Final Results Part 2

RNS Number : 1763O
Sagentia Group PLC
03 March 2009
 



Embargoed Release: 07:00hrs, Tuesday 3 March 2009


SAGENTIA GROUP PLC

('Sagentia' or the 'Group')

Annual Report and Financial Statements 2008

PART 2


Notes to the Financial Statements

For the year ended 31 December 2008


General information

Sagentia Group plc (the 'Sagentia' or 'Company') and its subsidiaries (together 'Sagentia' or 'Group') is a leading international technology consulting and IP exploitation organisation with a reputation for successfully commercialising emerging science and technology. Sagentia creates, develops and delivers business opportunities, products and services for its clients.


The Company is the ultimate parent company in which results of all Sagentia companies are consolidated. The Company was incorporated on 17 March 2008 in order to acquire the whole of the undertaking of Sagentia Group AG via a share for share exchange. To date it has acquired 99.6% of Sagentia Group AG via a share for share exchange. 


Sagentia develops technologies that underpin the future of the widest range of industries. Its key areas of expertise include: engineering, materials, telecommunications, life sciences, business innovation and electronics. Sagentia's facilities include state-of-the-art laboratories located in Europe in Cambridge, Frankfurt, and Stockholm; in the US in Washington, and in Asia in Hong Kong


The group and company accounts of Sagentia Group plc were prepared under IFRS and have been audited by Grant Thornton UK LLP. Accounts are available from the company's registered office; Harston Mill Harston, CambridgeCB22 7GG.


The Company is incorporated in England and Wales and has its primary listing on the Alternative Investment Market of the London Stock Exchange (SAG.L)


These consolidated financial statements have been approved for issue by the Board of Directors on 2 March 2009.

2 Summary of significant accounting policies

The principal accounting policies applied in the preparation of these consolidated financial statements are set out below. 

These policies have been consistently applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise stated.


2.1 Basis of preparation

The consolidated financial statements of Sagentia have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted by the EU and IFRIC interpretations issued and effective at the time of preparing these statements. No profit and loss account is presented for Sagentia Group plc as provided by Section 230 of the Companies Act 1985. The company's loss for the financial period after tax, determined in accordance with the Act, was £634,000 (2007 - £Nil).


Acquisition of Sagentia Group AG by Sagentia Group plc

These statements consolidate the financial statements of Sagentia Group plc and its subsidiary undertakings drawn up to 31 December each year. The Company was incorporated o17 March 2008 in order to acquire the whole of the undertaking of Sagentia Group AG via a share for share exchange. For the purpose of preparing the consolidated accounts this transaction is not considered to be a business combination. Thus, the directors have treated the results and cash flows of the combined entities brought into the consolidated financial statements of Sagentia Group plc, restating comparative results, as though they had always been combined. The comparative balance sheet at 31 December 2007 is as the position of Sagentia Group AG, except that the share capital, share premium and reserve accounts have been restated to create a merger reserve, to reflect the position assuming the share for share exchange had occurred at this date. The merger reserve shown within the Company accounts is the difference between the market value of the shares acquired and the nominal value of the shares issued. The merger reserve shown within the Group accounts is the difference between the net asset value of the assets acquired and the nominal value of the shares issued 

The company-only results of Sagentia Group plc are for the period from 17 March 2008 to 31Decmber 2008 only.


These financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, as modified by the revaluation of certain financial instruments at fair value, as allowed by IAS39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement. Of the new Standards and Interpretations effective for the year ended 31 December 2008, listed below, there was no impact on the presentation of the financial statements of Sagentia Group plc.

Number

Title


IFRIC 11

IFRS2: Group and treasury share transactions


IFRS 12

Service Concession Arrangements


IFRIC 14

Defined Benefit Asset and Minimum Funding Requirements



The Standards and Interpretations in issue but not yet effective for the year ending 31 December 2008 are listed below. Sagentia has not adopted these early. Other than additional disclosure, it is not thought that there will be an impact on the preparation of the accounts of Sagentia on the adoption of these standards.

Number

Title

Effective

IAS 1 

Presentation of Financial Statements (revised 2007) - Statement of Changes in Equity will no longer be presented as a primary statement

1 January 2009

IAS 23 

Borrowing Costs (revised 2007) 

1 January 2009

IAS 32 (Amendment)

Financial Instruments: Presentation and IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements - Puttable Financial Instruments and Obligations Arising on Liquidation 

1 January 2009

IAS 27 

Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements (Revised 2008)

1 July 2009

IFRS 2 (Amendment) 

Share-based Payment - Vesting Conditions and Cancellations 

1 January 2009

IFRS 1 (Amendment)

First-time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards and IAS 27 Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements - Costs of Investment in a Subsidiary, Jointly Controlled Entity or Associate 

1 January 2009

IAS 39 (Amendment)

Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement- Eligible Hedged Items 

1 July 2009

IFRS 3 

Business Combinations (Revised 2008) 

1 July 2009

IFRS 8 

Operating Segments 

1 January 2009

IFRIC 13

Customer Loyalty Programmes

1 July 2008

IFRIC 15 

Agreements for the Construction of Real Estate 

1 January 2009

IFRIC 16 

Hedges of a Net Investment in a Foreign Operation 

1 October 2008

IFRIC 17 

Distributions of Non-cash Assets to Owners 

1 July 2009

IFRIC 18 

Transfers of Assets from Customers 

From 1 July 2009




IAS 1, Presentation of Financial Statements (Revised 2007) will result in changes to the presentation of Sagentia's financial statements as the format currently adopted for the Statement of Changes in Equity will no longer be permitted. Instead, Sagentia will present a Statement of Comprehensive Income combining the existing Income Statement with other income and expenses currently presented as part of the Statement of Changes in Equity. In addition, Sagentia will present a separate Statement of Changes in Equity showing owner changes in equity. 

IAS 23 Borrowing Costs (Revised 2008) requires that borrowing costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition or construction of a qualifying asset are capitalised as part of the cost of the asset. The standard must be applied for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009. Sagentia's current accounting policy is to recognise borrowing costs in the income statement as incurred. Where Sagentia has funded the acquisition or construction of property, plant and equipment through borrowings, application of the standard is expected to increase the cost of the asset and the depreciation charge and reduce finance costs. 

IFRS 3 Business Combinations (Revised 2009) will apply to any future business combinations that Sagentia may undertake once it is in force. Sagentia has no plans to adopt the revised standard in advance of its mandatory implementation date and it is not possible to quantify the effect of the standard on future business combinations until those combinations take place.

The other standards and interpretations are not expected to have any significant impact on Sagentia's financial statements, in their periods of initial application, except for the additional disclosures on operating segments when IFRS 8 Operating Segments comes into effect. 


The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates. It also requires management to exercise its judgement in the process of applying Sagentia's accounting policies. The areas involving a higher degree of judgement or complexity, or areas where assumptions and estimates are significant to the consolidated financial statements are disclosed in Note 24.


2.2 Basis of consolidation The consolidated financial statements of Sagentia have been prepared in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards ('IFRS') as adopted by the EU


Sagentia financial statements consolidate the financial statements of Sagentia Group plc and its subsidiary undertakings drawn up to 31 December each year. Sagentia Group AG was incorporated in 1996 under the name of Catella AG and in 1998 changed its name to The Generics Group AG; and i2007 changed its name to Sagentia Group AGSagentia Group AG, as part of a group reorganisation, became the parent of The Generics Group Ltd (now Sagentia Holdings Ltd) in 1998 via a share-for-share exchange in that company. The company, as part of a group rebranding exercise, changed its name again during 2006 to Sagentia Group AG. This combination qualified as a group reconstruction. Thus the results and cash flows of the combined entities were brought into the financial statements of the combined entity as though they had always been combined. In March 2008 Sagentia Group plc was incorporated in order to acquire the whole of the undertaking of Sagentia Group AG via a share for share exchange. See Acquisition of Sagentia Group AG by Sagentia Group plc in section 2.1.


The basis of consolidation is set out below:

Subsidiaries - Subsidiaries are entities over which Sagentia has the power to govern the financial and operating policies accompanying a shareholding of more than one half of the voting rights. The existence and effect of potential voting rights that are currently exercisable or convertible are considered when assessing whether Sagentia controls another entity. Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date on which control is transferred to Sagentia. They are de-consolidated from the date that control ceases. These acquisitions are accounted for using the purchase method of accounting. 

Venture subsidiaries - Venture subsidiaries are investments in which Sagentia holds control, but holds these investments for ultimate disposal and capital gain. Sagentia accounts for such investments as subsidiaries until either they are disposed of or Sagentia issues shares to minorities and allows control to pass.

