabaur Germany Retail 6.90% 6.07% 4.9%
--------------- ----------- ----------- ---------- -------- ---------
Rudnitzer
Chaussee,
Bernau Germany Retail 9.81% 8.75% 4.6%
--------------- ----------- ----------- ---------- -------- ---------
Keyser Center,
Antwerp Belgium Retail 7.17% 6.73% 3.8%
--------------- ----------- ----------- ---------- -------- ---------
Other - - - - 19.7%
--------------- ----------- ----------- ---------- -------- ---------
Total Property
Portfolio 7.79% 7.03% 88.3%
--------------- ----------- ----------- ---------- -------- ---------
Porto Kali
Investment(3) Netherlands 6.0%
--------------- office ----------- ---------- -------- ---------
-----------
Other non
current assets
and net
current assets 5.7%
---------------------------------- ---------- -------- ---------
Total assets
less current
liabilities 100.0%
---------------------------------- ---------- -------- ---------
Note 1: Gross rental yield excluding property and acquisition costs
Note 2: Net rental yield includes acquisition costs and an estimated 5% of gross
rent as property operating costs.
Note 3: Porto Kali investment value of £9.1 million is a non-current shareholder
loan.
The Fund investment portfolio has the following geographic, sector and income
profile.
Geographic Analysis
at 30 June 2007 by market value1
Within Germany, properties are located in West Germany and Berlin and split as
follows: 64.2% in Bavaria, 14.3% in Hessia, 7.7% in Rhineland-Palatinate, 7.2%
in Brandburg, 2.8% in Saxony Anhalt, 2.0% in Saxony and 1.8% in Berlin.
Sector distribution
at 30 June 2007 by market value1
The Group's tenant covenant profile is strong, with the majority of tenants
rated Grade A or B. The weighted effective unexpired lease length for completed
transactions as at 30 June 2007 was 7.1 years, with 57.2% of income secured for
a term of over five years. Rental income from Grade A covenants represents 66.6%
of income and has a weighted unexpired lease length of 9.5 years. Vacant space
in the portfolio as at 30 June 2007, measured using market rent, represented
5.2% of the total gross rental income. 85% of vacant space within the property
portfolio relates to Porto Kali, a 'working' portfolio with a focus on capital
value growth rather than rental income.
Covenant Strength Analysis at 30 June 2007
Grade A 66.5% Nationally and internationally recognised companies
Grade B 14.7% Regionally recognised companies
Grade C 13.5% Locally recognised companies
Vacant 5.2% Calculated using market rent
Financing
At 30 June 2007, the Group had drawn £47.8 million of its loan facilities,
resulting in gearing at 32.3% of the value of the Group's property portfolio
(39.7% including its share of the external financing in Porto Kali). After the
year end the Group completed two further acquisitions for a gross cost of £4.6
million (€6.8 million), thereby increasing gearing to 34.4% (41.2% including
Porto Kali external finance).
The interest rate risk on the four remaining years of the loan facility is
hedged via interest rate swaps for three years and interest rate caps in the
final year. Cross currency swaps have been executed to cover quarterly net Euro
cash flows to the value of £0.6 million (€0.9 million) for five years. Further
currency hedging will be put in place in the coming months, with 20% of the
Group's net Euro cash flow left floating to provide flexibility, reflecting the
potential variability of cash flow. The status of interest rate, currency and
equity hedging is regularly reviewed by the Investment Manager to adjust for
variables such as property valuations and predicted cash flows.
To date the net investment in Euros ('Euro equity') has not been hedged against
exchange rate fluctuations. The Board is currently closely evaluating this
position.
Outlook
The principal investment phase of the Company's life is now complete. Going
forward, the Investment Manager will concentrate on asset management initiatives
intended to add value to the property portfolio and positively impact net
asset value.
The opportunity to selectively buy additional properties will be possible if the
Group maintains its 45% gearing and the portfolio market value increases.
Finally, the Group may undertake selective disposals from within the portfolio,
dependent upon the identification of sufficiently attractive reinvestment
opportunities and the ability to realise maximum value of the current property
portfolio.
Due to the strong fundamentals of the acquired portfolio we remain confident
that the Company will benefit from growth over the coming year.
Board of Directors
Charles Hunter (Chairman) is a non executive director of a number of
organisations involved in property investment, including, PIL Group Limited,
Protego Real Estate Funds plc and is on the Supervisory Board of Schroder Exempt
Property Unit Trust. He is also a trustee of St Monica Trust. He has around 30
years of experience in property investment, principally in UK commercial
property. During this time, he was the Head of Property Investment of Insight
Investment (formerly Clerical Medical Investment Group) and also was the
Property Director of the investment management subsidiaries of The National
Mutual of Australasia group in the United Kingdom. Mr Hunter is a Fellow of the
Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and a member of the Investment Property
Forum. He is resident in the United Kingdom.
Richard Ray is Managing Director of AXA Real Estate Investment Managers Belgium
S.A. He has around 25 years of property experience, especially in the commercial
real estate markets in Belgium and in other parts of Europe. Prior to joining
AXA, he was the Head of Investment at ATIS REAL August Thouard S.A. From 1987 to
2000, he worked with CB Richard Ellis S.A. (formerly Richard Ellis S.A.), first
as an Investment and Valuation Surveyor and then as a Manager in the Investment
Department. In 1994, Mr Ray was appointed Director of Investment, Valuation and
Research. He is a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and
certified as a 'Titulaire' of the Belgian Institut Professionel de l'immobilier
(Real Estate Institute). He is resident in Belgium.
Stephane Monier has over 15 years of experience in fixed income, foreign
exchange markets and asset allocation. Mr Monier is currently the Chief
Investment Officer for European Fixed Income at Fortis Investments responsible
for various sectors including money market, government bonds and corporate
bonds. Prior to joining Fortis he was Head of Fixed Income and Currency in the
Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) and he spent seven years in JP Morgan
Investment Management as a Fixed Income Manager both in London and Paris. Mr
Monier has a Masters Degree in Science from INAPG (Paris) and a Masters Degree
in International Finance from HEC Graduate School of Business (Jouy en Josas)
(France). He is also a CFA charterholder. He is resident in the United Kingdom.
John Marren is a Director of Northern Trust International Fund Administration
Services (Guernsey) Limited where he is Head of Client Servicing. Prior to
joining Northern Trust International Fund Administration Services (Guernsey)
Limited in 1992, he worked for KPMG in Guernsey where he was responsible for the
audit of a portfolio of entities in the finance industry. Mr Marren currently
holds a number of non-executive board appointments in fund management and
investment companies including several real estate funds. He has a Bachelor of
Commerce Degree from University College Galway in Ireland, is a Fellow of the
Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland and a Member of the Institute of
Bankers in Ireland. He is resident in Guernsey.
Gavin Farrell is qualified as a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and
Wales, a French Avocat and an Advocate of the Royal Court of Guernsey. He is a
partner at
Ozannes, Advocates & Notaries Public in Guernsey and specialises in
international and structured finance and collective investment schemes. Mr
Farrell holds a number of directorships in investment and captive insurance
companies. He is resident in Guernsey.
Report of the Directors
The Directors present their report and audited Financial Statements of the Group
and Company for the year ended 30 June 2007.
Principal Activity
AXA Property Trust Limited (the 'Company') is a Guernsey registered closed-ended
property investment company listed on the London Stock Exchange. Trading in the
Company's ordinary shares commenced on 18 April 2005.
Results and Dividends
The results for the period are set out in the attached accounts.
The Company has paid quarterly dividends related to the year ended 30 June 2007
as follows:
Payment date Rate per Share
----------------------------------------
First interim 4 September 2006 1.45p
----------------------------------------
Second interim 15 December 2006 1.25p
----------------------------------------
Third interim 28 February 2007 1.00p
----------------------------------------
Fourth interim 25 May 2007 1.00p
----------------------------------------
A further dividend of £1,000,000 (1.00 pence per share) was approved on 2 August
2007. The ex-dividend date was 8 August 2007 and the payment date was 29 August
2007.
Listing Requirements
The Company considers that throughout the year it has complied (and intends to
continue to comply) with the conditions applicable to property investment
companies set out in paragraph 15.5.15R of the new Listing Rules.
Directors
The Directors who held office during the year as at 30 June 2007 were:
C. J. Hunter (Chairman)
G. J. Farrell
R. G. Ray
J. M. Marren
S. C. Monier
The Directors have no interest in the shares of the Company.
Mr Marren is a Director of the Administrator, Northern Trust International Fund
Administration Services (Guernsey) Limited.
Mr Farrell is a partner of the Company's Guernsey legal advisers, Ozannes,
Advocates and Notaries Public.
Mr Ray is Managing Director of AXA Real Estate Investment Manager Belgium S.A.
Mr Hunter and Mr Ray are also Directors of the three direct subsidiaries of AXA
Property Trust Limited.
Biographical Details of each of the Directors are shown on page 9. An evaluation
of the performance of individual Directors was carried out during the year which
concluded that the Board is performing satisfactorily in the six areas reviewed:
Board composition and meeting process, Board information, training, Board
dynamics, Board accountability and effectiveness and an evaluation of the
Chairman. During the year the Directors of the Company received the following
emoluments in the form of fees:
C. J. Hunter £20,000
G. J. Farrell £15,000
R. G. Ray £15,000
J. M. Marren £15,000
S. C. Monier £15,000
£80,000
The Directors of the subsidiaries of the Group received emoluments amounting to
£17,718 (2006: £7,218). Total fees paid to Directors of the Group were £97,718
(2006:£95,548).
