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UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
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FORM 10-K
[X] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1999
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
COMMISSION FILE NUMBER: 0-29148
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GLOBAL TELESYSTEMS (EUROPE) LIMITED
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
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ENGLAND AND WALES NONE
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification Nos.)
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MINERVA HOUSE
VALPY STREET, READING RG1 1AR
UNITED KINGDOM
(Address of principal executive offices)
+44 118 951 4000
(Registrant's telephone number)
SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(B) OF THE ACT:
None
SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(G) OF THE ACT:
None
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Indicate by check mark whether the registrants (1) have filed all reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) have been subject to such
filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [X] No [ ]
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item
405 of Regulation S-K is not contained in this Form 10-K, and will not be
contained, to the best of the registrants' knowledge, in definitive proxy or
information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K
or any amendment to this Form 10-K. Yes [X] Not Applicable.
The Registrant is a wholly owned subsidiary of Global TeleSystem Group,
Inc. Therefore there is no established market for the Registrant's voting stock.
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DOCUMENT INCORPORATED
ITEM OF FORM 10-K BY REFERENCE
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Part IV, Item 14(c) Exhibits
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GLOBAL TELESYSTEMS (EUROPE) LIMITED
FORM 10-K
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1999
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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PAGE
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PART I
ITEM 1. Business.................................................... 3
ITEM 2. Properties.................................................. 15
ITEM 3. Legal Proceedings........................................... 15
ITEM 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders......... 15
PART II
ITEM 5. Market for the Company's Common Equity and Related
Stockholder Matters....................................... 15
ITEM 6. Selected Financial Data..................................... 16
ITEM 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations................................. 16
ITEM 8. Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary
Information for the Company............................... 23
ITEM 9. Changes In and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting
and Financial Disclosure.................................. 39
PART III
ITEM 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Company............. 39
ITEM 11. Executive Compensation...................................... 40
ITEM 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and
Management................................................ 44
ITEM 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions.............. 44
PART IV
ITEM 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form
8-K....................................................... 45
SIGNATURES............................................................ 47
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PART I
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
HISTORICAL OVERVIEW
Founded in 1992, Global TeleSystems (Europe) Limited ("GTS (Europe) Ltd" or
the "Company"), formerly Esprit Telecom Group plc, is a facilities-based
provider of international and national telecommunications services with network
and sales office infrastructure in Europe. GTS (Europe) Ltd. is a wholly-owned
subsidiary of Global TeleSystems Group, Inc. ("GTS"). Accordingly, the reader of
this Form 10-K may wish to consider reading the Form 10-K report of GTS for the
year ended December 31, 1999.
We offer telecommunications services and products in three areas: (i)
retail telecommunications services for corporate customers for global
destinations either directly, via dedicated leased lines, or indirectly on a
switched basis. This includes enhanced services such as toll free services,
calling cards, and switched data services such as ISDN; (ii) wholesale services,
primarily consisting of long distance traffic termination services for other
telecommunications carriers; and (iii) network management, access and
termination services to service providers, such as calling card companies, and
to resellers.
As of December 1999, we provided telecommunications services in the United
Kingdom, Germany, The Netherlands, France, Spain, Belgium, Sweden, Norway,
Denmark and Italy. We have an operator license in the United Kingdom, Belgium,
The Netherlands, France, Spain and Germany.
STRATEGY
Expand our services portfolio to support the communications and e-business
activities of our customers
We intend to capitalize on the trend of companies seeking to outsource
critical business applications and to integrate Web-based services and products
into their operations by aggressively marketing value-added data, Internet and
e-business enabling services to our existing and future business customers in
addition to the voice services we already offer in our target markets.
We already provide in certain of our target markets a range of data and
Internet services, which we are currently introducing in other countries in
which we operate. Additionally, we are planning to complement our existing
service offerings with new services that will support the e-business initiatives
of our customers. These services may be developed internally or, when
speed-to-market is critical, developed and/or marketed in partnerships.
Leverage our distribution network to further penetrate our existing customer
base and reach new customers
We believe that our highly qualified sales personnel, who understand our
philosophy, services and systems and are well trained in local languages and
telecommunications business practices, provide us with a competitive advantage.
We will continue to invest in training programs to equip our sales personnel
with the skills necessary to market more advanced, value-added services to our
business customers as their telecommunications needs evolve from basic Internet
connectivity to full utilization of the Internet, corporate intranets and
virtual private networks for more advanced, mission-critical applications.
OUR OPERATIONS
Overview
We offer a portfolio of bundled voice, data and Internet services to
small-to-medium sized enterprises, pan-European companies and select residential
end-users in Europe. We expect that our customer base will increasingly include
large companies with complex communications needs.
We seek to capitalize on the increasing demand in Europe for e-business
services and products, in which businesses use the Internet to perform key
business communications processes. We believe that a wide variety of businesses,
both large and small, will increasingly use the Internet to communicate, improve
operating efficiencies and transact commerce in secure, reliable and
cost-effective ways. We currently provide our
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customers with a range of voice and data services, including, in selected
European countries, dial-up and dedicated Internet access and virtual private
network services. As we develop and expand our suite of e-business services to
include, among others, Web-hosting, co-location, messaging and remote access
services, we expect to realize an increasing proportion of our revenue from
businesses that rely on Web-based applications to communicate with customers,
suppliers and employees as well as from new customer segments, such as
e-business application service providers and other Web-centric companies.
Services
We currently offer national and international direct and indirect access
services for voice communications as well as enhanced voice, data and e-business
services. We continue to expand our service offerings to provide our customers
with a full range of tailored telecommunications services.
Voice Services. The largest share of the European business and corporate
retail market is currently international voice and fax transmission services. We
believe that customers have selected us as a provider on the basis of
competitive pricing, network quality, responsive account management and
customized services.
We currently distinguish our retail business customers between direct
access retail customers and indirect access retail customers. Our direct access
customers use our owned or dedicated leased lines, while our indirect access
customers access our services indirectly on a switched basis using the public
telecommunications operator network by means of an access code or a carrier
pre-select arrangement. Our direct access retail customers are generally users
of telecommunication services who generate relatively large amounts of long
distance traffic, with such traffic usually being important to the execution of
their core businesses. We offer retail direct access in the majority of our
existing markets.
Our indirect access retail clients access our services by dialing an access
code, generally either using an auto dialer or via a code programmed directly
into their own switches so that it is transparent to the user or their
applicable carrier through a carrier pre-select arrangement. These customers
generally consist of small and medium-size businesses whose telecommunication
requirements do not warrant the costs associated with the dedicated leased lines
of direct access service. Contracts for both direct and indirect access are
typically for a period of one year.
Enhanced Voice Services. We have also focused on developing new voice
services which address the specific needs of our customer base, including
pre-and post-paid calling cards, national and international toll-free service,
which we target to organizations that require their customers or employees to be
able to simply and cost-effectively call them from other countries. We have
introduced or plan on introducing additional services, including conferencing
services, pre-paid mobile phone services, and virtual private networks. In
several countries, we resell mobile services which we bundle with our existing
voice services and bill on a single integrated bill.
Data, e-Business and Other Services. We currently offer dial-up and
dedicated Internet access and international private leased circuits in selected
target markets. By the end of 2000, we expect to offer these services in all the
countries where we operate. We also plan to complement these services with a
full range of value-added services including co-location, Web-hosting, messaging
and remote access. We will actively market these new services to our existing
customer base and to other European companies that view the Internet as critical
to their expansion plans. Specifically, we plan to extend our data-and
Web-hosting services to enable customers in developing market segments such as
application service providers to distribute applications from our data- and
Web-hosting centers.
Sales and Marketing
Managing directors in each country are responsible for local sales and
marketing activities, local business origination, local regulatory compliance
and licensing requirements, and the relationship with the local
telecommunications companies. The marketing organization in each country is
responsible for executing market initiatives, driving product development,
market research and analysis, and promotion and advertising.
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Direct sales constitute our principal sales method in the majority of our
countries of operation. We support our direct sales effort by telemarketing and
telesales, and complement it to a lesser extent by independent sales
intermediaries and resellers. In certain markets we market some of our services
principally through sales agents. In addition, because we are increasingly
focusing on specific industry groups, such as financial institutions, hotels,
travel service organizations and transport companies, we have assigned
specialists to particular industries. We also have been providing intensive
training to enable our sales force to aggressively market e-business services.
The sales operation in each European country is responsible for originating
and managing business in its respective local market, and is staffed with
employees who understand our philosophy, services and systems and local
languages and telecommunications business practices.
COMPETITION
The ongoing liberalization of the European telecommunications market has
coincided with technological innovation to create an increasingly competitive
market, characterized by still dominant incumbent telecommunications operators
which own and operate fully built networks and infrastructure, as well as an
increasing number of new market entrants.
The markets for managed bandwidth services, local and long distance
telecommunications services, Internet connectivity and related services are
extremely competitive. We anticipate that competition will continue to intensify
as the use of the Internet grows. The tremendous growth and potential market
size of these markets, particularly the e-business services market, has
attracted many new start-ups as well as established businesses from different
industries. We compete primarily on the basis of the pan-European coverage of
our network, the range and quality of services offered, customer service and
price. Competitors may force us to lower our prices or modify our service
offerings to remain competitive.
In each of our current markets, we compete primarily with the national
public telecommunications providers. Other competitors include private
multinational consortia as well as microwave and satellite carriers, mobile
wireless telecommunications providers, cable television companies, utilities and
competing local telecommunications providers and other medium-sized carriers and
resellers in Europe. Some of our competitors have established their own switch
sites and operate their own networks. Competitors in this segment include MCI
WorldCom, COLT, Viatel and RSL, which compete in multiple countries, and
country-specific competitors such as Energis (UK), Arcor (Germany), Telfort (The
Netherlands), Retevision (Spain), Infostrada (Italy) and Cegetel (France). These
providers are generally more entrepreneurial than the public telecommunications
operators and other dominant providers and sometimes bring experience from more
mature markets. Like us, these providers often target small, medium and
large-sized business customers or other market niches. As we roll-out our suite
of services supporting e-business activities of potential customers, we also
expect to enlarge the number of competitors we will be facing. These will
include a number of international companies as well as country-specific
competitors.
LICENSES AND REGULATORY ISSUES
OVERVIEW OF EU TELECOMMUNICATIONS LAW AND POLICY
The EU has progressively liberalized its telecommunications markets over
the past decade. In 1990, the EU adopted two measures: the Open Network
Provision Framework Directive and the Services Directive. These two directives
set forth basic rules for access to public telephone networks and required the
liberalization of the provision of all telecommunications services within the EU
except for certain "reserved services", including voice telephony.
In 1992, the EU adopted the Open Network Provision Leased Line Directive,
which requires the incumbent operators to lease lines to competitors and
end-users at cost-oriented prices, and to establish cost accounting systems for
these products by the end of 1993. Even though most EU member states have
established regulatory frameworks requiring incumbent telecommunications
operators to lease lines to
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competitors and end-users, we believe that, in some EU member states, such lines
are not yet being offered at cost-orientated prices.
In 1996, the EU adopted the Full Competition Directive, which requires EU
member states to permit the provision of telecommunications services, other than
reserved services, over (1) networks established by the provider of the
services, (2) network infrastructure provided by third parties or (3) by means
of sharing of networks from July 1996. Since then, there has been an increasing
supply of such capacity offered at attractive prices from such alternative
suppliers. The Full Competition Directive also established January 1, 1998 as
the date by which all EU member states must remove all remaining restrictions on
the provision of telecommunications services, including voice telephony. A
number of EU member states were granted a delay in implementing the Full
Competition Directive. The only EU member state that is still subject to the
derogation is Greece, whose derogation expires December 31, 2000.
Subject to the foregoing, each EU member state is obliged, under EU law, to
enforce the terms of the Full Competition Directive in such a manner so as to
ensure that its aim and purpose is carried out. Enforceability of the Full
Competition Directive may be challenged at the EU level or at the EU member
state level. In practice, implementation and enforcement of the directive has
been and may also continue to be delayed on a country by country basis.
In April 1997, the EU adopted a directive on a common framework for general
authorizations and individual licenses in the field of telecommunications
services, including networks. Licenses must be awarded through open,
non-discriminatory and transparent procedures and applications are be required
to be dealt with in a timely fashion. The number of licenses may be restricted
only to the extent required to ensure the efficient use of scarce resources,
such as radio frequencies or numbers.
In June 1997, the EU adopted a directive that governs the manner in which
public network operators and service providers interconnect with the incumbent
telecommunications operators' public networks. Among other things, this
directive requires EU member states to ensure that incumbent telecommunications
operators with significant market power should provide interconnection on the
basis of cost-oriented charges.
In February 1998, the EU adopted a directive on the application of the Open
Network Provision to voice telephony and on universal service.
In September 1998, the EU adopted amendments to its June 1997 directive on
interconnection mandating the introduction of number portability and carrier
preselection (or equal access) by incumbent telecommunications operators with
significant market power by January 1, 2000. In December 1999, the EU Commission
granted the UK a deferment of its obligation to introduce carrier preselection
until April 1, 2000.
In October 1999, the EU Commission opened an investigation into the
condition of the provisioning and pricing of leased lines. The aim of the
investigation is to establish whether current telephone company practices
infringe EU competition rules.
We believe that the adoption of the Full Competition Directive and the
various related directives adopted by the EU have resulted in the removal of
most regulatory barriers to the establishment and operation of
telecommunications infrastructure in the countries of the EU where we currently
operate.
However, some EU member states are still in the initial stages of
liberalizing their telecommunications markets and establishing competitive
regulatory structures suitable for a competitive environment. For example, some
EU member states have only recently established a national regulatory authority.
In addition, the implementation, interpretation and enforcement of EU directives
differs significantly among the EU member states. While some EU member states
have embraced the liberalization process and achieved a high level of openness,
others have delayed the full implementation of the directives and maintained
various restrictions on full competition.
Member states of the EU are bound as a matter of international law to
comply with certain multilateral trade rules and regulations. On February 15,
1997, over 60 members of the World Trade Organization committed to open their
telecommunications markets for basic telecommunications services to foreign
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competition and ownership and to adopt regulatory measures designed to protect
foreign telecommunications providers against anticompetitive behavior by
domestic incumbent telecommunications operators. For most parties, these
commitments took effect on February 5, 1998 (including the EU member states). We
believe that this Agreement will contribute to the creation of a more
competitive environment internationally. Specifically, it will result in
downward pressure on call termination charges outside the EU. For a discussion
of the regulatory risks involved, see "Certain Considerations Generally
Applicable to Our Operations -- Risks associated with regulatory
matters -- Delays in obtaining regulatory licenses and approvals could adversely
affect our plans to offer services in our targeted markets."