Investments - Investments are investments in which Sagentia does not hold significant influence. Where Sagentia holds these investments for ultimate disposal and capital gain, they are accounted for in accordance with IAS39, and are designated as at fair value through profit and loss.


2.3 Segment reporting

A business segment is a group of assets and operations engaged in providing products or services that are subject to risks and returns that are different from those of other business segments. A geographical segment is engaged in providing products or services within a particular economic environment that are subject to risks and return that are different from those of segments operating in other economic environments.


2.4 Intangible assets

Computer software

Acquired computer software licences are capitalised on the basis of the costs incurred to acquire and bring to use the specific software. These costs are amortised on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives.

Costs associated with maintaining computer software programmes are recognised as an expense as incurred. Costs that are directly associated with the production of identifiable and unique software products controlled by Sagentia, and that will probably generate economic benefit greater than one year, are recognised as intangible assets. Direct costs include the software development employee costs and an appropriate portion of relevant overheads.

Computer software development costs recognised as assets (see 2.7 re requirements of internally developed software) are amortised over their useful lives (not exceeding three years). 


2.5 Research expenditure

Research expenditure is written off as incurred.


2.6 Development expenditure 

Development expenditure is also written off as incurred, except where the Directors are satisfied that the technical, commercial and financial viability of individual project's criteria are met that would allow such costs to be capitalised. Sagentia recognises an intangible asset if it believes it can demonstrate the following:


The technical feasibility of completing the intangible asset so that it will be available for use or sale.

Its ability to complete and use or sell the intangible asset.

How the intangible asset will generate probable future economic benefits; either by the existence of a market for the output of the intangible asset or the intangible asset itself or, if it is to be used internally, the usefulness of the intangible asset.

The availability of adequate technical, financial and other resources to complete the development and to use or sell the intangible asset. 

Its ability to measure reliably the expenditure attributable to the intangible asset during its development. 


Identifiable expenditure is then capitalised and amortised over the period during which benefits are expected (3-5 years). 


2.7 Property, plant and equipment

Land and buildings as shown in the notes to the accounts comprise offices and laboratories at Harston Mill, Harston, CambridgeUK. Land and buildings are shown at historical cost less accumulated depreciation. Historical cost includes expenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition of the items. Cost may also include transfers from equity of any gains/losses on qualifying cash flow hedges of foreign currency purchases of property, plant and equipment.


Subsequent costs are included in the asset's carrying amount or recognised as a separate asset, as appropriate, only when it is probable that the future economic benefit associated with the item will flow to Sagentia and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. All other repairs and maintenance are charged to the income statement during the financial period in which they are incurred. 


Land is not depreciated. Depreciation on other assets is calculated using the straight line method to allocate their cost less their residual values over their estimated useful lives, as follows:

Buildings                        25 years 

Furniture and fittings    3-10 years
Equipment
                     3-4 years


The asset's residual values and useful lives are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at each balance sheet date.
 An asset's carrying amount is written down immediately to its recoverable amount, when an indicator of impairment is identified, in accordance with the policy note 2.5. 


Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing proceeds with carrying amount. These are included in the income statement. 


2.8 Investments

Sagentia classifies its investments that are not controlled investments as equity investments at fair value through profit or loss. Initial recognition is at fair value, with transaction costs expensed. 

Fair value through profit or loss investments that are not controlled investments are shown on the balance sheet at their fair value and any associated changes in fair value are included in the income statement in the period they arise.

Valuation policy - In determining fair value, investments have been valued by the Directors in compliance with the principles of the International Private Equity and Venture Capital Guidelines, updated and effective 1 January 2005, as recommended by the British Venture Capital Association (BVCA).

Listed investments - the fair values of quoted investments are based on bid prices at the balance sheet date.

Unlisted investments - the valuation methodology used most commonly by Sagentia is the 'price of recent investment', reflecting the early stage nature of the investments. 

The following considerations are used when calculating the fair value using the 'price of recent investment' guidelines:

Where the investment being valued was itself made recently, its cost will generally provide a good indication of fair value; and

Where there has been any recent investment by third parties, the price of that investment will provide a basis of the valuation.

Controlled investments - Sagentia also undertake investment activities in investments that are controlled, the performance of which, therefore, cannot be measured by changes in fair value arising from the investment activity of Sagentia. Sagentia identify these activities separately as Venture Subsidiaries, and such investments are consolidated, in accordance with Sagentia's policy on consolidation. 


2.9 Trade receivables

Trade receivables are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less provision for impairment. A provision for impairment of trade receivables is established when there is objective evidence that Sagentia will not be able to collect all the amounts due according to the original terms of receivables. The amount of the provision is the difference between the asset's carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows, discounted at the effective interest rate. The amount of the provision is recognised in the income statement.


2.10 Cash and cash equivalents    

Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short term highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities on the balance sheet.


2.11 Borrowings

Borrowings are recognised initially at fair value, net of transaction costs incurred. Borrowings are subsequently stated at amortised costs; any difference between the proceeds (net of transaction costs) and the redemption value is recognised in the income statement over the period of the borrowings using the effective interest method. 

Borrowings are classified as current liabilities unless Sagentia has an unconditional right to defer settlement of the liability for at least 12 months after the balance sheet date.


2.12 Share capital

Ordinary shares are classified as equity. Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares or options are shown in equity as a deduction, net of tax, from the proceeds.


Where any Group company purchases the Company's equity share capital (Treasury shares), the consideration paid, including any directly attributable incremental costs (net of income taxes,) is deducted from equity attributable to the Company's equity holders until the shares are cancelled, reissued or disposed of. Where such shares are subsequently sold or reissued, any consideration received, net of any directly attributable incremental transaction costs and the related income tax effects, and are included in equity attributable to the Company's equity holders.


Sagentia also has an Employee Share Ownership Trust (ESOT) for assisting with the obligations under share option and other employee remuneration schemes. The ESOT is consolidated as if it were a subsidiary. Shares in Sagentia held by the ESOT are stated at cost and presented in the balance sheet as a deduction from equity under the heading of Investment in Own Shares. Finance and administration costs relating to the ESOT are charged to operating costs.


2.13 Revenue recognition

Group revenue is measured at the fair value of consideration received or receivable by the Group and comprises the value of sales (excluding VAT) of services provided in the normal course of business. Sagentia revenue recognition policies by revenue type are as follows: 

Consulting revenues are recognised in proportion to the stage of completion of each project. The stage of completion takes into account the milestones achieved in relation to the project deliverables. Any success elements of consultancy revenues are recognised in the period when believed to be relatively certain and attributable. 

Licence and royalty income is recognised in the related period in line with the contract. 

Share of manufacturer's margin - income recognised in the related period in line with the agreement. 

Management fees (and any carried interest income) relating to the provision of investment management services are recognised when earned. Management fees are typically a percentage of funds under management.

Rental income from leases over property held is recognised in the related period in line with the lease agreement.


2.14 Long-term contracts

Amounts recoverable on long-term contracts, which are included in trade receivables, are stated at the value of the work done less amounts received as progress payments on account. Work done is calculated based on proportion of time spent on the project or value of stage gates achieved as set out in the project. Progress payments in excess of work done are included in payables as payments on account.


2.15 Foreign currency

(a)  Functional and presentation currency

Items included in the financial statements of each of Sagentia's entities are measured using the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity operates ('the functional currency'). The consolidated financial statements are presented in sterling, which is the Company's functional and presentation currency.


(b)  Transactions and balances

Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currency using the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from the translation at year-end exchange rates of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are recognised in the income statement.

In respect of translation differences on non-monetary items, items held at cost are translated at the exchange rate at the date of transaction and items held at fair value are translated at the exchange rate when the fair value was determined. 


(c)  Group companies

The results and financial position of all Sagentia entities (none of which has the currency of a hyperinflationary economy) that have a functional currency different from the presentation currency are translated into the presentation currency as follows'.

  • assets and liabilities for each balance sheet presented are translated at the closing rate at the date of that balance sheet; 

  • income and expenses for each income statement are translated at average exchange rates (unless this average is not a reasonable approximation of the cumulative effect of the rates prevailing on the transaction dates, in which case income and expenses are translated at the dates of the transactions); and 

  • All resulting exchange differences are recognised as a separate component of equity.


On consolidation, exchange differences arising from the translation of the net investment in foreign entities, and of borrowings and other currency instruments designated as hedges of such investments, are taken to shareholders' equity. When a foreign operation is sold, such exchange differences are recognised in the income statement as part of the gain or loss on sale. Goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on the acquisition of a foreign entity are treated as assets and liabilities of the foreign entity and translated at the closing rate.


