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| Share Name | Share Symbol | Market | Type | Share ISIN | Share Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regional Reit Limited | LSE:RGL | London | Ordinary Share | GG00BYV2ZQ34 | ORD NPV |
| Price Change | % Change | Share Price | Bid Price | Offer Price | High Price | Low Price | Open Price | Shares Traded | Last Trade | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| -0.30 | -1.40% | 21.10 | 21.00 | 21.40 | 21.55 | 20.05 | 21.55 | 112,684 | 08:19:32 |
| Industry Sector | Turnover | Profit | EPS - Basic | PE Ratio | Market Cap |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Real Estate Investment Trust | 93.32M | -65.16M | -0.1263 | -1.69 | 110.37M |
From Apr 2019 to Apr 2024
TIDMRGL
RNS Number : 7285L
Regional REIT Limited
10 September 2019
10 September 2019
Regional REIT Limited
("Regional REIT", the "Group" or the "Company")
Half Year Results for the Six Months Ended 30 June 2019
Strongly positioned for further growth
Regional REIT Limited (LSE: RGL), the regional real estate investment specialist, focused on building a diverse portfolio of income producing regional UK core and core plus office and industrial property assets, today announces its half year results for the six months ended 30 June 2019.
Financial highlights:
-- Total shareholder return of 40.8% since IPO; representing 9.8% annualised returns for shareholders
-- 17.0% increase in Operating profit before changes on property assets to GBP20.6m (H1 2018: GBP17.6m)
-- Rental income, excluding recoverable service charge income, largely unchanged at GBP29.9m (H1 2018: GBP30.6m) reflecting the lower number of assets held in the portfolio during the period
-- EPRA Earnings, excluding performance fee, increased 1.4% to GBP14.2m (H1 2018: GBP14.0m) -- EPRA adjusted EPS of 3.8p (H1 2018: 3.8p) -- Net LTV maintained within c.40% target, at 39.9%
-- Group weighted average cost of debt reduced to 3.5% (2018: 3.8%) and the weight average debt to maturity extended to 7.8yrs (2018: 6.4yrs); with GBP30.2m of undrawn firepower
-- Cash GBP53.8m (2018: GBP104.8m) following the GBP39.9m ZDP repayment Jan 2019
-- 2.7% increase in total H1 dividend to 3.8p (H1 2018: 3.7p); in line with progressive dividend target of 8.25p per share for FY 2019
Operational highlights - Asset Management Initiatives continue to be executed driving income and capital returns
-- Good level of transactional activity achieved with GBP20.0m (before costs) invested in acquiring Norfolk House, Birmingham and GBP19.7m (net costs) received from further strategic disposals
-- Disposal of Aspect Court, Sheffield for GBP8.8m 24.8% above 31 Dec 2018 valuation, and the sale of Tokenspire Business Park, Beverley for GBP11.1m reflecting a 30.6% uplift to the acquisition price.
-- Group portfolio totalled 149 properties (H1 2018: 151); comprising 1,178 units (H1 2018: 1,294) and servicing 828 tenants (H1 2018: 950)
-- Regional office and industrial property assets represent 92.5% of the Group portfolio by value; 78.2% in office and 14.3% in industrial
-- The WAULT on the portfolio has increased to 5.5 years (H1 2018: 5.3 years)
-- EPRA Occupancy rate remained stable at 87.5% (2018: 89.4%); on an EPRA like for like basis 87.1% (2018: 89.2%)
Post period end
-- Successful equity raise of GBP62.5m, exceeding GBP50.0m target, achieved in July 2019; strengthening corporate foundations and long-term prospects
-- Successful letting of c. GBP1.27m p.a. of space in Nottingham, Chatham, Preston, Lincoln, Leeds, and Manchester
-- Substantial portfolio acquisition made in August 2019. Purchase of six regional office assets for GBP25.9m with a net initial yield of 8.87%
-- 800 Aztec West, Bristol all 73,292 sq. ft. now fully let, with Edvance SAS agreeing a lease for the entire second floor for a period of nine years at a rent of c.GBP224,000pa for previously vacant space
-- Kilmarnock, Ayrshire, GBP2.5m industrial estate acquisition in September, comprising 34,000 sq. ft., 100% occupied, with a NIY 15.2% and 6.7years WAULT
Stephen Inglis, CEO of London & Scottish Property Investment Management Limited, the Asset Manager of Regional REIT Limited commented: "It has been a very active and successful period for the Group as we continue to strengthen our corporate foundations and portfolio composition to take advantage of the considerable and growing opportunities that we are seeing in our markets.
Our strategic approach to intensive asset management of a deliberately diverse portfolio across the UK regions underpins our confidence of being able to maintain sector leading returns for shareholders."
A meeting for investors and analysts will be held at 10.00am (London time, BST) on Tuesday, 10 September 2019 at the offices of Buchanan Communications. If you would like to attend the meeting please contact the Buchanan team on +44 (0) 207 466 5000 or regional@buchanan.uk.com.
The presentation slides for the meeting will shortly be available to download from the Investors section of the Group's website at www.regionalreit.com.
This announcement contains inside information which is disclosed in accordance with the Market Abuse Regulation that came into effect on 3 July 2016.
Enquiries:
Regional REIT Limited Press enquiries through Buchanan Toscafund Asset Management Tel: +44 (0) 20 7845 6100 Investment Manager to the Group Adam Dickinson, Investor Relations, Regional REIT Limited London & Scottish Property Investment Management Tel: +44 (0) 141 248 4155 Asset Manager to the Group Stephen Inglis Buchanan Communications Tel: +44 (0) 20 7466 5000 Financial PR Charles Ryland, Victoria Hayns, Henry Wilson
About Regional REIT
Regional REIT Limited ("Regional REIT" or the "Company") and its subsidiaries (the "Group") is a United Kingdom ("UK") based real estate investment trust that launched in November 2015. It is managed by London & Scottish Property Investment Management Limited ("LSPIM"), the Asset Manager, and Toscafund Asset Management LLP ("Toscafund"), the Investment Manager.
Regional REIT's commercial property portfolio is comprised wholly of income producing UK assets and comprises, predominantly, offices and industrial units located in the regional centres outside of the M25 motorway. The portfolio is highly diversified, with 149 properties, 1,178 units and 828 tenants as at 30 June 2019, with a valuation of GBP721.7m.
Regional REIT pursues its investment objective by investing in, actively managing and disposing of regional core and core plus property assets. It aims to deliver an attractive total return to its Shareholders, targeting greater than 10% per annum, with a strong focus on income supported by additional capital growth prospects.
The Company's shares were admitted to the Official List of the UK's Financial Conduct Authority and to trading on the London Stock Exchange on 6 November 2015. For more information, please visit the Group's website at www.regionalreit.com.
Cautionary Statement
This document has been prepared solely to provide additional information to Shareholders to assess the Group's performance in relation to its operations and growth potential. The document should not be relied upon by any other party or for any other reason. Any forward-looking statements made in this document are done so by the Directors in good faith based on the information available to them up to the time of their approval of this document. However, such statements should be treated with caution due to the inherent uncertainties, including both economic and business risk factors, underlying any such forward-looking information.
LEI: 549300D8G4NKLRIKBX73
Regional REIT Limited
Regional REIT Limited (the "Company") and its subsidiaries(1) (together the "Group") is a UK-listed real estate investment trust ("REIT"), which pursues its investment objective by investing in, actively managing and disposing of regional Core Property and Core Plus Property assets. The commercial property portfolio is comprised wholly of UK assets and comprises, predominantly, offices and industrial units located in the regional centres outside of the M25 motorway.
(1) Regional REIT Limited is the parent Company of a number of subsidiaries which together comprise a group within the definition of The Companies (Guernsey) Law 2008, as amended (the "Law") and the International Financial Reporting Standard ("IFRS") 10, 'Consolidated Financial Statements', as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board ("IASB") and as adopted by the European Union ("EU"). Unless otherwise stated, the text of this Half-Yearly Report does not distinguish between the activities of the Company and those of its subsidiaries.
HIGHLIGHTS
As at 30 June 2019
Total Shareholder Return since IPO* 40.8%
* 6 November 2015
EPRA NAV per Share - diluted 114.3p
Dividend per Share 3.8p
CHAIRMAN'S STATEMENT
I am pleased to report that the Company has delivered solid underlying earnings for the six months to 30 June 2019. During the period, the Group generated EPRA earnings, excluding any performance fee, of GBP14.2m (six months to 30 June 2018: GBP14.0m), or 3.8 pence per share ("pps") (six months to 30 June 2018: 3.8pps). We have declared a total dividend for the period of 3.80pps, which represents a 2.7% increase on the prior year.
In the six months to 30 June 2019, the Group acquired one property for an aggregate value of GBP20.0m (before costs) and disposed of properties for an aggregate value of GBP19.7m (net of costs).
The Group undertook one asset acquisition in the period. Norfolk House, located in the centre of Birmingham, was purchased for GBP20.0m, with a net initial yield of 7.9%. The location, coupled with multiple tenants, the largest being HMRC, complement the Group's diversified portfolio approach. Capital expenditure for the period amounted to GBP3.9m.
We continue to intensively asset manage the portfolio, by executing individual asset management initiatives to unlock each property's potential.
During the period, there were two noteworthy disposals, both in June 2019; firstly, the sale of Aspect Court, Sheffield, for GBP8.8m, reflecting a 24.8% uplift against the December 2018 valuation; and secondly, the disposal of Tokenspire Business Park, Beverley, for GBP11.1m, reflecting a 30.6% uplift against the acquisition price.
Net borrowings as at 30 June 2019 amounted to 39.9% of gross investment in properties. During the period, GBP39.9m was repaid by the Group to the Zero Dividend Preference Shareholders on 9 January 2019, and two refinancings were completed in June 2019 amounting to GBP121.0m, resulting in the weighted average cost of debt reducing from 3.8% at 31 December 2018 to 3.5% as at 30 June 2019, with weighted average debt to maturity extended to 7.8 years, and 73% of the debt fixed and the balance hedged. The Group continues to target a net borrowings ratio of approximately 40%.
In June 2019, we announced a proposed GBP50.0m equity raise to take advantage of the growing near-term pipeline of opportunities in the investment market, which was oversubscribed and upsized. The results of the equity raise are set out in the Subsequent Events section.
Despite the political and economic backdrop remaining uncertain, we are confident that the actions taken over the preceding years have resulted in a strengthened balance sheet and a diversified portfolio and, which is well positioned to minimise any risks as events unfold.
Market Environment
At GBP20.0bn, investment volumes in the first half of 2019 were 29% below the same period in 2018 and 26% below average. This was attributed to the continued uncertainty caused by the six-month extension to the Brexit deadline, which has now been extended until the end of October 2019. However, there is evidence that the UK regions performed better than London in Q2 2019. Despite investment volumes for single assets in the UK regions falling 25% below the five-year quarterly average at GBP3.7 bn in Q2 2019, London volumes dropped to the lowest level since Q4 2011 at GBP4.0 bn - 37% below the five-year average.
Research from CBRE indicates that regional offices have outperformed in comparison to central London offices, delivering superior returns of 10.8% in the 12 months ending July 2019 in comparison to central London office returns of 4.9% - a trend that has been witnessed over the last three years.
Given the overarching backdrop of the Brexit negotiations, the Board remains supportive of the Asset Manager's vigilant and opportunistic approach to acquisitions and disposals whilst continuing to grow the rental income and responding to the needs of our tenants.
Dividends
Dividend are the major component of the total return. The Company declared an increased total dividend of 3.80p for the period ended 30 June 2019, comprising of two quarterly dividends of 1.90pps each.
In the absence of unforeseen circumstances, it remains the Board's intention to pursue a progressive dividend policy and continue to pay quarterly dividends, with a full year 2019 dividend target of 8.25pps.
Performance
The total return performance since listing on 6 November 2015 has amounted to 40.8%, with an annualised total return of 9.8% to 30 June 2019.
Subsequent Events
Following the announcement on 24 June 2019 regarding a proposed GBP50.0m equity capital raise at 106.5pps, the Company was delighted to announce on 19 July 2019 the successful raise of GBP62.5m, which was in excess of the Group's targeted fundraising size.
On 14 August 2019, the Company announced successful lettings amounting to c.GBP1.27m per annum, which represented a major uplift in income for the Group as all of these nine properties, with the exception of one property, were vacant prior to these lettings.
On 21 August 2019, the Company announced the acquisition of a substantial portfolio of six offices located in Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Chester, Glasgow and Manchester for GBP25.9m, with a net initial yield of 8.87%. This significant acquisition demonstrates clearly that there is no shortage of opportunities for Regional REIT.
Outlook
The outlook for the Group is positive. The deliberately highly-diversified portfolio by region, tenant, and sector underpins our confidence of being able to maintain the quarterly dividends to our Shareholders. Whilst we can expect political and economic turbulence over the short term, we remain convinced of the ability of the long-term asset management initiatives to grow income streams and provide further opportunities for capital value enhancement.
Kevin McGrath
Chairman
9 September 2019
ASSET AND INVESTMENT MANAGERS' REPORT
"This represents another period of robust performance for Regional REIT as we continue to deliver a strong income stream for our Shareholders supported by opportunities for capital growth. In the current market conditions, the UK regions continue to outperform the London commercial property market with superior capital returns over the last three years. Strong occupational demand remains for the UK regional commercial markets while a lack of availability continues to drive rental growth.
Regional REIT has capitalised on these attractive market conditions by announcing an equity fundraise which was completed post-period end. We were pleased that the demand for these new shares was such that the fundraise was over-subscribed at GBP62.5m, a significant endorsement of our investment strategy from existing and new investors.
The continuing success of our intensive asset management initiatives was effectively demonstrated by two major disposals during the period, at a valuation 24.8% above the December 2018 valuation and 30.6% above the acquisition price, respectively. In addition, we continue to witness a robust level of letting activity across the portfolio to a large and diversified register of valued, high-quality corporate tenants". Stephen Inglis, CEO of London & Scottish Property Investment Management, the Asset Manager of Regional REIT Limited.
Highlights from the first six months in 2019
-- Lease renewals during the first six months of 2019 achieved an uplift in gross rental roll of 19.5%.
