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PCA Palace Capital Plc

240.00
0.00 (0.00%)
19 Apr 2024 - Closed
Delayed by 15 minutes
Share Name Share Symbol Market Type Share ISIN Share Description
Palace Capital Plc LSE:PCA London Ordinary Share GB00BF5SGF06 ORD 10P
  Price Change % Change Share Price Bid Price Offer Price High Price Low Price Open Price Shares Traded Last Trade
  0.00 0.00% 240.00 236.00 240.00 240.00 235.00 240.00 11,168 16:35:01
Industry Sector Turnover Profit EPS - Basic PE Ratio Market Cap
Real Estate Agents & Mgrs 33.3M -35.7M -0.9506 -2.47 88.27M

Palace Capital PLC Final Results (8641Q)

11/06/2018 7:00am

UK Regulatory


Palace Capital (LSE:PCA)
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TIDMPCA

RNS Number : 8641Q

Palace Capital PLC

11 June 2018

Palace Capital plc

("Palace Capital" or the "Company")

The Regional Property Investment Company

ANNUAL RESULTS FOR THE YEARED 31 MARCH 2018

Palace Capital, the property investment company that focuses on commercial property outside London, is pleased to announce its annual results for the year ended 31 March 2018.

TRANSFORMATIONAL YEAR ON ALL FRONTS:

LARGEST ACQUISITION TO DATE

MOVE TO THE MAIN MARKET OF THE LONDON STOCK EXCHANGE

LARGEST CAPITAL RAISE TO DATE

REGIONAL FOCUS CONTINUES TO GENERATE INCOME AND CAPITAL GROWTH

Stanley Davis, Chairman of Palace Capital, COMMENTED:

"This financial year was a momentous period for Palace Capital. We acquired the RT Warren portfolio, our largest purchase to date. The company secured GBP70m of additional equity capital from a range of existing and new shareholders. Significantly, Palace Capital moved to the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange, reflecting the growing scale of our business.

The management team has worked diligently to produce an excellent performance; both from a financial and operational perspective. I am very pleased to report that we have made considerable progress against all of our goals and I am confident that Palace Capital will continue to generate value for shareholders in the future."

Financial highlights

-- IFRS profit before tax: increased by 6% to GBP13.3m (31 March 2017: GBP12.6m) reflecting a combination of recurring earnings, revaluation gains and profit on disposals

   --      Adjusted profit before tax: increased by 27% to GBP8.5m (31 March 2017: GBP6.7m) 
   --      Net rental income: increased by 22% to GBP14.9m (31 March 2017: GBP12.2m) 

-- Portfolio valuation at 31 March 2018*: increased by 51% to GBP276.7m (31 March 2017: GBP183.2m) reflecting +3.5% like-for-like growth in the existing portfolio and net acquisitions including the GBP68m transformational acquisition of the RT Warren Portfolio

-- IFRS Net Asset Value: increased by 67% to GBP183.3m (31 March 2017: GBP109.6m) reflecting GBP70m equity raised in the year

-- EPRA NAV per share: decreased by 6% to 415p at 31 March 2018 (31 March 2017: 443p) due to the one-off dilution from the GBP70m equity raise at 340p. From a proforma base of 389p post fundraise, EPRA NAV per share subsequently increased by 7% at 31 March 2018

   --      Basic EPS: decreased marginally to 35.9p (31 March 2017: 36.6p) 
   --      Adjusted EPS: decreased marginally to 21.2p (31 March 2017: 22.2p) 

-- Final dividend: 4.75p proposed, making a total for the year of 19.0p, a 3% increase (31 March 2017: 18.5p) and 1.1x covered by adjusted earnings

* Includes investment properties and assets held for sale.

The Group financial statements are prepared in accordance with IFRS. Alternative performance measures are not specified under IFRS but are widely used by the property sector as they highlight the underlying recurring performance of the Group's property rental business and are based on EPRA Best Practice Recommendations (BPR) reporting framework. Further details and reconciliations between EPRA measures, company adjusted measures and IFRS equivalents can be found in Notes 8 and 9 in the financial statements.

Operational highlights

   --      GBP70m new equity to fund RT Warren portfolio purchase 
   --      GBP67m new debt facilities to support acquisitions 
   --      GBP88m of acquisitions 
   --      GBP9m of disposals to recycle capital 

Main Market move completed in March 2018

-- There was strong support from investors to commence the move to the Main Market following the Placing in October 2017

   --      The management team successfully completed the transition within six months of the Placing 
   --      Will join the FTSE Small Cap Index and FTSE All Share Index on 18 June 2018. 

Neil Sinclair, chief executive of Palace Capital, COMMENTED:

"Since our re-admission to the London Stock Exchange in October 2013, Palace Capital has grown strongly and consistently. We have developed a portfolio now worth over GBP275m and generated almost 120% total return. Our results today demonstrate considerable progress. Importantly, I believe that they highlight the scope for additional value creation. Our regionally-focused, active asset management strategy is well proven. The acquisition of the Warren portfolio highlighted how Palace Capital can identify value where others might not. Our successful fund raising demonstrated that investors agree and prompted our move to the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange. We are now of a size where further value-creating opportunities present themselves regularly.

"While Palace Capital has accomplished a lot in a short period of time, there remains much more to do. I am confident that our management team will continue to drive the business forward successfully, albeit with a cautious approach, committed to the creation of value for all our shareholders."

For further information please contact:

PALACE CAPITAL PLC

Neil Sinclair, Chief Executive

Stephen Silvester, Finance Director

Tel. +44 (0)20 3301 8331

Broker

Arden Partners plc

Chris Hardie / Ciaran Walsh

Tel. +44 (0)207 614 5917

Joint Broker

Allenby Capital Limited

Nick Naylor / James Reeve

Tel. +44 (0)20 3328 5656

Investor & Public Relations

Capital Access Group

Scott Fulton

Tel: +44 (0) 203 763 3405

About Palace Capital plc (www.palacecapitalplc.com)

Palace Capital is a property investment company with a premium listing on the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange (Stock Code: PCA). The Company owns a diversified portfolio across the UK and has built a reputation for being entrepreneurial and opportunistic. Palace Capital acquires properties where it can enhance the long-term income and capital value through asset management and strategic capital development in locations outside London.

Chief Executive's Review

The results show an IFRS profit before tax of GBP13.3m and a net asset value of GBP183.3m

I am delighted to report the Company's results for the year ended 31 March 2018 which shows an IFRS profit before tax of GBP13.3m and a net asset value of GBP183.3m.

In our Portfolio & Trading update announced on 24 April 2018, I stated that these were exciting times for our Company. Our very selective stock selection, together with taking advantage of opportunistic, mainly corporate purchases, means that we have assembled a high-quality property portfolio. The growth in income from these is already being experienced in our independent valuations. Additionally, several of our properties in city centres have significant development and refurbishment potential.

We continue to focus our strategy on growing both income and capital value. We have had a terrific year and as a result of this we are proposing a final dividend of 4.75p per share payable on 31st July 2018 to those shareholders on the register as at 6th July 2018 which, if approved, takes total dividends for the year to 19p.

It is important to us that we maintain our progressive dividend policy which we first set out in our Re-Admission Document in October 2013 which stated that we would pay a dividend of 12p for the year ended 31 March 2015.

Our EPRA Net Asset Value (NAV) per share for the year ended 31 March 2017 was 443p but this was diluted to 389p by the GBP70m fundraise last October which enabled us to acquire RT Warren (Investments) Ltd (Warren) which had a portfolio of 21 commercial buildings and 65 residential properties. We deliberated on this very carefully and concluded this was the best portfolio we had seen in over two years. It is already proving to be an excellent acquisition as we are identifying plenty of opportunities to apply our brand of active asset management and grow income.

Our EPRA Net Asset Value per share at 31 March 2018 is 415p so we are already making significant progress. We believe that the acquisition of the Warren portfolio will be both earnings and NAV enhancing. We have no regrets regarding the short-term dilution as we consider it will be hugely beneficial in the medium term. Our first significant acquisition was the Sequel portfolio acquired in October 2013 when on Re-Admission our reported NAV was 218p. We have made tremendous progress notwithstanding the short-term dilution.

Following the acquisition of the Warren portfolio and the St James Complex in Newcastle, the carrying value of the Company's portfolio is now at GBP276.7m (including assets held for sale) compared to GBP183.2m the twelve months previous. This takes into account the relevant acquisitions and the disposals we have made during the financial year.

Our contracted rent roll as at 31 March 2018 was GBP17.9m per annum with a net income of GBP16.8m per annum after allowing for head rents, service charge shortfall and empty rates. We expect this to increase during the year as we use our available cash and the cash resulting from further property sales.

It is our policy that we keep gearing at a conservative level. Our bank borrowings are GBP82.4m net of cash, representing a net loan to value (LTV) of 30% (31 March 2017: GBP67.5m and 37% respectively).

The highlight of the year is that we joined the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange at the end of March 2018 and will enter the FTSE Small Cap Index and FTSE All Share Index on 18 June 2018. We believe this will increase the liquidity and make our stock more attractive to investors.

We are making excellent progress on our existing portfolio. This is due not only to investing in the right towns and cities such as Manchester, Newcastle, Leeds, York, Southampton, Brighton, Winchester, Salisbury, Northampton and Milton Keynes but also in the right places in those cities and towns. An update on our portfolio is contained in the Property Review.

However, I do need to refer to our proposed development currently known as Hudson House, Toft Green, York. I did originally mention that we were considering a joint venture partner for the development but it became increasingly clear that it would be much more in our interest to carry out the scheme ourselves. We have planning permission to erect 127 apartments, 34,000 sq ft of of offices, 5,000 sq ft of other commercial plus car parking on this 2-acre site close to York railway station. We have a first-class professional team including a highly experienced project manager and with York being voted by The Sunday Times as the Best Place to Live 2018 and as we expect a strong demand for the properties, we are excited at the prospects here. We are in the early stages of discussions with lenders to finance the construction costs having regard to the fact that the property is not charged and currently valued at GBP16.0m. Demolition is ongoing, and this will lead to a saving of GBP0.75m per annum in empty rates and running costs.

We also believe that it is in our interests to develop or refurbish our properties ourselves once we secure satisfactory planning permission. We are working closely with our advisers to achieve this objective and we will announce our progress on these as and when the situation arises. A case in point is Solaris House, Milton Keynes, a 14,500 sq ft office building which became vacant in 2016. We took the decision to carry out the refurbishment as we believed we could let it at a rent well in excess of the rent being paid on the two adjoining office buildings comprising 38,000 sq ft, let to Rockwell Automation which we own, and where a rent review is due in December of this year. We announced the letting to Monier Redland last April at a headline rental of GBP240,000 per annum which is GBP16.55 per sq ft and GBP6.00 per sq ft more than is being paid by Rockwell. This is a further example of our active asset management which is being applied right across the board, such as at Sandringham House, Harlow, where we announced a significant letting last month.

Both transactions took place after the year end, so they are not reflected in the year end property valuations.

Recycling our capital is a priority, particularly those properties that have no prospect for growth, are empty or are not core to our business. The latter is the case in respect of the houses that were acquired as part of the Warren Portfolio. Agents have been instructed to sell 60 houses and once achieved we will reinvest the funds in suitable commercial opportunities. We had planned to sell the portfolio by June 2018 and discussions are ongoing with a particular party but as we had already sold three properties at above book value we are also examining selling packages of properties over a longer period. The properties are not charged so we are under no pressure.

Government policy continues to encourage investment in the regions. At the moment buying opportunities are somewhat limited as the prices that we are being asked to pay are generally too high to provide a satisfactory return for shareholders. In my experience, part of the discipline is to know when to walk away but I am confident that with our network of contacts, particularly in the regions, we will achieve our objective of securing off-market opportunities on terms acceptable to us.

Although we are based in London, my colleagues and I regularly travel up and down the country not only to review our existing portfolio or potential new acquisitions but also to meet regional wealth managers and brokers as well as to make presentations to potential retail investors. We have done the latter for nearly three years as we make every effort to create interest in our story. We value all our shareholders both large and small.

I am very grateful for the support of our shareholders. With a management team that is second to none, I am very confident about our prospects. We have opportunistically assembled a very high-quality portfolio and it is my job to make sure that the investment community are aware of the quality of the portfolio and the potential for growth in both income and NAV.

Neil Sinclair

Chief Executive

Property Review

We have continued to grow our portfolio with GBP88m of acquisitions which included the significant corporate acquisitions of the Warren portfolio and St James Gate in Newcastle. These purchases reflect our strategy of acquiring assets in locations which we consider have sustainable rental growth prospects.

Generally, we buy properties with potential for improvement either through refurbishment or development. During the financial year, we completed three office refurbishment projects in Milton Keynes, Leeds and Manchester and we are embarking on a very exciting mixed use development in York.

We have our portfolio independently valued every six months and as at 31st March 2018 we owned property valued at GBP276.7 million, a like for like increase of 3.5% over the year and a revaluation gain of GBP5.7m for the year.

The portfolio still has many investments which we consider have yet to achieve their potential, mainly as they are let and income producing. We regularly highlight our recurring income which is reflected by a Weighted Average Unexpired Lease Term (WAULT) of 5.3 years to break. This enables us to prepare a strategy for each asset well in advance and adapt as situations evolve.

Statistics

60 commercial properties (2017: 44) comprising 1.8m sq ft (2017: 1.6m) - this excludes the residential properties from the Warren portfolio.

303 commercial tenants (2017: 165) providing a contractual rent roll of GBP17.9m p.a. (2017: GBP12.7m p.a.)

Market Commentary

Media reporting on UK economics point unreservedly towards uncertainty. However, how one views the year ahead will be dependent upon whether you are a 'glass half full' or a 'glass half empty' person. The latter view is supported by negative views on Brexit and sluggish GDP growth which puts a squeeze on consumer incomes. The former positive approach, and one which the Board hold, is that the UK has a robust labour market, is seeing rapid growth in technology and rising export demand for manufacturers which outweighs the glass half empty protagonists. Regeneration and reinvention through public and private investment is delivering results, with new spaces being created. New investment is forthcoming for UK wide infrastructure projects.

Acquisitions

The Warren portfolio, valued at GBP71.8m, completed in October 2017 and has all the hallmarks of being a portfolio of properties with long term rental and capital growth opportunities. As highlighted in our Portfolio & Trading Update announced in April 2018, this was the best portfolio we had seen for over two years.

We see significant rental growth in locations where Permitted Development has reduced available commercial space. As rental values grow, this is likely to encourage speculative development but we are well placed to benefit in the meantime. This is evident at Regency House in Winchester and Lendal/Museum Street in York. The upper parts of both properties are vacant and in need of significant refurbishment to be let. The immediate solution would be to convert to residential (Winchester already has planning permission). However, we would have to sell the flats losing potential income, and we can achieve better returns with less capital expenditure if we maintain the commercial use. This is because rental values have grown through a lack of supply.

Since purchase, we have let London Court, a vacant office building in Southampton city centre, for ten years at a headline rent of GBP150,000 per annum and renewed leases in Beaconsfield, Verwood and Banbury.

We consider ourselves strategically opportunistic. Post the year end, in Fareham, we have bought an office building and large car park adjacent to Admiral House (which we own) as we concluded that the combined ownerships are worth more than the sum of the parts.

The Warren portfolio included 65 residential properties, predominantly houses, in Hayes. All apart from two are let and income producing. However, this is not our speciality sector or our core business so we consider the returns for shareholders will be significantly increased if invested in the commercial sector. We have instructed agents to sell these holdings, apart from two which sit alongside a commercial holding. Three others were sold at 14% above book value in February 2018.

St James Gate, Newcastle - In August 2017, we acquired for GBP20m, 100% of the share capital of a company owning a significant freehold site minutes from Newcastle railway station and in an improving location.

Comprising 82,500 sq. ft. of offices and 16,500 sq. ft. of retail space, this fully let property produces GBP1.76 million per annum. We have extended the lease to Serco until June 2019 and are finalising plans to improve the ground floor reception and external landscaping. This will increase its attraction as a destination compared to new developments in the city so we either retain our existing tenants or attract others if necessary.