2.16 Employee benefits

(a)  Pension obligations

Group companies operate various pension schemes. The schemes are generally funded through payments to insurance companies based on a percentage of salary earned, currently ranging between 0% and 20%, or trustee-administered funds determined by periodic actuarial calculations. Sagentia has defined contribution plans. A defined contribution plan is a pension plan under which Sagentia pays fixed contributions into a separate entity. Sagentia has no legal or constructive obligations to pay further contributions if the fund does not hold sufficient assets to pay all employees the benefits relating to employee service in the current and prior periods.

For defined contribution plans, Sagentia pays contributions to publicly or privately administered pension insurance plans on a mandatory, contractual or voluntary basis. Sagentia has no further payment obligations once the contributions have been paid. The contributions are recognised as employee benefit expense when they are due. Prepaid contributions are recognised as an asset to the extent that a cash refund or a reduction in the future payments is available.


(b) Share-based compensation

Sagentia operates an equity-settled, share-based compensation plan. The fair value of the employee services received in exchange for the grant of the options is recognised as an expense. The total amount to be expensed over the vesting period is determined by reference to the fair value of the options granted, as calculated using the Black-Scholes option- pricing method, excluding the impact of any non-market vesting conditions (for example, profitability and sales growth targets). Non-market vesting conditions are included in assumptions about the number of options that are expected to become exercisable. At each balance sheet date, the entity revises its estimates of the number of options that are expected to become exercisable. It recognises the impact of the revision of original estimates, if any, in the income statement, and a corresponding adjustment to equity over the remaining vesting period.

The proceeds received net of any directly attributable transaction costs are credited to share capital (nominal value) and share premium when the options are exercised.

Sagentia has elected to apply the share based payment exemption. It applied IFRS 2 from 1 January 2004 to those options that were issued after 7 November 2002 but that had not vested by 1 January 2005. 


(c) Termination benefits

Termination benefits are payable when employment is terminated before the normal retirement date, or whenever an employee accepts voluntary redundancy in exchange for these benefits. Sagentia recognises termination benefits when it is demonstrably committed to either: terminating the employment of current employees according to a detailed formal plan without possibility of withdrawal; or providing termination benefits as a result of an offer made to encourage voluntary redundancy. Benefits falling due more than 12 months after balance sheet date are discounted to present value.


 (d)  Profit-sharing and bonus plans

Sagentia recognises a liability and an expense for bonuses and profit-sharing, based on a formula that takes into consideration the profit attributable to the Company's shareholders after certain adjustments. Sagentia recognises a provision where contractually obliged or where there is a past practice that has created a constructive obligation


2.17 Deferred income tax

Deferred income tax is provided, using the liability method, on temporary differences arising between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the consolidated financial statements. However, if the deferred income tax arises from goodwill, the initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction other than a business combination that at the time of the transaction affects neither accounting nor taxable profit nor loss, it is not accounted for. Deferred income tax is determined using tax rates (and laws) that have been enacted or substantially enacted by the balance sheet date and are expected to apply when the related deferred income tax asset is realised or the deferred income tax liability is settled.

Deferred income tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the temporary differences can be utilised.

Deferred income tax is provided on temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiariesexcept where the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference is controlled by Sagentia and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.


2.18 Income Tax

Income tax is provided at amounts expected to be paid (or recovered) using the tax rates and laws of the relevant countries that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date.


2.19 Leases

In accordance with IAS 17, the economic ownership of a leased asset is transferred to the lessee if the lessee bears substantially all the risks and rewards related to the ownership of the leased asset. The related asset is recognised at the time of inception of the lease at the fair value of the leased asset or, if lower, the present value of the minimum lease payments plus incidental payments, if any, to be borne by the lessee. A corresponding amount is recognised as a finance leasing liability. Leases of land and buildings are split into land and buildings elements according to the relative fair values of the leasehold interests at the date the asset is initially recognised. 

The interest element of leasing payments represents a constant proportion of the capital balance outstanding and is charged to the income statement over the period of the lease.

All other leases are treated as operating leases and are charged on a straightߛline basis over the lease term, even if payments are not made on such a basis.

Income from property leases is recognised in the related period in line with the lease agreement.


2.20 Capitalisation of borrowing costs and interest

Finance costs of debt are recognised in the profit and loss account over the term of such instruments at a constant rate on the carrying amount. Finance costs which are directly attributable to the construction of qualifying assets are capitalised as part of the cost of those assets. The commencement of capitalisation begins when both finance costs and expenditures for the asset are being incurred and activities that are necessary to get the asset ready for use are in progress. Capitalisation ceases when substantially all the activities that are necessary to get the asset ready for use are complete.


2.21 Financial instruments

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss include financial assets that are either classified as held for trading or are designated by the entity to be carried at fair value through profit or loss upon initial recognition. By definition, all derivative financial instruments that do not qualify for hedge accounting fall into this category. However, no other type of Sagentia's financial instruments currently falls into this category. 

Any gain or loss arising from derivative financial instruments is based on changes in fair value, which is determined by direct reference to active market transactions or using a valuation technique where no active market exists. 


3 Financial risk management

3.1 Financial risk factors

Sagentia's activities expose it to a variety of financial risks: market risk (including currency risk, fair value interest risk and price risk), credit risk, liquidity risk and cash flow interest-rate risk. Sagentia's overall risk management programme focuses on the unpredictability of financial markets and seeks to minimise potential adverse effects on Sagentia's financial performance. Sagentia uses derivative financial instruments to hedge certain risk exposures.


Risk management is carried out by a central treasury department (Group Treasury) under policies approved by the Board of Directors. Group Treasury identifies, evaluates and hedges financial risks in close co-operation with Sagentia's operating units. The Board provides written principles for overall risk management, as well as written policies covering specific areas, such as foreign exchange risk, interest-rate risk, credit risk, use of derivative financial instruments and non-derivative financial instruments, and investing excess liquidity.


(a)  Foreign currency sensitivity 

Sagentia operates internationally and is exposed to foreign exchange risk arising from various currency exposures, primarily with respect to the US dollar, Euro and Hong Kong dollar. Foreign exchange risk arises from commercial transactions, recognised assets and liabilities and net investments in foreign operations.

To manage their foreign exchange risk arising from commercial transactions, recognised assets and liabilities, entities in Sagentia use forward contracts, transacted with Group Treasury. Foreign exchange risk arises when commercial transactions, recognised assets and liabilities are denominated in a currency that is not the entity's functional currency. Group Treasury is responsible for managing the net position in each foreign currency by using external forward currency contracts. There were no forward currency contracts at the year end.  

Sagentia's risk management policy is to hedge anticipated transactions when there is certainty of receipt of funds. 


Sagentia has certain investments in foreign operations, whose net assets are exposed to foreign currency translation risk. Currency exposure arising from the net assets of Sagentia's foreign operations is managed primarily through borrowings denominated in the relevant foreign currencies.


Foreign currency denominated financial assets and liabilities, translated into GBP at the closing rate, are as follows.


2008 £000

US$

  Euro


HK$

Swedish Krona

Other







Financial assets

1,528

972

155

285

7,825

Financial liabilities

(33)

(16)

(59)

(133)

(1,631)

Short-term exposure

1,495

956

96

152

6,194








Financial assets

-

-

-

-

5,291

Financial liabilities

-

-

-

(73)

(9,846)

Long-term exposure

-

-

-

(73)

(4,555)


2007 £000

US$

  Euro


HK$

Swedish Krona

Other







Financial assets

911

523

284

144

5,180

Financial liabilities

(17)

(51)

(44)

(93)

(1,439)

Short-term exposure

894

472

240

51

3,741








Financial assets

17

-

-

-

7,553

Financial liabilities

-

-

(10)

(65)

(7,368)

Long-term exposure

17

-

(10)

(65)

185


The following table illustrates the sensitivity of the net movement on reserves and equity in regards to Sagentia's financial assets and financial liabilities and the US dollar/GBP exchange rate, Euro/GBP exchange rate and Hong Kong dollar/GBP exchange rate. It assumes a +/- 25% change of the GBP / US dollar exchange rate for the year ended at 31 December 2008 (20075%). A +/- 20% change is considered for the GBP / Euro exchange rate (200710%). A +/- 20% change is considered for the GBP / Hong Kong dollar exchange rate (20075%). Each of these percentages has been determined based on the month on month volatility in exchange rates in the previous 12 months. The sensitivity analysis is based on Sagentia's foreign currency financial instruments held at each balance sheet date and also takes into account forward exchange contracts that offset effects from changes in currency exchange rates. 