-- Improved both WAULT (to first break) and WAULT (to expiry) by 2.1%, to 3.5 years and 5.5 years, respectively.
-- Average rent by let sq. ft. increased by 2.6% from GBP9.40 per sq. ft. in December 2018 to GBP9.64 per sq. ft. in June 2019.
-- Completed 39 new lettings in the first six months of 2019, totalling 239,751 sq. ft.; when fully occupied, these will provide a gross rental income of c.GBP1.6m.
-- Capital value per sq. ft. increased by 4.3% from GBP96.64 per sq. ft. in December 2018 to GBP100.82 per sq. ft.
-- Disposals during the first half of 2019 totalled GBP19.7m (net of costs) achieving an average uplift against December 2018 valuation of 12.2%.
The first six months of 2019 have been active for the Group. Our continued success in managing our large and diverse portfolio of assets are demonstrated by delivering positive growth in terms of new lettings, lease renewals and average rent. Going forward, we believe we are well positioned to not only weather the current political and economic uncertainty, but also maximise the growth potential of our assets and capitalise on the strong presence we have in the regional markets. As always, the asset manager will continue to identify value in the market with a focus on income.
Investment Activity in the UK Commercial Property Market
In 2018, investment in UK commercial property reached GBP61.6bn. As a result of investor caution, however, this was followed by a progressive slowdown in the general level of investment activity during the first half of 2019. This was attributed to the continued uncertainty caused by the six-month extension to the Brexit deadline, which has now been extended until the end of October 2019. The most recent data from Lambert Smith Hampton ("LSH")(1) , shows that investment in UK commercial property slowed to the lowest quarterly figure over the last six years at GBP8.8bn in Q2 2019, 22% below Q1 2019 volumes and 40% below the five-year quarterly average. Consequently, this resulted in weak overall investment in the first half of 2019 relative to trend. At GBP20.0bn, volumes in the first half of 2019 were 29% below the same period in 2018 and 26% below average.
(1) Lambert Smith Hampton, Q2 2019, UKIT.
There has been a considerable decrease in investment levels throughout the UK due to investors delaying decision making until the UK's future with Europe becomes clearer. However, there is evidence that the UK regions performed better than London in Q2 2019. Data from LSH shows that despite investment volumes for single assets in the UK regions falling 25% below the five-year quarterly average at GBP3.7 bn in Q2 2019, London volumes dropped to the lowest level since Q4 2011 to GBP4.0bn - 37% below the five-year average. Research from CoStar indicates that, despite investment in most regions remaining below average, the East Midlands and North East bucked this trend with Q2 2019 investment volumes 72% and 16%, respectively, above the five-year quarterly average.
Overseas investment in the UK property markets fell to GBP4.1 bn in Q2 2019, 39% below the level recorded in Q1 2019 and 35% below the same quarter in 2018, according to data from CoStar(2) . Lower level of capital inflows from international investors is in line with the overall reduction in UK commercial property investment. Although 2018 was a record year for capital inflows from South Korea and Singapore, investment from both countries was 70% lower in Q2 2019 than the previous 12 months, which contributed to the sharp decline in Far East investment as well as slowing investment volumes from China and Hong Kong due to restrictions on capital outflows. Conversely, North American investors became net buyers in Q2 2019 with net investment of GBP2bn - the highest figure recorded since Q1 2015.
(2) CoStar, Q2 2019, UK Commercial Property Investment Review.
Research from CBRE indicates that regional offices have outperformed in comparison to central London offices, delivering superior returns of 10.8% in the 12 months ended July 2019 in comparison to central London office returns of 4.9% - a trend that has been witnessed over the last three years.
Occupational Demand in the UK Regional Office Market
Avison Young estimates that take-up of office space across the Big Nine regional office markets(3) in Q2 2019 reached 2.3 million sq. ft., 10% higher than the long-term average, bringing the half year total to 4.3 million sq. ft. - 6% above average(4) . Similarly, Savills research suggests that occupational demand in regional cities has continued against a backdrop of limited supply. Conversely, take-up has declined year-on-year in the London office market in the first half of 2019, with take-up down 30% in the City and 6% in the West End(5) .
(3) Nine regional office markets mentioned by Avison Young include: Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle.
(4) Avison Young, Q2 2019, The Big Nine.
(5) Savills, August 2019, UK Commercial Market in Minutes.
Strong occupational demand came from the technology, media and telecoms sector, accounting for the highest proportion of take-up of all regional offices at 19% in H1 2019. Following this, 17% of total take-up in the first half of 2019 was from serviced office providers, which have taken more space in the top ten regional cities in the first six months of 2019 (over 0.7 million sq. ft.) than they did through all of 2018. Savills predicts that this trend will continue throughout the rest of 2019 and into 2020. Despite the public sector accounting for the highest proportion of tenant demand in 2018, this trend was reversed in the first half of 2019, with Avison Young research showing very low levels of take-up by the public sector as well as finance and professional services sector. According to Cushman & Wakefield, availability for regional office stock decreased to 7.7m sq. ft., the lowest level for 13 years and 35% below the 10-year quarterly average, reflecting a vacancy rate of 7.1%(6) .
(6) Cushman & Wakefield, Q2 2019, United Kingdom Office Market Snapshot.
The most recent research from Cushman & Wakefield suggests that a limited development pipeline will most likely put pressure on supply and vacancy rates. It is estimated that approximately 5.4 million sq. ft. of office space is currently under construction in the Big Nine regional markets, with Manchester, Birmingham and Glasgow accounting for 29%, 21% and 18%, respectively. Although the supply of office stock is likely to increase, 50% of office buildings currently under construction are already pre-let.
Moreover, from the remaining available speculative space, approximately 67% of this space is in two markets only - Manchester and Birmingham. Therefore, there is likely to remain a shortage of office stock, with Cushman & Wakefield highlighting that the vacancy rate for new and refurbished stock in the regions is only 1.3%, which has driven pre-let activity.
Rental Growth in the UK Regional Office Market
A lack of availability in the Big Nine regional markets has put upward pressure on headline rents, which has led to an increase of 4.8% in city centre net effective rents over the last 12 months(7) .
(7) Avison Young, Q2 2019, The Big Nine.
The CBRE Monthly Index shows that rental value growth for the rest of UK office markets in the 12 months ended July 2019 was 1.1%. Colliers International expects regional CBDs to experience further rental growth but anticipate that rent in London markets will remain broadly unchanged(8) .
(8) Colliers International, June 2019, United Kingdom Property Snapshot.
Regional REIT's Office Assets
EPRA occupancy of the Group's regional offices decreased to 85.8% (31 December 2018: 88.2%). A like-for-like comparison of the Group's regional offices' EPRA occupancy, 30 June 2019 versus 31 December 2018, shows that occupancy decreased to 85.2% (31 December 2018: 88.1%). This reduction in occupancy can largely be attributed to two properties becoming vacant: Brennan House, Farnborough (29,707 sq. ft.) and Niceday House, Meridian Park, Andover (34,262 sq. ft.).
-- Brennan House, Farnborough - We were ahead of business plan when we took the opportunity to do a contract-led letting to Fluor Limited. Unfortunately, Fluor exercised a valid break notice as their contract was not extended. Brennan House presents well and we are exploring opportunity to carry out works to upgrade the building. We are actively marketing and have some interest. We are hopeful of an early letting.
-- Niceday House, Andover - As expected, the tenant vacated at expiry. Following this, a dilapidations settlement has been agreed and we are now looking at options for change of use to residential.
WAULT to first break was 3.0 years (31 December 2018: 3.0 years); like-for-like WAULT to first break increased to 3.1 years (31 December 2018: 3.0 years).
Occupier Demand in the UK Industrial Market
Cushman & Wakefield estimate that take-up in H1 2019 totalled 15.9 million sq. ft., 14% lower than the same period in 2018, but marginally higher than the 10-year average of 15.7 million sq. ft.(9) Take-up in Q1 2019 was 39% lower than the same quarter in 2018 at 7.1 million sq. ft. However, demand increased in Q2 2019, reaching 8.8 million sq. ft., up 24% on Q1 2019 figures and 16.7% higher than the same period in 2018. In total, there were 66 lettings(10) that took place in Q2 2019, the highest quarterly figure since Q1 2015, however, the average deal size was lower with fewer large deals taking place.
(9) Cushman & Wakefield, Q2 2019, United Kingdom Industrial Market Snapshot.
(10) Lettings of 50,000 sq. ft. and over.
Occupier demand within the industrial market continues to be highly driven by e-commerce, manufacturing and logistics companies, according to Avison Young(11) . JLL predicts that an increase in online food shopping will boost demand around certain cities as warehouses will be used for fulfilment rather than stores(12) . Research from Cushman & Wakefield suggests that for 2019, there is approximately 6.9 million sq. ft. of space under construction, 17% above the five-year average.
(11) Avison Young, Summer 2019, Economic & Property Market Review.
(12) JLL, 2019, UK Property Predictions.
Industrial Rental Growth Continues
Research by Cushman & Wakefield illustrates that competition for standard industrial space led to rental growth during the first half of 2019. The research compared data from the monthly MSCI Index for June 2019, which showed rental growth of 3.2% for the 12 months to the end of June 2019, indicating that rental growth has slowed in comparison to rental growth previously reported of 4.6% in the 12 months to December 2018. Colliers International estimate that further rental growth in the industrial market during 2019 is likely(13) .
(13) Colliers International, June 2019 United Kingdom Property Snapshot.
The Investment Property Forum UK ("IPF") Consensus Forecast, May 2019, anticipates rental growth in the industrial sector of 3.0% in 2019, providing evidence of sustained growth. Additionally, the IPF UK Consensus Forecast predicts 2.2% and 1.8% average rental growth rates respectively for 2020 and 2021. In comparison, the IPF UK Consensus Forecast predicts that the All Property average annual rental value growth will retract in 2019 by 0.2%.
Regional REIT's Industrial Assets
EPRA occupancy of the Group's industrial sites increased to 96.0% (31 December 2018: 94.5%). A like-for-like comparison of the Group's regional offices' EPRA occupancy, 30 June 2019 versus 31 December 2018, shows that occupancy increased to 96.0% (31 December 2018: 93.0%). WAULT to first break was 5.9 years (31 December 2018: 5.4 years); like-for-like WAULT to first break was unchanged at 5.9 years (31 December 2018: 5.9 years).
Property Portfolio
As at 30 June 2019, the Group's property portfolio was valued at GBP721.7m (30 June 2018: GBP758.7m; 31 December 2018: GBP718.4m), with a gross rental income of GBP57.8m (30 June 2018: GBP61.3m; 31 December 2018: GBP59.7m), and an EPRA occupancy rate of 87.5% (31 December 2018: 89.4%). On a like-for-like basis, 30 June 2019 versus 31 December 2018, EPRA occupancy was 87.1% (31 December 2018: 89.2%).
In the six months to 30 June 2019, the investment property portfolio value increased by GBP3.3m to GBP721.7m, after transactions and capital expenditure, which in the Company's opinion is yet to be fully captured in the valuation. This is despite the retail sector decreasing by circa GBP7.6m.
There were 149 properties (30 June 2018: 151; 31 December 2018: 150), in the portfolio, with 1,178 units (30 June 2018: 1,294; 31 December 2018: 1,192) and 828 tenants (30 June 2018: 950; 31 December 2018: 874). If the portfolio was fully occupied at Cushman & Wakefield's view of market rents, the rental income would be GBP71.4m per annum (30 June 2018: GBP73.4m; 31 December 2018: GBP70.0m).
As at 30 June 2019, the net initial yield on the portfolio was 6.1% (30 June 2018: 6.4%; 31 December 2018: 6.5%), the equivalent yield was 8.3% (30 June 2018: 8.3%; 31 December 2018: 8.2%) and the reversionary yield was 9.0% (30 June 2018: 9.0%; 31 December 2018: 8.8%).
A full list of the Company's properties in its portfolio can be found on the Company's website at https://www.regionalreit.com/portfolio.
Property Portfolio by Sector
Hot Features
Premium
Properties Valuation % by Sq. Occupancy WAULT Gross Average ERV Capital Yield (%)
valuation ft. (EPRA) to rental rent rate
first income
break
============ ====================================
(GBPm) (%) (mil) (%) (yrs) (GBPm) (GBPpsf) (GBPm) (GBPpsf) Net Equivalent Reversionary
initial
============ =========== ========== ========== ====== ========== ====== ======= ========= ======= ========= ======== =========== =============
Office 106 564.7 78.2 4.4 85.8 3.0 45.0 12.69 57.5 129.20 6.1 8.4 9.2
----------- ------ ---------- ------ ------- --------- ------- --------- -------- ----------- -------------
Industrial 17 103.1 14.3 2.2 96.0 5.9 7.4 3.83 8.6 47.50 5.1 7.4 7.7
----------- ------ ---------- ------ ------- --------- ------- --------- -------- ----------- -------------
Retail 23 43.3 6.0 0.5 92.6 4.0 4.6 10.98 4.4 92.97 8.7 8.7 9.0
----------- ------ ---------- ------ ------- --------- ------- --------- -------- ----------- -------------
Other 3 10.7 1.5 0.2 93.3 6.9 0.8 8.29 1.0 70.24 6.8 7.9 5.7
----------- ========== ---------- ------ ---------- ------ ------- --------- ------- --------- -------- ----------- -------------
Total 149 721.7 100.0 7.2 87.5 3.5 57.8 9.64 71.4 100.82 6.1 8.3 9.0
----------- ---------- ------ ---------- ------ ------- --------- ------- --------- -------- ----------- -------------
Properties Valuation % by Sq. Occupancy WAULT Gross Average ERV Capital Yield (%)
valuation ft. (EPRA) to rental rent rate
first income
break
============ ====================================
(GBPm) (%) (%) (%) (yrs) (GBPm) (GBPpsf) (GBPm) (GBPpsf) Net Equivalent Reversionary
initial
============ =========== ========== ========== ====== ========== ====== ======= ========= ======= ========= ======== =========== =============
Scotland 40 126.1 17.5 1.7 85.0 3.3 11.4 8.81 14.5 75.88 6.4 9.5 10.5
----------- ---------- ---------- ------ ---------- ------ ------- --------- ------- --------- -------- ----------- -------------
South East 30 209.7 29.1 1.5 86.3 3.1 15.9 11.46 18.9 135.37 6.4 7.5 8.1
----------- ---------- ---------- ------ ---------- ------ ------- --------- ------- --------- -------- ----------- -------------
North East 20 80.7 11.2 0.9 86.9 3.1 6.7 8.50 8.5 86.71 5.9 9.1 9.7
----------- ---------- ---------- ------ ---------- ------ ------- --------- ------- --------- -------- ----------- -------------
Midlands 31 135.1 18.7 1.4 90.8 3.3 11.2 8.98 12.3 97.20 6.1 7.9 8.4
----------- ---------- ---------- ------ ---------- ------ ------- --------- ------- --------- -------- ----------- -------------
North West 14 78.9 10.9 0.9 85.4 5.4 5.3 7.41 8.4 84.67 5.3 8.7 9.3
----------- ---------- ---------- ------ ---------- ------ ------- --------- ------- --------- -------- ----------- -------------
South West 12 71.8 9.9 0.4 92.8 3.3 5.8 15.15 6.9 159.75 6.1 8.1 8.8
----------- ---------- ---------- ------ ---------- ------ ------- --------- ------- --------- -------- ----------- -------------
Wales 2 19.4 2.7 0.2 86.8 7.6 1.6 8.36 1.8 79.16 5.3 8.1 8.3
============ =========== ========== ========== ====== ========== ====== ======= ========= ======= ========= ======== =========== =============
Total 149 721.7 100.0 7.2 87.5 3.5 57.8 9.64 71.4 100.82 6.1 8.3 9.0
----------- ---------- ---------- ------ ---------- ------ ------- --------- ------- --------- -------- ----------- -------------
Tables may not sum due to rounding.
