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DUKE Duke Capital Limited

31.75
-0.25 (-0.78%)
19 Apr 2024 - Closed
Delayed by 15 minutes
Share Name Share Symbol Market Type Share ISIN Share Description
Duke Capital Limited LSE:DUKE London Ordinary Share GG00BYZSSY63 ORDS NPV
  Price Change % Change Share Price Bid Price Offer Price High Price Low Price Open Price Shares Traded Last Trade
  -0.25 -0.78% 31.75 31.50 32.00 32.00 31.75 32.00 363,095 08:05:12
Industry Sector Turnover Profit EPS - Basic PE Ratio Market Cap
Unit Inv Tr, Closed-end Mgmt 31.06M 19.59M 0.0472 6.73 131.9M

Duke Royalty Limited 2023 Interim Results (1645I)

01/12/2022 7:00am

UK Regulatory


Duke Capital (LSE:DUKE)
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TIDMDUKE

RNS Number : 1645I

Duke Royalty Limited

01 December 2022

1 December 2022

Duke Royalty Limited

("Duke Royalty", "Duke" or the "Company")

Interim Results for the six months ended 30 September 2022

Duke Royalty Limited (AIM: DUKE), a provider of alternative capital solutions to a diversified range of profitable and long-established businesses in Europe and abroad, is pleased to announce its interim results for the six-months ended 30 September 2022 ("Interim 2023").

Financial Highlights

-- Total cash revenue* of GBP10.4 million, up 34% from the prior period (Interim 2022: GBP7.8 million)

-- Recurring cash revenue**, also GBP10.4 million, increased 67% (Interim 2022: GBP6.3 million)

   --        Free cash flow of GBP6.6 million, up 44% (Interim 2022: GBP4.6 million) 
   --        Net profit generated of GBP10.3 million, a 66% increase (Interim 2022: GBP6.2 million) 

-- Adjusted earnings of 1.58 pence per share, a 14% increase (Interim 2022: 1.39 pence per share)

-- Cash dividends of 1.40 pence per share paid to shareholders, a 27% increase (Interim 2022: 1.10 pence per share)

Operational Highlights

   --        Raised GBP20 million of new equity capital in May 2022 
   --        Deployed over GBP6 million of capital into existing Royalty Partners 

-- The portfolio as a whole has proven resilient as trading continues to be in line with expectations during the current macroeconomic headwinds

-- During this period of inflation, the portfolio has produced five out of five maximum positive adjustments

-- Post period end, invested GBP5.5 million into new royalty partner New Path Fire & Security

   --        Currently over GBP15 million of available liquidity for future deployments 

* Total cash revenue is monthly cash distributions from Duke's royalty partners plus cash gains received from the sales of equity assets and buyout premiums

** Recurring cash revenue excludes buyout premium receipts and cash gains from equity sales (formerly termed 'normalised' revenue)

Nigel Birrell, Chairman of Duke Royalty, said:

"I am pleased to report that Duke Royalty's results for the six-month period show a continuation of increasing recurring cash revenue and higher cash flow per share metrics, which are both core KPIs for the Company. This strong underlying operating performance allowed Duke to pay two quarterly dividends of 0.70 pence each during Interim 2023, equating to an annualised dividend of 2.80 pence which represents a material increase from the 2.25 pence per share of dividends paid out in FY22. These are pleasing results given the challenging economic and political backdrop globally and the portfolio debt coverage ratio remains comfortable. With this in mind, I would like to thank the Duke team for their ongoing efforts in creating a diversified portfolio of royalty investments that have proven resilient during the current macroeconomic headwinds.

"Looking ahead, Duke is well-positioned for growth with additional liquidity ready for deployment. While we have taken a cautious approach to additional deployments in Interim 2023, we feel the current macroeconomic environment will translate to increased demand for our royalty finance solution from profitable, long-standing businesses as we compare favourably to other short term capital solutions. We look forward to expanding our portfolio over the months ahead as we execute on an exciting pipeline of new opportunities which will drive further growth in our business."

Investor Webinars

Investor Meet Company

Neil Johnson, CEO, and Hugo Evans, Finance Director, will deliver a live presentation relating to the Interim Results via the Investor Meet Company platform on Thursday 8 December 2022 at 4pm GMT.

The online presentation is open to all existing and potential shareholders.

Investors can sign up to Investor Meet Company for free and add to meet Duke Royalty via:

https://www.investormeetcompany.com/duke-royalty-limited/register-investor

Mello Monday

The Company will be presenting at MelloMonday on Monday 12 December 2022, taking place from 5pm to 9.30pm. Both Neil Johnson and Hugo Evans will be presenting and taking questions from participants.

If you would like to attend, you can register here for the event.

For further information, please visit www.dukeroyalty.com or contact:

 
                             Neil Johnson / Charlie 
                              Cannon Brookes / Hugo 
  Duke Royalty Limited        Evans                                +44 (0) 1481 730 613 
  Cenkos Securities 
   plc                       Stephen Keys / Callum 
   (Nominated Adviser         Davidson / Julian Morse 
   and Joint Broker)          / Michael Johnson                    +44 (0) 207 397 8900 
 
  Canaccord Genuity 
   (Joint Broker)            Adam James / Harry Rees               +44 (0) 207 523 8000 
  SEC Newgate (Financial     Elisabeth Cowell /                  + +44 (0) 20 3757 6880 
   Communications)            Axaule Shukanayeva           dukeroyalty@secnewgate.co.uk 
 

CHAIRMAN'S REPORT

Dear Shareholder,

I am pleased to report that Duke Royalty's results for Interim 2023 show a continuation of increasing recurring cash revenue and higher cash flow per share metrics, which are both core KPIs for the Company. These are pleasing results given the challenging economic and political backdrop globally. With this in mind, I would like to thank the Duke team for their ongoing efforts in creating a diversified portfolio of royalty investments that have proven resilient during the current macroeconomic headwinds.

I note that there has only been a short period since the Company released its full year results for the 12 months ended 31 March 2022 ("FY 2022"). However, in this short period we have witnessed two different UK Prime Ministers, an escalation in the Russia/Ukraine conflict, significantly higher interest rates and more mainstream commentary about the possible onset of a global recession. Against this undeniably bearish market backdrop, Duke has continued to selectively deploy its capital and will continue to be opportunistic at a time when other lenders are pulling back from the market, thereby providing an opportunity for Duke to expand and increase its market share.