As a multinational telecommunications company, we are subject to varying
degrees of regulation in each of the jurisdictions in which we provide our
services and deploy our network. Local laws and regulations and the
interpretation of such laws and regulations differ significantly among the
jurisdictions in which we operate. For a discussion of the regulatory risks we
face, see "Certain Considerations Generally Applicable to Our
Operations -- Risks associated with regulatory matters -- Delays in
liberalization of the EU telecommunications market may adversely affect
execution of our business strategy."
LICENSES
We require licenses, authorizations or registrations in almost all
countries to operate our network and provide our service. Licenses,
authorizations or registrations have been obtained in Belgium, France, Germany,
Italy, The Netherlands, Spain, the United Kingdom and the United States. No
license or authorization is required to operate our network in Denmark.
A summary discussion of the regulatory framework in certain countries where
we have developed and are developing our network is set forth below. This
discussion is intended to provide a general outline, rather than a comprehensive
discussion, of the more relevant regulations and current regulatory posture of
the various jurisdictions.
As a result of our acquisition of a number of existing telecommunications
operators, we hold licenses through several of our subsidiary companies. We are
in the process of reviewing our current licenses with a view to achieving the
maximum benefit from these licenses, and reorganization of some of our
operations may result. The following description presents a consolidated view of
our licensing position and does not reflect the position of any single company
within our group.
Belgium. We have been granted licenses to build and operate our network and
provide telephony services throughout Belgium. The licenses are valid for 15
years from the date of issue.
France. The French telecommunications market was fully liberalized in
January 1998. We have licenses to build and operate our network and provide
telephony services in France. In addition, we have been granted one of seven
available one digit carrier selection code by the French regulatory authority.
In exchange for the grant of the one digit code, certain network deployment
obligations have been imposed on us. We are now in the process of building out a
national network in France. The licenses are valid for a 15 year period from the
date of issue.
Germany. The German telecommunications market was fully liberalized in
August 1996. We have licenses to build and operate our network and provide
public telephony and other services in Germany.
Italy. Although in the past Italy has been dilatory in implementing EC
liberalization measures, full liberalization occurred in January 1998. We have
been granted licenses to build and operate our network and provide our services
throughout Italy. The licenses are valid for 15 years from the date of issue.
The Netherlands. The Dutch telecommunications market was fully liberalized
in July 1997. A new Telecommunications Act came into force in December 1998. The
new act confirmed the full liberalization of the Dutch telecommunications
market. We have registered to build and operate our network and provide our
services throughout the Netherlands.
Spain. The Spanish telecommunications market was fully liberalized in
December 1998. We have licenses to build and operate our network and provide
public telephony services in Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao,
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Gerona and Valencia. The licenses are valid for 20 years from the date of issue
and can be renewed for a maximum of 50 years.
United Kingdom. Since the elimination in 1991 of the UK telecommunications
duopoly consisting of British Telecommunications and Mercury, it has been the
stated goal of OFTEL, the UK regulatory authority, to create a competitive
marketplace from which detailed regulation could eventually be withdrawn. The
United Kingdom telecommunications market is liberalized beyond the requirements
of the Full Competition Directive, and most restrictions on competition have
been removed in practice as well as in law. We have been granted licenses to
build and operate our network and provide our services throughout the United
Kingdom. As noted above, the UK has been granted a deferment of its obligation
to introduce carrier preselection until April 1, 2000. OFTEL is currently in
consultation with British Telecommunications and other interested parties on
plans for the sharing costs of a temporary carrier preselection solution pending
development of a permanent solution to be phased in by 2001.
United States. We also hold a license issued by the Federal Communications
Commission under Section 214 of the Communications Act of 1934. Subject to
certain restrictions, the Section 214 authorization permits us to originate and
terminate facilities-based and resold private line and switched
telecommunications services in the United States, including among other things,
reselling international private lines interconnected at both ends to the public
switched telephone network on the United States-United Kingdom route for the
provision of switched services. Under the FCC's rules, such interconnected
private lines may at present be used only for switched traffic that either:
(1) originates in the United Kingdom and terminates in the United
States or vice versa;
(2) originates in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, New
Zealand, Australia, Sweden, The Netherlands, France, Germany, Belgium,
Denmark, Norway, Luxembourg, Austria, Switzerland, Japan, Italy, Ireland
and Hong Kong and terminates in another of those countries, having been
routed through the third country via private lines; or
(3) uses the interconnected international private lines to reach a
switching hub.
This third routing arrangement, termed "switched hubbing," may involve
several configurations:
(1) traffic originates in the United States, is carried via private
lines to the United Kingdom and is routed through a switch to points beyond
the United Kingdom;
(2) traffic originates in the United Kingdom, is carried over private
lines to the United States, and is routed through a switch to points beyond
the United States; or
(3) traffic originates in points beyond the United States or the
United Kingdom and is routed via a United States or United Kingdom switch
to terminate in another country (provided that no traffic originates or
terminates in a country that we are not authorized to serve). With respect
to switched hubbing traffic originated or terminated on the GTS (Europe)
Ltd. Network at switches in EU member states other than the United Kingdom,
domestic laws of such EU member states require that the leased lines be
interconnected with the public switched telephone network at one end only.
In addition, the FCC has not made any pronouncement about the legality of
switched hubbing arrangements where the carrier in the destination country
does not consent to receiving traffic indirectly from the originating
country and does not realize the traffic it receives from the "hub" country
is actually originating from a different country.
We may file additional applications or license extensions authorizing us to
provide our services and deploy and operate our network in anticipation of
service launch in accordance with our plans. With the exception of countries
that are members of the EU and whose laws must comply with EU Directives, many
countries have not liberalized their telecommunications sector. We cannot assure
you that they will do so in a timely manner or at all. In addition, the terms
and conditions of our licenses, authorizations or registrations may limit or
otherwise affect our scope of operations. We cannot assure you that (1) we will
be able to obtain, maintain or renew licenses, authorizations or registrations
to provide the services we currently provide and plan to provide,
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(2) such licenses, authorizations or registrations will be issued or renewed on
terms or with fees that are commercially viable, or (3) the licenses,
authorizations or registrations required in the future can be obtained by us.
The loss of, or failure to obtain, these licenses, authorizations or
registrations or a substantial limitation upon the terms of these licenses,
authorizations or registrations could have a material adverse effect on us.
EMPLOYEES
On December 31, 1999, we had approximately 1,650 employees. We believe our
relations with our employees are good.
CERTAIN CONSIDERATIONS GENERALLY APPLICABLE TO OUR OPERATIONS
COMPETITORS WITH GREATER RESOURCES MAY ADVERSELY AFFECT OUR REVENUES
The markets for local and long distance telecommunications services,
Internet connectivity and related services are extremely competitive. The
ongoing liberalization of the European telecommunications market has coincided
with technological innovation to create an increasingly competitive market,
characterized by still-dominant incumbent telecommunications operators as well
as an increasing number of new market entrants. We anticipate that competition
will continue to intensify as the use of the Internet grows. The tremendous
growth and potential market size of these markets, particularly the IP services
market, has attracted many new start-ups as well as established businesses from
different industries. We compete primarily on the basis of the pan-European
coverage of our network, the range and quality of services offered, customer
service and price. Competitors have forced us, and may continue to force us, to
lower our prices or modify our service offerings to remain competitive. We
cannot assure you that we will be able to effectively market our expanded
service offerings, keep prices at a profitable level or attract and retain
customers. Specifically, prices for domestic and international long distance
calls have decreased substantially over the last few years in most of our
current and potential markets. We anticipate continued pricing reductions by our
competitors, and, accordingly, expect the prices for our bandwidth services and
voice services to continue to decrease for the foreseeable future. Many
competitors have established customer bases and extensive brand name recognition
and have greater financial, management and other resources.
Competition faced by our operations
Competitors of our operations include large established national carriers,
alliances among telecommunications companies, competitors that own equipment and
networks, companies that purchase and resell the services of other carriers,
Internet service providers and other providers of bundled services. We may also
face competition from cable television companies, wireless telephone companies,
microwave carriers and satellite companies. Many of these competitors have
established customer bases and extensive brand name recognition and have greater
financial, management and other resources. Our medium-to-large-sized business
and governmental agency customers may also be reluctant to entrust their
telecommunications needs to what they perceive to be a relatively new and
unproven operator.
In the area of e-business services, our current and prospective competitors
include the public telephone operators, other national, regional and local ISPs,
long distance and local exchange telecommunications companies, cable television,
direct broadcast satellite, wireless communications providers and on-line
service providers. In addition, several major European cable companies have
announced that they are exploring the possibility of offering Internet
connectivity, relying on innovative technologies to upgrade their networks.
Several announcements have also recently been made by other alternative service
companies approaching the Internet connectivity market with various wireless
terrestrial and satellite-based service technologies.
Recently, there have also been several announcements regarding the planned
deployment of broadband services for high speed Internet access by
telecommunications companies, including KPN Qwest B.V. and others. These
services would include new technologies such as digital subscriber lines. These
providers have initially targeted the residential consumer. However, it is
likely that their target markets will expand to encompass business customers,
which is our target market. This expansion could adversely affect the pricing of
our service offerings. Moreover, a number of free ISP services have recently
been introduced and some ISPs
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are offering free personal computers to their subscribers. These trends could
have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results
of operations.
OUR COMPETITIVE POSITION AND ABILITY TO PROVIDE SERVICES MAY BE COMPROMISED BY
OUR DEPENDENCE ON OTHER TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICE PROVIDERS
We need to enter into interconnection agreements with large established
national carriers operating in our target markets. We also rely on local service
providers to provide local access services to enable our customers to link to
our fiber optic network. We may also need to enter into agreements which permit
us to place our equipment at the facilities of such third parties and/or lease
telecommunications transport capacity from such third parties. Failure to enter
into interconnection and other agreements which provide satisfactory pricing and
other terms could affect our ability to compete in a targeted market. In
addition, we have experienced delays in provisioning of local access services to
enable our customers to connect to our network. We continue to experience
provisioning delays that will delay our ability to provide services contracted
for by the customer and therefore defer our recognition of revenue to later
periods.
WE MAY EXPERIENCE A POTENTIAL LACK OF CUSTOMER DEMAND
Although we have been delivering services to a number of customers and have
experienced demand for services in the past, we cannot assure you that customer
demand for services over our network will continue to grow. Further, we cannot
assure you that there will be enough customer demand to realize the anticipated
cash flow, operating efficiencies and cost benefits of our network.
EUROPEAN USE OF THE INTERNET, ELECTRONIC COMMERCE, DATA TRANSMISSION SERVICES,
MULTIMEDIA AND OTHER BANDWIDTH INTENSIVE APPLICATIONS MAY NOT INCREASE AS WE
EXPECT
Our business plan assumes that European use of the Internet, electronic
commerce, data transmission services, multimedia and other bandwidth-intensive
applications will increase substantially in the next few years, in a manner
similar to the increased use in the United States market in the past few years.
If the use of data transmission services, multimedia and bandwidth-intensive
applications in Europe does not increase as we anticipate, demand for many of
our value added services, including managed bandwidth services, Internet
protocol transit services and data- and Web-hosting services, will be lower than
we currently anticipate. Reduced demand for our services will have a negative
effect on our pricing power and our financial condition, including our ability
to make payments to you, as a holder of the debentures.
OUR ACTUAL COSTS AND REVENUES MAY VARY FROM WHAT WE EXPECT THEM TO BE
Operating our business, the cost of expanding our e-business service
offerings, and our revenues; depend upon a variety of factors, including our
ability to:
- Access markets and attract a sufficient number of customers;
- Negotiate favorable contracts with suppliers;
- Provide and develop services to which our customers will subscribe; and
- Effectively manage our billing and information systems.
Our revenues and costs are also dependent upon factors that are not within
our control, including:
- Regulatory changes;
- Changes in technology;
- Increased competition;
- Strikes;
- Weather; and
10
<PAGE> 11
- Performance by third-parties, including our vendors, infrastructure
providers and customers, in connection with the enhancement of our
network.
Due to the uncertainty of these factors, our actual costs and revenues may
vary from what we expect them to be.
WE MAY ENCOUNTER DELAYS IN IMPLEMENTING KEY ELEMENTS OF OUR BUSINESS STRATEGY
Our ability to achieve our strategic objectives will in large part depend
on the successful, timely and cost-effective realization of numerous elements of
our business plan, including:
- Our plan to expand our offering of e-business services;
- The execution of agreements with various parties regarding, among other
things, rights-of-way, lease of dark fiber and development and
maintenance of infrastructure and equipment;
We cannot assure you that we will successfully execute these elements of
our business plan. In addition, any delays in realizing these elements of our
strategy would materially and adversely affect the timely or successful
realization of our business plan.
WE MAY CONTINUE TO HAVE SUBSTANTIAL NET LOSSES INDEFINITELY WHICH MAY MAKE IT
DIFFICULT TO FUND OUR OPERATIONS
We have historically sustained substantial operating and net losses. If we
do not become profitable in the future, the value of our common stock may fall
and we could have difficulty obtaining funds to continue our operations. We
expect to continue incurring significant operating losses during the next
several years while we expand our operations, service offerings and customer
base in our target markets. In particular, we expect to have negative cash flow
for the 2000 fiscal year.
WE MAY NOT IMPLEMENT BILLING AND MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS EFFECTIVELY AND
ON SCHEDULE
We are converting the existing billing systems in the various businesses we
have acquired to a new billing system that we believe will provide the
capability and flexibility to support our anticipated growth. If our new billing
and management information systems are not effectively implemented, our call
details may not be accurately recorded and customer bills may not be generated
promptly and accurately. This would adversely impact on our business since we
would not be able to promptly invoice and collect on customer balances due to
us.
SYSTEM FAILURES OR INTERRUPTIONS IN OUR NETWORK MAY CAUSE LOSS OF CUSTOMERS
Our success depends on the seamless uninterrupted operation of our network
and on the management of traffic volumes and route preferences over our network.
Furthermore, as we continue to expand our network to increase both its capacity
and reach, and as traffic volume continues to increase, we will face increasing
demands and challenges in managing our circuit capacity and traffic management
systems. Our network is vulnerable to damage or cessation of operations from:
- Fire;
- Earthquakes;
- Severe storms;
- Power loss;
- Natural disasters;
- Damage from human error and tampering;
- Software defects;
11
<PAGE> 12
- Capacity limitations;
- Breaches of security;
- Physical break-ins;
- Intentional acts of vandalism;
- Telecommunications failures; and
- Other factors that can cause interruptions in service or reduced capacity
for our customers.
