<PAGE>
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
(Mark one)
| | REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b)
OR (g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
OR
|X| ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended: March 31, 1999
OR
| | TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13
OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
for the transition period from to
Commission file number 1-14917
------------------------------
MIH Limited
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
British Virgin Islands
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
Abbot Building
Mount Street
Tortola
Road Town
British Virgin
Islands
(Address of principal executive offices)
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act.
None
------------------------------
(Title of Class)
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act.
Class A Ordinary Shares, $1.00 par value per share
--------------------------------------------------
(Title of Class)
Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d)
of the Act.
None
------------------------------
(Title of Class)
Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer's classes of
capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual
report.
Class A Ordinary Shares: 7,447,681
Class B Ordinary Shares: 30,787,319
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has 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) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes |X| No | |
Indicate by check mark which financial statement item the Registrant has elected
to follow.
Item 17 | | Item 18 |X|
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART I Page
Item 1 Description of Business ...................................... 01
Item 2 Description of Property ...................................... 30
Item 3 Legal Proceedings ............................................ 30
Item 4 Control of Registrant ........................................ 30
Item 5 Nature of Trading Market ..................................... 31
Item 6 Exchange Controls and Other Limitations Affecting
Security Holders ............................................. 31
Item 7 Taxation ..................................................... 31
Item 8 Selected Financial Data ...................................... 31
Item 9 Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations .......................... 34
Item 9A Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk ... 45
Item 10 Directors and Officers of Registrant ......................... 45
Item 11 Compensation of Directors and Officers ....................... 47
Item 12 Options to Purchase Securities from Registrant or
Subsidiaries ................................................. 48
Item 13 Interest of Management in Certain Transactions ............... 48
PART III
Item 15 Defaults upon Senior Securities .............................. 49
Item 16 Changes in Securities and Changes in Security for
Registered Securities ........................................ 49
PART IV
Item 17 Financial Statements ..................................... 49
Item 18 Financial Statements ..................................... 49
Item 19 Financial Statements and Exhibits ........................ 50
<PAGE>
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This Annual Report contains "forward-looking statements" as defined in the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements
are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the
Company's control. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by the
words "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "intend", "estimate" and similar
expressions. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained
in this Annual Report, including, without limitation, the statements under "Item
1. Description of Business", "Item 3. Legal Proceedings" and "Item 9.
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations" and located elsewhere herein regarding industry prospects and the
Company's results of operations or financial position are forward-looking
statements. Actual results could differ materially from those contemplated by
these forward-looking statements as a result of factors such as product and
service development, market acceptance risks, the impact of competitive
products, services and pricing, the result of current and future programming
agreements and regulatory relationships, the results of financing efforts, the
pursuit and consummation of certain acquisitions and developments regarding
intellectual property rights and litigation. In light of these risks and
uncertainties, there can be no assurance that the results and events
contemplated by the forward-looking information contained in this Annual Report
will in fact transpire. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on
these forward-looking statements.
EXCHANGE RATE DATA
The Company's businesses utilize many functional currencies, principally
South African rand, Greek drachmae, Thai baht and U.S. dollars. For the
convenience of the reader, certain amounts contained in this Annual Report and
not derived from the Financial Statements (as defined herein) have been
translated from various functional currencies into U.S. dollars. These
translated amounts should not be construed as a representation that the
functional currency amounts actually represent such U.S. dollar amounts or could
be, or could have been, converted into U.S. dollars at the rates indicated below
or at any other rate. Translations appearing in this document of: (i) rand to
dollars have been conducted at a rate of $1.00 = ZAR 6.17; (ii) drachmae to
dollars have been conducted at a rate of $1.00 = GRD 301.86; and (iii) baht to
dollars have been conducted at a rate of $1.00 = Baht 37.58. These rates of
exchange reflect the noon buying rate in New York City for cable transfers in
foreign currencies as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank
of New York as of March 31, 1999.
CERTAIN DEFINITIONS
"Acquired MIH Businesses" means NetHold's pay-television businesses in Africa,
Cyprus, Greece and the Middle East acquired by the Company in the Canal+
Transaction, along with Irdeto.
"AMM" means Asia Multimedia Company Limited, a subsidiary of Telecom Asia.
"baht" means the Thai baht, the functional currency of the Kingdom of Thailand.
"Canal+" means Canal Plus S.A., a leading pay-television operator in Europe.
"Canal+ Transaction" means the March 1997 transaction in which the Company sold
its interest in NetHold to Canal+ in exchange for a 5% equity interest in Canal+
and all of NetHold's pay-television businesses in Africa, Cyprus, Greece and the
Middle East.
"CBSat" means the China Broadcasting Film and Television Satellite Co. Ltd.
"Cineplex" means Cineplex Company Limited, the programming subsidiary of UBC.
"CNE" means Cable Network Egypt, a terrestrial analog pay-television operator in
Egypt.
"Combined Statements" means the Combined Financial Statements for the Acquired
MIH Businesses.
"Company" means MIH Limited, together with its subsidiaries, joint ventures and
associates.
"Consolidated Statements" means the Consolidated Financial Statements of the
Company.
"drachma(e)" or "GRD" means Greek drachma(e), the functional currency of Greece.
"ERT" means Greek Radio Television S.A., the state-owned broadcasting entity in
Greece.
"Financial Statements" means the Combined Statements and the Consolidated
Statements.
"IAS" means international accounting standards issued by the International
Accounting Standards Committee.
1
<PAGE>
"IBS" means the brand name of Mindport's proprietary customer care and billing
system.
"Irdeto" means the Company's technology division other than OpenTV, comprising
principally Irdeto Access B.V. and Mindport Integrated Business Systems B.V.,
both wholly owned subsidiaries of Mindport B.V.
"Johnnic" means Johnnic (IOM) Limited, a current holder of 9% of the Ordinary
Shares.
"JSE" means the Johannesburg Stock Exchange.
"Lumiere" means Lumiere Television Limited, a Cypriot investor that is the
Company's minority partner in MultiChoice Cyprus.
"Lumiere Services" means Lumiere Services Limited, a Cypriot investor that is
the Company's minority partner in NetMed Hellas.
"M-Cell" means M-Cell Limited, the investment holding company of a leading
cellular telephone provider in South Africa.
"M-Net Ltd." means Electronic Media Network Limited, the company that produces
the premium film channel carried by the Company's pay-television services in
Africa.
"M-Web" means M-Web Holdings Limited, the leading Internet on-line service
provider in South Africa.
"MCOT" means the Mass Communications Organization of Thailand, one of the two
primary media regulators in Thailand.
"Memorandum" and "Articles" means the MIH Limited's Memorandum and Articles of
Association.
"MIH Holdings" means MIH Holdings Limited, the indirect holder of all of the
Class B Ordinary Shares.
"MIH Investments" means MIH Investments (Proprietary) Limited, the holder of a
majority of MIH Holdings' shares.
"Mindport" means Mindport B.V. and its subsidiaries together with OpenTV, being
the Company's technology division.
"MTN" means Mobile Telephone Networks (Proprietary) Limited.
"MultiChoice Africa" means MultiChoice Africa (Proprietary) Limited.
"MultiChoice Cyprus" means MultiChoice Cyprus Limited.
"MultiChoice Egypt" means MultiChoice Egypt Limited.
"MultiChoice Hellas" means MultiChoice Hellas S.A.
"MultiChoice Middle East Holdings" means MultiChoice Middle East Holdings Inc.
"MultiChoice Middle East" means MultiChoice Middle East Inc.
"Nasdaq" means the Nasdaq National Market.
"Naspers" means Naspers Limited, a JSE-listed company that owns all of the
voting stock of MIH Investments.
"NetHold" means NetHold B.V., the holding company through which the Company held
its interest in the Acquired MIH Businesses prior to the Canal+ Transaction.
"NetMed" means NetMed B.V. and its subsidiaries, the subsidiaries through which
the Company conducts its pay-television operations in Greece and Cyprus.
"NetMed Hellas" means NetMed Hellas S.A.
"OpenTV" means OpenTV, Inc., the Company's subsidiary that produces software for
interactive television.
"Orbicom" means Orbicom (Proprietary) Limited.
"Ordinary Shares" means the Class A Ordinary Shares and the Class B Ordinary
Shares.
"RTBA" means the Thai Radio and Television Broadcasting Act of BE 2498 (AD
1955).
"SABC" means the South African Broadcasting Corporation, the state-owned
broadcaster in South Africa.
2
<PAGE>
"Securities Act" means the U.S. Securities Act of 1933.
"SG&A" means selling, general and administrative costs.
"South Africa" means the Republic of South Africa.
"SSIH" means SuperSport International Holdings Limited, the company that
produces the sports channels carried by the Company's pay-television services in
Africa.
"Sub-Saharan Africa" means countries in the sub-Saharan African region excluding
South Africa.
"Telecom Asia" means Telecom Holding Company Limited.
"Thomson" means Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc.
"TPS" means Television par Satellite, a digital satellite pay-television
operator in France.
"UBC" means United Broadcasting Corporation Public Company Limited, formerly the
International Broadcasting Corporation Public Company Limited, the Company's
Thailand joint venture.
"UBC Cable" means UBC Cable Network Public Company Limited, a subsidiary of UBC.
"UBC Group" means UBC and its subsidiaries.
"U.S. dollar", "dollar" or "$" means the United States dollar, the functional
currency of the United States of America.
"US GAAP" means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States.
"ZAR" or "rand" means South African rand, the functional currency of the
Republic of South Africa.
3
<PAGE>
PART I
ITEM 1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS
BUSINESS
General
MIH Limited (together with its subsidiaries, joint ventures and
associates, the "Company") is a multinational provider of pay-television
platform services and pay-television technology. By leveraging its management
and industry expertise, the Company plans to expand beyond its current services
to become a recognized worldwide provider of a full array of pay-media content
and services over a variety of electronic platforms, including television
platforms, Internet and interactive television. From their significant
experience in providing pay-television services, the Company's management has
developed a comprehensive understanding of pay-media and other subscriber-based
businesses, particularly in the areas of subscriber, content and platform
management. Through its strategic application of these core competencies and its
proven business model, the Company has grown to become the leading provider of
television platform services in each of its markets. By continuing to leverage
these abilities, the Company plans to expand its television platform services
into new regions and provide new services and products, such as those relating
to the Internet and interactive television services.
From its origins as the leading provider of television platform services
in South Africa, the Company has grown, through its subsidiaries and joint
ventures, to provide terrestrial analog, digital satellite and other television
platform services to over 1.9 million households in Africa, the Mediterranean
and Asia. The Company's Mindport technology division provides pay-media
companies worldwide with proprietary software and hardware solutions for
subscriber management, conditional access and other pay-television related
services. Mindport is also a leading provider of interactive television
operating systems through OpenTV.
Television platforms
The Company operates its television platform businesses in three major
regions: Africa, the Mediterranean and Asia. In each region, the Company has
implemented a strategy that emphasizes being the leading supplier of television
platform services, obtaining exclusive programming, continually improving its
customer care and offering new services and technology, such as interactive
television. Through the application of its core competencies, the Company has
developed the leading pay-television service in each of its operating regions.
These businesses were generally started as single-channel analog services, which
provide the market presence and subscriber base for the Company to launch
multi-channel digital and interactive services. The Company currently provides
analog platform service in each of these regions and provides digital platform
service in Africa and Asia. The Company is ready to provide digital platform
service in the Mediterranean upon the execution of a Concession Agreement that
is required by the terms of the license that MultiChoice Hellas has received
from the Greek government for the provision of pay radio and television services
via satellite.
The following table sets forth the services offered and subscriber numbers
for the Company's pay-television subsidiaries and joint ventures by region and
service:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Launch Subscribers as of
Date Service March 31, 1999
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Africa
South Africa ........... 1986 M-Net (analog) ....................... 802,079
........................ 1995 DStv (digital) ....................... 271,088
Sub-Saharan Africa ..... 1991 M-Net (analog) ....................... 53,862
........................ 1996 DStv (digital) ....................... 86,315
Egypt and Middle East .. various Subscriber management(1) ............. 91,563
Mediterranean
Cyprus ................. 1993/1997 LTV/Alfa (analog) .................... 34,824
Greece ................. 1994/1996/1997 FilmNet/SuperSport/K-T.V.(analog) .... 315,674
........................ 1999(2) Nova (digital) ....................... N/A
Asia
Thailand ............... 1989 UBC MMDS(3) (analog) ................. --
........................ 1995 UBC Cable (analog) ................... 147,515
........................ 1995 UBC Satellite (digital) .............. 152,696
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
(1) Pay-television platforms operated by third parties.
(2) Expected. See "-Television Platforms-Mediterranean."
(3) Phased out in February 1999.
4
<PAGE>
The Company believes that two of the reasons it is the leading
pay-television platform operator in each of the markets it serves are its
exclusive, high quality content and its early introduction of emerging
technologies. In most of its markets, the Company has exclusive pay-television
rights to transmit premium movies, major sporting events and popular children's
programming. The Company believes that access to this programming gives it the
content necessary to attract and retain subscribers and grow its pay-media
services. The Company believes that its core competency in technology, drawn in
large part from Mindport, is an important component of its business and a key
strategic advantage.
Since beginning operations in 1986, the Company has experienced
significant growth in the number of its subscribers, revenue per subscriber and
total television platform revenue. As of March 31, 1999, the Company's
consolidated television platform operations (excluding Asia and the Middle East,
which are not consolidated) had approximately 1.59 million subscribers, as
compared to 1.47 million, 1.36 million and 1.14 million subscribers as of March
31, 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively. Also, the average revenue generated by
these television platform subscribers per month was approximately $24.12 during
the year ended March 31, 1999 compared to approximately $23.90, $21.10 and
$18.63 during the years ended March 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively. For
the year ended March 31, 1999, the Company's consolidated television platform
operations generated subscriber revenues of $442.7 million compared to $404.5
million, $315.5 million and $233.3 million for the years ended March 31, 1998,
1997 and 1996, respectively.
Technology
The Company's technology division, Mindport, provides a comprehensive
package of technology products and support services to pay-media operators
worldwide. Mindport seeks to capitalize upon the pay-media industry's evolution
from analog to digital and then to interactive and Internet services. This
adoption of new technologies has generated the need for increasingly complex,
integrated and scalable software and hardware that Mindport provides. In
addition, by taking advantage of the Company's experience in operating pay-media
businesses, Mindport has been able to improve its products and offer highly
advanced and complete solutions to third-party platform operators. Mindport's
customers include some of the leading international pay-media companies, such as
EchoStar, BSkyB, Canal+, Galaxy Latin America, TPS, Via Digital, Foxtel and
DirecTV Japan, as well as the Company's African and Mediterranean pay-television
businesses. The Company also recently signed an agreement to provide
pay-television technology to the China Broadcasting Film and Television
Satellite Co. Ltd. ("CBSat"), a subsidiary of China Central Television, which is
preparing to distribute their digital television signals to rural areas in the
People's Republic of China.
The Mindport product line includes subscriber management systems,
conditional access systems, interactive television operating software, content
management systems, set-top box design and specification and consulting
services. The Company believes its subscriber management system, marketed under
the IBS brandname, provides the critical scalability and system adaptability
necessary to meet the growing needs of pay-television operators, Internet
service providers and data broadcasters worldwide. Irdeto Access, Mindport's
conditional access unit, provides encryption and decoding systems to
pay-television operators. OpenTV develops and sells operating systems for
interactive television, the first generation of which is running on several
television platforms.
Internet
The Company believes that the Internet business is complementary to its
existing businesses and a natural extension of its core competencies of
subscriber, content and platform management. By leveraging its subscriber-based
pay-media expertise, the Company plans to offer a range of Internet services,
including Internet access, content aggregation and subscriber management, both
within certain of its current pay-television markets and in new markets. The
Company's first investment in the Internet business occurred with its
acquisition, development and ultimate spin-off of M-Web Holdings Limited
("M-Web"), the leading Internet service provider in South Africa, which is now a
publicly-listed affiliate of the Company. The Company has recently announced its
intention to make an investment of up to 10% in M-Web through a private
placement See "-The Company-Affiliates". In addition, the Company has expanded
its Internet interests into Asia through its acquisition in July 1999 of
Sanook.com, a large Thai Internet portal.
Objectives and Strategy
The Company seeks to strengthen its current position as a worldwide
provider of television platform services and related technologies and to become
a recognized multinational provider of a full array of content and pay-media
services over a variety of platforms, including Internet and interactive
television. In addition, the Company seeks to become a leader in the supply of
pay-media technology and customer care products and services. Specifically, the
Company is pursuing the following three objectives:
o Build Out Current Markets. In each of its existing markets, the Company
plans to fully develop its television platform business by enhancing its
platforms to offer a full complement of services including analog,
digital, interactive and Internet services. The Company also plans to
further grow its subscriber base
5
<PAGE>
by achieving higher levels of penetration within its current addressable
markets as well as taking advantage of favorable demographic trends.
o Expand Into New Markets. The Company seeks to take advantage of its
management expertise and experience by expanding into new markets,
particularly emerging pay-media markets. Being an early entrant into these
markets helps the Company secure transmission frequencies and exclusive
programming and build strong relationships with subscribers and local
affiliates. This expansion is likely to be accomplished through
investments in and acquisitions of existing businesses, including
television platform systems and Internet service providers.
o Develop Leading Technology Company. The Company intends to build Mindport
into a leading technology company that develops and sells software and
designs hardware that support pay-media businesses worldwide. Mindport
will continue to benefit from the Company's experience as a pay-media
operator and build its technology base through internal research and
development and strategic acquisitions.