If the GBhad strengthened against the US dollar, Euro and Hong Kong dollar by 25% (20075%), 20% (200710%) and 20% (20075%) respectively then this would have had the following impact:


2008 £000

US$

  Euro


HK$

Total






Profit and loss

(374)

(191)

(19)

(584)

Equity

(374)

(191)

(19)

(584)



If the GBP had weakened against the US dollar, Euro and Hong Kong dollar by 25% (20075%), 20% (200710%) and 10% (200720%) respectively then this would have had the following impact:


2008 £000

US$

  Euro


HK$

Total






Profit and loss

374

191

19

584

Equity

374

191

19

584


Exposures to foreign exchange rates vary during the year depending on the volume of overseas transactions. Nonetheless, the analysis above is considered to be representative of Sagentia's exposure to currency risk. 


(b)  Interest rate sensitivity

Sagentia's policy is to minimise interest rate cash flow exposures on long term financing. Longer term borrowings are therefore usually at fixed rates. At 31 December 2008, Sagentia is exposed to changes in market interest rates through its short term bank borrowings, which are subject to variable interest rates - see note 20 for further information. 

Sagentia manages its longer term cash flow interest-rate risk by using floating-to-fixed interest-rate swaps. Such interest-rate swaps have the economic effect of converting borrowings from floating rates to fixed rates. Generally, Sagentia raises long-term borrowings at floating rates and swaps them into fixed rates that are lower than those available if Sagentia borrowed at fixed rates directly. Under the interest-rate swaps, Sagentia agrees with other parties to exchange, at specified intervals (mainly quarterly), the difference between fixed contract rates and floating-rate interest amounts calculated by reference to the agreed notional principal amounts.


Sagentia's bank borrowings and their interest rate profile are as follows:







2008
£000

2007
£000

Sterling - bank loan



9,000

7,578

Swedish Krona - bank loan



113

58




9,113

7,636

Weighted average interest rate



%

%

Sterling - fixed rate bank loan



7.1

7.1

Sterling - floating rate bank loan



Base+0.8%

Base+0.8%

Swedish Krona - floating rate bank loan 



5.5

5.5


For benchmark rates of interest, Sagentia refers to both the LIBOR and EUROBOR rates.

The bank loans are secured via a fixed charge over assets of Sagentia and are repayable as disclosed in Note 20.

Terms and conditions of the interest rate swap are as disclosed in Note 18


The following table illustrates the sensitivity of the net result for the year and equity to a reasonably possible change in interest rates of +1.0% and -1.0% (2007: +/- 0.5%), with effect from the beginning of the year. These changes are considered to be reasonably possible based on observation of current market conditions. The calculations are based on Sagentia's financial instruments held at each balance sheet date. All other variables are held constant.     




2008
£000

2008
£000

2007
£000

2007
£000


+1.0%

-1.0%

+0.5%

-0.5%

Net result for the year

(45)

45

(12)

12

Equity

(45)

45

(12)

12


(c)  Price risk 

Sagentia is exposed to other price risk in respect of its listed equity securities, and the participation in CMR Fuel Cells plc. Sagentia's sensitivity to price risk in regards to its participation in CMR Fuel Cells plc cannot be reliably determined due to numerous uncertainties regarding the future development of the company

Sagentia holds 2,234,540 shares (2007 - 2,234,540 shares) in CMR Fuel Cells plc. If the share price moves by +/- 1p then Sagentia's investment at fair value moves by +/- £22,345. 


Any investments in listed equity securities are considered long-term, strategic investments. In accordance with Sagentia's policies, no specific hedging activities are undertaken in relation to these investments. The investments are continuously monitored and voting rights arising from these equity instruments are utilised in Sagentia's favour. 


 (d)  Credit risk analysis

Sagentia has no significant concentrations of credit risk. It has policies in place to ensure that sales are made to clients with an appropriate credit history. Derivative counterparties and cash transactions are limited to high-credit-quality financial institutions. Sagentia has policies that limit the amount of credit exposure to any financial institution.


Sagentia's exposure to credit risk is limited to the carrying amount of financial assets recognised at the balance sheet date, as summarised below:






2008
£000

2007
£000

Classes of financial assets - carrying amounts





-Loans and receivables - non current assets



1,200

1,678

Designated at fair value through profit and loss





-equity investments



4,091

5,892

Cash and cash equivalents 



5,341

859

Trade and other receivables



5,425

6,183




16,057

14,612


Sagentia continuously monitors defaults of customers and other counterparties, identified either individually or by group, and incorporates this information into its credit risk controls. Where available at reasonable cost, external credit ratings and / or reports on customers and other counterparties are obtained and used. Sagentia's policy is to deal only with creditworthy counterparties. 

Sagentia's management considers that all the above financial assets that are not impaired for each of the reporting dates under review are of good credit quality, including those that are past due. 

None of Sagentia's financial assets are secured by collateral or other credit enhancements. 

In respect of trade and other receivables, Sagentia is not exposed to any significant credit risk exposure to any single counterparty or any group of counterparties having similar characteristics. The credit risk for liquid funds and other short-term financial assets is considered negligible, since the counterparties are reputable banks with high quality external credit ratings. 


(e)  Liquidity risk analysis

Sagentia manages its liquidity needs by monitoring scheduled debt servicing payments for long-term financial liabilities as well as cash-outflows due in day-to-day business. Liquidity needs are monitored on a weekly and monthly basis. Long-term liquidity needs for a quarterly and semi-annual period are reviewed monthly. 

Sagentia maintains cash to meet its liquidity requirements in interest bearing current accounts. Funding for long-term liquidity needs is secured by committed credit facilities. 


As at 31 December 2008, Sagentia's liabilities have contractual maturities which are summarised below:

2008

Current

Non-current

Within

6

months

 6 to 12

months

1 to 5 

years

> 5 

years


£000

£000

£000

£000

Bank loans

113

-

9,430

-

Trade payables

1,760

-

-

-

Derivatives

-

-

489

-


1,873

-

9,919

-


This compares to the maturity of Sagentia's financial liabilities in the previous reporting period as follows:

2007

Current

Non-current

Within

6

months

 6 to 12

months

1 to 5 

years

> 5 

years


£000

£000

£000

£000

Bank loans

823

-

7,243

-

Trade payables

821

-

-

-

Derivatives

-

-

200

-


1,644

-

7,443

-


The above contractual maturities reflect the date of maturation, but exclude interest and interest payable and so reflect the carrying values of the liabilities at the balance sheet date. 


 (f)  Summary of financial assets and liabilities by category 

The carrying amounts of Sagentia's financial assets and liabilities as recognised at the balance sheet date of the reporting periods under review may also be categorised as follows. 



Company


   Group


2008

£000

2007
£000


2008

£000

2007
£000

Non-current assets






Loans and receivables 

-

-


1,200

1,678

Designated at fair value through profit and loss - equity investments 


10,510


-



4,091


5,892


10,510

-


5,291

7,570

Current assets






Trade and other receivables: 






 - trade receivables

-

-


5,425

6,183

Cash and cash equivalents

-

-


5,341

859


-

-


10,766

7,042

Non current liabilities






Borrowings:






 Other financial liabilities at amortised cost

-

-


9,430

7,243

Derivative financial instruments:






 - Financial liabilities held for trading (carried at fair value 






  through profit and loss)

-

-


489

200


-

-


9,919

7,443

Current liabilities






Borrowings:






 - Financial liabilities at amortised cost

1

-


113

823

Amounts due to Group undertakings

496

-


-

-

Trade payables:






 - Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost 

23

-


1,760

821


520

-


1,873

1,644



3.2 Fair value estimation

 (a) Financial instruments 

The fair value of financial instruments traded in active markets is based on quoted market prices at the balance sheet date. The quoted market price used for financial assets held by Sagentia is the current bid price. Non quoted financial assets are valued using BVCA methodology.

The fair value of financial instruments that are not traded in an active market is determined by using valuation techniques. Sagentia uses a variety of methods and makes assumptions that are based on market conditions existing at each balance sheet date. Techniques, such as estimated discounted cash flows, are used to determine fair value for non-traded financial instruments. 


(b) Interest rate-swaps

The fair value of interest-rate swaps is calculated as the present value of the estimated future cash flows. 


(c) Trade receivables and payables 

Trade receivables and payables are valued at amortised cost; where the amount payable or receivable plus cost of credit is assumed to approximate their fair value.