Sector Focus

Offices

The property market in 2017 exudes a positive tone. "Occupier demand for office space defied wavering confidence, with take-up reaching a 15 year high supported by headcount growth, business restructuring and new market entrants." (Knight Frank 2018 Regional Office Review). With almost half our portfolio in the office sector, the changing demands of occupiers is a key driver to our performance. The economic uncertainty has forced many tenants to actively consider and commit to locations that present a property and operational cost advantage. Therefore, we actively seek to refurbish vacant space to compete with the best quality space available but at rents which are slightly discounted.

The vibrancy, cohesion and relative affordability of regional cities is increasingly appealing to young professionals. Different lifestyle choices are creating a supply of regional talent that occupiers are recognising. The delivery of brand new office space has remained relatively subdued, exacerbating the shortages of modern office stock in many of the largest cities and leading to stronger prospects for rental growth. As supply tightens, we are seeing regional companies broadening their areas of search which is likely to increase the level of competition between regional centres. Economic conditions mean cost sensitivity may be a priority but occupiers increasingly accept that low cost, low quality real estate options are actually a false economy as they create expensive staff churn.

48.5% of our portfolio is in this sector and accounts for GBP8.0m p.a. in rent from 110 tenants in 32 buildings. The key assets are:

Bank House, Leeds - This multi-let office property, acquired in April 2015 for GBP10m is extremely well located, moments from the railway station. Comprising 88,000 sq ft, it is let to The Bank of England until July 2023 and Walker Morris until December 2019. We have completed the refurbishment of the vacant 1st floor and are marketing at a 30% discount to current Grade A rental levels with interest coming from companies seeking flexible terms. As at 31 March 2018 the independent valuation was GBP10.9m, a 2.1% increase over the year.

Boulton House, Manchester - A multi let office building within close proximity to Manchester Piccadilly Station and the proposed HS2 interchange was purchased for GBP10.45m in August 2016. It comprises 75,300 sq ft and at the time of purchase the average rent in the building was GBP12.50 per sq ft. We have refurbished the vacant space as well as the ground floor reception area at a cost of GBP800,000. During the year 6,400 sq ft has been let at a rental value of GBP17.50 per sq ft. Following the year end, a further 2,120 sq ft has also been let at GBP18.95 per sq ft and negotiations continue with existing tenants who have forthcoming lease renewals. As at 31st March 2018 this property was independently valued at GBP14.3m, an increase of 18% over the year.

249 Midsummer Boulevard, Milton Keynes - A multi let office building within walking distance of the railway station. Purchased in February 2016 for GBP7.2m, the property comprises 46,000 sq ft let to DHL, Crawfords and others. The average rental at the time of purchase was GBP12 per sq ft. The leases on the 2nd floor have expired and since the tenants' vacated we have taken the opportunity to refurbish this space and upgrade the ground floor reception area and common parts at a cost of GBP450,000. Milton Keynes remains one of the fastest growing cities in the UK which is reflected by steady rental growth and our quoting rental is now at GBP18.50 per sq ft. The valuation as at 31 March 2018 was GBP8.0m, an increase of 7.74% over the year.

Solaris House, Kiln Farm, Milton Keynes - Having obtained vacant possession of this property in March 2016, dilapidations were settled and re-invested in a refurbishment to the same specification of the adjacent office buildings that we own & let to Rockwell Automation. Following the end of the financial year, we have announced a letting of the entire 14,500 sq ft to Monier Redland at a headline rent of GBP16.50 per sq ft. We expect a significant increase at the forthcoming rent review of the Rockwell properties in December 2018.

Leisure / Retail

Consumer spending has slowed and reflects the tough times for retailers and leisure operators. New developments are being proposed and are attracting new leisure concepts and integrating retail to provide an 'experience'. Uncertainty around EU citizens' rights to remain post March 2019 poses challenges to the hospitality sector.

15% of our portfolio is in this sector which accounts for GBP3.4m per annum in rent from 22 tenants in 2 buildings. The key assets are:

Sol Central, Northampton - In May 2015, we acquired the company owning a prominent city centre leisure scheme for GBP20.7m. Comprising a 10 screen cinema, casino, 151 room hotel, gym and 375 space car park, this 200,000 sq ft development has not been trading at its optimum level for a number of years. The scheme requires investment to adapt to the changing demands of customers to attract new tenants and we have recently appointed new letting and managing agents. The occupational market has been widely reported as being slow so before we commit significant funds, new tenants need to be signed up. However, in the meantime repairs to the external lighting and roof costing in the region of GBP1.0m have completed utilising the surrender premium of GBP4.0m from Gala. We have instructed a specialist to run the car park which has improved the availability of spaces and increased income. As at 31 March 2018 the independent valuation was GBP18.88m, an increase of 1.34% over the year.

Broad Street Plaza, Halifax - This significant leisure scheme was acquired through a corporate purchase in March 2016 for GBP24.18m. We increased returns during the financial year as 40% of the leases benefited from rent reviews. Unfortunately, two tenants entered administration during the year which has reduced the end of year valuation by 4.6%. We have appointed new letting agents to market the vacant space and are pleased that our remaining tenants trade well which together with the opening of the Piece Hall helped to attract over one million visitors to Halifax since its opening in August 2017.

Industrial

The star industry performer in terms of overall returns during 2017 and currently the investment of choice over other sectors. The loss of land to alternate uses compounded with the need for space to support the functions of a city remains high, which is likely to lead to multi storey logistic development.

13.2% of our portfolio is in this sector which accounts for GBP2.3m per annum in rent from 44 tenants in 13 buildings. The key assets are:

Point 4 Industrial Estate, Bristol - this multi-let estate comprises 81,000 sq ft in 10 units all of which are now let. Two lettings were completed as well as a lease renewal which have set a new rental tone in excess of GBP6 per sq ft. This is an increase of 20% during the financial year. The recent valuation of GBP7.05 million was an increase of 8.46% on the year.

Black Moor Road, Verwood - Purchased as part of the Warren portfolio in October 2017, the multi let estate totals 65,000 sq ft. Two units have become vacant since purchase and require significant refurbishment. Post the year end, a lease has been renewed at a 20% increase to the passing rent and there are three further units due for rent reviews, or lease renewals, this year. The valuation of GBP6.86 million reflects an increase of 12.46% since its purchase in October 2017.

TECHNOLOGY

Online sales will continue to grow and increase its share in the UK to c 19% at the end of 2018. (CBRE Real Estate Market Outlook 2018). The shift from physical to online will have profound implications for how retailers use physical space to showcase their brand. As this evolves, it is harder to assess rental levels of high street retail units. In August 2017, the Government announced 'truck platooning' to provide relief to drivers from necessary rules regarding driver hours, so expect to see the "last mile" delivery become less strategic as vehicle technology moves towards automation.

Sales

We continue to recycle our capital where we consider that our holdings have reached their potential or they are not core assets. During the year, ten properties were sold for GBP9.0m, releasing funds from low growth assets. The key sale was the former Polestar building adjoining the Marsh Barton Industrial Estate in Exeter. Our tenant entered administration and the building required considerable capital expenditure. We had already considered that the letting in May 2016 was unlikely to be a long term solution so we had commissioned various reports on the site's long term viability. Following this process and by the time it became vacant, we had decided that the capital expenditure required was not in shareholders' interest and a sale process commenced. Travis Perkins plc acquired the site for their own occupation for GBP3.28 million in December 2017, a 10% premium to September 2017 valuation.

Managing Agents

We are delighted to have appointed Savills in January 2018 to manage a significant number of our assets as part of our rationalisation. They have replaced four different companies which will increase the level of service we can give to our tenants.

Environmental

As a landlord of second hand commercial property, our active asset management approach means that we are constantly assessing our portfolio and earmarking assets for refurbishment and renewal, utilising the latest technology and environmentally efficient products to equip our properties for 21st Century occupation.

Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES)

As of April 2018, it is unlawful for commercial and residential landlords of properties with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of less than "E" to grant new leases or renew tenant leases (except for some exemptions). Landlords will need to carry out works to improve the energy performance of their buildings to achieve the minimum standards or face civil penalties.

We have undertaken a full review of our portfolio and are delighted to say that a few minor works are required at this stage to comply with the proposed new guidelines. We have a specialist consultant advising us to ensure that none of our holdings are affected.

Richard Starr MRICS

Executive Director - Head of Property

Financial Review

Our full year dividend is up 2.7% to 19 pence per share

Financial highlights

 
                                                  2018       2017       2016 
INCOME GROWTH 
                                             ---------  ---------  --------- 
IFRS profit before tax                        GBP13.3m   GBP12.6m   GBP11.8m 
                                             ---------  ---------  --------- 
Adjusted profit before tax                     GBP8.5m    GBP6.7m    GBP5.6m 
                                             ---------  ---------  --------- 
EPRA earnings (excluding one-off surrender     GBP6.5m    GBP5.4m    GBP4.5m 
 premiums) 
                                             ---------  ---------  --------- 
Basic EPS                                        35.9p      36.6p      43.9p 
                                             ---------  ---------  --------- 
EPRA EPS                                         18.7p      21.2p      31.3p 
                                             ---------  ---------  --------- 
Adjusted EPS                                     21.2p      22.2p      18.9p 
                                             ---------  ---------  --------- 
Dividend per share                               19.0p      18.5p      16.0p 
                                             ---------  ---------  --------- 
Dividend cover                                    1.1x       1.2x       1.2x 
                                             ---------  ---------  --------- 
 
CAPITAL GROWTH 
                                             ---------  ---------  --------- 
Portfolio like for like value                    +3.5%      +4.5%      +8.0% 
                                             ---------  ---------  --------- 
Net Asset Value                              GBP183.3m  GBP109.6m  GBP106.8m 
                                             ---------  ---------  --------- 
Basic NAV per share                               400p       436p       414p 
                                             ---------  ---------  --------- 
EPRA NAV per share                                415p       443p       414p 
                                             ---------  ---------  --------- 
Accounting return                                  -2%      11.4%       8.1% 
                                             ---------  ---------  --------- 
Total shareholder return                         -1.4%       7.4%      -2.3% 
                                             ---------  ---------  --------- 
 
DEBT FINANCE 
                                             ---------  ---------  --------- 
Debt balance                                 GBP101.4m   GBP78.7m   GBP72.7m 
                                             ---------  ---------  --------- 
Average cost of debt                              3.4%       2.9%       3.1% 
                                             ---------  ---------  --------- 
Average debt maturity                           4.7yrs    4.6 yrs    3.9 yrs 
                                             ---------  ---------  --------- 
Net Loan to Value Ratio                            30%        37%        37% 
                                             ---------  ---------  --------- 
NAV gearing                                        43%        61%        61% 
                                             ---------  ---------  --------- 
 

Key performance measures

The Group's financial statements are prepared under IFRS which incorporates non-realised fair value measures and non-recurring items. Alternative Performance Measures ('APMs'), being financial measures which are not specified under IFRS are also used by Management to assess the Group's performance included in the Highlights for the year and throughout this document. These include a number of European Public Real Estate Association ('EPRA') measures, prepared in accordance with the EPRA Best Practice Recommendations (BPR) reporting framework, and company adjusted measures. Further details are given in notes 8 and 9 of the financial statements. We report a number of these measures (detailed in the glossary of terms) because Management considers them to improve the transparency and relevance of our published results as well as the comparability with other listed European real estate companies.

Overview And Headline Results

This review summarises the financial performance for the year and provides a number of key metrics illustrating that the Company continues to deliver on its objective to drive income and capital growth and generate attractive, sector-leading returns for our investors.

The year ended 31 March 2018 was a transformational year for the Group which included our largest equity raise to date of GBP70.0m in October 2017 and this supported the largest acquisition to date - the Warren portfolio valued at GBP71.8m. As a result, the shareholder base has increased to 45.8m shares. However, as the shares were issued at 340 pence per share, this had a one-off dilutionary impact on EPS and NAV per share which are covered below.

The year ended with a much anticipated move from the AIM to a Premium Listing on the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange which will attract a larger range of investors to support the continuing growth of the business. The associated one-off costs have been included in the income statement for the current year.

This year we delivered an IFRS profit before tax of GBP13.3m, which reflects a basic earnings per share of 35.9p. EPRA earnings is the industry measure of underlying profit stripping out revaluation gains, profits on disposals and one-off costs. EPRA earnings for the year ended 31 March 2018 increased by 20.3% to GBP6.5m compared to GBP5.4m last year.

Management also report an adjusted profit before tax in order to track recurring earnings and to form a basis for the progressive dividend. This totalled GBP8.5m for the year ended 31 March 2018 (2017: GBP6.7m), up 27%, however, as a result of the increased shareholder base adjusted earnings per share reduced to 21.2p from 22.2p. The Board announced in October 2017 that it would be moving to a quarterly dividend policy in 2018 and the Q3 quarterly payment was made to investors in April 2018. The proposed final dividend of 4.75p will be payable in July 2018 which ensures a total dividend for the year of 19.0p (up 2.7%), covered by adjusted earnings 1.1x.

On the capital side, net asset value has grown to GBP183.3m up 67% from the previous year-end of GBP109.6m and this translates into EPRA net asset value per share of 415p, down 6% from 443p having regard to the dilution. This 28p decrease, together with the total dividends of 19p paid during the year, overall represents a -2% total accounting return.

Recurring Earnings

Rental income totalled GBP16.7m in the year ended 31 March 2018 (2017: GBP14.3m) driven by the improving portfolio, with fully annualised income from the acquisitions in the prior year and also benefiting from the acquisition of the Warren portfolio and the office and retail buildings in Newcastle during the year. Net rental income similarly was up to GBP14.9m (2017: GBP12.2m) and this included GBP0.6m of non-recoverable costs in the current year from properties held for development which should reduce as projects progress.

Administrative expenses increased to GBP4.2m (2017: GBP2.9m). This included GBP0.7m one-off exceptional costs incurred as a result of moving from the AIM to the Main Market. The team, including the Board, totalled fourteen at the balance sheet date, up from eleven the prior year.

Finance costs increased to GBP3.4m from GBP3.0m as a result of increasing the debt book to support the larger asset base and GBP0.1m termination costs as a result of refinancing during the year. Despite increasing the base costs of the business, adjusted profit before tax grew 27% to GBP8.5m from GBP6.7m reflecting the increasing profitability of the business as a result of both scale and income-enhancing acquisitions.

Looking forward, the business is now capable of scalability, with the team and systems in place to support significant growth in the portfolio. The Group has a gross rent roll of GBP17.9m per annum as at 31 March 2018 and this is set to increase further once surplus funds are deployed.

Valuation Gains & Profits On Disposal

The movement in the values of our investment properties can make a significant impact on profit before tax and is determined by independent valuers' assessment of what a willing purchaser would pay for the property on the basis of an arms' length transaction. We have been extremely pleased with how our properties have performed as a result of our regional strategy. This year GBP5.7m of gains were achieved, with property values on a like for like basis up 3.5%.

In addition, we have continued to recycle capital out of vacant properties with limited growth prospects into income generating properties core to the business strategy. Ten properties were sold in the year for a total consideration of GBP9.0m, resulting in profits on disposal of GBP0.3m. The combination of revaluation gains and profits on disposal have a significant impact on the underlying value of the business, reflecting 13p uplift in net asset value per share. One of the key advantages of the Company's relatively small size compared to its peer group is its ability to 'shift the dial' and grow the underlying value of the business on a per share basis.

The combination of careful stock selection, buying at the right price and the impact of our asset management and capex initiatives, particularly at our strategic properties such as Hudson House, York, where we have commenced demolition as a result of obtaining planning consent to redevelop the property, are having a significant income and capital impact on the business.

Debt

 
                                                          Years to 
                  Fixed  Floating  Undrawn  Total Drawn   maturity 
                   GBPm      GBPm     GBPm         GBPm       GBPm 
----------------  -----  --------  -------  -----------  --------- 
Barclays           35.8       4.2    (4.2)         35.8        4.8 
----------------  -----  --------  -------  -----------  --------- 
NatWest               0      30.4     (10)         20.4        2.9 
----------------  -----  --------  -------  -----------  --------- 
Santander            20       6.8        0         26.8        4.3 
----------------  -----  --------  -------  -----------  --------- 
Lloyds                0       3.8        0          3.8        1.1 
----------------  -----  --------  -------  -----------  --------- 
Scottish Widows    14.6         0        0         14.6        8.3 
----------------  -----  --------  -------  -----------  --------- 
                   70.4      45.2   (14.2)        101.4        4.7 
----------------  -----  --------  -------  -----------  --------- 
 

EPS

Basic earnings per share (EPS) was 35.9p compared to 36.6p last year. We also report on EPRA earnings per share, which removes unrealised capital profits and one-off items such as profits on disposal and costs on acquisition. This reduced to 18.7p from 21.2p last year. Finally, we also report an adjusted earnings per share to provide a basis for dividend cover and this was 21.2p for the year down marginally from 22.2p.