In pursuing these objectives and drawing on its core competencies, the
Company intends to implement the following strategies:
o Provide Exclusive, High Quality Content. In most markets in which the
Company operates its television platform business, it has the exclusive
rights to provide popular sporting events and first-run motion pictures
from the major studios. In certain regions, the Company includes local
free-to-air networks on its digital platform, thereby creating a
well-rounded channel selection. The Company believes that providing
exclusive, high quality content is the key to establishing and growing its
pay-media businesses and intends to obtain such rights in its new markets
and maintain such rights in its existing markets.
o Provide Leading Edge Platforms. The Company consistently strives to
improve the quality of its television platform services by taking
advantage of technological developments. In each of its operating regions,
the Company provides, or is planning to provide, digital service, which
generally features many more channels than its existing analog services,
with greater picture clarity and sound quality. The next major enhancement
of the Company's business will be the introduction of interactive
services. The Company is already offering an electronic programming guide
that is currently accessible by all digital subscribers in South Africa,
Sub-Saharan Africa and Thailand and expects to begin implementing in most
of its regions other interactive services such as pull-down menus in late
1999, and some time thereafter, web browsing, e-mail, gaming, home
shopping and home banking. The Company believes that these enhanced
services will provide it with significant new sources of revenue and
generally higher margins from its current customer base and will attract
new subscribers.
o Provide High Quality Service. The Company views its business as primarily
a service business and, accordingly, places great emphasis on providing
high quality customer service. The Company believes this helps build
customer loyalty and reduce churn. The Company seeks to achieve high
quality customer service by operating walk-in service centers and
utilizing computer systems equipped with Mindport's advanced IBS
subscriber management software, which allows customer service
representatives to quickly address subscriber concerns.
Television platforms
Overview
The Company, through its subsidiaries and joint ventures, provides
television platform and related services to over 1.9 million households in
Africa, the Mediterranean and Asia. The Company's services are primarily
provided through wireless technology, mainly terrestrial analog and digital
satellite transmission, with certain subscribers in Thailand receiving
programming through coaxial cable employing a fiber optic backbone.
The Company believes that providing unique, high quality programming,
utilizing the most advanced technology, including interactive services and
providing superior customer service are the keys to establishing and growing a
successful television platform business. The Company seeks in each of its
regions to provide an array of programming, including movies, sports and
children's programming, with elements that appeal to different family members.
In addition, on both its movie and children's channels, the Company frequently
provides local programming such as local series and shows dubbed into the local
language. In most of its markets, the Company or an affiliate operates channels
with exclusive rights to premier movies (including programming from such studios
as Disney, Columbia Tristar/Sony, Warner Brothers, Fox, MCA/Universal, MGM,
Paramount and DreamWorks). In several regions, the Company or an affiliate
provides a sports channel, SuperSport, that has exclusive rights to show popular
sports in that region. The Company has also developed a proprietary channel,
K-T.V., that televises exclusive children's programming. On the Company's
digital platforms, these primary channels are supplemented by major
international channels and/or the local market television networks. The Company
believes that such a comprehensive package attracts new subscribers, enhances
subscriber loyalty and
6
<PAGE>
helps to reduce the percentage of subscribers over a given period who terminate
their subscriptions, which in the industry is referred to as "churn". The
Company also believes that, as long as it maintains a leading position in each
of its markets, it will be in a strong position to continue to acquire
programming rights on favorable terms.
The Company uses the latest available technologies and was one of the
first pay-television companies in the world to provide digital satellite
service, which it now provides or plans to provide in each of its operating
regions. Following the successful introduction of digital services, the Company
is currently introducing interactive services on its digital platforms. Today,
such interactive services include electronic program guides. In the future, the
Company anticipates introducing enhanced services in its major markets, such as
web-browsing, pull-down menus, e-mail, gaming, home shopping and home banking,
which have the potential for generating significant additional revenue and
generally higher margins. The Company believes that its Mindport division gives
it great support and insight into the latest developments and enhancements of
pay-media technologies.
The Company believes its business is primarily a service business and
accordingly places great emphasis on customer care. The Company has installed
Mindport's proprietary customer care and billing system, IBS, throughout its
pay-television regions. IBS provides advanced billing capabilities for
television platform operators and allows customer specific information to be
accessed and manipulated quickly by customer service representatives. The
Company believes IBS will result in greater customer satisfaction and reduced
churn. In many of its regions, the Company operates advanced call centers that
also serve to increase customer satisfaction. We believe that these operations
cause the Company to be perceived as a customer friendly organization.
The following table shows the growth of subscribers in each of the
Company's markets:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 31,
Subscribers (thousands): 1999 1998 1997 1996 CAGR(1)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Africa
South Africa ................................. 1,073 1,054 1,008 943 4.4%
Sub-Saharan Africa ........................... 140 109 104 73 24.2%
Egypt ........................................ 30 18 13 9 49.4%
Middle East .................................. 62 27 15 -- --
-----------------------------------------
Total Africa ............................... 1,305 1,208 1,140 1,025 8.4%
-----------------------------------------
Mediterranean
Greece ....................................... 316 254 203 101 46.3%
Cyprus ....................................... 35 31 26 11 47.1%
-----------------------------------------
Total Mediterranean ........................ 351 285 230 112 46.3%
-----------------------------------------
Asia
Thailand ..................................... 300 313 253 130 32.1%
-----------------------------------------
Total subscribers .......................... 1,956 1,806 1,623 1,268 15.5%
-----------------------------------------
Average monthly revenue per subscriber(2) ...... $24.12 $23.90 $21.10 $18.63 9.0%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
(1) Compounded annual growth rate calculated from March 31, 1996 until March
31, 1999.
(2) Excluding the Company's Asian and Middle East operations because such
revenues are not consolidated on the Company's income statements. Total
subscribers from consolidated operations were 1.594 million, 1.466
million, 1.355 million and 1.137 million as of March 31, 1999, 1998, 1997
and 1996, respectively.
Marketing
Throughout its operations, the Company conducts market research on an
ongoing basis so that it continues to offer its subscribers a lineup of
attractive programming. The Company provides a bouquet of programming that is
designed to be attractive to different members of a household. The Company
markets its analog services as premium offerings with broad market appeal and
positions its digital platforms as upscale services with greater choice. The
Company believes that segmenting its product line in this way helps it to
maximize the size of its addressable market, while also encouraging analog
subscribers to upgrade to the higher-end digital service.
Africa
The Company offers terrestrial analog and digital satellite television
platform services in Africa through its wholly owned subsidiary, MultiChoice
Africa (Proprietary) Limited ("MultiChoice Africa"), which has operations in
both South Africa and other Sub-Saharan African nations besides South Africa
("Sub-Saharan Africa").
South Africa
In South Africa, the Company's analog service transmits the M-Net
channels, which feature exclusive premium movies, exclusive sports and other
programming. The analog service began in 1986 and is transmitted over two
frequencies. The Company's digital satellite service, which commenced in 1995
under the brand name
7
<PAGE>
DStv, features 48 video channels and 49 audio channels. As of March 31, 1999,
MultiChoice Africa had 802,079 subscribers to its analog service and 271,088
subscribers to its digital service in South Africa.
Opportunity. South Africa is Africa's largest economy, with a population
of over 40 million people, and is Africa's third largest television market with
over 4.1 million color TV households in 1998. As of March 31, 1999, MultiChoice
Africa's television platform services had a market penetration of approximately
26% of potential households. The Company believes that South Africa has been and
will remain a favorable market for the provision of its services. A substantial
portion of television households have incomes that give them the disposable
income to afford to purchase the Company's services. The Company believes that
the number of television households will continue to grow as the efforts to
provide economic empowerment to previously disadvantaged groups begin to take
effect and as interactive services become available on the Company's digital
platform.
The Company also believes that there is potential for growth in
MultiChoice Africa's business due to a number of additional factors:
(i) nationwide coverage provided by a digital platform that reaches new
customers who are not able to receive the Company's analog transmissions;
(ii) a significantly enhanced bouquet that provides broader appeal to
households who do not currently subscribe to the dual-channel analog
service; and
(iii) renewed promotions that have proven successful in the past to drive
subscriber growth.
Products. MultiChoice Africa's analog service transmits the M-Net
channels, which provide a combination of first run movies, sporting events and
children's programming along with some original and imported series. These
channels are provided to MultiChoice Africa by Electronic Media Network Limited
("M-Net Ltd"), an affiliate of the Company, and are transmitted over two
terrestrial frequencies. MultiChoice Africa transmits its analog signal 24 hours
each day, including two hours of unencrypted transmission. The Company's digital
service is also transmitted 24 hours each day and offers a significant increase
in the number of specialized channels that provide movies, sports, general
entertainment, children's programming, local stations and international news,
etc.
The following chart details the channels available on the DStv platform.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Type of Type of
Programming Channel Programming Channel
================================================================================================
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Movies The Movie Magic Channel News BBC World
Hallmark Entertainment Network CNN International
CNBC
Entertainment TNT Classic Movies Bloomberg Television
SABC Africa
Sports SuperSport Summit TV
SuperSport 2
SuperSport International
ESPN Infotainment Discovery Channel
SuperTrack Travel Channel
General M-Net Channel Kids K-T.V.Channel
Entertainment The Series Channel Cartoon Network
The Soap Channel
Carlton Select Music VH1
Carlton Food MTV Europe
Canal Horizon BET on Jazz International
Channel Africa
Sci-Fi Channel Audio DMX (40 channels)
BBC Prime BBC World Service 1
National Geographic BBC World Service 2
Teletuks BBC World Service 3
Shoma Education VOA-Voice of America
Zee TV WRN-World Radio Network
Parliamentary Service* Trans World Radio
RTPi* 702 Talk Radio
ART Africa* Radio Africa Austral
CCTV-4* Classic FM
RAI International*
ERT SAT*
Rhema Network*
TV5*
NBC (Namibia)*
SABC 1,2,3*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
* subscription not required to receive channel.
8
<PAGE>
The Company believes that the programming it receives from affiliates
provides it with a significant advantage over other forms of broadcast
entertainment and helps build and retain its subscriber base. M-Net Ltd., which
provides the M-Net and Movie Magic digital channels, has the exclusive rights to
the South African pay-television broadcast of movies from all of the eight major
Hollywood movie studios, including Disney, Columbia Tristar/Sony, Warner
Brothers, Fox, MCA/Universal, Paramount, MGM and DreamWorks. The contracts allow
M-Net Ltd. to select from all films produced by a given studio each year up to a
maximum number and to broadcast these movies at least a year in advance of their
free-to-air television premiere. Typically M-Net Ltd. is entitled to show a
movie 10 to 15 times during its twelve-month pay-television window.
Similarly, SuperSport International Holdings Limited ("SSIH"), which
provides sports programming for the M-Net channel and the SuperSport channels
for MultiChoice Africa's digital platform, has obtained the exclusive rights to
broadcast the South African cricket and rugby leagues along with major
international cricket and rugby events, two of the most popular sports in South
Africa. In addition, SSIH has the exclusive rights to broadcast, among others,
the English, Italian, German and French soccer leagues, all four major
professional golf tournaments as well as the United States and European PGA
Tours and three of the four major professional tennis tournaments.
MultiChoice Africa has signed ten-year channel agreements with both M-Net
Ltd. and SSIH. Payments under these contracts are calculated on a per subscriber
basis and are subject to annual price escalations. See "Item 13. Interest of
Management in Certain Transactions-Channel Distribution Agreements".
The Company is now beginning to offer interactive television services on
DStv. These services currently consist of electronic programming guides that
allow all digital subscribers to access detailed information about available
programming. The Company intends to begin implementing other interactive
services such as pull-down menus in late 1999, and some time thereafter, gaming,
home shopping and home banking. In providing these services, the Company will
use software platforms developed and provided by OpenTV, part of the Company's
Mindport division. The Company believes interactive television will become a
substantial new phase in its business development and has the potential to
provide the Company with significant new sources of revenue at higher margins
and to fuel subscriber growth.
Marketing and Subscriber Management. The Company will continue to market
its analog service as a premium offer with broad market appeal and position DStv
as an upscale service with greater choice. By targeting the digital and analog
services at different market segments, the Company hopes to spur total
subscriber growth. The Company also believes that DStv will be attractive to
rural residents, who often have poor reception of terrestrial signals. The
Company expects that the majority of growth in its digital subscriber base will
come from customers who upgrade from analog with additional growth from new,
rural subscribers currently unable to receive the analog service. The Company
expects its analog subscriber numbers to generally remain stable as new
subscribers from the growing middle class replace subscribers who migrate to
DStv. The Company believes that approximately 60% of the analog subscribers who
have terminated service have migrated to digital.
The Company transmits its analog service unencrypted for two hours every
day. It uses these transmissions as a promotional vehicle to increase subscriber
numbers, as a mechanism to fulfill public service obligations and as
cross-promotion for its DStv services. The Company believes that these
unencrypted transmissions have been instrumental in achieving its subscriber
growth and establishing a strong brand identity.
The Company services its subscriber base through its customer care and
billing centers in Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town. Each customer center uses
Mindport's IBS subscriber management system. These centers provide customers
with local walk-in and telephone service and also act as a mutual back up in
times of heavy call volume. The Company also conducts telemarketing from these
centers in order to solicit new subscriptions.
Pricing and Billing. The following table sets forth certain pricing
information for the Company's South African businesses:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Equipment price (1)
-------------------------------------
Monthly
Subscribers (thousands) subscription price Purchase Monthly lease(2)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 31,
1999 1998 1997 ZAR $ ZAR $ ZAR $
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Analog 802 896 934 149 24.15 799 129.5 28 4.54
Digital 271 158 74 249 40.36 1,999 486.06 59 9.56
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
(1) Excludes price of satellite receiver in the case of digital service.
(2) The amount of monthly payment under optional installment purchasing plans
for equipment, which are typically five years in length and require a
deposit of ZAR250 ($40.52).
9
<PAGE>
MultiChoice Africa bills its subscribers monthly, in advance, in South
African rand. Subscribers who fail to pay their bill by the beginning of any
given month are automatically disconnected and may be charged a fee for
reconnection. During the 12 months ended March 31, 1999, MultiChoice Africa
experienced an average monthly net churn of approximately 1.6% on its analog
subscriber base and less than 0.1% on its digital subscriber base. To date, the
Company has not experienced significant customer disconnections as a result of
increases in the price of its services. Net churn is the percentage of customers
who terminate their subscription in a given period net of former customers who
reconnect in that period.
From time to time, MultiChoice Africa runs promotions during which it
subsidizes the purchase price of set-top boxes, and these promotions have been
successful in increasing the numbers of subscribers.
Competition. MultiChoice Africa currently competes directly with free
television broadcasters in South Africa and indirectly with sporting events,
motion picture theaters, the Internet and other forms of entertainment. There
are currently four free-to-air broadcast channels in South Africa, SABC1, SABC2
and SABC3, which are each government owned and e.tv, in which Time Warner holds
a minority interest. The Company's digital and analog platforms are the only
pay-television services provided in South Africa.
The Company believes that its pay-television services are differentiated
from the competition by their high quality, exclusive programming, including
first run movies and sporting events. This programming promotes subscriber
growth and retention and increases the Company's appeal to more sophisticated,
higher-income viewers. In addition, DStv offers a greater choice of programming
than its competitors; its offering of 42 distinct video channels is several
times more than all of the free-to-air television channels in South Africa
combined.
Transmission. The transmission of MultiChoice Africa's analog and digital
services is conducted by Orbicom (Proprietary) Limited ("Orbicom"), a company
that was formerly owned 80.0% by MIH Holdings and 20.0% by MIH Limited and has
recently been acquired by M-Cell Limited ("M-Cell"). See "-The
Company-Affiliates". These services are provided to MultiChoice Africa at cost.
The analog service is sent to transmission towers either terrestrially over
fiber optic cables or microwave links or via satellite. The towers transmit the
signal to homes which receive it over an antenna and decrypt it using a set-top
box. Those who receive the digital satellite signal do so by means of a 90 cm
dish, which receives the signal from the Panamsat 4 Satellite situated over the
east coast of Africa. The Company leases 9 Ku-band transponders on Panamsat 4.
Uplink facilities are provided by Orbicom. MultiChoice Africa utilizes the
Irdeto Access encryption and decoder technology provided by its Mindport
division for both its analog and digital platforms.
Sub-Saharan Africa
The Company offers terrestrial analog and digital satellite pay-television
services to Sub-Saharan Africa through MultiChoice Africa and various joint
ventures and agents. The Company's analog service transmits a customized M-Net
channel, which features exclusive movies and sports and other programming to
eight African nations through joint ventures. Its digital service features 30
video channels, including the customized M-Net channel and many major
international networks, transmitted via C-band satellite to approximately 40
countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. As of March 31, 1999, MultiChoice Africa and
its joint ventures had 53,862 Sub-Saharan African subscribers to its terrestrial
analog service and 86,315 Sub-Saharan African subscribers to its DStv digital
satellite service. The following table provides information about the primary
Sub-Saharan African nations in which the Company conducts business:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Analog
Total TV Business Analog
Population Households Analog Digital Total Total Ownership Start
Market (millions) (thousands) Subs(1) Subs(1) Subs Penetration Interest(2) Date
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Nigeria 111.3 10,000 9,627 12,764 22,391 0.2% 79% 1994
Tanzania 29.1 466 933 2,845 3,778 0.8 100 1997
Kenya 30.0 823 4,260 6,751 11,011 1.3 51 1995
Uganda 19.2 200 1,843 2,110 3,953 1.9 75 1995
Ghana 17.1 274 4,324 1,721 6,045 2.2 50 1993
Zimbabwe 12.7 342 220 18,537 18,757 5.4 N/A N/A
Angola 11.2 571 -- 5,389 5,389 0.9 N/A N/A
Malawi 9.5 * 1,610 3,744 5,354 N/A N/A N/A
Zambia 9.2 589 6,415 4,183 10,597 1.8 51 1995
Namibia 2.0 109 22,894 6,795 29,689 27.2 49 1992
Botswana 1.5 35 856 9,010 9,866 21.8 50 1993
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
(1) As of March 31, 1999
(2) Ownership of digital is 100%
* Insufficient data.
10
<PAGE>
Opportunity. Although the current number of subscribers in Sub-Saharan
Africa is a small portion of the Company's overall base and recent political and
economic instability in the region could delay the realization of the market's
full potential, the Company expects significant percentage subscriber growth in
this market to the extent economic demographics improve. In addition, the
Company expects the continuing rollout of its digital service and promotions,
including set-top box subsidies, to further drive subscriber growth.
Products. The Company's Sub-Saharan African businesses transmit an analog
service that includes the M-Net channel to eight major African nations and a
digital platform that provides 30 video and 6 audio channels to all of
Sub-Saharan Africa. The Company offers many of the same premium channels in
Sub-Saharan Africa as in South Africa, including those broadcasting exclusive
premium films and popular sports. The Company varies the timing of certain
programs on its digital platform between east and west Africa to account for
time zone differences.
Interactive services in the form of an electronic programming guide are
currently available to all subscribers on the digital platform. The Company
intends to further offer gaming, home shopping and home banking sometime in the
next several years.