We have designed our network to minimize the risk of such system failure
but we cannot assure that we will not experience failures or shutdowns relating
to individual points of presence or even catastrophic failure of the entire
network. Such significant or prolonged system failures or shutdowns could damage
our reputation and result in the loss of customers.
ALTHOUGH WE HAVE IMPLEMENTED NETWORK SECURITY MEASURES, OUR NETWORK MAY BE
SUSCEPTIBLE TO VIRUSES, BREAK-INS OR DISRUPTIONS
We have implemented many network security measures, such as limiting
physical and network access to our routers. Nonetheless, our network's
infrastructure is potentially vulnerable to computer viruses, break-ins and
similar disruptive problems caused by our customers or other Internet users.
Computer viruses, break-ins or other problems caused by third parties could lead
to interruptions, delays or cessation in service to our customers. Furthermore,
inappropriate use of the Internet by third parties could also potentially
jeopardize the security of confidential information stored in the computer
systems of our customers. This could, in turn, deter potential customers and
adversely affect our existing customer relationships.
Security problems represent an ongoing threat to public and private data
networks. Attacks upon the security of Internet sites and infrastructure
continue to be reported in the press. Addressing problems caused by computer
viruses, break-ins or other problems caused by third parties could have a
material adverse effect on us.
The security services that we offer in connection with our customers'
networks cannot assure complete protection from computer viruses, break-ins or
other disruptive problems. Although we attempt to limit contractually our
liability in such instances, the occurrence of such problems may result in
claims against us or could have a material adverse effect on our business or
reputation or on our ability to attract and retain customers for our services.
Moreover, until more consumer reliance is placed on security technologies
available, the security and privacy concerns of existing and potential customers
may inhibit the growth of the Internet service industry and our customer base
and revenues.
OUR BUSINESS WILL SUFFER IF WE LOSE KEY PERSONNEL OR FAIL TO ATTRACT AND RETAIN
OTHER QUALIFIED PERSONNEL
Our operations are managed by a small number of key executive officers. The
loss of any of these officers could have a negative effect on our business. The
loss of senior management or the failure to recruit additional qualified
personnel in the future could significantly impede our financial plans, network
development, marketing and other objectives. Although we have designed incentive
and compensation programs to retain key employees and have entered into
employment agreements with certain executive officers, we cannot assure you as
to the continued availability of qualified key executive officers.
We believe that our growth and future success will depend in large part on
our continued ability to attract and retain highly skilled and qualified
management, marketing, technical and sales executives and other personnel who
are in high demand and often have multiple employment options. The competition
for qualified management, marketing, technical and sales executives and other
personnel in the telecommunications industry is intense. We will also need to
train our sales personnel to ensure that we successfully market our expanded
offering of e-business services to our business customers. We may lose key
employees or be forced to increase their compensation. We cannot assure you that
we will be able to hire, retain or successfully train necessary personnel.
12
<PAGE> 13
RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH REGULATORY MATTERS
Delays in liberalization of the EU telecommunications market may adversely
affect execution of our business strategy
A substantial portion of our strategy depends on the timely implementation
of regulatory liberalization of the EU telecommunications market. We may
implement our business plan and make capital expenditures in a given country in
anticipation of regulatory liberalization which may not occur. This
liberalization is occurring in accordance with existing European Commission
directives. Even if an EU member state promptly adopts liberalization measures
in a timely fashion, established national or regional telecommunications
operators, regulators, trade unions and other sources may resist implementing
such measures. Further, our provision of services in Europe and the
implementation of our business plan may be materially adversely affected if any
EU member state imposes greater restrictions on international services between
the EU member state and non-EU countries.
Delays in obtaining regulatory licenses and approvals could adversely affect
our plans to offer services in our targeted markets
Because we plan to provide an expanded array of telecommunications services
in Europe, we will become subject to significant additional regulation at the
EU, national and local levels. We cannot assure you that we will be able to
obtain or maintain the necessary lease agreements, regulatory approvals, rights
and permits on a timely basis or that we will not be adversely affected by
regulatory developments, which could have a material adverse effect on these
planned businesses. Delays in receiving regulatory approvals, or the enactment
of adverse regulations or regulatory requirements, may delay or prevent us from
expanding the geographic reach of our network and our service offering.
We may be liable for information disseminated through our network in EU member
states
The law relating to the regulation and liability of Internet service
providers in relation to information carried or disseminated is developing.
The EU Commission has prepared a proposal for a directive on certain legal
aspects of electronic commerce, which, if adopted by the European Parliament and
Council, would require member states to make certain changes to national laws.
The proposed directive would apply to us and other service providers established
in the EU and aims to establish a consistent legal framework for electronic
commerce within the EU.
The proposed directive includes provisions which would limit the liability
(other than for prohibitory injunctions) of "intermediaries" (such as Internet
service providers and carriers that transmit or host information provided by
third party users of the service) in respect of certain access, caching and
hosting services provided by them, subject to compliance with certain
conditions. The limitations potentially limit civil and criminal liability for
all types of illegal activities initiated by third parties on-line (e.g.
copyright piracy, unfair competition practices, misleading advertising,
copyright infringements, defamation, trademark infringements). If an
intermediary fails to qualify for such limitations, the nature and scope of its
liability will be established on the basis of member states' existing
legislation which may not provide us with the same protections from liability.
The proposed directive is still under review with member states and it is
impossible to predict whether it will eventually be adopted and, if so, in what
form. Decisions, laws, regulations and other activities regarding regulation and
content liability may adversely affect the development and profitability of
companies offering Internet access services, including us.
The imposition upon Internet and Web-hosting service providers of potential
liability for material carried on or disseminated through their systems could
require us to implement measures to reduce our exposure to liability. Such
measures may require that we spend substantial resources or discontinue some of
our service offerings. Any of these actions could have a material adverse effect
on our business, operating results and financial condition.
13
<PAGE> 14
There may be restrictions on our ability to carry certain traffic through our
network in EU member states
In October 1999, the EU adopted a directive on data protection which
establishes minimum levels of protection for personal information and imposes
limits on the collection, processing, storage and dissemination of such data
without the subject's consent. The directive is being implemented in EU member
states in various stages. Certain functions that we and our carrier customers
perform (such as storage of routing and billing information) are subject to the
directive. The directive forbids the transfer of personal information collected
in the EU to countries that lack "adequate" privacy protection. At the moment,
the United States is not judged to have "adequate" privacy protection. The EU
and U.S. authorities are currently holding discussions aimed at resolving this
issue and enabling the free circulation of personal information between the EU
and the United States. However, if these discussions are not successful, there
is a possibility that the movement of certain types of telecommunications
traffic from the EU to the United States could be disrupted, with consequent
impact on our revenues.
FLUCTUATIONS IN FOREIGN CURRENCIES MAY HAVE AN ADVERSE IMPACT ON OUR FINANCIAL
RESULTS AND MAY MAKE IT MORE COSTLY FOR US TO PAY OUR U.S. DOLLAR-DENOMINATED
DEBT
Although we report our results in U.S. dollars, a substantial portion of
our sales and some of our costs, assets and liabilities are denominated in
Euros, pounds sterling and other currencies. Changes in foreign currency
exchange rates can reduce the value of our assets and revenues and increase our
liabilities and costs. The recent weakening of the Euro against the U.S. dollar
has had the effect of decreasing reported revenues denominated in such currency
when translated into U.S. dollars.
We have substantial debt denominated in U.S. dollars. However, most of our
revenues are denominated in the Euro and other European currencies. Therefore,
our ability to pay interest and principal on such debt is dependent on the then
current exchange rates between U.S. dollars and the currencies in which our
revenues are denominated. We historically have not used hedging transactions to
limit our exposure to risks from doing business in foreign currencies.
WE MAY BE UNABLE TO MEET OUR SUBSTANTIAL DEBT OBLIGATIONS
We have incurred substantial debt and may incur substantial additional debt
to implement our business plans. Our ability to make principal and interest
payments on our debt, will depend upon, among other things, our future operating
performance. Our future operating performance depends on a variety of factors,
many of which are beyond our control. Because of this uncertainty, we cannot
assure you that we will generate sufficient cash flow to make payments on our
debt. Insufficient future cash flow could impair our ability to raise additional
equity or debt financing to expand the reach and capacity of our network. Our
cash flow could also be insufficient to make principal and interest payments on
our debt. If this happens, we may be required to renegotiate the terms of, or to
refinance, our long-term debt. We cannot assure you that we would be able to
refinance or renegotiate the terms of our debt when required.
As a result of our current high level of debt, we:
- Will need significant cash to service our debt, which will reduce funds
available for operations, future business opportunities and investments
in new or developing technologies and make us more vulnerable to adverse
economic conditions;
- May be more vulnerable to general adverse economic and industry
conditions;
- May find it more difficult to make interest and principal payments on
certain of our debt, which could be a default under the indentures
relating to our and our subsidiaries' other outstanding debt securities;
- May not be able to refinance our existing debt or raise additional
financing to fund future working capital, capital expenditures, debt
service requirements, acquisitions or other general corporate
requirements;
- May be less flexible in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our
business and in the telecommunications industry that affect how we
implement our financing, construction or operating plans; and
14
<PAGE> 15
- Will have more debt than some of our competitors, which may place us at a
competitive disadvantage with respect to such competitors.
If we fail to make the required payments or to comply with our debt
covenants, we will default on our debt. A default would permit our debtholders
to accelerate the maturity of the debt, which in turn could cause defaults under
our other debt.
COVENANTS IN OUR DEBT AGREEMENTS RESTRICT OUR OPERATIONS
The covenants in our currently outstanding debt and the currently
outstanding debt of our subsidiaries may materially and adversely affect our
ability to finance our future operations or capital needs or to engage in other
business activities. Among other things, these covenants place limitations as
to:
- Incurrence of additional debt;
- Payment of dividends or make certain other restricted payments;
- Our ability to use our assets as collateral for loans;
- Disposition of our assets;
- Entrance into transactions with affiliates; or
- The consolidating, merging or selling all or substantially all of our
assets and the assets of our subsidiaries.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
We lease our principal executive offices, located in Reading, United
Kingdom, under long-term leases, which expire 2008. The leases contain a tenant
only option to cancel in March 2003. In addition, we lease property at each of
the locations where we maintain sales offices.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
We may be subject to various claims and proceedings in the ordinary course
of our business. Based on information currently available, we believe that none
of our current claims and proceedings will have a material adverse effect on our
financial condition or results of operations, although there can be no assurance
that this will remain the case.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
None.
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE COMPANY'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
None.
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<PAGE> 16
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The following is a summary of selected historical financial data of the
Company as of and for the five years ended December 31, 1999 and 1998, and
September 30, 1997, 1996 and 1995. The historical financial data as of December
31, 1999 and 1998 and for the years ended December 31, 1999, 1998, and September
30, 1997 have been derived from the historical financial statements of the
Company, which financial statements have been audited by independent auditors
and independent public accountants, as indicated in their reports included
elsewhere herein. The selected financial data presented below should be read in
conjunction with "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations" and the audited Consolidated Financial Statements and
related notes thereto appearing elsewhere in this document.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
TWELVE MONTHS ENDED TWELVE MONTHS ENDED
DECEMBER 31, SEPTEMBER 30,
---------------------- ----------------------------
1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
---------- --------- -------- ------- -------
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA:
Revenues............................. $ 351,697 $ 176,826 $ 74,473 $38,380 $22,046
Loss from operations................. (268,165) (65,954) (17,338) (7,650) (3,445)
Net loss............................. (341,397) (106,507) (17,775) (8,214) (3,796)
Net loss per share................... (2.71) (0.85) (0.17) (0.12) (0.08)
Deficiencies of earnings available to
cover fixed charges(1)............ (341,394) (106,504) (17,772) (8,214) (3,796)
OTHER DATA:
EBITDA(2)............................ $ (160,646) $ (36,986) $(12,693) $(5,381) $(2,230)
Net cash (used in) provided by
operating activities.............. (188,485) (101,611) (3,663) (3,747) 297
Net cash used in investing
activities........................ (36,453) (172,531) (14,222) (5,544) (3,032)
Net cash provided by financing
activities........................ 84,379 218,714 47,553 10,401 10,919
BALANCE SHEET DATA (AT END OF PERIOD):
Cash and cash equivalents............ $ 16,936 $ 166,107 $ 39,618 $10,053 $ 8,723
Property and equipment, net.......... 214,089 114,949 23,074 11,529 5,459
Total assets......................... 1,030,444 632,951 96,186 37,680 20,472
Total debt........................... 719,569 577,513 6,351 3,802 11,925
Shareholders' equity/(deficit)....... 36,690 (51,821) 50,682 14,599 8,547
</TABLE>
- ---------------
(1) Because of our historic losses, we have experienced a deficiency of earnings
available to cover fixed charges throughout our existence. The deficiency of
earnings available to cover fixed charges has been computed by adding loss
from continuing operations before income taxes minus fixed charges. Fixed
charges consist of interest on all indebtedness and amortization of discount
on all indebtedness.
(2) EBITDA is earnings (loss) from operations before interest, taxes,
depreciation and amortization, foreign currency gains (losses), other income
(expense) and non-recurring expenses. EBITDA is a measure of a company's
performance commonly used in the telecommunications industry, but should not
be construed as an alternative to net income (loss) determined in accordance
with generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") as an indicator of
operating performance or as an alternative to cash from operating activities
determined in accordance with GAAP as a measure of liquidity.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion and analysis relates to our financial condition
and results of operations as of and for the twelve months ended December 31,
1999 and 1998, and September 30, 1997. This information should be read in
conjunction with the "Selected Financial Data" and our Consolidated Financial
Statements and the notes related thereto appearing elsewhere in the document.
16
<PAGE> 17
SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS
Certain statements contained in "Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations" including, without limitation,
those concerning (i) projected traffic volume, (ii) future revenues and costs
and (iii) changes in our competitive environment, and contain forward-looking
statements concerning our operations, economic performance and financial
condition. Because such statements involve risks and uncertainties, actual
results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-
looking statements.
In addition, any statements that express, or involve discussions as to,
expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions or future events or
performance (often, but not always, through the use of words or phrases such as
"will likely result," "are expected to," "will continue," "is anticipated,"
"estimated," "intends," "plans," "projection" and "outlook") are not historical
facts and may be forward-looking and, accordingly, such statements involve
estimates, assumptions and uncertainties which could cause actual results to
differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements.
Accordingly, any such statements are qualified in their entirety by reference
to, and are accompanied by, the factors discussed throughout this Report. Among
the key factors that have a direct bearing on our results of operations are the
potential risk of delay in implementing our business plan; the political,
economic and legal aspects of the markets in which we operate; competition; and
our need for additional substantial financing. These and other factors are
discussed herein under "Business," "Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and elsewhere in this Report.