Top 15 Investments (by market value) as at 30 June 2019
Property Sector Anchor Market % of Lettable EPRA Annualised % of WAULT
tenants value portfolio area occupancy gross gross to
rent rental first
income break
============ ============ ============= =======
(GBPm) (%) (Sq. (%) (GBPm) (yrs)
Ft.)
============ ============ ============= ======= ========== ========== ========== =========== ======= ======
Barclays
Execution
Services
Ltd,
University
Tay House, of
Glasgow Office Glasgow 32.9 4.6 156,853 94.2 2.7 4.7 2.9
Schenker
Ltd,
A Share &
Sons
Ltd,
Vanguard
Juniper Logistics
Park, Services
Basildon Industrial Ltd 29.0 4.0 277,228 100.0 2.0 3.5 1.8
Nuvias (UK &
Ireland)
Ltd,
Alpha
Assembly
Solutions
UK
Ltd,
McCarthy
Genesis & Stone
Business Retirement
Park, Lifestyles
Woking Office Ltd 25.4 3.5 98,359 77.6 1.4 2.4 3.1
Bank of
Scotland
Plc, The
Equitable
Life
Assurance
Society,
Buildings Agria
2 & 3 HBOS Pet
Campus, Insurance
Aylesbury Office Ltd 24.9 3.4 140,791 96.1 2.3 3.9 3.9
Secretary of
Norfolk State for
House, Communities
Smallbrook & Local
Queensway, Government,
Birmingham Office Spark44 Ltd 20.1 2.8 114,982 100.0 1.7 2.9 2.1
Aviva Health
UK Ltd,
National
Westminster
Bank
Plc,
Digital
Wholesale
Hampshire Solutions
Corporate Ltd,
Park, Utilita
Eastleigh Office Energy Ltd 19.7 2.7 85,422 99.6 1.7 2.9 1.2
Edvance SAS,
The
Secretary
800 Aztec of State
West, for
Bristol Office Defence 18.4 2.5 73,292 86.3 1.3 2.3 3.7
One & Two
Newstead
Court,
Annesley Office E.ON UK Plc 16.9 2.3 146,262 100.0 1.4 2.5 4.4
Road 4
Winsford
Industrial Jiffy
Estate, Packaging
Winsford Industrial Ltd 15.7 2.2 246,209 100.0 1.0 1.7 15.3
New College
Manchester
Ltd, Mott
MacDonald
Ltd, Darwin
Portland Loan
Street, Solutions
Manchester Office Ltd 14.5 2.0 54,959 98.0 0.8 1.3 2.0
Columbus
House, TUI Northern
Coventry Office Europe Ltd 13.5 1.9 53,253 100.0 1.4 2.4 4.5
Ceva
Logistics
Ltd, Hill
Rom
Ashby Park, UK Ltd,
Ashby De Alstom
La Zouch Office Power Ltd 13.5 1.9 91,034 100.0 1.1 1.8 1.3
The Scottish
Ministers,
The
Scottish
Sports
Council,
Templeton Heidi
On The Beers Ltd,
Green, Fore
Glasgow Office Digital Ltd 11.1 1.5 141,320 97.2 1.2 2.0 4.1
HSS Hire
Service
Group Ltd,
Please
Hold (UK)
Ltd,
CVS
(Commercial
Valuers &
Surveyors)
Oakland Ltd,
House, Rentsmart
Manchester Office Ltd 10.8 1.5 160,938 86.9 1.1 1.9 4.0
Wren Living
Ltd,
1-4 Steinhoff
Llansamlet UK
Retail Group
Park, Property
Nantyffin Ltd, A
Rd, Share
Swansea Retail & Sons 10.4 1.4 71,615 100.0 1.1 1.9 5.8
============ ============ ============= ======= ========== ========== ========== =========== ======= ======
Total 276.5 38.3 1,912,517 95.0 22.1 38.1 3.7
Top 15 Tenants (by share of rental income) as at 30 June 2019
Tenant Property Sector WAULT Lettable Annualised % of
to area gross Gross
first rent rental
break income
========
(yrs) (Sq. (GBPm)
Ft)
======================= ======================= ======================= ======== ========== =========== ========
Administrative
Barclays Execution and support
Services Ltd Tay House, Glasgow service activities 2.4 78,044 1.6 2.8
Buildings 3 HBOS
Bank of Scotland Campus,
Plc Aylesbury Banking 2.7 92,978 1.5 2.5
High Street, Dumfries
Secretary of State
for Communities
& Local Government Bennett House, Hanley Public sector 2.6 115,879 1.4 2.5
Cromwell House, Lincoln
Norfolk House, Birmingham
Oakland House, Manchester
Electricity,
gas, steam
One & Two Newstead and air conditioning
E.ON UK Plc Court, Annesley supply 4.4 146,262 1.4 2.5
Professional,
scientific
TUI Northern Europe Columbus House, and technical
Ltd Coventry activities 4.5 53,253 1.4 2.4
Calton House,
The Scottish Ministers Edinburgh Public sector 2.0 111,076 1.3 2.3
Quadrant House, Dundee
Templeton On The Green,
Glasgow
The Courtyard, Falkirk
Road 4 Winsford
Jiffy Packaging Industrial
Ltd Estate, Winsford Manufacturing 15.3 246,209 1.0 1.7
----------------------- ----------------------- -------- ---------- ----------- --------
Financial
and insurance
Aviva Health UK Hampshire Corporate activities
Ltd Park, Eastleigh (other) 0.0 42,612 0.9 1.6
----------------------- ----------------------- -------- ---------- ----------- --------
The Royal Bank Cyan Building,
Of Scotland Plc Rotherham Banking 2.1 67,458 0.9 1.5
Professional,
scientific
SPD Development Clearblue Innovation and technical
Co Ltd Centre, Bedford activities 6.3 58,167 0.8 1.4
----------------------- ----------------------- -------- ---------- ----------- --------
The Secretary of Festival Court,
State for Transport Glasgow Public sector 2.5 55,586 0.7 1.2
----------------------- -------- ---------- ----------- --------
St Brendans Court,
Bristol
---------------------- -------- ---------- ----------- --------
Wholesale
A Share & Sons 1-4 Llansamlet Retail and retail
Ltd Park, Swansea trade 4.9 75,791 0.7 1.2
Juniper Park, Basildon
Electricity,
gas, steam
800 Aztec West, and air conditioning
Edvance SAS Bristol supply 3.0 31,549 0.7 1.2
----------------------- ----------------------- -------- ---------- ----------- --------
Lloyds Bank Plc Victory House, Chatham Banking 0.0 48,372 0.7 1.2
----------------------- ----------------------- -------- ---------- ----------- --------
The Secretary of 800 Aztec West,
State for Defence Bristol Public sector 4.5 32,007 0.6 1.1
======================= ======================= ======================= ======== ========== =========== ========
Total 3.8 1,255,243 15.7 27.1
Property Portfolio Sector and Region by Valuation and Income
By Valuation
As at 30 June 2019, 78.2% (30 June 2018: 70.3%; 31 December 2018: 76.1%) of the portfolio by market value was Offices and 14.3% (30 June 2018: 21.0%; 31 December 2018: 15.5%) was Industrial. The balance was made up of Retail 6.0% and Other 1.5% (30 June 2018: 8.7%; 31 December 2018: 8.5%). By UK region, as at 30 June 2019, Scotland represented 17.5% (30 June 2018: 21.9%; 31 December 2018: 18.0%) of the portfolio and England 79.8% (30 June 2018: 75.3%; 31 December 2018: 79.3%); the balance of 2.7% (30 June 2018: 2.8%; 31 December 2018: 2.7%) was in Wales. In England, the largest regions were the South East, the Midlands and the North East.
By Income
As at 30 June 2019, 77.7% (30 June 2018: 70.6%; 31 December 2018: 77.3%) of the portfolio by income was Offices and 12.8% (30 June 2018: 20.0%; 31 December 2018: 13.2%) was Industrial. The balance was made up of Retail 8.0% and Other 1.4% (30 June 2018: 9.5%; 31 December 2018: 9.5%). By UK region, as at 30 June 2019, Scotland represented 19.8% (30 June 2018: 24.6%; 31 December 2018: 20.1%) of the portfolio and England 77.5% (30 June 2018: 72.8%; 31 December 2018: 77.2%); the balance of 2.8% was in Wales (30 June 2018: 2.6%; 31 December 2018: 2.7%). In England, the largest regions were the South East, the Midlands and the North East.
Lease Expiry Profile
The WAULT on the portfolio is 5.5 years (30 June 2018: 5.3 years; 31 December 2018: 5.4 years); WAULT to first break is 3.5 years (30 June 2018: 3.5 years; 31 December 2018: 3.4 years). As at 30 June 2019, 12.0% (30 June 2018: 13.5%; 31 December 2018: 10.1%) of income was from leases which will expire within one year, 5.3% (30 June 2018: 7.0%; 31 December 2018: 4.4%) between one and two years, 35.4% (30 June 2018: 32.8%; 31 December 2018: 34.0%) between two and five years and 47.4% (30 June 2018: 46.6%; 31 December 2018: 51.6%) after five years.
Tenants by Standard Industrial Classification
As at 30 June 2019, 13.0% of income was from tenants in the Administrative and Support Service Activities sector (30 June 2018: 8.7%; 31 December 2018: 10.4%), 12.7% from the Professional, Scientific and Technical activities sector (30 June 2018: 9.8%; 31 December 2018: 11.5%), 10.1% from the Public sector (30 June 2018: 8.5%; 31 December 2018: 9.6%), 9.3% from the Wholesale and Retail Trade sector (30 June 2018: 12.7%; 31 December 2018: 10.1%), and 9.0% from the Information and Communication sector (30 June 2018: 9.1%; 31December 2018: 8.8%). The remaining exposure is broadly spread.
No tenant represents more than 3% of the Group's contracted rent roll as at 30 June 2019, the largest being 2.8%.
Stephen Inglis
London & Scottish Property Investment Management Limited
Asset Manager
9 September 2019
Net Asset Value
Between 1 January 2019 and 30 June 2019, the EPRA Net Asset Value ("NAV") of the Group decreased to GBP426.2m from GBP430.5m as at 31 December 2018, which equates to a decrease in diluted NAV of 1.2pps to 114.3pps (30 June 2018: 113.6pps; 31 December 2018: 115.5pps). This is after the declaration of dividends in the period amounting to 4.4pps.
The EPRA NAV decrease of circa GBP4.2m since 31 December 2018 is predominately a result of the revaluation of investment properties held at 30 June 2019 amounting to a reduction of GBP2.9m, after capital expenditure amounting to GBP3.9m, the amount of which is yet to be fully captured in the valuations.
The investment property portfolio valuation as at 30 June 2019 totalled GBP721.7m (30 June 2018: GBP758.7m; 31 December 2018: GBP718.4m). The minimal increase since the December 2018 year end is a reflection of the GBP20.0m (before costs) acquisition which was offset by the property disposals and the aforementioned downward revaluation.
The below table sets out the acquisitions, disposals and capital expenditure for the respective periods:
Six months Six months Year ended
to 30 June to June 31 December
2019 2018 2018
GBPm GBPm GBPm
Acquisitions
Net (after costs) 20.4 42.1 76.3
Gross (before costs) 20.0 40.1 73.3
Disposals
Net (after costs) 19.7 60.4 149.3
Gross (before costs) 20.3 61.1 152.5
Capital Expenditure
Net (after dilapidations) 3.9 4.4 7.0
Gross (before dilapidations) 5.3 4.6 9.8
The EPRA NAV is reconciled in the table below.
Six months Six months
to 30 June to
2019 30 June
2019
pence per
GBPm share
Opening EPRA NAV 430.5 115.5
Net rental income 26.0 7.0
Administration and other expenses (5.4) (1.5)
Gain on the disposal of investment
properties 1.7 0.4
Change in the fair value of investment
properties (3.0) (0.8)
EPRA NAV after operating profit 449.7 120.6
Net finance expense (6.8) (1.8)
Impairment of goodwill (0.3) (0.1)
EPRA NAV before dividends paid 442.6 118.7
Dividends paid (16.4) (4.4)
Performance fee shares 0.0 0.0
Closing EPRA NAV - diluted 426.2 114.3
------------ ----------------------------------------------------
Table may not sum due to rounding.