Marketing and Subscriber Management. Similar to the position in South
Africa, the Company believes that by targeting its digital and analog services
to different economic demographics the subscriber base will increase and
subscribers who are initially attracted to the analog service will, in time,
migrate to the digital service.
The Company actively markets its services in the region through local
affiliates and agents. Its efforts are focused on the major cities in each of
the countries it serves because the Company believes that these major
metropolitan areas contain the households with the greatest ability to afford
its services. In addition, the Company believes that given the size of the urban
population and color television penetration, there is significant opportunity to
increase the subscriber base in these areas.
Pricing and Billing. The following table sets forth certain pricing
information for the Company's Sub-Saharan African businesses:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Subscribers (thousands)
March 31, (1)Monthly (1)(2) Equipment
1999 1998 1997 Subscription Purchase
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Analog 54 60 75 $ 30 $ 150
Digital 86 49 29 52.50 700
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
(1) Represents the average price across all of the Company's Sub-Saharan
African businesses.
(2) Includes price of satellite receiver in the case of digital service.
In each Sub-Saharan African nation, the Company generally bills its
customers in U.S. dollars or dollar equivalents. Generally, subscribers who fail
to pay their bills by the beginning of any given month are automatically
disconnected and may be charged a fee for reconnection. During the 1 year ended
March 31, 1999, the Company's Sub-Saharan African operations experienced an
average monthly net churn of approximately 1.5% on its analog subscriber base
and approximately 0.2% on its digital subscriber base. To date, the Company has
not experienced significant customer disconnections as a result of increases in
the price of its services. From time to time, the Company runs promotions during
which it subsidizes the purchase price of set-top boxes, and these promotions
have been successful in increasing the number of subscribers.
Competition. The Company is the leading provider of television platform
services in Sub-Saharan Africa. In the countries in which it broadcasts,
however, there are numerous public and private free-to-air television stations,
as well as small, localized pay-television operations. The Company believes that
its high quality, exclusive programming distributed terrestrially and on DStv
appeals to the broader African market. In addition, the wider choice of
programming available on DStv serves to differentiate it from other
broadcasters.
Transmission. The Company delivers analog services terrestrially to
Sub-Saharan Africa by transmitting its programming signal by satellite to local
receiving stations in nine countries. These stations are generally owned in
partnership with a local partner or franchisee in each country. These stations
relay the signal to a broadcast tower that transmits it as a standard encrypted
television signal. As that signal is received by a customer, a decoder in a
standard set-top box decrypts the signal and provides it to the customer's
television.
The Company's digital service is transmitted Direct-to Home ("DTH") on a
C-band satellite transponder. Customers receive these signals on a dish mounted
on or near their homes. The signal is then descrambled and decompressed for
viewing, using a conditional access system, set-top box and smart cards designed
by Mindport.
11
<PAGE>
Egypt and the Middle East
The Company provides customer service, subscriber management and customer
billing services to third-party pay-television broadcasters in Egypt and other
Middle-Eastern nations. The Company provides these services for the Showtime and
Firstnet digital satellite platforms. In Egypt, the Company also provides these
services to Cable Network Egypt ("CNE") for its terrestrial analog service. As
of March 31, 1999, there were 91,563 subscribers in these countries.
Under its arrangements with Arab Radio & TV and Gulf DTH, the Company
collects revenues from their subscribers. The Company then takes these
subscriber revenues and remits a percentage to the broadcasters and keeps the
remainder as compensation for its services, which include operating customer
service centers, managing the subscriber base and conducting billing and
collection.
Mediterranean
Greece and Cyprus
The Company offers terrestrial analog television platform services in
Greece and Cyprus through its subsidiary, NetMed B.V. (together with its
subsidiaries, "NetMed"). In Greece, the Company's analog service provides three
channels operating on two frequencies that offer a broad array of entertainment,
including exclusive first-run movies, sports and children's programming. In
Cyprus, the Company's analog service offers two third-party channels that
feature a similar programming lineup. NetMed began broadcasting its analog
service in 1994 and received from the Greek government, on July 15, 1999, a
license that grants MultiChoice Hellas the right to provide pay radio and
television services via satellite (the "Greek Satellite License"). NetMed
expects to begin offering digital satellite service in 1999, subject to the
conclusion of the Concession Agreement that is required in terms of the Greek
Satellite License. As of March 31, 1999, NetMed had 315,674 subscribers in
Greece and 34,824 subscribers in Cyprus.
Opportunity. Greece has a population of approximately 10.5 million people
and approximately 3.2 million television households, giving NetMed's
pay-television services a market penetration of approximately 10% of television
households as of March 31, 1999. The market penetration for pay-television in
Greece is much lower than the average of 38% for cable and satellite penetration
in the European Union countries. Furthermore, in 1998, average daily viewing
time in Greece was 225 minutes, compared to an average of 191 minutes in the
European Union as a whole. The Company believes that the potential market growth
in Greece arises from the large Greek appetite for television and its
comparatively low rates of market penetration. The Company also believes that
the launch of NetMed's digital satellite service, Nova, will be a significant
source of new subscribers. Nova is ready to be launched upon conclusion of the
Concession Agreement that is required in terms of the Greek Satellite License.
Products. NetMed's Greek analog service consists of three channels,
FilmNet, SuperSport and K-T.V., transmitted over two analog frequencies. FilmNet
provides a combination of exclusive, first-run movies, along with some original
and imported series. SuperSport features exclusive sporting events, including
Greek league soccer and basketball, the two most popular sports in Greece.
K-T.V. offers a wide range of exclusive children's programming. Customers have
the option of subscribing to FilmNet, SuperSport or to both services. Customers
who subscribe to both also receive K-T.V. as a bonus channel, which is currently
the only way to receive K-T.V. Each of these channels is produced by NetMed
Hellas S.A. ("NetMed Hellas"), a 96% owned subsidiary of NetMed B.V.
In Cyprus, the Company's analog platform broadcasts the LTV and Alfa
channels. LTV is produced by Lumiere Television Limited ("Lumiere"), a Cypriot
media company that is NetMed B.V.'s joint venture partner in MultiChoice Cyprus
Limited ("MultiChoice Cyprus"). Alfa is produced by Alfa TV, a Cypriot company.
Each channel shows a variety of programming, including exclusive films and
sports. Most of the programming on each channel is purchased from NetMed Hellas.
The digital service, Nova, is anticipated to include 19 video and five
audio channels, including film, sports and children's channels provided by
NetMed Hellas, supplemented by popular international channels and several of the
national Greek free-to-air networks. The Company's digital service has been
fully built and tested, and the Company has already established all agreements
necessary for its operation. The Company anticipates concluding the Concession
Agreement in 1999, although there can be no assurance that will be the case. See
"-Regulation-Greece". At that time, the Company also intends to begin offering
some interactive television services on its digital platform.
The Company believes that its ability to attract and retain subscribers in
Greece and Cyprus depends on the ability of NetMed Hellas to retain its rights
to exclusive programming. NetMed Hellas has the exclusive pay-television
broadcast rights to movies from all eight major Hollywood movie studios,
including Columbia, Tristar/Sony, Warner Brothers, Fox, MCA/Universal, MGM,
Disney, Paramount and DreamWorks and is
12
<PAGE>
currently negotiating with the two other studios for similar rights. The
contracts allow NetMed Hellas to select a specified number of films from all
films produced by a given studio each year and to broadcast these movies at
least a year in advance of their free-to-air television premiere. Typically
NetMed Hellas is entitled to show a movie 10 to 15 times during its twelve-month
pay-television window. Under the contracts, NetMed Hellas makes payments on a
per subscriber basis.
NetMed Hellas also holds the exclusive rights to broadcast Greek league
soccer and Greek league basketball, the two most popular sports in the country.
Under NetMed Hellas' contract with the Greek soccer federation, NetMed currently
broadcasts three live matches each week and then sells the matches for delayed
rebroadcast on free-to-air television. NetMed Hellas has a contract with the
Greek basketball league pursuant to which NetMed will televise two live matches
and two delayed matches each week.
Under an Agreement dated July 14, 1999 between ENIC Sports Sarl ("ENIC
Sports") and NetMed for the sale and purchase of part of the issued share
capital of SOE International SA ("SOE"), NetMed purchased from ENIC Sports a
number of shares equal to 40% of the issued shares in SOE. SOE owns 78.4% of the
Greek football club AEK PAE. The consideration for the acquisition was
approximately 2 billion drachmae ($6.6 million). Arrangements have also been put
in place which allow for the disposal of a further 11% of SOE at a price of
approximately 1 billion drachmae ($3.3 million) for the introduction of local
partners. In addition, NetMed will fund the repayment of approximately (pound)4
million ($6,5 million) of debt to ENIC Sports' parent, ENIC plc. As part of the
transaction, AEK Athens will enter into a long-term contract for Greek domestic
league television rights with NetMed which will become effective at the end of
the current league contract in 2001.
Marketing and Subscriber Management. The Company believes its analog
service is attractive due to its comparatively clean frequencies and uncluttered
channels. When the Company is able to provide digital service, NetMed will
continue to market its analog service as a premium offer with broad market
appeal and position Nova as an upscale service with greater choice. Initially,
the Company expects the majority of its digital growth to come from subscribers
that upgrade from the analog service. The Company also expects to achieve
subscriber growth due to the expanded territorial coverage of the digital
platform. With its digital service, the Company will be able to reach 100% of
Greek households, as compared to 70% with its analog system.
The broadcast television business in Greece tends to be seasonal, with a
significant decrease in viewership occurring in the summer, when Greeks
traditionally enjoy outdoor activities and travel and when the soccer and
basketball seasons have ended. In line with this trend, the Company has
experienced subscriber churn in the summer, but the Company is aggressively
implementing new programs designed to promote year-long subscriptions. For
example, the Company is pursuing programs that apply a discount to the price of
a set-top box in conjunction with a subscription over a consecutive number of
months that runs through the summer.
NetMed provides customer service through customer care and billing centers
in Athens and Salonica in Greece and Nicosia, Limassol and Larnaca in Cyprus.
These centers utilize Mindport's IBS subscriber management system.
Pricing and Billing. The following table sets forth certain pricing
information for the Company's Mediterranean businesses:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Equipment (1)
---------------------------------------------
Monthly
Subscribers (thousands) Subscription Total Monthly lease (2)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 31,
1999 1998 1997 GRD $ GRD $ GRD $
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Greece
Analog 316 254 203 10,900(3) 36.11 55,500 183.86 N/A --
Digital N/A N/A N/A 14,900(4) 49.36 150,000(4) 496.92 4,500(4) 14.91
Cyprus
Analog 35 31 26 10,172(5) 33.70 66,169 219.20 N/A --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
(1) Includes price of satellite receiver in the case of digital service.
(2) The estimated amount of monthly payment under optional, three-year
installment purchasing plans for equipment.
(3) Price for both FilmNet and SuperSport as of January 1, 1999. Separately,
FilmNet costs GRD7,300 ($24.18) and SuperSport costs GRD8,900 ($29.48).
(4) Current estimates upon launch of digital service.
(5) Price for both LTV and Alfa together. Separately, each costs GRD8,439
($27.96).
NetMed bills its subscribers monthly in Greek drachmae. Subscribers are
billed in advance and those who fail to pay their bill by the end of the month
of service are disconnected. During the year ended March 31, 1999, NetMed
experienced a monthly net churn of approximately 1.2% on its total subscriber
base. Net churn is heaviest in the summer months of May and June, averaging
approximately 4.4% in 1999 compared to an average of 6.3%
13
<PAGE>
for May and June 1998. In March 1999, monthly net churn was approximately 0.2%
versus 1.5% in March 1998. Negative net churn occurs when the number of former
subscribers who reconnect exceeds the number of subscribers who drop off in a
given period. To date, the Company has not experienced significant customer
disconnections as a result of increases in the price of its services.
Competition. NetMed competes directly with free-to-air broadcast channels
in Greece and Cyprus and indirectly with sporting events, motion picture
theaters, the Internet and other forms of entertainment. There are currently
numerous free-to-air channels in Greece and Cyprus, including national Greek
networks (such as Mega, Antenna, Skai and Star) and four national Cypriot
networks (Cyprus Broadcasting Corp., Sigma, O Logos TV and Antenna). The Company
believes its analog service is attractive due to its comparatively clean
frequencies and uncluttered channels. When launched, NetMed's digital satellite
service will have clear signal coverage throughout Greece and Cyprus, which is
difficult to replicate using terrestrial broadcasts due to the mountainous
terrain and remote islands found there. The new Greek media law allows multiple
licenses to be granted for pay-television platforms, the Company is aware of one
other entity, InterSat, that has applied for such a license.
Transmission. NetMed transmits its analog service through a network of 56
terrestrial transmission sites across Greece. Its network currently covers
approximately 70% of the Greek population. NetMed owns and operates 13 of the 56
sites, including the two major transmission sites in Athens and Salonica, which
together cover approximately 60% of the population. NetMed distributes its
signal to the regional transmission sites over the Eutelsat's Hot Bird 2
satellite.
The remaining regional transmission sites are owned and operated on the
Company's behalf by local business partners, who often also own distribution
outlets where NetMed's set-top boxes are sold. In return, the local business
partners receive 6% of analog subscription revenues in their reception area, and
upon the launch of digital it is expected that they will receive some
incremental compensation.
The terrestrial analog network in Cyprus is owned by Lumiere, the
Company's minority partner in MultiChoice Cyprus, and Alfa TV. The network
consists of transmission sites, which together provide coverage of 77% of
Cypriot television households. Additional sites are being established to
increase coverage.
The digital satellite service will be transmitted off Eutelsat's Hot Bird
2 and Hot Bird 3 satellites to 60 cm dishes mounted on homes. Both the
terrestrial analog and digital satellite transmission systems utilize backup
systems, including redundant routing to the point of uplink and, in the case of
analog, backup broadcast towers.
In encrypting and decoding its signal, NetMed uses conditional access
technology licensed from Mindport.
Asia
The Company conducts its Asian development operations out of its offices
in Hong Kong and Beijing. Its first investment in this region is its joint
venture interest in United Broadcasting Corporation Public Company Limited,
formerly the International Broadcasting Corporation Public Company Limited
("UBC"), the leading pay-television provider in Thailand. Through a series of
transactions beginning in 1997, the Company now owns 27.8% of UBC, and holds an
option to purchase an additional 3.3%, which it intends to exercise in August
1999. The agreements governing this joint venture grant the Company certain
management rights, including the right to appoint the Chief Operating Officer.
The Company views the UBC venture as a model for possible future ventures in
Asian countries and plans to draw upon its experiences in Thailand in
structuring its other investments in the region.
Thailand
The Company offers digital satellite and analog pay-television services in
Thailand through UBC and its subsidiaries (the "UBC Group"). The UBC Group was
formed from UBC's acquisition on February 16, 1998 of Telecom Asia's interest in
UBC Cable, a leading provider of cable television services in Thailand. This
acquisition merged the two largest pay-television companies in Thailand. The
Company believes that the UBC Group has been able to derive significant benefits
from this acquisition, including a more coordinated and focused marketing
strategy and the ability to streamline its workforce.
In 1997, the Company was invited to acquire an equity interest in UBC in
order to provide UBC with its television platform management expertise. After
making its initial investment, the Company placed certain of its employees in
key management positions. As a result of these appointments, the Company was
able to assist in refocusing UBC in order to align with the Company's operating
philosophy. The Company took the lead role in repositioning UBC for long-term
growth through the acquisition of UBC Cable by UBC. The Company also played a
significant role in the coordination of the cable and digital bouquets, the
implementation of a new pricing plan and the introduction of a new billing
system. The Company believes the long-term effect of these changes will be to
increase subscriber growth and UBC's revenues and profitability.
14
<PAGE>
As of March 31, 1999, the UBC Group had 300,211 total subscribers,
including 147,515 cable subscribers and 152,696 digital satellite subscribers.
The UBC Group began its cable and digital satellite service in 1995.
Opportunity. Thailand has a population of approximately 61.1 million
people, with approximately 14.6 million television households. The Company
believes that Thailand represents an excellent opportunity for subscriber
growth, given the low pay-television penetration in Thailand, which is
approximately 2% of television households. That figure is less than most other
countries in the region, including those with similar or lower levels of
economic development than Thailand. Market structures, uncontrolled competition
and business structures that prevailed before the acquisition are some of the
reasons for the historically low penetration rates.
Given the comparatively low level of market penetration in Thailand, the
Company believes that the recently adopted coordinated marketing plan between
its cable and digital satellite services should result in increased subscriber
growth. UBC's digital satellite service is potentially receivable by all 14.6
million television households in the country. UBC Cable's service, which has
147,515 subscribers, passes more than 800,000 homes in Bangkok.
Products. The UBC Group's digital satellite and cable services each
provide the same 35 channels, including proprietary channels showing movies and
sports, major international channels and six major free-to-air networks, in
addition to seven educational channels. The bouquets were coordinated in order
to reduce churn between services as subscribers abandoned one system for
another. The Company believes this unified approach and leading market position
has been responsible for a significant decline in its international channel
costs. The satellite service is offered on three tiers, and the cable service is
offered on four tiers.
Eight of the channels shown on the UBC Group's pay-television systems are
produced by its 99.9% owned subsidiary, Cineplex. The channels include UBC
Movies and UBC Asian Movies, which show first run and repeat films, UBC Kids,
UBC Series, UBC News and SuperSport 1 and 2. In July 1999, Cineplex also began
producing a new channel, UBC Xzyte, to replace Jet TV (Thai and Japanese) which
was carried by UBC and UBC Cable in the past but is no longer offered. Cineplex
does not currently have the same exclusive rights to first run movies as are
enjoyed by other MIH operating companies, but shows programming to which HBO,
Cinemax and other movie channels do not have exclusive access. Its SuperSport
channels show programming tailored for Thai audiences, including favorite local
sports such as takraw and badminton, along with exclusive major international
events, such as English Premier League Soccer. The UBC Group also broadcasts
major international and local free-to-air channels. Most programming on the UBC
Group's television platform systems carry the original soundtrack along with a
dubbed Thai soundtrack or Thai subtitling, with such dubbing and subtitling
generally being carried out by the UBC Group.