Dividends

The Board is recommending a final quarterly dividend of 4.75p per share to be paid on 31 July 2018 to shareholders registered at the close of business on 6 July 2018. Taken with the total interim dividends of 14.25p, our full year dividend will be up 2.7% to 19.0p. The Company is very well placed to provide our shareholders with an increased dividend payment due to the growth in the portfolio and the core assets producing sustainable, long-term income. However, we continue to reinvest surplus funds into our strategic assets to provide investors with a two-pronged return through both income and capital growth.

Net Assets

At 31 March 2018, our net assets were GBP183.3m, equating to basic net asset per share of 400p a decrease of 36p since 31 March 2017. The increase in our net assets was driven largely by the GBP70.0m equity raise and the increased value of our investment properties, profits on disposal of investment properties and surplus profits after dividends paid. We calculate an EPRA NAV consistent with standard practice in the property industry to adjust for any dilution of outstanding share options and fair value adjustments of financial instruments and deferred tax which we believe better reflects the underlying net assets attributable to shareholders. Our EPRA NAV was 415p at 31 March 2018, down from 443p at 31 March 2017, however up 7% from 389p pro-forma post the fundraise.

Debt Financing

During the year our debt profile improved as we refinanced two facilities and repaid one other. In August 2017, we refinanced the GBP15.6m Santander facility to incorporate a charge over the St James' Gate, Newcastle acquisition and extended the facility to GBP27.0m for a further five years at a margin of 2.5% over three month LIBOR.

The Barclays facility of GBP14.5m inherited as part of the Warren acquisition in October 2017 was subsequently refinanced in January 2018 along with the remaining GBP12.7m Nationwide facility and replaced with a new GBP40.0m 5 year facility with Barclays at a margin of 1.95% over three month LIBOR.

As is the normal course of business for a property company, the Group evaluates its debt position and exposure to interest rate rises on an ongoing basis. Earlier this year there was a growing belief in the market that the Bank of England could raise interest rates later this year. The Board took the decision to enter into hedging facilities with both Barclays and Santander in order to lock-in fixed rates across the majority of its debt. As a result, the average cost of debt has increased in the short-term to 3.4% and the fixed position of the Group's total debt facilities totals 70% of drawn facilities as at 31 March 2018.

The Group debt facilities total GBP115.5m, with GBP101.4m drawn at the year-end. Our lenders include the majority of the UK clearing banks and the Group's all in average cost of debt is 3.4%. The average debt maturity is 4.7 years which gives us security over income streams net of interest costs for a number of years before the need to refinance.

Net Debt And Gearing

Each debt facility is secured at an SPV level and we assess the gearing mainly through interest cover ratios (ICR) and loan to value ratios (LTV). In normal market conditions we gear our assets within a range of 40-60% LTV. At a group level we measure both the debt to net asset value ratio (NAV gearing) and loan to value net of cash. NAV gearing at 31 March 2018 was 43% and the net LTV ratio was 30% at 31 March 2018 down from 37% at the last financial year-end. The Group remains conservatively geared and at year-end had GBP19.0m of cash and GBP14.2m of unutilised facilities available, along with over GBP40.0m of properties uncharged.

Taxation

The Group has a tax charge of GBP0.8m for the year ended 31 March 2018. This includes a corporation tax charge of GBP1.1m to reflect the tax payable on profit in the year and a deferred tax reduction of GBP0.3m to reflect capital allowances claimed in excess of depreciation and losses utilised in the year. The effective tax rate for the year for tax payable on IFRS profit remains low at 5.8% due largely to utilisation of brought forward losses, capital allowances and non-realisation of property revaluation gains.

Outlook

From a financial point of view, the Company has had a transformational year, growing the capital base through the GBP70.0m equity raise in October 2017 and entering into new debt facilities totalling GBP67.0m. This helped fund the two acquisitions in the year totalling GBP88m and increases the future capacity of the Group to make further acquisitions. These will help generate additional income and capital profits as we continue to pay out an attractive dividend yield in line with our progressive dividend policy and manage our assets in order to maximise total returns for our investors. In addition, we have commenced demolition of Hudson House, York in order to prepare the site for the planned development which will eliminate GBP0.75m of non-recoverable holding costs per annum.

"We are well positioned to continue to grow the business on the basis of both income and capital growth, rewarding our shareholders with sector-leading returns."

Stephen Silvester ACA

Finance Director

Financial risk management

The Group is exposed to market risk (including interest rate risk and real estate market risk), credit risk and liquidity risk. The Group's senior management oversee the management of these risks, and the Board of Directors has overall responsibility for the determination of the Group's risk management objectives and policies and it sets policies that seek to reduce risk as far as possible without unduly affecting the Group's competitiveness and flexibility. Further details regarding these policies are set out in note 26.

The Board continually assesses the key risks to the business to ensure exposure is mitigated and provide greater security to investors on the future income and capital return.

Responsibilities of the Risk committee

The Executive Team is responsible for risk management on a day-to-day basis. The current principal risks facing the Company are described in the table below.

 
Risk            Mitigation                                                    Progress 2017/18                                              Rating 
Development                                                                                                                                 Medium 
Over exposure     *    Core portfolio generates sustainable cash flows.          *    The Group's Capital Risk Management Policy limits     Risk 
to development                                                                        development expenditure to                            Rating 
could put                                                                                                                                   High 
pressure          *    Conservative gearing used to take advantage of the                                                                   Risk 
on cash flow           gap between property yields and cost of borrowing.        *    Limited capital expenditure during the current year   Impact 
and debt                                                                              across a range of properties totalling GBP2.7m. 
finance. 
                  *    Clear strategy on each property to create and deliver 
                       value.                                                    *    Planning approval granted at Hudson House, York in 
                                                                                      August 2017 to build 127 apartments, 5,000 sq ft of 
                                                                                      commercial space and 34,000 sq ft Grade A offices. 
                  *    All developments require Board approval based on               Demolition commenced in February 2018. 
                       merits of strategy for assets. 
 
                                                                                 *    Hudson House Development planned to commence in 2019 
                  *    Developments are modelled and financed appropriately           which will include commitment to a full design and 
                       to minimise risk and maximise return.                          build contract. 
                ------------------------------------------------------------  ------------------------------------------------------------  ------ 
Financing &                                                                                                                                 Low 
Cash               *    The Group actively engages in close relationships       *    The Group's average debt maturity of debt has          Risk 
flow                    with its key lenders, ensuring transparency when it          improved to 4.7years providing longevity and           Rating 
Breach of debt          comes to monitoring the properties secured by debt.          financial support to maintain the current portfolio    High 
covenants                                                                                                                                   Risk 
could                                                                                                                                       Impact 
trigger loan       *    Assets are purchased that generate surplus cash and     *    The Group's net LTV is conservative at 30% and ICR 
defaults and            significant headroom on ICR & LTV Loan Covenants.            over 4.5 times. 
repayment of 
facilities 
putting            *    Gearing is maintained at a conservative level and       *    70% of drawn debt at year-end is fixed, limiting the 
pressure on             hedging utilised to reduce exposure to interest rate         Group's exposure to increases in Bank of England base 
surplus                 volatility.                                                  rate & LIBOR. 
cash 
resources. 
Bank of 
England 
monetary 
policy 
may result in 
interest rate 
rises and 
increased 
cost of 
borrowing. 
Financial 
regulatory 
changes under 
Basel III may 
increase the 
cost to 
borrowers. 
                ------------------------------------------------------------  ------------------------------------------------------------  ------ 
Tenant                                                                                                                                      Low 
Exposure to       *    Our strategy to invest across different sectors          *    Total number of leases across portfolio: 303 making    Risk 
tenant                 reduces our exposure to an individual sector or               up contractual rent roll of GBP17.9m                   Rating 
administration         tenant.                                                                                                              Low 
and poor                                                                                                                                    Risk 
tenant                                                                          *    Loss of income from tenant administrations and CVAs    Impact 
covenants         *    We maintain close relationships with our tenants and          in the year totalled GBP0.1m, which is c1% of 
could                  support them throughout their business cycle.                 portfolio contractual income 
result in 
lower 
income.           *    Management meet with managing agents to review rent      *    Portfolio weighted average lease length is 5.3 years 
                       collection and arrears on a regular basis.                    providing reasonable longevity of income 
 
 
                  *    We actively manage our properties to improve security    *    Occupancy across the portfolio has decreased slightly 
                       of income and limit exposure to voids.                        to 90% - reassuringly at the Group's target of 90% 
 
 
                  *    Tenant diversification is high with no tenant making 
                       up more than 7% of total rental income. 
                ------------------------------------------------------------  ------------------------------------------------------------  ------ 
Economic and                                                                                                                                High 
Political         *    Monitoring of economic and property industry research    *    Russian politics continue to destabilise the region,   Risk 
Uncertainty            by executive team and review at Board Meetings.               along with the risk of a U.S. trade war with its       Rating 
from Brexit                                                                          trade partners. Despite this, they appear to have      High 
and                                                                                  little impact on the day to day activities of our      Risk 
world events      *    Use of consultants and experts when considering               tenants and their businesses.                          Impact 
could impact           planning and development work. 
our tenants 
and                                                                             *    Progress towards an orderly Brexit is reducing the 
the               *    Review tenant profile and sector diversification.             risk of a cliff-edge for the UK economy and improving 
profitability                                                                        forecast conditions for the UK economy. 
of their 
businesses.       *    Member of various Bodies including British Property 
Decisions made         Federation (BPF) in order to monitor the impact of       *    Government support for regional development 
by Government          all relevant current issues.                                  initiatives bodes well for the markets in which we 
and Local                                                                            operate. 
Councils 
can have a 
significant 
impact on our 
ability to 
extract 
value from our 
properties. 
                ------------------------------------------------------------  ------------------------------------------------------------  ------ 
Accounting,                                                                                                                                 Low 
tax,              *    Key advisors including Auditors, Solicitors and          *    This being the first year for the Group on the Main    Risk 
legal                  Brokers are engaged on key regulatory, accounting and         Market means a greater level of scrutiny required by   Rating 
and regulatory         tax issues.                                                   the Board covering corporate governance and            Low 
Non-compliance                                                                       requirements for reporting to the Financial Reporting  Risk 
as a result of                                                                       Council (FRC).                                         Impact 
changes to        *    Engagement with BPF on regulatory changes that impact 
accounting             the real estate industry. 
standards,                                                                      *    Business forecasts and strategy allows for changes to 
regulatory                                                                           corporation tax rates and interest deductibility 
requirements                                                                         rules. 
for a public 
real estate 
company                                                                         *    Legislation has now been passed and the rules took 
and incorrect                                                                        effect from 1 April 2017 for corporate interest 
application of                                                                       restriction. 
new tax rules. 
 
                                                                                *    Due to the Group interest payable in the year 
                                                                                     totalling above the de minimis it has elected for 
                                                                                     public infrastructure exemption. 
                ------------------------------------------------------------  ------------------------------------------------------------  ------ 
Operational                                                                                                                                 Low 
Business          *    Insurance cover for loss of rent up to three years.      *    Board review of Financial Position and Prospects       Risk 
disruption.                                                                          Procedures carried out in February 2018 as part of     Rating 
Without                                                                              move to the Main Market ensuring plans in place to     Low 
adequate          *    Tight-knit team with systems in place to ensure               deal with disruption risk.                             Risk 
systems and            Executive Team have shared responsibility across all                                                                 Impact 
controls,              major decisions. 
our exposure                                                                    *    Recruitment in the year brings the number of team 
to operational                                                                       members up to fourteen at year end and provides cover 
risk and          *    General policy of retaining incumbent managing agents         across the team reducing exposure should any of the 
business               on new property acquisitions to avoid awkward                 key personnel be unavailable. 
disruption is          transitions and potential loss of income. 
increased. 
                                                                                *    Key man insurance cover in place for Executive 
                  *    Segregation of duties applied to payments processing          Directors 
                       and bank authorisations. 
 
                                                                                *    Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) assessments 
                                                                                     carried out on all assets at acquisition to ensure 
                                                                                     all assets are in required condition for letting 
                                                                                     within the new EPC rules. 
                ------------------------------------------------------------  ------------------------------------------------------------  ------ 
 

Viability Statement

In accordance with provision C.2.2 of the UK Corporate Governance Code, the Directors have assessed the prospects of the Group and future viability over a three-year period, being longer than the 12 months required by the 'Going Concern' provision. The Board conducted this review taking account of the Group's long-term strategy, principal risks and risk appetite, current position, asset performance and future plans.

Assessment Of Review Period

The viability review was conducted over a three-year period of assessment, which the Board considered appropriate for the following reasons:

-- The Group's working capital model and detailed budgets and cashflows consist of a rolling three-year forecast

-- It reflects the short cycle nature of the Group's developments and asset management initiatives

-- Office refurbishments completed to date have taken less than 12 months and the major redevelopment planned at Hudson House in York is due to take 22 months from commencement to practical completion

   --      The Group's weighted average debt maturity at 31 March 2018 was 4.7 years 

Three years is considered to be the optimum balance between long term property investment and the inability to accurately forecast ahead given the cyclical nature of property investment.

Assessment of Prospects

The Group's working capital model consists of a base case scenario which only includes deals under offer and also a reasonable case which factors in acquisition and disposal assumptions.

The working capital model includes budgeted profit and cash flows and also considers capital commitments, dividend cover, loan to value, earnings per share and net asset value per share metrics. These are updated at least quarterly against actual performance.

The Executive Committee provides regular strategic input to the financial forecasts covering investment, divestment and development plans, capital allocation and hedging. Executive Directors and senior managers receive regular presentations from external advisors on the macroeconomic outlook which assist with the development of strategy and forecasts. Forecasts are updated at least quarterly, reviewed against actual performance and reported to the Board.

Assessment of viability

A sensitivity analysis was carried out as part of the Prospectus in February 2018 in preparation for moving to the Main Market, which involved flexing a number of key assumptions to consider the impact of changes to the Group's principal risks affecting the viability of the business, being:

   --      Changes to macro-economic conditions impacting rental income levels and property values 
   --      Availability of funds for capex and investment 
   --      Changes to interest rates 

The debt covenants were stress tested to validate resilience to property valuation and rental income decline, as well as increases in future libor and swap rates. It assessed the limits at which key financial covenants and ratios would be breached. The Property values would need to fall by approximately 30% on average to breach the loan to value covenant thresholds under the existing debt facilities. The interest cover across the Group was also sufficient that net income would need to fall by half or interest costs double to breach a 250% interest cover ratio.

The Directors have also taken into account the strong financial position at 31 March 2018, significant cash and available facilities, low LTV, uncharged properties and the Group's ability to raise new finance.

Conclusion

Based on the results of their review, the Directors have a reasonable expectation that the Company will be able to continue in operation and meet its liabilities as they fall due over the three year period of their assessment.

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income

For the year ended 31 March 2018

 
                                                         2018      2017 
                                               Note   GBP'000   GBP'000 
---------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Rental and other income                           1    16,733    14,266 
---------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Property operating expenses                      5b   (1,824)   (2,055) 
---------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Net property income                                    14,909    12,211 
---------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
 
Administrative expenses                          5c   (4,185)   (2,915) 
---------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Operating profit before gains and losses 
 on property assets and cost of acquisitions           10,724     9,296 
---------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
 
Profit on disposal of investment properties               274     3,191 
---------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Gains on revaluation of investment property 
 portfolios                                      11     5,738     3,101 
---------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
 
Operating profit                                       16,736    15,588 
---------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Finance income                                    3        10         3 
---------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Finance expense                                   4   (3,442)   (3,014) 
---------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Profit before taxation                                 13,304    12,577 
---------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
 
Taxation                                          7     (773)   (3,191) 
---------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Profit after taxation for the year and total 
 comprehensive income attributable to owners 
 of the parent                                         12,531     9,386 
---------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
 
EARNINGS PER ORDINARY SHARE 
---------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Basic                                             8     35.9p     36.6p 
---------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Diluted                                                 35.8p     36.5p 
---------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
 

All activities derive from continuing operations of the Group. The Notes form an integral part of these financial statements.