4      Segment information

Primary reporting format - business segments

On 31 December 2008, Sagentia was organised on a worldwide basis into four main business segments:





Year ended 31 December 2008

Consulting
and IP exploitation

£000

Venture subsidiaries


£000

Asset management

£000

Property

and central services

£000

Total



£000

Fees 

22,351

44

214

3,329

25,938

Recharged project expenses

4,005

-

-

429

4,434

Licence / royalty income

254

-

-

-

254

Less: Inter company trading

(41)

-

-

(1,514)

(1,555)

Revenue

26,569

44

214

2,244

29,071







Expenses

(20,664)

(1,027)

(216)

(2,945)

(24,852)

Recharged project expenses

(4,005)

-

-

(429)

(4,434)

Less: Inter company trading

41

-

-

1,514

1,555

Expenses

(24,628)

(1,027)

(216)

(1,860)

(27,731)







Gross profit (loss)

1,941

(983)

(2)

384

1,340

Profit on disposal of investments

-

-

-

-

-

Change in fair value of financial assets


-


-


(1,982)


-


(1,982)

Redomiciliation costs 

-

-

-

(589)

(589)

Cost of options

(146)

-

-

(24)

(170)







Operating profit (loss)

1,795

(983)

(1,984)

(229)

(1,401)

Finance charges





(809)

Loss before income tax





(2,210)

Tax income





123

Loss for the year





(2,087)







Balance sheet analysis






Intangible assets 

14

-

-

-

14

-Amortisation

(13)

-

-

-

(13)

Property, plant and equipment

4,511

283

-

16,731

21,525

-Depreciation

(3,819)

(10)

-

(2,688)

(6,517)


693

273

-

14,043

15,009







Investments

-

-

5,291

-

5,291

Deferred income tax assets

-

-

-

2,633

2,633

Current assets (excluding cash)

6,467

83

-

298

6,848

Cash and cash equivalents

3,887

567

-

887

5,341

Total assets

11,047

923

5,291

17,861

35,122







Total liabilities 

6,282

658

-

13,239

20,179

Total equity

4,765

265

5,291

4,622

14,943

Total equity and liabilities

11,047

923

5,291

17,861

35,122


On 31 December 2007, Sagentia was organised on a worldwide basis into four main business segments:





Year ended 31 December 2007

Consulting
and IP exploitation

£000

Venture subsidiaries


£000

Asset management


£000

Property

and central services

£000

Total



£000

Fees 

17,852

169

689

2,621

21,331

Recharged project expenses

2,737

-

-

-

2,737

Licence / royalty income

387

-

-

-

387

Less: Inter company trading

(50)

-

(226)

(1,217)

(1,493)

Revenue

20,926

169

463

1,404

22,962







Expenses

(17,699)

(1,559)

(634)

(2,574)

(22,466)

Recharged project expenses

(2,737)

-

-

-

(2,737)

Less: Inter company trading

50

-

226

1,217

1,493

Expenses

(20,386)

   (1,559)

(408)

(1,357)

(23,710)







Gross (loss) profit

540

(1,390)

55

47

(748)

Profit on disposal of investments

-

-

1,376

-

1,376

Change in fair value of financial assets

-

-

(3,701)

-

(3,701)

Bonus accrual 

-

-

327

-

327

Cost of options

(67)

-

(7)

(9)

(83)







Operating loss

473

(1,390)

(1,950)

38

(2,829)

Finance charges





(485)

Loss before income tax





(3,314)

Tax income





80

Loss for the year





(3,234)







Balance sheet analysis (restated)






Intangible assets 

14

-

-

-

14

-Amortisation

(9)

-

-

-

(9)

Property, plant and equipment

4,441

44

16

16,724

21,225

-Depreciation

(3,999)

(44)

(16)

(2,592)

(6,651)


447

-

-

14,132

14,579

Investments

-

-

7,570

-

7,570

Deferred income tax assets

-

-

-

2,657

2,657

Current assets (excluding cash)

7,460

39

(1,588)

1,881

7,792

Cash and cash equivalents

(169)

1

201

826

859

Total assets

7,738

40

6,183

19,496

33,457







Total liabilities 

5,661

14

2

10,242

15,919

Total equity

2,077

26

6,181

9,254

17,538

Total equity and liabilities

7,738

40

6,183

19,496

33,457



Capital expenditure by business and geographical segment





Year ended 31 December 2008

Consulting
and IP exploitation

£000

Venture subsidiaries


£000

Asset management


£000

Property

and central services

£000



Total
£000







United Kingdom

275

283

-

-

558

Other European countries

138

-

-

-

138

North America

58

-

-

-

58

Other

10

-

-

-

10


481

283

-

-

764





Year ended 31 December 2007

Consulting
and IP exploitation

£000

Venture subsidiaries


£000

Asset management

£000

Property

and central services

£000



Total

£000







United Kingdom

70

-

-

5

75

Other European countries

92

-

-

-

92

North America

17

-

-

-

17

Other

16

-

-

-

16


195

-

-

5

200


Secondary reporting format - geographical segments

Sagentia's four business segments operate in four main geographical areas, even though they are managed on a worldwide basis. 

Revenue by geographical area is as follows:







United Kingdom

£000

Other European countries £000


North America 

£000



Other

£000 



Total 

£000

Year ended 31 December 2008

19,179

5,078

3,892

922

29,071

Year ended 31 December 2007

11,839

5,555

4,736

832

22,962


For the purpose of the analysis of revenue, geographical markets are defined as the country or area in which the client is based. Revenue and operating results arise from Sagentia's principal activities and are primarily generated by employees of Sagentia's United Kingdom subsidiary undertakings.


Assets by geographical area is as follows 






United Kingdom

£000

Other European countries £000


North America 

£000



Other

£000 



Total 

£000

Year ended 31 December 2008

27,990

6,029

909

194

35,122

Year ended 31 December 2007

25,187

7,374

585

311

33,457

For the purpose of the analysis of assets, geographical markets are defined as the country or area in which the asset is based. 



5    Operating expenses

Expenses by nature

Year ended 31 December



Note

2008
£000

2007
£000

Employee benefit expense (excluding share options)



7


14,085


13,303

Rechargeable project expenses



4,005

2,737

Operating third party expenses



3,468

1,473

Occupancy costs



1,492

1,684

Equipment and consumables



880

918

Selling and marketing expenses



1,785

1,654

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment



13




371


405

Patent fees



141

293

Recruitment and training



670

345

Amortisation of intangible assets


12

4

4

Foreign currency losses (gains)



-

16

Other



834

878





27,731

23,710





Included above



2008
£000

2007
£000

Research and development



6,227

6,085

Operating lease rentals   





 Plant and machinery   



62

52

 Other



55

138






Auditors' remuneration





Services to the Company and its subsidiaries 





Fees payable to the Company's auditors for the audit of the financial statements



13

23

Fees payable to the Company's auditors and its associates for other services:





Audit of the financial statements of the Company's subsidiaries pursuant to legislation




73


63

Other services supplied pursuant to legislation



-

7

Other services relating to corporate finance transaction



60

-







6.      Finance income and finance costs

Finance costs include all interest-related income and expenses, other than those arising from financial assets at fair value through the profit or loss. The following have been included in the income statement for the reporting periods presented:


Year ended 31 December



2008
£000

2007
£000

Finance income





Bank interest receivable and similar income



16

86






Finance costs





Bank loans and overdrafts



(536)

(552)


    Other financial result

Year ended 31 December



2008
£000

2007
£000






Change in fair value of interest rate swap



(289)

(19)








7    Employee benefit expense

Employment costs are shown below:

Year ended 31 December



2008
£000

2007
£000

Wages and salaries (including bonuses and healthcare costs)




11,401


10,807

Social security costs



1,717

1,538

Share options granted to directors and employees



170

83

Other pension costs



966

958




14,254

13,386


The average monthly number of persons employed (including executive directors) by Sagentia was as follows:

Year ended 31 December



2008
Number

2007
Number

Technology consultants 



171

153

Marketing, support, administration and other 





technically-qualified staff



53

60




224

213



8    Directors' remuneration, interests and transactions

Aggregate remuneration

Year ended 31 December



2008
£000

2007
£000

Emoluments



408

154

Bonuses



120

-

Money purchase pension scheme contributions



34

2




562

156







Directors' emoluments and benefits include

Year ended 31 December 2008


Name of Director




Salary/fee

£000




Bonuses

£000



Taxable

Benefits

£000



Pension contribution

£000





Total
£000

Masters

50

-

-

-


50

Brown

112

73

1

18


204

Flicos

129

27

2

3


161

McCarthy

88

20

1

13


122

Ahlberg

10

-

-

-


10

Kylberg

15

-

-

-


15

Aggregate emoluments

404

120

4

34


562








Year ended 31 December 2007


Name of Director

    



Salary/fee

£000




Bonuses

£000



Taxable

Benefits

£000



Pension contribution

£000


    



Total
£000

Masters

50

-

-

-


50

Brown

-

-

-

-


-

Flicos

88

-

1

2


91

McCarthy

-

-

-

-


-

Ahlberg

-

-

-

-


-

Kylberg

15

-

-

-


15

Aggregate emoluments

153

-

1

2


156


Directors' emoluments and benefits are stated for the directors to Sagentia Group plc only. They include all emoluments and benefits earned from the date of appointment to the board of Sagentia Group plc together with any emoluments and benefits earned for those directors of Sagentia Group AG prior to the appointment as directors of Sagentia Group plc

The above figures for emoluments do not include any gains made on the exercise of share options received under long-term incentive schemes. 