15
<PAGE>
Effective May 1, 1999, following approval on March 19, 1999 by the Mass
Communication Organisation of Thailand ("MCOT"), UBC created a new Silver
package consisting of ten paid and six free-to-air channels on both the cable
and digital platforms.
The chart below details the channels provided and the tiering structure
for both the cable and satellite bouquets:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Type of Type of
Programming Channel Programming Channel
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Movies HBO - G News UBC News - MC
Cinemax - G CNN - G
Star Movies - G BBC - G
Hallmark - G CNBC - G
UBC Asian Movies - MC
TNT Classic Movies - G Kids Cartoon Network - G
UBC Movies - MC UBC Kids - MC
Sports ESPN - G Education DLT/ETV (seven channels) - B
Star Sports - G
SuperSport 1 - S Music MTV - G
SuperSport 2 - G CH[V] Thai - S
General UBC Series - MC Foreign TV5 (French) - G
Entertainment UBC Xzyte - S NHK (Japanese) - A
CCTV - G Terrestrial Channel 3 - B
Mosaic - B Broadcasters Channel 5 - B
AXN - G Channel 7 - B
Discovery - G Channel 9 - B
Animal Planet - G Channel 11 - B
Fashion - S ITV - B
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
B = Basic package (also included in Mini cable, Silver and Gold packages)
S = Silver package (also included in Gold package, cable and digital)
MC = Mini cable package (included in Silver and Gold package, cable and
digital). Only made available to cable subscribers currently taking the
package
G = Gold package, cable and digital
A = A la carte
The National Geographic channel is offered to subscribers who pay by direct
debit, credit card or annually in advance.
UBC currently offers interactive services in the form of an electronic
programming guide on its digital platform. In the future, UBC intends to offer
web browsing, pull-down menus, e-mail, home shopping and home banking, but has
not set a definite date for the launch of those services. In providing these
services, UBC will consider the use of software platforms developed and provided
by OpenTV, a part of the Company's Mindport division. The Company believes
interactive television will be a substantial new phase in UBC's business
development and has the potential to provide UBC with significant new sources of
revenue at higher margins and fuel subscriber growth.
Marketing and Subscriber Management. UBC markets its service as a premium
offer with broad market appeal. UBC phased out its analog MMDS system in
February 1999 due to widespread piracy of its signal. UBC will retain its rights
to the MMDS frequencies and is examining the feasibility of establishing a
digital MMDS service.
UBC provides customer service through customer care and billing centers in
four cities, including Bangkok. These centers use Mindport's IBS subscriber
management system.
16
<PAGE>
Pricing and Billing. The following table sets forth certain pricing
information for the Company's Thai business:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monthly subscription price Equipment (1)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mini cable Up front Monthly
Number of subscribers (1) Silverpackage SilverPackage Gold Package fee(2) rental(4)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 31,
1999 1998 1997 Baht $ Baht $ Baht $ Baht $ Baht $
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Cable 147 154 119 389 10.35 768 20.43 1,060 28.20 4,000 104.44 100 2.66
Digital 156 116 59 N/A N/A N/A N/A 1,060 28.20 10,500 279.40 160 4.26
MMDS(3) -- 43 76 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A ~ ~ ~
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
(1) Subscribers in thousands.
(2) Includes installation fee, connection fee and refundable set-top box
deposit.
(3) Phased out in February 1999.
(4) Cable subscribers only pay a monthly rental fee if they joined after May
1, 1998. Digital subscriber rental fees vary depending upon the date on
which the subscriber joined the service.
On March 19, 1999, MCOT approved the creation of UBC's new Silver package
consisting of ten paid and six free-to-air channels priced at Baht 768 ($20.43)
per month. MCOT also approved UBC's planned increase in the price of its Gold
package to Baht 1,060 ($28.20) per month, an increase of 22.5% from the previous
package price of Baht 890 ($23.68) per month. Included in these charges was the
reduction of value-added taxation from 10% to 7%. The Company introduced the new
basic package on May 1, 1999, with the Gold package price increase taking effect
on April 5, 1999 for new subscribers.
For the year ended March 31, 1999, the UBC Group's average monthly net
churn was approximately 1,9% on its digital system. MMDS had higher net churn
consistent with UBC's effort to phase out its analog MMDS system. The average
monthly net churn for the UBC Group's cable system was approximately 2,8% for
the year ended March 31, 1999. The Company believes that the coordination of the
programming packages for cable and digital will reduce the amount of churn
caused by subscribers switching between those platforms. To date, the UBC Group
has not experienced significant customer disconnections as a result of increases
in the price of its services. The average monthly net churn for the six months
ended March 31, 1999 was approximately 1.49% per month for the digital system
and 1.52% per month for the cable system.
Consistent with the policies of other MIH companies, the UBC Group has
instituted a strict policy of terminating the service of subscribers once they
fall 30 days in arrears. This policy helped reduce the average arrearage to well
below 30 days from in excess of 180 for the year ended March 31, 1999. In 2000,
the UBC Group plans to switch to advance billing, which is used in the other MIH
operating companies.
The UBC Group does not require its subscribers to purchase their set-top
boxes but rather retains ownership of the equipment. The cost of the equipment
is built into the connection fee and monthly charge. The Company believes that
this strategy has a positive effect upon subscriber growth by minimizing the
entry cost of subscription to the UBC's services.
Competition. The Thai television industry consists primarily of several
national free-to-air television stations and the Company's television platform
operations. Previously, another pay-television service had been operated by Thai
Sky, but it discontinued operations in 1997. The Thai regulatory authority
granted pay-television licenses to two other companies in 1996, but those
companies have not launched, or announced an intention to launch, pay-television
services. There are also several small, provincial cable systems, generally
averaging fewer than 1,500 subscribers. The UBC Group competes directly with the
national free-to-air television stations and, in the case of the digital
service, local cable groups in Thailand and indirectly with sporting events,
motion picture theaters, the Internet and other forms of entertainment. The
Company believes that UBC's unique programming, including exclusive first run
movies and sporting events, gives it a distinct advantage over its free-to-air
television competitors. The national free television stations are uplinked to
the same satellite used by UBC's service and consequently form part of the
bouquet available to the Company's subscribers. The Company believes that this
arrangement enhances its appeal to current subscribers and assists in growing
its subscriber base.
Transmission. UBC's digital satellite service is transmitted on a Ku-band
signal through the Thaicom 3 satellite, owned by Shinawatra Satellite Public
Company Limited. The satellite uplink facilities at Lad Lum Koa are owned and
operated by CS Communications Limited. UBC utilizes digital compression
technology that facilitates multiple channel transmission through a single
channel's bandwidth. Subscribers receive their signal on a 60-90 cm dish and
unscramble and decompress the signal with a set-top box utilizing Irdeto Access'
conditional access system and smart card technology from Mindport. The set-top
box, smart cards and conditional access equipment are owned by Satellite
Services Company Limited (a 96% owned subsidiary of UBC) and leased to the UBC
Group.
17
<PAGE>
UBC Cable's transmission is delivered on hybrid coaxial fiber optic cable
lines and over a dropwire into homes that utilize a set-top box to access the
signal. The cable network is owned by Asia Multimedia Company Limited ("AMM"), a
subsidiary of Telecom Asia, and leased to UBC Cable pursuant to an agreement
that expires in 2019. As part of its services to UBC Cable, AMM supplies and
installs a dropwire to link its network to subscriber homes and installs and
maintains the set-top boxes.
UBC's cable system features redundancy at the head-end. The satellite
system features route and fiber redundancy in the feed to the uplink stations.
The uplink stations themselves will be fully redundant by 1999.
REGULATION
Pay-television, Internet and other pay-media operations and the provision
of programming services are generally subject to governmental regulation, which
may change from time to time. Such changes in applicable laws and regulations
could cause the Company to incur additional costs of compliance or otherwise
adversely affect the Company's business. There can be no assurance that material
and adverse changes in the regulation of the Company's existing operations will
not occur in the future. Regulation can take the form of price controls, service
requirements, programming content restrictions, foreign ownership restrictions
and licensing requirements, among others. Delays in obtaining or renewing any
required regulatory approvals could adversely affect the Company's ability to
offer some or all of its services; for instance, the Company's license to
broadcast analog television in Greece is scheduled to expire in October 1999,
and there can be no assurance that it will be renewed. In most countries in
which it does or may do business, the Company operates or may operate pursuant
to licenses obtained from governmental or quasigovernmental agencies, which
licenses are generally subject to periodic renewal. The inability of the Company
to obtain or retain any required licenses could have a material adverse effect
on its business.
South Africa
Overview. M-Net broadcasts its channels pursuant to a license acquired on
October 17, 1985 from the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications (the
"Minister"). In accordance with the prevailing law at the time, the Minister's
approval was given after the requisite consultation with the South African
Broadcasting Corporation ("SABC'), the state-owned public service broadcaster.
The Independent Broadcasting Authority Act No. 153 of 1993 (the "IBA
Act"), which came into operation on March 31, 1994, established the Independent
Broadcasting Authority (the "IBA") as an independent regulator mandated to
regulate broadcasting in the public market subject to principles of
accountability and transparency. The regulation of broadcasting is now vested in
the hands of the council of the IBA.
The IBAAct vests in the council of the IBAall powers, functions and duties
in relation to the administration, management, planning and use of broadcasting
services' frequency bands (those frequencies assigned to broadcasting by the
International Telecommunications Union and adopted in South Africa), including
the power to issue licenses for broadcasting services. The IBAAct prohibits the
provision of broadcasting signal distribution or a broadcasting service
(utilizing the broadcasting frequencies) unless such distribution or service is
provided in accordance with a signal distribution or broadcasting license issued
by the IBA. The latter licenses may be granted for public broadcasting services,
private broadcasting services and community broadcasting services.
The IBA Act contains provisions which recognize existing licenses under
previously applicable laws, such as the license previously issued to M-Net Ltd.,
which license has been amended by the IBA after a public consultation process.
The license imposes certain local content requirements, advertising limitations
and a license fee equal to 2% of revenues derived from the two analog channels.
In addition, Orbicom has received a downlink license and a broadcasting signal
distribution license from the IBA. The latter permits Orbicom to provide M-Net
Ltd. with terrestrial analog distribution services in South Africa.
The Telecommunications Act No. 103 of 1996 provides that all
telecommunications and radio frequencies other than broadcasting and
broadcasting frequencies should be regulated by the South African
Telecommunications Regulatory Authority ("SATRA"). In addition, SATRA recognizes
the uplink license and wireless cable, known as "MMDS" license which were issued
to Orbicom prior to the establishment of SATRA. The MMDS license authorizes the
use of frequencies and terrestrial stations for analog distribution. The uplink
license authorizes the distribution of television, sound and/or associated data
via satellite for direct reception or terrestrial re-transmission, provided that
such distribution is directly related to a broadcasting service. In addition,
Orbicom has received a value added network services licence and, on February 19,
1999, received a further uplink license from SATRA.
Current Developments. On June 4, 1998, the Department of Communications
issued a White Paper on broadcasting policy. It confirmed that a new
broadcasting policy would seek to establish a 3-tier governance system for the
broadcasting industry, namely policy formulation and development by the
government, licensing and regulation by the IBA and service provision by the
broadcasters and signal distributors. The White Paper made, inter alia, the
following recommendations:
18
<PAGE>
- - the imposition of specific broadcasting license conditions on private
broadcasters which would acknowledge the different services offered by
satellite services, pay services and free-to-air services and which would
impose obligations commensurate with the nature of the particular
broadcasting business;
- - the adoption of a more comprehensive definition of broadcasting and
broadcasting services than that contained in the IBAAct in line with
international practices and technological developments; and
- - the merger into a single body of the broadcasting and telecommunications
regulatory functions.
In view of the increasing difficulty in differentiating between radio
frequency spectrums used for telecommunications and those used for broadcasting
and in order to prevent duplication specifically in the technical skills and
facilities areas, the government has decided to merge the IBA and SATRA into a
single regulatory authority. It was envisaged in the White Paper that the new
regulatory body would enjoy an independent statutory framework.
On June 30, 1999, a new Broadcasting Act came into effect. This Act
essentially seeks to put into law the most important findings and
recommendations of the White Paper. In particular, it:
- - repeals the previous Broadcasting Act No. 73 of 1976 and provides a
charter for the SABC;
- - clarifies the Minister's powers with regard to policy formulation and the
IBA's powers in respect of the regulation and licensing of the
broadcasting system;
- - establishes the Frequency Spectrum Directorate in the Department of
Communications; and
- - creates new classes of broadcasting licenses in line with the proposals in
the White Paper.
Although the Company's affiliates (M-Net Ltd. and Orbicom) hold a
broadcasting signal distribution and uplink licenses, MultiChoice Africa
requires a license for the DStv service within the new regulatory framework.
MultiChoice Africa is presently making submissions to the IBA in this regard.
Investigation. The South African Competition Board on June 22, 1999
released its report concerning certain business practices of MultiChoice Africa.
The Board was, inter alia, of the opinion that the refusal by MultiChoice Africa
to do business with DSAT Select (Pty) Limited (which markets a bundled product
consisting of hardware, software and digital signal) does not constitute a
restrictive practice under South Africa's Maintenance and Promotion of
Competition Act. In addition, the Board found that MultiChoice Africa's pricing
policy, insofar as it discriminated between equivalent transactions in the
rental and retail markets, was a restrictive practice. MultiChoice Africa fully
accepts and has taken steps to comply with this finding. As an ancillary issue,
the Board raised a concern that the proprietary ownership by MultiChoice Africa
of the conditional access system in decoders could constitute a powerful
mechanism to exclude other broadcasters from the market. The Board recommended
that the Minister of Trade and Industry bring this to the attention of the IBA
and the Competition Commission.
Greece
General. The regulatory framework governing the establishment and
operation of free-to-air television stations in Greece is provided by Law
2328/95 on the "Legal Status of Private Television and Local Radio, Regulation
of Several Issues related to the Radio Television Market and Other Provisions"
(the "Free-to-Air Law"). The Greek government recently enacted a new law (Law
2644/98 on "The provision of pay television and radio services and other
provisions") that regulates pay television (via satellite, terrestrial relays or
cable) by the use of analog or digital methods of transmission (the
"Pay-Television Law"). Prior to the enactment of the Pay-Television Law,
pay-television was regulated by the Free-to-Air Law, some provisions of which
survive, as described below.
The Free-to-Air Law Before the enactment of the Pay-Television Law, the
Free-to-Air Law granted Greek Radio Television SA ("ERT"), the state-owned
broadcasting entity, the exclusive right to broadcast encrypted television
signals in Greece. ERT was permitted to further assign such rights to third
parties. Based on this legislation, NetMed Hellas entered into an agreement with
ERT on October 15, 1994, pursuant to which NetMed Hellas' encrypted service is
transmitted on a frequency allocated by ERT. This agreement has been approved by
a joint decision of the Minister of Press and Mass Media and the Minister of
Finance and ratified by Law 2328/95.
The October 1994 agreement was extended and supplemented by a further
agreement dated December 29, 1995 which relates to the transmission of a second
encrypted service on a frequency allocated by ERT. This further agreement was
also approved by joint ministerial decision.
These agreements require NetMed Hellas to pay certain fees to ERT equal to
6.5% of subscription fees payable by subscribers who subscribe to only one
service and 5.0% of subscription fees payable by subscribers who subscribe to
both services. NetMed Hellas is required to provide a bank guarantee in an
amount of GRD 1 billion each year to secure these payments.
19
<PAGE>
So long as the cooperation agreements with ERT are in force, regulations
concerning the share capital composition of free-to-air television are not
applicable to NetMed Hellas, which is subject to the terms of such agreements
with ERT. The regulations with ERT ensure that NetMed B.V. and NetMed Hellas (or
any other company which has the control of the group of companies to which
NetMed Hellas belongs) shall be liable towards ERT for the fulfillment of the
obligations of NetMed Hellas in accordance with the cooperation agreement.
Additionally, ERT's approval is required for the transfer of the majority of the
shares to NetMed Hellas and the transfer of less shares than the majority
requires ERT to be notified. ERT has also the right to be provided with detailed
information if the new shareholders or the new share capital are directly
entered into NetMed Hellas. These regulations are in effect for the entire term
of the agreement with ERT.
Pay-Television Law. Under the new Pay-Television Law, the rights to
provide pay-television through terrestrial, satellite or cable broadcast can be
secured either by obtaining a license directly from the Greek government or by
signing of a cooperation agreement with any holder of a license. Accordingly,
the existing agreement between NetMed Hellas and ERT is sufficient to secure
terrestrial broadcast rights for the Company.
Upon the expiration of that agreement in October 1999, NetMed Hellas could
either cooperate with a license holder or seek a license directly. Under the new
Pay-Television Law, no single shareholder of a company having a terrestrial
license may hold more than 40% of the capital stock of such company.
With regard to digital, a license for the provision of pay television and
radio services via satellite was received by MultiChoice Hellas on July 15,
1999. MultiChoice Hellas and the Greek government are presently negotiating the
Concession Agreement which is required in terms of the Greek Satellite License.
EU Regulation. The EU Broadcasting Without Frontiers Directive (the
"Directive") of October 3, 1989 established the basic principles for the
regulation of broadcasting activity in the EU. In essence, it provides that each
EU broadcasting service should be regulated by the authorities of one member
state (the "home member state") and that certain minimum standards should be
required by each member state of all broadcasting services that state's
authorities regulate.
The Directive currently requires member states to ensure "where
practicable and by appropriate means" that the broadcasters reserve "a majority
proportion of their transmission time" for programs produced in Europe. In
applying this rule, broadcast time for news, games, advertisements, sports
events, infomercials, and teletext services is excluded. The Directive
recognizes that member states are to move progressively towards requiring their
broadcasters to devote a majority of relevant transmission time to programs
produced in Europe, having regard to the broadcaster's informational,
educational, cultural and entertainment responsibilities to the viewing public.
Thailand
Since September 1992, television broadcasting in Thailand has fallen under
the control of the National Broadcasting Commission of the Prime Minister's
office. Private investors are not allowed to own television stations. The Thai
Television Co. Ltd. was established by the Public Relations Department of
Thailand (the "PRD") and other government agencies as a state enterprise to
operate Thailand's first television station. Following enactment of the Thai
Radio and Television Broadcasting Act of BE 2498 (AD 1955) (the "RTBA"),
television broadcasting commenced on June 24, 1955. In 1977, MCOT was
established to operate mass media businesses on behalf of the government. The
Thai Television Co. Ltd. was then dissolved, and its assets and operations were
transferred to MCOT. As a consequence of developments in technology, the RTBA
was amended in 1987 to allow television broadcasts to be made to the public
through cable and electronic means.