Duke's simple investment philosophy of providing long dated, senior secured royalty investments to established and profitable SME owner-operated business will see it through these challenging times, and I am pleased to report a strong set of financial results for Interim 2023 alongside an optimistic outlook for the rest of the financial year.

Operational Review

In May 2022, Duke announced a GBP20 million equity placing from both institutional and retail investors. Net proceeds from this fundraising were used to repay the existing debt and provide additional liquidity headroom, allowing the Company both to invest further capital into its existing Royalty Partners as well into new opportunities. In that regard, Duke invested GBP6.6m into Intec and Tristone during Interim 2023, both of which are undertaking buy and build strategies in their respective sectors of I.T. managed services and specialist residential and domiciliary care. However, given the volatile macroeconomic back drop, the general feeling in the period was one of caution whilst positioning the Company to take advantage of an ever-expanding deal pipeline and market opportunity.

Based on our current deal pipeline, we expect to deliver an acceleration in deployments over the next six months, and I am pleased to note that Duke had GBP21m of liquidity available for deployment into this pipeline of new deal opportunities at 30 September 2022. In that regard, post period end the Company announced a GBP5.5 million new deployment into New Path Fire & Security, a specialist Fire and Security business, that is undertaking a buy and build strategy in the highly fragmented Fire and Security sector. I look forward to announcing further follow-on investments into New Path Fire in due course as they execute on their business plan.

In terms of the existing portfolio, a further five positive adjustment resets have been recorded in the first six months of the financial year, driven by the current high levels of inflation which have increased the average yield on the Duke portfolio to record levels. These positive resets, when taken alongside a period of high deployment in FY 2022, has allowed Duke to continue to announce record consecutive quarters of recurring cash revenue during Interim 2023, a trend we again expect to continue in the coming quarters. Clearly the current falling levels of discretionary consumer spending remain a key area of focus for the Company but in general, Duke's stated focus on investing in B2B businesses has meant that this has had less of a direct impact. To date, the Company's portfolio as a whole continues to trade robustly. In that regard, it is pleasing to note that the portfolio debt service coverage ratio remains at a level above 2x, thereby providing a good degree of insulation during these volatile times. As previously discussed in prior Chairman's Statements, as Duke deploys more capital the ongoing advantages of operational leverage will increasingly benefit shareholders and this is a trend that I look forward to reporting on in future periods.

Financial Review

The financial results for Interim 2023 reflect the resilience of Duke's business model and its ability to withstand stresses in the global financial system. I am delighted to report that the Company's cash revenue, being cash distributions from Royalty Partners and cash gains from the sale of equity investments, grew to GBP10.4 million during the Period under review, a 34% increase over the GBP7.8 million generated in Interim 2022. However, it should be noted that Interim 2022 benefited from the BHP buyout, which delivered over GBP1.5 million of premiums and realised equity gains. On a like-for-like basis, Interim 2023 produced GBP10.4 million of recurring cash revenue against GBP6.2 million in FY 2022, a 67% increase.

Free cash flow, which represents the Company's ability to pay out quarterly cash dividends to its shareholders and is defined as net operating cash inflow plus cash gains from the sale of equity investments less its interest on debt financing, grew by 27% to GBP6.6 million. This equates to 1.71 pence per share, up from GBP4.6 million and 1.36 pence per share in Interim 2022.

Total income, which includes non-cash fair value movements on the Company's investment portfolio, grew to GBP15.8 million, a 62% increase over Interim 2022. This generated total earnings after tax of GBP10.3 million and earnings per share of 2.65 pence against GBP6.2 million in Interim 2022 and earnings per share of 1.84 pence. Adjusted earnings, which strips out the fair value movements and represents a truer reflection of Duke's operating performance, rose to GBP6.2 million from GBP4.7 million, a 32% increase.

Dividend

This strong underlying operating performance allowed Duke to pay two quarterly dividends of 0.70 pence each during Interim 2023, equating to an annualised dividend of 2.80 pence which represents a material increase from the 2.25 pence per share of dividends paid out in FY22. It is pleasing to note that at the current 2.80 pence annualised rate, the dividend is well covered by free cash flow, and it is the intention of Duke to increase its dividend at a measured pace over time while at the same time reducing the Company's payout ratio, thereby allowing more cash to be reinvested into new deal opportunities.

Outlook

Duke is well-positioned for growth having created a large and diversified portfolio of royalty investments, an exciting pipeline of new opportunities and a strong liquidity position ready for deployment. Additionally, the current macroeconomic climate means that demand for our solution from profitable, long-standing businesses, is as high as ever.

As always, I am appreciative of the ongoing support of our shareholders and am pleased to report the Chairman's Statement for Interim 2023. Our existing partners have traded resiliently during the period and the Group's business model is well insulated to withstand the current economic headwinds and to grow its market share.

I look forward to reporting on the Group's ongoing progress and development in future periods.

Nigel Birrell

Chairman

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

 
                                                    Period      Year to         Period 
                                                        to                          to 
                                                 30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                                               (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                                    GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
  Cash flows from operating activities 
  Receipts from royalty investments                 10,234       14,701          6,419 
  Receipts of interest from loan 
   investments                                         173          580            450 
  Other operating income                                30          543            266 
  Operating expenses paid                          (1,061)      (2,487)          (946) 
  Payments for royalty participation 
   fees                                               (57)        (115)           (57) 
  Tax paid                                           (813)      (2,055)        (1,569) 
                                             -------------  -----------  ------------- 
  Net cash inflow from operating 
   activities                                        8,506       11,167          4,563 
 
  Cash flows from investing activities 
  Royalty investments advanced                     (6,550)     (74,586)       (23,209) 
  Royalty investments received                           -        2,938          2,938 
  Loan investments advanced                          (700)      (3,192)              - 
  Loan investments received                              -        3,949          3,370 
  Equity investments advanced                            -        (530)          (530) 
  Receipts from equity instruments                       -          300            652 
  Realised gain from sale of equity                               2,583              - 
   investments                                           - 
  Receipt of deferred consideration                      -        7,679              - 
  Investment costs paid                              (173)        (972)          (496) 
  Net cash outflow from investing 
   activities                                      (7,423)     (61,831)       (17,275) 
 
  Cash flows from financing activities 
  Proceeds from share issue                         20,000       35,000         35,000 
  Share issue costs                                (1,115)      (1,936)        (1,936) 
  Dividends paid                                   (5,282)      (7,270)        (3,270) 
  Proceeds from loans                                5,050       38,200              - 
  Loan repaid                                     (18,500)      (7,500)        (7,500) 
  Interest paid                                    (1,872)      (1,649)          (612) 
  Other finance costs paid                            (30)        (181)              - 
  Net cash (outflow) / inflow financing 
   activities                                      (1,749)       54,664         21,682 
 