Management
AXA Investment Managers UK Limited (the 'Investment Manager') provides
management services to the Company. A summary of the contract between the
Company and the Investment Manager in respect of the management services
provided is given in note 3 to the accounts. During the year, the Board has
reviewed the appropriateness of the Investment Manager's appointment. In
carrying out the review the Board considered the investment performance of the
Company during its accounting year and the capability and resources of the
Investment Manager to deliver satisfactory investment performance. It also
considered the length of the notice period of the investment management contract
and the fees payable to the Investment Manager, together with the standard of
the other services provided. Following this review, it is the Directors' opinion
that the continuing appointment of the Investment Manager on the terms agreed is
in the interests of shareholders as a whole.
Significant Shareholdings
Shareholders with holdings more than 3% of the issued ordinary shares of the
Company as at 30 September 2007 were as follows:
Number of shares Percentage of share capital
--------------------- --------------------- --------
HSBC Global Custody Nominee
(UK) Limited 33,777,184 33.77
--------------------- --------------------- --------
Nutraco Nominees Limited 14,124,938 14.12
--------------------- --------------------- --------
Quilter Nominees Limited 10,707,745 10.70
--------------------- --------------------- --------
Nortrust Nominees Limited 4,891,725 4.89
--------------------- --------------------- --------
Chase Nominees Limited 4,682,946 4.68
--------------------- --------------------- --------
Ferlim Nominees Limited 4,096,765 4.09
--------------------- --------------------- --------
Statement of Directors' Responsibilities
The Directors are responsible for preparing the Financial Statements in
accordance with applicable law and International Financial Reporting Standards.
Company law requires the Directors to prepare Financial Statements for each
financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the
Company and of the profit or loss of the Company for that period. In preparing
these Financial Statements, the Directors are required to:
n select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently;
n make judgments and estimates which are reasonable and prudent;
n state whether applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject to
any material departures disclosed and explained in the Financial Statements; and
n prepare the Financial Statements on the going concern basis unless it is
inappropriate to presume that the Company will continue in business.
The Directors are responsible for keeping proper accounting records that
disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the
Company and enable them to ensure that the Financial Statements comply with the
Companies (Guernsey) Law 1994. They are also responsible for safeguarding the
assets of the Company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention
and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
Corporate Governance
Introduction
As a closed-ended investment company registered in Guernsey, the Company is
eligible for exemption from the requirements of the Combined Code on Corporate
Governance (the 'Code') issued by the Financial Reporting Council, but must
disclose whether or not it complies with the corporate governance regime of its
country of incorporation and the significant ways in which its actual practices
differ from the Code. In the absence of a formal corporate governance regime in
its country of incorporation, the Board has put in place a framework for
corporate governance which it believes is suitable for an investment company and
which enables the Company voluntarily to comply with the main requirements of
the Code, which sets out principles of good governance and a code of best
practice.
Arrangements in respect of corporate governance have therefore been made by the
Board, which it believes are appropriate for the Company. Except as disclosed in
the following two paragraphs, the Company complied throughout the period with
the provisions of the Code. Since all the Directors are non-executive the
provisions of the Code in respect of Directors' remuneration are not relevant to
the Company except in so far as they relate to non-executive Directors. The
Company does not have a remuneration committee.
In view of its non-executive nature and the requirement of the Articles of
Association that all Directors retire by rotation at least every three years,
the Board considers that it is not appropriate for the Directors to be appointed
for a specified term as recommended by Code provision A.7.2, or for a Senior
Independent Director to be appointed as recommended by Code provision A.3.3, or
for there to be a Nomination Committee as recommended by Code provision A.4.1.
The Board consists solely of non-executive Directors of which Mr Hunter is
Chairman. With the exception of Mr Ray all Directors are considered by the Board
to be independent of the Company's Investment Manager.
New Directors receive an induction from the Managers and Secretary on joining
the Board, and all directors receive other relevant training as necessary.
The Company has no executive directors or employees. All matters, including
strategy, investment and dividend policies, gearing, and corporate governance
procedures, are reserved for the approval of the Board of Directors. The Board
currently meets at least quarterly and receives full information on the
Company's investment performance, assets, liabilities and other relevant
information in advance of Board meetings.
The Audit Committee, chaired by Mr Marren, operates within clearly defined terms
of reference and comprises all the Directors except Mr Ray. The duties of the
Audit Committee in discharging its responsibilities include reviewing the Annual
and Interim Accounts, the system of internal control and the terms of the
appointment of the auditors together with their remuneration.
It is also the forum through which the auditors report to the Board of Directors
and meets at least twice yearly. The objectivity of the auditors is reviewed by
the Audit Committee which also reviews the terms under which the external
auditors are appointed to perform non-audit services. The Committee reviews the
scope and results of the audit, its cost effectiveness and the independence and
objectivity of the auditors, with particular regard to non-audit fees. Such fees
amounted to £28,427 (2006: £8,953) for the Company for the year ended 30 June
2007 and related to a review of the interim financial information which is
normal practice. Notwithstanding such services the Audit Committee considers
KPMG Channel Islands Limited to be independent of the Company and that the
provision of such non-audit services is not a threat to the objectivity and
independence of the conduct of the audit.
The Management Engagement Committee, chaired by Mr Hunter, comprises the full
Board, except Mr Ray, and reviews the appropriateness of the Investment
Manager's continuing appointment together with the terms and conditions thereof
on a regular basis.
The table below sets out the number of Board meetings held during the year ended
30 June 2007 and the number of meetings attended by each Director.
Individual Directors may, at the expense of the Company, seek independent
professional advice on any matter that concerns them in the furtherance of their
duties. The Company maintains appropriate Directors' and Officers' liability
insurance. After making enquiries, and bearing in mind the nature of the
Company's business and assets, the Directors consider that the Company has
adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable
future. For this reason, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in
preparing the accounts.
Internal Controls
The Board is responsible for the Company's system of internal control and for
reviewing its effectiveness. The Board has therefore established an ongoing
process designed to meet the particular needs of the Company in managing the
risks to which it is exposed, consistent with the guidance provided by the
Turnbull Committee.
Such review procedures have been in place throughout the financial year and up
to the date of approval of the Annual Report, and the Board is satisfied with
their effectiveness. By their nature these procedures can provide reasonable,
but not absolute, assurance against material misstatement or loss. At each Board
meeting the Board monitors the investment performance of the Company in
comparison to its stated objective and against comparable companies. The Board
also reviews the Company's activities since the last Board meeting to ensure
that the Investment Manager adheres to the agreed investment policy and approved
investment guidelines and, if necessary, approves changes to such policy and
guidelines. In addition, at each quarterly Board meeting, the Board receives
reports from the Secretary in respect of compliance matters and duties performed
on behalf of the Company.
The Board has reviewed the need for an internal audit function. The Board has
decided that the systems and procedures employed by the Investment Manager and
the Secretary, including their internal audit functions, provide sufficient
assurance that a sound system of internal control, which safeguards the
Company's assets, is maintained. An internal audit function specific to the
Company is therefore considered unnecessary.
Relations with Shareholders
The Board welcomes shareholders' views and places great importance on
communication with its shareholders. The Board receives regular reports on the
views of shareholders and the Chairman and other Directors are available to meet
shareholders if required. The Annual General Meeting of the Company provides a
forum for shareholders to meet and discuss issues with the Directors and
Investment Manager of the Company.
Directors' Authority to Buy Back Shares
The authority of the Company to make market purchases of up to 14.99% of the
issued ordinary share capital was renewed by way of a Special Resolution at the
Annual General Meeting held on 5 October 2006 until the earlier of the Annual
General Meeting in 2007 and 31 December 2007. Any buy back of shares will be
made subject to Guernsey law and within guidelines established from time to time
by the Board (which will take into account the income and cash flow requirements
of the Company) and the making and timing of any buy backs will be at the
absolute discretion of the Board. Purchases of shares will only be made through
the market for cash at prices below the prevailing net asset value of the shares
where the Directors believe such purchases will enhance shareholder value.
Such purchases will also only be made in accordance with the rules of the UK
Listing Authority which set a cap on the price that the Company can pay.
The Company passed a Special Resolution to cancel the amount standing to the
credit of its share premium account on 13 April 2005. On 24 June 2005 the Royal
Court of Guernsey confirmed the reduction of capital by way of cancellation of
the Company's share premium account. The amount cancelled, being £100 million,
has been credited as a distributable reserve established in the Company's books
of account and shall be available as distributable profits to be used for all
purposes permitted under Guernsey law, including the payment of dividends.
Independent auditors
KPMG Channel Islands Limited have expressed their willingness to continue in
office as auditors and a resolution proposing their re-appointment will be
submitted at the Annual General Meeting.
Charles Hunter John Marren
Chairman Director
15 October 2007 15 October 2007
Independent Auditors Report
We have audited the Group and parent company Financial Statements (the
'Financial Statements') of AXA Property Trust Limited (the 'Company') for the
year ended 30 June 2007 which comprise the Consolidated and Company Income
Statements, the Consolidated and Company Balance Sheets, the Consolidated and
Company Cash Flow Statements, the Consolidated and Company Statements of Changes
in Equity and the related notes. These Financial Statements have been prepared
under the accounting policies set out therein.
This report is made solely to the Company's members, as a body, in accordance
with section 64 of The Companies (Guernsey) Law, 1994. Our audit work has been
undertaken so that we might state to the Company's members those matters we are
required to state to them in an auditor's report and for no other purpose. To
the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility
to anyone other than the Company and the Company's members as a body, for our
audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.
Respective Responsibilities of Directors and Auditors
The Directors are responsible for preparing the Directors' Report and the
Financial Statements in accordance with applicable Guernsey law and
International Financial Reporting Standards as set out in the Statement of
Directors' Responsibilities on page 13.