Since January 13, 1994, pursuant to certain ministerial regulations dated
October 13, 1993, companies in the private sector have had the right to apply,
in the case of Bangkok transmissions, to the PRD and, in the case of
transmissions outside Bangkok, to the PRD or the Regional Public Relations
Centre, for a license to supply cable television. Those applications for
licenses are considered by a committee appointed by the Prime Minister. Such
licenses, on the basis of the regulations, permit the supply of television
through fibre optic or electric cable, but not through other means, including
wireless transmission, such as microwave signal as currently utilized by UBC.
At present, there are two major government bodies which regulate and
monitor media companies and their activities, MCOT and the PRD. The PRD is a
regulatory body controlled by the Prime Minister's office. It has a similar
scope of responsibilities to MCOT and is responsible for monitoring terrestrial
stations and issuing licenses for new commercial free-to-air and satellite
stations. The PRD also runs Channel 11, which is the only state education
television station in Thailand.
Both MCOT and the PRD have wide regulatory powers. Since their scope of
responsibilities overlap significantly, many companies apply for licenses to
broadcast from both entities. At present, UBC and UBC Cable require and have
obtained a license from the PRD to utilize certain frequencies and concessions
from MCOT to operate pay-television businesses.
20
<PAGE>
On April 17, 1989, MCOT and UBC entered a joint venture agreement for the
provision of subscription television service which was subsequently amended on
May 19, 1994 and April 17, 1998 (together, the "UBC Concession"). UBC is
permitted to operate subscription television on behalf of MCOT until September
30, 2014. UBC is entitled to provide subscription television pursuant to the UBC
Concession to the whole of Thailand, using satellite to provide a direct-to-home
service to the whole of Thailand, cable in the provincial areas, MMDS as
permitted by the Post and Telegraph Department and by satellite to hubs in
provincial areas and then through local cable networks to subscribers. In
exchange, UBC pays MCOT 6.5% of the gross revenue derived from the operation of
the subscription television business in each year during the period of the UBC
Concession as consideration for the agreement, subject to a minimum amount per
annum.
Subscription fees or other subscriber charges and the form of contracts
with subscribers must be submitted to MCOT for prior clearance.
On November 12, 1993, MCOT and Telecom Asia entered into a memorandum of
agreement for a joint venture for the provision of cable television services.
Pursuant to its terms, Telecom Asia agreed to set up a public company to operate
a cable television business. On June 6, 1994, MCOT and UBC Cable entered into a
contract for the joint operation of subscription television services (the "UBC
Cable Concession"). The Company is permitted to operate subscription television
on behalf of MCOT until December 31, 2019. UBC Cable is entitled to provide
subscription television pursuant to the UBC Cable Concession in Bangkok and
elsewhere. UBC Cable pays MCOT 6.5% of the gross revenue derived from the
operation of the subscription television business in each year during the period
of the concession as consideration for the agreement, subject to a minimum
amount per annum.
On February 16, 1998, UBC entered into various agreements for the
acquisition of a 97.85% shareholding in UBC Cable from Telecom Holding.
Meanwhile, Telecom Holding acquired a 49.5% shareholding in UBC in order to
consolidate the position of both UBC and UBC Cable in the Thai market and to
rationalise the cost of providing a pay-TV service to subscribers in Thailand.
Thailand recently introduced a new competition law, the Trade Competition
Act, BE2542 (the "Competition Act"). The Competition Act extends the regulation
of competition in Thailand, and also addresses specific anticompetitive
activities. Contravention of the Competition Act carries penalties including the
imposition of restrictions and compulsory restructuring. Under the Competition
Act, the Ministry of Commerce requires companies that had acted in a
monopolistic manner or in a manner which, in relation to certain specific
activities, reduced or eliminated competition, to submit a request for the
approval for such action. Requests which relate to actions prior to April 30,
1999 must have been submitted by July 28, 1999. The board of directors of UBC
believes that the activities of UBC do not fall within the ambit of the Act and,
accordingly, that UBC was not required to submit such request. However, in order
for UBC to preserve its rights, and without admitting any liability, UBC
submitted a request for approval to the relevant authority. The request relates
both to UBC's current activities as the only offeror of pay-television services
in Thailand and the acquisition last year by UBC of UBC Cable.
RISK FACTORS
In addition to other information contained in this Annual Report,
prospective investors should consider carefully the following factors in
evaluating the Company and its business before making an investment in the
securities of the Company.
Holding Company Structure; Significant Limitations on Access to Cash Flow of
Subsidiaries and Joint Ventures
MIH Limited is a holding company that has no significant business
operations or assets other than its interest in its subsidiaries, joint ventures
and other investments. Accordingly, MIH Limited must rely entirely upon
distributions and repayment of advances from its subsidiaries, joint ventures
and other investments to generate the funds necessary to meet its obligations
and its other cash flow needs, including for working capital, capital
expenditures and acquisitions. MIH Limited's subsidiaries and joint ventures are
separate and distinct legal entities that have no obligation, contingent or
otherwise, to make any funds available to it, whether by dividends, loans or
other payments. In addition, the ability of MIH Limited's subsidiaries and joint
ventures to make distributions to MIH Limited is subject, in certain
jurisdictions, to applicable foreign investment and exchange laws and the
availability of foreign exchange in sufficient quantities in those countries.
The amount of such distributions from these entities will be affected by the
current regulatory systems in these jurisdictions, primarily the provisions
relating to exchange controls. See "-South African Exchange Control".
Furthermore, because consent is required of the joint venture partners in some
of the MIH Limited's joint ventures for distributions from such joint ventures,
MIH Limited's ability to receive distributions from such joint ventures is
dependent on the cooperation of its joint venture partners. See "-Dependence on
Local Parties; Absence of Control of Joint Ventures". Thus, there can be no
assurance that MIH Limited will be able to realize benefits from its
subsidiaries, joint ventures and other investments through the receipt of
distributions at such times and in such amounts as it
21
<PAGE>
desires. Any failure by MIH Limited to receive distributions from its
subsidiaries, joint ventures or other investments would restrict its ability to
pay dividends on the Class A Ordinary Shares and would otherwise have a material
adverse effect on the Company. In the event that the Company were unable to meet
its working capital needs and capital expenditure requirements with cash
generated from its subsidiaries, joint ventures or other investments, the
Company would have to consider various options, such as incurring indebtedness,
obtaining additional equity capital or selling its assets. There can be no
assurance that the Company will be able to raise new equity capital, refinance
its outstanding indebtedness or obtain new financing in the future or that, if
the Company is able to do so, the terms available will be favorable to the
Company. See "Item 9. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations-Liquidity and Capital Resources".
History of Operating Losses
The Company or its predecessors had operating losses of $43.8 million,
$42.7 million and $24.1 million for the years ended March 31, 1999, 1998 and
1997, respectively, and an accumulated loss of $382.4 million as of March 31,
1999. See "Selected Financial and Operating Data". The Company expects to
continue to generate operating losses as it expands its businesses and attempts
to increase its subscriber base. There can be no assurance that the Company will
ever be able to achieve or maintain profitable operations. See "Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations".
Risks Associated with Growth Strategies
Acquisitions
Part of the Company's growth strategy includes, inter alia, the selective
acquisitions of and investments in pay-television, Internet services,
interactive television services and pay-media technology businesses in different
countries. There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to identify
and acquire such businesses on satisfactory terms, if at all, or that the funds
necessary to finance such acquisitions or investments will be available. The
magnitude, timing and nature of future acquisitions will depend upon various
factors (some of which are beyond the Company's control), including the
availability of suitable acquisition candidates, the negotiation of acceptable
terms, the Company's financial capabilities, the availability of skilled
employees to manage the acquired companies, receipt of any required regulatory
approvals and general economic and business conditions. In addition, future
acquisitions by the Company will involve certain risks, including the risk that
they will require increased capital and operating expenditures associated with
upgrading acquired systems to the Company's standards and the risk that the
costs of integrating such businesses may have a material adverse effect on the
Company's operating results. The integration of acquired businesses may also
lead to diversion of management attention from other ongoing business concerns.
The consummation of certain acquisitions may lead to the Company recognizing
goodwill, which would be subject to amortization that reduces the Company's net
profits in subsequent financial reporting periods. See "-Business-Objectives and
Strategy".
Rapid Growth
The Company has experienced rapid growth in a relatively short period of
time. If the Company is able to implement successfully its business strategy,
the Company will experience additional growth and expansion. The management of
such growth will require, among other things, the continued development of the
Company's financial and management controls, the stringent control of costs and
the increased employment and retention of qualified personnel. Failure to manage
its growth successfully could have a material adverse effect on the Company.
Cost of Receivers
The Company's growth depends, in part, upon its ability to attract new
pay-television customers, many of whom are required to make an up-front
investment in purchasing the equipment necessary to receive the Company's
transmissions. The cost of such equipment may discourage potential subscribers.
The Company believes that the current price of such equipment is low enough to
attract a significant number of subscribers and expects that the price will
decrease over time; however, the Company's market penetration and growth may be
impeded if the cost of the equipment necessary to receive its broadcasts does
not decrease. There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to
establish a substantial customer base in new markets or grow or maintain a
substantial customer base in existing markets.
Greek Operations
The Company's growth strategy in Greece includes the planned launch of a
digital platform upon the conclusion of the concession agreement that is
required in terms of the license that MultiChoice Hellas has received for the
provision of pay radio and television services via satellite. There can be no
assurance, however,
22
<PAGE>
concerning the timing of this Agreement. The Company is currently incurring
expenses with regard to its Greek digital operations, and accordingly, any delay
or inability to launch the digital platform could materially adversely affect
the Company's business in that market.
Dependence on Local Parties; Absence of Control of Joint Ventures
Many of the Company's operations have been developed in cooperation or
partnership with key local parties. With regard to such operations, the Company
is dependent on its local partners to provide knowledge of the local market
conditions and to facilitate the acquisition of necessary licenses and permits.
Any failure by the Company to form or maintain alliances with local partners, or
the preemption or disruption of such alliances by the Company's competitors or
otherwise, could adversely affect the Company's ability to penetrate and compete
successfully in many of the markets it operates or enters. Certain of the
Company's businesses may be vulnerable to local governmental or
quasi-governmental entities or other third parties who wish to renegotiate the
terms and conditions of, or terminate, their agreements or other understandings
with the Company.
Significant actions by most of the Company's ventures, such as approving
budgets and business plans, declaring and paying dividends and entering into
significant transactions, effectively require the approval of the Company's
local partners. Accordingly, the Company does not have unilateral control over
the operations of many of its joint ventures, which limits the Company's
flexibility and, under certain circumstances, could adversely affect the
Company's business strategy and operating results in the applicable region.
Availability of Programming
The success of the Company's pay-television business will be dependent on
its ability to continue to obtain attractive programming at commercially
reasonable costs. The Company is dependent on third party suppliers for
substantially all of its programming. A large portion of the Company's
programming is purchased from content providers in the United States and Europe.
The competition for the most attractive programming contracts, including major
sports and premium Hollywood movies, is intense, and in the event that any of
the Company's contracts are canceled or not renewed, the Company would be
required to seek alternative programming from other sources. There can be no
assurance that alternative programming would be available to the Company on
acceptable terms or at all or, if so available, that such programming would
appeal to the Company's subscribers. The Company's strategy also depends on its
ability to offer attractive programming on an exclusive basis. There can be no
assurance that the Company will continue to obtain exclusive rights to such
programming. See "Business-Television platforms".
Competition
Television platforms
Although the Company is currently the only major provider of
pay-television services in each of its markets, the Company competes directly
with both state-owned and private national free-to-air broadcast networks and
regional and local broadcast stations for audience share, programming and
advertising revenue and indirectly with motion picture theaters, video rental
stores and other entertainment and leisure activities for general leisure
spending. The markets in which the Company operates are in a constant state of
change due to technological, economic and regulatory developments. The Company
is unable to predict what forms of competition will develop in the future, the
extent of such competition or its possible effects on the Company's businesses.
See "Business-Television platforms".
Technology
The market for the products and services offered by the Company's Mindport
division is highly competitive. The Company competes with numerous other
entities, including other pay-television providers, many of which have
substantially greater financial resources than the Company. Current and
potential competitors in one or more aspects of the Mindport product line
include television and other system software companies, interactive television
system providers and multimedia authoring tool providers. There are also
numerous businesses with the expertise and financial resources necessary to
enter the markets in which Mindport operates. Competition in these markets is
also greatly affected by technological developments, which may make the
Company's products and services obsolete or less competitive. See
"-Business-Technology".
Internet
The market for Internet access and related services is extremely
competitive. The Company anticipates that competition will continue to intensify
as the use of the Internet grows. The tremendous growth and potential market
size of the Internet access market has attracted many start-up companies as well
as existing businesses from different industries. Competitors include, in
addition to national, regional and local Internet service providers, long
distance and local exchange telecommunications companies, cable television
companies, direct
23
<PAGE>
broadcast satellite and other wireless communications providers and on-line
service providers. Many such competitors have longer operating histories and
substantially greater financial, technical, marketing and personnel resources as
well as greater name recognition than does the Company.
Dependence Upon Satellites
The Company's digital programming is or will be transmitted to customers
through different satellites around the world, and in certain regions its
terrestrial analog signal is also transmitted to regional broadcast points
through satellites. In addition, the Company receives a significant amount of
its programming through satellites. Satellites are subject to significant risks,
including defects, launch failure, incorrect orbital placement and destruction
and damage, that may prevent or impair proper commercial operations. All
satellites have limited useful lives, which vary as a result of their
construction, the durability of their components, the capability of their solar
arrays and batteries, the amount of station keeping fuel remaining once in
orbit, the launch vehicle used and the accuracy of the launch. In addition,
there can be no assurance that satellites will achieve their minimum design
life. Furthermore, the Company's transponder lease agreements do not guarantee
the minimum useful life of any satellites. Although the Company has not
experienced any significant disruption of its transmissions, the operation of
satellites is beyond the control of the Company. Future launch failures or
disruption of the transmissions of satellites that are already operational could
have a material adverse effect on the Company. In addition, the ability of the
Company to transmit its programming following the expected useful lives of its
current satellites and to broadcast additional channels will depend upon the
ability of the Company to obtain rights to utilize transponders on other
satellites. The Company does not currently have alternative satellite contracts
in place, and in the event of a satellite failure, transponder capacity on other
satellites must be procured. There can be no assurance that the Company will be
able to obtain any such rights or that the cost of such rights will be
commercially acceptable to the Company.
Dependence on Transmission and Production Facilities
The Company is dependent on its own transmission and production facilities
as well as those of its programming suppliers and affiliates to provide its
pay-television services. If a natural disaster or other event, such as a
lightning strike, results in the operations at any of these facilities being
disrupted for any significant period of time or inventory located there being
damaged, a prolonged suspension of the Company's pay-television services could
occur and the results of operations and financial condition of the Company could
be materially adversely affected. Although the Company maintains insurance
coverage on its own transmission and production facilities, there can be no
assurance that such insurance proceeds would be available on a timely basis or
be sufficient to fully offset such losses.
Change in Technology
The pay-television industry as a whole is, and is likely to continue to
be, subject to rapid and significant changes in technology. Although the Company
believes that, for the foreseeable future, existing and developing alternative
technologies will not materially adversely affect the viability or
competitiveness of its pay-television business, there can be no assurance as to
the effect of such technological changes on the Company. In addition, changes in
technology, including enhancements of the Company's existing technology, may
require the Company to expend substantial financial resources to remain
competitive.
New technologies or industry standards have the potential to replace or
provide lower cost alternatives to the products and services of Mindport. The
adoption of such new technologies or industry standards could render the
Company's planned products and services obsolete or less competitive.
Risk of Unauthorized Access
As with all providers of subscription television programming, the Company
faces the risk that its various programming signals will be obtained by
unauthorized users. For this reason, the delivery of subscription programming
requires the use of encryption technology to prevent unauthorized access to
programming or "piracy". The Company currently utilizes encryption technology
supplied to it by Mindport. The Company believes that this encryption technology
adequately prevents unauthorized access. There can be no assurance, however,
that such encryption technology is, or will remain, effective in preventing such
unauthorized access. In addition, encryption technology cannot prevent the
illegal retransmission or sharing of a television signal once it has been
decrypted. If the Company fails to control unauthorized access to its
transmission, its revenues and its ability to contract for programming services
could be adversely affected.
Internet Business Risks
A significant part of the Company's strategy is to develop Internet
businesses. As is typical in the case of a new and rapidly evolving industry
characterized by rapidly changing technology, evolving industry standards and
frequent new product and service introductions, demand and market acceptance for
recently introduced products
24
<PAGE>
and services on the Internet are subject to a high level of uncertainty. In
addition, critical issues concerning the commercial use of the Internet remain
unresolved and may impact the growth of Internet use. These issues include a
perceived lack of security of commercial data (such as credit card numbers) and
capacity constraints resulting in delays, transmission errors and other
difficulties. These and other issues affecting the Internet industry may be
particularly aggravated in the countries in which the Company may enter the
Internet business, which may have a less developed Internet culture. If, in the
areas in which the Company launches its Internet business, the market for
Internet access services fails to develop, develops more slowly than expected or
becomes saturated with competitors, or if the Internet access and services to be
offered by the Company are not broadly accepted, the Company's growth strategy
could be materially adversely affected. Other Internet business risks include:
(i) the inability to obtain attractive content, (ii) unauthorized access,
viruses and other disruptive problems, (iii) dependence on telecommunications
providers and (iv) changes in technology that would require the Company to
modify its Internet business.
South African Exchange Control
MIH Limited's South African subsidiaries are subject to significant
restrictions on their ability to remit funds outside of South Africa. South
African exchange control regulations provide for a common monetary area
consisting of South Africa, Lesotho, Namibia and Swaziland (the "CMA").