  Net change in cash and cash equivalents            (666)        4,000          8,970 
                                             -------------  -----------  ------------- 
 
  Cash and cash equivalents at 
   beginning of period/year                          5,707        1,766          1,766 
  Effect of foreign exchange on 
   cash                                                 31         (59)              9 
 
  Cash and cash equivalents at 
   the end of period/year                            5,072        5,707         10,745 
                                             =============  ===========  ============= 
 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME

 
                                                    Period      Year to         Period 
                                                        to                          to 
                                                 30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                                       Note    (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                                    GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
  Income 
  Royalty investment net income           6         15,079       18,037          7,584 
  Loan investment net income              7            173          533            410 
  Equity investment net income            8            485        9,678          1,497 
  Other operating income                                30          543            266 
  Total income                                      15,767       28,791          9,757 
 
  Investment Costs 
  Transaction costs                                   (28)        (631)          (525) 
  Due diligence costs                                (455)      (1,113)             11 
  Total Investment Costs                             (483)      (1,744)          (514) 
 
  Operating Costs 
  Administration and personnel                     (1,811)      (2,060)        (1,191) 
  Legal and professional                             (232)        (405)          (183) 
  Other operating expenses                           (100)        (151)           (65) 
  Expected credit losses                                 -         (72)              - 
  Share-based payments                               (458)        (930)          (472) 
                                             -------------  -----------  ------------- 
  Total operating costs                            (2,601)      (3,618)        (1,911) 
 
  Operating profit                                  12,683       23,429          7,332 
                                             -------------  -----------  ------------- 
 
  Net foreign currency gains                           177         (60)            108 
  Finance costs                           3        (1,951)      (1,996)          (693) 
 
  Profit for the period before 
   tax                                              10,909       21,373          6,747 
                                             -------------  -----------  ------------- 
 
  Taxation expense                        4          (614)        (982)          (540) 
 
  Total comprehensive income 
   for the period                                   10,295       20,391          6,207 
                                             =============  ===========  ============= 
 
  Basic earnings per share (pence)        5           2.65         5.95           1.84 
                                             =============  ===========  ============= 
  Diluted earnings per share 
   (pence)                                5           2.65         5.95           1.84 
                                             =============  ===========  ============= 
 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

 
                                  Note      30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                                          (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                               GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
  Non-current assets 
  Goodwill                          13            203          203            203 
  Royalty finance investments        6        149,853      139,648         93,232 
  Loan investments                   7          3,872        3,172          1,000 
  Equity investments                 8         11,305       10,820          4,810 
  Trade and other receivables       10              -        2,141          2,236 
  Deferred tax asset                18            155          156            157 
                                        -------------  -----------  ------------- 
                                              165,388      156,140        101,638 
  Current assets 
  Royalty finance investments        6         22,091       20,831         13,607 
  Loan investments                   7          1,000        1,000            580 
  Equity investments                 8              -            -             60 
  Trade and other receivables       10          2,294           53          7,780 
  Cash and cash equivalents                     5,072        5,707         10,745 
  Current tax asset                               111            -              - 
                                        -------------  -----------  ------------- 
                                               30,568       27,591         32,772 
 
  Total Assets                                195,956      183,731        134,410 
                                        -------------  -----------  ------------- 
 
  Current liabilities 
  Royalty debt liabilities           9            165          160            144 
  Trade and other payables          11          1,423          423            868 
  Borrowings                        12            337          362            172 
  Current tax liability                             -           87            132 
                                                1,925        1,032          1,316 
  Non-current liabilities 
  Royalty debt liabilities           9            960          951            932 
  Trade and other payables          11          1,331        1,067            204 
  Borrowings                        12         34,363       47,740          9,659 
                                               36,654       49,758         10,795 
 
  Net Assets                                  157,377      132,941        122,299 
                                        =============  ===========  ============= 
 
  Equity 
  Shares issued                     14        172,939      153,974        153,974 
  Share based payment reserve       15          2,936        2,478          2,020 
  Warrant reserve                   15            265          265            265 
  Retained losses                   16       (18,763)     (23,776)       (33,960) 
 
  Total Equity                                157,377      132,941        122,299 
                                        =============  ===========  ============= 
 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

 
                                                          Share-based 
                                                Shares        payment    Warrant    Retained       Total 
                                      Note      issued        reserve    reserve      losses      equity 
                                                GBP000         GBP000     GBP000      GBP000      GBP000 
 
  At 1 April 2021                              120,870          1,548        265    (36,897)      85,786 
                                            ----------  -------------  ---------  ----------  ---------- 
 
  Total comprehensive income for 
   the period                                        -              -          -       6,207       6,207 
 
  Transactions with owners 
  Shares issued for cash                        35,000              -          -           -      35,000 
  Share issuance costs                         (1,936)              -          -           -     (1,936) 
  Share based payments                              40            472          -           -         512 
  Dividends                                          -              -          -     (3,270)     (3,270) 
                                            ----------  -------------  ---------  ----------  ---------- 
  Total transactions with owners                33,104            472          -     (3,270)      30,306 
 
  At 30 September 2022                         153,974          2,020        265    (33,960)     122,299 
                                            ----------  -------------  ---------  ----------  ---------- 
 
  Total comprehensive income for 
   the period                                        -              -          -      14,184      14,184 
 
  Transactions with owners 
  Share based payments                               -            458          -           -         458 
  Dividends                                          -              -          -     (4,000)     (4,000) 
                                            ----------  -------------  ---------  ----------  ---------- 
  Total transactions with owners                     -            458          -     (4,000)     (3,542) 
 
  At 31 March 2022                             153,974          2,478        265    (23,776)     132,941 
                                            ----------  -------------  ---------  ----------  ---------- 
 
 
                                                          Share-based 
                                                Shares        payment    Warrant    Retained      Total 
                                      Note      issued        reserve    reserve      losses     equity 
                                                GBP000         GBP000     GBP000      GBP000     GBP000 
 
  At 1 April 2022                              153,974          2,478        265    (23,776)    132,941 
                                            ----------  -------------  ---------  ----------  --------- 
 
  Total comprehensive income for 
   the period                                        -              -          -      10,295     10,295 
 
  Transactions with owners 
  Shares issued for cash                        20,000              -          -           -     20,000 
  Share issuance costs                         (1,115)              -          -           -    (1,115) 
  Share based payments                              80            458          -           -        538 
  Dividends                                          -              -          -     (5,282)    (5,282) 
                                            ----------  -------------  ---------  ----------  --------- 
  Total transactions with owners                18,965            458          -     (5,282)     14,141 
 
  At 30 September 2022                         172,939          2,936        265    (18,763)    157,377 
                                            ==========  =============  =========  ==========  ========= 
 

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   1.       General Information 

Duke Royalty Limited ("Duke Royalty" or the "Company") is a company limited by shares, incorporated in Guernsey under the Companies (Guernsey) Law, 2008. Its shares are traded on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange.