Our responsibility is to audit the Financial Statements in accordance with
relevant legal and regulatory requirements and International Standards on
Auditing (UK and Ireland). We report to you our opinion as to whether the
Financial Statements give a true and fair view and are properly prepared in
accordance with The Companies (Guernsey) Law, 1994. We also report to you if, in
our opinion, the Company has not kept proper accounting records, or if we have
not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.
We read the Directors' Report and consider the implications for our report if we
become aware of any apparent misstatements within it.
We read the other information accompanying the Financial Statements and consider
whether it is consistent with those statements. We consider the implications for
our report if we become aware of any apparent misstatements or material
inconsistencies with the Financial Statements.
Basis of Audit Opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing
(UK and Ireland) issued by the Auditing Practices Board. An audit includes
examination, on a test basis, of evidence relevant to the amounts and
disclosures in the Financial Statements. It also includes an assessment of the
significant estimates and judgements made by the Directors in the preparation of
the Financial Statements, and of whether the accounting policies are appropriate
to the Company's circumstances, consistently applied and adequately disclosed.
We planned and performed our audit so as to obtain all the information and
explanations which we considered necessary in order to provide us with
sufficient evidence to give reasonable assurance that the Financial Statements
are free from material misstatement, whether caused by fraud or other
irregularity or error. In forming our opinion we also evaluated the overall
adequacy of the presentation of information in the Financial Statements.
Opinion
In our opinion the Financial Statements:
•give a true and fair view, in accordance with International Financial
Reporting Standards, of the state of the Group's and the Company's affairs
as at 30 June 2007 and of the Group's and the Company's profit for the
period then ended; and
•have been properly prepared in accordance with the The Companies
(Guernsey) Law, 1994.
KPMG Channel Islands Limited
Chartered Accountants
Guernsey
15 October 2007
Income Statement
Company and Consolidated Income Statements for the Year ended 30 June 2007
Company Group
Period from Period from
Year ended 5 April 2005 Year ended 5 April 2005
------------- -------- --------- to --------- to
30 June 2007 30 June 2006 30 June 2007 30 June 2006
Note £000s £000s £000s £000s
Gross rental
income 4 - - 7,607 1,864
------------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Service charge
income - - 772 79
------------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Property
operating
expenses - - (1,434) (190)
------------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Net rental and
related income - - 6,945 1,753
------------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Interest
income
from
certificates
of 219 3,721 492 3,750
deposit and -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
bank deposits
-------------
Interest
income
from loans to 7,513 1,588 - -
subsidiaries -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
-------------
Realised loss
on disposal of
investments - - (28) -
------------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Net foreign
exchange
(losses)/gains (2,582) 458 9 -
------------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Net investment
income 5,150 5,767 473 3,750
------------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Gain on
derivatives - - 34 -
------------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Valuation
gains
on investment - - 8,278 701
properties -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
-------------
Valuation
losses on
investment
properties - - (377) (414)
------------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Loss on fair
value of
financial
assets 9 - - (1,016) -
------------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Net valuation
gains on
investment
properties - - 6,919 287
------------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Distribution
gain 2(p), 22 3,946 7,478 - -
------------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Formation
expenses - (1,019) - (1,019)
------------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Investment
management (167) - (1,084) (208)
fees -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
-------------
Sponsor's fees (125) - (125) -
------------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Administrative
expenses 5 (571) (362) (1,926) (1,576)
------------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Finance costs (697) - (938) -
------------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Total expenses (1,560) (1,381) (4,073) (2,803)
------------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Other income - 10 1 10
------------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Profit before
tax 7,536 11,874 10,265 2,997
------------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Income tax
expense 16 - - (2,314) (42)
------------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Profit for the
year/period 7,536 11,874 7,951 2,955
------------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Basic and
diluted
earnings per
ordinary share
(pence) 7.95 2.95
------------- -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
The accompanying notes on pages 25 to 40----- form an integral part of these
Financial Statements.
Statement of Changes in Equity
Company Statement of Changes in Equity for the Year ended 30 June 2007
Share Revaluation Capital Hedging Revenue Distributable Total
------------ ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
premium reserve reserve reserve reserve reserve
------------ ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
£000s £000s £000s £000s £000s £000s £000s
------------ ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
Note 20 Note 20 Note 20 Note 20
------------ ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
Balance at 1
July 2006 - - 7,478 - 846 99,019 107,343
------------ ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
Movements
during the ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
period:
------------
Net profit
for - - 3,946 - 3,590 - 7,536
the year ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
------------
Dividends - - - - (4,436) (264) (4,700)
paid ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
------------
Gain on
derivatives - - - 338 - - 338
------------ ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
Balance at 30
June 2007 - - 11,424 338 - 98,755 110,517
------------ ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
Company
Statement of ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
Changes in
Equity for
the period
from 5 April
2005 to 30
June 2006
------------
------------ ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
Share Revaluation Capital Hedging Revenue Distributable Total
------------ ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
premium reserve reserve reserve reserve reserve
------------ ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
£000s £000s £000s £000s £000s £000s £000s
------------ ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
Note 20 Note 20 Note 20 Note 20
------------ ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
Balance at 5 - - - - - - -
April 2005 ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
------------
------------ ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
Movements
during the ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
period:
------------
Share premium
on issue 100,000 - - - - - 100,000
------------ ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
Cancellation
of share
premium (100,000) - - - - 100,000 -
------------ ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
Placing fees - - - - - (981) (981)
------------ ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
Net profit
for - - 7,478 - 4,396 - 11,874
the period ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
------------
Dividends - - - - (3,550) - (3,550)
paid ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
------------
------------ ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
Balance at 30
June 2006 - - 7,478 - 846 99,019 107,343
------------ ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------ ------------ --------
The accompanying notes on pages 25 to 40 form an integral part of these
Financial Statements.
Statement of Changes in Equity
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity for the Year ended 30 June 2007
Share Revaluation----- Hedging Revenue Distributable Foreign Total
premium reserve reserve reserve reserve exchange
reserve
£000s £000s £000s £000s £000s £000s £000s
Note 20 Note 20 Note 20 Note 20
Balance at 1
July 2006 - 287 - - 98,137 446 98,870
Movements
during
the year:
Net profit
for - 6,919 - 1,032 - - 7,951
the year
Fair value
of - - 412 - - - 412
derivatives
Reserve on
acquisition
of subsidary - 20 - - - - 20
Dividends - - - (1,032) (3,668) - (4,700)
paid
Foreign
exchange
translation
losses - - - - (2,574) (2,574)
Balance at
30 - 7,226 412 - 94,469 (2,128) 99,979
June 2007
Consolidated
Statement of
Changes in
Equity for
the period
from 5 April
2005 to 30
June 2006
Share Revaluation Hedging Revenue Distributable Foreign Total
premium reserve reserve reserve reserve exchange
reserve
£000s £000s £000s £000s £000s £000s £000s
Note 20 Note 20 Note 20 Note 20
Balance at 5 - - - - - -
April 2005
Movements
during
the period:
Share
premium 100,000 - - - - - 100,000
on issue
Cancellation
of
share (100,000) - - - 100,000 - -
premium
Placing fees - - - - (981) - (981)
Net profit
for - 287 - 2,668 - - 2,955
the period
Dividends - - - (2,668) (882) - (3,550)
paid
Foreign
exchange
translation
gains - - - - - 446 446
Balance at
30 - 287 - - 98,137 446 98,870
June 2006
The accompanying notes on pages 25 to 40 form an integral part of these
Financial Statements.
Balance Sheet
Balance Sheets as at 30 June 2007
Company Group
2007 2006 2007 2006
Note £000s £000s £000s £000s
Non-current
assets
Investment
properties 7 - - 134,111 77,442
Property,
plant and - - 2 3
equipment
Investment in
subsidiary
undertakings 23 2,659 1,646 - -
Intra group
loans 10 137,561 94,243 - -
receivable
Non-Group loan
receivables 11 - - 9,109 -
Derivative
financial
instruments 19 355 - 465 -
Other 9 - - - -
investments
Other assets 7&15 232 171 523 344
Deferred tax 16 - - 975 349
assets
Current assets
Cash and cash
equivalents 12 1,108 2,187 6,158 22,077
Intra group
loans 10 5,541 7,581 - -
receivable
Trade and
other 13 3,457 1,616 3,572 6,095
receivables
Total assets 150,913 107,444 154,915 106,310
Current
liabilities
Trade and
other 14 582 101 3,941 7,075
payables
Non-current
liabilities
Deferred tax
liability 16 - - 3,215 365
Long-term loan 15 39,796 - 47,762 -
Derivative
financial
instruments 19 18 - 18 -
Total 40,396 101 54,936 7,440
liabilities
Net Assets 110,517 107,343 99,979 98,870
Equity
Share capital 17 - - - -
Reserves 20 110,517 107,343 99,979 98,870
Total equity 110,517 107,343 99,979 98,870
Number of
ordinary 100,000,000 100,000,000 100,000,000 100,000,000
shares
Net asset
value per 99.98p 98.87p
ordinary share
The accompanying notes on pages 25 to 40 form an integral part of these
Financial Statements.