Transactions between South African residents and non-CMA residents are subject
to South African exchange control regulations. South African residents,
including companies, are generally not permitted to export capital from South
Africa or to hold foreign currency without the approval of The South African
Reserve Bank (the "Reserve Bank"), and restrictions are imposed on their foreign
investments. In addition, South African companies are generally required to
repatriate to South Africa those profits of foreign operations which are not
required to fund their ongoing business operations. These exchange control
regulations effectively prevent the Company from receiving distributions from
its South African subsidiaries. While such restrictions have been liberalized in
recent years, a South African company's ability to raise and deploy capital
outside South Africa remains subject to significant restrictions. Although
approximately two-thirds of the Company's revenue is generated by its businesses
in the CMA and their subsidiaries and joint ventures, the Company believes that
the South African exchange control restrictions will not affect its ability to
fulfill its various payment obligations.
Foreign Currency Risks
Although a substantial portion of the Company's revenue is denominated in
the currencies of the countries in which it operates, a significant portion of
its cash obligations, including the payment obligations under its satellite
transponder leases and its contracts for programming and channels for its
pay-television platforms, are denominated in U.S. dollars. In those areas where
the Company's revenue is denominated in local currency, a depreciation of that
currency against the U.S. dollar could adversely affect the Company's earnings
and its ability to meet its cash obligations. Similarly, where the Company
prices its products and services in U.S. dollars or U.S. dollar equivalents, a
depreciation of the local currency would make the Company's products more
expensive for its customers and could have an adverse impact on the Company's
sales. Many of the Company's operations are in countries or regions where there
has been substantial depreciation of the local currency against the U.S. dollar
in recent years. Although most of the Company's operating entities hedge a
substantial portion of their currency risks, there can be no assurance that any
such hedging will fully protect the Company or that the Company will continue to
hedge such risks in the future.
The Company's reporting currency is the U.S. dollar. The Company conducts
and will continue to conduct business transactions in currencies other than its
reporting currency; accordingly, appreciation or depreciation in the value of
other currencies as compared to the reporting currency will result in
translation gains or losses which, if the appreciation or depreciation is
significant, could be material.
Social and Political Factors
Many of the countries in which the Company operates are subject to social,
political or economic factors that may materially adversely affect the Company's
business. South Africa is a nascent democracy that is in the early stages of
addressing a large wealth differential among its citizens. In recent years,
South Africa has also experienced high levels of crime and unemployment, which
have, among other things, impeded foreign investment in South Africa and
prompted an emigration of skilled workers. In addition, Thailand has recently
experienced adverse economic developments, as have a number of other countries
in Southeast Asia. These developments include currency depreciations, increased
interest rates, economic slowdown or contraction, increases in corporate
bankruptcies, stock market declines and government imposed austerity measures.
These or other adverse developments or government reactions to them could
adversely affect the Company's business. In addition, the Company does and may
begin to do business in other countries that have political, social or economic
factors that could adversely affect the Company's business. Although governments
in each of the above countries have taken steps toward addressing these factors,
it is not possible to predict whether or to what extent these steps will succeed
in achieving their objectives or what effect these steps or these problems will
have on companies doing business in these countries.
25
<PAGE>
Technology
Overview
The Company's technology division, Mindport, provides a comprehensive
package of technology products and support services to pay-media operators
worldwide. These products and services include IBS subscriber management
systems, Irdeto conditional access systems and the OpenTV operating system for
interactive television, along with others. Mindport's products are designed to
be flexible, configurable and scalable, allowing them to be used by a variety of
different customers and to be integrated in systems using the products of
Mindport's competitors. Mindport's diverse and well integrated product line also
allows it to act as a single source for fulfilling a customer's pay-media
technology needs, particularly in the growing market for interactive television.
The Company believes that Mindport will be able to capitalize on the anticipated
growth in interactive platforms and the anticipated convergence of television,
telephony and the Internet in order for it to expand its customer base.
The following table lists certain of Mindport's major customers and the
products they use:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Customer Market IBS Irdeto Access OpenTV
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
MultiChoice(1) South Africa x x x
Sub-Saharan Africa x x x
Greece x x Future
Middle East x x Future
UBC(1) Thailand x x Future
Canal+ Europe(2) x x
EchoStar United States Future
CBSat China Trial Trial Trial
Stream Italy x x
Galaxy Latin America Latin America(2) x
DirecTV Japan x
Optus Australia x x
Foxtel Australia x
BSkyB UK x
TPS France x
TDK Denmark x
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Subscribers (000's)(3) 3,724 4,471 2,568
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
(1) All transactions between Mindport and MIH Limited's other subsidiaries and
affiliates are conducted on an arms'-length basis.
(2) Certain countries only.
(3) As of March 31, 1999.
Mindport's ability to provide a "one-stop-shop" for pay media technology
needs is valuable to new interactive platform providers who can speed their time
to market by utilizing Mindport technology. A good example of this is the
Company's recent agreement to provide conditional access systems, subscriber
management systems and the OpenTV operating system to CBSat, the first provider
of trial digital satellite services in the People's Republic of China. CBSat's
system is being deployed in small numbers on a test basis in 1999, with a
possible broader rollout thereafter.
IBS
Mindport's IBS software provides pay-media operators with a broad range of
subscriber management services and products that combine customer care, billing
and logistics functionality in one integrated system. IBS supports all types of
subscriber-based businesses, including pay-television operators, Internet
service providers and data broadcasters over a wide range of delivery platforms.
Mindport's IBS system is a flexible, configurable and highly scalable product,
that can service pay-media operations of vastly different sizes.
Mindport IBS has historically generated revenues by charging up-front
license fees and monthly customer service and support fees. Recently, Mindport
has begun to collect from certain customers license revenues and support fees
scaled to the customers' subscriber numbers, paid on a monthly basis. Mindport
currently provides IBS to 25 customers, including certain platforms of Canal+,
DirecTVJapan and many of the Company's operating entities. IBS's competition in
its current and planned future markets includes approximately 40 companies
worldwide, including Wiztec and CableData, who focus on pay-television, and
Saville, LHS Group, CSG and Amdocs, who focus primarily on telephony operators.
The Company believes that the demand for subscriber management services
will increase as operators seek to provide more advanced technology to their
customers. IBS is able to support changes and accommodate new platforms,
including analog, digital and interactive systems. In addition, IBS is a highly
scalable software package, as demonstrated in testing by major U.S. hardware and
software producers who verified its scalability to several million subscribers.
26
<PAGE>
Today, IBS is a leading subscriber management software package for
pay-television. The Company plans to continually redefine the IBS architecture
to improve on its configurability, flexibility and scalability. The Company also
plans to take advantage of the system's flexibility to penetrate new markets for
IBS, such as Internet service, cable, data broadcasting and telephony providers.
In addition, the Company also plans to introduce an IBS for the Internet market
that can run on a laptop and a product capable of tracking interactive
television applications, especially interactive commerce transactions.
Irdeto Access
Irdeto Access provides digital and analog conditional access systems to 14
customers operating in over 20 countries. These systems enable pay-television
operators to encrypt and decrypt their broadcast signals and thus control
subscriber access to programs, services and events.
The Company believes that its digital conditional access system's
flexibility, compatibility with multiple equipment vendors, ease-of-use and
sophisticated security features make it attractive to pay-television operators
worldwide. The system's open architecture allows pay-television operators to
incorporate as few or as many features as they require and adjust these features
as their needs change. Irdeto Access offers M-Crypt, a system specifically for
pay-media providers with fewer than 100,000 subscribers. M-Crypt allows these
operators to reduce their investment in computing equipment and third-party
software licenses and is easily upgradable if the operator's subscriber base
were to grow past a certain size. Mindport also produces an analog conditional
access system that is also based upon a modular and flexible design. This allows
the Company to tap into price sensitive markets that will not be considering
digital services for some years to come.
Irdeto Access licenses its technology to various manufacturers to produce
its conditional access systems and generates revenues by charging an up-front
license fee along with a fee for each conditional access unit sold. The major
users of Mindport's conditional access systems include Stream, Telepiu, Canal+
and certain of the Company's operating entities. As of March 31, 1999, Mindport
had supplied approximately 1.6 million digital and 2.9 million analog
conditional access units.
The principal products competing with Irdeto Access include MediaGuard,
ViaAccess, NDS and NagraVision. The Company believes that a customer's primary
consideration in choosing among conditional access systems are system security
and dependability and that Irdeto Access enjoys a solid reputation for both of
these qualities.
Mindport's strategy for Irdeto Access encompasses four main goals: (i)
reduce the cost of ownership for both digital and analog conditional access
systems; (ii) develop the next generation conditional access products; (iii)
implement an analog sales operation in new markets; and (iv) develop an MPEG-2
encryption product for the Internet. The Company has a team of engineers
dedicated to conditional access design and development who are responsible for
developing new products, increasing the functionality of existing products and
reducing costs through increased chip functionality. Mindport's management
believes that further price reductions may be achieved by cutting production
costs, shifting production to locales with lower manufacturing costs and
reducing royalty costs by re-examining certain partnerships and business
relationships dealing with developing conditional access technology. The Company
recently acquired TV/COM International Inc., a San Diego based company that
holds intellectual property licensed to Irdeto for use in its conditional access
systems.
OpenTV
OpenTV is a leading provider of operating system software for digital
set-top boxes used in both satellite and cable television systems. Several
digital satellite operators, including TPS in France, EchoStar in the United
States, BSkyB in the United Kingdom and CBSat in China, are using or have
entered into agreements to use the OpenTV software system. TPS is presently
OpenTV's largest customer with over 890,000 set-top boxes deployed as of March
31, 1999. TPS has used OpenTV software to gain market share in France by
deploying interactive television applications and services that attract and
retain subscribers. Using OpenTV's development tools, TPS designs its own
virtual channels, including an electronic programming guide and interactive
weather service. It has also run a successful interactive advertising spot for
Renault.
OpenTV's operating system software manages all of the basic functionality
of the digital set-top box and enables it to run interactive applications. The
OpenTV operating system is extremely flexible and is currently being used with a
variety of decoders. In addition, OpenTV provides pay-media operators with
easy-to-use software tools such as its Software Development Kit and Open Author,
which permit the operators themselves to design their own interactive services.
The open architecture of OpenTV's operating system software means that it can be
used with any conditional access system and can support a number of different
head-end systems. Another feature of the OpenTV operating system is its ability
to manage and handle several interactive applications simultaneously.
OpenTV derives its revenue from a licensing fee per set-top box,
maintenance and support fees, licenses of proprietary software tools supporting
the OpenTV system and consulting fees. As of March 31, 1999, the OpenTV
operating system had been installed in approximately 2.5 million set-top boxes.
27
<PAGE>
At present, OpenTV's competitors include Microsoft, Liberate,
MediaHighway, Wink and PowerTV. In the future, other software companies may
decide to compete directly with OpenTV in the digital interactive television
software market. OpenTV believes that its future competitors must overcome
OpenTV's first to-market advantage and the significant head start that it enjoys
in developing interactive television software. In addition, applications
developed with OpenTV software function at the head-end level and are
independent of the set-top box, thereby providing two principal advantages.
First, any improvements or enhancements can be downloaded over the digital
signal received by the set-top box, making the dissemination of upgrades simple
and inexpensive. Second, applications based upon the OpenTV operating system
enjoy protection against decoder obsolescence since the software is used with
different set-top box technologies. To date, OpenTV's customers have developed
interactive applications using OpenTV's software development tools, or they have
contracted with OpenTV to develop applications on a consulting basis. OpenTV is
now developing a suite of interactive applications that it will market to
customers on a licensing or revenue sharing basis.
The present strategy for OpenTV is to become the leading operating system
for interactive applications on digital media platforms worldwide, complete the
development and introduction of applications such as home banking and home
shopping and to enhance its products and services for greater exploitation of
the Internet.
Other Products
Media Commerce Technologies. Mindport is currently developing software in
three application areas as part of its plan to develop the tools, technologies
and supporting structures that will enable pay-television operators to provide
comprehensive interactive broadcast services. The first consists of applications
for interactive television, such as extended electronic program guides, virtual
channels and program enhancement. The second is fulfilment services, which use
Internet commerce technologies that have been adapted for the broadcast
platform. The third application area, infrastructure technologies, provides the
common communications infrastructure for media commerce.
Mindpack. Mindport's Media Asset Management System enables digital
pay-television operators to manage contracts, control their program libraries,
manage license tracking and utilize multiple-language electronic program guides.
Consulting. Mindport Solutions is a new division intended to capitalize on
the expertise within the Mindport group to offer consultancy services and
turnkey solutions to new pay-television operators. This division was
instrumental in securing the CBSat trial DTH system contract.
Employees
At March 31, 1999, the Company had 3,511 full-time employees. None of the
Company's full-time employees are unionized. The Company believes its labor
relations are satisfactory.
Intellectual Property
The Company relies on a combination of patents, licensing arrangements,
trade names, trademarks and proprietary technology to protect its intellectual
property rights. The Company owns, or has been assigned or licensed the rights
to, several patents and has several patent applications in various jurisdictions
relating to its proprietary technology. In addition, the Company currently has
numerous trademarks (pending and registered) in countries where it conducts
business. Some of the Company's major trademarks include the names and logos of
Irdeto, Mindport, OpenTV, DStv and MultiChoice.
The Company may file additional patent and trademark applications in the
future, although there can be no assurance that the Company will be successful
in obtaining patents or trademark registrations based upon such applications.
The Company intends to vigorously protect its intellectual property rights. It
may be possible, however, for a third party to copy or otherwise obtain and use
the Company's technology without authorization or to develop similar technology
independently. Furthermore, the laws of certain countries in which the Company
sells its products do not protect the Company's intellectual property rights to
the same extent as do the laws of the United States.
Environmental Matters
Environmental laws vary significantly among the countries in which the Company
operates. Under certain environmental laws, a current or previous owner of real
property, and parties that generate or transport hazardous substances that are
disposed of on real property, may be liable for the costs of investigating and
remediating such substances on or under the property. Environmental laws also
may impose restrictions on the manner in which property may be used or
businesses may be operated, and these restrictions may require expenditures for
compliance. In connection with the ownership or operation of its facilities, the
Company could be liable for such costs in the future.
The Company is not aware of any material environmental claims pending or
threatened against it, and the Company does not believe it is subject to any
material environmental remediation obligations. However, no assurance can be
given that a material environmental claim or compliance obligation will not
arise in the future.
28
<PAGE>
THE COMPANY
Overview
MIH Limited is incorporated in the British Virgin Islands and conducts its
businesses through subsidiaries and joint ventures. MIH Holdings, which is
quoted on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (the "JSE") under the symbol "MIB",
indirectly owns shares representing 59.98% of the economic interest and 80.6% of
the voting interest of MIH Limited. The shares of MIH Holdings were linked with
those of M-Web, an Internet service provider that was spun off by MIH Holdings
last year. The shares of MIH Holdings were delinked on August 2, 1999. The
diagram on the preceding page summarizes the Company's group structure and
ownership.
Subsidiaries and Joint Ventures
Television platforms
In many of its markets, the Company's television platform businesses
utilize similar corporate structures. These structures generally include a
content management company which provides the content for the television
platform operation, a subscription management business and a service
transmission and distribution business. In each region, these companies may have
local partners.
Africa. The Company operates its South African businesses through
MultiChoice Africa, an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of MIH Limited.
MultiChoice Africa obtains channels from and conducts transmission and
distribution through certain of the Company's affiliates. MultiChoice Africa in
turn has ownership interests in joint ventures operating in Kenya, Ghana,
Uganda, Nigeria, Tanzania, Zambia, Namibia, Botswana and Lesotho. In Africa, the
Company considers several factors when determining the countries within which to
establish joint ventures, including comparative political stability, a free
market economy, adequate infrastructure, a favorable foreign exchange system, a
suitable local partner and sufficient management control. In many other African
nations, the Company operates through agents or franchisees. These parties
conduct marketing and advertising to build the subscriber base and collect
subscription revenues on behalf of the Company. They retain a minor portion of
these subscription revenues as compensation for their services and remit the
balance to the Company.
MultiChoice Middle East Inc. ("MultiChoice Middle East") is a 90.0% owned
subsidiary of MultiChoice Middle East Holdings Inc. ("MultiChoice Middle East
Holdings"), which in turn is 50.0% indirectly owned by MIH Limited. The other
shareholders in MultiChoice Middle East Holdings and MultiChoice Middle East are
strategic regional investors. In Egypt, MIH Limited indirectly owns 10.0% of
CNE, which provides terrestrial analog service, and 75.0% of MultiChoice Egypt
Limited ("MultiChoice Egypt"), which provides subscriber management services to
CNE.
Mediterranean. The Company operates its Mediterranean businesses through
its interest in a holding company, NetMed B.V. MIH Limited owns 52.0% of NetMed
B.V., and MP Communications B.V. ("MP") owns the remaining 48.0%. The Company
holds an option to purchase MP's 48.0% interest on demand at a fixed,
prearranged price that is slightly greater than the price at which MP purchased
that interest from the Company. Pursuant to a shareholders agreement between the
Company and MP, NetMed does not pay dividends. Recent changes in the Greek
regulatory environment may lead to a change in the ownership structure of the
Company's Greek subsidiaries and joint ventures, and the Company is currently
reviewing several alternatives.
NetMed manages its pay-television business through the following operating
subsidiaries:
o MultiChoice Hellas and MultiChoice Cyprus manage the subscriber base and
market and sell television platform services in Greece and Cyprus,
respectively. NetMed B.V., through Myriad Development B.V., owns 51% of
each of MultiChoice Hellas and MultiChoice Cyprus. The remainder of
MultiChoice Hellas is 42.0% owned by Teletypos S.A., a Greek media company
that owns Mega Channel, the second largest Greek free-to-air television
channel. The other 7.0% is owned by Lumiere, a Cypriot investor. Lumiere
also owns the remaining 49.0% of MultiChoice Cyprus. MultiChoice Hellas
and MultiChoice Cyprus collect subscriber revenues, retain a portion as
payment for their services and pass the balance to NetMed Hellas, Lumiere
and Alfa TV.
o NetMed Hellas is 96.0% owned by NetMed B.V. NetMed Hellas operates the
FilmNet, SuperSport and K-T.V. pay-television channels in Greece and
provides programming to Lumiere Services Limited and AlfaTV in Cyprus. The
remaining 4.0% ownership is held by Lumiere Services Limited.
o Synergistic Network Development S.A. is 100.0% owned by NetMed B.V. and is
responsible for signal transmission and distribution.