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
Operating profit before gains and losses on property assets, and other investments for the six months ended 30 June 2019, amounted to GBP20.6m (six months to 30 June 2018: GBP17.6m). Profit after finance items and before taxation was GBP10.7m (six months to 30 June 2018: GBP45.3m). The six months to 30 June 2019 included a full rent roll for properties held as at 31 December 2018, plus the partial rent roll for properties acquired and disposed of during the period. Realised gain on disposal of investment properties amounted to GBP1.7m (30 June 2018: GBP7.2m). The change in the fair value of investment properties amounted to a loss of GBP2.9m (six months to 30 June 2018: gain of GBP27.9m).
Rental income amounted to GBP29.9m, excluding recoverable service charge income (six months to 30 June 2018: GBP30.6m). The decrease was primarily the result of a reduced investment property portfolio being held over the six-month period.
Currently, more than 80% of the rental income is collected within 28 days of the due date and bad debts in the period were GBP0.4m (six months to 30 June 2018: GBP0.3m).
The EPRA cost ratio, including direct vacancy costs, was 31.3% (six months to 30 June 2018: 41.8%), adjusting for ground rent. The decrease in the cost ratio is ostensibly due to a nil performance fee being accrued in the six months to 30 June 2019 (six months to 30 June 2018: GBP4.2m).
The EPRA cost ratio, excluding direct vacancy costs and the performance fee, was 20.1% (six months to 30 June 2018: 18.2%).
Non-recoverable property costs, excluding recoverable service charge income and other similar costs, amounted to GBP3.9m (six months to 30 June 2018: GBP3.7m), whilst the gross rental income decreased to GBP57.8m (30 June 2018: GBP61.3m).
Finance expense amounted to GBP6.9m (six months to 30 June 2018: GBP7.7m.).
The Company is a member of the Association of Investment Companies ("AIC"). In accordance with the AIC Code of Corporate Governance, the ongoing charges for the period ended 30 June 2019 were 4.4% (30 June 2018: 4.3%). The total return to Shareholders from 6 November 2015 (date of IPO) to 30 June 2019 was 40.8% (30 June 2018: 32.0%), an annualised rate of 9.8% (30 June 2018: 11.0%).
Dividend
In relation to the period from 1 January 2019 to 30 June 2019, the Company declared dividends totalling 3.8pps (six months to 30 June 2018: 3.7pps). Since the end of the period, the Company has declared a dividend for the second quarter of 2019 of 1.9pps.
Announcement Payment Pence Per
Period Covered Date Ex-Date Date Share
1 Jan 2016 to 31
Mar 2016 27 May 2016 9 Jun 2016 8 Jul 2016 1.75
1 Apr 2016 to 30
Jun 2016 1 Sep 2016 8 Sep 2016 7 Oct 2016 1.75
1 Jul 2016 to 30 24 Nov 22 Dec
Sep 2016 17 Nov 2016 2016 2016 1.75
1 Oct 2016 to 31 13 Apr
Dec 2016 23 Feb 2017 2 Mar 2017 2017 2.40
1 Jan 2017 to 31 14 Jul
Mar 2017 25 May 2017 8 Jun 2017 2017 1.80
1 Apr 2017 to 30 13 Oct
Jun 2017 31 Aug 2017 7 Sep 2017 2017 1.80
1 Jul 2017 to 30 23 Nov 22 Dec
Sep 2017 14 Nov 2017 2017 2017 1.80
1 Oct 2017 to 31 12 Apr
Dec 2017 22 Feb 2018 1 Mar 2018 2018 2.45
1 Jan 2018 to 31 24 May 13 Jul
Mar 2018 17 May 2018 2018 2018 1.85
1 Apr 2018 to 30 13 Sep 15 Oct
Jun 2018 31 Aug 2018 2018 2018 1.85
1 Jul 2018 to 30 22 Nov 23 Nov
Sep 2018 15 Nov 2018 2018 2018 1.85
1 Oct 2018 to 31 28 Feb 11 Apr
Dec 2018 21 Feb 2019 2019 2019 2.50
1 Jan 2019 to 31 12 Jul
Mar 2019 23 May 2019 6 Jun 2019 2019 1.90
1 Apr 2019 to 30 15 Oct
Jun 2019 29 Aug 2019 5 Sep 2019 2019 1.90
Debt Financing and Gearing
Borrowings comprise third-party bank debt which is secured over properties owned by the Group and repayable over the next 5-to-10 years, with a weighted average maturity of 7.8 years (30 June 2018: 5.4 years; 31 December 2018: 6.4 years).
The Group's borrowing facilities are with The Royal Bank of Scotland, Scottish Widows Ltd & Aviva Investors Real Estate Finance, Scottish Widows Ltd and Santander UK. During the period, properties have been sold, resulting in debt repayment where debt substitution was not possible. Total bank borrowing as at 30 June 2019 amounted to GBP291.6m (30 June 2018: GBP353.4m; 31 December 2018: GBP290.5m) (before unamortised debt issuance costs). During the period, the GBP39.9m zero dividend preference shares ("ZDP") were fully repaid on 9 January 2019. In addition, a new GBP66.0m 10-year facility was agreed with Santander, refinancing the existing GBP44.0m facility; and a new GBP55.0m five-year facility was agreed with the Royal Bank of Scotland which refinanced the existing GBP26.5m facility with The Royal Bank of Scotland and the GBP19.0m facility with HSBC. The new Royal Bank of Scotland and Santander UK facilities have not been fully drawn as at 30 June 2019.
As at 30 June 2019, the Group's cash and cash equivalent balances amounted to GBP53.8m (30 June 2018: GBP79.5m; 31 December 2018: GBP104.8m), which includes the disposal proceeds.
The Group's net loan-to-value ratio stands at 39.9% (30 June 2018: 41.2%; 31 December 2018: 38.3%) before unamortised costs. The Board will continue to manage the net loan-to-value to the Group's long-term target of 40%, with a maximum limit of 50%.
Debt Profile and Loan-to-Value Ratios as at 30 June 2019
Lender Original Outstanding Maturity Gross Annual Interest
Facility Debt* Date Loan-to-Value** Rate
GBP'000 GBP'000 % %
----------------- ---------- ------------ --------- ----------------- ----------------
2.15 over
The Royal Bank 3mth GBP
of Scotland 55,000 45,919 Jun-2024 42.0 LIBOR
Scottish Widows
Ltd & Aviva
Investors Real
Estate Finance 165,000 165,000 Dec-2027 45.2 3.28 Fixed
Scottish Widows
Ltd 36,000 36,000 Dec-2028 38.5 3.37 Fixed
2.20 over
3mth GBP
Santander UK 65,870 44,711 Jun-2029 27.1 LIBOR
321,870 291,630
Retail Bond 50,000 50,000 Aug-2024 N/A 4.50 Fixed
---------- ------------
Total 371,870 341,630
---------- ------------
* Before unamortised debt issue costs
** Based on Cushman & Wakefield property valuation
Table may not sum due to rounding.
The Managers' continue to monitor the borrowing requirements of the Group. As at 30 June 2019, the Group had substantial headroom against its borrowing covenants.
The net gearing ratio, net debt to ordinary Shareholders' equity (diluted), of the Group was 67.9% as at 30 June 2019 (30 June 2018: 73.7%; 31 December 2018: 64.1%).
Interest cover stands, including amortised costs, at 3.0 times (30 June 2018: 2.3 times; 31 December 2018: 2.3 times), and 3.0 times excluding the ZDPs (30 June 2018: 2.8 times; 31 December 2018: 2.7 times). The ZDPs were fully repaid on 9 January 2019.
Hedging
The Group applies an interest rate hedging strategy that is aligned to the property management strategy and aims to mitigate interest rate volatility on at least 90% of the debt exposure.
Six months Six months Year ended
ended ended
30 Jun 30 Jun 31 Dec
2019 2018 2018
% % %
Borrowings interest rate hedged
(Including ZDP) 108.9 93.3 102.0
Thereof :
Fixed 73.5 68.5 76.5
Swap 17.7 12.4 12.8
Cap 17.7 12.4 12.8
WACD(1) 3.5 3.8 3.8
WACD - Excluding the ZDPs(2) 3.5 3.7 3.5
Table may not sum due to rounding.
(1) Weighted Average Cost of Debt - Weighted Average Effective
Interest Rate including the cost of hedging
(2) Zero Dividend Preference Shares, which were assumed on
24 March 2017 and were fully repaid on 9 January 2019.
Tax
The Group entered the UK REIT regime on 7 November 2016 and all of the Group's UK rental operations became exempt from UK corporation tax from that date. The exemption remains subject to the Group's continuing compliance with the UK REIT rules.
Subsequent Events after the Reporting Period
There were a number of transactions post the half year, which are set out in the Chairman's Statement and note 22.
Adam Dickinson
Toscafund Asset Management LLP
Investment Manager
9 September 2019
DIRECTORS' STATEMENT OF PRINCIPAL RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES
The principal risks and uncertainties the Group faces are summarised below and described in detail on pages 49 to 52 of the 2018 Annual Report, which is available on the Group's website at www.regionalreit.com - Annual Report 2018. These are also set out in the Company's recent prospectus issued on 24 June 2019. The Audit Committee, which assists the Board with its responsibilities for managing risk, considers that there have been no substantial changes to these principal risks.
Strategic risk
Investment decisions could result in lower dividend income and capital returns to our Shareholders.
Valuation risk
The valuation of the Group's portfolio, undertaken by the external valuer, Cushman & Wakefield, could impact the Group's profitability and net assets.
Economic and political risk
The macro-health of the UK economy could impact on borrowing and hedging costs, demand by tenants for suitable properties and the quality of the tenants.
Funding risk
The Group may not be able to secure further debt on acceptable terms, which could impinge upon investment opportunities and the ability to grow the Group. Bank reference rates maybe set to rise accompanying higher inflation.
Tenant risk
Type and concentration of tenants could result in a lower rental income. A higher concentration of lease term maturity and/or break options, could result in a more volatile rental income.
Financial and tax change risk
Changes to UK financial legislation and the tax regime could result in lower rental income.
Operational risk
Business disruption could result in lower rental income.
Accounting, legal and regulatory risk
Changes to accounting, legal and regulatory legislation could affect the Board's ability to achieve the investment objectives and provide favourable returns to our Shareholders.
Environmental and energy efficiency standards
Changes to the environment could impact upon the operations of the Group; changes to the Energy Performance Rating requirement to let or sell a building could impact upon the profitability of the Group.
The United Kingdom's vote to secede from the European Union
Following the majority vote, on 23 June 2016, to end the UK's membership of the European Union, there is a risk that property valuations may be impacted while this period of uncertainty continue to be negotiated.
INTERIM MANAGEMENT REPORT AND DIRECTORS' RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT
Interim Management Report
The important events that have occurred during the period under review, the principal risks and uncertainties and the key factors influencing the financial statements for the remaining six months of the year are set out in the Chairman's Statement and the Asset and Investment Managers' Report.
The principal risks and uncertainties faced by the Group are substantially unchanged since the date of the Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2018 and are summarised above.
The condensed consolidated financial statements for the period from 1 January 2019 to 30 June 2019 are unaudited and do not constitute annual statutory accounts for the purposes of the Law.
Going Concern
The financial statements continue to be prepared on a going concern basis. The Directors have reviewed areas of potential financial risk and cash flow forecasts. No material uncertainties have been detected which would influence the Group's ability to continue as a going concern for a period of not less than 12 months. Accordingly, the Board of Directors continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the condensed consolidated financial statements.
Responsibility Statement of the Directors in respect of the Half-Yearly Report
In accordance with Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rule 4.2.10R we, the Directors of the Company (whose names are listed in full at the end of this report), confirm that to the best of their knowledge:
a) the condensed set of consolidated financial statements has been prepared in accordance with International Accounting Standard (IAS) 34, "Interim Financial Reporting", as adopted by the European Union, as required by Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rule DTR 4.2.4R, and gives a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit of the Group;
b) this Half-Yearly Report includes a fair review, required under DTR 4.2.7R, of the important events that have occurred during the first six months of the financial year, their impact on the condensed set of consolidated financial statements and a description of the principal risks and uncertainties for the remaining six months of the financial year; and
c) this Half-Yearly Report includes a fair review, required under DTR 4.2.8R, of related party transactions that have taken place in the first six months of the current financial year and that have materially affected the financial position and or performance of the Group during that period; and any changes in the related party transaction described in the last Annual Report that could do so.
This Half-Yearly Report was approved and authorised for issue by the Board of Directors on 9 September 2019 and the above responsibility statement was signed on its behalf by Mr Kevin McGrath, Chairman.
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
For the six months ended 30 June 2019
Six months
Six months ended Year
ended 30 June ended
30 June 2018 31 December
2019 (restated) 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
Note GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Continuing Operations
Revenue
Rental income 5 35,411 36,706 74,019
Property costs 6 (9,399) (9,796) (19,644)
Net rental income 26,012 26,910 54,375
Administrative and other expenses 7 (5,430) (9,288) (17,586)
Operating profit before gains
and losses on property assets
and other investments 20,582 17,622 36,789
Gain on disposal of investment
properties 13 1,653 7,226 23,127
Change in fair value of investment
properties 13 (2,883) 27,936 23,881
Amortisation -to- right of
use asset 4 (105) - -
Operating profit 19,247 52,784 83,797
Finance income 8 65 103 268
Finance expense 9 (6,860) (7,659) (15,983)
Impairment of goodwill 14 (279) (279) (557)
Net movement in fair value
of derivative financial instruments 17 (1,436) 318 415
Profit before tax 10,737 45,267 67,940
Taxation 10 (49) (355) (567)
Total comprehensive income for
the period (attributable to the
Parent Company) 10,688 44,912 67,373
-------------- ------------- ----------------------
Total comprehensive income arises from continuing operations.