Of the share based payment charge shown in the consolidated income statement for 2008, £8,000 relates to Brown and £1,000 to both Flicos and McCarthy (2007 - £Nil).


9    Tax income 

The tax credit comprises:

Year ended 31 December



2008
£000

2007
£000

Foreign taxation



15

(16)

Current taxation



108

96

Deferred taxation (Note 10)



-

-




123

80


The tax on Sagentia's losses before tax differs from the theoretical amount that would arise using the weighted average statutory tax rate applicable to profits of the consolidated companies as follows:



2008
£000

2007
£000

Loss before tax


(2,210)

(3,314)

Tax calculated at domestic tax rates applicable to profits 




 (losses) in the respective countries


(630)

(994)

Expenses not deductible for tax purposes


624

545

Income not subject to tax 


(20)

(101)

Accelerated capital allowances


(139)

(205)

R&D tax relief


(228)

(203)

R&D tax credit received in respect of prior years


(104)

(96)

Other temporary differences


(5)

33

Tax losses for which no deferred income tax asset was recognised



379


941

Tax credit


(123)

(80)


The weighted average statutory applicable tax rate was 28.5% (2007: 30%).

The Group has available tax losses of approximately £68.8m (2007: £78.8m). 



10    Deferred income tax

Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets against current tax liabilities and when the deferred income taxes relate to the same fiscal authority and the intention is to settle net. The offset amounts are as follows:





2008

£000

2007

£000

Deferred tax assets:





Deferred tax asset to be recovered after more than 12 months


2,633

2,657



2,633

2,657

Deferred tax liabilities:




Deferred tax liabilities to be settled after more than 12 months


(2,633)

(2,657)



(2,633)

(2,657)





Total


-

-


The gross movement on the deferred income tax account is as follows:





2008

£000

2007

£000

Beginning of the year



-

-

Exchange differences


-

-

Income statement charge (Note 9)


-

-

End of year


-

-


The movement in deferred tax assets and liabilities during the year, without taking into consideration the offsetting of balances within the same tax jurisdiction, is as follows:




Deferred tax liability**


Deferred tax asset*


Total

At 1 January 2007


(3,014)

3,014

-

Charged / (credited) to the income statement


357

(357)

-

Exchange differences


-

-

-

At 31 December 2007


(2,657)

2,657

-

Charged / (credited) to the income statement



24


(24)

-

Exchange differences


-

-

-

At 31 December 2008


(2,633)

2,633

-

*Tax losses

**Accelerated tax depreciation


Deferred income tax assets are recognised for tax loss carry-forwards to the extent that the realisation of the related tax benefit through the future taxable profits is probable. Sagentia did not recognise deferred income tax assets of £16,982,000 (2007: £20,994,000) in respect of losses amounting to £59,586,000 (2007: £70,273,000) and other temporary differences amounting to £68,000 (2007: £88,000) that can be carried forward against future taxable income. 


The Company did not recognise deferred income tax assets of £6,000 in respect of losses amounting to £13,000 that can be carried forward against future taxable income.



11    Loss per share

The calculations of loss per share are based on the following losses and numbers of shares:



Basic




2008
£000

2007
£000


Loss for the financial year




(2,087)


(3,234)



Weighted average number of shares:



2008
Number

2007
Number

For basic earnings per share 



21,474,900

21,474,900

For fully diluted earnings per share



21,582,916

21,474,900


Only the share options granted, as disclosed in note 17, are dilutive. Options have no dilutive effect in loss-making years, and hence the diluted loss per share for 2008 is the same as the basic loss per share. 



12    Intangible assets

Group


    





Software
£000

At 1 January 2007





Cost 




14

Accumulated amortisation




(5)

Net book amount




9

Year ended 31 December 2007





Opening net book amount




9

Amortisation charge




(4)

Closing net book amount




5

At 31 December 2007





Cost 




14

Accumulated amortisation




(9)

Net book amount




5

Year ended 31 December 2008





Opening net book amount




5

Amortisation charge




(4)

Closing net book amount




1

At 31 December 2008





Cost 




14

Accumulated amortisation




(13)

Net book amount




1


Computer software is amortised on a straight line basis over its estimated useful life of 3 years. The annual amortisation charge is recognised in operating expenses of core operations in the income statement. 


Sagentia Group plc had no intangible assets at the start or end of the year. 



13    Property plant and equipment


Group

Freehold land and
buildings

£000


  Furniture 

and fittings

£000



Equipment
£000



Total
£000

At 1 January 2007





Cost 

16,682

1,189

3,200

21,071

Accumulated depreciation

(2,474)

(920)

(2,890)

(6,284)

Net book amount

14,208

269

310

14,787

Year ended 31 December 2007





Opening net book amount

14,208

269

310

14,787

Exchange differences on cost

-

(1)

(13)

(14)

Exchange differences on depreciation

-

1

9

10

Additions

-

48

152

200

Disposals

-

-

(32)

(32)

Depreciation charge

(85)

(104)

(216)

(405)

Depreciation on disposals

-

-

28

28

Closing net book amount

14,123

213

238

14,574

At 31 December 2007





Cost 

16,682

1,236

3,307

21,225

Accumulated depreciation

(2,559)

(1,023)

(3,069)

(6,651)

Net book amount

14,123

213

238

14,574

Year ended 31 December 2008





Opening net book amount

14,123

213

238

14,574

Exchange differences on cost

-

15

233

248

Exchange differences on depreciation

-

(14)

(193)

(207)

Additions

-

179

585

764

Disposals

-

-

(712)

(712)

Depreciation charge

(86)

(92)

(193)

(371)

Depreciation on disposals

-

-

712

712

Closing net book amount

14,037

301

670

15,008

At 31 December 2008





Cost 

16,682

1,430

3,413

21,525 

Accumulated depreciation

(2,645)

(1,129)

(2,743)

(6,517)

Net book amount

14,037

301

670

15,008


The property is held at cost less depreciation. Included within land and buildings for Sagentia is freehold land, to the value of £1,360,000 (2007: £1,360,000) which has not been depreciated. Cumulative interest capitalised up to 31 December 2003 was £340,000. No further interest has been capitalised since. The property was last valued during August 2008 by Savills for Lloyds TSB. Under the assumptions used, including tenant covenant strength and market rents, the indicative valuation for the building under a sale and leaseback scenario is £13.75m The directors therefore do not believe that the carrying value of the property is significantly different to its fair value.


The property generated rental income of £2,249,000 in 2008 (2007: £1,713,000) of which £989,000 (2007: £868,000) was charged to related group companies. The interest in freehold land and buildings has been charged as security to the bank loan (see Note 20).


Sagentia Group plc had no fixed assets at the start or end of the year.



14    Investments



Company

Group

Designated at fair value through profit or loss    

Equity investments

£000

Loans and receivables

£000


Total

£000

Equity investments

£000

Loans and receivables

£000


Total

£000

Fair value, January 2007

-

-

-

9,443

1,836

11,279

Additions

-

-

-

315

-

315

Disposals

-

-

-

(130)

(193)

(323)

Change in fair value

-

-

-

(3,736)

35

(3,701)

Foreign exchange

-

-

-

-

-

-

Fair value, December 2007

-

-

-

5,892

1,678

7,570








Fair value, January 2008

-

-

-

5,892

1,678

7,570

Additions

10,510

-

10,510

-

-

-

Disposals

-

-

-

(216)

(84)

(300)

Change in fair value

-

-

-

(1,590)

(392)

(1,982)

Impairment of financial assets

-

-

-

-

-

-

Foreign exchange

-

-

-

5

(2)

3

Fair value, December 2008

10,510

-

10,510

4,091

1,200

5,291


All disposals during the year were for a cash consideration.


Financial assets held at fair value include the following:



Company

Group


Group 

2008
£000

2007
£000

2008
£000

2007
£000






Quoted securities





Cost - equity securities - UK

-

-

1,268

1,425

   - equity securities - US

-

-

-

-


-

-

1,268

1,425

Fair value adjustment

-

-

380

701


-

-

1,648

2,126






Unquoted securities





Cost

10,510

-

6,273

10,202

Fair value adjustment

-

-

(3,830)

(6,436)


10,510

-

2,443

3,766



-



Financial assets held at fair value 

10,510

-

4,091

5,892



Quoted securities are listed investments with fair value based on bid prices at the balance sheet date. 