Asia. The Company conducts its development operations in Asia through its
offices in Hong Kong and Beijing. The Company's first Asian investment is its
joint venture interest in the UBC Group in Thailand. Founded in 1985, UBC is
quoted on the Stock Exchange of Thailand under the symbol "UBC" and had a market
capitalization of Baht 11,852 million ($314.8 million) on March 19, 1999. The
Company became an investor in
29
<PAGE>
UBC in January 1997 and has gradually increased its total share of ownership of
UBC to approximately 27.8% with an option to purchase an additional 3.3% from
London National Corporation. As of March 31, 1999, the remaining shares were
beneficially owned 41.0% by Telecom Holding Company Limited ("Telecom Asia"),
0.4% by MCOT and 30.8% by other private investors and the public. See "Item 9.
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations-Liquidity and Capital Resources-Debt".
The UBC Group's television platform business is managed through four
operating entities. UBC operates the digital satellite and MMDS services and
acts as a holding company for the remaining parts of the business. UBC Cable
Network Public Company Limited ("UBC Cable"), formerly UTV Cable Network Public
Company Limited, which is 97.9% owned by UBC, operates the cable television
services business for the UBC Group. Cineplex Company Limited ("Cineplex"),
which is 99.9% owned by UBC, produces channels featuring movies, drama,
educational programming, news and sports for the UBC Group's television platform
systems. Both UBC Cable and Cineplex were founded by Telecom Asia and later
purchased by UBC. Satellite Services Company Limited, which is 96.0% owned by
UBC, provides certain services used by the UBC Group in its pay-television
systems, including signal transmission and distribution.
Technology
The Company's Mindport division is a leading provider of television
platform software and hardware solutions and services both to the Company's
media businesses and to third-party pay-media operators. The Company operates
its Mindport technology division mainly through its wholly owned subsidiaries
Irdeto Access B.V. and Mindport Integrated Business Systems B.V. together
("Irdeto"). In addition, the Company owns 80.1% of OpenTV (72.3% on a fully
diluted basis after giving effect to the exercise of outstanding stock options),
which produces operating systems for interactive television.
Affiliates
The Company has several non-subsidiary affiliates, including M-Net Ltd.,
SSIH, M-Web and Orbicom. M-Net Ltd. is a publicly traded South African company
that provides the premium film channels carried by the Company on its
pay-television platforms in Africa. SSIH is a publicly traded South African
company that provides the sports channels carried by the Company on its
pay-television systems in Africa and the Middle East. Shares of SSIH are linked
with those of M-Net Ltd., and as of July 23, 1999, their market capitalization
was approximately ZAR 1,165.9 million ($189.0 million). The linking provides
that each share of either company's stock trades with one share of the other
company's stock, with a single price for both shares combined. The shares can be
delinked by declaration by each company's board.
The Company currently owns 19.8% of each M-Net Ltd. and SSIH and is 8.5%
owned by SSIH.
M-Web was formed in 1997 through a series of transactions whereby MIH
Limited contributed its Internet related business to a new entity, M-Web, and
subsequently capitalized it with a special dividend to MIH Holdings. M-Web is a
leading Internet service provider in South Africa. It provides Internet access
and aggregates content oriented toward South Africans. As of March 31, 1999, it
had 126,882 subscribers. The Company currently has no economic or voting
interest in M-Web. However, in order to preserve the perceived equity
relationship between the Company and M-Web, the Company intends, subject to the
requisite shareholder approvals, to acquire by way of a private placement a
number of shares in M-Web equalling up to 10% of M-Web's issued share capital
after such acquisition.
Orbicom, which has recently been acquired by M-Cell, was formerly owned
80.0% by MIH Holdings and 20.0% by the Company. It provides the uplink and
signal backhaul facility for the Company's operations in Africa. Prior to its
acquisition by M-Cell, Orbicom was not operated as a profit center as it
provided its services at cost to various subsidiaries of MIH Holdings, including
the Company. Under the arrangements for the acquisition of Orbicom by M-Cell,
Orbicom's services will continue to be provided to the Company at cost for a
minimum period of two years.
History
In 1985, several large South African media companies formed a pay-media
business, M-Net Ltd., the predecessor to the Company. M-Net Ltd. was listed on
the JSE in 1990.
Effective October 1993, M-Net Ltd. was divided into two companies. The
subscriber management, signal distribution and cellular telephony businesses,
together with the holding in FilmNet, a leading pay-television operator in
Europe, were placed in a new company, MIH Holdings (then called MultiChoice
Ltd.). M-Net Ltd. continued to hold other corporate operations and provide
pay-television programming.
In late 1992, MIH Holdings joined a consortium that procured the second
Global Systems Mobile Communications cellular license awarded in South Africa.
MIH Holdings owned 25.0% of Mobile Telephone Networks Holdings (Proprietary)
Limited ("MTN"), the cellular network operator, and subsequently increased its
30
<PAGE>
stake in MTN to 34.7%. In 1995, MIH Holdings spun off its interest in MTN as a
new corporation, M-Cell. M-Cell is listed on the JSE and has a market
capitalization of approximately ZAR 5,387.4 million ($870.3 million) as of March
19, 1999.
In 1995, Richemont S.A. and MIH Holdings merged their global
pay-television operations, including their interest in FilmNet, the Company's
operations in Africa and Richemont's interest in Telepi , into a single venture
called NetHold B.V. ("NetHold"), which MIH Holdings held through MIH Limited. In
March 1997, the Company and Richemont merged most of NetHold with Canal+, the
French-based pay-television operator. The Company retained NetHold's African,
Mediterranean and Middle East pay-television businesses, acquired 49% of Irdeto,
now part of the Mindport division, and received an interest in Canal+. The
Company has since sold its interest in Canal+ to fund its expansion in Asia. The
Company purchased the remainder of Irdeto from Canal+ in January 1998. The
Company purchased its interests in its Thai pay-television joint venture, UBC,
from 1997 until the present. In 1998, the Company purchased its 44.5% interest
in OpenTV, now a part of the Company's Mindport technology division, and
increased its ownership to 80.1% in March 1999.
In 1997, the Company purchased an Internet service provider and renamed it
M-Web. In March 1998, M-Web was spun off and listed on the JSE.
GLOSSARY OF TECHNICAL TERMS
addressable: A device is addressable if a signal can be transmitted from the
conditional access system to the device instructing it to carry out or cease to
carry out a particular function, for instance, descrambling a signal.
analog: Information is transmitted by varying the phase, amplitude or frequency
of a radio carrier wave with the information that is being transmitted.
bandwidth: The radio frequency spectrum, whether the transmission medium is
physical wire or thin air, can be divided up into any number of "channels". Each
channel takes up a certain amount of space on the frequency spectrum. The amount
of spectrum occupied by the channel is its band width and is usually measured in
kilohertz (kHz) and megahertz (MHz). A broader band width can carry more
information.
bouquet: The channels offered by a pay-television provider on a given
platform.
broadband: High-capacity transmission capability usually associated with
fibre-optic cable. Generally used when discussing video or TV transmission
systems.
C-band: A frequency range of the electromagnetic spectrum used heavily for
satellite transmission, having an uplink frequency at 6 GHz and a downlink
frequency at 4 GHz.
CA module: Conditional access module. Forms part of the conditional access
system.
CATV: Cable television.
co-axial cable: A cable consisting of insulated center conductor and a
concentric outer conductor. Co-axial cable is used primarily for wideband,
video, or radio-frequency applications.
compression: Technology that reduces or lowers the band width or space required
for transmission or storage of a data set.
conditional access system or CAS: The technology that provides for selective
access to specific services including subscription television services.
decoder: The term given to the device in a signal receiver that receives the
scrambled signal and converts it into a quality audio or visual signal for
listening or viewing.
dedicated line: A transmission circuit which is available at all times installed
between two sites of a private network.
digital: A method of storing, processing, or transmitting information in terms
of binary digits.
digital compression: The process of reducing the number of bits required to
store or transmit information in digital form.
dish: A dish collects signals downlinked from a satellite or concentrates them
for uplinking to the satellite.
downlink: The signal that travels from the satellite down to the receivers on
earth.
DStv: Digital satellite television.
31
<PAGE>
DTH: Direct-to-Home. The generic term used to describe the system of signal
transmission from an earth station to a satellite and then to home for viewing.
encryption: Transforms digital or analog data into a format that is
unintelligible without the proper decryption key.
fiber optic cable: A transmission medium that uses glass or plastic fibers
rather than copper wire to transport data or voice signals.
footprint: The geographic area covered by the beam of a satellite, the outer
edge of which is generally defined as that area where the quality of
communication degrades below an acceptable commercial level.
head-end: The source end of a television broadcast system. Head-ends receive
television signals from a variety of sources including satellite or dedicated
line and transmit it through the cable, satellite or terrestrial subscription
networks.
integrated receiver/decoder or IRD: Digital set-top receiver with a built-in
de-scrambler for decoding pay-television services.
Ku-band: A frequency range used for satellite downlink transmissions which falls
within the 12 to 14 GHz range of the electromagnetic spectrum, allowing use of
27 inch (or 90 cm) or smaller ground dishes.
LMDS: Local, Multipoint Distribution Service. LMDS uses low-power transmitters
to broadcast programming to receiving equipment in homes and businesses.
MMDS or a multichannel, multi-point distribution service: Also known as
"wireless cable", MMDS uses high-power transmitters to broadcast programming to
receiving equipment in homes and businesses.
MPEG II: A set of standards developed by the Moving Pictures Experts Group that
details guidelines for access rates, compression and conditional access.
near video-on-demand (VOD): A service on a switched network that allows users to
select individual programmes electronically and watch them instantaneously.
net churn: The percentage of subscribers over a given period who terminate their
subscription, net of former subscribers who reconnect during that period.
pay-per-view: A service which may be offered by subscription TV operators where
subscribers elect to view individual scheduled premium programmes, such as
select movies and sporting events, for a fee.
piracy: Any impersonation, unauthorized browsing, falsification, breach of
copyright, theft of data or disruption of service or control information in a
network.
set-top box: Device used to receive and decode subscription services including
subscription television services for display on television.
scrambler: A device that alters a message at the transmitter to make the message
unintelligible at a receiver not equipped with an appropriate de-scrambling
device.
smart card: A credit card-sized device with embedded processors that provides
entitlement functions and stores decryption keys and digital signatures and
which may be inserted in a set-top box.
subscribers: Viewers who pay a fee for any programming package offered by the
Company.
transponder: A microwave repeater on a satellite that can retransmit a signal or
set of signals.
ultra-high frequency (UHF): Frequencies from 300 MHz to 3000 MHz.
uplink: The signal that travels from the earth transmitting station up to the
receiving station, such as a satellite.
very-high frequency (VHF): Frequencies from 30 MHz to 300 MHz.
wireless cable: Refers to the use of MMDS or LMDS systems for transmission of
subscription TV services.
32
<PAGE>
ITEM 2. DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY
The Company has major corporate offices in Hoofddorp, The Netherlands,
Johannesburg, South Africa and Athens, Greece. The following table summarizes
certain information regarding the Company's principal facilities as of November
1998:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Description/Use Location Size Owned orLeased
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Corporate offices Hoofddorp, the Netherlands 7,672 m2 Leased
Corporate offices Johannesburg, South Africa 20,400 m2* Leased
Corporate offices Durban, South Africa 2,672 m2 Leased
Corporate offices Cape Town, South Africa 3,219 m2 Leased
Corporate offices San Diego, USA 1,950 m2 Leased
Corporate offices Athens, Greece 8,126 m2* Leased
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
* multiple locations
ITEM 3. LEGALPROCEEDINGS
From time to time, the Company and its local partners in Greece have
experienced objections by local communities to the establishment or continued
presence of transmission sites in such communities. Such matters have generally
been resolved in the ordinary course. In addition, the Company is party to
routine litigation and proceedings in the ordinary course of business. The
Company is not aware of any current or pending litigation which it believes
would have a material adverse effect on the Company's results of operations or
financial condition.
One of NetMed's competitors, Antenna TV S.A., has filed a suit in the
Athenian Court of First Instance against the Greek basketball league and NetMed
Hellas. The competitor asserts that the basketball agreement between the Greek
basketball league and NetMed Hellas was the product of an unfair process and
constitutes a restriction on competition and an abuse of NetMed Hellas'dominant
position in the Greek pay-television market. The Company believes that NetMed
Hellas' rights under the basketball agreement will not be substantially affected
by this action and that the claim for monetary damages is without merit.
The South African Competition Board has issued its report of its
investigation into certain business practices of MultiChoice Africa under South
Africa's Maintenance and Promotion of Competition Act. See "Item 1. Description
of Business-Regulation-South Africa".
UBC has submitted an application to the Thai Trade Competition Committee
under the Thai Competition Act. See "Item 1. Description of
Business-Regulation-Thailand".
ITEM 4. CONTROL OF REGISTRANT
The table below sets forth, as of July 1, 1999, certain information with
respect to the ownership of each class of voting securities of MIH Limited by
(i) each person who is known by the Company to be the owner of more than 10% of
any class of voting securities of the Company and (ii) all directors and
executive officers as a group.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A Ordinary Shares Class B Ordinary Shares
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Percent Percent
Identity of person or group Number of class Number of class
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
MIH (BVI) Limited 0 0% 30,787,319 100%
Johnnic (IOM) Limited 4,194,459 18.9 0 0
SuperSport International Holdings Limited 3,253,222 14.7 0 0
Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc. 2,581,775 11.6 0 0
Directors and officers as a group(1) 0 0 0 0
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
(1) Excludes options to purchase Class A Ordinary Shares. See "Item 12-Options
to Purchase Securities from Registrant or Subsidiaries".
MIH Holdings Limited ("MIH Holdings") owns, through its wholly owned
subsidiary MIH (BVI) Limited, 100.0% of the Class B Ordinary Shares outstanding,
representing 80.6% of the voting interest of the Company. MIH Investments
(Proprietary) Limited ("MIH Investments") owns 53% of the voting stock of MIH
Holdings, and Naspers Limited ("Naspers") owns 100.0% of the voting stock of MIH
Investments along with direct ownership of 2.8% of MIH Holdings. As a result of
its ownership of Class B Ordinary Shares, MIH Holdings and its parent companies
have sufficient voting power, without the vote of any other shareholders, to
determine the outcome of any action requiring shareholder approval, to amend the
Memorandum and Articles for any purpose, which could include increasing or
reducing the Company's authorized capital or authorizing the issuance of
additional shares and to elect all of MIH Limited's directors who determine the
declaration and payment of dividends and any other action to be taken by the
Company.
33
<PAGE>
In addition, the Company, MIH (BVI) Limited and Johnnic (IOM) Limited
("Johnnic") are parties to a shareholders agreement pursuant to which Johnnic
holds a right to approve certain expansions in the Company's line of business
and would receive certain additional approval rights in the event it comes to
hold greater than 20% or more of the Company's then issued Ordinary Shares. The
Company does not anticipate that Johnnic will come to own 20% or more of the
Company's Ordinary Shares in the near future, or that any rights held by Johnnic
would materially affect the Company's execution of its business plan as
described in this Annual Report.
ITEM 5. NATURE OF TRADING MARKET
As of July 1, 1999, the Company had approximately 65 participants of
record of an aggregate of approximately 10,435,000 million shares of Class A
Ordinary Shares outstanding. As of July 1, 1999, and as far as it has been
practicable for the Company to ascertain, there were an estimated 267 beneficial
U.S. holders of the Class A Ordinary Shares. As of July 1, 1999, to the
Company's knowledge approximately 47.03% of the total outstanding Class A
Ordinary Shares was held by persons in the United States.
Prior to April 13, 1999, there was no public market for the Class A
Ordinary Shares. Since April 13, 1999, the Class A Ordinary Shares have been
listed and traded on the Nasdaq National Market and Amsterdam Stock Exchange
under the symbol "MIHL". The following table sets forth the range of high and
low and closing sale prices of the Class A Ordinary Shares on the Nasdaq
National Market and the Amsterdam Stock Exchange for the period from April 13,
1999 to June 30, 1999:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nasdaq Amsterdam
-----------------------------------------------------------
Period ended High Low High Low
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
June 30, 1999 $32.250 $18.250 $30.000 $18.250
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
ITEM 6. EXCHANGE CONTROLS AND OTHER LIMITATIONS AFFECTING SECURITY
HOLDERS
There are no material British Virgin Islands laws which impose foreign
exchange controls on the Company or that affect the payment of dividends,
interest, or other payments to nonresident holders of the Company's securities.
British Virgin Islands law and the Company's Memorandum and Articles of
Association impose no limitations on the right of nonresident or foreign owners
to hold or vote the Class A Ordinary Shares.
MIH Limited's South African subsidiaries are subject to significant
restrictions on their ability to remit funds outside of South Africa. South
African exchange control regulations provide for a common monetary area
consisting of South Africa, Lesotho, Namibia and Swaziland (the "CMA").
Transactions between South African residents and non-CMA residents are subject
to South African exchange control regulations. South African residents,
including companies, are generally not permitted to export capital from South
Africa or to hold foreign currency without the approval of The South African
Reserve Bank, and restrictions are imposed on their foreign investments. In
addition, South African companies are generally required to repatriate to South
Africa those profits of foreign operations which are not required to fund their
ongoing business operations. These exchange control regulations effectively
prevent the Company from receiving distributions from its South African
subsidiaries. While such restrictions have been liberalized in recent years, a
South African company's ability to raise and deploy capital outside South Africa
remains subject to significant restrictions. Although approximately two-thirds
of the Company's revenue is generated by its businesses in the CMAand their
subsidiaries and joint ventures, the Company believes that the South African
exchange control restrictions will not affect its ability to fulfill its various
payment obligations.
ITEM 7. TAXATION
Under current British Virgin Islands law, dividends, interest or royalties
paid by the Company to individuals and gains realized on the sale or disposition
of shares are not subject to tax as long as the recipient is not a resident of
the British Virgin Islands. The Company is not obligated to withhold any tax for
payments of dividends and shareholders receive gross dividends irrespective of
their residential or national status. There are no capital gains, gift or
inheritance taxes levied by the British Virgin Islands. In addition, the
Ordinary Shares are not subject to any transfer taxes, stamp duties or similar
charges.
There is no income tax treaty or convention currently in effect between the
United States and the British Virgin Islands.