The factors described in this Report could cause actual results or outcomes
to differ materially from those expressed in any of our forward-looking
statements made by or on our behalf, and investors, therefore, should not place
undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. Further, any
forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which such statement is
made, and we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement or
statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such
statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. New
factors may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for management to
predict all of such factors. Further, management cannot assess the impact of
each such factor on our business or the extent to which any factor, or
combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those
contained in any forward-looking statements.
OVERVIEW
The Company offers a range of telecommunications services and products to
three targeted customer segments: (i) retail long distance voice and fax
services for corporate customers to all global destinations either directly, via
dedicated leased lines linked to its network, or indirectly, on a switched basis
using the public telephone operator network by means of an access code ("Retail"
or "Retail Services"); (ii) wholesale long distance traffic termination services
for other telecommunications carriers, including PTOs, major telecommunications
alliances and regional telephone companies ("Wholesale" or "Wholesale
Services"); and (iii) network management, access and termination services to
telecommunications service providers, such as calling card companies ("Service
Providers"), and to resellers (as a segment Service Provider/Reseller Services).
The Company has recently introduced two new categories of service to complement
its established long distance telecommunications services and products: (i)
bandwidth services, consisting of providing telecommunications transmission
capacity to its customers from May 1998, as well as other telecommunications
companies ("Bandwidth Services") and (ii) enhanced services, such as toll free
services, calling cards and switched data services ("Enhanced Services").
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<PAGE> 18
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following table sets forth our statement of operations as a percentage
of revenues:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FOR THE TWELVE MONTHS ENDED
-------------------------------
DECEMBER 31,
-------------- SEPTEMBER 30,
1999 1998 1997
----- ----- -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Revenues............................................... 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
Access and network services............................ 92.2 78.6 83.5
Selling, general and administrative.................... 53.4 42.3 33.6
Restructuring charges.................................. 10.6 -- --
Depreciation and amortization.......................... 20.0 16.4 6.2
----- ----- ------
Loss from operations................................... (76.2) (37.3) (23.3)
Other income (expense):
Interest, net........................................ (19.7) (20.5) 1.5
Foreign currency losses and other expense............ (1.2) (2.4) (2.1)
----- ----- ------
(20.9) (22.9) (0.6)
Net loss............................................... (97.1)% (60.2)% (23.9)%
===== ===== ======
Net loss applicable to common shareholders............. (97.1)% (60.2)% (23.9)%
===== ===== ======
</TABLE>
Twelve Months Ended December 31, 1999 Compared To The Twelve Months Ended
December 31, 1998
The Company was acquired on March 4, 1999, by Global TeleSystems Group,
Inc. ("GTS"). GTS immediately began integrating the Company's business
operations with its existing European business operations. In addition,
throughout 1999, GTS acquired several other business operations and GTS also
reorganized its organization structure to accommodate GTS's new business model.
Accordingly, the 1999 financial results of the Company are not necessarily
comparable to the financial results of the Company during 1998, due to the
aforementioned changes in the Companies business during 1999.
Revenue. Our consolidated revenue increased to $351.7 million for the
twelve months ended December 31, 1999 as compared to $176.8 million for the
twelve months ended December 31, 1998. The growth in revenue was primarily
attributable to the increase in our customer base and resulting traffic in our
operations as a result of the acquisition of Omnicom SA ("Omnicom") in France in
April 1999 and the acquisition of PLUSNET Gesellschaft fur Netzwerk Services
GmbH ("PLUSNET") in Germany in May 1998, where the comparatives reflect seven
months of revenue in 1998, compared to twelve months of revenue in 1999.
However, the increase in revenue is partially offset by a decline in prices for
the Company's products and services.
Access and Network Services. Our access and network services costs
increased to $324.4 million or 92.2% of revenues for the twelve months ended
December 31, 1999 as compared to $139.1 million or 78.6% of revenues for the
twelve months ended December 31, 1998. The increase was primarily due to the
increase in the Company's traffic volume as a result of the acquisition of
Omnicom in France in April 1999 and the acquisition of PLUSNET in Germany in May
1998. Included in these access and network costs during 1999 were costs of
services purchased from an affiliated Company of approximately $27.2 million.
Additionally, access and network services costs increased in 1999 as a
percentage of revenue, as a result of a decline in prices for the company's
products and services without a comparable decline in interconnect costs.
Selling, General and Administrative. Selling, general and administrative
expenses for the twelve months ended December 31, 1999 increased to $188.0
million or 53.4% of revenues as compared to $74.8 million or 42.3% of revenues
for the twelve months ended December 31, 1998. The increase in selling, general
and administrative expenses is attributable to increases in the number of staff
associated with business growth, as well as administrative and marketing costs
required for our increased customer base and the increase in allowance for
doubtful accounts.
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<PAGE> 19
Restructuring charges. During the fourth quarter of 1999, the Company
recorded a $37.3 million charge to earnings related to the integration and
rationalization of our switched-telecommunications assets which is expected to
increase efficiencies in our network infrastructure. This rationalization
program is the result of our parent company's efforts to integrate the numerous
businesses that they had acquired during the past year and a half.
Depreciation and Amortization. Depreciation and amortization increased to
$70.2 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 1999 as compared to $29.0
million for the twelve months ended December 31, 1998. The substantial increase
in depreciation and amortization costs is attributable to the depreciation
related to the expansion of our network infrastructure. Additionally, we have
experienced an increase in amortization expense associated with goodwill and
intangibles that have arisen from our acquisition activities.
Interest, net. Net interest increased to approximately ($69.0) million in
the twelve months ended December 31, 1999 from ($36.4) million in the twelve
months ended December 31, 1998. This significant increase in interest is
attributable to the substantial increase in our outstanding debt obligations and
related party long-term debt since 1998.
Foreign Currency Loss. We recognized foreign currency losses of $4.2
million in the twelve months ended December 31, 1999 and the twelve months ended
December 31, 1998. Our foreign currency losses are primarily attributable to the
effect of currency movements on our outstanding debt obligations.
Twelve Months Ended December 31, 1998 Compared To The Twelve Months Ended
September 30, 1997
Revenue. Our consolidated revenue increased to $176.8 million for the
twelve months ended December 31, 1998 as compared to $74.5 million for the
twelve months ended September 30, 1997. The growth in revenue was primarily
attributable to the increase in our customer base and resulting traffic in all
of our operations as a result of the acquisition of PLUSNET in Germany in May
1998. However, the increase in revenue is partially offset by a decline in
prices for the Company's products and services.
Access and Network Services. Our access and network services costs
increased to $139.1 million or 78.6% of revenues for the twelve months ended
December 31, 1998, as compared to $62.2 million or 83.5% of revenues for the
twelve months ended September 30, 1997. The increase in access and network
services costs is primarily due to the increase in the Company's traffic volume
as a result of the acquisition of PLUSNET. The decrease in access and network
services costs as a percentage of revenues is attributable to the impact of
increased usage of the interconnect arrangements combined with lower
interconnect prices.
Selling, General and Administrative. Selling, general and administrative
expenses for the twelve months ended December 31, 1998 increased to $74.8
million or 42.3% of revenues as compared to $25.0 million or 33.6% of revenues
for the twelve months ended September 30, 1997. The increase in selling, general
and administrative expenses in 1998 is attributable to increases in the number
of staff associated with business growth, as well as administrative and
marketing costs required for our increased customer base.
Depreciation and Amortization. Depreciation and amortization increased to
$29.0 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 1998 as compared to $4.6
million for the twelve months ended September 30, 1997. The substantial increase
in depreciation and amortization costs is attributable to the depreciation
related to the expansion of our network infrastructure. Additionally, we have
experienced an increase in amortization expense associated with goodwill and
intangibles that have arisen from the acquisition of PLUSNET.
Interest, net. Net interest increased to approximately ($36.4) million in
the twelve months ended December 31, 1998 from $1.1 million in the twelve months
ended September 30, 1997. This significant increase in interest is attributable
to the substantial increase in our outstanding debt obligations since September
30, 1997.
Foreign Currency Losses. We recognized foreign currency losses of $4.2
million in the twelve months ended December 31, 1998 as compared to losses of
$1.6 million in the twelve months ended September 30, 1997. Our foreign currency
losses are primarily attributable to the effect of currency movements on our
outstanding debt obligations.
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<PAGE> 20
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
CORPORATE
Our revenues and costs are dependent upon factors that are not within our
control such as political, economic and regulatory changes, changes in
technology, increased competition and various factors such as strikes, weather,
and performance by third parties in connection with our operations. Due to the
uncertainty of these factors, actual revenues and costs may vary from expected
amounts, possibly to a material degree, and such variations are likely to affect
our future capital requirements. In addition, if we expand our operations at an
accelerated rate or consummate acquisitions, our funding needs will increase,
possibly to a significant degree, and we will expend our capital resources
sooner than currently expected. As a result of the foregoing, or if our capital
resources otherwise prove to be insufficient, we might need to raise additional
capital to execute our current business plan and to fund expected operating
losses, as well as to consummate future acquisitions and exploit opportunities
to expand and develop our businesses. The Company is a wholly owned subsidiary
of GTS and during 1999, GTS contributed $87.5 million in the form of equity
contributions. There can be no assurances however, that GTS will fund additional
amounts in 2000.
We cannot assure you that we will be able to consummate additional capital
financing on favorable terms. As a result, we may be subject to additional or
more restrictive financial covenants and our interest obligations may increase
significantly. Failure to generate sufficient funds in the future, may require
us to delay or abandon some or all of our anticipated expenditures, to sell
assets, or both, either of which could have a material adverse effect on our
operations.
LIQUIDITY ANALYSIS
We had cash and cash equivalents of $16.9 million and $166.1 million as of
December 31, 1999 and 1998, respectively. We had restricted cash of $32.5
million and $66.5 million as of December 31, 1999 and 1998, respectively, that
primarily represent amounts held in escrow for debt interest payments.
In the twelve months ended December 31, 1999 and 1998 and the twelve months
ended September 30, 1997, we used cash of $188.5 million, $101.6 million and
$3.7 million, respectively, for our operating activities. The significant
increase in cash spending for our operations in 1999 as compared to 1998 is
attributable to the growth of our business operations which has resulted in
higher operating cash costs and increased accounts payable and accounts
receivable carrying balances. We also used cash of $36.5 million, $172.5 million
and $14.2 million for our investing activities in 1999, 1998 and 1997,
respectively. We cannot assure you that our operations will achieve or sustain
profitability or positive cash flow in the future. If we cannot achieve and
sustain operating profitability or positive cash flow from operations, we may
not be able to meet our debt service obligations or working capital
requirements.
YEAR 2000 COMPLIANCE
We initiated a Year 2000 compliance program during 1998 to address the
risks associated with the Year 2000 issue and to avoid material loss or impact
to us or our customers due to these risks. We experienced no material problems
relating to the Year 2000 issues. We incurred approximately $1.24 million in
costs, $1.20 million of which we incurred during 1999, to ensure that business
would continue without incident after December 31, 1999. We continue to monitor
all of our systems and believe that any and all additional Year 2000 issues or
concerns that may arise will be addressed and corrected by March 31, 2000.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK
Our treasury function manages our funding, liquidity, and exposure to
interest rate and foreign exchange rate risks. Our treasury operations are
conducted within a framework of policies and guidelines authorized by our Board
of Directors. In accordance with our policy, we do not enter into any
transactions of a speculative nature.
20
<PAGE> 21
We are exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates on long-term
obligations and as a global company, we also face exposure to adverse movements
in foreign currency exchange rates. A portion of our debt obligations is
denominated in currencies which expose us to risks associated with changes in
foreign exchange rates. We have developed risk management policies that
establish guidelines for managing foreign exchange risk and periodically
evaluate the materiality of foreign exchange exposures and the financial
instruments available to mitigate this exposure.