Unquoted securities are unlisted investments with fair value based on a valuation methodology used most commonly by Sagentia, being as set out by the BVCA as described in note 2, reflecting the early stage nature of the investments. 



Disposal of subsidiary undertakings in 2008


Group




Chord Capital Ltd

£000


Non-current assets






Intellectual Property




-


- Property, plant and equipment




-


Current assets




49


Borrowings




-


Current liabilities




(39)


Total equity




10


Minority interests




-


Cash invested




-


Realised profit on sale




-


Unrealised gain on issue of shares




-


Cost of investment




-


Sale proceeds




10



Chord Capital Ltd, and its subsidiary Cascade Generics Ltd, was sold in July 2008 for an total cash consideration of £10,000before costs of disposal of £NilChord Capital Ltd incurred a loss after taxation and minority interests of £2,000 before the disposal. 


During 2008Chord Capital Ltd utilised £11,000 of Sagentia's net operating cash flows, paid £Nil in respect of net returns on financial assets and servicing of finance, and utilised £Nil for capital expenditure and financial investment.


The sale of Intrasonics Ltd to Mainframe Participarties BV was the only disposal of operating subsidiaries during 2007


Principal Group investments

Sagentia held investments in the following subsidiaries and investments at 31 December 2008. To avoid a statement of excessive length, details of investments that are not significant have been omitted.


Subsidiary and investments of Sagentia Group plc

Country of incorporation

Principal activity

Shares held

%

Core Operations





  Sagentia Group AG

Switzerland

Holding company

Ordinary

99.6

  Sagentia Holdings Limited

England

Holding company

Ordinary

100

  Sagentia Limited

England

Consultancy

Ordinary

100

  Manage5nines Limited

England

IT Consultancy

Ordinary

80

  Sagentia Inc.

USA

Consultancy

Ordinary

100

  Sagentia S-GAI Limited

Hong Kong

Consultancy

Ordinary 

63

  Sagentia GmbH

Germany

Consultancy

Ordinary

100

  Sagentia Catella AB

Sweden

Battery technology

Ordinary

100

Venture Subsidiaries





  Atranova™ Limited

England

Battery technology

Ordinary

81

  Sensopad Limited

England

Sensor technology

Ordinary

77

  Sagentia Sensors Ltd

England

Sensor technology

Ordinary

77

Investments





  Sphere Medical Holding Limited

England

Medical sensor technology

Ords & A's

11

  CMR Fuel Cells plc*

England

Fuel cell technology

Ordinary

11

  Atraverda™ Limited 

England

Battery technology

Ords & A's 

18

  Sensortec Limited

Jersey

Environmental sensing technology

Ordinary

12

Quoted on the UK Alternative Investment Market (AIM).


All subsidiaries for which accounts are provided have year-ends of 31 December.



15    Trade and other receivables


Company

Group



2008
£000

2007
£000

2008
£000

2007
£000

Current assets:





Trade receivables

-

-

5,651

6,280

Provision for impairment

-

-

(226)

(97)

Trade receivables - net

-

-

5,425

6,183

Amounts recoverable on contracts

-

-

737

1,350

VAT

6

-

73

23

Prepayments and accrued income

-

-

533

177


6

-

6,768

7,733

Current tax asset

-

-

80

59


6

-

6,848

7,792


All amounts disclosed above are short-term. The carrying value of trade receivables is considered a reasonable approximation of fair value. 

All of Sagentia's trade and other receivables have been reviewed for indicators of impairment. Certain trade receivables were found to be impaired and a provision of £226,000 has been provided in the year (2007: £97,000). 

In addition, some of the unimpaired trade receivables are past due as at the reporting date. The age of financial assets past due but not impaired is as follows:



Company

Group



2008
£000

2007
£000

2008
£000

2007
£000

Not more than 3 months

-

-

5,128

6,025

More than 3 months but not more than 6 months 

-

-

255

123

More than 6 months but not more than 1 year

-

-

42

22

More than 1 year 

-

-

-

13


-

-

5,425

6,183



16    Cash and cash equivalents


Company

Group



2008
£000

2007
£000

2008
£000

2007
£000

Short term bank deposits

-

-

-

-

Cash at bank and in hand

-

-

5,341

859


-

-

5,341

859


Of the cash at bank and in hand detailed above, the following amounts are held, principally in our venture subsidiary companies and are for use within those companies. 





Group





2008
£000

2007
£000

Cash held within spin-out companies



567

1


Effective interest rates achieved are shown in Note 3.



17    Called-up share capital





2008
£000

2007*
£000

Authorised





Ordinary shares of £0.01 each



464

464

Convertible preference shares of £1.00 each



50

-

Allotted, called-up and fully paid





Ordinary shares of £0.01 each



215

215

Convertible preference shares of £1.00 each



50

-




Number

Number

Authorised





Ordinary shares of £0.01 each



46,386,390

46,386,390

Convertible preference shares of £1.00 each



50,000

-

Allotted, called-up and fully paid





Ordinary shares of £0.01 each



21,474,900

21,474,900

Convertible preference shares of £1.00 each



50,000

-

*The 2007 comparatives show the consolidated position as though the ordinary shares were in issue and had been exchanged for Sagentia Group AG shares in line with the accounting treatment explained in Note 2.


Sagentia Group plc was incorporated in England and Wales on 17 March 2008Authorised share capital on incorporation  comprised 46,386,390 ordinary shares of £0.01 each and 50,000 convertible preference shares of £1 each. Of the ordinary shares, 2 were issued at par on incorporation. The remainder have been issued over 6 tranches between 8 July 2008 to 14 November 2008 as part of the Sagentia Group plc offer for Sagentia Group AG, where 1 Sagentia Group plc share was exchanged for 10 Sagentia Group AG shares. 

The convertible preference shares were issued at par on 30 May 2008. Each convertible preference share may be converted into 2.96 ordinary shares (the total ordinary shares created to be rounded down to the nearest whole number)


Sagentia Group plc holds an interest in its own shares. At 31 December 2008Sagentia Group AG held 61,080  (200761,080)   ordinary shares of £0.01 each in Sagentia Group plc, and Sagentia Group Employee Share Trust held 50,000 (2007: Nil) convertible preference shares and 4,210 (20074,210ordinary shares in Sagentia Group plc. These shares are to be utilised against share options already granted. 


On 9 January 2009 a further 19,671 shares were issued in exchange for 196,721 Sagentia Group AG shares.


The value of Sagentia Group plc shares, as quoted on the London Stock Exchange plc at 31 December 2008, was 17.0 pence per share (200740p).


Reconciliation of options in grant

2008





No.

Weighted average exercise price (p)



At beginning of year

-

-



Granted during year

1,587,654

17.5



Issued in exchange for Sagentia Group AG options

971,831

45.0



At end of year

2,559,485

27.9




No options were exercised in 2008 or 2007.


Exercise of an option is subject to continued employment, and normally lapse upon leaving employment, although this period may be extended where an employee is deemed a 'good leaver'. Options were valued using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. No performance conditions were included in the fair value calculations; expected dividends were assumed to be nil; possibility of ceasing employment before vesting was assumed to be nil. The risk free rate was taken as 3.0%. Volatility is taken from data provided by Bloomberg L.P. over an appropriate time period, usually being a 100 day rolling average. Other assumptions which varied with the option issue are given in the table below. The total charge for the year under the Black-Scholes model relating to employee share based payment plans was £170,000 (2007: £83,000), all of which related to equity-settled share based payment transactions. After deferred tax the total charge was £170,000 (2007: £83,000). The fair value per option granted and the assumptions used in the calculation are as follows:


At 31 December 2008, options granted to subscribe for ordinary shares of the company are as follow:



Date of grant

Option exercise period

Number of shares under

 option








From (1)

To(2)

Approved

scheme

Unapproved

scheme

Exercise

price (pence (3)*

Fair Value of options(4)

Expected Life (years)

Volatility



Dec 2007 (5)

Dec 2007

Dec2009

-

826,986

45.0

28.8p

10

58%



Mar 2008 (5)

Mar 2008

Mar 2010

-

144,845

45.0

28.8p

10

58%



Nov 2008

Nov 2008

Nov 2011

1,483,741

103,913

17.5

9.93p

10

42%






1,483,741

1,075,744






(1) Subject to earlier exercise in certain limited circumstances. Where range of dates provided, shares under option have been granted with exercise periods which commence on different dates.