Earnings per share - basic 11 2.9p 12.0p 18.1p Earnings per share - diluted 11 2.9p 12.0p 18.1p
The notes below are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position
As at 30 June 2019
30 June 30 June 31 December
2019 2018 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
Note GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Assets
Non-current assets
Investment properties 13 721,695 758,653 718,375
Right -to- use assets 4 15,989 - -
Goodwill 14 836 1,393 1,115
Non-current receivables
on tenant loan 1,274 1,493 1,396
739,794 761,539 720,886
Current assets
Trade and other receivables 27,571 20,567 22,163
Cash and cash equivalents 53,834 79,520 104,823
81,405 100,087 126,986
Total assets 821,199 861,626 847,872
------------- ------------- ------------
Liabilities
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables (34,143) (37,468) (30,663)
Deferred income (9,601) (9,817) (11,043)
Taxation liabilities (968) (2,870) (1,763)
Bank and loan borrowings 15 - (400) (400)
Zero dividend preference
shares 16a - (38,515) (39,816)
(44,712) (89,070) (83,685)
Non-current liabilities
Bank and loan borrowings 15 (285,633) (348,265) (285,199)
Retail eligible bonds 16b (49,214) - (49,136)
Derivative financial instruments 17 (1,773) (434) (337)
Lease liabilities 4 (16,068) - -
(352,688) (348,699) (334,672)
------------- ------------- ------------
Total liabilities (397,400) (437,769) (418,357)
Net assets 423,799 423,857 429,515
------------- ------------- ------------
Equity
Stated capital 18 370,316 370,316 370,316
Retained earnings 53,483 53,541 59,199
Total equity attributable to the
Parent Company 423,799 423,857 429,515
Net assets per share - basic 19 113.7p 113.7p 115.2p
Net assets per share - diluted 19 113.7p 112.9p 115.2p
The notes below are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
For the six months ended 30 June 2019
Attributable to owners of
the Parent Company
Stated capital Retained
GBP'000 earnings Total
Note GBP'000 GBP'000
Balance at 1 January 2019 370,316 59,199 429,515
Total comprehensive income - 10,688 10,688
Dividends paid 12 - (16,404) (16,404)
Balance at 30 June 2019 370,316 53,483 423,799
--------------- ---------- ----------
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
For the six months ended 30 June 2018
Attributable to owners of
the Parent Company
Stated capital Retained
GBP'000 earnings Total
Note GBP'000 GBP'000
Balance at 1 January 2018 370,318 22,581 392,899
Total comprehensive income - 44,912 44,912
Share-based payments - 2,079 2,079
Share issue costs 18 (2) - (2)
Dividends paid 12 - (16,031) (16,031)
Balance at 30 June 2018 370,316 53,541 423,857
--------------- ---------- ----------
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
For the year ended 31 December 2018
Attributable to owners of
the Parent Company
Stated capital Retained
GBP'000 earnings Total
Note GBP'000 GBP'000
Balance at 1 January 2018 370,318 22,581 392,899
Total comprehensive income - 67,373 67,373
Share-based payments - (930) (930)
Share issue costs 18 (2) - (2)
Dividends paid 12 - (29,825) (29,825)
--------------- ---------- ----------
Balance at 31 December
2018 370,316 59,199 429,515
--------------- ---------- ----------
The notes below are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
For the six months ended 30 June 2019
Six months Six months Year
ended ended ended
30 June 30 June 31 December
2019 2018 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Cash flows from operating activities
Profit for the period before taxation 10,737 45,267 67,940
- Change in fair value of investment properties 2,883 (27,936) (23,881)
- Change in fair value of financial derivative
instruments 1,436 (318) (415)
- Gain on disposal of investment properties (1,653) (7,226) (23,127)
- Amortisation of right of use assets 105 - -
Impairment of goodwill 279 279 557
Finance income (65) (103) (268)
Finance expense 6,860 7,659 15,983
Share based payments - 2,079 (930)
(Increase)/decrease in trade and other
receivables (4,898) 1,455 (7)
(Decrease)/increase in trade and other
payables and deferred income (5,233) 3,117 2,965
------------- ------------- -------------------
Cash generated from operations 10,451 24,273 38,817
Financial income - 250 250
Finance costs (6,236) (5,901) (12,173)
Taxation paid (844) (131) (1,467)
------------- ------------- -------------------
Net cash flow generated from operating
activities 3,371 18,491 25,427
------------- ------------- -------------------
Investing activities
Purchase of investment
properties (4,273) (43,143) (48,675)
Sale of investment properties 19,703 60,371 149,276
Interest received 76 59 220
Acquisition of subsidiaries, net of cash
acquired (19,769) (2,332) (32,629)
Net cash flow (used in)/generated from
investing activities (4,263) 14,955 68,192
------------- ------------- -------------------
Financing activities
Share issue costs - (1,190) (1,190)
Dividends paid (9,741) (9,240) (29,429)
ZDP Shareholders repaid (39,879) - -
Bank borrowings advanced 20,246 14,959 50,959
Bank borrowings repaid (19,103) (2,632) (101,506)
Bank borrowing costs
paid (1,620) (463) (1,345)
Proceeds from bond issue - - 50,000
Bond issue costs paid - - (925)
------------- ------------- -------------------
Net cash flow (used in)/generated from
financing activities (50,097) 1,434 (33,436)
------------- ------------- -------------------
Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash
equivalents for
the period (50,989) 34,880 60,183
Cash and cash equivalents at the start
of the period 104,823 44,640 44,640
------------- ------------- -------------------
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of
the period 53,834 79,520 104,823
------------- ------------- -------------------
The notes below are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
For the six months ended 30 June 2019
1. Corporate information
The condensed consolidated financial statements of the Group for the six months ended 30 June 2019 comprise the results of the Company and its subsidiaries (together constituting the "Group") and were approved by the Board and authorised for issue on 9 September 2019.
The Company is a company limited by shares incorporated in Guernsey under The Companies (Guernsey) Law, 2008, as amended (the "Law"). The Company's Ordinary Shares are admitted to, and, traded on the Official List of the London Stock Exchange ("LSE").
The Company was incorporated on 22 June 2015 and is registered with the Guernsey Financial Services Commission as a Registered Closed-Ended Collective Investment Scheme pursuant to The Protection of Investors (Bailiwick of Guernsey) Law, 1987, as amended, and the Registered Collective Investment Schemes Rules 2015.
The Company did not begin trading until 6 November 2015 when the shares were admitted to trading on the LSE.
The nature of the Group's operations and its principal activities are set out in the Chairman's Statement.
The address of the registered office is: Mont Crevelt House, Bulwer Avenue, St. Sampson, Guernsey, GY2 4LH.
2. Basis of preparation
The condensed consolidated financial statements for the six months ended 30 June 2019 have been prepared on a going concern basis in accordance with the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules of the FCA and with IAS 34, Interim Financial Reporting, as adopted by the European Union.
The condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis, as modified for the Group's investment properties and certain financial assets and financial liabilities (including derivative instruments) at fair value through profit or loss.
The condensed consolidated interim financial information should be read in conjunction with the Group's audited financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2018, which have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS") as adopted by the EU.
2.1 Comparative period
The comparative financial information presented herein for the six months ended 30 June 2018 and year ended 31 December 2018 do not constitute full statutory accounts within the meaning of the Law. The Group's Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2018 were delivered to the Guernsey Financial Services Commission. The Group's independent Auditor's report on those Accounts was unqualified and did not include references to any matters to which the Auditors drew attention by way of emphasis without qualifying their report.
2.2 Functional and presentation currency
The consolidated financial information is presented in Pounds Sterling which is also the Group's functional currency, and all values are rounded to the nearest thousand (GBP'000s) pounds, except where otherwise indicated.
2.3 Going concern
The Directors have carefully considered areas of potential financial risk and have reviewed cash flow forecasts. No material uncertainties have been detected which would influence the Group's ability to continue as a going concern for a period of no less than 12 months. The Directors have satisfied themselves that the Group has adequate financial resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future.
Accordingly, the Board of Directors continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the condensed consolidated financial statements.
2.4 Business combinations
At the time of acquisition, the Group considers whether each acquisition represents the acquisition of a business or the acquisition of an asset. For an acquisition of a business where an integrated set of activities are acquired in addition to the property, the Group accounts for the acquisition as a business combination under IFRS 3 Business Combinations.
Where such acquisitions are not judged to be the acquisition of a business, they are not treated as business combinations. Rather, the cost to acquire the corporate entity is allocated between the identifiable assets and liabilities of the entity based upon their relative fair values at the acquisition date. Accordingly, no goodwill or additional deferred tax arises.
3. Significant accounting judgements, estimates and assumptions
The preparation of the condensed consolidated financial statements requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent liabilities at the reporting date. However, uncertainty about these assumptions and estimates could result in outcomes that require a material adjustment to the carrying amount of the asset or liability affected in future periods.
3.1. Critical accounting estimates and assumptions
The principal estimates that may be material to the carrying amount of assets and liabilities are as follows:
3.1.1 Valuation of investment property
The fair value of investment property, which has a carrying value at the reporting date of GBP721,695,000 (30 June 2018: GBP758,653,000; 31 December 2018: GBP718,375,000) is determined, by independent property valuation experts, to be the estimated amount for which a property should exchange on the date of the valuation in an arm's length transaction. Properties have been valued on an individual basis. The valuation experts use recognised valuation techniques applying the principles of both IAS 40 Investment Property and IFRS 13 Fair Value Measurement.
The valuations have been prepared in accordance with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors ("RICS") Valuation - Professional Standards (January 2017) (the "Red Book"). Factors reflected include current market conditions, annual rentals, lease lengths and location. The significant methods and assumptions used by valuers in estimating the fair value of investment property are set out in note 13.
3.1.2 Fair valuation of interest rate derivatives
In accordance with IFRS 9 Financial Instruments, the Group values its interest rate derivatives at fair value. The fair values are estimated by the loan counterparty with a revaluation occurring on a quarterly basis. The counterparties will use a number of assumptions in determining the fair values including estimates of future interest rates and therefore future cash flows. The fair value represents the net present value of the difference between the cash flows produced by the contracted rate and the valuation rate. The carrying value of the derivatives at the reporting date was GBP1,773,000 (30 June 2018: GBP434,000; 31 December 2018: GBP337,000).
3.1.3 Estimated impairment of goodwill
The Group tests annually whether goodwill has suffered any impairment. The recoverable amounts of cash generating units have been determined based on value-in-use calculations. These calculations require the use of estimates. The carrying value of the goodwill at the reporting date was GBP836,000 (30 June 2018; GBP1,393,000; 31 December 2018: GBP1,115,000).
3.2. Critical judgements in applying the Group's accounting policies
In the process of applying the Group's accounting policies, management has made the following judgements, which have the most significant effect on the amounts recognised in the condensed consolidated financial statements:
3.2.1 Operating lease contracts - the Group as lessor
The Group has acquired investment properties that are subject to commercial property leases with tenants. The Group has determined, based on an evaluation of the terms and conditions of the arrangements, particularly the duration of the lease terms and minimum lease payments, that it retains all of the significant risks and rewards of ownership of these properties and so accounts for the leases as operating leases.
3.2.2 Performance fee
The Asset Manager and the Investment Manager are each entitled to 50% of the performance fee. The fee is calculated at a rate of 15% of the total shareholder return in excess of the hurdle rate of 8% per annum for the relevant performance period. Total shareholder return for any performance period consists of the sum of any increase or decrease in EPRA NAV per Ordinary Share and the total dividends per Ordinary Share declared in the performance period.
A performance fee is only payable in respect of a performance period where the EPRA NAV per Ordinary Share exceeds the highwater mark which is equal to the greater of the highest year-end EPRA NAV per Ordinary Share in any previous performance period or the placing price (100p per Ordinary Share). The performance fee was calculated initially on 31 December 2018 and will be calculated annually thereafter.
In the period to date, the Group has not met the criteria for a performance fee. However, future circumstances may dictate that a performance fee is ultimately due. Further details are disclosed in note 21.
3.3 Consolidation of entities in which the Group holds less than 50%
Management considered that up until 9 November 2018, the Group had de facto control of View Castle Limited (previously known as Credential Investment Holdings Limited) and its 27 subsidiaries (the "Credential Sub Group") by virtue of the amended and restated Call Option Agreement dated 3 November 2015. Following a restructure of the Credential Sub Group, the majority of properties held within the Credential Sub Group were transferred into two new SPVs with two additional properties to be transferred into these SPVs at a later date. A new call option was entered into dated 9 November 2018 with View Castle Limited and five of its subsidiaries (the "View Castle Group"). As per the previous amended and restated Call Option Agreement, under this new option the Group may acquire any of the properties held by the View Castle Group for a fixed nominal consideration. Despite having no equity holding, the Group controls the View Castle Group as the Option Agreement means that the Group is exposed to, and has rights to, variable returns from its involvement with the View Castle Group, through its power to control.
4. Summary of significant accounting policies
The accounting policies adopted in this report are consistent with those applied in the Group's statutory accounts for the year ended 31 December 2018 and are expected to be consistently applied for the current year ending 31 December 2019. The changes to the condensed consolidated financial statements arising from accounting standards effective for the first time are noted below:
IFRS 16, 'Leases', is effective for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2019. Under IFRS 16, most leased assets are capitalised as "right-to-use assets" by recognising the present value of the lease payments as an asset and a financial liability representing the obligation to make future lease payments.
The Group has a number of operating leases concerning the long-term lease of land associated with its long leasehold investment properties. At 30 June 2019, there was GBP50,120,000 ground rent committed under these leases (31 December 2018: GBP50,614,000) and the annual charge for ground rent for the period for the period ended 30 June 2019 was GBP618,000 (31 December 2018: GBP618,000).
Under IFRS 16, the Group recognises the right-to-use asset in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position and this is amortised over the life of the lease. Amortisation is recognised in the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income. In addition, a financial liability is recognised in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position which is valued at the present value of future lease payments using the Group's incremental borrowing rate. Lease payments (also known as ground rent) which were previously recognised within non-recoverable property costs, now upon payment, reduce the financial liability. The value of the financial liability is revalued at each reporting date and any change to the value of the financial liability is recognised in finance costs.
IFRS 16 has been applied from 1 January 2019 and the modified retrospective approach to measure the right to use asset at the same value as the financial liability has been taken and comparatives have not been restated. At 1 January 2019, a right-to-use asset and the financial liability of GBP16,094,000 and GBP16,094,000 respectively were recognised.