Chairman Director
15 October 2007 15 October 2007
Statement of Cash Flows
Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended 30 June 2007
Company Group
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Period from Period from
Year ended 5 April 2005 to Year ended 5 April 2005 to
30 June 2007 30 June 2006 30 June 2007 30 June 2006
£000s £000s £000s £000s
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Operating activities
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Profit before tax 7,536 11,874 10,265 2,997
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Adjustments for:
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Unrealised gain on
revaluation of
investment
property and
derivatives - - (6,919) (287)
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Unrealised gain on
revaluation of
loans to fair
value (3,946) (7,478) -
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Decrease/(Increase
) in trade and
other receivables (152) (1,616) 1,007 (1,133)
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Increase in trade
and other payables 245 101 1,612 1,265
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Investment income (7,513) (3,056) (184) (2,769)
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Bank interest (219) (665) (307) (694)
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Interest expense 697 - 937 -
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Foreign exchange
loss 2,582 19 9 -
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Other 36 - 68----- -
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Net cash
generated/(absorbe
d) from operations (734) (821) 6,488 (621)
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Investment income
received 5,966 3,056 301 3,056
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Interest paid (460) - (620) (18)
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Interest received 219 664 184 712
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Tax paid - - (39) (17)
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Net cash inflow
from operating
activities 4,991 2,899 6,314 3,112
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Investing activities
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Investment in
subsidiaries (1,013) (1,646) - -
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Acquisition of
investment
properties - - (57,478) (76,598)
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Acquisition of
other investments - - (24) (173)
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Proceeds from
disposal of
subsidiary - - 1,583 -
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Loans to group
companies (37,473) (94,346) - -
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Loan to third
party - - (9,109) -
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Acquisition of
certificates of
deposit - (167,000) - (167,000)
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Proceeds from sale
of certificates of
deposit - 167,000 - 167,000
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Other - - - (5)
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Net cash outflow
from investing
activities (38,486) (95,992) (65,028) (76,776)
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Financing activities
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Proceeds from the
issue of shares - 100,000 - 100,000
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Finance costs (98) (171) (217) (171)
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Calyon loan
facility 39,796 - 47,762 -
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Issue costs - (981) - (981)
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Dividends paid (4,700) (3,550) (4,700) (3,550)
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Net cash inflow
from financing
activities 34,998 95,298 42,845 95,298
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Effect of exchange
rate fluctuations
on cash held (2,582) (18) (50) 443
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
(Decrease)/Increas
e in cash and cash
equivalents (1,079) 2,187 (15,919) 22,077
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Cash and cash
equivalents at
start of
year/period 2,187 - 22,077 -
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
Cash and cash
equivalents at 30
June 2007 1,108 2,187 6,158 22,077
----------------- --------- ---------- --------- ----------
The accompanying notes on pages 25 to 40 form an integral part of these
Financial Statements.
Notes to the Financial Statements
1. Operations
AXA Property Trust Limited (the 'Company') is a limited liability, closed-ended
investment company incorporated in Guernsey. The Company invests in commercial
properties in Europe which are held through its subsidiaries. The Consolidated
Financial Statements of the Company for the year ended 30 June 2007 comprise the
Financial Statements of the Company and its subsidiaries (together referred to
as the 'Group').
2. Significant accounting policies
(a) Statement of compliance
The Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with
International Financial Reporting Standards ('IFRS') issued by, or adopted by,
the International Accounting Standards Board (the 'IASB'), interpretations
issued by the International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee,
applicable legal and regulatory requirements of Guernsey Law and the Listing
Rules of the UK Listing Authority.
The following new standards have been issued but are not effective for the year
ending 30 June 2007 and have not been adopted early:
In August 2005, the IASB issued IFRS 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures which
becomes effective for periods commencing on or after 1 January 2007. The
standard requires disclosures about the significance of financial instruments
for an entity's financial position and performance. These disclosures
incorporate many of the requirements of IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Disclosure
and Presentation. IFRS 7 also requires information about the extent to which the
entity is exposed to risks arising from financial instruments, and a description
of management's objectives, policies and processes for managing those risks. The
Group will apply IFRS 7 for its accounting period commencing 1 July 2007.
In November 2006, the IASB issued IFRS 8 Operating Segments which becomes
effective for periods commencing on or after 1 January 2009. This standard
requires disclosure on the financial performance of the Group's operating
segments. The Group will apply IFRS 8 for its accounting period commencing 1
July 2009.
The Group does not consider that the future adoption of International Financial
Reporting Standards, in the form currently available, will have any material
impact on the Financial Statements as presented.
(b)Basis of preparation
The preparation of Financial Statements in conformity with IFRS requires
management to make judgement, estimates and assumptions that affect the
application of policies and the reported amounts of assets and liabilities,
income and expenses. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on
historical experience and various other factors that are believed to be
reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis of
making judgements about carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not
readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these
estimates.
(c)Foreign currency translation
(i) Functional and presentation currencies
The Company's functional currency is Sterling and the subsidiaries' functional
currency is Euro. The presentation currency of the Company and the Group is
Sterling.
(ii) Foreign currency transactions
Transactions in foreign currencies are translated to Sterling at the spot
foreign exchange rate ruling at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and
liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at the balance sheet date are
translated to Sterling at the foreign exchange rate ruling at that date. Foreign
exchange differences arising on translation are recognised in the income
statement. Non-monetary assets and liabilities that are measured at historical
cost in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rate at the date of
the transaction. Non-monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign
currencies that are stated at fair value are translated to Sterling at foreign
exchange rates ruling at the dates the fair value was determined.
(iii) Financial statements of foreign operations.
The assets and liabilities of foreign operations, arising on consolidation, are
translated to Sterling at the foreign exchange rates ruling at the balance sheet
date. The income and expenses of foreign operations are translated to Sterling
at an average rate. Foreign exchange differences arising on retranslation are
recognised as a separate component of equity.
(d) Basis of consolidation
(i) Subsidiaries
Subsidiaries are those entities, including special purpose entities, controlled
by the Company. Control exists when the Company has the power, directly or
indirectly, to govern the financial and operating policies of an entity so as to
obtain benefits from its activities. The Company owns 100% of the issued share
capital of Property Trust Luxembourg 1 Sarl, Property Trust Luxembourg 2 Sarl,
and Property Trust Luxembourg 3 Sarl companies incorporated in Luxembourg whose
principal business is that of an investment holding company and property
company. The consolidated results of these subsidiaries are included in the
consolidated Financial Statements. Subsidiaries are consolidated from the date
on which control is transferred to the Group and cease to be consolidated from
the date on which control is transferred out of the Group. Subsidiaries are
accounted for at cost less impairment in the Company's Financial Statements.
(ii) Transactions eliminated on consolidation.
Intra-group balances and any unrealised gains and losses arising from
intra-group transactions are eliminated in preparing the consolidated Financial
Statements.
(iii) Joint ventures
The Group's interests in jointly controlled entities are accounted for by
proportionate consolidation. The Group combines its share of the joint ventures'
individual income and expenses, assets and liabilities and cash flows on a
line-by-line basis with similar items in the Group's Financial Statements. The
Group recognises the portion of gains or losses on the sale of assets by the
Group to the joint venture that is attributable to the other venturers. The
Group does not recognise its share of profits or losses from the joint venture
that result from the Group's purchase of assets from the joint venture until it
resells the assets to an independent party. However, a loss on the transaction
is recognised immediately if the loss provides evidence of a reduction in the
net realisable value of current assets, or an impairment loss.
(e) Income recognition
Income from certificates of deposit and interest income from banks and
subsidiaries are recognised on an effective yield basis.
Rental income from investment property leased out under operating leases is
recognised in the income statement on a straight-line basis over the term of the
lease. Lease incentives are amortised over the whole lease term.
(f) Expenses
Expenses are accounted for on an accruals basis.
Service costs for service contracts entered into by the Group acting as the
principal are recorded when such services are rendered. The Group is entitled to
recover such costs from the tenants of the investment properties. The recovery
of costs is recognised as service income on an accrual basis.
(g) Formation and placing expenses
Formation and placing expenses include fees arising from the establishment of
the Company, the offer for subscription and admission. These include the
Sponsor's fee, set up costs, legal and accounting fees and any other initial
expenses. An amount equal to 2% of the subscription proceeds was accrued to meet
the expenses. The excess was settled by the Investment Manager. The Investment
Manager will be reimbursed for any formation and initial expenses paid above the
initial expenses provision by way of commission for their services. A total
balance of £nil (2006: £1,019 thousand) has been expensed to the income
statement in respect of formation expenses for the Company £290 thousand (2006:
£246 thousand) formation expenses were incurred by subsidiaries of the Group
(see Note 5). Total formation costs for the Group were £290 thousand (2006:
£1,265 thousand).
(h) Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents comprises cash balances and call deposits carried at
cost. Cash equivalents are short-term, highly liquid investments that are
readily convertible to known amounts of cash and which are subject to an
insignificant risk of changes in value.
(i) Dividends
Dividends are recognised as a liability in the period in which they become
obligations of the Company. All dividends are paid as interim dividends. Interim
dividends are recognised when paid. Final dividends are recognised once they are
approved by shareholders.
(j) Provisions
A provision is recognised in the balance sheet when the Group has a legal or
constructive obligation as a result of a past event, and it is probable that an
outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation.
(k) Investment properties
Investment properties are those which are held to earn rental income and capital
appreciation and are recognised as such once all material conditions in the
exchanged purchase contracts are satisfied. They are initially recognised at
cost, being the fair value of consideration given, including transaction costs
and any acquisition costs directly attributable to the acquisition of the
property. Acquisition costs incurred on exchanged but not completed contracts
are recognised as other assets in the balance sheet. Acquisition costs on
properties under offer which had not exchanged by 30 June 2007 are expensed in
the income statement.
After initial recognition, investment properties are measured at fair value
using the fair value model with unrealised gains and losses recognised in the
income statement. Realised gains and losses upon disposal of properties are
recognised in the income statement. Quarterly valuations are carried out by
Knight Frank LLP, external independent valuers in accordance with the RICS
Appraisal and Valuation Standards. The properties have been valued on the basis
of open market value, which is the estimated amount for which a property should
exchange on the date of valuation, in an arm's-length transaction.