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position

As at 31 March 2018

 
                                                   2018      2017 
                                         Note   GBP'000   GBP'000 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Non-current assets 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Investment properties                      11   253,863   183,916 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Property, plant and equipment              12       121        43 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
                                                253,984   183,959 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Current assets 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Assets held for sale                       11    21,708         - 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Trade and other receivables                13     5,551     2,511 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Cash at bank and in hand                   14    19,033    11,181 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
                                                 46,292    13,692 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Total assets                                    300,276   197,651 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Current liabilities 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Trade and other payables                   15   (8,834)   (6,161) 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Borrowings                                 17   (2,686)   (2,036) 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Creditors: amounts falling due within 
 one year                                      (11,520)   (8,197) 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Net current assets                               34,772     5,495 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Non-current liabilities 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Borrowings                                 17  (97,157)  (75,758) 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Deferred tax liability                      7   (6,531)   (2,187) 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Obligations under finance leases           20   (1,588)   (1,950) 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Derivative Financial Instruments           16     (181)         - 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Net assets                                      183,299   109,559 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Equity 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Called up share capital                    21     4,639     2,580 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Share premium account                           125,036    59,444 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Treasury shares                                 (2,011)   (2,250) 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Merger reserve                                    3,503     3,503 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Capital redemption reserve                          340       340 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Retained earnings                                51,792    45,942 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Equity - attributable to the owners of 
 the parent                                     183,299   109,559 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Basic NAV per ordinary share                9      400p      436p 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Diluted NAV per ordinary share                     400p      434p 
---------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
 

These financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors and authorised for issue on 8 June 2018 and are signed on its behalf by:

   Stephen Silvester                               Neil Sinclair 
   Finance Director                                  Chief Executive 

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity

For the year ended 31 March 2018

 
                                                    Treasury 
                                   Share     Share     Share      Other   Retained     Total 
                                 Capital   Premium   Reserve   Reserves   Earnings    Equity 
                         Notes   GBP'000   GBP'000   GBP'000    GBP'000    GBP'000   GBP'000 
-----------------------  -----  --------  --------  --------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
At 31 March 2016                   2,862    59,408         -      3,568     40,977   106,815 
-----------------------  -----  --------  --------  --------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
 
Total comprehensive 
 income for the year                   -         -         -          -      9,386     9,386 
-----------------------  -----  --------  --------  --------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
Transactions with 
 Equity Holders 
-----------------------  -----  --------  --------  --------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
Redemption of shares                   -         -   (2,357)          -          -   (2,357) 
-----------------------  -----  --------  --------  --------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
Gross proceeds of 
 issue from new shares      21         2        36       107          -          -       145 
-----------------------  -----  --------  --------  --------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
Redemption of deferred 
 shares                            (284)         -         -        275          -       (9) 
-----------------------  -----  --------  --------  --------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
Share-based payments        22         -         -         -          -        237       237 
-----------------------  -----  --------  --------  --------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
Exercise of share 
 options                    21         -         -         -          -       (41)      (41) 
-----------------------  -----  --------  --------  --------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
Dividends paid              10         -         -         -          -    (4,617)   (4,617) 
-----------------------  -----  --------  --------  --------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
At 31 March 2017                   2,580    59,444   (2,250)      3,843     45,942   109,559 
-----------------------  -----  --------  --------  --------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
 
Total comprehensive 
 income for the year                   -         -         -          -     12,531    12,531 
-----------------------  -----  --------  --------  --------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
Transactions with 
 Equity Holders 
-----------------------  -----  --------  --------  --------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
Gross proceeds of 
 issue from new shares      21     2,059    67,941         -          -          -    70,000 
-----------------------  -----  --------  --------  --------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
Costs of issue of 
 new shares                 21         -   (2,349)         -          -          -   (2,349) 
-----------------------  -----  --------  --------  --------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
Share based payments        22         -         -         -          -        174       174 
-----------------------  -----  --------  --------  --------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
Exercise of share 
 options                    21         -         -       239          -      (239)         - 
-----------------------  -----  --------  --------  --------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
Issue of deferred 
 bonus share options        21         -         -         -          -        128       128 
-----------------------  -----  --------  --------  --------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
Dividends paid              10         -         -         -          -    (6,744)   (6,744) 
-----------------------  -----  --------  --------  --------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
At 31 March 2018                   4,639   125,036   (2,011)      3,843     51,792   183,299 
-----------------------  -----  --------  --------  --------  ---------  ---------  -------- 
 

For the purpose of preparing the consolidated financial statement of the Group, the share capital represents the nominal value of the issued share capital of Palace Capital plc.

Share premium represents the excess over nominal value of the fair value consideration received for equity shares net of expenses of the share issue.

Treasury shares represents the consideration paid for shares bought back from the market.

Other reserves comprises the merger reserve and the capital redemption reserve.

The merger reserve represents the excess over nominal value of the fair value consideration for the acquisition of subsidiaries satisfied by the issue of shares in accordance with S612 of the Companies Act 2006.

The capital redemption reserve represents the nominal value of cancelled preference share capital redeemed.

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

For the year ended 31 March 2018

 
                                                            2018      2017 
                                                  Note   GBP'000   GBP'000 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Operating activities 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Net cash generated in operations                     2     9,899    10,294 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Interest received                                             10         - 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Interest and other finance charges paid                  (2,714)   (2,516) 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Corporation tax paid in respect of operating 
 activities                                                (395)   (1,047) 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Net cash flows from operating activities                   6,800     6,731 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
 
Investing activities 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Purchase of investment property and acquisition 
 costs capitalised                                  11  (72,808)  (10,950) 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Capital expenditure on refurbishment 
 of investment property                             11   (2,754)   (4,579) 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Proceeds from disposal of investment 
 property                                                  8,765    12,447 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Amounts transferred into restricted cash 
 deposits                                                  (805)     (244) 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Purchase of property, plant and equipment           12     (123)      (26) 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Net cash flow (used in)/from investing 
 activities                                             (67,725)   (3,352) 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
 
Financing activities 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Bank loans repaid                                       (45,242)  (19,346) 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Proceeds from new bank loans                              53,393    25,813 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Loan issue costs paid                                    (1,085)     (606) 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Proceeds from issue of Ordinary Share 
 capital                                                  70,000        29 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Costs from issue of Ordinary Share capital               (2,349)         - 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Dividends paid                                      10   (6,744)   (4,617) 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Purchase of treasury shares                                    -   (2,250) 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Payment of share options exercised                             -      (41) 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Net cash flow from financing activities                   67,973   (1,018) 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
 
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents                  7,048     2,361 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning 
 of the year                                              10,937     8,576 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
Cash and cash equivalents at the end 
 of the year                                        14    17,985    10,937 
------------------------------------------------  ----  --------  -------- 
 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

BASIS OF ACCOUNTING

The consolidated financial information comprises the results of Palace Capital plc ("the Company") and its subsidiary undertakings.

The Company is quoted on the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange and is domiciled and registered in England and Wales and incorporated under the Companies Act 1985. The address of its registered office is Lower Ground Floor, One George Yard, London, United Kingdom, EC3V 9DF.

The nature of the Company's operations and its principal activities are set out in the Strategic Report.

BASIS OF PREPARATION

The financial information contained in this announcement has been prepared on the basis of the accounting policies set out in the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2018. Whilst the financial information included in this announcement has been computed in accordance with IFRS, as adopted by the European Union, this announcement does not itself contain sufficient information to comply with IFRS. The financial information does not constitute the Group's financial statements for the years ended 31 March 2018 or 31 March 2017, but is derived from those financial statements. Those accounts give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and results of the Group. Financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2017 have been delivered to the Registrar of Companies and those for the year ended 31 March 2018 will be delivered following the Company's Annual General Meeting. The auditors' reports on both the 31 March 2018 and 31 March 2017 financial statements were unqualified; did not draw attention to any matters by way of emphasis; and did not contain statements under section 498 (2) or (3) of the Companies Act 2006.

The consolidated financial information for the year ended 31 March 2018 has been prepared on a historical cost basis, except for investment properties and derivatives which have been measured at fair value. The consolidated financial information is presented in pounds sterling ("GBP") which is also the Company and the Group's functional currency.

The accounting policies applied are consistent with those used in the Group's financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2017.

1. SEGMENTAL REPORTING

For the purpose of IFRS 8, the chief operating decision maker ("CODM") takes the form of the three executive Directors

(the Group's Executive Committee). The Group's Executive Committee are of the opinion that the business of the Group

is as follows.

The principal activity of the Group is to invest in commercial real estate in the UK.

IFRS 8 Operating Segments requires operating segments to be identified on the basis of internal financial reports about components of the Group that are regularly reviewed by the CODM.

The internal financial reports received by the Group's Executive Committee contain financial information at a Group level as a whole and there are no reconciling items between the results contained in these reports and the amounts reported in the financial statements. Additionally, information is provided to the Group's Executive Committee showing gross property income and property valuation by individual property. Therefore, for the purposes of IFRS 8, each individual property is considered to be a separate operating segment in that its performance is monitored individually.

The Group's property portfolio includes investment properties located throughout England, predominantly regional investments outside London and comprises a diverse portfolio of commercial buildings. The Directors consider that these properties have similar economic characteristics. Therefore, these individual properties have been aggregated into a single operating segment. In the view of the Directors, there is one reportable segment under the provisions of IFRS 8.

All of the Group's properties are based in the UK. No geographical grouping is contained in any of the internal financial reports provided to the Group's Executive Committee and, therefore, no geographical segmental analysis is required by IFRS 8.

 
                                                2018      2017 
Revenue - type                               GBP'000   GBP'000 
------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Rents received from investment properties     16,360    13,809 
------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Management fees & other income                   373       457 
------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Total Revenue                                 16,733    14,266 
------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 

No single tenant accounts for more than 10% of the Group's total rents received from investment properties.

2. RECONCILIATION OF OPERATING PROFIT

Reconciliation of operating profit to cash generated in operations

 
                                                            2018      2017 
                                                         GBP'000   GBP'000 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Profit before taxation                                    13,304    12,577 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Finance income                                              (10)       (3) 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Finance costs                                              3,442     3,014 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Gains on revaluation of investment property portfolio    (5,738)   (3,101) 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Profit on disposal of investment properties                (274)   (3,191) 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Depreciation                                                  45        20 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Share based payments                                         174       237 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
(Increase)/Decrease in receivables                       (3,081)     1,681 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Increase/(Decrease) in payables                            2,037     (940) 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Net cash generated in operations                           9,899    10,294 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 

3. OTHER INTEREST RECEIVABLE AND SIMILAR INCOME

 
                             2018      2017 
                          GBP'000   GBP'000 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
Bank interest received         10         3 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
                               10         3 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
 

4. INTEREST PAYABLE AND SIMILAR CHARGES

 
                                     2018      2017 
                                  GBP'000   GBP'000 
-------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Interest on bank loans              2,677     2,452 
-------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Loan arrangement fees                 342       249 
-------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Debt termination cost                 127       155 
-------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Interest on finance leases            115       158 
-------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Fair value loss on derivatives        181         - 
-------------------------------  --------  -------- 
                                    3,442     3,014 
-------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 

5. PROFIT FOR THE PERIOD

a) The Group's profit for the period is stated after charging the following:

 
                                                           2018      2017 
                                                        GBP'000   GBP'000 
-----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Depreciation of tangible fixed assets:                       45        20 
-----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 
Auditor's remuneration: 
-----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Fees payable to the auditor for the audit of the 
 Group's annual accounts                                     83        50 
-----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Fees payable to the auditor for the audit of the 
 subsidiaries annual accounts                                21        21 
-----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Fees payable to the auditor and its related entities 
 for other services: 
-----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Corporate advisory services                                 240         - 
-----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Audit related assurance services                              8         8 
-----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Tax services                                                 64        18 
-----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
                                                            416        97 
-----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 

Amounts payable to BDO LLP in respect of audit and non-audit services are disclosed in the table above.

b) The Group's property operating expenses comprise the following:

 
                                                     2018      2017 
                                                  GBP'000   GBP'000 
-----------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Void investment and development property costs      1,445     2,055 
-----------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Legal, lettings and consultancy costs                 379         - 
-----------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
                                                    1,824     2,055 
-----------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 

The Group had no properties that were vacant throughout the period.

c) The Group's administrative expenses comprise the following:

 
                                              2018      2017 
                                           GBP'000   GBP'000 
----------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Staff costs                                  2,200     1,413 
----------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Costs in respect of move to Main Market        698         - 
----------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Rent, rates and other office costs             207        80 
----------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Accounting and audit fees                      188       141 
----------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Share based payments                           174       237 
----------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Other overheads                                162        77 
----------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
PR and marketing costs                         160       197 
----------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Consultancy and recruitment fees               145        93 
----------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Legal & professional fees                      108       393 
----------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Stock Exchange costs                            93        86 
----------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Depreciation                                    45        20 
----------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Property management fees                         5       178 
----------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
                                             4,185     2,915 
----------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 

d) EPRA cost ratios are calculated as follows:

 
                                                          2018      2017 
                                                       GBP'000   GBP'000 
----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Gross revenue                                           16,733    14,266 
----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 
Administrative expenses                                  4,185     2,915 
----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Property operating expenses                              1,824     2,055 
----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
EPRA costs (including property operating expenses)       6,009     4,970 
----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
EPRA Cost Ratio (including property operating 
 expenses)                                               35.9%     34.8% 
----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 
Less property operating expenses                       (1,824)   (2,055) 
----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
EPRA costs (excluding property operating expenses)       4,185     2,915 
----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
EPRA Cost Ratio (excluding property operating 
 expenses)                                               25.0%     20.4% 
----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 
Adjust for: 
----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Exceptional costs in respect of move to Main Market      (698)         - 
----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Net administrative expenses                              3,487     2,915 
----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Company admin cost ratio                                 20.8%     20.4% 
----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 

6. EMPLOYEES AND DIRECTORS' REMUNERATION

Staff costs during the period were as follows:

 
                                    2018      2017 
                                 GBP'000   GBP'000 
------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Non-Executive Directors' fees        108        84 
------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Wages and salaries                 1,795     1,150 
------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Pensions                              67        55 
------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Social security costs                230       124 
------------------------------  --------  -------- 
                                   2,200     1,413 
------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 
Share based payments                 174       237 
------------------------------  --------  -------- 
                                   2,374     1,650 
------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 

The average number of employees of the Group and the Company during the period was:

 
                                           2018     2017 
                                         Number   Number 
--------------------------------------  -------  ------- 
Directors                                     6        6 
--------------------------------------  -------  ------- 
Senior management and other employees         8        5 
--------------------------------------  -------  ------- 
                                             14       11 
--------------------------------------  -------  ------- 
 

Key management are the Group's Directors. Remuneration in respect of key management was as follows:

 
                                         2018      2017 
                                      GBP'000   GBP'000 
-----------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Short-term employee benefits: 
-----------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Emoluments for qualifying services      1,369       992 
-----------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Social security costs                     200       132 
-----------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Pension                                    38        37 
-----------------------------------  --------  -------- 
                                        1,607     1,161 
-----------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 
Share-based payments                      153       198 
-----------------------------------  --------  -------- 
                                        1,760     1,359 
-----------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 

7. TAXATION

 
                                             2018      2017 
                                          GBP'000   GBP'000 
---------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Current income tax charge                   1,062       683 
---------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Capital gains charge in period                 31         - 
---------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Tax under/(over)provided in prior year         10      (13) 
---------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Deferred tax                                (330)     2,521 
---------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Tax charge                                    773     3,191 
---------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 
 
                                                       2018      2017 
                                                    GBP'000   GBP'000 
-------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Profit on ordinary activities before tax             13,304    12,577 
-------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 
Based on profit for the period: 
 Tax at 19.0% (2017: 20%)                             2,528     2,515 
-------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 
Effect of: 
-------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Capital losses and indexation used in the period    (1,142)   (1,260) 
-------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Other adjustments                                        48        52 
-------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Capital gains charge in period                           31         - 
-------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Tax under/(over)provided in prior years                  10      (13) 
-------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Deferred tax not previously recognised                (702)     1,897 
-------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Tax charge for the period                               773     3,191 
-------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 

Deferred taxes at 31 March 2018 relates to the following:

 
                                                              2018      2017 
                                                           GBP'000   GBP'000 
--------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Deferred tax (liability)/asset - brought forward           (2,187)       334 
--------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Losses used in the year                                       (13)     (321) 
--------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Deferred tax liability on accredited capital allowances        400   (2,142) 
--------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Deferred tax on fair value of investment property             (40)      (58) 
--------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Deferred tax recognised on acquisition                     (4,691)         - 
--------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Deferred tax (liability) - carried forward                 (6,531)   (2,187) 
--------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 
 
                                                     2018      2017 
                                                  GBP'000   GBP'000 
-----------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Accelerated capital allowances                    (2,594)   (2,142) 
-----------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Investment property unrealised valuation gains    (3,937)      (58) 
-----------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Losses carried forward                                  -        13 
-----------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Deferred tax (liability) - carried forward        (6,531)   (2,187) 
-----------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 

At 31 March 2018, the Group had tax losses of GBPNil (2017: GBP67,211) available to carry forward to future periods.