The right-to-use asset and the financial liability were measured at the present value of the remaining lease payments, discounted using the Group's incremental borrowing rate as of 1 January 2019. The incremental borrowing rate used to determine the right to use asset has been determined with consideration for the rate at which the Group would pay to borrow for an asset of similar value to the right of use asset. The Group considers this to be equivalent to the Group's weighted average cost of debt being 3.5%.
At 30 June 2019: the financial liability was adjusted for the interest as the lease liability is carried at fair value. with amounts recognised within finance costs for movements on the finance liability; and the right to use asset was amortised with the amortisation cost charged to the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income. At Under IFRS 16, comparative information is not required to be restated.
The table below illustrates the accounting treatment presented in the financial statements:
Transactions in the Six months Six months Year
Condensed Consolidated
Statement of Comprehensive
Income
ended ended ended
30 June 30 June 31 December
2019 2018 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Ground rent charges included
within non-recoverable property
costs - 343 618
Amortisation of right to 105 - -
use asset
Finance charges 283 - -
------------- ------------- -------------
Total costs 388 343 618
------------- ------------- -------------
Assets and liabilities recognised 30 June 30 June 31 December
within the Condensed Consolidated
Statement of Financial Position
2019 2018 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Right-to-use assets included 15,989 - -
with investment property
Lease liabilities (16,068) - -
------------- ------------- ------------
Net total (79) - -
------------- ------------- ------------
5. Rental income
Six months
Six months ended Year
ended 30 June ended
30 June 2018 31 December
2019 (restated) 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Rental income - freehold
property 25,272 26,915 54,107
Rental income - long leasehold
property 4,668 3,711 7,968
Recoverable service charge
income and other similar
items 5,471 6,080 11,944
-------------- ------------------------------ --------------
Total 35,411 36,706 74,019
-------------- ------------------------------ --------------
As disclosed in the Annual Report, income arising from expenses recharged to tenants is now recognised in net rental income as the Directors consider that the Group acts as principal in this respect. Comparative figures for the six months ended 30 June 2018 have been updated for the grossing up of recoverable service charge income and expenditure.
6. Property costs
Six months
Six months ended Year
ended 30 June ended
30 June 2018 31 December
2019 (restated) 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Operating lease expenses - 343 618
Other property expenses and
irrecoverable costs 3,928 3,373 7,082
Recoverable service charge
income and other similar costs 5,471 6,080 11,944
-------------- ------------- --------------
Total 9,399 9,796 19,644
-------------- ------------- --------------
Non-recoverable property costs represent direct operating expenses which arise on investment properties generating rental income.
As disclosed in the Annual Report, income arising from expenses recharged to tenants is now recognised in net rental income as the Directors consider that the Group acts as principal in this respect. Comparative figures for the six months ended 30 June 2018 have been updated for the grossing up of recoverable service charge income and expenditure.
7. Administrative and other expenses
Six months Six months Year
ended ended ended
30 June 30 June 31 December
2019 2018 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Investment management fees 1,180 1,180 2,405
Property management fees 1,122 1,133 2,264
Performance fees - 4,158 7,046
Asset management fees 1,180 1,181 2,045
Directors' remuneration 125 115 235
Administration fees 320 287 663
Legal and professional fees 930 787 1,714
Marketing and promotion 50 35 87
Other administrative costs
(including bad debts) 485 399 595
Bank charges 38 13 172
Total 5,430 9,288 17,586
------------- ------------- -----------------------------
During the period, the remuneration of the Directors increased by 5%, effective from 1 April 2019.
8. Finance income
Six months Six months Year
ended ended ended
30 June 30 June 31 December
2019 2018 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Interest income 65 59 224
Unwinding of the discount
on financial assets - 44 44
------------- ------------- -------------
Total 65 103 268
------------- ------------- -------------
9. Finance expense
Six months Six months Year
ended ended ended
30 June 30 June 31 December
2019 2018 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Interest payable on bank borrowings 4,820 5,901 11,267
Accrued capital entitlement
on ZDP shares 60 1,203 2,430
Amortisation of loan arrangement
fees 510 482 1,172
Amortisation of ZDP share
acquisition costs 3 73 147
Bond interest 1,106 - 906
Bond issue costs amortised 78 - 61
Lease interest 283 - -
------------- ------------- -------------
Total 6,860 7,659 15,983
------------- ------------- -------------
10. Taxation
Six months Six months Year
ended ended ended
30 June 30 June 31 December
2019 2018 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Corporation tax charge 10 161 1,983
Increase/(decrease) in deferred
tax creditor 39 194 (1,416)
------------- ------------- -------------
Total 49 355 567
------------- ------------- -------------
The Group elected to be treated as a UK REIT with effect from 7 November 2015. The UK REIT rules exempt the profits of the Group's UK property rental business from corporation tax. Gains on UK properties are also exempt from tax, provided that they are not held for trading or sold in the three years after completion of development. The Group is otherwise subject to UK corporation tax.
Income tax and deferred tax above arise on entities which form part of the Group's condensed consolidated accounts but do not form part of the REIT group.
Due to the Group's REIT status and its intention to continue meeting the conditions required to obtain approval in the foreseeable future, no provision has been made for deferred tax on any capital gains or losses arising on the revaluation or disposal of investments held by entities within the REIT group. No deferred tax asset has been recognised in respect of losses carried forward due to unpredictability of future taxable profits.
11. Earnings per share
Earnings per share ("EPS") amounts are calculated by dividing profits for the period attributable to ordinary equity holders of the Company by the weighted average number of Ordinary Shares in issue during the period. As there were dilutive instruments outstanding, both basic and diluted EPS are disclosed below.
Dilutive instruments at 30 June 2018 relate to the partial settlement of the performance fee by the issue of Ordinary Shares. Please see note 21.
The calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share is based on the following:
Six months Six months Year
ended ended ended
30 June 30 June 31 December
2019 2018 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Net profit attributable to Ordinary
Shareholders 10,688 44,912 67,373
Adjustments to remove:
Changes in value of investment
properties 2,883 (27,936) (23,881)
Changes in fair value of interest
rate derivatives
and financial assets 1,436 (362) (459)
(Gain) on disposal of investment
property (1,653) (7,226) (23,127)
Impairment of goodwill 279 279 557
Income tax charged on disposal
profits - - 1,416
Deferred tax charge 39 194 (1,416)
Close-out costs on borrowings
and derivatives 487 - 430
EPRA net profit attributable
to Ordinary Shareholders 14,159 9,861 20,892
Add performance fee - 4,158 7,046
-------------- -------------- -----------------------
Company specific adjusted
earnings 14,159 14,018 27,938
-------------- -------------- -----------------------
Weighted average number of Ordinary
Shares 372,821,136 372,821,136 372,821,136
Dilutive instruments - 2,629,289 -
-------------- -------------- -----------------------
Adjusted weighted average number
of Ordinary Shares 372,821,136 375,450,425 372,821,136
-------------- -------------- -----------------------
Earnings per share - basic 2.9p 12.0p 18.1p
Earnings per share - diluted 2.9p 12.0p 18.1p
EPRA Earnings per share
- basic 3.8p 2.6p 5.6p
EPRA Earnings per share
- diluted 3.8p 2.6p 5.6p
Company specific adjusted earnings
per share:
- basic 3.8p 3.8p 7.5p
- diluted 3.8p 3.8p 7.5p
The Company specific adjusted earnings per share excludes the performance fee.
12. Dividends
Six months Six months Year
ended ended ended
30 June 30 June 31 December
2019 2018 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Dividends
Dividend of 2.50 (2018: 2.45)
pence per Ordinary share for the
period 1 October - 31 December 9,320 9,134 9,134
Dividend of 1.90 (2018: 1.85)
pence per Ordinary share for the
period 1 January - 31 March 7,084 6,897 6,897
Dividend of 1.85 pence per Ordinary
share
for the period 1 April - 30 June - - 6,897
Dividend of 1.85 pence per Ordinary
share
for the period 1 July - 30 September - - 6,897
------------- ------------- -------------
Total 16,404 16,031 29,825
------------- ------------- -------------
On 21 February 2019, the Company announced a dividend of 2.50 pence per share in respect of the period 1 October 2018 to 31 December 2018. The dividend payment was made on 11 April 2019 to Shareholders on the register as at 1 March 2019.
On 23 May 2019, the Company announced a dividend of 1.90 pence per share in respect of the period 1 January 2019 to 31 March 2019. The dividend payment was made on 12 July 2019 to Shareholders on the register as at 7 June 2019.
On 29 August 2019, the Company announced a dividend in respect of the period 1 April 2019 to 30 June 2019 of 1.90 pence per share, which will be paid on 15 October 2019 to Shareholders on the register as at 6 September 2019. These condensed consolidated financial statements do not reflect this dividend.
13. Investment properties
In accordance with International Accounting Standard, IAS 40, 'Investment Property', investment property has been independently valued at fair value by Cushman & Wakefield, a Chartered Surveyor who is an accredited independent valuer with recognised and relevant professional qualifications and with recent experience in the locations and categories of the investment properties being valued. The valuation has been prepared in accordance with the Red Book and incorporates the recommendations of the International Valuation Standards Committee which are consistent with the principles set out in IFRS 13.
The valuation is the ultimate responsibility of the Directors. Accordingly, the critical assumptions used in establishing the independent valuation are reviewed by the Board.
All corporate acquisitions during the period have been treated as properties purchased rather than business combinations.
Long Leasehold
Freehold Property
Movement in investment properties Property GBP'000 Total
for the GBP'000 GBP'000
six months ended 30 June 2019
Valuation at 1 January 2019 625,020 93,355 718,375
Property additions - acquisitions 20,389 - 20,389
Property additions - subsequent
expenditure 3,660 204 3,864
Property disposals (19,703) - (19,703)
Gain/(Loss) on the disposal of investment
properties 1,653 - 1,653
Change in fair value during the
period (3,582) 699 (2,883)
----------- ----------------- ----------
Valuation at 30 June 2019 (unaudited) 627,437 94,258 721,695
----------- ----------------- ----------
Long Leasehold
Freehold Property
Movement in investment properties Property GBP'000 Total
for the GBP'000 GBP'000
six months ended 30 June 2018
Valuation at 1 January 2018 636,600 100,730 737,330
Property additions - acquisitions 42,150 - 42,150
Property additions - subsequent
expenditure 4,185 197 4,382
Property disposals (55,361) (5,010) (60,371)
Gain/(Loss) on the disposal of investment
properties 7,441 (215) 7,226
Change in fair value during the
period 28,104 (168) 27,936
----------- ----------------- ----------
Valuation at 30 June 2018 (unaudited) 663,119 95,534 758,653
----------- ----------------- ----------
Long Leasehold
Movement in investment properties Freehold Property
for the Property GBP'000 Total
year ended 31 December 2018 GBP'000 GBP'000
Valuation at 1 January 2018 636,600 100,730 737,330
Property additions - acquisitions 76,334 - 76,334
Property additions - subsequent
expenditure 6,735 244 6,979
Property disposals (142,505) (6,771) (149,276)
Gain/(Loss) on the disposal of investment
properties 23,856 (729) 23,127
Change in fair value during the
year 24,000 (119) 23,881
----------- ----------------- ----------
Valuation at 31 December 2018 (audited) 625,020 93,355 718,375
----------- ----------------- ----------
The historic cost of the properties was GBP682,011,000 (30 June 2018: GBP627,063,000; 31 December 2018: GBP675,808,000).
The following table provides the fair value measurement hierarchy for investment properties:
Significant Significant
Quoted active observable unobservable
prices inputs inputs
Total (level 1) (level 2) (level 3)
Date of valuation: GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
30 June 2019 721,695 - - 721,695
---------- ---------------- ------------ --------------
30 June 2018 758,653 - - 758,653
---------- ---------------- ------------ --------------
31 December 2018 718,375 - - 718,375
---------- ---------------- ------------ --------------
The hierarchy levels are defined in note 17.
It has been determined that the entire investment properties portfolio should be classified under the level 3 category.
There have been no transfers between levels during the period.
The determination of the fair value of the investment properties held by each consolidated subsidiary requires the use of estimates such as future cash flows from investment properties, which take into consideration lettings, tenants' profiles, future revenue streams, capital values of fixtures and fittings, plant and machinery, any environmental matters and the overall repair and condition of the property, and discount rates applicable to those assets. Future revenue streams comprise contracted rent (passing rent) and estimated rental value after the contract period. In calculating ERV, the potential impact of future lease incentives to be granted to secure new contracts is taken into consideration. All these estimates are based on local market conditions existing at the reporting date.
The current volatility in the global financial system is reflected in commercial real estate markets. In arriving at their estimates of fair values as at 30 June 2019, the valuers used their market knowledge and professional judgement and did not rely solely on historical transactional comparables. With greater volatility in the global financial system, there was a greater degree of uncertainty in estimating the market values of investments than would exist in a more stable market.
Techniques used for valuing investment properties
The following descriptions and definitions relate to valuation techniques and key unobservable inputs made in determining the fair values:
Valuation technique: market comparable method
Under the market comparable method (or market approach), a property fair value is estimated based on comparable transactions in the market.
Observable input: market rental
The rent at which space could be let in the market conditions prevailing at the date of valuation (range: GBP6,000 - GBP3,100,291 per annum (30 June 2018: GBP2,770- GBP3,092,226 per annum; 31 December 2018: GBP1,500 - GBP3,092,195 per annum)).
Observable input: rental growth
The estimated average increase in rent is based on both market estimations and contractual agreements.
Observable Input: net initial yield
The initial net income from a property at the accounting date, expressed as a percentage of the gross purchase price including the costs of purchase (range: 0% - 26.91%; (30 June 2018: 0% - 26.99%; 31 December 2018: 0% to 26.98%)).
As set out within the significant accounting estimates and judgements above, the Group's property portfolio valuation is open to judgement and is inherently subjective by nature, and actual values can only be determined in a sales transaction.