Valuations reflect, where appropriate, the types of tenants actually in
occupation or responsible for meeting lease commitments or likely to be in
occupation after letting of vacant accommodation and the market's general
perception of their creditworthiness, the allocation of maintenance and
insurance responsibilities between lessor and lessees, and the remaining
economic life of the property. It has been assumed that whenever rent reviews or
lease renewals are pending with anticipated reversionary increases, all notices
and where appropriate counter notices have been served validly and within the
appropriate time.
Properties are leased out under operating leases and classified as investment
property.
(l) Investments at fair value through profit or loss
An instrument is classified as fair value through profit or loss if it is held
for trading or is designated as such upon initial recognition. Upon initial
recognition, attributable transaction costs are recognised in profit or loss
when incurred. Financial instruments at fair value through profit or loss are
measured at fair value and changes therein are recognised in profit or loss.
The investment held in the Porto Kali portfolio has been designated by the
Directors as fair value through profit or loss in order to achieve an accounting
treatment consistent with the Group's other property investments.
(m) Short term investments
Certificates of deposits are measured at fair value which is market value, all
having a maturity of less than one year. Certificates of deposits are recognised
on acquisition and shown in current assets on the balance sheet, they are
derecognised on disposal with any realised gains or losses being included on the
income statement.
(n) Impairment
The carrying amounts of the Group's assets, other than investment property, are
reviewed at each balance sheet date to determine whether there is any indication
of impairment. If any such indication exists, the asset's recoverable amount is
estimated. An impairment loss is recognised whenever the carrying amount of an
asset exceeds its estimated recoverable amount. Impairment losses are recognised
in the income statement.
(o) Segmental reporting
The Directors are of the opinion that the Group is engaged in a single segment
of business being the property investment business. It operates in a single
geographical segment (Europe) and the properties are let mainly to commercial
entities.
(p) Intercompany loans
Loans between the Company and its subsidiaries that are not at a market rate of
interest are initially recognised at fair valued based on an estimated market
rate, with the resultant gain or loss being recognised initially in the
Company's income statement as a distribution gain. Subsequently, these are
measured at amortised cost on an effective yield basis. After adjusting for
amortisation, interest on these loans will be recognised on an effective yield
basis over the term of the loans. See note 22 for more detail of these loans.
Distribution gains are initially allocated to the capital reserve and periodic
transfers are made from capital to revenue reserve in line with the
corresponding amortisation of the loans on an effective yield basis as described
above.
(q) Taxation
The Company has obtained exempt company status in Guernsey under the terms of
the Income Tax (Exempt Bodies) (Guernsey) Ordinance, 1989 and accordingly is
subject to an annual fee of £600. The Directors intend to conduct the Group's
affairs such that it continues to remain eligible for exemption.
The Company's subsidiaries are subject to income tax on any income arising on
investment properties, after deduction of debt financing costs and other
allowable expenses. However, when a subsidiary owns a property located in a
country other than its country of residence the taxation of the income is
defined in accordance with the double taxation treaty signed between the country
where the property is located and the residence country of the subsidiary.
Income tax on the profit or loss for the year comprises current tax. Current tax
is the expected tax payable on the taxable income for the year as determined
under local tax law, using tax rates enacted or substantially enacted at the
balance sheet date, and any adjustment to tax payable in respect of previous
periods.
Deferred income tax is provided using the liability method, providing for
temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for
financial reporting purposes and the amount used for taxation purposes. The
amount of deferred tax provided is based on the expected manner of realisation
or settlement of the carrying amount of assets and liabilities, using tax rates
enacted or substantially enacted at the balance sheet date. Deferred tax assets
are recognised only to the extent that it is probable that future taxable
profits will be available against which the asset is utilised.
Details of current tax and deferred tax assets and liabilities are disclosed in
note 16.
(r) Significant estimates and judgements
The Group makes estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting
accounting estimates will, by definition, seldom equate to the related actual
results. The estimates and assumptions that have significant risk of causing
material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the
next financial year are related to the Group's property valuation policy.
Properties will be valued quarterly by external independent valuers as at the
end of each calendar quarter. Their valuations will be reviewed quarterly by the
Board.
(s) Derivative financial instruments
The Group uses derivative financial instruments to hedge its exposure to foreign
exchange and interest rate risks arising from operational financing and
investment activities. In accordance with its treasury policy, the Group does
not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading purposes.
However, derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting are accounted for
as trading instruments.
Derivative financial instruments are recognised initially at cost which is also
deemed to be fair value. Subsequent to initial recognition, derivative financial
instruments are stated at fair value. the gain or loss on remeasurement to fair
value is recognised immediately in profit or loss. However, where derivatives
qualify for hedge accounting, recognition of any resultant gain or loss depends
on the nature of the item being hedged.
The fair value of the interest rate swaps and cross currency swaps is the
estimated amount that the Group would received or pay to terminate the swap at
the balance sheet date, taking into account current interest rates and the
current creditworthiness of the swap counterparties.
(t) Hedge accounting
The Group designates certain hedging instruments, which include derivatives and
non-derivatives in respect of foreign currency risk, as either fair value
hedges, cash flow hedges, or hedges of net investments in foreign operations.
Hedges of foreign exchange risk on firm commitments are accounted for as cash
flow hedges.
Note 19 contains details of the fair values of the derivative instruments used
for hedging purposes. Movements in the hedging reserve in equity are also
detailed in the statement of changes in equity.
Cash flow hedge
The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives that are
designated and qualify as cash flow hedges are deferred in equity. The gain or
loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognised immediately in profit or
loss as part of other expenses or other income.
Amounts deferred in equity are recycled in profit or loss in the periods when
the hedged item is recognised in profit or loss. However, when the forecast
transaction that is hedged results in the recognition of a non-financial asset
or a non-financial liability, the gains and losses previously deferred in equity
are transferred from equity and included in the initial measurement of the cost
of the asset or liability.
Hedge accounting is discontinued when the Group revokes the hedging
relationship, the hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated, or
exercised, or no longer qualifies for hedge accounting. Any cumulative gain or
loss deferred in equity at that time remains in equity and is recognised when
the forecast transaction is ultimately recognised in profit or loss. When a
forecast transaction is no longer expected to occur, the cumulative gain or loss
that was deferred in equity is recognised immediately in profit or loss.
3. Material agreements
(i) AXA Investment Managers UK Limited has been appointed as the Investment
Manager of the Group pursuant to an Investment Management Agreement dated 18
April 2005. The Investment Manager is responsible for advising the Group on the
overall management of the Group's investments and for managing the Group's
investments in fixed income instruments in accordance with the Group's
investment objective and policy, subject to the overall supervision of the
Directors. Under the terms of the Investment Management Agreement, the
Investment Manager is entitled to a management fee of 90 basis points per annum
of gross assets together with reasonable expenses payable quarterly in arrears.
The management fee shall be reduced by an amount equal to the fees payable to
the Real Estate Adviser by the property subsidiaries such that the total fees
payable by the Group to the Investment Real Estate Adviser and Investment
Manager will not exceed 90 basis points per annum.
The Investment Management Agreement may not be terminated by either the Company
or the Investment Manager without cause prior to the second anniversary of the
Investment Management Agreement. Thereafter, either party may terminate the
Investment Management Agreement on not less than twelve months' notice in
writing.
(ii) UBS Limited has been appointed as the Sponsor and Broker with a fee of 20
basis points per annum of gross assets payable annually in arrears.
(iii) Northern Trust International Fund Administration Services (Guernsey)
Limited has been appointed as Administrator, Secretary and Registrar pursuant to
the Administration Agreement dated 13 April 2005. The Administrator is entitled
to receive a fixed fee of £65,000 per annum plus a variable fee which is
dependant on additional work carried out by the Administrator for the Company
from time to time. In addition, the Administrator shall be entitled to be
reimbursed for all reasonable out of pocket expenses incurred in the performance
of its duties.
(iv) HSBC Global Investors has been appointed as Custodian in respect of the
Company's fixed income investments.
4. Gross rental income
Gross rental income for the year ended 30 June 2007 amounted to £7,607 thousand
(2006: £1,864 thousand). The Group leases out all of its investment property
under operating leases.
5. Administrative expenses
Company Group
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
30 June 2007 30 June 2006 30 June 2007 30 June 2006
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
£000s £000s £000s £000s
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Directors' fees 80 88 98 96
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Insurance expenses 14 10 14 10
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Administration
fees 148 105 272 120
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Audit fees 83 18 233 179
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Acquisition costs - - 116 347
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Subsidiaries'
formation costs - - 290 246
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Legal and
professional fees 167 114 662 435
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
General expenses 79 27 241 143
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total 571 362 1,926 1,576
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Each of the Directors receives a fee of £15,000 per annum from the Company. The
chairman receives a fee of £20,000 per annum. The aggregate remuneration and
benefits in kind of the Directors in respect of the Company's financial year
ending on 30 June 2007 amounted to £80,000 (2006: £88,330) in respect of the
Company and £97,718 (2006: £95,548) in respect of the Group.
6. Dividends
Group
Dividend pay date No. of Ordinary Shares Rate 30 June 2007 30 June 2006
--------------- ------------ -------- --------- -----------
pence £000s £000s
--------------- ------------ -------- --------- -----------
25 August 2005 100,000,000 0.45 - 450
--------------- ------------ -------- --------- -----------
30 November 2005 100,000,000 1.10 - 1,100
--------------- ------------ -------- --------- -----------
28 February 2006 100,000,000 1.00 - 1,000
--------------- ------------ -------- --------- -----------
24 May 2006 100,000,000 1.00 - 1,000
--------------- ------------ -------- --------- -----------
4 September 2006 100,000,000 1.45 1,450 -
--------------- ------------ -------- --------- -----------
15 December 2006 100,000,000 1.25 1,250 -
--------------- ------------ -------- --------- -----------
28 February 2007 100,000,000 1.00 1,000 -
--------------- ------------ -------- --------- -----------
25 May 2007 100,000,000 1.00 1,000 -
--------------- ------------ -------- --------- -----------
Total 4,700 3,550
--------------- ------------ -------- --------- -----------
A further dividend of £1 million (1 pence per share) was approved on 2 August
2007. The ex-dividend date was
8 August 2007 and the payment date was 29 August 2007.
7. Investment properties
Investment properties are stated at fair value, which is determined based on
valuations performed by Knight Frank LLP as at 30 June 2007, on the basis of
open market value, supported by market evidence, in accordance with the RICS
Appraisal and Valuation Standards.