(2) Where range of dates provided, shares under options have been granted with exercise periods which expire on different dates.

(3) The exercise price is also the share price at grant date.

(4) The fair value of options has not been calculated for options granted but not expired before November 2002 in accordance with IFRS2. 

(5) Originally issued as options over Sagentia Group AG shares.


18    Other non current liabilities



Company

Group



Note

2008
£000

2007
£000

2008
£000

2007
£000

Loans from minorities to subsidiaries

20

-

-

430

430

Bank loans

20

-

-

9,000

6,813



-

-

9,430

7,243

Other creditors


-

-

90

69

Fair value of interest rate swap


-

-

489

200

Deferred income tax liabilities


-

-

2,633

2,657



-

-

12,642

10,169


Loans from minorities to subsidiaries and bank loans:

See explanation per note 20


Fair value of interest rate swap:

The interest rate swap was used to separately fix the interest rate on the original floating rate mortgage over the property at Harston Mill at 6.1%. The swap matched the original repayment schedule envisaged over 10 years from £8.0m to £2.5m. The loan balance was expected to be, and hence the amount covered by the Swap agreement is, £4.4m at the end of 2008 (2007£5.0m). 



19    Current liabilities    



Company

Group



Note

2008
£000

2007
£000

2008
£000

2007
£000

Trade and other payables - current






Payments received on account


-

-

2,439

1,345

Trade payable


23

-

1,258

821

Loans from minorities to subsidiaries


-

-

502

-

Other taxation and social security


42

-

528

613

Amounts owed to group undertakings

23

496

-

-

-

VAT


-

-

122

448

Accruals


25

-

2,077

1,664



586

-

6,926

4,891

Bank loans and overdrafts

20

1

-

113

823

Current tax liabilities


-

-

-

36



587

-

7,039

5,750



20    Borrowings



2008


2007

Group


Note

UK
£000

Foreign
£000

Total

£000

UK
£000

Foreign
£000

Total

£000

Non-current








Bank borrowings

18

9,000

-

9,000

6,813

-

6,813

Loans from minorities to  subsidiaries


18


430


-


430


430


-


430



9,430

-

9,430

7,243

-

7,243

Current








Bank borrowings

19

-

113

113

765

58

823









Total borrowings


9,430

113

9,543

8,008

58

8,066




2008


2007

Company


Note

UK
£000

Foreign
£000

Total

£000

UK
£000

Foreign
£000

Total

£000

Non-current








Bank borrowings

18

-

-

-

-

-

-

Loans from minorities to subsidiaries


18


-


-


-


-


-


-



-

-

-

-

-

-

Current








Bank borrowings

19

1

-

1

-

-

-









Total borrowings


1

-

1

-

-

-


As at 31 December 2008Group companies have granted charges over their assets to secure a five year bank loan from  March 2006 for £9.0m (2007: £9.0m) for Sagentia Holding Ltd. The loan is subject to certain banking covenants including that the amount drawn shall not exceed 85% of the value of the charged security, ie that the building has to remain valued in excess of £10.6M; and that the loan doesn't exceed 70% of consolidated net worth (of Sagentia Group AG consolidated accounts) - (ie shareholders equity for Sagentia Group AG does not fall below £12.9M). 


The annual revolving facility of £2.0m (2007 £2.0m) for Sagentia Ltdwas not renewed in 2008. Of the current bank loans and overdraftsat 31 December 2008£9,000,000 (2007£6,813,000) has been drawn down and is repayable by Sagentia Group Ltd to Lloyds TSB Bank Plc, and £113,000 (2007: £58,000) is repayable on call by Sagentia Catella AB.


Loans from minorities to venture subsidiaries are usually non interest bearing and repayable on call. They are shown in current borrowings, although they are unlikely to be able to be recalled within 12 months. 


In accordance with an agreed repayment schedule with the bank, bank loans and overdrafts are repayable to Lloyds TSB Bank plc as follows:



Company

Group



2008
£000

2007
£000

2008
£000

2007
£000






Between 1 and 2 years 

-

-

-

-

Between 2 and 5 years 

-

-

9,000

6,813

Over 5 years 

-

-

-

-







-

-

9,000

6,813


An interest rate swap has fixed approximately half of the loan at an interest rate at 6.13% plus bank charges of 1%, which is payable quarterly. The remainder is at Lloyds TSB Bank plc base rate + 0.8%.



21    Commitments

Lease commitments 

The minimum annual rentals under non-cancellable operating leases are as follows:



Company

Group


Plant and equipment lease commitments

2008
£000

2007
£000

2008
£000

2007
£000

Operating lease payments:





 -Within one year

-

-

46

20

 -Between one and five years

-

-

41

17

Property lease rentals





Operating lease payments:





Within one year

-

-

376

247

 -Between one and five years

-

-

369

117


22    Capital and other financial commitments

At 31 December 2008 the Group and the Company had commitments of £Nil (2007: £Nil). The Group had a committed un-drawn overdraft facility of £Nil at 31 December 2008 (2007: £2.2m)


At 31 December 2008the Group had a 5 year loan facility of £9.0m secured on Harston Mill, CambridgeUK, of which £9.0m (2007£6.8m) had been drawn downThis facility is repayable in March 2011 as detailed in Note 20. The Company has no loan facility at 31 December 2008 (2007: £Nil).


23    Related party transactions

The Group provides support, IT and consultancy services to its subsidiaries and made loans as follows:



Group

2008

Loans


2008

Sale of goods and services

2007

Loans

2007

Sale of goods and services


£000

£000

£000

£000

Flying Null Ltd

833

-

833

-

Sensopad Ltd

1,068

52

979

129

FD Technologies

160

-

160

-

Atranova Ltd

1,032

111

494

47

Manage5Nines Ltd

-

648

6

390

Sagentia Public Sector Ltd

-

19

-

-

Sagentia Sensors Ltd

715

300

341

116


3,808

1,130

2,813

682




Company

2008

Loans


2008

Sale of goods and services

2007

Loans

2007

Sale of goods and services


£000

£000

£000

£000

Sagentia Ltd

496

300

-

-


496

300

-

-


Disclosure is shown above only for subsidiary undertakings in Sagentia when Sagentia owns less than 90% and provide funding and / or other services. 

Key personnel are the executive directors and non executive directors of Sagentia. Remuneration to key personnel is disclosed in note 8.



24        Critical accounting estimates and judgements

Estimates and judgements are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.

24.1  Critical accounting estimates and assumptions

Sagentia makes estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting accounting estimates will, by definition, seldom equal the related actual results. The estimates and assumptions that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are discussed below.

(a) Fair value of investments

Sagentia tests regularly whether investments, deferred income or other loans have suffered any impairment, in accordance with the accounting policy stated in Note 2. The recoverable amounts have been determined based on BVCA calculations. These calculations require the use of estimates and assumptions on both the recoverability of the loans or deferred income and ability to dispose of the asset for value on an individual investment basis. 

(b) Project accounting

Sagentia undertakes a number of fixed price consultancy projects. The state of completeness of each project, and hence, revenue recognised, requires the use of estimatesThe value of work done is calculated based on proportion of time spent on the project or value of stage gates achieved as set out in the project.

(c) Other loans recognition 

Sagentia has recognised deferred income amounting to £1,200,000 (2007 £1,677,000) within Investments - loans and receivables that will become due and receivable as part of the consideration of the disposal of Sensopad Ltd to TT Electronics plc. The repayment of the loan is dependent upon TT Electronics plc achieving various target revenues which will generate a royalty payable to Sagentia

(d) Acquisition of Sagentia Group AG by Sagentia Group plc

These statements consolidate the financial statements of Sagentia Group plc and its subsidiary undertakings drawn up to 31 December each year. For the purpose of preparing the consolidated accounts the Group reorganisation is not considered to be a business combination under IFRS. Thus, the directors have treated the results and cash flows of the combined entities brought into the consolidated financial statements of Sagentia Group plc, restating comparative results, as though they had always been combined. The comparative balance sheet at 31 December 2007 is as the position of Sagentia Group AG, except that the share capital, share premium and reserve accounts have been restated to create a merger reserve, to reflect the position assuming the share for share exchange had occurred at this date.


25        Post balance sheet events 

CMR Fuel Cells plc announced in a circular to shareholders on 14 January 2009 a Tender Offer Price of 20 pence per Ordinary Share. Sagentia have tendered all their shares, which was accepted on 12 February 2009.  

 

Completion of the Tender Offer is subject to the confirmation by the Court of the proposed Capital Reduction.  Subject to the confirmation, it is anticipated that Sagentia will receive cleared funds of £447,000 by 19 March 2009. 


This information is provided by RNS
The company news service from the London Stock Exchange
 
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