The following table provides information about our debt obligations that
are sensitive to changes in interest rates.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FAIR VALUE
2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 THEREAFTER TOTAL 12/31/99
---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---------- -------- ----------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Long-term Debt, including
current portion:
Fixed rate.............. $608 $631 $665 $563 $240 $525,748 $528,455 $525,901
Avg. interest rate...... 5.3% 5.2% 5.2% 5.2% 5.2% 11.3% -- --
</TABLE>
The following tables provide information about our derivative financial
instruments and other financial instruments by functional currency and where
applicable, presents such information in US dollar equivalents. The tables
summarize information on instruments that are sensitive to foreign currency
exchange rates.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FAIR VALUE
2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 THEREAFTER TOTAL 12/31/99
---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---------- -------- ----------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Long-term Debt, including
current portion:
US Dollars
Fixed rate........... -- -- -- -- -- $380,000 $380,000 $377,575
Avg. interest rate... -- -- -- -- -- 11.3% -- --
German Mark
Fixed rate........... -- -- -- -- -- $142,450 $142,450 $142,321
Avg. interest rate... -- -- -- -- -- 11.2% -- --
</TABLE>
INTEREST RATES
The Company has fixed rate debt, as the interest rates on the Notes are
fixed until maturity. The following is a breakdown of the Company's principal
and material debt as of December 31, 1999:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NOTES INTEREST RATE MATURITY
- ----- ------------- --------
<S> <C> <C>
U.S.$230,000,000............................................ 11.500% 2007
DM 125,000,000.............................................. 11.500% 2007
U.S.$150,000,000............................................ 10.875% 2008
DM 150,000,000.............................................. 11.000% 2008
</TABLE>
21
<PAGE> 22
EXCHANGE RATES
As noted above, the Company's principal and material areas of exposure
arise out of its foreign currency denominated Notes. The fact that the Company
has certain principal and material amounts of assets in those currencies
mitigates this exposure. The Company had the following mitigating foreign
currency assets as of December 31, 1999:
Deposits
U.S. $1,520,000
EUR 17,557,000
Restricted Securities
U.S. $25,605,000
DM 13,324,000
22
<PAGE> 23
ITEM 8. CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION FOR THE
COMPANY
GLOBAL TELESYSTEMS (EUROPE) LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31,
---------------------
1999 1998
---------- --------
<S> <C> <C>
ASSETS
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents................................. $ 16,936 $166,107
Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful
accounts of $28,855 and $3,993, respectively........... 116,100 67,505
Other receivables......................................... 14,637 2,998
Related party receivables................................. 23,831 --
Restricted cash........................................... 32,507 35,079
Prepaid expenses and other assets......................... 7,954 4,356
---------- --------
Total Current Assets.............................. 211,965 276,045
Property and equipment
Communications equipment.................................. 216,471 127,786
Furniture, fixtures and office equipment.................. 66,561 19,741
Construction in process................................... 5,778 6,161
---------- --------
288,810 153,688
Accumulated depreciation.................................... (74,721) (38,739)
---------- --------
Property and equipment, net............................... 214,089 114,949
Goodwill and intangible assets, net of accumulated
amortization of $42,103 and $9,587, respectively.......... 603,803 210,566
Restricted cash and other non-current assets................ 587 31,391
---------- --------
Total Assets...................................... $1,030,444 $632,951
========== ========
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY/(DEFICIT)
Current Liabilities
Accounts payable and other accrued expenses............... $ 141,482 $ 80,828
Accrued communications expense............................ 64,773 19,340
Related party payables.................................... 53,863 --
Current portion of debt and capital lease obligations..... 17,022 5,339
Unearned revenue.......................................... 14,067 3,269
---------- --------
Total Current Liabilities......................... 291,207 108,776
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, less current
portion................................................... 598,356 572,174
Related party long-term debt, less current portion.......... 104,191 --
Taxes and other non-current liabilities..................... -- 3,822
---------- --------
Total Liabilities................................. $ 993,754 $684,772
Shareholders' Equity/(Deficit)
Common stock, L0.01 par value (200,000,000 shares
authorized; 126,101,574 and 125,799,771 shares issued
and outstanding, respectively)......................... 1,975 1,970
Additional paid-in capital................................ 527,694 97,791
Accumulated deficit....................................... (492,979) (151,582)
---------- --------
Total Shareholders' Equity/(Deficit).............. 36,690 (51,821)
---------- --------
Total Liabilities and Shareholders'
Equity/(Deficit)................................ $1,030,444 $632,951
========== ========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
23
<PAGE> 24
GLOBAL TELESYSTEMS (EUROPE) LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
TWELVE TWELVE
MONTHS ENDED MONTHS ENDED
DECEMBER 31, SEPTEMBER 30,
--------------------- -------------
1999 1998 1997
--------- --------- -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Revenues................................................. $ 351,697 $ 176,826 $ 74,473
Operating Expenses:
Access and network services............................ 324,385 139,054 62,160
Selling, general and administrative.................... 187,958 74,758 25,006
Restructuring charges.................................. 37,306 -- --
Depreciation and amortization.......................... 70,213 28,968 4,645
--------- --------- --------
Total operating expenses....................... 619,862 242,780 91,811
Loss from operations..................................... (268,165) (65,954) (17,338)
Other Income/(Expense):
Interest, net.......................................... (68,973) (36,373) 1,138
Foreign currency losses and other expenses............. (4,256) (4,177) (1,572)
--------- --------- --------
(73,229) (40,550) (434)
--------- --------- --------
Net loss before income taxes............................. (341,394) (106,504) (17,772)
Income taxes............................................. 3 3 3
--------- --------- --------
Net loss................................................. $(341,397) $(106,507) $(17,775)
========= ========= ========
Loss per common share:
Net loss per share....................................... $ (2.71) $ (0.85) $ (0.17)
========= ========= ========
Weighted average common shares outstanding............... 126,102 124,822 104,900
========= ========= ========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
24
<PAGE> 25
GLOBAL TELESYSTEMS (EUROPE) LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(IN THOUSANDS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
TWELVE TWELVE
MONTHS ENDED MONTHS ENDED
DECEMBER 31, SEPTEMBER 30,
--------------------- -------------
1999 1998 1997
--------- --------- -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Operating Activities
Net loss............................................... $(341,397) $(106,507) $(17,775)
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Loss to Net Cash Used in
Operating Activities:
Depreciation and amortization.......................... 70,213 28,968 4,645
Restructuring charges.................................. 37,306 -- --
Other.................................................. 23,259 2,998 3,755
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable................................. (73,457) (65,397) (14,170)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses............... 117,744 40,961 19,133
Other changes in assets and liabilities............. (22,153) (2,634) 749
--------- --------- --------
Net Cash Used in Operating Activities.......... (188,485) (101,611) (3,663)
Investing Activities
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired..................... -- (153,687) (1,250)
Purchases of property and equipment.................... (77,994) (60,076) (12,972)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment........... 1,313 -- --
Restricted cash........................................ 30,584 41,232 --
Other investing activities............................. 9,644 -- --
--------- --------- --------
Net Cash Used in Investing Activities.......... (36,453) (172,531) (14,222)
Financing Activities
Proceeds from debt, net of debt issuance costs......... -- 227,663 --
Net proceeds from issuance of common stock............. -- 512 49,971
Repayments of debt..................................... (3,096) (76) (149)
Capital contribution from GTS.......................... 87,475 -- --
Other financing activities............................. -- (9,385) (2,269)
--------- --------- --------
Net Cash Provided by Financing Activities...... 84,379 218,714 47,553
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash
equivalents............................................ (8,612) 83 (103)
--------- --------- --------
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents..... (149,171) (55,345) 29,565
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year........... 166,107 221,452 10,053
--------- --------- --------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year................. $ 16,936 $ 166,107 $ 39,618
========= ========= ========
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information:
Capitalization of leases............................... $ 67,123 $ 28,826 $ 3,281
========= ========= ========
Omnicom acquisition, net, including liabilities
assumed............................................. $ 353,354 $ -- $ --
========= ========= ========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
25
<PAGE> 26
GLOBAL TELESYSTEMS (EUROPE) LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY/(DEFICIT)
FOR THE TWELVE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1997 AND DECEMBER 31, 1998 AND 1999
(IN THOUSANDS)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COMMON STOCK ADDITIONAL TOTAL
---------------- PAID-IN ACCUMULATED SHAREHOLDERS'
SHARES AMOUNT CAPITAL DEFICIT EQUITY/(DEFICIT)
------- ------ ---------- ----------- ----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
BALANCE AT SEPTEMBER 30, 1996........ 81,400 $1,245 $ 33,077 $ (19,723) $ 14,599
Proceeds from the sale of common
stock, net of expenses of
$7,073.......................... 40,471 660 52,098 -- 52,758
Other comprehensive income......... -- -- 430 -- 430
Net loss........................... -- -- -- (17,775) (17,775)
---------
Total comprehensive loss... (17,345)
Other.............................. -- -- 670 -- 670
------- ------ -------- --------- ---------
BALANCE AT SEPTEMBER 30, 1997........ 121,871 1,905 86,275 (37,498) 50,682
Changes in shareholders' equity for
the three months ended December
31, 1997, not presented
elsewhere....................... 1,578 26 1,444 (7,577) (6,107)
------- ------ -------- --------- ---------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1997......... 123,449 1,931 87,719 (45,075) 44,575
Proceeds from the sale of common
Stock........................... 2,351 39 1,685 -- 1,724
Issuance of common stock in
connection with business
combinations.................... -- -- 3,606 -- 3,606
Other comprehensive loss........... -- -- 4,781 -- 4,781
Net loss........................... -- -- -- (106,507) (106,507)
---------
Total comprehensive loss... (101,726)
------- ------ -------- --------- ---------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1998......... 125,800 1,970 97,791 (151,582) (51,821)
Omnicom acquisition, net........... -- -- 350,540 -- 350,540
Capital contribution from GTS...... -- -- 87,475 -- 87,475
Other comprehensive loss........... -- -- (8,107) -- (8,107)
Net loss........................... -- -- -- (341,397) (341,397)
---------
Total comprehensive
income................... (349,504)
Other, net......................... 302 5 (5) -- --
------- ------ -------- --------- ---------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1999......... 126,102 $1,975 $527,694 $(492,979) $ 36,690
======= ====== ======== ========= =========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
26
<PAGE> 27
GLOBAL TELESYSTEMS (EUROPE) LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 1: NATURE OF BUSINESS OPERATIONS
Global TeleSystems (Europe) Limited ("GTS (Europe) Ltd." or "the Company"),
formerly Esprit Telecom Group plc, is a European telecommunications company,
providing high quality, competitively priced, international and national long
distance telecommunications services. The Company also provides
telecommunications services in the United Kingdom, Germany, The Netherlands,
Spain, France, Belgium and Italy and has commenced operations over a broadband
Synchronous Digital Hierarchy ("SDH") fiber optic network linking the key cities
in which it operates. GTS (Europe) Ltd. provides telecommunications services
both within and across national borders to a pan-European market.
On March 4, 1999, Global TeleSystems Group, Inc. ("GTS") acquired
substantially all of the outstanding ordinary shares and American Depositary
Shares of the Company. The combination was accounted for as a pooling of
interests. Accordingly, the transaction resulted in the Company becoming a
subsidiary of GTS. All costs associated with this pooling are the responsibility
of the parent company, GTS, and are reflected on GTS's audited consolidated
financial statements.
NOTE 2: SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements incorporate the financial statements
of the Company and its subsidiaries. All significant inter-company accounts and
transactions are eliminated upon consolidation. Results of subsidiaries acquired
and accounted for by the purchase method have been included in operations from
the relevant date of acquisition.
Reclassifications
Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior period consolidated
financial statements in order to conform to the 1999 presentation.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company classifies cash on hand and deposits in banks, including
commercial paper, money market accounts, and any other investments with an
original maturity of three months or less, that the Company may hold from time
to time, as cash and cash equivalents. The Company had $32.5 million and $66.5
million of restricted cash at December 31, 1999 and 1998, respectively. The
restricted cash is primarily related to cash held in escrow for interest
payments associated with the Company's debt obligations.
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment is stated at cost. Depreciation, which includes the
amortization of assets recorded under capital leases, is calculated on a
straight-line basis over the lesser of the estimated lives, ranging from five to
ten years for communications equipment and three to five years for furniture,
fixtures and equipment and other property, or their contractual term.
Construction in process reflects amounts incurred for the configuration and
build-out of communications equipment and communications equipment not yet
placed into service. Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Goodwill represents the excess of acquisition costs over the fair market
value of the net assets of acquired businesses, and is being amortized on a
straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives, generally fifteen to
twenty years. Intangible assets, principally communications service contracts,
licenses and deferred financing costs, are amortized on a straight-line basis
over the lesser of their estimated useful lives, generally three to
27
<PAGE> 28
GLOBAL TELESYSTEMS (EUROPE) LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
fifteen years, or their contractual term. In accordance with Accounting
Principles Board ("APB") Opinion No. 17, "Intangible Assets," the Company
continues to evaluate the amortization period to determine whether events or
circumstances warrant revised amortization periods. Additionally, the Company
considers whether the carrying value of such assets should be reduced based on
the future benefits of its intangible assets.
Long-Lived Assets
In accordance with SFAS No. 121, "Accounting for the Impairment of
Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of," long-lived
assets to be held and used by the Company are reviewed to determine whether an
event or change in circumstances indicates that the carrying amount of the asset
may not be recoverable. For long-lived assets to be held and used, the Company
bases its evaluation on such impairment indicators as the nature of the assets,
the future economic benefit of the assets, any historical or future
profitability measurements, as well as other external market conditions or
factors that may be present. If such impairment indicators are present or other
factors exist that indicate that the carrying amount of the asset may not be
recoverable, the Company determines whether an impairment has occurred through
the use of an undiscounted cash flows analysis of assets at the lowest level for
which identifiable cash flows exist. If impairment has occurred, the Company
recognizes a loss for the difference between the carrying amount and the
estimated value of the asset. The fair value of the asset is measured using
discounted cash flow analysis or other valuation techniques.
Income Taxes
The Company uses the liability method of accounting for income taxes.
Deferred income taxes result from temporary differences between the tax basis of
assets and liabilities and the basis as reported in the consolidated financial
statements.
Foreign Currency Translation
The Company follows a translation policy in accordance with SFAS No. 52,
"Foreign Currency Translation," (as amended by SFAS No. 130, "Reporting
Comprehensive Income"). The local currency is considered the functional currency
for the Company's subsidiaries. Transactions in foreign currencies are
translated into the functional currency at the rates of exchange ruling at the
date of transaction. Assets and liabilities of these subsidiaries are translated
into US dollar equivalents at the rates of exchange at the balance sheet date.
Income and expense accounts are translated at average monthly rates of exchange.
The resultant translation adjustments are included in other comprehensive
income, a separate component of shareholders' equity. Gains and losses from
foreign currency transactions of these subsidiaries are included in the
operations of the subsidiary.
All foreign currency gains and losses recognized in the operations of
consolidated subsidiaries are included in the Company's statement of operations
as "foreign currency gains/losses."
Revenue Recognition
The Company records as revenue the amount of communications services
rendered, as measured primarily by the minutes of traffic processed, after
deducting an estimate of the traffic that will be neither billed nor collected.
Revenue from service contracts is accounted for when the services are provided.
Billings received in advance of service being performed are deferred and
recognized as revenue as the service is performed.
28
<PAGE> 29
GLOBAL TELESYSTEMS (EUROPE) LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
Segment Information
The Company adopted the Financial Accounting Standards Board's Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards No. 131, or SFAS 131, "Disclosures about Segments
of an Enterprise and Related Information," as of December 31, 1998. SFAS 131
establishes annual and interim reporting standards for an enterprise's operating
segment and related disclosures about its products, services, geographic areas
and major customers.
Based on its organizational structure, the Company operates in one
reportable segment providing telecommunications services mainly to businesses
and other organizations located principally in the European Union.
Net Loss Per Share
The Company follows SFAS No. 128, "Earnings Per Share," which requires the
Company to present basic and diluted earnings per share for all years presented.
The Company's net loss per share calculation (basic and diluted) is based upon
the weighted average common shares issued. There are no reconciling items in the
numerator or denominator of the Company's net loss per share calculation.
Employee stock options have been excluded from the net loss per share
calculation because their effect would be anti-dilutive.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The carrying amounts for cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable and
accrued liabilities approximate their fair value. The fair value of the
long-term debt is determined based on quoted market prices. At December 31, 1999
and 1998, the fair value of the Company's fixed rate long-term debt is as
follows (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31,
---------------------------------------------
1999 1998
--------------------- ---------------------
CARRYING CARRYING
FAIR VALUE VALUE FAIR VALUE VALUE
---------- -------- ---------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
11.500% Senior Notes Due 2007, USD......... $230,575 $230,000 $235,750 $230,000
11.500% Senior Notes Due 2007, DM.......... 65,398 64,750 75,802 75,051
10.875% Senior Notes Due 2008, USD......... 147,000 150,000 150,750 150,000
11.000% Senior Notes Due 2008, DM.......... 76,923 77,700 90,061 90,061
</TABLE>
The recorded amounts for all other long-term debt of the Company
approximates fair value.