Throughout the period, the "Group" comprised Duke Royalty Limited and its wholly owned subsidiaries; Duke Royalty UK Limited, Capital Step Holdings Limited, Capital Step Investments Limited, Capital Step Funding Limited, Capital Step Funding 2 Limited and Duke Royalty Employee Benefit Trust.

The Group's investing policy is to invest in a diversified portfolio of royalty finance and related opportunities.

   2.       Significant accounting policies 
   2.1     Basis of preparation 

The interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements of the Group have been prepared in accordance with UK adopted international accounting standards, and applicable Guernsey law, and reflect the following policies, which have been adopted and applied consistently.

On 31 December 2020, IFRS as adopted by the European Union at that date was brought into the UK law and became UK-adopted international accounting standards, with future changes being subject to endorsement by the UK Endorsement Board. The group transitioned to UK-adopted international accounting standards in its consolidated financial statements on 1 April 2021. There was no impact or changes in accounting from the transition.

The accounting policies adopted in the preparation of the interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are consistent with those followed in the preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Group for the year ended 31 March 2022.

The Financial Statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis, except for the following:

   --           Royalty investments - measured at fair value through profit or loss 
   --           Equity investments - measured at fair value through profit or loss 
   --           Royalty participation liabilities - measured at fair value through profit or loss 

The Directors consider that the Group has adequate financial resources to enable it to continue operations for a period of no less than 12 months from the date of approval of the financial statements. Accordingly, the Directors believe that it is appropriate to continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the financial statements.

   2.2     New and amended standards adopted by the Group 

There were no new standards adopted by the Group during the reporting period.

   2.3     New standards and interpretations not yet adopted 

At the date of authorisation of these interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, certain standards and interpretations were in issue but not yet effective and have not been applied in these interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. The Directors do not expect that the adoption of these standards and interpretations will have a material impact on the interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements of the Group in future periods.

   2.4     Going concern 

In assessing the going concern basis of accounting the Directors have had regard to the guidance issued by the Financial Reporting Council. 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.

The cash flow needs of the Group have been assessed taking account the need for further funding for any of the existing royalty partners and the ongoing working capital needs of the business against the current cash and liquidity of the Group.

Furthermore, there is adequate headroom in terms of the uncalled loan facility in place should it be required.

   3.       Finance Costs 
 
                                           Period      Year to         Period 
                                               to                          to 
                                        30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                                      (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                           GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
 
  Interest payable on borrowings            1,750        1,499            409 
  Non-utilisation fees                        112          350            213 
  Deferred finance costs released 
   to P&L                                      89          147             71 
                                            1,951        1,996            693 
                                    =============  ===========  ============= 
 
   4.       Income tax 

The Company has been granted exemption from Guernsey taxation. The Company's subsidiary in the UK is subject to taxation in accordance with relevant tax legislation.

 
                                                Period      Year to         Period 
                                                    to                          to 
                                             30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                                           (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                                GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
  Current tax 
  Income tax expense                               613          980            539 
 
  Deferred tax 
  Decrease in deferred tax assets                    1            3              2 
  Decrease in deferred tax liabilities               -          (1)            (1) 
                                                     1            2              1 
 
  Income tax expense                               614          982            540 
                                         =============  ===========  ============= 
 

Factors affecting income tax expense for the period

 
                                            Period      Year to         Period 
                                                to                          to 
                                         30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                                       (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                            GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
 
  Profit on ordinary activities 
   before tax                               10,910       21,373          6,747 
 
  Tax using the Groups effective 
   tax rate of 5.63% (2022: 4.60%, 
   period to 30 September 2022: 
   8.00%)                                      614          982            540 
  Income tax expense                           614          982            540 
                                     =============  ===========  ============= 
 
   5.       Earnings per share 
 
                                                Period      Year to         Period 
                                                    to                          to 
                                             30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                                           (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                                GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
 
  Total comprehensive income 
   (GBP000)                                     10,295       20,391          6,207 
  Weighted average number of 
   Ordinary Shares in issue, excluding 
   treasury shares (000s)                      388,412      342,822        337,310 
  Basic earnings per share (pence)                2.65         5.95           1.84 
                                         =============  ===========  ============= 
 
 
                                         Period      Year to         Period 
                                             to                          to 
                                      30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                                    (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                         GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
 
  Total comprehensive income 
   (GBP000)                              10,295       20,391          6,207 
  Weighted average number of 
   Ordinary Shares, diluted for 
   warrants in issue (000s)             388,412      342,822        337,310 
  Diluted earnings per share 
   (pence)                                 2.65         5.95           1.84 
                                  =============  ===========  ============= 
 

Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing total comprehensive income for the period by the weighted average number of shares in issue throughout the period, excluding treasury shares (see Note 14). Diluted earnings per share represents the basic earnings per share adjusted for the effect of dilutive potential shares issuable on exercise of share options under the Company's share-based payment schemes, weighted for the relevant period.

All share options, warrants and Long-Term Incentive Plan awards in issue are not dilutive at the year-end as the exercise prices were above the average share price for the period. However, these could become dilutive in future periods.

Adjusted earnings per share

Adjusted earnings represent the Group's underlying performance from core activities. Adjusted earnings is the total comprehensive income adjusted for unrealised and non-core fair value movements, non-cash items and transaction-related costs, including due diligence fees, together with the tax effects thereon. Given the sensitivity of the inputs used to determine the fair value of its investments, the Group believes that adjusted earnings is a better reflection of its ongoing financial performance.

Valuation and other non-cash movements such as those outlined are not considered by management in assessing the level of profit and cash generation of the Group. Additionally, IFRS 9 requires transaction-related costs to be expensed immediately whilst the income benefit is over the life of the asset. As such, an adjusted earnings measure is used which reflects the underlying contribution from the Group's core activities during the year.