Market Risk
Property and property related assets are inherently difficult to value due to
the individual nature of each property. As a result, valuations are subject to
uncertainty. There is no assurance that the estimates resulting from the
valuation process will reflect the actual sales price even where a sale occurs
shortly after the valuation date. Rental income and the market value for
properties are generally affected by overall conditions in the local economy,
such as growth in Gross Domestic Product, employment trends, inflation and
changes in interest rates. Changes in Gross Domestic Product may also impact
employment levels, which in turn may impact the demand for premises.
Furthermore, movements in interest rates may affect the cost of financing for
real estate companies.
Both rental income and property values may be affected by other factors specific
to the real estate market, such as competition from other property owners, the
perceptions of prospective tenants of the attractiveness, convenience and safety
of properties, the inability to collect rents because of the bankruptcy or the
insolvency of tenants, the periodic need to renovate, repair and release space
and the costs thereof, the costs of maintenance and insurance, and increased
operating costs. The Investment Manager addresses market risk through a
selective investment process, credit evaluations of tenants, on going monitoring
of tenants and through effective management of the properties.
Company Group
-------------------- --------- -------- --------- --------
30 June 30 June 30 June 30 June
-------------------- 2007 2006 2007 2006
--------- -------- --------- --------
£000s £000s £000s £000s
-------------------- --------- -------- --------- --------
Cost of investment properties at
beginning --------- -------- --------- --------
--------------------
of year/period - - 77,152 -
-------------------- --------- -------- --------- --------
Additions during
the period at cost - - 61,147 77,152
-------------------- --------- -------- --------- --------
Disposal during
the period - - (10,130) -
-------------------- --------- -------- --------- --------
Cost of investment
properties - - 128,169 77,152
-------------------- --------- -------- --------- --------
-------------------- --------- -------- --------- --------
Fair value
adjustments - - 7,901 287
-------------------- --------- -------- --------- --------
Foreign exchange
translation - - (1,959) 3
-------------------- --------- -------- --------- --------
Market value of
investment
properties - - 134,111 77,442
-------------------- --------- -------- --------- --------
Investment properties comprise a number of commercial properties that are leased
to third parties.
There was one (2006: four) contract to purchase an investment property exchanged
in the period which was not completed at 30 June 2007. Related acquisition costs
totalled £183 thousand (2006: £173 thousand) which is shown in other assets on
the balance sheet. The portfolio on page 5 shows the properties acquired by the
Group.
8. Joint ventures
On 16 October 2006 the Group disposed of 50% of the equity in the Italian
subsidiary Property Trust Agnadello s.r.l. which holds a logistics warehouse in
Agnadello, Italy. The equity was acquired by European Added Value Fund Sarl, a
subsidiary of European Added Value Fund Limited ('EAVF'). The Manager of EAVF is
Partnership Incorporations Limited, which has appointed AXA Real Estate
Investment Managers UK Limited to act as real estate adviser to EAVF. The
transaction was at arms length, at no gain or loss and the sale price
represented market value. The underlying property value was confirmed by Knight
Frank LLP, independent valuers to the Company.
The Group is entitled to a proportionate share of the rental income received and
bears a proportionate share of the outgoings. The following amounts are included
in the Group Financial Statements as a result of the proportionate consolidation
of Property Trust Agnadello Srl:
Company Group
30 June 2007 30 June 2006 30 June 2007 30 June 2006
£000s £000s £000s £000s
Current assets - - 2,162 -
-------------------- -------- --------- --------- --------
Non-current assets - - 10,096 -
-------------------- -------- --------- --------- --------
Current
liabilities - - 271 -
-------------------- -------- --------- --------- --------
Non-current
liabilities - - 10,568 -
-------------------- -------- --------- --------- --------
-------------------- -------- --------- --------- --------
Company Group
-------------------- -------- --------- --------- --------
30 June 2007 30 June 2006 30 June 2007 30 June 2006
-------------------- -------- --------- --------- --------
£000s £000s £000s £000s
-------------------- -------- --------- --------- --------
Income - - 1,571 -
-------------------- -------- --------- --------- --------
Expenses - - 1,271 -
-------------------- -------- --------- --------- --------
9. Other investments
Company Group
30 June 30 June 30 June 30 June
------------------- 2007 2006 2007 2006
£000s £000s £000s £000s
Non-current assets
------------------- -------- --------- ---------- ---------
Financial assets designated at fair
value -------- --------- ---------- ---------
-------------------
through profit or loss - - - -
------------------- -------- --------- ---------- ---------
Addition during
the year - - 1,016 -
------------------- -------- --------- ---------- ---------
Fair value
adjustment - - (1,016) -
------------------- -------- --------- ---------- ---------
Total - - - -
------------------- -------- --------- ---------- ---------
Financial assets designated at fair value through profit or loss includes the
12% share capital held in the holding company of the Dutch office portfolio
Porto Kali.
10. Intra group loans receivable
Company Group
30 June 2007 30 June 2006 30 June 2007 30 June 2006
£000s £000s £000s £000s
-------------------- -------- --------- -------- --------
Non-current
-------------------- -------- --------- -------- --------
Back to back loans 70,273 60,593 - -
-------------------- -------- --------- -------- --------
Mezzanine loans 57,036 33,537 - -
-------------------- -------- --------- -------- --------
Working capital
loans 44 113 - -
-------------------- -------- --------- -------- --------
Profit
participating loan 10,208 - - -
-------------------- -------- --------- -------- --------
Total 137,561 94,243 - -
-------------------- -------- --------- -------- --------
The above include amortisation of fair value gains on mezzanine and working
capital loans.
Current
Low interest loans 5,457 2,988 - -
VAT loans - 4,455 - -
Current accounts 84 138 - -
Total 5,541 7,581 - -
11. Non-Group loan receivables
During the year the Group made a long-term loan of £9,109 thousand (€13,532
thousand) to the holding company of the Porto Kali office portfolio. The loan
bears interest at a floating rate of three month Euribor plus 2.25% and is
repayable by the tenth anniversary of the commencement date.
12. Cash and cash equivalents
Company Group
30 June 2007 30 June 2006 30 June 2007 30 June 2006
£000s £000s £000s £000s
Bank balances 1,108 306 5,838 20,197
-------------------- --------- --------- -------- ---------
Call deposits - 1,881 320 1,880
-------------------- --------- --------- -------- ---------
Total 1,108 2,187 6,158 22,077
-------------------- --------- --------- -------- ---------
13. Trade and other receivables
Company Group
30 June 30 June 30 June 30 June
--------------------- 2007 2006 2007 2006
£000s £000s £000s £000s
VAT receivable - - 2,095 4,291
--------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Rent receivable - - 139 617
--------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Prepayments 12 10 749 203
--------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Accrued income - - 292 46
--------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Witholding tax
receivable - - 119 -
--------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Intragroup loan
interest 3,295 1,606 - -
--------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Acquisition costs on exchanged
contracts not yet -------- -------- -------- --------
---------------------
completed
(Note2(k)) - - - 938
--------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Other receivables 150 - 178 -
--------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Total 3,457 1,616 3,572 6,095
--------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------
14. Trade and other payables
Company Group
30 June 30 June 30 June 30 June
----------------------- 2007 2006 2007 2006
£000s £000s £000s £000s
Amounts due on completion of
property ------- -------- -------- --------
-----------------------
purchase contracts - - - 3,116
----------------------- ------- -------- -------- --------
Property
acquisition costs - - 484 2,413
----------------------- ------- -------- -------- --------
Initial expenses - - - 370
----------------------- ------- -------- -------- --------
Investment
management fee 167 - 1,066 225
----------------------- ------- -------- -------- --------
Legal and
professional fees 16 - 358 207
----------------------- ------- -------- -------- --------
Other 8 80 361 195
----------------------- ------- -------- -------- --------
Rent prepaid - - 181 185
----------------------- ------- -------- -------- --------
Audit fee 30 17 174 168
----------------------- ------- -------- -------- --------
VAT payable - 750 154
----------------------- ------- -------- -------- --------
Tax - - 51 25
----------------------- ------- -------- -------- --------
Administration and
Company
Secretarial fees - - 72 9
----------------------- ------- -------- -------- --------
Directors' fees - 4 2 8
----------------------- ------- -------- -------- --------
Interest payable 236 - 318 -
----------------------- ------- -------- -------- --------
Sponsor fees 125 - 124 -
----------------------- ------- -------- -------- --------
Total 582 101 3,941 7,075
----------------------- ------- -------- -------- --------
15. Long term Loan
Company Group
30 June 2007 30 June 2006 30 June 2007 30 June 2006
£000s £000s £000s £000s
Non-current liabilities
-------------------- --------- --------- -------- ---------
Secured bank loans 39,796 - 47,705 -
-------------------- --------- --------- -------- ---------
Loan due to third
party - - 57 -
-------------------- --------- --------- -------- ---------
39,796 - 47,762 -
-------------------- --------- --------- -------- ---------
During the year the Group's main loan facility with Calyon Corporate and
Investment Bank was increased from €81.5 million to €122.0 million. The loan
matures 3 April 2011. As at 30 June 2007, the Company had drawn down £39,796
thousand (€59,122 thousand) from the facility. On 26 July 2007, the Company drew
down a further €6,250 thousand. Loans drawn down from the main facility are
secured over the shares in the Company's subsidiaries Property Trust Luxembourg
1 Sarl, Property Trust Luxembourg 2 Sarl and Property Trust Luxembourg 3 Sarl.
In addition to the main loan facility, the Group has a 50% interest in the joint
venture Property Trust Agnadello s.r.l. which holds long term bank debts of
£15,819 thousand (€23,500 thousand) secured over the property and assets of the
joint venture.