14. Goodwill
30 June 30 June 31 December
2019 2018 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
At start of period 1,115 1,672 1,672
Impairment (279) (279) (557)
------------- ------------- ------------
At end of period 836 1,393 1,115
------------- ------------- ------------
Goodwill arises on the acquisition of subsidiaries and represents the excess of the consideration transferred, the amount of any non-controlling interest in the acquiree and the acquisition-date fair value of any previous equity interest in the acquiree over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired. If the total of consideration is transferred, non-controlling interest recognised and previously held interest measured at fair value is less than the fair value of the net assets of the subsidiary acquired in the case of a bargain purchase, the difference is recognised directly in the Group's Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income.
Goodwill impairment reviews are undertaken annually, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate a potential impairment. The goodwill is compared to the recoverable amount, which is the higher of value in use and the fair value less costs of disposal. Any impairment is recognised immediately as an expense and is not subsequently reversed. The impairment review is based on Group pre-tax cash flow projections of cost savings of the Group as a whole as a single cash generating unit using a discount factor of 4.8%, which is based on borrowing margins currently available. If a reasonable change occurs in a key assumption, the recoverable amount of goodwill would still be expected to be equal to the carrying value. The impairment review was conducted over a five-year period, which is predominately derived from the borrowings facility terms, and will result in a nil terminal value.
15. Bank and loan borrowings
Bank borrowings are secured by charges over individual investment properties held by certain asset-holding subsidiaries. The banks also hold charges over the shares of certain subsidiaries and any intermediary holding companies of those subsidiaries. Any associated fees in arranging the bank borrowings unamortised as at the period end are offset against amounts drawn on the facilities as shown in the table below:
30 June 30 June 31 December
2019 2018 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Bank borrowings drawn at start
of period 290,487 339,074 339,074
Bank borrowings drawn 20,246 16,919 52,919
Bank borrowings repaid (19,103) (2,632) (101,506)
------------- ------------- ------------
Bank borrowings drawn at end
of period 291,630 353,361 290,487
------------- ------------- ------------
Less: unamortised costs at
start of period (4,888) (4,693) (4,693)
Less: loan issue costs incurred
in the period (1,620) (485) (1,367)
Add: loan issue costs amortised
in the period 511 482 1,172
------------- ------------- ------------
At end of period 285,633 348,665 285,599
------------- ------------- ------------
Maturity of bank borrowings
Repayable within 1 year - 400 400
Repayable between 1 to 2 years - 65,400 400
Repayable between 2 to 5 years 45,919 122,561 88,687
Repayable after more than
5 years 245,711 165,000 201,000
Amortised loan issue costs (5,997) (4,696) (4,888)
------------- ------------- ------------
Total 285,633 348,665 285,599
------------- ------------- ------------
The table below lists the Group's borrowings.
Gross
Lender Original Outstanding Maturity Loan to Annual Interest Amortisation
Facility Debt* Date Value** rate
GBP'000 GBP'000 % %
2.15 over
Royal Bank of 3mth GBP
Scotland 55,000 45,919 Jun 2024 42.0 LIBOR MP
Scottish Widows
Ltd. & Aviva
Investors Real
Estate Finance 165,000 165,000 Dec 2027 45.2 3.28 Fixed MP
Scottish Widows
Ltd 36,000 36,000 Dec 2028 38.5 3.37 Fixed none
2.20 over
3mth GBP
Santander UK 65,870 44,711 Jun 2029 27.1 LIBOR MP
----------- --------------
Total bank borrowings 321,870 291,630
----------- --------------
Retail eligible
bond 50,000 50,000 Aug 2024 n/a 4.50 Fixed none
----------- --------------
Total 371,870 341,630
----------- --------------
LIBOR = London Interbank Offered Rate (Sterling)
MP = Mandatory prepayment
* Before unamortised debt issue costs.
** Based upon the Cushman & Wakefield property valuation.
The weighted average term to maturity of the Group's debt at the period end was 7.8 years (30 June 2018: 5.4 years; 31 December 2018: 6.4 years). The weighted average interest rate payable by the Group on its debt portfolio, excluding hedging costs, as at the period end was 3.4% per annum (30 June 2018: 3.7% per annum; 31 December 2018: 3.7% per annum).
The Group has been in compliance with all of the financial covenants of the above facilities as applicable throughout the period covered by these condensed consolidated financial statements. Each facility has distinct covenants which generally include: historic interest cover, projected interest cover, loan-to-value cover and debt service cover. A breach of agreed covenant levels would typically result in an event of default of the respective facility, giving the lender the right, but not the obligation, to declare the loan immediately due and payable. Where a loan is repaid in these circumstances, early repayment fees will apply, which are generally based on percentage of the loan repaid or calculated with reference to the interest income foregone by the lenders as a result of the repayment.
As shown in note 17, the Group uses a combination of interest rate swaps and fixed rate bearing loans to hedge against interest rate risks. The Group's exposure to interest rate volatility is minimal.
16a. Zero dividend preference shares
30 June 30 June 31 December
2019 2018 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
At start of period 39,816 37,239 37,239
Amortisation of acquisition
costs 3 73 147
Accrued capital entitlement 60 1,203 2,430
Repayment (39,879) - -
------------- ------------- ------------
At end of period - 38,515 39,816
------------- ------------- ------------
The Group entity, Regional REIT ZDP PLC, had 30,000,000 zero dividend preference shares ("ZDP shares") in issue, which were listed on the London Stock Exchange (LSE: RGLZ). The ZDP shares were issued at 100 pence per share. The ZDP shares had an entitlement to receive a fixed cash amount on 9 January 2019, being the maturity date, but did not receive any dividends or income distributions. Additional capital accrued to the ZDP shares on a daily basis at a rate equivalent to 6.5% per annum, resulting in a final capital entitlement of 132.9 pence per share, which was paid on 9 January 2019.
16b. Retail eligible bonds
The Company launched GBP50,000,000 4.5% retail eligible bonds with a maturity date of 6 August 2024. The bonds are listed on the LSE ORB platform.
30 June 30 June 31 December
2019 2018 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
At start of period 49,136 - -
Bonds issued in the period - - 50,000
Issue costs - - (925)
Amortisation of issue costs 78 - 61
------------- ------------- ------------
Fair value at end of period 49,214 - 49,136
------------- ------------- ------------
17. Derivative financial instruments
Interest rate caps and swaps are in place to mitigate the interest rate risk that arises as a result of entering into variable rate borrowings.
30 June 30 June 31 December
2019 2018 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Fair value at start of period (337) (752) (752)
Revaluation in the period (1,436) 318 415
------------- ------------- ------------
Fair value at end of period (1,773) (434) (337)
------------- ------------- ------------
The fair value of interest rate caps and swaps represents the net present value of the difference between the cash flows produced by the contracted rate and the current market rate over the life of the instrument
The table below details the hedging and swap notional amounts and rates against the details of the Group's loan facilities.
Outstanding Maturity Notional
Lender Debt Date Annual Interest Amount Rate
rate
GBP'000 GBP'000 %
Royal Bank of 2.15 over 3mth
Scotland 45,919 Jun 2024 GBP LIBOR 55,000 1.26
Scottish Widows
Ltd. & Aviva
Investors Real 165,000 Dec 2027 3.28 Fixed n/a n/a
Estate Finance
Scottish Widows 36,000 Dec 2028 3.37 Fixed n/a n/a
Ltd
2.20 over 3mth
Santander UK 44,711 Jun 2029 GBP LIBOR 66,000 1.80
Total bank borrowings 291,630
--------------
LIBOR = London Interbank Offered Rate (Sterling)
As at 30 June 2019, the swap notional arrangements were GBP60.5m (30 June 2018: GBP35.4m; 31 December 2018: GBP48.6m).
The Group weighted average effective interest rate of 3.5%, (30 June 2018: 3.8%; 31 December 2018: 3.5%) is inclusive of hedging costs and excluding the ZDP shares, which were repaid on 9 January 2019.
The maximum exposure to credit risk at the reporting date is the fair value of the derivative liabilities.
It is the Group's target to hedge at least 90% of the total loan portfolio using fixed-rate facilities or interest rate derivatives. As at the period end date, the total proportion of hedged debt equated to 110.4% (30 June 2018: 90.0%; 31 December 2018: 102.6%), as shown below.
30 June 30 June 31 December
2019 2018 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Total bank borrowings 291,630 353,361 290,487
Notional value of interest
rate caps and swaps 121,000 88,076 97,158
Value of fixed rate debts 201,000 230,000 201,000
------------- ------------- ------------
322,000 318,076 298,158
------------- ------------- ------------
Proportion of hedged debt 110.4% 90.0% 102.6%
------------- ------------- ------------
Fair value hierarchy
The following table provides the fair value measurement hierarchy for interest rate derivatives.
The different levels are defined as follows.
Level 1: Quoted (unadjusted) market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2: Valuation techniques for which the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement is directly or indirectly observable.
Level 3: Valuation techniques for which the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement is unobservable.
For assets and liabilities that are recognised in the condensed consolidated financial statements on a recurring basis, the Group determines whether transfers have occurred between levels in the hierarchy by reassessing categorisation at the end of each reporting period.
Significant Significant
Quoted active observable unobservable
prices inputs inputs
Total (level 1) (level 2) (level
Interest rate derivatives GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000 3)
GBP'000
30 June 2019 (1,773) - (1,773) -
---------- ---------------- ------------ --------------
30 June 2018 (434) - (434) -
---------- ---------------- ------------ --------------
31 December 2018 (337) - (337) -
---------- ---------------- ------------ --------------
The fair values of these contracts are recorded in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position and are determined by forming an expectation that interest rates will exceed strike rates and by discounting these future cash flows at the prevailing market rates as at the period end.
There have been no transfers between levels during the period.
The Group has not adopted hedge accounting.
18. Stated capital
Stated capital represents the consideration received by the Company for the issue of Ordinary shares.
Issued and fully paid shares 30 June 30 June 31 December
at no par value
2019 2018 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
At start of the period 370,316 370,318 370,318
Share issue costs - (2) (2)
------------- ------------- ------------
At end of the period 370,316 370,316 370,316
------------- ------------- ------------
Number of shares in issue Shares Shares Shares
At start of the period 372,821,136 372,821,136 372,821,136
At end of the period 372,821,136 372,821,136 372,821,136
------------- ------------- ------------
19. Net asset value per share (NAV)
Basic NAV per share is calculated by dividing the net assets in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position attributable to ordinary equity holders of the parent by the number of Ordinary Shares in issue at the end of the period. As there are dilutive instruments outstanding, basic and diluted NAV per share are disclosed below.
Dilutive instruments relate to the partial settlement of the performance fee by the future issue of Ordinary Shares.
EPRA NAV is a key performance measure used in the real estate industry which highlights the fair value of net assets on an ongoing long-term basis. Assets and liabilities that are not expected to crystallise in normal circumstances such as the fair value of derivatives and deferred taxes on property valuation surpluses are therefore excluded.
Net asset values have been calculated as follows:
30 June 30 June 31 December
2019 2018 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Net asset value per Condensed
Consolidated Statement
of Financial Position 423,799 423,857 429,515
Adjustment for calculating
EPRA net assets:
Derivative financial instruments 1,773 434 337
Deferred tax liability 673 2,244 634
-------------- ------------- ------------
EPRA net assets 426,245 426,535 430,486
-------------- ------------- ------------
Number of Ordinary
Shares 372,821,136 372,821,136 372,821,136
Dilutive instruments - 2,629,289 -
-------------- ------------- --------------
Adjusted number of Ordinary
Shares 372,821,136 375,450,425 372,821,136
-------------- ------------- --------------
Net asset value per share
- basic 113.7p 113.7p 115.2p
Net asset value per share
- diluted 113.7p 112.9p 115.2p
EPRA net asset value per
share - basic 114.3p 114.4p 115.5p
EPRA net asset value per
share - diluted 114.3p 113.6p 115.5p
20. Segmental information
After a review of the information provided for management purposes, it was determined that the Group had one operating segment and therefore segmental information is not disclosed in these condensed consolidated financial statements.
21. Transactions with related parties
Transactions with the Asset Manager, London & Scottish Property Investment Management Limited and the Property Manager, London & Scottish Property Asset Management Limited
On 4 February 2019, the Group announced the acquisition of Norfolk House, Smallbrook Queensway, Birmingham, for GBP20.0m. The property comprises of 12 retail units amounting to 27,433 sq. ft. and office accommodation of 92,433 sq. ft., with a net income of GBP1.69m. The Group's property manager, London & Scottish Property Asset Management Ltd ("LSPAM"), was the property manager for the vendor and held a 6.7% interest in the property.
Two non-core assets, being some garages/stores at Mingarry Street, Glasgow, and a piece of land at Alderman Road, Glasgow, were valued by independent valuers, Cushman and Wakefield, at GBP40,000 and GBP1,000 respectively. These non-income producing assets were sold to Mr Barrie Clapham at the aforementioned independent valuations. At the time of the transaction, Mr Barrie Clapham was the chairman and a major shareholder of London and Scottish Investments Ltd, which was the Company's asset manager at that time.
Stephen Inglis is a non-executive Director of the Company, as well as being the Chief Executive Officer of London & Scottish Property Investment Management Limited and a director of London & Scottish Property Asset Management Limited. The former company has been contracted to act as the Asset Manager of the Group and the latter as the Property Manager.
In consideration for the provision of services provided, the Asset Manager is entitled in each financial year (or part thereof) to 50% of an annual management fee on a scaled rate of 1.1% of the EPRA NAV, reducing to 0.9% on net assets over GBP500,000,000. The fee shall be payable in cash quarterly in arrears.
In respect of each portfolio property the Asset Manager has procured and shall, with the Company in future, procure that LSPAM is appointed as the Property Manager. A property management fee of 4% per annum is charged by the Property Manager on a quarterly basis: 31 March, 30 June, 30 September and 31 December, based upon the gross rental yield. Gross rental yield means the rents due under the property's lease for the peaceful enjoyment of the property, including any value paid in respect of rental renunciations, but excluding any sums paid in connection with service charges or insurance costs.
The Asset Manager is also entitled to a performance fee. Details of the performance fee are given below.