Capital allowances have been claimed on improvements to investment properties amounting to GBP18,697,000 (2017: GBP12,908,000). A deferred tax liability amounting to GBP2,594,000 (2017: GBP2,142,000) has been recognised in the financial statements, although it is expected that the capital allowances will not reverse when the properties are disposed of.

A deferred tax liability on the revaluation of investment properties to fair value has been provided totalling GBP3,937,000 (2017: GBP58,000) as once the availability of capital losses, indexation allowances and the 1982 valuations for certain properties have been taken into account it is anticipated that capital gains tax would be payable if the properties were disposed of at their fair value. As at 31 March 2018 the Group had approximately GBP6,413,000 (2017: GBP6,500,000) of realised capital losses to carry forward. There has been no deferred tax asset recognised as it is not probable future taxable profits will be available to utilise these losses.

Finance Act 2015 sets the main rate of UK corporation tax at 20 per cent with effect on 1 April 2015. The enactment of Finance (No. 2) Act 2015 and Finance Act 2016 reduces the main rate of corporation tax to 19 per cent from April 2017 and 17 per cent from April 2020. The deferred tax liability has been calculated on the basis of 17 percent due to the expectation that all properties are retained through April 2020, with the exception of the assets held for sale which have been calculated on the current corporation tax basis of 19%.

8. EARNINGS PER SHARE

Basic earnings per share

Basic earnings per share and Diluted earnings per share have been calculated on profit after tax attributable to ordinary shareholders for the year (as shown on the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income) and for the Earnings per share, the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue during the period (see below table) and for Diluted weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue during the year (see below table).

 
                                                             2018      2017 
                                                          GBP'000   GBP'000 
-------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Profit after tax attributable to ordinary shareholders 
 for the year                                              12,531     9,386 
-------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 
 
                                                                2018           2017 
                                                        No of shares   No of shares 
-----------------------------------------------------  -------------  ------------- 
Weighted average number of shares for basic earnings 
 per share                                                34,943,855     25,650,141 
-----------------------------------------------------  -------------  ------------- 
Dilutive effect of share options                              36,322         87,584 
-----------------------------------------------------  -------------  ------------- 
Weighted average number of shares for diluted 
 earnings per share                                       34,980,177     25,737,725 
-----------------------------------------------------  -------------  ------------- 
 
Earnings per ordinary share; 
-----------------------------------------------------  -------------  ------------- 
Basic                                                          35.9p          36.6p 
-----------------------------------------------------  -------------  ------------- 
Diluted                                                        35.8p          36.5p 
-----------------------------------------------------  -------------  ------------- 
 

Key Performance Measures

The Group financial statements are prepared under IFRS which incorporates non-realised fair value measures and non-recurring items. Alternative Performance Measures ('APMs'), being financial measures which are not specified under IFRS are also used by Management to assess the Group's performance. These include a number of European Public Real Estate Association ('EPRA') measures, prepared in accordance with the EPRA Best Practice Recommendations (BPR) reporting framework the latest update

of which was issued in November 2016. We report a number of these measures (detailed in the glossary of terms) because Management considers them to improve the transparency and relevance of our published results as well as the comparability

with other listed European real estate companies.

EPRA EPS and EPRA Diluted EPS

EPRA Earnings is a measure of operational performance and represents the net income generated from the operational activities. It is intended to provide an indicator of the underlying income performance generated from the leasing and management of the property portfolio. EPRA earnings are calculated taking the profit after tax excluding investment property revaluations and gains and losses on disposals, changes in fair value of financial instruments, associated close-out costs, one-off finance termination costs, share-based payments and other one-off exceptional items. EPRA earnings is calculated on the basis of the basic number of shares in line with IFRS earnings as the dividends to which they give rise accrue to current shareholders. The EPRA diluted earnings per share also takes into account the dilution of share options and warrants if exercised.

Adjusted profit before tax and Adjusted EPS

Palace Capital also reports an adjusted earnings measure which is based on recurring earnings before tax and the basic number of shares. This is the basis on which the directors consider dividend cover. This takes EPRA earnings as the starting point and then adds back tax and any other fair value movements or one-off items that were included in EPRA earnings. For Palace Capital this includes share-based payments being a non-cash expense and also one-off surrender premiums received. The corporation tax charge (excluding deferred tax movements, being a non-cash expense) is deducted in order to calculate the adjusted earnings per share.

The EPRA and adjusted earnings per share for the period are calculated based upon the following information:

 
                                                            2018      2017 
                                                         GBP'000   GBP'000 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Profit for the year                                       12,531     9,386 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Adjustments: 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Gains on revaluation of investment property portfolio    (5,738)   (3,101) 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Profit on disposal of investment properties                (274)   (3,191) 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Debt termination costs                                       127       155 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Fair value loss on derivatives                               181         - 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Deferred tax relating to EPRA adjustments and 
 capital gain charged                                      (299)     2,200 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 
EPRA earnings for the year                                 6,528     5,449 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Share based payments                                         174       237 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Costs in respect of move to Main Market                      698         - 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 
Adjusted profit after tax for the year                     7,400     5,686 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Tax excluding deferred tax on EPRA adjustments 
 and capital gain charged                                  1,071       991 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Adjusted profit before tax for the year                    8,471     6,677 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 
EPRA AND ADJUSTED EARNINGS PER ORDINARY SHARE; 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
EPRA Basic                                                 18.7p     21.2p 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
EPRA Diluted                                               18.7p     21.2p 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Adjusted EPS                                               21.2p     22.2p 
------------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 

9. NET ASSETS VALUE PER SHARE

EPRA NAV calculation makes adjustments to IFRS NAV to provide stakeholders with the most relevant information on the fair value of the assets and liabilities within a true real estate investment company with a long-term investment strategy. EPRA NAV is adjusted to take effect of the exercise options, convertibles and other equity interests and excludes the fair value of financial instruments and deferred tax on latent gains. EPRA NNNAV measure is to report net asset value including fair values of financial instruments and deferred tax on latent gains.

The diluted net assets and the number of diluted ordinary issued shares at the end of the period assumes that all the outstanding options that are exercisable at the period end are exercised at the option price.

Net asset value is calculated using the following information:

 
                                                     2018      2017 
                                                  GBP'000   GBP'000 
-----------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Net assets at the end of the year                 183,299   109,559 
-----------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Diluted net assets at end of the year             183,299   109,559 
-----------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 
Exclude fair value of financial instruments           181         - 
-----------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Exclude deferred tax on latent capital gains & 
 capital allowances                                 6,531     2,200 
-----------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
EPRA NAV                                          190,011   111,759 
-----------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Include fair value of financial instruments         (181)         - 
-----------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Include deferred tax on latent capital gains & 
 capital allowances                               (6,531)   (2,200) 
-----------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
EPRA NNNAV                                        183,299   109,559 
-----------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 
 
                                                            2018           2017 
                                                    No of shares   No of shares 
-------------------------------------------------  -------------  ------------- 
Number of ordinary shares issued at the end of 
 the year (excluding treasury shares)                 45,805,280     25,150,692 
-------------------------------------------------  -------------  ------------- 
Dilutive effect of share options                          36,322         87,584 
-------------------------------------------------  -------------  ------------- 
Number of ordinary shares issued for diluted and 
 EPRA net assets per share                            45,841,602     25,238,276 
-------------------------------------------------  -------------  ------------- 
 
Net assets per ordinary share 
-------------------------------------------------  -------------  ------------- 
Basic                                                       400p           436p 
-------------------------------------------------  -------------  ------------- 
Diluted                                                     400p           434p 
-------------------------------------------------  -------------  ------------- 
EPRA NAV                                                    415p           443p 
-------------------------------------------------  -------------  ------------- 
EPRA NNNAV                                                  400p           434p 
-------------------------------------------------  -------------  ------------- 
 

10. DIVIDS

 
                                                 Dividend       2018      2017 
                               Payment date     per share    GBP'000   GBP'000 
-----------------------------  --------------  ----------  ---------  -------- 
2018 
-----------------------------  --------------  ----------  ---------  -------- 
Final dividend                 31 July 2018          4.75          -         - 
-----------------------------  --------------  ----------  ---------  -------- 
Interim dividend               13 April 2018         4.75          -         - 
-----------------------------  --------------  ----------  ---------  -------- 
                               29 December 
Interim dividend                2017                 9.50      4,355         - 
-----------------------------  --------------  ----------  ---------  -------- 
Distribution of current 
 year profit                                        19.00      4,355         - 
---------------------------------------------  ----------  ---------  -------- 
 
2017 
-----------------------------  --------------  ----------  ---------  -------- 
Final dividend                 28 July 2017          9.50      2,389         - 
-----------------------------  --------------  ----------  ---------  -------- 
                               30 December 
Interim dividend                2016                 9.00          -     2,309 
-----------------------------  --------------  ----------  ---------  -------- 
Distribution of current 
 year profit                                        18.50      2,389     2,309 
---------------------------------------------  ----------  ---------  -------- 
 
2016 
-----------------------------  --------------  ----------  ---------  -------- 
Final dividend                 29 July 2016          9.00          -     2,308 
-----------------------------  --------------  ----------  ---------  -------- 
                               30 December 
Interim dividend                2015                 7.00          -         - 
-----------------------------  --------------  ----------  ---------  -------- 
Distribution of prior year 
 profit                                             16.00          -     2,308 
---------------------------------------------  ----------  ---------  -------- 
 
Dividends reported in the Group Statement 
 of Changes in Equity                                          6,744     4,617 
---------------------------------------------  ----------  ---------  -------- 
 

Proposed Dividends

 
                                                             2018      2017 
                                                          GBP'000   GBP'000 
------------------------------------------------------  ---------  -------- 
July 2018 final dividend: 4.75p (2017 final dividend: 
 9.50p)                                                     2,177     2,389 
------------------------------------------------------  ---------  -------- 
April 2018 interim dividend: 4.75p (2017 final 
 dividend: n/a)                                             2,177         - 
------------------------------------------------------  ---------  -------- 
                                                            4,354     2,389 
------------------------------------------------------  ---------  -------- 
 

Proposed dividends on ordinary shares are subject to approval at the Annual General Meeting and are not recognised as a liability as at 31 March 2018.

11. Investment Properties

 
                                                   Freehold      Leasehold 
                                                 Investment     Investment 
                                                 properties     properties     Total 
                                                    GBP'000        GBP'000   GBP'000 
----------------------------------------------  -----------  -------------  -------- 
At 1 April 2016                                     149,423         25,119   174,542 
----------------------------------------------  -----------  -------------  -------- 
Additions - refurbishment                             4,505             74     4,579 
----------------------------------------------  -----------  -------------  -------- 
Additions - new properties                           10,950              -    10,950 
----------------------------------------------  -----------  -------------  -------- 
Gains on revaluation of investment properties         3,090             11     3,101 
----------------------------------------------  -----------  -------------  -------- 
Disposals                                           (7,740)        (1,516)   (9,256) 
----------------------------------------------  -----------  -------------  -------- 
At 1 April 2017                                     160,228         23,688   183,916 
----------------------------------------------  -----------  -------------  -------- 
Additions - refurbishments                            2,681             73     2,754 
----------------------------------------------  -----------  -------------  -------- 
Additions - new properties                           92,014              -    92,014 
----------------------------------------------  -----------  -------------  -------- 
Transfer to assets held for sale                   (21,708)              -  (21,708) 
----------------------------------------------  -----------  -------------  -------- 
Gains on revaluation of investment properties         4,888            850     5,738 
----------------------------------------------  -----------  -------------  -------- 
Disposals                                           (5,361)        (3,490)   (8,851) 
----------------------------------------------  -----------  -------------  -------- 
At 31 March 2018                                    232,742         21,121   253,863 
----------------------------------------------  -----------  -------------  -------- 
 

The Group made two corporate acquisitions in the year:

SM Newcastle OB Limited

The acquisition of SM Newcastle OB Limited was made on 7 August 2017. The Directors have taken the view that this acquisition had the attributes of an asset purchase rather than a business combination and therefore the value of the asset at the acquisition date amounting to GBP20.0m has been added to the additions within investment properties, net of rent top-ups of GBP1.2m, together with the acquisition costs amounting to GBP371,000.

R.T Warren (Investments) Limited

The acquisition of R.T Warren (Investments) Limited was made on 9 October 2017. The Directors have taken the view that this acquisition had the attributes of an asset purchase rather than a business combination and therefore the value of the asset at the acquisition date amounting to GBP71.8m has been added to the additions within investment properties together with the acquisition costs amounting to GBP1.5m.

Investment properties are stated at fair value as determined by independent valuers who make use of historical and current market data as well as existing lease agreements. The fair value of the Group's property portfolio is based upon independent valuations and is inherently subjective. The fair value represents the amount at which the assets could be exchanged between a knowledgeable, willing buyer and a knowledgeable, willing seller in an arms-length transaction at the date of valuation, in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standard 13. The fair value of each of the properties has been assessed by the independent valuers.

As a result of the level of judgement used in arriving at the market valuations, the amounts which may ultimately be realised in respect of any given property may differ from the valuations shown in the Statement of Financial Position.

In addition to the gain on revaluation of investment properties included in the table above, realised gains of GBP274,000 (2017: GBP3,191,000) relating to investment properties disposed of during the year were recognised in profit or loss.

A reconciliation of the valuations carried out by the independent valuers to the carrying values shown in the Statement of Financial Position was as follows:

 
                                                       2018      2017 
                                                    GBP'000   GBP'000 
-------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Cushman & Wakefield LLP                             255,024   183,175 
-------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 
Adjustment in respect of minimum payment under 
 head leases                                          1,600     1,959 
-------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Less lease incentive balance included in accrued 
 income                                             (1,731)   (1,218) 
-------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Less rent top-up adjustment                         (1,030)         - 
-------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Carrying value                                      253,863   183,916 
-------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 

The valuations of all investment property held by the Group is classified as Level 3 in the IFRS 13 fair value hierarchy as they are based on unobservable inputs. There have been no transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy during the year.

Valuation process

The valuation reports produced by the independent valuers are based on information provided by the Group such as current rents, terms and conditions of lease agreements, service charges and capital expenditure. This information is derived from the Group's financial and property management systems and is subject to the Group's overall control environment.

In addition, the valuation reports are based on assumptions and valuation models used by the independent valuers. The assumptions are typically market related, such as yields and discount rates, and are based on their professional judgment and market observations. Each property is considered a separate asset, based on its unique nature, characteristics and the risks of the property.

The Executive Director responsible for the valuation process verifies all major inputs to the external valuation reports, assesses the individual property valuation changes from the prior year valuation report and holds discussions with the independent valuers. When this process is complete, the valuation report is recommended to the Audit Committee, which considers it as part of its overall responsibilities.

The key assumptions made in the valuation of the Group's investment properties are:

- The amount and timing of future income streams;

- Anticipated maintenance costs and other landlord's liabilities; and

- An appropriate yield.

Valuation technique

The valuations reflect the tenancy data supplied by the Group along with associated revenue costs and capital expenditure. The fair value of the commercial investment portfolio has been derived from capitalising the future estimated net income receipts at capitalisation rates reflected by recent arm's length sales transactions.