 
                                           Period      Year to         Period 
                                               to                          to 
                                        30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                                      (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                           GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
 
  Total comprehensive income 
   for the period                          10,295       20,391          6,207 
 
  Unrealised fair value movements         (5,330)     (10,431)        (2,663) 
  Expected credit losses                        -           72              - 
  Share-based payments                        458          930            472 
  Investment costs                            483        1,746            525 
  Tax effect of the adjustments 
   above at Group effective rate              247          350            134 
                                    ------------- 
  Adjusted earnings                         6,153       13,058          4,675 
                                    =============  ===========  ============= 
 
 
                                                Period      Year to         Period 
                                                    to                          to 
                                             30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                                           (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                                GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
 
  Adjusted earnings for the year 
   (GBP000)                                      6,153       13,058          4,675 
  Weighted average number of 
   Ordinary Shares in issue, excluding 
   treasury shares (000s)                      388,412      342,822        337,310 
  Adjusted earnings per share 
   (pence)                                        1.58         3.81           1.39 
                                         =============  ===========  ============= 
 
 
                                             Period      Year to         Period 
                                                 to                          to 
                                          30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                                        (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                             GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
 
  Diluted adjusted earnings for 
   the year (GBP000)                          6,153       13,058          4,675 
  Diluted weighted average number 
   of Ordinary Shares in issue, 
   excluding treasury shares (000s)         388,412      342,822        337,310 
  Diluted adjusted earnings per 
   share (pence)                               1.58         3.81           1.39 
                                      =============  ===========  ============= 
 
   6.       Royalty investments 

Royalty investments are financial assets held at FVTPL that relate to the provision of royalty capital to a diversified portfolio of companies.

 
                                    30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                                  (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                       GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
 
  Brought forward                     160,479       85,301         85,301 
  Additions                             6,550       74,586         23,209 
  Refinanced assets                         -      (2,939)        (2,938) 
  Gain on financial assets at 
   FVTPL                                4,915        3,531          1,267 
                                ------------- 
                                      171,944      160,479        106,839 
                                =============  ===========  ============= 
 

Royalty finance investments are comprised of:

 
                    30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                  (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                       GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
 
  Non-Current         149,853      139,648         93,232 
  Current              22,091       20,831         13,607 
                      171,944      160,479        106,839 
                =============  ===========  ============= 
 

Royalty investment net income on the face of the consolidated statement of comprehensive income comprises:

 
                                           Period      Year to         Period 
                                               to                          to 
                                        30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                                      (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                           GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
 
  Royalty interest                         10,234       13,987          5,705 
  Royalty premiums                              -          714            714 
  Gain on royalty assets at FVTPL           4,916        3,531          1,267 
  Loss on royalty liabilities 
   at FVTPL                                  (71)        (195)          (102) 
                                           15,079       18,037          7,584 
                                    =============  ===========  ============= 
 

All financial assets held at FVTPL are mandatorily measured as such.

The Group's royalty investment assets comprise royalty financing agreements with 13 (30 September 2021: 11, 31 March 2022: 13) investees. Under the terms of these agreements the Group advances funds in exchange for annualised royalty distributions. The distributions are adjusted based on the change in the investees' revenues, subject to a floor and a cap. The financing is secured by way of fixed and floating charges over certain of the investees' assets. The investees are provided with buyback options, exercisable at certain stages of the agreements.

   7.       Loan investments 

Loan investments are financial assets held at amortised cost which the exception of the GBP2.2 million loan issued at 0% interest. The impact of discounting is immaterial to the financial statements. The below table shows both the loans at amortised cost and fair value.

 
                               30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                             (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                  GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
 
  Brought forward                  4,172        4,950          4,950 
  Additions                          700        3,192              - 
  Buybacks                             -      (3,950)        (3,370) 
  Expected credit losses               -         (20) 
                                   4,872        4,172          1,580 
                           =============  ===========  ============= 
 

The Group's loan investments comprise secured loans advanced to two entities (30 September 2021: two, 31 March 2022: two) in connection with the Group's royalty investments.

The loans comprise fixed rate loans of GBP4,872,000 (30 September 2021: GBP1,580,000, March 2022: GBP4,172,000) which bear interest at rates of between 0% and 15%.

The loans mature as follows:

 
                              30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                            (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                 GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
 
  In less than one year           1,000        1,000            580 
  In one to two years                 -            -              - 
  In two to five years            3,872        3,172          1,000 
                                  4,872        4,172          1,580 
                          =============  ===========  ============= 
 

Loan investment net income on the face of the consolidated statement of comprehensive income comprises:

 
                         Period      Year to         Period 
                             to                          to 
                      30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                    (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                         GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
 
  Loan interest             173          533            410 
                  =============  ===========  ============= 
 

ECL Analysis

The measurement of ECLs is primarily based on the product of the instrument's probability of default ("PD"), loss given default ("LGD"), and exposure at default ("EAD"). The Group analyses a range of factors to determine the credit risk of each investment. These include, but are not limited to:

   --           liquidity and cash flows of the underlying businesses 
   --           security strength 
   --           covenant cover 
   --           balance sheet strength 

If there is a material change in these factors, the weighting of either the PD, LGD or EAD increases, thereby increasing the ECL impairment.

The disclosure below presents the gross and net carrying value of the Group' loan investments by stage:

 
                                  Gross                       Net 
                               carrying    Allowance     Carrying 
                                 amount     for ECLs       amount 
  As at 30 September 2022        GBP000       GBP000       GBP000 
 
  Stage 1                         4,872            -        4,872 
  Stage 2                             -            -            - 
  Stage 3                             -            -            - 
                                  4,872            -        4,872 
                            ===========  ===========  =========== 
 
 
                                                               Net 
                          Gross carrying    Allowance     Carrying 
                                  amount     for ECLs       amount 
  As at 31 March 2022             GBP000       GBP000       GBP000 
 
  Stage 1                          4,192         (20)        4,172 
  Stage 2                              -            -            - 
  Stage 3                              -            -            - 
                                   4,192         (20)        4,172 
                        ================  ===========  =========== 
 
 
                                                                   Net 
                              Gross carrying    Allowance     Carrying 
                                      amount     for ECLs       amount 
  As at 30 September 2022             GBP000       GBP000       GBP000 
 
  Stage 1                              1,580            -        1,580 
  Stage 2                                  -            -            - 
  Stage 3                                  -            -            - 
                                       1,580            -        1,580 
                            ================  ===========  =========== 
 

Under the ECL model introduced by IFRS 9, impairment provisions are driven by changes in credit risk of instruments, with a provision for lifetime expected credit losses recognised where the risk of default of an instrument has increased significantly since initial recognition.