A fee of £190,000 (€282,000) was incurred in extending the existing loan
facility and setting up a new facility for Property Trust Agnadello s.r.l. with
Calyon Corporate and Investment Bank.
16. Taxation
Group
30 June 2007 30 June 2006
Reconciliation of effective tax rate £000s £000s
---------------------------------- -------- --------
Effect of:
---------------------------------- -------- --------
Current tax - Luxembourg 1 -
---------------------------------- -------- --------
Current tax - Italy 61 15
---------------------------------- -------- --------
Current tax - Netherlands 14 11
---------------------------------- -------- --------
Current tax - Belgium - -
---------------------------------- -------- --------
Current tax - Germany 14 -
---------------------------------- -------- --------
Deferred tax charge 2,224 16
---------------------------------- -------- --------
Tax charge incurred during the year 2,314 42
---------------------------------- -------- --------
---------------------------------- -------- --------
Payment on account (39) (17)
---------------------------------- -------- --------
Taxation (paid in advance)/payable 2,275 25
---------------------------------- -------- --------
2006 2007
Assets Liabilities Net Assets Liabilities Net
Recognised deferred
tax assets ------- -------- ------- ------- -------- --------
------------
and liabilities £000s £000s £000s £000s £000s £000s
------------ ------- -------- ------- ------- -------- --------
Investment property 129 (365) (236) 260 (3,195) (2,935)
------------ ------- -------- ------- ------- -------- --------
Loss on fair value
of ------- -------- ------- ------- -------- --------
------------
financial assets - - - 299 - 299
------------ ------- -------- ------- ------- -------- --------
Gain on derivatives - - - - (20) (20)
------------ ------- -------- ------- ------- -------- --------
Tax value of loss
carry ------- -------- ------- ------- -------- --------
------------
forwards recognised 220 - 220 416 - 416
------------ ------- -------- ------- ------- -------- --------
Tax
assets/ 349 (365) (16) 975 (3,215) (2,240)
(liabilities) ------- -------- ------- ------- -------- --------
-----------
1 July Recognised Recognised 30 June
2006 in income in 2007
statement equity
Movement in temporary differences £000s £000s £000s £000s
----------------- -------- ---------- ---------- --------
Investment property (236) (2,699) - (2,935)
----------------- -------- ---------- ---------- --------
Loss on fair value of financial
assets - 299 - 299
----------------- -------- ---------- ---------- --------
Gain on derivatives - (20) - (20)
----------------- -------- ---------- ---------- --------
Tax value of loss carry forwards
recognised 220 196 - 416
----------------- -------- ---------- ---------- --------
Tax assets/(liabilities) (16) (2,224) - (2,240)
----------------- -------- ---------- ---------- --------
----------------- -------- ---------- ---------- --------
Balance Recognised Balance
5 April income Recognised 30 June
2005 statement in equity 2006
Movement in temporary differences £000s £000s £000s £000s
----------------- -------- ---------- ---------- --------
Investment property - (236) - (236)
----------------- -------- ---------- ---------- --------
Tax value of loss carry forwards
recognised - 220 - 220
----------------- -------- ---------- ---------- --------
Tax assets/(liabilities) - (16) - (16)
----------------- -------- ---------- ---------- --------
17. Share capital
30 June 30 June
2007 2006
Number of Share Number of Share
------------- Shares Premium Shares Premium
£000s £000s
Shares of no par value
issued and fully paid
-------------
Received on
the placing of
shares 100,000,000 100,000 100,000,000 100,000
------------- ----------- ---------- ----------- ----------
Conversion to
special
distributable
reserve (100,000) - (100,000)
------------- ----------- ---------- ----------- ----------
Total 100,000,000 - 100,000,000 -
------------- ----------- ---------- ----------- ----------
On 24 June 2005 the Royal Court of Guernsey confirmed the reduction of capital
by way of cancellation of the Company's share premium account. The amount
cancelled, being £100 million, has been credited as a distributable reserve
established in the Company's books of account and shall be available as
distributable profits to be used for all purposes permitted under Guernsey law,
including the payment of dividends.
18. Net asset value per ordinary share
The net asset value per ordinary share at 30 June 2007 is based on the net
assets attributable to the ordinary shareholders of £99,979 thousand (2006:
£98,870 thousand) and on 100,000,000 (2006: 100,000,000) ordinary shares in
issue at the balance sheet date.
19. Financial instruments
The Group's investment objective is to secure attractive Sterling based total
returns for shareholders through a combination of dividends and capital
appreciation from European properties (including the United Kingdom). The Group
aims to achieve this investment objective by investing in commercial properties
across Europe (including the United Kingdom) which are predominately freehold
and in the following segments of the commercial property market: office, retail,
industrial and other sectors, including leisure and hotels.
The Group's financial instruments comprise bank deposits, certificates of
deposit, cash, derivative financial instruments receivables and payables that
arise directly from its operations.
The main risks arising from the Group's financial instruments are market risk,
credit risk, liquidity risk, interest risk and currency risk.
Credit Risk
Credit risk arises when an issuer or counterparty is unable or unwilling to meet
a commitment that it has entered into with the Group. In the event of a default
by an occupational tenant, the Group will suffer a rental income shortfall and
incur additional costs, including legal expenses, in maintaining, insuring and
re-letting the property. The Group has a credit policy in place and credit
evaluations are performed on all tenants. At the balance sheet date there were
no concentrations of credit risk.
Liquidity Risk
The Group may encounter liquidity risk when realising assets or otherwise
raising funds to meet financial commitments. Investments in property are
relatively illiquid, however, the Group has mitigated this risk by investing in
desirable properties in strong locations.
Interest Rate Risk
Floating rate financial assets comprise the cash balances which bear interest at
rates based on bank base rates. The Group is exposed to interest rate risk as
the Group borrows funds under the loan facility with Calyon Corporate and
Investment Bank at floating interest rates. The Group manages this risk by using
interest rate swaps and caps denominated in Euro. The swaps mature over the next
three years following the maturity of the related loans and have swap rates
ranging from 3.82% to 4.72%. At 30 June 2007, the Group had interest rate swaps
with a notional contract amount of €77,122 thousand (2006: €Nil).
--All interest rate swap contracts exchanging floating rate interest amounts for
fixed rate interest amounts are designated as cash flow hedges in order to
reduce the Group's cash flow exposure resulting from variable interest rates on
borrowings. The interest rate swaps and the interest payments on the loan occur
simultaneously and the amount deferred in equity is recognised in profit or loss
over the loan period.
Company
30 June 2007 30 June 2006
Cash flow hedges Assets Liabilities Assets Liabilities
£000s £000s £000s £000s
Non-current
Interest rate swaps 355 - - -
Cross currency swaps - 18 - -
Total 355 18 - -
Group
30 June 2007 30 June 2006
Assets Liabilities Assets Liabilities
£000s £000s £000s £000s
Non-current
Interest rate swaps 465 - - -
Cross currency swaps - 18 - -
Total 465 18 - -
The notional principal amounts of the outstanding cross currency swaps at 30
June 2007 were £18,910 thousand
(2006: nil).
Interest re-pricing
Effective interest rate Total as per Fixed rate Floating rate
balance sheet 3 months or less
% £000s £000s £000s
Group:
Financial assets
Non-Group loan receivable 6.40 9,109 9,109 -
Cash and cash equivalents 0.75-5.25 6,158 - 6,158
Total 15,267 9,109 6,158
Financial liabilities
Long term loans 4.81 47,762 - 47,762
Total 47,762 - 47,762
Company:
Financial assets
Interest bearing loans and borrowings
Back to back loans 7.05 70,273 - 70,273
Mezzanine loans 6.61-7.18 57,036 57,036 -
Working capital 1.00 44 44 -
Low interest loans 0.50 5,457 5,457 -
Profit participating loan 1.00 10,208 10,208
Total 143,018 72,745 70,273
Financial liabilities
Long term loans 4.81-4.96 39,796 - 39,796
Total 39,796 - 39,796
Foreign currency risk
The European subsidiaries will invest in properties using currencies other than
Sterling, the Company's functional and presentational currency, and the balance
sheet may be significantly affected by movements in the exchange rates of such
currencies against Sterling. The Company will review and manage currency
exposure on an appropriate basis.
The Group had hedged foreign currency exposure in respect of £0.6 million (€0.9
million) quarterly interest receipts in Euro over the next five years through
the use of cross currency swaps.
20. Reserves
(a) Revaluation reserves
Revaluation reserves of the Group arose from the revaluation gain on properties,
financial assets and derivatives.
(b) Capital reserves
Capital reserves of the Company arose from fair value adjustment of loans to
subsidiaries granted at rates higher than prevailing market interest rates.
(c) Hedging reserves
Hedging reserves comprise the effective portion of the cumulative net change in
the fair value of hedging instruments where the hedged transaction has not yet
occurred.
(d) Distributable reserves
Distributable reserve arose from the cancellation of the share premium account
pursuant to the special resolution passed at the Extraordinary General Meeting
on 13 April 2005 and approved by the Royal Court of Guernsey on 24 June 2005.