Off Balance Sheet Risk and Concentration of Credit Risk
Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentration
of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, most of which are
maintained in high-quality financial institutions, and accounts receivable. The
Company believes that the concentration of credit risk associated with accounts
receivable is minimal due to the dispersion over many customers and different
industries. The Company extends credit to various customers and establishes an
allowance for doubtful accounts for specific customers that it determines to
have significant credit risk. The Company provides allowances for potential
credit losses when necessary.
Derivative Financial Instruments
The Company has developed risk management policies that establish
guidelines for managing foreign exchange risk and periodically evaluates the
materiality of foreign exchange exposures in different countries and the
financial instruments available to mitigate this exposure. The Company finds it
impractical to hedge all foreign currency exposure and as a result, will
continue to experience foreign currency gains and losses.
29
<PAGE> 30
GLOBAL TELESYSTEMS (EUROPE) LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
In June 1998, the FASB issued SFAS No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative
Instruments and Hedging Activities," which establishes a reporting standard for
derivative instruments which will require the Company to record all derivatives
as either assets or liabilities and requires that those instruments are recorded
at their fair value. The Company plans to adopt SFAS No. 133 for the fiscal year
beginning January 1, 2001. The Company does not anticipate that the adoption of
the statement will have a significant effect on its results of operations or
financial position.
Stock-Based Compensation
SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation," establishes a fair
value method of accounting for employee stock options and similar equity
instruments. The fair value method requires compensation cost to be measured at
the grant date based on the value of the award and is recognized over the
service period. SFAS No. 123 generally allows companies to either account for
stock-based compensation under the new provisions of SFAS No. 123 or under the
provisions of APB No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees." The
Company has elected generally to account for its stock-based compensation in
accordance with the provisions of APB No. 25 and presents pro forma disclosures
of net loss as if the fair value method had been adopted.
Uses of Estimates in Preparation of Financial Statements
The preparation of these consolidated financial statements, in conformity
with generally accepted accounting principles, requires management to make
estimates and assumptions that affect amounts in the financial statements and
accompanying notes and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the
reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
NOTE 3: BUSINESS COMBINATIONS
On April 26, 1999, GTS acquired a majority stake in Omnicom SA ("Omnicom"),
a French company, and assumed operational control. Effective on that date, GTS
transferred its ownership interest in Omnicom to the Company. Total
consideration for the Omnicom shares consisted of approximately $320 million in
cash and 3,706,572 shares of GTS's common stock. Such transaction resulted in
the Company recording $350.5 million, net of a $100 million note payable to GTS,
of additional paid-in capital as a result of this transfer of ownership. The
excess of the purchase price over the fair value of assets acquired has been
preliminarily calculated at approximately $453.4 million and has been allocated
to goodwill, which is being amortized over 20 years.
On May 1, 1998, the Company acquired all of the outstanding common stock of
Thyssen Festnetz Management GmbH and the whole limited partnership interest in
Thyssen Festnetz GmbH & Co. KG (collectively, "the Plusnet business") for cash
consideration of approximately DM 307.8 million ($173.6 million) before
expenses. The Company's 1999 financial statements reflect the final allocation
of the purchase price, and as such, the Company has recorded approximately
$164.4 million in goodwill, which is being amortized over 15 years.
30
<PAGE> 31
GLOBAL TELESYSTEMS (EUROPE) LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
NOTE 4: COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
The following table reflects the calculation of comprehensive income (loss)
for the Company:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31,
----------------------
1999 1998
--------- ---------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C>
Net loss.................................................... $(341,397) $(106,507)
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Foreign currency translation adjustments.................. (8,107) 4,781
--------- ---------
Comprehensive loss.......................................... $(349,504) $(101,726)
========= =========
</TABLE>
NOTE 5: DEBT OBLIGATIONS
Company debt consists of:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31,
--------------------
1999 1998
-------- --------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C>
Senior Notes, at interest rates ranging from 10.875% to
11.5%..................................................... $522,450 $545,112
Other financing agreements.................................. 6,005 --
-------- --------
Total debt........................................ 528,455 545,112
Less: debt maturing within one year......................... 608 --
-------- --------
Total long-term debt.............................. $527,847 $545,112
======== ========
</TABLE>
In June 1998, the Company issued $150.0 million and DM 150.0 million
aggregate principal amount of senior notes due June 15, 2008 (the "Senior Notes
due 2008"). The Senior Notes due 2008 pay interest semi-annually in June and
December at a rate of 10.875% and 11.00% respectively. GTS (Europe) Ltd. may
redeem the Senior Notes due 2008, in whole or in part, any time on or after June
15, 2003, at a price ranging from 105.438% to 100.0% of the principal amount,
plus accrued and unpaid interest. GTS (Europe) Ltd. may redeem, at the Company's
option, up to 35% of the principal amount of each series of the 11.5% Senior
Notes due 2007, defined below, and Senior Notes due 2008 prior to December 15,
2000 and June 15, 2001, respectively, at prices equal to 111.50% of the
principal amount of the 11.5% Senior Notes due 2007, and 110.875% of the
principal amount of the Senior Notes due 2008, plus other amounts, with the net
cash proceeds of public equity offerings of GTS (Europe) Ltd. or strategic
equity investments of at least $50 million, provided that following such
redemption at least 65% of the principal amount of the notes remain outstanding.
In December 1997, the Company issued $230.0 million and DM 125.0 million
aggregate principal amount of senior notes due December 15, 2007 (the "11.5%
Senior Notes due 2007"). The 11.5% Senior Notes due 2007 rank pari-passu with
ordinary creditors with interest payable semi-annually in June and December at a
rate of 11.5%. Approximately $72.0 million and DM 36.0 million of the net
proceeds of the offering of the 11.5% Senior Notes due 2007 was initially placed
in escrow for the first six semi-annual payments commencing June 15, 1998. GTS
(Europe) Ltd. may redeem the 11.5% Senior Notes due 2007, in whole or in part,
any time on or after December 15, 2002 at redemption prices ranging from 105.75%
to 100.0% of the principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest.
The Company has two secured bank financing facilities through its UK and
Dutch subsidiaries at December 31, 1999. The total available under these
facilities at December 31, 1999 is $2.2 million. There were no outstanding
balances at December 31, 1999.
31
<PAGE> 32
GLOBAL TELESYSTEMS (EUROPE) LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
Aggregate maturities of long-term debt, as of December 31, 1999, are as
follows: 2000 -- $0.6 million, 2001 -- $0.6 million, 2002 -- $0.7 million,
2003 -- $0.6 million and $526.0 million thereafter.
The Company paid interest of $64.8 million, $53.6 million and $0.2 million
for the twelve months ended December 31, 1999 and 1998 and for the twelve months
ended September 30, 1997, respectively.
NOTE 6: STOCK OPTION PLANS
Prior to the March 4, 1999 business combination between the Company and GTS
as discussed in Note 1, the Company maintained various option plans each with
its own terms and conditions. Effective with the completion of this business
combination, all of the options within these plans were converted into rights to
receive GTS shares of common stock, based on the business combination exchange
ratio, with terms substantially identical to those of the Company's plans.
Generally, all options granted under the historical GTS (Europe) Ltd. stock
option plans vested after a minimum of one year after grant date. Of the
3,198,132 options converted, 1,856,910 were exercisable on March 4, 1999.
A summary of all transactions involving GTS (Europe) Ltd. stock options
which represent rights to GTS shares (expressed as equivalent GTS share options
and reflects the July 1999 GTS stock split) is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
TWELVE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, TWELVE MONTHS ENDED
-------------------------------------------- SEPTEMBER 30,
1999 1998 1997
--------------------- -------------------- --------------------
WEIGHTED WEIGHTED WEIGHTED
AVERAGE AVERAGE AVERAGE
EXERCISE EXERCISE EXERCISE
SHARES PRICE SHARES PRICE SHARES PRICE
---------- -------- --------- -------- --------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Outstanding at beginning of year........ 3,198,132 $ 3.86 2,325,172 $0.24 1,611,792 $0.04
Options granted......................... 166,536 24.19 1,498,712 5.39 1,130,964 1.22
Options exercised....................... (1,495,887) 3.00 (474,088) 0.47 (180,610) 0.04
Options canceled or expired............. (101,910) 11.19 (151,664) 4.49 (27,238) 0.04
---------- --------- ---------
Outstanding at end of year.............. 1,766,871 $ 7.57 3,198,132 $3.86 2,534,908 $0.24
========== ========= =========
</TABLE>
During 1999, stock options maintained under GTS's 1992 Stock Option Plan
were granted to certain employees of GTS (Europe) Ltd.
Prior to the business combination, certain of the stock option and
incentive plans of the Company have been accounted for under variable plan
accounting. Expense incurred under these plans totaled $0, $178,000 and $670,000
for the twelve months ended December 31, 1999, and 1998, and for the twelve
months ended September 30, 1997, respectively.
The Company applies the provisions of APB No. 25 in accounting for its
stock option incentive plans. The effect of applying SFAS No. 123 on the net
loss as reported is not representative of the effects on reported net loss for
future years due to the vesting period of the stock options and the fair value
of additional stock options in future years. Had compensation expense been
determined in accordance with the methodology of SFAS No. 123, the Company's net
loss for the twelve months ended December 31, 1999 and 1998 and for the twelve
months ended September 30, 1997 would have been approximately $341.7 million,
$108.7 million and $18.6 million, respectively.
These pro forma amounts may not be representative of future disclosures
since the estimated fair value of stock options is charged to expense over the
vesting period, and additional options may be granted in future years. The fair
value for these options was estimated at the date of grant using the
Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following assumptions for the years
ended December 31, 1999 and 1998, and September 30, 1997; dividend yields of 0%;
expected volatility of 75% for 1999, 100% for 1998 and 150% for
32
<PAGE> 33
GLOBAL TELESYSTEMS (EUROPE) LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
1997; weighted average interest rate of between 4.57% and 4.95% for 1999 and
4.4% for 1998, and a risk-free interest rate of 7.3% for 1997; expected lives of
options are between three and five years for all years presented.
The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
OPTIONS OUTSTANDING
------------------------------------
WEIGHTED OPTIONS EXERCISABLE
AVERAGE ----------------------
REMAINING WEIGHTED WEIGHTED
CONTRACTUAL AVERAGE AVERAGE
RANGE OF EXERCISE PRICE NUMBER LIFE EXERCISE NUMBER EXERCISE
AT DECEMBER 31, 1999: OUTSTANDING (IN YEARS) PRICE EXERCISABLE PRICE
- ----------------------- ----------- ----------- -------- ----------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$ 0.00 to $ 3.86 518,496 1.2 $ 0.75 440,916 $ 0.25
3.87 to 7.72 266,146 3.8 6.32 229,592 6.48
7.73 to 15.44 834,618 5.3 8.98 239,466 8.93
15.45 to 27.02 37,731 4.4 15.57 37,731 15.57
27.03 to 30.90 109,880 5.2 29.31 -- --
</TABLE>
NOTE 7: EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLAN
The Company does not have a defined benefit pension plan for its employees.
With respect to certain GTS (Europe) Ltd. employees, the Company is required to
contribute a fixed percentage, based upon the salary earned, to the employees'
nominated pension insurance policy or other pension arrangements. During the
twelve months ended December 31, 1999 and 1998 and the twelve months ended
September 30, 1997, the Company incurred expense of $0.4 million, $1.9 million
and $0.3 million, respectively, related to these pension arrangements.
NOTE 8: INCOME TAXES
A reconciliation of the tax provision at the statutory income tax rate and
the Company's actual benefit for income tax is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
TWELVE MONTHS ENDED TWELVE
DECEMBER 31, MONTHS ENDED
-------------------- SEPTEMBER 30,
1999 1998 1997
--------- -------- -------------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Expected tax rate................................. $(103,272) $(33,343) $(5,309)
Foreign exchange differences on quasi-investments
taken to shareholders' equity................... 1,889 1,646 256
Valuation reserve on loss from operations......... 101,386 31,700 5,056
--------- -------- -------
Income Tax Provision.............................. $ 3 $ 3 $ 3
========= ======== =======
</TABLE>
Deferred tax assets may be recognized for temporary differences that will
result in deductible amounts in future periods. The Company has provided a
valuation allowance against the full amount of the deferred tax assets arising
from tax loss carry forwards as management believes it is conservative to
consider it more likely than not that sufficient taxable income will not be
generated to utilize these loss carryforwards.
33
<PAGE> 34
GLOBAL TELESYSTEMS (EUROPE) LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
The components of the net deferred tax assets are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31,
------------------ SEPTEMBER 30,
1999 1998 1997
------- ------- -------------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss carryforwards................. $58,806 $45,718 $8,274
Other............................................ 418 418 --
------- ------- ------
Net deferred tax asset............................. 59,224 46,136 8,274
Less: valuation allowance........................ (59,224) (46,136) (8,274)
------- ------- ------
Total.................................... $ -- $ -- $ --
======= ======= ======
</TABLE>
As of December 31, 1999, the Company had net operating loss carryforwards
for U.K. income tax purposes of approximately $194.4 million.
NOTE 9: RESTRUCTURING CHARGE
During the fourth quarter of 1999, the Company recorded a $37.3 million
charge to earnings related to the integration and rationalization of its
switched-voice assets which is expected to increase efficiencies in the
Company's network infrastructure. At December 31, 1999 approximately $15.8
million remains an accrual for additional cash payments that the Company expects
to incur as part of the restructuring plan.
NOTE 10: COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Leases
The Company has various lease agreements for office space, fiber and
equipment. The obligations extend through 2018. Most of the leases contain
renewal options of one to four years. Assets under capital leases are included
in the consolidated balance sheets as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31,
------------------
1999 1998
------- -------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C>
Communications equipment.................................... $87,891 $40,126
Less: accumulated amortization.............................. 15,476 6,442
------- -------
$72,415 $33,684
======= =======
</TABLE>
Rental expense for operating leases aggregated $9.9 million, $3.6 million
and $1.1 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 1999 and 1998, and
September 30, 1997, respectively.
The Company and its subsidiaries are party to various operating leases for
dedicated switch access lines, dedicated national and international lines,
office space, furniture and office equipment which expires at various times
through to the year 2009.
34
<PAGE> 35
GLOBAL TELESYSTEMS (EUROPE) LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
Future minimum payments, by year and in the aggregate, under the capital
leases and non-cancelable operating leases with initial or remaining terms in
excess of one year as of December 31, 1999 were as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CAPITAL OPERATING
LEASES LEASES
-------- ---------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C>
December 31, 2000........................................... $ 24,926 $46,881
2001........................................................ 16,709 8,620
2002........................................................ 15,157 6,000
2003........................................................ 13,529 5,176
2004........................................................ 11,632 4,781
Thereafter.................................................. 39,793 11,865
-------- -------
Total minimum lease payments...................... 121,746 $83,323
=======
Less amount representing interest........................... 34,823
--------
Present value of net minimum lease payments................. 86,923
Less current portion of capital lease obligations........... 16,414
--------
Long-term portion of capital lease obligations.............. $ 70,509
========
</TABLE>
Other Commitments and Contingencies
The Company has future purchase commitments of $36.8 million and $34.9
million as of December 31, 1999 and 1998, respectively.