The credit risk profile of the investments has not increased materially and they remain Stage 1 assets. No ECLs have been charged in the period on these assets as they are not deemed material.

The following table analyses Group's provision for ECL's by stage for the period ended 30 September 2022:

 
                                    Stage     Stage     Stage     Total 
                                        1         2         3 
                                   GBP000    GBP000    GBP000    GBP000 
 
  At 1 April 2021 and 30                -         -         -         - 
   September 2021 
  Expected credit losses 
   on loan investments in 
   year                                20         -         -        20 
  Expected credit losses 
   on other receivables 
   in year                             52         -         -        52 
  Carrying value at 31 
   March 2022 and 30 September 
   2022                                72         -         -        72 
                                 ========  ========  ========  ======== 
 
   8.       Equity investments 

Equity investments are financial assets held at FVTPL.

 
                                       30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                                     (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                          GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
 
  Brought forward                         10,820        3,495          3,495 
  Additions                                    -          530            530 
  Disposals                                    -      (2,883)          (652) 
  Gain / (loss) on equity assets 
   held at FVTPL                             485        9,678          1,497 
                                          11,305       10,820          4,870 
                                   =============  ===========  ============= 
 

The Group's equity investments comprise unlisted shares and warrants in 10 of its royalty investment companies (30 September 2021: eight, 31 March 2022: nine).

The Group also still holds two (30 September 2021: two, 31 March 2022: two) unlisted investments in mining entities from its previous investment objectives. The Board does not consider there to be any future cash flows from the remaining investments and they are fully written down to nil value.

Equity investment net income on the face of the consolidated statement of comprehensive income comprises:

 
                                               Period      Year to         Period 
                                                   to                          to 
                                            30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                                          (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                               GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
 
  Gain / (loss) on equity investments 
   at FVTPL                                       485        7,095          1,497 
  Realised gain on sale of equity                   -        2,583              - 
   investments 
                                                  485        9,678          1,497 
                                        =============  ===========  ============= 
 
   9.       Royalty debt liabilities 

Royalty debt liabilities are financial liabilities held at FVTPL.

 
                                      30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                                    (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                         GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
 
  Brought forward                         1,111        1,031          1,031 
  Payments made                            (57)        (115)           (57) 
  Loss on financial assets held 
   at FVTPL                                  71          195            102 
                                  ------------- 
                                          1,125        1,111          1,076 
                                  =============  ===========  ============= 
 

Royalty debt liabilities are comprised of:

 
                    30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                  (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                       GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
 
  Current                 165          160            144 
  Non-current             960          951            932 
                        1,125        1,111          1,076 
                =============  ===========  ============= 
 
   10.     Trade and other receivables 
 
                                       30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                                     (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                          GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
  Current 
  Prepayments and accrued income               8           53             43 
  Other receivables                        2,286            -          7,737 
                                   -------------  -----------  ------------- 
                                           2,294           53          7,780 
  Non-current 
  Other receivables                            -        2,141          2,236 
 
                                           2,294        2,194         10,016 
                                   =============  ===========  ============= 
 

The other receivable balance consists of funds due on the sale of Duke Royalty Switzerland Gmbh, incorporated to hold the riverboat assets. On 31 March 2021, Duke sold its Swiss subsidiary to Starling Fleet AG for EUR11,600,000. The deal was structured so that EUR5,000,000 was payable on or before 30 September 2021, EUR4,000,000 was due on or before 30 September 2022, with the remaining EUR2,600,000 due on or before 30 June 2023. The second instalment of EUR4,000,000 was repaid early in March 2022. The last instalment is classified as current.

Using the same methodology as laid out in note 7 for the loan investments, the deferred consideration has been subject to ECL impairment. The financial strength of the counterparty has been reviewed in conjunction with current and future outlook for river cruising, while also taking into account the charges that the Group owns over the riverboats. An ECL impairment of GBP52,000 was recognised against this asset in the year to 31 March 20022 (refer to Note 10 for classification). No further impairment was recognised in the period to 30 September 2022.

   11.     Trade and other payables 
 
                                     30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                                   (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                        GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
  Current 
  Trade payables                             8           11             10 
  Transaction costs                        279          233            125 
  Accruals and deferred income           1,136          179            733 
                                         1,423          423            868 
                                 -------------  -----------  ------------- 
  Non-current 
  Transaction costs                      1,331        1,067            204 
 
                                         2,754        1,490          1,072 
                                 -------------  -----------  ------------- 
 
   12.     Borrowings 
 
                                   30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                                 (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                      GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
  Secured loan 
  Current - accrued interest             337          362            172 
  Non-current                         34,363       47,740          9,659 
                                      34,700       48,102          9,831 
                               =============  ===========  ============= 
 

The secured loan facility has an interest rate of 7.25% over one-month UK LIBOR per annum. In January 2022, the facility term was extended and the facility size increased from GBP35,000,000 to GBP55,000,000. Of this, GBP35,000,000 comprised a revolving facility and GBP20,000,000 a term facility. The principal amount is repayable on 18 January 2027. Furthermore, the interest rate was amended to 7.25% over SONIA. The loan is secured by means of a fixed and floating charge over the assets of the Group.

The Group has adopted Interest Rate Benchmark Reform - IBOR 'phase 2' (Amendments to IFRS 9, IAS 39, IFRS 7, IFRS 4 and 16). Applying the practical expedient introduced by the amendments, when the benchmarks affecting the Group's loans are replaced, the adjustments to the contractual cash flows will be reflected as an adjustment to the effective interest rate. Therefore, the replacement of the loans' benchmark interest rate will not result in an immediate gain or loss recorded in profit or loss, which may have been required if the practical expedient was not available or adopted.

As at 30 September 2022, GBP20,250,000 was undrawn on the facility (30 September 2021: GBP25,000,000, 31 March 2022: GBP6,800,000).

At 30 September 2022, GBP387,000 (30 September 2021: GBP355,000, 31 March 2022: GBP460,000) of unamortised fees remained outstanding.

The table below set out an analysis of net debt and the movements in net debt for the period ended 30 September 2022, the prior period and the year ended 31 March 2022.