(e) Foreign exchange reserves
Foreign exchange reserve arose as a result of the translation of the Financial
Statements of foreign operations, the functional and presentation currency of
which is not Sterling.
21. Related party transactions
The Directors are responsible for the determination of the Company's investment
objective and policy and have overall responsibility for the Group's activities
including the review of investment activity and performance.
Mr Hunter and Mr Ray form the majority of the Directors of its subsidiaries,
Property Trust Luxembourg 1 Sarl, Property Trust Luxembourg 2 Sarl and Property
Trust Luxembourg 3 Sarl and are able to control the investment policy of the
Luxembourg subsidiaries to ensure it conforms with the investment policy of the
Company. Mr Ray is also a Managing Director of AXA Real Estate Investment
Managers Belgium S.A.
Mr Farrell, a Director of the Company, is also a partner in Ozannes, the
Guernsey legal advisers to the Company. The total charge to the income statement
during the period in respect of Ozannes legal fees were £4,628 (2006: £6,930)
which was settled during the year.
Mr Marren, a Director of the Company, is also a Director of Northern Trust
International Fund Administration Services (Guernsey) Limited ('Northern
Trust'), the Administrator, Secretary and Registrar for the Company. The total
administration fees charged to the income statement in respect of Northern Trust
administration fees is £147,795 (2006: £104,952) for the year of which £Nil
(2006: £20,618) remained payable at the year end.
Under the Investment Management Agreement, the Real Estate Adviser's Agreement
and local asset management agreements, fees are payable to AXA Real Estate
Investment Managers UK (the Real Estate Adviser) and other entities within the
AXA Investment Managers Group. As the Real Estate Adviser and local asset
managers, these entities are involved in the planning and direction of the
Company and Group, as well as controlling aspects of their day to day activity,
subject to the overall supervision of the Directors. During the year, fees of
£1,084 thousand (2006: £208 thousand) were expensed to the income statement of
which £1,066 thousand (€225 thousand) remained payable at the year end.
During the year, the Company made various loans to its subsidiaries, of which
details are disclosed in Note 22.
22. Intercompany loans
The Company made various loans to the subsidiaries as follows:
(a) Mezzanine loans
Included in non-current receivables from subsidiaries are loans for the purpose
of property acquisition amounting to £45,744 thousand (2006: £25,997 thousand)
with a fair value of £57,036 thousand (2006: £33,537 thousand). The difference
of £11,453 thousand (2006: £7,540 thousand) between the fair value at initial
recognition of these loans (£57,197 thousand; 2006: €33,537 thousand) and their
settlement value is recognised as a distribution gain in the Company's income
statement. These loans are unsecured and bear interest at the coupon rate of
9.75% per annum, their repayable dates ranging between 2015 and 2017. Based on
the Company's accounting policies the difference between the fair value of the
loans and their settlement amounts is recognised at the date of the granting of
the loans as distribution gain in the Company's income statement.
(b) Back to back loans
Included in non-current loan receivable from subsidiaries are loans for the
purpose of property acquisition amounting to £70,273 thousand (2006: £60,593
thousand). These are unsecured and bear interest at Euribor plus 2.75% per
annum, their repayable dates ranging between 2015 and 2017.
(c) Low interest loans
Included in current loan receivables from subsidiaries are loans for the purpose
of property acquisition amounting to £5,457 thousand (2006: £2,988 thousand).
These are unsecured and bear interest at the coupon rate of 0.5% per annum and
are repayable within less than one year.
(d) Working capital loans
Included in non-current loan receivables from subsidiaries are loans for the
purpose of working capital amounting to £67 thousand (2006: £175 thousand) with
a fair value of £44 thousand (2006: £113 thousand). The difference of £29
thousand (2006: £62 thousand) between the fair value at initial recognition of
these loans (£38 thousand; 2006: £113 thousand) and their settlement values is
recognised as a distribution gain in the Company's income statement. These are
unsecured and bear interest at the coupon rate of 1.0% per annum, their
repayable dates ranging between 2015 and 2016.
(e) VAT loans
Included in current loan receivables from subsidiaries are loans for the purpose
of working capital amounting to £Nil (2006: £4,456 thousand). These are
unsecured and bear interest at the coupon rate of 1.0% per annum and are
repayable within less than one year.
(f) Current Accounts
Included in current loan receivables from subsidiaries are short term loans
amounting to £84 thousand
(2006: £138 thousand). These do not bear interest and are repayable within six
months.
(g) Profit participating loan
Included in current loan receivables from subsidiaries are loans for the purpose
of investment acquisition amounting to £10,208 thousand (2006: Nil). These are
unsecured and bear fixed interest at the coupon rate of 1.0% per annum. In
addition to the fixed interest, the loan also bear a tracking interest as per
the Profit Participation Loan agreement. The loan matures on the 49th
anniversary of the loan date.
23. Group entities
AXA Property Trust Limited, the Company, is the parent of the Group. It was
incorporated in Guernsey on 5 April 2005. The Company owns the following
subsidiaries:
Directly owned by the Company at 30 June 2007
Subsidiaries Investment in Country of Date of Ownership Principal
subsidiaries incorporation incorporation interest % activities
£000s
Property
Trust
Luxembourg 1
Sarl 1,277 Luxembourg 20 July 2005 100 Holding
company
Property
Trust
Luxembourg 2
Sarl 1,231 Luxembourg 24 November 100 Holding
2005 company
Property
Trust
Luxembourg 3
Sarl 151 Luxembourg 2 June 2006 100 Holding
company
Total 2,659
Owned by Property Trust Luxembourg 1 Sarl, Property Trust Luxembourg 2 Sarl and
Property Trust Luxembourg 3 Sarl
Country of Ownership Interest
---------------------------- Incorporation %
------------ ----------
Property Trust Luxembourg 1 Sarl
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Property Trust Karben Sarl Luxembourg 100
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Property Trust Treuchtlingen Sarl Luxembourg 100
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Property Trust Altenstadt Sarl Luxembourg 100
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Property Trust Wuerzburg Sarl Luxembourg 100
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Property Trust Moosburg Sarl Luxembourg 100
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Property Trust Muehldorf Sarl Luxembourg 100
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Property Trust Berlin 1 Sarl Luxembourg 100
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Property Trust Fuerth Sarl Luxembourg 100
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Property Trust Berlin 4 Sarl Luxembourg 100
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Property Trust Netherlands 1 B.V. Netherlands 100
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Keyser Center N.V. Belgium 0.05
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Property Trust Luxembourg 2 Sarl
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Property Trust Bernau Sarl Luxembourg 100
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Property Trust Rothenburg 1
Sarl Luxembourg 100
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Property Trust Investment 1 Sarl
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
renamed Property Trust
Kraichtal Sarl Luxembourg 100
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Property Trust Investment 2
Sarl Luxembourg 100
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
renamed Property Trust Montabauer Sarl
----------------------------
Property Trust Investment 3 Sarl
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
renamed Property Trust Dasing Sarl Luxembourg 100
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Property Trust Investment 4 Sarl Luxembourg 100
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
renamed Property Trust Dresden Sarl
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Keyser Center N.V. Belgium 99.95
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Property Trust Agnadello s.r.l. Italy 50
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Multiplex 1 S.r.l Italy 100
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Property Trust Luxembourg 3 Sarl
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Property Trust Investment 5 Sarl Luxembourg 100
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
renamed Property Trust Koethen Sarl
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
Property Trust Investment 6 Sarl Luxembourg 100
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
renamed Property Trust Kali Sarl
---------------------------- ------------ ----------
24. Commitments
A retail outlet at Kraichtal in Germany is to be constructed by the tenant on
the site acquired on 31 January 2007 for £79 thousand. When construction is
completed in 2007, the Group will be liable to acquire the new building for an
estimated consideration of £228 thousand (€338 thousand), with a further £101
thousand (€150 thousand) payable on fulfillment of certain tenant-related
conditions.
The joint venture Property Trust Agnadello s.r.l. is committed to carry out
repairs and improvements to enhance the capital value of the building at an
estimated cost of £1.7 million (€2.5 million) for which the Group will provide
50% of the funding. Payment is anticipated in early 2008.
25. Post balance sheet events
The acquisition of a real estate asset in Berlin, Germany was successfully
completed on 3 August 2007 for a gross purchase price of approximately £4,200
thousand (€6,200 thousand). The transaction was financed by a draw down on the
Company's loan facility which was fully economically hedged through a three year
interest rate swap followed by a one year interest rate cap. Property agent's
fees of £88 thousand (€130 thousand) were incurred on completion.
The acquisition of a real estate asset adjacent to the retail site already owned
by the Group in Kraichtal was successfully completed on 1 October 2007 for a
gross purchase price of £370 thousand (€550 thousand).
On 26 July 2007, the Company drew down a further £4,222 thousand (€6,250
thousand) from its main loan facility with Calyon Corporate and Investment Bank.
To hedge the related interest rate risk, the Company executed an interest rate
swap for three years and an interest rate cap for the final year of the loan.
In August and September 2007, the Company executed additional cross currency
swaps to hedge the Euro to Sterling foreign exchange risk on €500 thousand
income to be received every quarter to 30 April 2012.
On 28 September 2007, the Company reduced the main loan facility with Calyon
Corporate and Investment Bank from €122 million to €90 million to eliminate
surplus capacity.
All enquiries to:
The Company Secretary
Northern Trust International Fund Administration Services (Guernsey) Limited
Trafalgar Court
Les Banques
St Peter Port
Guernsey GY1 3QL
Tel: 01481 745660
Fax: 01481 745051
This information is provided by RNS
The company news service from the London Stock Exchange