Tax Matters
In various foreign jurisdictions, the Company is obligated to pay value
added taxes ("VAT") on the purchase or importation of assets, and for certain
other transactions. In many instances, VAT can be offset against VAT the Company
collects and otherwise would remit to the tax authorities, or may be refundable.
Because the law in some jurisdictions is complex, the local tax authorities
could assert that the Company is obligated to pay additional amounts of VAT. In
the opinion of management, any additional VAT the Company may be obligated to
pay would not be material.
Other Matters
In the ordinary course of business, the Company may be party to various
legal and tax proceedings, and subject to claims, certain of which relate to the
developing markets and evolving fiscal and regulatory environments in which the
Company operates. In the opinion of management, the Company's liability, if any,
in all pending litigation, other legal proceeding or other matter other than
what is discussed above, will not have a material effect upon the financial
condition, results of operations or liquidity of the Company.
NOTE 11: RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
On April 14, 1999, the Company issued a subordinated promissory note to its
parent company, GTS, for L61.80 million ($100 million). Interest on the note
will accrue at 9% per annum until maturity. Interest and principal are due upon
maturity, which is June 16, 2008. In addition, GTS made capital contributions of
$87.5 million during 1999.
The Company had a receivable balance from affiliates of GTS of $23.8
million at December 31, 1999. There was no receivable balance from affiliates at
December 31, 1998. The Company had a payable balance to affiliates of $53.9
million at December 31, 1999. There was no payable balance from affiliates at
December 31, 1998.
35
<PAGE> 36
GLOBAL TELESYSTEMS (EUROPE) LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
The Company derived revenue from affiliates of $2.5 million for the year
ended December 31, 1999. Costs of revenue from affiliates were $27.2 million in
1999. Additionally, the Company incurred $6.4 million in interest expense from
affiliates in 1999.
NOTE 12: QUARTER ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997 (UNAUDITED)
As discussed in Note 1, GTS acquired all of the outstanding ordinary shares
and American Depositary Shares of the Company. As a result of this transaction,
the Company has changed its year-end to a calendar year end, with effect from
December 31, 1998. As a result, the financial results for the three months ended
December 31, 1997 have not been presented in the statement of operations.
Accordingly, an adjustment was made in the consolidated statements of
shareholders' equity for 1997 to include the net income and other transactions
of the Company for the three months ended December 31, 1997. In addition, as
reflected in the Company's consolidated statements of cash flows, the "Cash and
cash equivalents at the beginning of the year" for 1998 of $221.5 million and
"Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year," of $39.6 million, for the
twelve months ended September 30, 1997 do not agree. The $181.9 million
difference reflects the cash flow activity of the Company for the three month
period ended December 30, 1997. On September 24, 1999, the Company filed an 8-K
declaring a fiscal year-end change from September 30 to December 31.
NOTE 13: COMPANIES ACT 1985
These financial statements do not compromise the Company's statutory
accounts within the meaning of section 240 of the Companies Act 1985. Statutory
accounts for the years ended September 30, 1997 and 1998 have been, and
statutory accounts for the 15 months ended December 31, 1999 will be, delivered
to the Registrar of Companies for England and Wales. The auditors' reports on
these statutory accounts were unqualified.
NOTE 14: SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Esprit Telecom Group plc -- Name Change
Effective January 11, 2000, Esprit Telecom Group plc re-registered as a
private company and changed its name to Global TeleSystems (Europe) Limited.
36
<PAGE> 37
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
To: The Board of Directors
Global TeleSystems (Europe) Limited.
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of Global
TeleSystems (Europe) Limited. as of December 31, 1999 and the related
consolidated statements of operations, cash flows and shareholders'
equity/(deficit) for the year ended December 31, 1999. Our audit also included
the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 14(a). These
financial statements and schedule are the responsibility of the Company's
management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial
statements and schedule based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with auditing standards generally
accepted in the United States. Those standards require that we plan and perform
the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements
are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis,
evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An
audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant
estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis
for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly,
in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Global
TeleSystems (Europe) Limited, at December 31, 1999, and the consolidated results
of its operations and its consolidated cash flows for the year then ended, in
conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.
Also, in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule, when considered
in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly
in all material respects the information set forth therein.
ERNST & YOUNG
Reading, England
February 23, 2000
37
<PAGE> 38
REPORT OF PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS, INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of
Esprit Telecom Group plc
In our opinion, the consolidated balance sheet and the related consolidated
statements of income, shareholders' equity/(deficit), cash flows and
comprehensive loss present fairly, in all material respects, the financial
position of Esprit Telecom Group plc and its subsidiaries (the "Company") at
December 31,1998, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for
the twelve month period ended September 90, 1997 and the twelve month period
ended December 31,1998 in conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles in the United States. These financial statements are the
responsibility of the Company's management; our responsibility is to express an
opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our
audits of these financial statements and additional information related to the
valuation and qualifying accounts in accordance with United States generally
accepted auditing standards which require that we plan and perform the audit to
obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of
material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence
supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing
the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and
evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our
audits provide a reasonable basis for the opinion expressed above.
PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS
London, England
March 3, 1999
38
<PAGE> 39
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None.
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE COMPANY.
The following table sets forth the name, current business address,
citizenship and present principal occupation or employment, and material
occupations, positions, offices or employments and business addresses thereof
for the past five years of each director and executive officer of the Company.
Unless otherwise indicated, the current business address of each person is 151
Shaftsbury Avenue, London WC2H 8AL United Kingdom. There are no family
relationships among any of the directors and officers.
MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRESENT PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION OR EMPLOYMENT;
NAME AGE MATERIAL POSITIONS HELD DURING THE PAST FIVE YEARS
- ---- --- --------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Robert J. Amman................... 61 Mr. Amman was elected to GTS's Board of Directors in May
1998 and was appointed President of GTS in March 1999. Mr.
Amman was Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
of John H. Harland Company, a printing firm, from 1995 to
1998. Previously, from 1994 to 1995, he served as Vice
Chairman of First Financial Management Corporation, where
he was responsible for the merchant services businesses
consisting of Western Union, NaBanco, Telecheck,
Nationwide Credit and International Banking Technologies.
From 1988 to 1994, Mr. Amman served as President and Chief
Executive Officer of Western Union Corporation, where he
oversaw the transformation of the firm from a
telecommunications to a financial services company. Mr.
Amman is a member of the Executive Committee of the Board
of Directors of GTS.
Hans Peter Kohlhammer............. 53 Dr. Kohlhammer joined GTS as President of GTS Business
Services -- Western Europe on March 5, 1999. From October
1998 to March 1999, Dr. Kohlhammer was Managing Director
of Sales and Marketing of Esprit Telecom Group plc, which
was later acquired by GTS and renamed Global TeleSystems
(Europe) Limited. Prior to that, Dr. Kohlhammer was
Chairman of the Board at Thyssen Telecom AG and held a
Board position with Loewe Opta. Dr. Kohlhammer holds a
degree in mathematics and physics and a doctorate in
mathematics from the University of Bonn.
</TABLE>
39
<PAGE> 40
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRESENT PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION OR EMPLOYMENT;
NAME AGE MATERIAL POSITIONS HELD DURING THE PAST FIVE YEARS
- ---- --- --------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Peter Mitchell.................... 50 Mr. Mitchell joined GTS as Vice President Finance Business
Services in March 1999. From November 1998 to March 1999,
Mr. Mitchell was Managing Director of Esprit Telecom
Networks Ltd, a business unit of Esprit Telecom Group,
plc, which was later acquired by GTS and renamed Global
TeleSystems (Europe) Limited. Prior to that, from 1996 to
November 1998, Mr. Mitchell was Group Finance Director of
ComTel Limited, the UK cable television and telephony
subsidiary of Royal PTT Nederland N.V. During 1995 to
1996, Mr. Mitchell was Director of Corporate Finance for
TELUS Corporation, a Canadian telecommunications company.
Ernst Wessel...................... 36 Mr. Wessel joined GTS as Legal Director Business Services
Western Europe on March 5, 1999. From October 1996 until
March 1999, Mr Wessel was European Corporate Counsel of
Esprit Telecom Group plc, which was later acquired by GTS
and renamed Global TeleSystems (Europe) Limited. Prior to
that Mr Wessel worked as a associate specializing in
corporate law for the Commercial Legal Department of Ernst
& Young in The Netherlands and as an Advocate specializing
in commercial and bankruptcy law for the Dutch law firm
Jongeneel & partners. Mr Wessel is a qualified Dutch
lawyer and was admitted to the Bar of Rotterdam in 1995.
In addition Mr Wessel holds a LL.M. degree in
International Business Law from the university of Hull in
the UK.
</TABLE>
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRESENT PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION OR EMPLOYMENT;
NAME AGE MATERIAL POSITIONS HELD DURING THE PAST FIVE YEARS
- ---- --- --------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Hans Peter Kohlhammer........................... 53 See Biography Above
Peter Mitchell.................................. 50 See Biography Above
Ernst Wessel.................................... 36 See Biography Above
</TABLE>
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
COMPENSATION OF DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
The Directors of the Company did not receive any retainer or meeting fees
for serving in such capacity, other than their salaries for serving as officers
of the Company or GTS, as the case may be.
40
<PAGE> 41
SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
The following table sets forth each component of compensation paid or
awarded to, or earned by the three executive officers serving as of December 31,
1999.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
LONG-TERM
COMPENSATION
------------------------
AWARDS
ANNUAL COMPENSATION ------------------------
---------------------------------- RESTRICTED SECURITIES
OTHER ANNUAL STOCK UNDERLYING ALL OTHER
SALARY BONUS COMPENSATION AWARD(S) OPTIONS/SAR COMPENSATION
NAME AND PRINCIPAL POSITION YEAR ($) ($) ($) ($) (#) ($)
- --------------------------- ---- -------- -------- ------------ ---------- ----------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Hans Peter Kohlhammer................. 1999 $306,963 $169,474 $52,623(1) -- 429,546(3) 28,684(4)
President of Business Services
Peter Mitchell........................ 1999 $152,978 $ 36,307 (2) -- 43,302(3) 13,095(4)
Vice President of Business Services
Ernst Wessel.......................... 1999 $107,801 $ 14,727 $10,632(2) -- 63,676(3) 9,483(4)
Vice President and Legal Director,
European Operations
</TABLE>
- ---------------
(1) The amount disclosed includes transportation and travel allowance of
$29,268, social security and medical payment of $21,988 and pension
arrangements of $28,684.
(2) Perquisites and other personal benefits paid to the named executive officer
were less than the lesser of $50,000 and 10% of the total of salary and
bonus report for the named executive officer.
(3) Shares of GTS common stock underlying stock options awarded under the GTS
1992 Stock Option Plan.
(4) Amounts received from employer due to pension arrangement.
OPTION/SAR GRANTS IN LAST FISCAL YEAR
The following table provides information on stock option grants to the
three most highly compensated officers in 1999 under the Stock Option Plan.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
% OF TOTAL
NUMBER OF OPTIONS
SECURITIES GRANTED TO
UNDERLYING EMPLOYEES EXERCISE OR GRANT DATE
OPTIONS IN FISCAL BASE EXPIRATION PRESENT
NAME GRANTED(#) YEAR PRICE($/SH.) DATE VALUE($)(4)
- ---- ---------- ----------- ------------ ---------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Hans Peter Kohlhammer............. 496 0.00% $29.31 03/18/05(1) $ 984
150,000 1.17% 27.73 03/18/09(2) 1,553,310
50,000 0.39% 38.08 06/17/09(3) 517,575
100,000 0.78% 29.13 12/10/09(3) 1,245,230
Peter Mitchell.................... 202 0.00% 29.31 03/18/05(1) 401
7,500 0.06% 29.13 12/10/09(3) 93,392
Ernst Wessel...................... 402 0.00% 29.31 03/18/05(1) 798
20,000 0.16% 37.12 07/01/09(3) 184,942
20,000 0.16% 29.13 12/10/09(3) 249,046
</TABLE>
- ---------------
(1) These options are 100% vested after one year.
(2) These options vest in February 2005, when financial results for 2004 are
expected to be publicly announced. If certain performance targets are met or
exceeded, these options could be fully exercisable in February 2002, when
financial results for 2001 are expected to be publicly announced.
(3) Represents options that vest over a three year term, 33% after one year and
one thirty-sixth every month thereafter.
(4) The present value of each grant is estimated on the date of grant using the
Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions: dividend
yield 0%, expected volatility of 0.75, risk-free interest rates between
4.95% and 6.03% and an expected life of five years.
41
<PAGE> 42
AGGREGATED OPTION EXERCISES IN LAST FISCAL YEAR AND FY-END OPTION/SAR VALUES
The following table provides information on the number and value of stock
options exercised by the three most highly compensated officers during 1999, the
number of options under the Stock Option Plan held by such persons at December
31, 1999, and the value of all unexercised options held by such persons as of
that date.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NUMBER OF SECURITIES VALUE OF UNEXERCISED
SHARES UNDERLYING UNEXERCISED IN-THE-MONEY
ACQUIRED ON VALUE OPTIONS AT FY-END($)(1) OPTIONS AT FY-END(#)
NAME EXERCISE(#) REALIZED($) EXERCISABLE/UNEXERCISABLE EXERCISABLE/UNEXERCISABLE
- ---- ----------- ----------- ------------------------- -------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Hans Peter Kohlhammer....... -- -- 40,052/339,494 1,008,910/3,859,558
Peter Mitchell.............. -- -- -0-/43,302 -0-/1,279,250
Ernst Wessel................ -- -- 1,116/42,560 10,414/713,495
</TABLE>
- ---------------
(1) Based on the closing price of GTS common shares of $34.75 on the New York
Stock Exchange of the Common Stock on December 31, 1999.
THE FOURTH AMENDED AND RESTATED 1992 STOCK OPTION PLAN OF GLOBAL TELESYSTEMS
GROUP, INC.
The Fourth Amended and Restated 1999 Stock Option Plan of GTS (the "Fourth
and Amended and Restated Plan") provides for the grant of options to employees,
non-employee directors, and independent contractors of GTS and any subsidiary or
affiliate of GTS.