The following tables show the fees charged in the period and the amount outstanding at the end of the period:
Six months Six months Year
ended ended ended
30 June 30 June 31 December
2019 2018 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Asset management fees charged* 1,180 1,181 2,405
Property management fees
charged* 1,122 1,133 2,264
Performance fee - 2,079 3,523
------------- ------------- -------------
Total 2,302 4,393 8,192
------------- ------------- -------------
30 June 30 June 31 December
2019 2018 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Total fees outstanding* 870 4,220 5,263
------------- ------------- -------------
* Including irrecoverable VAT charged where appropriate
Transactions with the Investment Manager, Toscafund Asset Management LLP
Tim Bee is a non-executive Director of the Company, as well as being Chief Legal Counsel of the Investment Manager.
In consideration for the provision of services provided, the Investment Manager is entitled in each financial year (or part thereof) to 50% of an annual management fee on a scaled rate of 1.1% of the EPRA NAV reducing to 0.9% on net assets over GBP500,000,000. The fee is payable in cash quarterly in arrears.
The Investment Manager is also entitled to a performance fee. Details of the performance fee are given below.
The following tables show the fees charged in the period and the amount outstanding at the end of the period:
Six months Six months Year
ended ended ended
30 June 30 June 31 December
2019 2018 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Investment management fees
charged 1,180 1,180 2,405
Performance fee - 2,079 3,523
------------- ------------- -------------
Total 1,180 3,259 5,928
------------- ------------- -------------
30 June 30 June 31 December
2019 2018 2018
(unaudited) (unaudited) (audited)
GBP'000 GBP'000 GBP'000
Total fees outstanding 590 3,551 5,044
------------- ------------- -------------
Performance fee
The Asset Manager and the Investment Manager are each entitled to 50% of a performance fee. The fee is calculated at a rate of 15% of the total shareholder return in excess of the hurdle rate of 8% per annum for the relevant performance period. Total shareholder return for any financial year consists of the sum of any increase or decrease in EPRA NAV per Ordinary Share and the total dividends per Ordinary Share declared in the financial year. A performance fee is only payable in respect of a performance period where the EPRA NAV per Ordinary Share exceeds the high water mark which is equal to the greater of the highest year-end EPRA NAV Ordinary Share in any previous performance period. The performance fee was calculated initially on 31 December 2018 and annually thereafter.
The performance fee for the first performance period, 6 November 2015 to 31 December 2018, should have been payable 50% in cash and 50% in Ordinary Shares, with the shares locked-in for one year. However, in accordance with the Financial Conduct Authority's Listing Rule 15.4.11, the Company cannot issue shares for cash at a price below the NAV per share without Shareholder's approval. The Company does not have Shareholder approval to do this and any such issue would in any event be dilutive. In view of this, the Management Agreements were amended to clarify that, in this situation, the performance fee would be paid entirely in cash but 50% of that amount would be used to acquire shares in the market on behalf of the Managers within a 20-business day period on an instruction to do so. Accordingly, in respect of the first performance fee, shares were purchased in cash on behalf of the Managers from the date of publication of the preliminary 2018 annual results. These amendments were made to preserve the underlying commercial intention that the Managers should normally receive 50% of the performance fee in shares.
The performance fees for subsequent years are payable 34% in cash and 66% in Ordinary Shares, at the prevailing price per share, with 50% of the shares locked-in for one year and 50% of the shares locked-in for two years.
Based on the EPRA NAV of the Group as at 30 June 2019 and assuming the annual hurdle rate of return is exceeded on average over the remainder of the period to 31 December 2019, the performance fee liability for the period from 1 January 2019 to 30 June 2019 was estimated at GBPnil (launch to 30 June 2018: GBP6,016,000; launch to 31 December 2018: GBP8,905,000). Any fee has been accrued in the condensed consolidated financial statements.
22. Subsequent events
On 23 July 2019, the Company issued 58,685,447 Ordinary Shares at 106.5 pence per share raising proceeds of GBP62.5m. Following this issue and as at the date of this Report, there are 431,506,583 Ordinary Shares in issue, none of which are held in Treasury.
On 14 August 2019, the Company announced successful lettings amounting to c.GBP1.27m per annum, which represented a major uplift in income for the Group as all of these nine properties, with the exception of one property, were vacant prior to these lettings.
On 21 August 2019, the Company announced the acquisition of a portfolio of six offices located in Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Chester, Glasgow and Manchester for GBP25.9m, with a net initial yield of 8.87%.
EPRA PERFORMANCE MEASURES
The Group is a member of the European Public Real Estate Association ("EPRA").
EPRA has developed and defined the following performance measures to give transparency, comparability and relevance of financial reporting across entities which may use different accounting standards. The Group is pleased to disclose the following measures which are calculated in accordance with EPRA guidance:
EPRA Performance Definition EPRA Performance Measure 30 June 31 December
Measure 2019 2018
EPRA EARNINGS Earnings from
operational EPRA Earnings GBP14,159,000 GBP20,892,000
activities.
EPRA Earnings per 3.8p 5.6p
share (basic)
EPRA Earnings per 3.8p 5.6p
share (diluted)
----------------------- -------------------------- ----------------- -----------------
Company Company Specific
Adjusted Earnings Measure Adjusted Earnings GBP14,159,000 GBP27,938,000
Earnings which adds back
the performance EPRA Earnings per 3.8p 7.5p
fee charged share (basic)
in the accounts
EPRA Earnings per 3.8p 7.5p
share (diluted)
----------------------- -------------------------- ----------------- -----------------
EPRA NAV Net Asset Value
adjusted to GBP430,486,000
include properties
and other investment EPRA Net Asset Value GBP426,245,000
interest at 115.5p
fair value and
to exclude certain EPRA NAV per share 114.3p
items not expected (diluted)
to crystallise
in a long-term
investment property
business model.
----------------------- -------------------------- ----------------- -----------------
EPRA NNNAV EPRA NAV adjusted
to include the EPRA NNNAV GBP427,966,000
fair values GBP420,825,000
of (i) financial
instruments, EPAR NNNAV per share 115.1p
(ii) debt and (diluted) 112.9p
(iii) deferred
taxes.
----------------------- -------------------------- ----------------- -----------------
Annualised rental
income based
on the cash
rents passing
at the balance
sheet date,
less non-recoverable
property operating
expenses, divided
by the market
value of the
property with
EPRA NET (estimated)
INITIAL purchasers'
YIELD costs. EPRA Net Initial Yield 6.1% 6.5%
----------------------- -------------------------- ----------------- -----------------
This measure
incorporates
an adjustment
to the ERA NIY
in respect of
the expiration
of rent-free
periods (or
other unexpired
lease incentives
such as discounted
rent periods
EPRA 'TOPPED-UP' and stepped EPRA 'Topped-up' Net
NIY rents) Initial Yield 6.3% 6.6%
----------------------- -------------------------- ----------------- -----------------
Estimated Market
Rental Value
(ERV) of vacancy
space divided
EPRA VACANCY by ERV of the
RATE whole portfolio EPRA Vacancy Rate 12.5% 10.6%
----------------------- -------------------------- ----------------- -----------------
EPRA COSTS Administrative EPRA Costs Ratio 40.1%
RATIO and operating
costs (including EPRA Costs Ratio 31.3% 29.9%
and excluding (excluding direct
costs of direct vacancy costs) 20.1%
vacancy divided
by gross rental
income)
----------------------- -------------------------- ----------------- -----------------
NOTES TO THE CALCULATION OF THE EPRA PERFORMANCE MEASURES
1. EPRA earnings
For calculations, please refer to note 11 to the financial statements.
2. EPRA NAV
30 June 31 December
2019 2018
GBP'000 GBP'000
NAV per the financial statements 423,799 429,515
Effect of dilutive instruments - -
------------ ------------
Diluted NAV 423,799 429,515
Fair value of derivative financial
instruments 1,773 337
Deferred tax liability 673 634
------------ ------------
EPRA NAV 426,245 430,486
------------ ------------
Dilutive number of shares 372,821,136 372,821,136
EPRA NAV per share 114.3p 115.5p
------------ ------------
3. EPRA NNNAV
30 June 31 December
2019 2018
GBP'000 GBP'000
EPRA NAV 426,245 430,486
Fair value of derivative financial
instruments (1,773) (337)
Adjustment for the fair value of debt:
Bank and loan borrowings - -
Zero Dividend Preference Shares - 666
Retail eligible bonds (2,974) (902)
Deferred tax liability (673) (634)
------------ ------------
EPRA NNNAV 420,825 429,279
------------ ------------
Dilutive number of shares 372,821,136 372,821,136
EPRA NAV per share 112.9p 115.1p
------------ ------------
4. EPRA Net Initial Yield
Calculated as the value of investment properties divided by annualised net rents:
30 June 31 December
2019 2018
GBP'000 GBP'000
Investment properties 721,695 718,375
--------- ------------
Annualised cash passing rental income 53,123 54,710
Property outgoings 5,298 (4,650)
--------- ------------
Annualised net rents 47,824 50,060
Add notional rent expiration of rent-free
periods or other lease incentives 1,298 443
--------- ------------
Topped-up net annualised rent 49,122 50,503
--------- ------------
EPRA NIY 6.1% 6.5%
--------- ------------
EPRA topped-up NIY 6.3% 6.6%
--------- ------------
5. EPRA Vacancy Rate
30 June 31 December
2019 2018
GBP'000 GBP'000
Estimated Market Rental Value (ERV) of
vacant space 8,510 7,128
--------- ------------
Estimated Market Rental value (ERV) of
whole portfolio 67,873 67,042
--------- ------------
EPRA Vacancy Rate 12.5% 10.6%
--------- ------------
6. EPRA Cost Ratios
30 June 31 December
2019 2018
GBP'000 GBP'000
Operating costs 9,399 19,644
Less ground rent - (662)
Less recoverable service charge income
and other similar costs (5,471) (11,944)
Add administrative and other expenses 5,430 17,586
--------- ------------
EPRA costs (including direct vacancy
costs) 9,358 24,624
Direct vacancy costs (3,353) (6,240)
--------- ------------
EPRA costs (excluding direct vacancy
costs) 6,005 18,384
--------- ------------
Gross rental income 35,411 74,019
Less recoverable service charge income
and other similar items (5,471) (11,944)
Less ground rent - (661)
--------- ------------
Gross rental income less ground rents 29,940 61,414
--------- ------------
EPRA Cost Ratio (including direct vacancy
costs) 31.3% 40.1%
--------- ------------
EPRA Cost Ratio (excluding direct vacancy
costs) 20.1% 29.9%
--------- ------------
It should be noted that the EPRA Costs in the above calculations include the performance fee cost for the period of GBP7,046,000 (year ended 31 December 2017: GBP1,610,000). The EPRA cost ratio excluding the performance fee from costs would be as follows:
EPRA Cost Ratio (including direct vacancy
costs) 31.3% 28.6%
------ ------
EPRA Cost Ratio (excluding direct vacancy
costs) 20.1% 18.5%
------ ------
The Group has not capitalised any overhead or operating expenses in the accounting years disclosed above.
PROPERTY RELATED CAPITAL EXPENDITURE ANALYSIS
30 June 31 December
2019 2018
GBP'000 GBP'000
Acquisitions 20,389 76,334
Subsequent capital expenditure 3,864 6,979
Total capital expenditure 24,253 83,313
--------- ------------
Acquisitions - this represents the purchase cost of investment properties and associated incidental purchase expenses such as stamp duty land tax, legal fees, agents' fees, valuations and surveys.
Subsequent capital expenditure - this represents capital expenditure which has taken place post the initial acquisition of an investment property.
SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION
Investing in the Company
The Company's shares are listed on the LSE and can be bought or sold through a stockbroker or other financial intermediary. The ticker for the Company is RGL.
Shares are available through saving plans, including Investment Dealing Accounts, ISAs, Junior ISAs and SIPPs, which facilitate both regular monthly investments and lump sum investments in the Company's shares. The Company's shares are also available on various investment platforms.
Share register enquiries
The Company's share register is maintained by Link Asset Services. In the event of queries regarding your holding, please contact the Registrar on 0871 664 0330 or on +44 (0) 371 664 0300 from outside the UK (calls cost 12p per minute plus your phone company's access charge; calls outside the UK will be charged at the applicable international rate). Lines are open 9.00am to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays in England and Wales. You can also email enquiries@linkgroup,co.uk.
Changes of names and/or address must be notified in writing to the Registrar: Link Asset Services, Shareholder Services, The Registry, 34 Beckenham Road, Beckenham, Kent, BR3 4TU
Forthcoming events
October 2019 Payment of Q2 2019 Dividend
November 2019 Q3 2019 Trading Update and Dividend Declaration Announcement
March 2020 Full year 2019 Preliminary Results Announcement
Q4 2019 Dividend Declaration Announcement and Portfolio Valuation
May 2020 Q1 2020 Trading Update and Dividend Declaration Announcement
Annual General Meeting
Note: all future dates are provisional and subject to change.
www.regionalreit.com
ISIN: GG00BYV2ZQ34 SEDOL: BYV2ZQ3 Legal Entity Identifier: 549300D8G4NKLRIKBX73
COMPANY INFORMATION
Directors
Kevin McGrath (Chairman and Independent Non-Executive Director)
William Eason (Senior Independent Non-Executive Director and Management, Engagement and Remuneration Committee Chair)
Frances Daley (Independent Non-Executive Director and Audit Committee Chair)
Daniel Taylor (Independent Non-Executive Director)
Tim Bee (Non-Executive Director)
Stephen Inglis (Non-Executive Director)
Company Secretary
Link Company Matters Limited
Beaufort House
51 New North Road
Exeter
Devon
EX4 4EP
Registered office
Regional REIT Limited
Mont Crevelt House
Bulwer Avenue
St. Sampson
Guernsey
GY2 4LH
Asset Manager
London & Scottish Property Investment Management Limited
Venlaw
349 Bath Street
Glasgow
G2 4AA
Investment Manager
Toscafund Asset Management LLP
7 Floor
90 Long Acre
London
WC2E 9RA
National Storage Mechanism
The Half-Yearly Report will be submitted to the National Storage Mechanism ("NSM") and will be available for inspection at the NSM, situation at www.morningstar.co.uk/uk/nsm.
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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