11. Investment Properties

 
                                 Significant unobservable 
                                                   inputs 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
31 March 2018                         Cushman & Wakefield 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Value of investment properties             GBP255,024,000 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Area (sq ft)                                    1,606,656 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Gross Estimated Rental Value                GBP19,887,269 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
 
Net Initial Yield 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Minimum                                            (4.0%) 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Maximum                                             21.5% 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Weighted average                                     6.2% 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Reversionary Yield 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Minimum                                              4.7% 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Maximum                                             15.0% 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Weighted average                                     6.9% 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Equivalent Yield 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Minimum                                              3.5% 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Maximum                                             15.5% 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Weighted average                                     7.2% 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
 

Negative Net Initial Yields arise where properties are vacant or partially vacant and void costs exceed rental income.

 
                                 Significant unobservable 
                                                   inputs 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
31 March 2017                         Cushman & Wakefield 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Value of investment properties             GBP183,175,000 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Area (sq ft)                                    1,576,206 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Gross Estimated Rental Value                GBP15,892,432 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Net Initial Yield 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Minimum                                              0.9% 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Maximum                                              9.2% 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Weighted average                                     5.9% 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Reversionary Yield 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Minimum                                              5.5% 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Maximum                                             18.7% 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Weighted average                                     6.9% 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Equivalent Yield 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Minimum                                              3.2% 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Maximum                                             11.7% 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
Weighted average                                     7.6% 
-------------------------------  ------------------------ 
 

The following descriptions and definitions relating to valuation techniques and key unobservable inputs made in determining fair values are as follows:

Valuation techniques: market comparable method

Under the market comparable method (or market comparable approach), a property's fair value is estimated based on comparable transactions in the market.

Unobservable input: estimated rental value

The rent at which space could be let in the market conditions prevailing at the date of valuation (range: GBP34,000 - GBP1,761,600 per annum).

Rental values are dependent on a number of variables in relation to the Group's property. These include: size, location, tenant, covenant strength and terms of the lease.

Unobservable input: net initial yield

The net initial yield is defined as the initial gross income as a percentage of the market value (or purchase price as appropriate) plus standard costs of purchase (range: 1.76%-6.76%)

Sensitivities of measurement of significant unobservable inputs

As set out within significant accounting estimates and judgements above, the Group's property portfolio valuation is open to judgements inherently subjective by nature.

 
                                  Impact on fair      Impact on fair 
                               value measurement   value measurement 
                                  of significant      of significant 
Unobservable input             increase in input   decrease in input 
----------------------------  ------------------  ------------------ 
Gross Estimated Rental Value            Increase            Decrease 
----------------------------  ------------------  ------------------ 
Net Initial Yield                       Decrease            Increase 
----------------------------  ------------------  ------------------ 
Reversionary Yield                      Decrease            Increase 
----------------------------  ------------------  ------------------ 
Equivalent Yield                        Decrease            Increase 
----------------------------  ------------------  ------------------ 
 
 
                                                                   +0.25% in      -0.25% in 
                                       -5% in ERV  +5% in ERV    net initial    net initial 
                                           (GBPm)      (GBPm)   yield (GBPm)   yield (GBPm) 
-------------------------------------  ----------  ----------  -------------  ------------- 
(Decrease)/increase in the 
 fair value of investment properties 
 as at 31 March 2018                       (8.77)       10.33         (9.73)          10.74 
-------------------------------------  ----------  ----------  -------------  ------------- 
(Decrease)/increase in the 
 fair value of investment properties 
 as at 31 March 2017                       (7.64)        7.18         (7.88)           9.32 
-------------------------------------  ----------  ----------  -------------  ------------- 
 

Assets held for sale

 
                           2018      2017 
                        GBP'000   GBP'000 
---------------------  --------  -------- 
Assets held for sale     21,708         - 
---------------------  --------  -------- 
                         21,708         - 
---------------------  --------  -------- 
 

Assets held for sale consist of the residential portfolio acquired in October 2017 as part of the Warren acquisition. The Group announced it was its intention to dispose of the portfolio as soon as terms with a potential buyer could be agreed. In accordance with the Group's accounting policy, these properties are classified as held for sale at 31 March 2018.

The residential portfolio has been valued by the board of directors based on open market information available and discussions with valuation professionals. The valuation has been held in the financial statements at a lower of their carrying value immediately prior to being classified as held for sale and fair value less costs to sell.

12. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

 
                                   IT, fixtures 
                                   and fittings 
                                         GBP000 
--------------------------------  ------------- 
At 1 April 2016                              66 
--------------------------------  ------------- 
Assets acquired                               - 
--------------------------------  ------------- 
Additions                                    26 
--------------------------------  ------------- 
At 1 April 2017                              92 
--------------------------------  ------------- 
Additions                                   123 
--------------------------------  ------------- 
At 31 March 2018                            215 
--------------------------------  ------------- 
 
Depreciation 
--------------------------------  ------------- 
At 1 April 2016                              29 
--------------------------------  ------------- 
Provided during the year                     20 
--------------------------------  ------------- 
At 1 April 2017                              49 
--------------------------------  ------------- 
Provided during the year                     45 
--------------------------------  ------------- 
At 31 March 2018                             94 
--------------------------------  ------------- 
 
Net book value at 31 March 2018             121 
--------------------------------  ------------- 
Net book value at 31 March 2017              43 
--------------------------------  ------------- 
 

13. TRADE AND OTHER RECEIVABLES

 
                                           2018     2017 
                                         GBP000   GBP000 
--------------------------------------  -------  ------- 
Current 
--------------------------------------  -------  ------- 
Gross amounts receivable from tenants     2,598    1,090 
--------------------------------------  -------  ------- 
Less: provision for impairment            (163)    (139) 
--------------------------------------  -------  ------- 
Net amount receivable from tenants        2,435      951 
--------------------------------------  -------  ------- 
Other taxes                                 609        - 
--------------------------------------  -------  ------- 
Other debtors                               114       61 
--------------------------------------  -------  ------- 
Accrued income                            1,731    1,218 
--------------------------------------  -------  ------- 
Prepayments                                 662      281 
--------------------------------------  -------  ------- 
                                          5,551    2,511 
--------------------------------------  -------  ------- 
 

Accrued income amounting to GBP1,731,000 (2017: GBP1,218,000) relates to rents recognised in advance of receipt as a result of spreading the effect of rent free and reduced rent periods, capital contributions in lieu of rent free periods and contracted rent uplifts over the expected terms of their respective leases.

Movements in the provision for impairment of trade receivables were as follows:

 
                             2018      2017 
                          GBP'000   GBP'000 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
Brought forward               139       243 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
Utilised in the period       (71)     (182) 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
Provisions increased           95        78 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
                              163       139 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
 

As at 31 March, the analysis of trade receivables, net of provisions, which were past due but not impaired is as follows:

 
                         2018      2017 
                      GBP'000   GBP'000 
-------------------  --------  -------- 
0 - 30 days             1,848       630 
-------------------  --------  -------- 
31 - 60 days               16        92 
-------------------  --------  -------- 
61 - 90 days               26        21 
-------------------  --------  -------- 
91 - 120 days             236        78 
-------------------  --------  -------- 
More than 120 days        309       130 
-------------------  --------  -------- 
                        2,435       951 
-------------------  --------  -------- 
 

14. CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

All of the Group's cash and cash equivalents at 31 March 2018 and 31 March 2017 are in Sterling and held at floating interest rates.

 
                                               2018      2017 
                                            GBP'000   GBP'000 
-----------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Cash and cash equivalents - unrestricted     17,985    10,937 
-----------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Restricted cash                               1,048       244 
-----------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
                                             19,033    11,181 
-----------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 

The Directors consider that the carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents approximates to their fair value.

Restricted cash is cash where there is a legal restriction to specify its type of use. This is typically where the Group has agreed to deposit cash with a lender with regards to top-ups received from vendors on completion funds, to be realized over time consistent with the loss of income on vacant units.

15. TRADE AND OTHER PAYABLES

 
                             2018      2017 
                          GBP'000   GBP'000 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
Trade payables                986       570 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
Corporation tax             1,051       564 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
Other taxes                 1,307       844 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
Other payables                108         6 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
Deferred rental income      3,466     2,860 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
Accruals                    1,916     1,317 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
                            8,834     6,161 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
 

16. DERIVATIVES

The Group adopts a policy of entering into derivative financial instruments to provide an economic hedge to its interest rate risks and ensure its exposure to interest rate fluctuations is mitigated.

The contract rate is the fixed rate the Group are paying for its interest rate swaps.

The valuation rate is the variable LIBOR & bank base rate the banks are paying for the interest rate swaps.

Details of the interest rate swaps the Group entered can be found in the table below.

The valuations of all derivatives held by the Group is classified as Level 2 in the IFRS 13 fair value hierarchy as they are based on observable inputs. There have been no transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy during the year.

Further details on interest rate risks are included in note 26.

 
                                    Contract  Valuation  2018 Fair  2017 Fair 
            Notional    Expiry          rate       rate      value      value 
Bank         principal   date              %          %    GBP'000    GBP'000 
----------  ----------  ----------  --------  ---------  ---------  --------- 
Barclays 
 Bank plc   35,722,900  25/01/2023    1.3420     1.2850       (92)          - 
----------  ----------  ----------  --------  ---------  ---------  --------- 
Santander 
 plc        20,000,000  03/08/2022    1.3730     1.2630       (89)          - 
----------  ----------  ----------  --------  ---------  ---------  --------- 
            55,722,900                                       (181)          - 
----------  ----------  ----------  --------  ---------  ---------  --------- 
 

17. BORROWINGS

 
                              2018      2017 
                           GBP'000   GBP'000 
------------------------  --------  -------- 
Current 
------------------------  --------  -------- 
Bank loans                   2,686     2,036 
------------------------  --------  -------- 
Non-current liabilities 
------------------------  --------  -------- 
Bank loans                  97,157    75,758 
------------------------  --------  -------- 
Total borrowings            99,843    77,794 
------------------------  --------  -------- 
 
 
                                2018      2017 
                             GBP'000   GBP'000 
--------------------------  --------  -------- 
Non-current liabilities 
--------------------------  --------  -------- 
Secured Bank loans drawn      98,709    76,694 
--------------------------  --------  -------- 
Unamortised lending costs    (1,552)     (936) 
--------------------------  --------  -------- 
                              97,157    75,758 
--------------------------  --------  -------- 
 

The maturity profile of the Group's debt was as follows:

 
                             2018      2017 
                          GBP'000   GBP'000 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
Within one year             2,686     2,036 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
From one to two years       2,686     2,036 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
From two to five years     83,607    61,806 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
After 5 years              12,416    12,852 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
                          101,395    78,730 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
 

Facility and arrangement fees

As at 31 March 2018

 
                                                                     Unamortised 
                                                                        facility       Facility 
                                         Maturity      Loan Balance         fees          drawn 
Secured Borrowings          All in cost   date              GBP'000      GBP'000        GBP'000 
--------------------------  -----------  ------------  ------------  -----------  ------------- 
Santander Bank Plc          3.71%        August 2022         26,376        (374)         26,750 
--------------------------  -----------  ------------  ------------  -----------  ------------- 
Lloyds Bank Plc             2.81%        April 2019           3,789         (23)          3,812 
--------------------------  -----------  ------------  ------------  -----------  ------------- 
National Westminster Bank 
 plc                        3.21%        March 2021          20,113        (276)         20,389 
--------------------------  -----------  ------------  ------------  -----------  ------------- 
Barclays                    2.66%        January 2023        35,169        (679)         35,848 
--------------------------  -----------  ------------  ------------  -----------  ------------- 
Scottish Widows             2.91%        July 2026           14,396        (200)         14,596 
--------------------------  -----------  ------------  ------------  -----------  ------------- 
                                                             99,843      (1,552)        101,395 
--------------------------  -----------  ------------  ------------  -----------  ------------- 
 

Investment properties with a carrying value of GBP234,429,000 (2017: GBP162,320,000) are subject to a first charge to secure the Group's bank loans amounting to GBP101,395,000 (2017: GBP78,730,000).

The Group has unused loan facilities amounting to GBP14,152,000 (2017: GBP3,582,000). A facility fee is charged on GBP10,000,000 of these facilities at a rate of 1.25% p.a. and is payable quarterly. This facility is secured on the investment properties held by Property Investment Holdings Limited and Palace Capital (Properties) Limited as part of the Natwest loan. The GBP4,152,000 balance of the unused facilities relates to the Barclays loan and has been drawn down since the year end (see post balance sheet event note 25).

The Group constantly monitors its approach to managing interest rate risk. The Group has fixed GBP70,119,000 (2017: GBP25,032,000) of its debt in order to provide surety of its interest cost and to mitigate interest rate risk. The remaining debt in place at year end is subject to floating rate in order to take advantage of the historically low interest rate environment.

The Group has a loan with Scottish Widows for GBP14,596,000 which is fully fixed at a rate of 2.9%.

The Group has a loan with Barclays Bank plc for GBP35,848,000, of which GBP35,723,000 is fixed using an interest rate swap (see note 16). The floating rate portion of the loan is charged at 3m LIBOR plus 1.95%.

The Group has a loan with Santander plc for GBP26,750,000, of which GBP20,000,000 is fixed using an interest rate swap (see note 16). The floating rate portion of the loan is charged at 3m LIBOR plus 2.5%.

The Group has a loan with Lloyds Bank plc for GBP3,812,000 which is fully charged at floating rate of 3m LIBOR plus 2.1%.

The Group has a loan with National Westminster Bank plc for GBP20,389,000 which is fully charged at floating rate of 3m LIBOR plus 2.5%.

The Group has been in compliance with all financial covenants of the above facilities applicable throughout the year.

18. GEARING and loan to value RATIO

The calculation of gearing is based on the following calculations of net assets and net debt:

 
                                       2018      2017 
                                    GBP'000   GBP'000 
---------------------------------  --------  -------- 
EPRA net asset value (note 9)       190,011   111,759 
---------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Borrowings                           99,843    77,794 
---------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Obligations under finance leases      1,588     1,950 
---------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Cash and cash equivalents          (19,033)  (11,181) 
---------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Net Debt                             82,398    68,563 
---------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 
NAV Gearing                             43%       61% 
---------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 

The calculation of bank loan to property value is calculated as follows:

 
                                          2018      2017 
                                       GBP'000   GBP'000 
------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Fair value of investment properties    253,863   183,175 
------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Assets held for sale                    21,708         - 
------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Fair value of property portfolio       275,571   183,175 
------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Borrowings - Bank loans                101,395    78,730 
------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Cash at bank                          (19,033)  (11,181) 
------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Net bank borrowings                     82,362    67,549 
------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Loan to value ratio                        37%       43% 
------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Net Loan to value ratio                    30%       37% 
------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 

19. RECONCILIATION OF LIABILITIES TO CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES

 
                                                         Bank borrowings     Total 
                                                                 GBP'000   GBP'000 
-------------------------------------------------------  ---------------  -------- 
Balance at the start of the year                                  77,794    77,794 
-------------------------------------------------------  ---------------  -------- 
Cash flows from financing activities: 
-------------------------------------------------------  ---------------  -------- 
Bank borrowings drawn                                             53,392    53,392 
-------------------------------------------------------  ---------------  -------- 
Bank borrowings repaid                                          (45,242)  (45,242) 
-------------------------------------------------------  ---------------  -------- 
Loan arrangement fees paid                                       (1,085)   (1,085) 
-------------------------------------------------------  ---------------  -------- 
Non cash movements: 
-------------------------------------------------------  ---------------  -------- 
Bank loan acquired on purchase of RT Warren                       14,515    14,515 
-------------------------------------------------------  ---------------  -------- 
Amortisation of loan arrangement fees                                342       342 
-------------------------------------------------------  ---------------  -------- 
Amortisation of loan arrangement fees on the repayment 
 of loans                                                            127       127 
-------------------------------------------------------  ---------------  -------- 
Balance at the end of the year                                    99,843    99,843 
-------------------------------------------------------  ---------------  -------- 
 

20. LEASES

Operating lease receipts in respect of rents on investment properties are receivable as follows:

 
                             2018      2017 
                          GBP'000   GBP'000 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
Within one year            16,911    13,204 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
From one to two years      14,699    10,882 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
From two to five years     29,612    22,810 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
From five to 25 years      41,635    41,001 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
                          102,857    87,897 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
 

Operating lease payments in respect of rents on leasehold properties occupied by the Group are payable as follows:

 
                             2018      2017 
                          GBP'000   GBP'000 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
Within one year               178        13 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
From one to two years         178         - 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
From two to five years        375         - 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
                              731        13 
-----------------------  --------  -------- 
 

Finance lease obligations in respect of rents payable on leasehold properties were payable as follows:

 
                                           2018                         2017 
-----------------------  ----------------------------------------  --------------- 
                                                    Present value    Present value 
                         Minimum lease                 of minimum       of minimum 
                              payments  Interest   lease payments   lease payments 
                               GBP'000   GBP'000          GBP'000          GBP'000 
-----------------------  -------------  --------  ---------------  --------------- 
Within one year                     96      (94)                2                2 
-----------------------  -------------  --------  ---------------  --------------- 
From one to two years               96      (94)                2                2 
-----------------------  -------------  --------  ---------------  --------------- 
From two to five years             290     (282)                8                8 
-----------------------  -------------  --------  ---------------  --------------- 
From five to 25 years            1,876   (1,818)               58               63 
-----------------------  -------------  --------  ---------------  --------------- 
After 25 years                   7,943   (6,425)            1,518            1,875 
-----------------------  -------------  --------  ---------------  --------------- 
                                10,301   (8,713)            1,588            1,950 
-----------------------  -------------  --------  ---------------  --------------- 
 

The net carrying amount of the leasehold properties is shown in note 11.