Up to 18.5% of the outstanding shares of Common Stock, from time to time,
are authorized to be granted as options under the Fourth Amended and Restated
Plan. A total of approximately 34.1 million shares of common stock (the "Common
Stock") of GTS were reserved for issuance to employees, non-employee directors
and independent contractors under the Fourth Amended and Restated Plan
representing 18.5% of the outstanding shares of Common Stock on December 31,
1999. A total of 1 million shares of Common Stock may be issued pursuant to
options qualifying for tax purposes as incentive options under the Fourth
Amended and Restated Plan.
The Fourth Amended and Restated Plan is administered by the Compensation
Committee of the Board of Directors of GTS (or a sub-committee thereof), which
consists of not less than two directors appointed by the Board of Directors of
GTS. The Compensation Committee (or a sub-committee) selects the employees,
independent contractors and directors of GTS and its subsidiaries and affiliates
to whom options will be granted. Options covering not more than 1.5 million
shares of Common Stock may be granted to any employee during any calendar year.
The option exercise price under the Fourth Amended and Restated Plan may
not be less than the exercise price determined by the Compensation Committee (or
a sub-committee) (or 110% of the fair market value of the Common Stock on the
date of grant of the option in the case of an incentive option granted to an
optionee beneficially owning more than 10% of the outstanding Common Stock). The
maximum option term is 10 years and one day (or five years in the case of an
incentive option granted to an optionee beneficially owning more than 10% of the
outstanding Common Stock). Options become vested and exercisable at the time and
to the extent provided in the option agreement related to such option. The
Compensation Committee (or a sub-committee) has the discretion to accelerate the
vesting and exercisability of options.
There is a $100,000 limit on the value of stock (determined at the time of
grant) covered by incentive options that first become exercisable by an optionee
in any calendar year. No option may be granted more than 10 years after the
effective date of the Fourth Amended and Restated Plan. Generally, during an
optionee's lifetime, only the optionee (or a guardian or committee if the
optionee is incapacitated) may exercise an option except that, upon approval by
the Compensation Committee (or a sub-committee), nonqualified options may be
transferred to the spouse of the optionee and certain nonqualified options may
be granted or transferred to the GTS Employee Stock Option Plan Trust for the
benefit of one or more designated foreign employees, independent contractors or
directors. Incentive stock options are non-transferable except at death.
42
<PAGE> 43
Payment for shares purchased under options granted pursuant to the Fourth
Amended and Restated Plan may be made either in cash or by exchanging shares of
Common Stock (which shares have been held by the optionee for at least six
months) with a fair market value of up to the total option exercise price and
cash for any difference. Options may be exercised by directing that certificates
for the shares purchased be delivered to a licensed broker-dealer as agent for
the optionee, provided that the broker-dealer tenders to GTS cash or cash
equivalents equal to the option exercise price plus the amount of any taxes that
GTS may be required to withhold in connection with the exercise of the option.
If an optionee's employment or service with GTS or a subsidiary or
affiliate terminates by reason of death, retirement or permanent and total
disability, his or her vested options may be exercised within one year after
such death, retirement or disability, unless otherwise provided with respect to
a particular option (but not later than the date the option would otherwise
expire). If the optionee's employment or service with GTS or a subsidiary or
affiliate terminates for any reason other than death, retirement or disability,
options held by such optionee terminate 90 days after such termination, unless
otherwise provided with respect to a particular option (but not later than the
date the options would otherwise expire), except that options terminate
immediately upon termination of an employee or independent contractor for
"cause" (as defined), unless the Compensation Committee (or a
sub-committee)determines otherwise. Each option would be exercisable to the
extent it had become vested before the termination of employment or service
(unless otherwise provided in the option agreement).
If the outstanding shares of Common Stock are increased or decreased or
changed into or exchanged for a different number or kind of shares or securities
of GTS, by reason of merger, consolidation, reorganization, recapitalization,
reclassification, stock split-up, combination of shares, exchange of shares,
stock dividend, spin-off or other distribution payable in capital stock, or
other increase or decrease in such shares without receipt of consideration by
GTS, an appropriate and proportionate adjustment will be made in the number and
kinds of shares subject to the Fourth Amended and Restated Plan, and in the
number, kinds and per share exercise price of shares subject to the unexercised
portion of options granted prior to any such change, in order to preserve the
value of any granted options. Any such adjustment in an outstanding option,
however, will be made without a change in the total price applicable to the
unexercised portion of the option, but with a corresponding adjustment in the
per share option price.
Upon any dissolution or liquidation of GTS, or upon a reorganization,
merger or consolidation in which GTS is not the surviving corporation, or upon
the sale of substantially all of the assets of GTS to another corporation, or
upon any transaction (including, without limitation, a merger or reorganization
in which GTS is the surviving corporation) approved by the board of directors
which results in any person or entity owning 80% or more of the total combined
voting power of all classes of stock of GTS, the Fourth Amended and Restated
Plan and the options issued thereunder will terminate, unless provision is made
in connection with such transaction for the continuation of the Fourth Amended
and Restated Plan, the assumption of such options or for the substitution for
such options of new options covering the stock of a successor corporation or a
parent or subsidiary thereof, with appropriate adjustments as to the number and
kinds of shares and the per share exercise price. In the event of such
termination, all outstanding options shall be exercisable in full during such
period immediately prior to the occurrence of such termination as the Board of
Directors of GTS in its discretion shall determine.
The board of directors may further amend the Fourth Amended and Restated
Plan with respect to shares of the Common Stock as to which options have not
been granted. However, GTS's stockholders must approve any amendment that would
(1) change the requirements as to eligibility to receive incentive options; or
(2) increase the maximum number of shares in the aggregate for which incentive
options may be granted (except for adjustments upon changes in capitalization);
or (3) otherwise to the extent required by applicable law, rule or regulation.
The Board of Directors of GTS at any time may terminate or suspend the
Fourth Amended and Restated Plan. Unless previously terminated, the Fourth
Amended and Restated Plan will terminate automatically on April 9, 2008. No
termination, suspension or amendment of the Fourth Amended and Restated Plan
may,
43
<PAGE> 44
without the consent of the person to whom an option has been granted, adversely
affect the rights of the holder of the option.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The Company is wholly owned subsidiary of Global TeleSystems Group, Inc.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
On April 14, 1999, the Company issued a subordinated promissory note to its
parent company, GTS, for L61.80 million ($100 million). Interest on the note
will accrue at 9% per annum until maturity. Interest and principal are due upon
maturity, which is June 16, 2008. In addition, GTS made capital contributions of
$87.5 million during 1999.
The Company had a receivable balance from affiliates of GTS of $23.8
million at December 31, 1999. There was no receivable balance from affiliates at
December 31, 1998. The Company had a payable balance to affiliates of $53.9
million at December 31, 1999. There was no payable balance from affiliates at
December 31, 1998.
The Company derived revenue from affiliates of $2.5 million for the year
ended December 31, 1999. Costs of revenue from affiliates were $27.2 million in
1999. Additionally, the Company incurred $6.4 million in interest expense from
affiliates in 1999.
44
<PAGE> 45
PART IV
ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
(a) The following documents are filed as part of this report:
1. Financial Statements
The following consolidated financial statements of the Company are included
in Part II, Item 8 of this report:
- Report of Ernst & Young, Independent Auditors
- Report of PricewaterhouseCoopers, Independent Accountants
- Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 1999 and 1998
- Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Twelve Months Ended
December 31, 1999 and 1998 and for the Twelve Months Ended September 30,
1997
- Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Twelve Months Ended
December 31, 1999 and 1998 and for the Twelve Months Ended September 30,
1997
- Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Equity for the Twelve
Months Ended December 31, 1999 and 1998 and for the Twelve Months Ended
September 30, 1997
- Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
2. Consolidated Financial Statement Schedules
We have furnished Schedule II -- Valuation and Qualifying Accounts on Page
48.
All other schedules are omitted because they are not applicable or not
required, or because the required information is either incorporated herein by
reference or included in the financial statements or notes thereto included in
this report.
(b) Reports on Form 8-K
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DATE OF REPORT SUBJECT OF REPORT
- -------------- -----------------
<S> <C>
September 30, 1999..... On September 24, 1999, the Board of Directors determined
that it would adopt a new fiscal year ending December 31 in
order to conform to its parent company, GTS.
</TABLE>
45
<PAGE> 46
(c) Exhibits
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DESIGNATION DESCRIPTION
----------- -----------
<C> <S>
3.1* -- Articles of Association, as amended.
4.1 -- [reserved]
4.2** -- Form of Dollar Exchange Note (contained in the Indenture
filed as Exhibit 4.5).
4.3 -- [reserved]
4.4** -- Form of DM Exchange Note (contained in the Indenture
filed as Exhibit 4.5).
4.5** -- Indenture, dated June 24, 1998, between the Company and
The Bank of New York, as Trustee.
4.6 -- [reserved]
4.7*** -- Form of Dollar Note (contained in the Indenture filed as
Exhibit 4.9).
4.8*** -- Form of Dollar Note (contained in the Indenture filed as
Exhibit 4.9).
4.9*** -- Indenture dated December 18, 1997 between the Company and
The Bank of New York, as trustee, Registrar and Paying
Agent.
99.7**** -- Supplemental Indenture, dated December 23, 1998 of
$230,000,000 11 1/2% Senior Notes due 2007, supplementing
the indenture dated as of December 18, 1997, among Esprit
Telecom Group, PLC, as Issuer, and The Bank of New York,
as Trustee, Registrar and Paying Agent.
99.8**** -- Supplemental Indenture, dated December 23, 1998 of DM
150,000,000 11% Senior Notes due 2008, supplementing the
indenture dated as of June 24, 1998, among Esprit Telecom
Group, PLC, as Issuer and The Bank of New York, as
Trustee, Registrar and Paying Agent.
99.9**** -- Supplemental Indenture dated December 23, 1998 of
$150,000,000 10 7/8% Senior Notes due 2008, supplementing
the indenture dated as of June 24, 1998, among Esprit
Telecom Group, PLC, as Issuer, and The Bank of New York,
as Trustee, Registrar and Paying Agent.
99.10**** -- Supplemental Indenture, dated December 23, 1998 of DM
125,000,000 11 1/2% Senior Notes due 2007, supplementing
the indenture dated as of December 18, 1997, among Esprit
Telecom Group, PLC, as Issuer, and The Bank of New York,
as Trustee, Registrar and Paying Agent.
21.1+ -- List of Subsidiaries.
27.1+ -- Financial Data Schedule extracted from December 31, 1999
audited financial statements.
</TABLE>
- ---------------
* Incorporated by reference to the correspondingly numbered exhibit to the
Company's Form F-1 registration statement, (Commission File No. 333-8012).
** Incorporated by reference to the correspondingly numbered Exhibit to the
Company's registration statement on Form F-4 (Commission File No.
333-9272).
*** Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Company's registration
statement on Form F-1 (Commission File No. 333-8012).
**** Incorporated by reference on the correspondingly numbered exhibit to the
Registration Statement on Form S-4 of Global TeleSystems Group, Inc.
(Commission File No. 333-68511).
+ Filed herewith.
46
<PAGE> 47
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on
its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of London,
United Kingdom, on this 30th day of March, 2000.
GLOBAL TELESYSTEMS (EUROPE), LIMITED
By: /s/ PETER MITCHELL
------------------------------------
Name: Peter Mitchell
Title: Vice President -- Finance
Business Services and
Principal Accounting Officer
Each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints, Robert
A. Schriesheim, Grier C. Raclin and Arnold Y. Dean and each of them singly, as
his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents with full power of substitution
and resubstitution, for him, and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities to sign any and all amendments and supplements to this annual report
on Form 10-K and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and all other
documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission,
granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do
and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done, as
full to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby
ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents or their
substitute or substitutes may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue thereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this
report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the
registrant and in the capacities indicated on the 30th day of March, 2000.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIGNATURE TITLE
--------- -----
<C> <S>
/s/ PETER MITCHELL Vice President -- Finance of Business
- ----------------------------------------------------- Services and Director
Peter Mitchell
/s/ HANS PETER KOHLHAMMER President of Business Services and Director
- -----------------------------------------------------
Hans Peter Kohlhammer
/s/ ERNST WESSELL Vice President and Legal Director, European
- ----------------------------------------------------- Operations
Ernst Wessell
/s/ ROBERT AMMAN Director
- -----------------------------------------------------
Robert Amman
</TABLE>
47
<PAGE> 48
SCHEDULE II -- VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COL. A COL. B COL. C COL. D COL. E
- ------------------------------------------ ---------- ----------------------- ---------- ----------
ADDITIONS
-----------------------
BALANCE AT CHARGED TO CHARGED TO BALANCE AT
BEGINNING COSTS AND OTHER END
DESCRIPTION OF PERIOD EXPENSES ACCOUNTS DEDUCTIONS OF PERIOD
- ----------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Allowance for doubtful accounts at
12/31/99................................ 3,993 27,188 (2,326) 28,855
Allowance for doubtful accounts at
12/31/98................................ 2,389 2,837 (1,233) 3,993
Allowance for doubtful accounts at
09/30/97................................ 267 2,005 (178) 2,094
</TABLE>
The Company changed its fiscal year end from September 30 to December 31.
Accordingly the ending balance at 9/30/97 does not match the beginning balance
at 12/31/98.
48
<PAGE> 49
EXHIBIT INDEX
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT
NUMBER DESCRIPTION
- ------- -----------
<S> <C>
27.1 Financial Data Schedule extracted from December 31, 1999 audited financial statements.
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM 12/31/99
AUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENT AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY
REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> DEC-31-1999
<PERIOD-START> JAN-01-1999
<PERIOD-END> DEC-31-1999
<CASH> 16,936
<SECURITIES> 0
<RECEIVABLES> 144,955
<ALLOWANCES> 28,855
<INVENTORY> 0
<CURRENT-ASSETS> 211,965
<PP&E> 288,810
<DEPRECIATION> (74,721)
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 1,030,444
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES> 291,207
<BONDS> 719,569
0
0
<COMMON> 1,975
<OTHER-SE> 34,715
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY> 1,030,444
<SALES> 0
<TOTAL-REVENUES> 351,697
<CGS> 0
<TOTAL-COSTS> 324,385
<OTHER-EXPENSES> 295,477
<LOSS-PROVISION> 27,188
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 73,947
<INCOME-PRETAX> (341,394)
<INCOME-TAX> 3
<INCOME-CONTINUING> (341,397)
<DISCONTINUED> 0
<EXTRAORDINARY> 0
<CHANGES> 0
<NET-INCOME> (341,397)
<EPS-BASIC> (2.71)
<EPS-DILUTED> (2.71)
</TABLE>