 
                                             Interest 
                                              Payable    Borrowings 
                                               GBP000        GBP000 
 
  At 1 April 2022                                 362        47,740 
 
  Cash movements 
  Loan advanced                                     -         5,050 
  Loan repaid                                       -      (18,500) 
  Deferred finance costs paid                       -             - 
  Interest paid                               (1,872)             - 
  Other finance costs paid                       (30) 
  Non-cash movements 
  Deferred finance costs released to P&L            -            73 
  Interest charged                              1,862             - 
  Other finance costs charged                      15             - 
  As at 30 September 2022                         337        34,363 
                                           ==========  ============ 
                                             Interest 
                                              Payable    Borrowings 
                                               GBP000        GBP000 
 
  At 1 April 2021                                 161        17,103 
  Cash movements 
  Loan repaid                                       -       (7,500) 
  Interest paid                                 (611)             - 
  Non-cash movements 
  Deferred finance costs released to P&L            -            56 
  Interest charged                                622             - 
  As at 30 September 2021                         172         9,659 
                                           ==========  ============ 
 
  Cash movements 
  Loan advanced                                     -        38,200 
  Deferred finance costs paid                       -         (181) 
  Interest paid                               (1,038)             - 
 
  Non-cash movements 
  Deferred finance costs released to P&L            -            62 
  Interest charged                              1,228             - 
 
  As at 31 March 2022                             362        47,740 
                                           ==========  ============ 
 
   13.     Goodwill 
 
                                     30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                                   (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                        GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
 
  Goodwill arising on business 
   combination                             203          203            203 
                                 =============  ===========  ============= 
 
   14.     Share capital 
 
                                        External    Treasury      Total 
                                          Shares      Shares     shares 
                                             No.         No.        No.     GBP000 
  Allotted, called up 
   and fully paid 
  At 31 March 2021                       247,052      10,855    257,907    120,870 
                                      ----------  ----------  ---------  --------- 
  Shares issued for cash 
   during the period                     100,000           -    100,000     35,000 
  Share issuance costs                         -           -          -    (1,936) 
  Shares issued to directors 
   and key advisers as remuneration          105           -        105         40 
  At 30 September 2021                   347,157      10,855    358,012    153,974 
                                      ----------  ----------  ---------  --------- 
  Shares issued to Employee 
   Benefit Trust during 
   the period                                  -         792        792          - 
  PSA shares vested during 
   the year                                1,457     (1,457)          -          - 
  At 31 March 2022                      348,614       10,190    358,804    153,974 
                                      ----------  ----------  ---------  --------- 
 
  Shares issued for cash 
   during the period                      57,143           -     57,143     20,000 
  Share issuance costs                         -           -          -    (1,115) 
  Shares issued to directors 
   and key advisers as remuneration          205           -        205         80 
                                      ----------  ----------  ---------  --------- 
  At 31 September 2021                   405,962      10,190    416,152    172,939 
                                      ==========  ==========  =========  ========= 
 

There is a single class of shares. There are no restrictions on the distribution of dividends and the repayment of capital with respect to externally held shares. The shares held by the Duke Royalty Employee Benefit Trust are treated as treasury shares. The rights to dividends and voting rights have been waived in respect of these shares.

   15.     Equity-settled share-based payments 

Warrant reserve

There were no movements in the warrant reserve during the period:

 
                                                 Warrants 
                                            No. (000)    GBP000 
 
  At 1 April 2021, 30 September 2021, 
   31 March 2022, and 30 September 2022         4,375       265 
                                          ===========  ======== 
 

At 30 September 2022, 4,375,000 (30 September 2021: 4,375,000, 31 March 20212 4,375,000) warrants were outstanding and exercisable at a weighted average exercise price of 46 pence (30 September 2021: 46 pence, 31 March 2022: 46 pence). The weighted average remaining contractual life of the warrants outstanding was 0.50 years (30 September 2021: 1.50 years, 31 March 2022: 1.00 years).

Share-based payment reserve

The following table shows the movements in the share-based payment reserve during the period:

 
                                       Share options      LTIP     Total 
                                              GBP000    GBP000    GBP000 
 
  At 1 April 2021 and 30 September 
   2021                                          136     1,412     1,548 
  LTIP awards                                      -       472       472 
                                     ---------------  --------  -------- 
  At 30 September 2021                           136     1,884     2,020 
 
  LTIP awards                                      -       458     458 
                                     ---------------  --------  -------- 
  At 31 March 2022                               136     2,342     2,478 
 
  LTIP awards                                      -       458       458 
                                     ---------------  --------  -------- 
  At 30 September 2022                           136     2,800     2,936 
                                     ===============  ========  ======== 
 

Share option scheme

No share options were granted during the period to 30 September 2022.

At 30 September 2022, 200,000 options (30 September 2021: 960,000, 31 March 2022: 200,000) were outstanding and exercisable at a weighted average exercise price of 50 pence (30 September 2021: 31 March 2022: 50 pence). The weighted average remaining contractual life of the options outstanding at the period end was 1.00 years (30 September 2021: 2.00 years, 31 March 2022: 1.50 years).

Long Term Incentive Plan

No performance share awards (PSAs) were granted during the period to 30 September 2022.

At 30 September 2022, 12,298,000 (30 September 2021: 11,855,000, 31 March 2022: 12,298,000) PSAs were outstanding. The weighted average remaining vesting period of these awards outstanding was 1.00 year (30 September 2021: 1.44 years, 31 March 2022: 1.50 years).

   16.     Distributable reserves 

Under Guernsey law, the Company can pay dividends provided it satisfies the solvency test prescribed by the Companies (Guernsey) Law, 2008. The solvency test considers whether the Company is able to pay its debts when they fall due, and whether the value of the Company's assets is greater than its liabilities. The Company satisfied the solvency test in respect of the dividends declared in the period.

   17.     Dividends 

The following interim dividends have been recorded in the period to 30 September 2022, 31 March 2022 and 30 September 2021:

 
                                                Dividend    Dividends 
                                                     per 
                                                   share      payable 
  Record date                Payment date    pence/share       GBP000 
 
  26 March 2021          12 April 2021              0.55        1,359 
  25 June 2021           12 July 2021               0.55        1,909 
  Dividends paid for the period ended 30 September 
   2021                                                         3,268 
                                                          =========== 
 
                                                Dividend    Dividends 
                                                     per 
                                                   share      payable 
  Record date                Payment date    pence/share       GBP000 
 
  24 September 2021      12 October 2021            0.55        1,909 
  24 December 2021       12 January 2022            0.60        2,093 
  Dividends paid for the period ended 31 March 
   2022                                                         4,702 
                                                          =========== 
 
  25 March 2022          12 April 2022              0.70        2,440 
  1 July 2022            12 July 2022               0.70        2,842 
  Dividends paid for the period ended 30 September 
   2022                                                         5,282 
                                                          =========== 
 

On 30 September 2022 the Company approved a further quarterly cash dividend of 0.70 pence per share, totalling GBP2,8420,000, which was paid on 12 October 2021.