The Group has over 240 leases granted to its tenants. These vary dependent on the individual tenant and the respective property and demise and vary considerably from short-term leases of less than one year to longer term leases of over 10 years.

A number of these leases contain rent free periods. Standard lease provisions include service charge payments and recovery of other direct costs. All investment properties in the Group's portfolio generated rental income during the both the current and prior periods.

21. Share capital

 
Authorised, issued and fully paid share capital       2018      2017 
 is as follows:                                    GBP'000   GBP'000 
------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
46,388,515 Ordinary Shares of 10p each (2017: 
 25,800,279)                                         4,639     2,580 
------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
                                                     4,639     2,580 
------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 
 
                                                           2018      2017 
Reconciliation of movement in ordinary share capital    GBP'000   GBP'000 
-----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
At start of year                                          2,580     2,578 
-----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Issued in the year                                        2,059         2 
-----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
At end of year                                            4,639     2,580 
-----------------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 
 
                                                               Number 
                                                                of ordinary    Total number 
Movement in ordinary authorised                  Price per      shares issued   of shares 
 share capital                                    share pence   000s            000s 
--------------------------------  -------------  ------------  --------------  ------------ 
As at 31 Mar 2016                                                              25,781,229 
-----------------------------------------------  ------------  --------------  ------------ 
 
Exercise of warrants              15 June 2016   200           19,050 
--------------------------------  -------------  ------------  --------------  ------------ 
 
As at 31 Mar 2017                                                              25,800,229 
-----------------------------------------------  ------------  --------------  ------------ 
                                  9 October 
Equity issue                       2017          340           20,588,236 
--------------------------------  -------------  ------------  --------------  ------------ 
As at 31 March 2018                                                            46,388,515 
-----------------------------------------------  ------------  --------------  ------------ 
 
 
                                                                   Number 
                                                                    of ordinary    Total number 
                                                     Price per      shares issued   of shares 
Movement in treasury shares                           share pence   000s            000s 
-----------------------------------  --------------  ------------  --------------  ------------ 
Share buy-back by company            17 June 2016    360           91,587 
-----------------------------------  --------------  ------------  --------------  ------------ 
Share buy-back by company            20 June 2016    360           58,000 
-----------------------------------  --------------  ------------  --------------  ------------ 
Share buy-back by company            10 March 2017   340           531,593 
-----------------------------------  --------------  ------------  --------------  ------------ 
Share options issued from Treasury   10 March 2017   340           (31,593) 
-----------------------------------  --------------  ------------  --------------  ------------ 
Shares exercised under employee      20 September 
 LTIP scheme                          2017                         (66,352) 
-----------------------------------  --------------  ------------  --------------  ------------ 
As at 31 March 2018                                                                583,235 
---------------------------------------------------  ------------  --------------  ------------ 
 
Total number of shares excluding the number held 
 in treasury at 31 March 2018                                                      45,805,280 
-----------------------------------------------------------------  --------------  ------------ 
 

Year ended 31 March 2018

On 20 September 2017, 66,352 share options were exercised under the employee LTIP scheme.

On 9 October 2017 the company issued 20,588,236 ordinary 10p shares at a price of GBP3.40. Issue costs amounting to GBP2,349,000 were incurred and have been deducted from the share premium account.

Year ended 31 March 2017

On 15 June 2016 the company issued 19,050 ordinary shares of 10p. The issue costs amounting to GBP36,195 have been deducted from the share premium account.

On 17 June 2016 the company purchased 91,587 ordinary share of 10p each at a price of GBP3.60. All these purchased share are to be held as treasury shares.

On 20 June 2016 the company purchased 58,000 ordinary shares of 10p each at a price of GBP3.60. All these purchased shares are to be held as treasury shares.

On 10 March 2017 the company issued 31,593 ordinary 10p shares from Treasury at a price of GBP3.40.

On 10 March 2017 the company purchased 531,593 ordinary shares of 10p each at a price of GBP3.40. All these purchased share are to be held as treasury shares.

Shares held in Employee Benefit Trust

 
                                                                 Number of 
                                                                   options 
Authorised, issued and fully paid share capital is as follows:        000s 
---------------------------------------------------------------  --------- 
Transferred under scheme of arrangement                            100,000 
---------------------------------------------------------------  --------- 
Shares exercised under employee share scheme                      (66,352) 
---------------------------------------------------------------  --------- 
                                                                    33,648 
---------------------------------------------------------------  --------- 
 

Share options:

 
Reconciliation of movement in outstanding share             2018            2017 
 options                                           No of options   No of options 
------------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------- 
At start of year                                         689,660         569,022 
------------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------- 
Issued in the year                                       215,456         171,281 
------------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------- 
Exercised in the year                                   (66,352)        (50,643) 
------------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------- 
Lapsed in the year                                     (338,259)               - 
------------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------- 
Deferred bonus shares                                     36,322               - 
------------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------- 
At end of year                                           536,827         689,660 
------------------------------------------------  --------------  -------------- 
 

As at 31 March 2018, the Company had the following outstanding unexpired options.

 
                                              2018                            2017 
-------------------------------  ------------------------------  ------------------------------ 
                                                       Weighted                        Weighted 
Description of unexpired share                   average option                  average option 
 options                         No of options            price  No of options            price 
-------------------------------  -------------  ---------------  -------------  --------------- 
Employee benefit plan (note 
 22)                                   500,505               0p        689,660               0p 
-------------------------------  -------------  ---------------  -------------  --------------- 
Deferred bonus share scheme             36,322               0p              -               0p 
-------------------------------  -------------  ---------------  -------------  --------------- 
Total                                  536,827               0p        689,660               0p 
-------------------------------  -------------  ---------------  -------------  --------------- 
 
Exercisable                                  -               0p              -               0p 
-------------------------------  -------------  ---------------  -------------  --------------- 
Not exercisable                        536,827               0p        689,660               0p 
-------------------------------  -------------  ---------------  -------------  --------------- 
 

The weighted average remaining contractual life of share options at 31 March 2018 is 1.25 years.

22. Share-based PAYMENTS

Employee benefit plan

The following table illustrates the number and weighted average exercise prices of, and movements in, share options during the period:

 
                                                     Average share 
                           Number of   Exercise           price at        Grant      Vesting 
                             options      price   date of exercise         date         date 
------------------------  ----------  ---------  -----------------  -----------  ----------- 
Outstanding at 31 March 
 2016                        549,972        13p                  - 
------------------------  ----------  ---------  -----------------  -----------  ----------- 
Issued during the year 
 (LTIP 2016)                 171,281         0p                  -  4 July 2016  4 July 2019 
------------------------  ----------  ---------  -----------------  -----------  ----------- 
Exercised during year 
 to 31st March 2017         (31,593)       225p                  - 
------------------------  ----------  ---------  -----------------  -----------  ----------- 
Outstanding at 31 March 
 2017                        689,660         0p                  - 
------------------------  ----------  ---------  -----------------  -----------  ----------- 
Exercised during the 
 year (LTIP 2014)           (66,352)         0p               337p 
------------------------  ----------  ---------  -----------------  -----------  ----------- 
Issued during the year                                               1 November   1 November 
 (LTIP 2017)                 215,456         0p                  -         2017         2020 
------------------------  ----------  ---------  -----------------  -----------  ----------- 
Deferred bonus share 
 options                      36,322         0p                  - 
------------------------  ----------  ---------  -----------------  -----------  ----------- 
Lapsed during year 
 (LTIP 2014)               (331,759)         0p                  - 
------------------------  ----------  ---------  -----------------  -----------  ----------- 
Lapsed during year 
 (LTIP 2017)                 (6,500)         0p                  - 
------------------------  ----------  ---------  -----------------  -----------  ----------- 
Outstanding at 31 March 
 2018                        536,827         0p                  - 
------------------------  ----------  ---------  -----------------  -----------  ----------- 
 

The performance conditions applicable to the LTIPs 2015 and 2016 were adjusted following the acquisition of the R.T Warren portfolio and related placing.

LTIP 2015

The options are awarded to management on achievements against target on two separate measures over the three-year period ending 7 December 2018. Half the options will be awarded based on the first target and half based on the achievement of the second.

Net asset value per share (NAV) growth: is based on the Company's EPRA NAV per share as at 30 September 2018 adding back dividends per share paid during the period. This target will measure the compound growth in NAV over the three-year period ending 30 September 2018. The base level being GBP4.04 per share which was the EPRA NAV per share as at 30 September 2015. The base level was adjusted to GBP3.89 for the 3rd year calculation.

Total shareholder return (TSR) measures the total shareholder return (price rise plus dividends) over the period from 8 December 2015 to 7 December 2018. The base price being GBP3.70 per share which was the market price at the grant date.

 
                                              Average annual NAV 
                                               growth (compounded) 
Average annual TSR (compounded)                over the TSR performance 
 over the TSR performance period   Vesting %   period                    Vesting % 
---------------------------------  ---------  -------------------------  --------- 
<8%                                0          <8%                        0 
---------------------------------  ---------  -------------------------  --------- 
Equal to 8%                        33.33      Equal to 8%                33.33 
---------------------------------  ---------  -------------------------  --------- 
Equal to 13%                       100        Equal to 13%               100 
---------------------------------  ---------  -------------------------  --------- 
 

For the TSR measure, the achievement of between 8% and 13% compound growth will result in the number of Ordinary shares vesting to be calculated on a straight line basis between 33.33% and 100%. A similar rule will apply for the NAV condition between 8% and 13%.

LTIP 2016

The options are awarded to employees on achievements against targets on two separate measures over the three-year period ending 3 July 2019. Half the options will be awarded based on the first target and half based on the achievement of the second.

Net asset value per share (NAV) growth is based on the Company's EPRA NAV value per share as at 31 March 2016. This target will measure the compound growth in NAV over the three-year period ending 31 March 2019, and comparing this with the Net Asset Value Growth of a group of comparable companies. The base NAV per share being GBP4.14. The base NAV per share was adjusted to GBP3.89 for the final 2 years of calculations as stated previously.

22. Share-based PAYMENTS continued

Total shareholder return (TSR) measures the total shareholder return (price rise plus dividends) over the period from 4 July 2016 to 3 July 2019. The base price being GBP3.16 per share which was the market price at the grant date.

 
                                              Average annual NAV 
                                               growth (compounded) 
Average annual TSR (compounded)                over the TSR performance 
 over the TSR performance period   Vesting %   period                    Vesting % 
---------------------------------  ---------  -------------------------  --------- 
<8%                                        0  At median                         20 
---------------------------------  ---------  -------------------------  --------- 
                                              Between median and 
Equal to 8%                            33.33   upper quartile               20-100 
---------------------------------  ---------  -------------------------  --------- 
                                              Upper quartile and 
Equal to 13%                             100   above                           100 
---------------------------------  ---------  -------------------------  --------- 
 

For the TSR measure, the achievement of between 8 per cent and 13 per cent compound growth will result in the number of Ordinary shares vesting to be calculated on a straight line basis between 33.33 per cent and 100 per cent. A similar rule will apply for the NAV condition median and upper quartile.

LTIP 2017

The options are awarded to employees on achievements against targets on two separate measures over the three-year period ending 31 October 2020. Half the options will be awarded based on the first target and half based on the achievement of the second.

Net asset value per share (NAV) growth is based on the Company's EPRA NAV value per share as at 31 March 2017. This target will measure the compound growth in NAV over the three-year period ending 31 March 2020, and comparing this with the Net Asset Value Growth of a group of comparable companies. The base NAV per share being GBP3.89.

Total shareholder return (TSR) measures the total shareholder return (price rise plus dividends) over the period from 1 November 2017 to 31 October 2020. The base price being GBP3.40 per share which was the market price at the grant date.

 
                                              Average annual NAV 
                                               growth (compounded) 
Average annual TSR (compounded)                over the TSR performance 
 over the TSR performance period   Vesting %   period                    Vesting % 
---------------------------------  ---------  -------------------------  --------- 
<8%                                        0  At median                         20 
---------------------------------  ---------  -------------------------  --------- 
                                              Between median and 
Equal to 8%                            33.33   upper quartile               20-100 
---------------------------------  ---------  -------------------------  --------- 
                                              Upper quartile and 
Equal to 13%                             100   above                           100 
---------------------------------  ---------  -------------------------  --------- 
 

The fair value of grants was measured at the grant date using a Black-Scholes pricing model for the NAV tranche and using a Monte Carlo pricing model for the TSR tranche, taking into account the terms and conditions upon which the instruments were granted. The services received and a liability to pay for those services are recognised over the expected vesting period. The main assumptions of both the Black-Scholes and Monte Carlo pricing models are as follows:

 
                            Monte Carlo  Black-Scholes 
                            TSR Tranche    NAV Tranche 
-------------------------  ------------  ------------- 
Grant date                     01.11.17       01.11.17 
-------------------------  ------------  ------------- 
Share price                     GBP3.40        GBP3.40 
-------------------------  ------------  ------------- 
Exercise price                       0p             0p 
-------------------------  ------------  ------------- 
Term                            3 years        3 years 
-------------------------  ------------  ------------- 
Expected volatility              16.00%         16.00% 
-------------------------  ------------  ------------- 
Expected dividend yield           5.59%          5.59% 
-------------------------  ------------  ------------- 
Risk free rate                    0.56%          0.56% 
-------------------------  ------------  ------------- 
Time to vest (years)                3.0            3.0 
-------------------------  ------------  ------------- 
Expected forfeiture p.a.             0%             0% 
-------------------------  ------------  ------------- 
Fair value per option           GBP0.62        GBP2.87 
-------------------------  ------------  ------------- 
 

The expense recognised for employee share-based payment received during the period is shown in the following table:

 
                                                     2018      2017 
                                                  GBP'000   GBP'000 
-----------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
LTIP 2014                                               -       108 
-----------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
LTIP 2015                                              82        82 
-----------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
LTIP 2016                                              61        47 
-----------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
LTIP 2017                                              31         - 
-----------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
Total expense arising from share-based payment 
 transactions                                         174       237 
-----------------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 

23. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Accounting services amounting to GBP84,951 (2017: GBP85,863) have been provided to the Group by Stanley Davis Group Limited, a company where Stanley Davis is a Director.

Charitable donations amounting to GBP19,953 (2017: GBP9,811) have been made by the Group to Variety, the Children's Charity, a charity where Neil Sinclair is a Trustee.

Dividend payments made to directors amounted to GBP372,000 during the year.

24. CAPITAL COMMITMENTS

The obligation for capital expenditure relating to the construction, development or enhancement of investment properties entered into by the Group at 31 March 2018 amounted to GBP1,595,028 (2017: GBP78,363).

25. POST BALANCE SHEET EVENT

On 3 April 2018 the undrawn loan balance of GBP4,152,000 was drawn down, less fees. The balance is treated as a floating rate loan and is charged at 3 month LIBOR plus 1.95%.