   18.     Deferred tax 
 
                                              Total 
                                            GBP000s 
 
  1 April 2021                                  158 
  Credited / (charged) to profit & loss         (1) 
                                          --------- 
  At 30 September 2021                          157 
 
  Credited / (charged) to profit & loss         (1) 
                                          --------- 
  At 31 March 2022                              156 
 
  Charged to profit & loss                      (1) 
  At 30 September 2022                          155 
                                          ========= 
 

The deferred tax asset arises due to a temporary timing differences on the treatment of transaction costs in the UK subsidiary. This deferred tax asset is expected to reverse over a 30 year period. The utilisation of this asset is dependent on sufficient future taxable profits being generated by the UK subsidiary.

   19.     Related parties 

Directors' fees

The following fees were payable to the Directors during the period:

 
                                   Period      Year to         Period 
                                       to                          to 
                                30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                              (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                   GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
 
  Short term remuneration             734          730            463 
  Share-based payments                211          485            273 
                                      945        1,215            736 
                            =============  ===========  ============= 
 

Other related party transactions

The following amounts were paid to related parties during the period in respect of support services fees:

 
                                            Period      Year to         Period 
                                                to                          to 
                                         30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                                       (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                            GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
 
  Abingdon Capital Corporation                 205          363            175 
  Arlington Group Asset Management 
   Limited                                      43           85             43 
                                               248          448            218 
                                     =============  ===========  ============= 
 

Support Service Agreements with Abingdon Capital Corporation ("Abingdon"), a company of which Neil Johnson is a Director, and Arlington Group Asset Management Limited ("Arlington"), a company of which Charles Cannon Brookes is a Director, were signed on 16 June 2015. The services to be provided by both Abingdon and Arlington include global deal origination, vertical partner relationships, office rental and assisting the Board with the selection, execution and monitoring of royalty partners and royalty performance. Abingdon fees also includes fees relating to remuneration of staff residing in North America.

Dividends

The following dividends were paid to related parties:

 
                                 Period      Year to         Period 
                                     to                          to 
                              30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                            (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                 GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
 
  Directors (1)                     186          262            124 
  Other related parties              27           37             17 
                                    213          299            141 
                          =============  ===========  ============= 
 

(1) Includes dividends paid to Abinvest Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Abingdon Capital Corporation, and to Arlington Group Asset Management

   20.     Fair value measurements 

Fair value hierarchy

IFRS 13 requires disclosure of fair value measurements by level of the following fair value hierarchy:

Level 1 : Inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets and liabilities that the entity can readily observe.

Level 2: Inputs are inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset, either directly or indirectly.

Level 3: Inputs that are not based on observable market date (unobservable inputs).

The Group has classified its financial instruments into the three levels prescribed as follows:

 
                                       30-Sep-22    31-Mar-22      30-Sep-21 
                                     (unaudited)    (audited)    (unaudited) 
                                          GBP000       GBP000         GBP000 
 
  Financial assets 
  Financial assets at FVTPL 
  - Royalty finance investments          171,944      160,479        106,839 
  - Equity investments                    11,305       10,820          4,870 
                                         183,249      171,299        111,709 
                                   =============  ===========  ============= 
 
  Financial liabilities 
  Financial liabilities at FVTPL 
  - Royalty debt liabilities               1,125        1,111          1,076 
                                   =============  ===========  ============= 
 

The following table presents the changes in level 3 items for the periods ended 30 September 2022, 31 March 2022 and 30 September 2021:

 
                              Financial      Financial 
                                 Assets    Liabilities       Total 
                                 GBP000         GBP000      GBP000 
 
  At 31 March 2020               88,796        (1,031)      87,765 
  Additions                      23,739              -      23,739 
  Repayments                    (3,590)              -     (3,590) 
  Royalty income received         5,705              -       5,705 
  RP liability paid                   -             57          57 
  Net change in FV              (2,941)          (102)     (3,043) 
                            -----------  -------------  ---------- 
  At 30 September 2021          111,709        (1,076)     110,633 
  Additions                      51,377              -      51,377 
  Repayments                    (2,232)              -     (2,232) 
  Royalty income received      (10,453)              -    (10,453) 
  RP liability paid                   -             58          58 
  Net change in FV               21,000           (93)      20,907 
                            -----------  -------------  ---------- 
  At 31 March 2022              171,299        (1,111)     170,188 
  Additions                       6,550              -       6,550 
  Repayments                          -              -           - 
  Royalty income received      (15,079)              -    (15,079) 
  RP liability paid                   -             57          57 
  Net change in FV               20,479           (71)      20,408 
  At 30 September 2022          183,249        (1,125)     182,124 
                            ===========  =============  ========== 
 

Valuation techniques used to determine fair values

The fair value of the Group's financial instruments is determined using discounted cash flow analysis and all the resulting fair value estimates are included in level 3.

Valuation processes

The main level 3 inputs used by the Group are derived and evaluated as follows:

Annual adjustment factors for royalty investments and royalty participation liabilities

These factors are estimated based upon the underlying past and projected performance of the royalty investee companies together with general market conditions.

Discount rates for financial assets and liabilities

These are initially estimated based upon the projected internal rate of return of the royalty investment and subsequently adjusted to reflect changes in credit risk determined by the Group's Investment Committee.

Changes in level 3 fair values are analysed at the end of each reporting period and reasons for the fair value movements are documented.

Valuation inputs and relationships to fair value

The following summary outlines the quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs used in level 3 fair value measurements:

Royalty investments

The unobservable inputs are the annual adjustment factor and the discount rate. The range of annual adjustment factors used is -6.0% to 6.0% and the range of risk-adjusted discount rates is 14.7% to 17.4%.

Equity investments

Sensitivity analysis has not been performed on the Group's equity investments on the basis that they are not material to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

Royalty participation instruments

The unobservable inputs are the annual adjustment factor and the discount rate. The range of annual adjustment factors used is -6.0% to 6.0% and the range of risk-adjusted discount rates is 16.3% to 17.4%.

   21.     Events after the financial reporting date 

Dividends

On 12 October 2022, the Company paid a quarterly dividend of 0.70 pence per share.

On 26 November, Duke announced a GBP5.5 million investment into New Path Fire & Security.

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December 01, 2022 02:00 ET (07:00 GMT)

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