26. Financial RISK MANAGEMENT

The Group's principal financial liabilities are loans and borrowings. The main purpose of the Group's loans and borrowings is to finance the acquisition and development of the Group's property portfolio. The Group has rent and other receivables, trade and other payables and cash and short-term deposits that arise directly from its operations.

All financial assets are classified as loans and receivables and all financial liabilities are measured at amortised cost.

The Group is exposed to market risk (including interest rate risk and real estate risk), credit risk and liquidity risk.

The Group's senior management oversee the management of these risks, and the Board of Directors has overall responsibility for the determination of the Group's risk management objectives and policies and it sets policies that seek to reduce risk as far as possible without unduly affecting the Group's competitiveness and flexibility. Further details regarding these policies are set out below:

Capital risk management

The Group considers its capital to comprise its share capital, share premium, other reserves and retained earnings which amounted to GBP183,299,000 at 31 March 2018 (2017: GBP109,599,000). The Group's capital management objectives are to safeguard the entity's ability to continue as a going concern, so that it can continue to provide returns for shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders and to provide an adequate return to shareholders by pricing its services commensurately with the level of risk.

Within the subsidiaries of the Group, the business has covenanted to maintain a specified leverage ratio and a net interest expense coverage ratio, all the terms of which have been adhered to during the year.

The Group manages its capital structure, and makes adjustments to it, in the light of changes in economic conditions. To maintain or adjust the capital structure, the Group may adjust the dividend payment to shareholders, return capital to shareholders or issue new shares.

Significant accounting policies

Details of the significant accounting policies and methods adopted, including the criteria for recognition, the basis of measurement and the basis on which income and expenses are recognised, in respect of each class of financial asset, financial liability and equity instrument are disclosed in the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2018.

Market risk

Market risk arises from the Group's use of interest bearing, tradable and foreign currency financial instruments. It is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in interest rates (interest rate risk), foreign exchange rates (foreign currency risk) or other market factors.

Interest rate risk

The interest rate exposure profile of the Group's financial assets and liabilities as at 31 March 2018 and 31 March 2017 were:

 
                                  Nil rate 
                                assets and      Floating  Fixed rate         Floating 
                               liabilities   rate assets   liability   rate liability     Total 
                                   GBP'000       GBP'000     GBP'000          GBP'000   GBP'000 
----------------------------  ------------  ------------  ----------  ---------------  -------- 
As at 31 March 2018 
----------------------------  ------------  ------------  ----------  ---------------  -------- 
Trade and other receivables          2,549             -           -                -     2,549 
----------------------------  ------------  ------------  ----------  ---------------  -------- 
Cash and cash equivalents                -        19,033           -                -    19,033 
----------------------------  ------------  ------------  ----------  ---------------  -------- 
Trade and other payables           (3,010)             -           -                -   (3,010) 
----------------------------  ------------  ------------  ----------  ---------------  -------- 
Interest rate swaps                      -             -       (181)                -     (181) 
----------------------------  ------------  ------------  ----------  ---------------  -------- 
Bank borrowings                          -             -    (70,119)         (29,724)  (99,843) 
----------------------------  ------------  ------------  ----------  ---------------  -------- 
Obligation under finance 
 leases                                  -             -     (1,588)                -   (1,588) 
----------------------------  ------------  ------------  ----------  ---------------  -------- 
                                     (461)        19,033    (71,888)         (29,724)  (83,040) 
----------------------------  ------------  ------------  ----------  ---------------  -------- 
 
 
                                  Nil rate 
                                assets and      Floating  Fixed rate         Floating 
                               liabilities   rate assets   liability   rate liability     Total 
                                   GBP'000       GBP'000     GBP'000          GBP'000   GBP'000 
----------------------------  ------------  ------------  ----------  ---------------  -------- 
As at 31 March 2017 
----------------------------  ------------  ------------  ----------  ---------------  -------- 
Trade and other receivables          1,012             -           -                -     1,012 
----------------------------  ------------  ------------  ----------  ---------------  -------- 
Cash and cash equivalents                -        11,181           -                -    11,181 
----------------------------  ------------  ------------  ----------  ---------------  -------- 
Trade and other payables           (1,894)             -           -                -   (1,894) 
----------------------------  ------------  ------------  ----------  ---------------  -------- 
Interest rate swaps                      -             -           -                -         - 
----------------------------  ------------  ------------  ----------  ---------------  -------- 
Bank borrowings                          -             -    (25,032)         (52,762)  (77,794) 
----------------------------  ------------  ------------  ----------  ---------------  -------- 
Obligation under finance 
 leases                                  -             -     (1,950)                -   (1,950) 
----------------------------  ------------  ------------  ----------  ---------------  -------- 
                                     (882)        11,181    (26,982)         (52,762)  (69,445) 
----------------------------  ------------  ------------  ----------  ---------------  -------- 
 

The Group's interest rate risk arises from borrowings issued at floating interest rates (see note 17). The Group's interest rate risk is reviewed throughout the year at board meetings by the Board. The Group manages its exposure to interest rate risk on borrowings through the use of interest rate derivatives (see note 16). Interest rate swaps are used to mitigate the risk of an increase in interest rates but also to allow the Group to benefit from a fall in interest rates. 70% of the Group's interest rate exposure is fixed and the remainder is held on a floating rate. The Group has employed an external adviser when contracting hedging to advise on the structure of the hedging.

The Group is exposed to changes in interest rates as a result of the cash balances that it holds. The cash balances of the Group at the year end were GBP19,033,000 (2017: GBP11,181,000). The income statement would be affected by GBP190,000 (2017: GBP112,000) by a one percentage point change in floating interest rates on a full year basis.

The Group has loans amounting to GBP29,724,000 (2017: GBP53,684,000) which have interest payable at rates linked to the three month Libor interest rates or bank base rates. A 1% increase in the LIBOR or base rate will have the effect of increasing interest payable by GBP297,240 (2017: GBP536,840).

The Group has interest rate swaps with a nominal value of GBP55,722,900 (see note 16). If the LIBOR or base rate was to increase above the fixed contract rate then the Group will benefit from a fair value increase of the interest rate swap. If however, the LIBOR or base rate was to decrease, then the Group would incur a decrease in the fair value of the Interest rate swap.

 
                                            -1%       +1% 
Change in interest rate                 GBP'000   GBP'000 
-------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
(Decrease)/increase in fair value of 
 interest rate swaps                    (2,619)     2,149 
-------------------------------------  --------  -------- 
 

Upward movements in medium and long term interest rates, associated with higher interest rate expectations, increase the value of the Group's interest rate swaps that provide protection against such moves. The converse is true for downward movements in the yield curve.

The Group is therefore relatively sensitive to changes in interest rates. The Directors regularly review its position with regard to interest rates in order to minimise the Group's risk.

Credit risk management

Credit risk refers to the risk that a counter-party will default on its contractual obligations resulting in financial loss to the Group.

The Group has its cash held on deposit with four large banks in the United Kingdom. At 31 March 2018 the cash balances of the Group at the year end were GBP19,033,000 (2017: GBP11,181,000). The concentration of credit risk held with Barclays Bank plc, the largest of these banks, was GBP11,884,000 (2017: GBP7,770,000). Credit risk on liquid funds is limited because the counterparty is a UK bank with a high credit rating assigned by international credit rating agencies.

Credit risk also results from the possibility of a tenant in the Group's property portfolio defaulting on a lease. The largest tenant by contractual income amounts to 5.4% (2017: 6.7%) of the Group's anticipated income. The Directors assess a tenants' credit worthiness prior to granting leases and employ professional firms of property management consultants to manage the portfolio to ensure that tenants debts are collected promptly and the directors in conjunction with the property managers take appropriate actions when payment is not made on time.

The carrying amount of financial assets (excluding cash balances) recorded in the financial statements, net of any allowances for losses, represents the Group's maximum exposure to credit risk without taking account of the value of any collateral obtained. The carrying amount of these assets at 31 March 2018 was GBP2,435,000 (2017: GBP951,000). The details of the provision for impairment are shown in note 13.

Liquidity risk management

The Group's policy is to hold cash and obtain loan facilities at a level sufficient to ensure that the Group has available funds to meet its medium-term capital and funding obligations, including organic growth and acquisition activities, and to meet certain unforeseen obligations and opportunities. The Group holds cash to enable the Group to manage its liquidity risk.

The Group monitors its risk to a shortage of funds using a monthly cash management process. This process considers the maturity of both the Group's financial investments and financial assets (e.g. accounts receivable, other financial assets) and projected cash flows from operations.

The Group's objective is to maintain a balance between continuity of funding and flexibility through the use of multiple sources of funding including bank loans, term loans, loan notes, overdrafts and finance leases.

The table below summarises the maturity profile of the Group's financial liabilities based on contractual undiscounted payments:

 
                   On demand  0-1 years  1 to 2 years  2 to 5 years  > 5 years     Total 
                     GBP'000    GBP'000       GBP'000       GBP'000    GBP'000   GBP'000 
-----------------  ---------  ---------  ------------  ------------  ---------  -------- 
As at 31 March 
 2018 
-----------------  ---------  ---------  ------------  ------------  ---------  -------- 
Interest bearing 
 loans                     -      5,168         4,780        90,294     13,705   113,947 
-----------------  ---------  ---------  ------------  ------------  ---------  -------- 
Finance leases             -         96            96           290      9,819    10,301 
-----------------  ---------  ---------  ------------  ------------  ---------  -------- 
Interest rate 
 swaps                     -          -             -           181          -       181 
-----------------  ---------  ---------  ------------  ------------  ---------  -------- 
Trade and other 
 payables              3,010          -             -             -          -     3,010 
-----------------  ---------  ---------  ------------  ------------  ---------  -------- 
                       3,010      5,264         4,876        90,765     23,524   127,439 
-----------------  ---------  ---------  ------------  ------------  ---------  -------- 
 
                   On demand  0-1 years  1 to 2 years  2 to 5 years  > 5 years     Total 
                     GBP'000    GBP'000       GBP'000       GBP'000    GBP'000   GBP'000 
-----------------  ---------  ---------  ------------  ------------  ---------  -------- 
As at 31 March 
 2017 
-----------------  ---------  ---------  ------------  ------------  ---------  -------- 
Interest bearing 
 loans                     -      4,190         4,293        65,678     14,325    88,486 
-----------------  ---------  ---------  ------------  ------------  ---------  -------- 
Finance leases             -        122           122           366     12,131    12,741 
-----------------  ---------  ---------  ------------  ------------  ---------  -------- 
Trade and other 
 payables              1,894          -             -             -          -     1,894 
-----------------  ---------  ---------  ------------  ------------  ---------  -------- 
                       1,894      4,312         4,415        66,044     26,456   103,121 
-----------------  ---------  ---------  ------------  ------------  ---------  -------- 
 

Glossary

Adjusted EPS: Is Adjusted profit before tax less corporation tax charge (excluding deferred tax movements) divided by the average basic number of shares in the period.

Adjusted profit before tax: Is the IFRS profit before taxation excluding investment property revaluations, gains/losses on disposals, acquisition costs, fair value share-based payments and exceptional items.

Assets under Management (AUM): Is a measure of the total market value of all properties owned by the Group.

Balance sheet gearing: Is the balance sheet net debt divided by IFRS net assets.

Dividend cover: Adjusted EPS divided by dividend per share declared in the period.

EPRA: Is the European Public Real Estate Association.

EPRA cost ratio (including direct vacancy costs): is a proportionally consolidated measure of the ratio of net overheads and operating expenses against gross rental income (with both amounts excluding ground rents payable). Net overheads and operating expenses relate to all administrative and operating expenses, net of any service fees, recharges or other income specifically intended to cover overhead and property expenses.

EPRA cost ratio (excluding direct vacancy costs): is the ratio calculated above, but with direct vacancy costs removed from the net overheads and operating expenses balance.

EPRA diluted EPS: Is EPRA earnings divided by the average diluted number of shares in the period.

EPRA earnings: Is the IFRS profit after taxation excluding investment property revaluations and gains/losses on disposals and changes in fair value of financial derivatives.

EPRA EPS: Is EPRA earnings divided by the average basic number of shares in the period.

EPRA net assets (EPRA NAV): Are the balance sheet net assets excluding the mark to market on effective cash flow hedges and related debt adjustments, deferred taxation on revaluations and diluting for the effect of those shares potentially issuable under employee share schemes.

EPRA NAV per share: Is EPRA NAV divided by the diluted number of shares at the period end.

EPRA NNNAV: is the EPRA NAV adjusted to reflect the fair value of debt and derivatives and to include deferred taxation on revaluations.

EPRA occupancy rate: is the ERV of occupied space divided by ERV of the whole portfolio, excluding developments and residential property.

EPRA topped-up net initial yield: is the current annualised rent, net of costs, topped up for contracted uplifts, where these are not in lieu of rental growth, expressed as a percentage of capital value.

EPRA vacancy rate: is the ERV of vacant space divided by ERV of the whole portfolio, excluding developments and residential property.

Equivalent yield: Is the net weighted average income return a property will produce based upon the timing of the income received. In accordance with usual practice, the equivalent yields (as determined by the external valuers) assume rent received annually in arrears and on values before deducting prospective purchaser's costs.

Estimated rental value (ERV): Is the external valuers' opinion as to the open market rent which, on the date of valuation, could reasonably be expected to be obtained on a new letting or rent review of a property.

IAS/IFRS: Is the International Financial Reporting Standards issued by the International Accounting Standards Board and adopted by the EU.

Interest cover: Is the number of times net interest payable is covered by underlying profit before net interest payable and taxation.

LIBOR: Is the London Interbank Offered Rate, the interest rate charged by one bank to another for lending money.

Like-for-like net rental income: Is the change in net rental income on properties owned throughout the current and previous periods under review. This growth rate includes revenue recognition and lease accounting adjustments but excludes properties held for development in either period, properties with guaranteed rent reviews, asset management determinations and surrender premiums.

Like-for-like valuation: Is the change in the carrying value of properties owned throughout the entire year. This excludes properties acquired during the year and disposed of during the year.

Loan to value (LTV): is the ratio of principal value of gross debt less cash, short term deposits and liquid investments to the aggregate value of properties and investments.

Net Loan to Value (LTV): Is the ratio of gross debt less cash, short-term deposits and liquid investments to the aggregate value of properties and investments.

Net asset value (NAV) per share: Is the equity attributable to owners of the Group divided by the number of Ordinary Shares in issue at the period end.

Net equivalent yield (NEY): Is the weighted average income return (after adding notional purchaser's costs) a property will produce based upon the timing of the income received. In accordance with usual practice, the equivalent yields (as determined by the external valuers) assume rent is received annually in arrears.

Net initial yield (NIY): Is the current annualised rent, net of costs, expressed as a percentage of capital value, after adding notional purchaser's costs.

Net rental income: Is the rental income receivable in the period after payment of net property outgoings. Net rental income will differ from annualised net rents and passing rent due to the effects of income from rent reviews, net property outgoings and accounting adjustments for fixed and minimum contracted rent reviews and lease incentives.

Net reversionary yield (NRY): Is the anticipated yield, which the initial yield will rise to once the rent reaches the estimated rental value.

Passing rent: is the gross rent, less any ground rent payable under head leases.

Tenant (or lease) incentives: Are any incentives offered to occupiers to enter into a lease. Typically the incentive will be an initial rent-free period, or a cash contribution to fit-out or similar costs. Under accounting rules the value of lease incentives given to tenants is amortised through the Income Statement on a straight-line basis to the lease expiry.

Total Accounting Return (TAR): Is the increase or decrease in EPRA NAV per share plus dividends paid, and this can be expressed as a percentage of EPRA NAV per share at the beginning of the period.

Total property return: is calculated as the change in capital value, less any capex incurred, plus net income, expressed as a percentage of capital employed over the period.

Total Shareholder Return (TSR): Is calculated by the growth in capital from purchasing a share in the Company assuming that the dividends are reinvested each time they are paid.

Weighted average debt maturity: Is measured in years when each tranche of Group debt is multiplied by the remaining period to its maturity and the result is divided by total Group debt in issue at the period end.

Weighted average interest rate: is the loan interest per annum at the period end, divided by total debt in issue at the period end.

Weighted average unexpired lease term (WAULT): Is the average lease term remaining to first break, or expiry, across the portfolio weighted by rental income. This is also disclosed assuming all break clauses are exercised at the earliest date, as stated.

This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.

END

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