34
<PAGE>
ITEM 8. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
SELECTED FINANCIAL AND OPERATING DATA
The selected financial data set forth below for the years ended March 31,
1999, 1998, 1997, 1996 and 1995 have been derived from the Consolidated
Statements for the year ended March 31, 1999 from the Combined Statements for
the years ended March 31, 1998, 1997, 1996 and 1995. The data should be read in
conjunction with, and are qualified in their entirety by, the Financial
Statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report. The Financial Statements
are prepared in accordance with international accounting standards ("IAS") and
for the years ended March 31, 1999 and March 31, 1998 and 1997 have been audited
by PricewaterhouseCoopers Inc and Coopers & Lybrand respectively. The accounting
policies adopted by the Company under IAS differ in certain significant respects
from generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("US GAAP").
Such differences are described in Note 29 to the Consolidated Statements and in
"Item 9. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results
of Operations-US GAAPReconciliation". The Combined Statements include the
combined accounts of the Acquired MIH Businesses (as defined) and eliminate all
accounts among the Acquired MIH Businesses. The Combined Statements do not
eliminate amounts due from the Acquired MIH Businesses to MIH Limited, which the
Consolidated Statements do eliminate, nor do they include purchase accounting
adjustments that occurred as a result of the Canal+ Transaction (as defined).
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Acquired MIH
Company Businesses Combined
Consolidated (Predecessor)(1)
-------------------------- ---------------------------------
Year Ended March 31
1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
---------------------------------------------------------------------
(dollars in millions, except pershare and per subscriberdata)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Statements of Operations Data:
Amounts in accordance with IAS:
Revenues:
Subscriptions $442.7 $404.5 $315.5 $233.3
Decoder sales and repair 72.0 63.1 60.2 43.6
Technology 63.9 12.8 16.2 6.0
Other 31.5 21.1
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Total revenues, net(2) 610.1 501.5 391.9 282.9 $266.9
Operating expenses:
Cost of providing services (392.1) (309.0) (259.4) (212.9)
Selling, general and administrative (210.4) (177.2) (140.4) (77.6)
Depreciation and amortization(3) (51.4) (58.0) (16.2) (9.8)
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating loss (43.8) (42.7) (24.1) (17.4)
Financial results, net(4) (9.1) (5.5) (5.3) (0.9)
Equity results in joint ventures
and associates (43.3) (7.9) 3.8 0.6
Profit on sale of joint venture 31.1 -- -- --
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Profit/(loss) before taxation (65.1) (56.1) (25.6) (17.8)
Loss from continuing operations (65.0) (59.9) (26.0) (21.5)
Net loss (68.8) (63.8) (26.0) (21.5)
Per share amounts(5):
Loss from continuing operations $(1.70) $(1.57)
Net loss (1.80) (1.67)
Dividends(6) 1.36
Weighted average shares outstanding 38,235,000 38,235,000
Amounts in accordance with US GAAP:
Loss from continuing operations $(70.2) $(75.3) $(26.0) $(21.6)
Cumulative effect of a change
in accounting principle -- -- -- (3.9)
Net Loss $(74.0) (79.3) (26.0) (25.4)
Per share amounts(5):
Loss from continuing operations (1.84) (1.97)
Net loss (1.94) (2.07)
---------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
35
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Acquired MIH
Company Businesses Combined
Consolidated (Predecessor)(1)
------------------------ -------------------
March 31
1999 1998 1997
----------------------------------------------
(dollars in millions, except pershare
and persubscriber data)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Balance Sheet Data (at period end):
Amounts in accordance with IAS:
Cash and cash equivalents $56.1 $153.4 $53.9
Total assets 776.2 646.1 287.2
Total debt(7) 284.5 107.6 76.8
Total liabilities 599.0 392.5 337.7
Amounts in accordance with US GAAP:
Total assets $746.3 $621.2 $287.2
Total debt(7) 284.5 107.6 76.8
Total liabilities 599.0 392.5 337.7
Other Data:
Operating Income/(Loss) Before Depreciation and Amortization(8) $7.6 $15.3 $(7.9)
Cash flow from operating activities (19.2) 5.2 68.5
Cash flow from investing activities (95.6) 170.5 (14.6)
Cash flow from financing activities 18.1 (77.0) (13.3)
Capital expenditures (11.4) (31.7) (17.6)
Subscribers in thousands (at period end):
Africa
South Africa 1,073 1,054 1,008
Sub-Saharan Africa 140 109 104
Egypt 30 18 13
Middle East 62 27 15
-------------------------------------------
Total Africa 1,305 1,208 1,140
-------------------------------------------
Mediterranean
Greece 316 254 203
Cyprus 35 31 26
-------------------------------------------
Total Mediterranean 351 285 230
-------------------------------------------
Asia
Thailand 300 313 253
-------------------------------------------
Total subscribers 1,956 1,806 1,623
-------------------------------------------
Average monthly revenue per subscriber(9) $24.11 $23.90 $21.10
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
36
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Company Consolidated
-------------------------------------------
Year ended March 31
1997 1996 1995
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Statements of Operations Data:
Amounts in accordance with IAS:
Net Income/(loss) $409.2 $(85.7) $(52.0)
Weighted average shares outstanding 38,235,000 38,235,000 38,235,000
Income/(loss) per share 10.68 (2.24) (1.36)
Amounts in accordance with US GAAP:
Net income $409.6
Income per share 10.69
Balance Sheet Data (at period end):
Amounts in accordance with IAS:
Total assets $803.1 $63.7 $65.4
Total debt(8) 124.0 94.5 --
Amounts in accordance with US GAAP:
Total assets $803.1
Total debt(8) 124.0
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
(1) See "Item 9. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations-Presentation of Financial Information".
(2) Prior to March 31, 1995, the revenues of the Company's predecessors were
primarily generated by its operations in Africa. The other operations did
not generate significant revenue. The business of the Company's
Africa-based predecessor was included with the operations of affiliates
prior to March 31, 1995. Therefore, only total net revenues have been
presented.
(3) The operating results of the Company for the year ended March 31, 1999
include amortization of $43.8 million attributable to intangible assets of
$207.9 million, which were recorded as a result of the acquisition of the
Acquired MIH Businesses as well as subsequent net acquisitions of $116.3
million (as defined herein). Amortization of film and sports rights is
included in the cost of providing services.
(4) Includes interest expense, interest income, dividend income, foreign
exchange gains and losses, and gains on disposal of investments.
(5) Per share amounts are not applicable to the results of the Acquired MIH
Businesses.
(6) Dividend paid in 1998 was to facilitate the capitalization of M-Web. The
Company does not expect to pay dividends in the near future.
(7) Includes bank overdrafts, current portion of long-term debt, long-term
debt (including approximately $22.1 million (inclusive of accrued
interest) which was recorded in connection with the transfer of shares of
M-Net/SSIH. In fiscal 1997, excludes debt owed to MIH Limited included in
the liabilities of the Acquired MIH Businesses, as such amounts would be
eliminated upon consolidation.
8) Operating Income/(Loss) Before Depreciation and Amortization is defined as
operating income (loss) before depreciation and amortization (other than
amortization of film and sports rights). Operating Income/(Loss) Before
Depreciation and Amortization is presented supplementally as the Company
believes it is the most appropriate measure for evaluating operating
performance. The Company believes Operating Income/(Loss) Before
Depreciation and Amortization is a standard measure commonly reported and
widely used by analysts, investors and others associated with the
pay-media industry. Operating Income/(Loss) Before Depreciation and
Amortization eliminates the uneven effect across reporting periods and
companies of (1) depreciation of tangible fixed assets and (2)
Amortization of intangible assets acquired in business combinations
accounted for by the purchase method of accounting. While many in the
financial community consider Operating Income/(Loss) Before Depreciation
and Amortization to be an important measure of comparative operating
performance, it should be considered in addition to, and not as a
substitute for, operating income, net income, cash flow and other measures
of financial performance prepared in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles which are presented in the audited financial
statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report. Additionally, the
Company's calculation of Operating Income Before Depreciation and
Amortization may be different than the calculation used by other companies
and, therefore, comparability may be affected.
9) Excludes the Company's Asia and Middle East pay-television operations
because such revenues are not consolidated with the Company's income
statements. Total subscribers from consolidated operations were 1.594,
1.466 million and 1.355 million at March 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997,
respectively.
ITEM 9. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with
the Financial Statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report.
Presentation of Financial Information
MIH Limited is a holding company that operates in the pay-media and
related technology industries through its interests in subsidiaries, joint
ventures and associates.
Prior to March 31, 1997, MIH Limited's activities consisted almost
entirely of its 50% interest in NetHold, a pay-television joint venture. NetHold
had investments in pay-television operations in Africa, Cyprus, Greece, Italy,
Belgium, the Netherlands, Scandinavia and the Middle East. NetHold also owned
Irdeto, a pay-television
37
<PAGE>
technology company. In March 1997, the Company sold its interest in NetHold to
Canal+ in exchange for a 5% equity interest in Canal+, all of NetHold's
pay-television businesses in Africa, Cyprus, Greece and the Middle East (the
"Canal+ Transaction") and 49% of Irdeto. In subsequent transactions, the Company
acquired all of the ownership interest of Irdeto. The pay-television businesses
in Africa, Cyprus, Greece and the Middle East, along with 49% of Irdeto, are
collectively referred to as the "Acquired MIH Businesses." As a result of these
factors, for the year ended March 31, 1997, MIH Limited's results consist almost
entirely of its share of the results of NetHold, which owned, in addition to the
Acquired MIH Businesses, a substantial number of other businesses. Accordingly,
the Company's historical financial information after March 31, 1997 is not
comparable to its financial information prior to that date.
The Consolidated Statements present on a consolidated basis the financial
position and results of operations of MIH Limited and its subsidiaries,
including the results of joint ventures and associates accounted for under the
equity method. The Company believes that the Acquired MIH Businesses are
effectively the predecessor of the Company prior to March 31, 1997. Accordingly
the results of operations of the Acquired MIH Businesses are presented on a
combined basis. This is because the Acquired MIH Businesses include nearly all
of the businesses currently operated by the Company, and do not include
businesses that have been discontinued or sold. Because of this, the Company
believes that a period to period comparison of the Acquired MIH Businesses will
be more meaningful to potential investors and will more accurately reflect the
Company's business trends. Therefore, the discussion in this section compares
the Consolidated Statements for the year ended March 31,1999 and March 31, 1998
and the combined results of operations for the year ended March 31, 1997.
The comparability of the Consolidated Statements for the years ended March
31, 1999 and 1998 with the Acquired MIH Businesses for the year ended March
31,1997 is affected by the intangible assets recognized upon the acquisition of
the Acquired MIH Businesses and the amortization thereof. Further, during fiscal
1998, the Company acquired 100% of Irdeto and began consolidating results, which
were equity accounted in the combined results of operations.
Both the Consolidated Statements and combined results of operations have
been prepared in accordance with IAS, which differs in certain significant
respects from US GAAP. See "--US GAAP Reconciliation" and Note 29 to the
Consolidated Statements for a description of the principal differences between
IAS and US GAAP as they relate to the Company and the Acquired MIH Businesses.
Overview of Operations
The Company is a multinational provider of pay-television services and the
technology employed in the provision of such services. As of March 31, 1999, the
Company provided television platform and related services to over 1.9 million
households, and operated its businesses in over 50 countries around the world.
The current holdings of MIH Limited consist of:
o Television platform operations in Africa, the Mediterranean and Asia;
o Pay-media technology businesses based in The Netherlands and the United
States that collectively compose the Company's Mindport division; and
o An equity interest of 19.8% of M-Net Ltd. and SSIH.
In Africa, MultiChoice Africa provides a range of subscriber management
services to pay-television households in over 40 countries on the African
continent and adjacent islands, principally in South Africa.
MultiChoice Africa also has direct investments with fully-staffed offices
for pay-television services in Lesotho, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Nigeria,
Ghana, Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. In the Mediterranean, NetMed operates analog
platforms in Greece and Cyprus. In Asia, the Company owns 31.1% (including an
option of 3.3%) (17.3% as of March 31, 1998) of UBC, the only major
pay-television provider in Thailand. In the Middle East, the Company performs
subscriber management operations for the two digital platforms in the Middle
East and, through MultiChoice Egypt, services the Egyptian subscriber base for
both digital and analog platforms.
The Company's Mindport technology division consists of Mindport and its
subsidiaries, which develop and market conditional access, subscriber management
systems and other television platform technologies. Mindport also consists of an
80.1% interest in the outstanding stock of OpenTV (44.5% as of March 31, 1998),
which develops and provides operating systems for interactive television and a
100% interest in TV/Com International Inc. which owns certain conditional access
intellectual property rights.
The Company's operating results are affected by a number of items,
including the number of households subscribing to its television platform
service, the average revenue per subscriber, churn rates, seasonality and
foreign exchange rates. Foreign exchange rates can have a significant effect on
the Company's reported earnings as the Company generates revenues predominantly
in the local currencies of the countries in which it operates, whereas a
substantial portion of the Company's expenses are incurred in U.S. dollars.
Revenues. The Company's primary source of revenue is subscriber fees. The
Company also generates
38
<PAGE>
revenue from the sale, rental and maintenance of decoders, and other income. As
a result of the subsequent acquisition of the remaining interest in Irdeto and
its interest in OpenTV, the Company began in January 1998 to consolidate the
revenue it generated from technology licenses.
Cost of Providing Services. These include programming, subscriber
management, decoder purchase, transmission and development costs. Programming
costs include the cost for third-party programs and the production cost of
programs produced by the Company, as well as the amortization of programming
rights for sporting events and movies. Subscriber management costs include the
direct costs of service and maintenance of equipment installed at
subscribers'homes and the cost of customer service. Decoder costs include the
purchase of decoders by the Company for use, lease or resale. Transmission costs
consist of transmission and uplinking and backhauling charges paid by the
Company to various satellite vendors under operating lease agreements.
Development costs include the costs of research necessary to enhance the
Company's existing technology products and develop new technologies.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses. These costs include overhead
costs from the various departments such as marketing, public relations,
subscriber sales, warehousing, information systems, finance and accounting,
accounts receivable and the human resources department.
Depreciation and Amortization. These costs include charges relating to the
amortization of intangible assets arising from acquisitions and the depreciation
of the Company's tangible fixed assets, including transponders, decoders and
assets under capital lease.
Results of Operations
The Company's results of operations are summarized in the following
tables:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated Combined
---------------------------------------
Year ended March 31
1999 1998 1997
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(in millions)
---------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Subscription revenues 442.7 $404.5 $315.5
Decoder sales and repairs 72.0 63.1 60.2
Technology 63.9 12.8 --
Other 31.5 21.1 16.2
---------------------------------------
Net revenues 610.1 501.5 391.9
---------------------------------------
Cost of providing services (392.1) (309.0) (259.4)
Selling, general and administrative expenses (210.4) (177.2) (140.4)
Depreciation and amortization (51.4) (58.0) (16.2)
---------------------------------------
Total operating expenses (653.9) (544.2) (416.0)
---------------------------------------
Operating loss (43.8) (42.7) (24.1)
Financial results, net (9.1) (5.5) (5.3)
Equity results in joint ventures (41.2) (5.1) 1.3
Equity results in associates (2.1) (2.8) 2.6
Profit on sale of joint venture 31.1 -- --
---------------------------------------
Loss before taxation (65.1) (56.1) (25.6)
Income taxation (0.3) (7.6) (1.2)
---------------------------------------
Loss after taxation (65.4) (63.7) (26.8)
Minority interest 0.4 3.8 0.8
---------------------------------------
Loss from continuing operations (65.0) (59.9) (26.0)
Loss from discontinued operations (3.8) (3.9) --
---------------------------------------
Net loss (68.8) (63.8) (26.0)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
39
<PAGE>
Year ended March 31, 1999 (Consolidated Statements) compared to the year ended
March 31, 1998 (Consolidated Statements)
Revenues
Subscription revenues increased $38.2 million, or 9.4%, to $442.7 million
during the year ended March 31, 1999 from $404.5 million in the same period in
1998, mainly as a result of an increase in the number of subscribers in MIH
Limited's consolidated subsidiaries, as reflected in the table below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Number of subscribers (1)
1999 1998
(thousands) (thousands)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Digital 372 212
Analog 1 222 1 254
------- -------
Total 1 594 1 466
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
(1) Excludes non-consolidated joint ventures and associates.
Total subscribers increased by 128,062, or 8.7%, from 1,465,783 at March
31, 1998 to 1,593,845 at March 31, 1999. In Africa, the number of digital
subscribers increased by 159,850 and the number of analog subscribers decreased
by 253,031. The reduction in African analog subscribers resulted primarily from
the Company's campaign to convert analog customers to digital service, a trend
that the Company expects to continue. The Company estimates that in South Africa
60% of analog subscribers that discontinue service do so as a result of
conversion to digital service. The Company's subscribers in Greece and Cyprus,
where the Company currently provides only analog service, increased by 23.0%,
from 285,055 to 350,498. This resulted in a net decrease of 31,788 in overall
analog subscribers.
Average revenue per subscriber per month increased by $0.21, or 0.9%, to
$24.11 for the year ended March 31, 1999 from $23.9 for the year ended March 31,
1998. The increase was attributable to the shift in subscribers in Africa from
analog service to the higher-priced digital service, increases in monthly
subscriber fees in local currencies (primarily rand and drachma) by
approximately 8.8% and 8.9% for the analog and digital service, respectively,
offset by the effects of a devaluation of the rand (23.4%) and the drachma
(3.0%) against the U.S. dollar respectively.
Decoder sales and repairs ncreased $8.9 million, or 14.1%, to $72.0
million during the year ended March 31, 1999 from $63.1 million in the same
period in 1998. During the fiscal year ended March 31, 1999 the retail price of
decoders decreased consistently with the reduction in manufacturing cost of
decoders. The Company passed on the savings in the price it pays for decoders to
its customers. The Company also subsidized the selling prices of digital
decoders in Africa and analog decoders in Greece and Cyprus to increase its
subscriber base. The revenue per decoder has therefore decreased, resulting in a
slower rate of growth in decoder revenues relative to the growth in the number
of subscribers. This trend is partly offset by a shift of subscribers from
analog to digital decoders, which are more expensive.
Technology revenues increased $51.1 million, or 399.2%, to $63.9 million
during the year ended March 31, 1999 from $12.8 million in the same period in
1998. This increase relates directly to the consolidation of Irdeto for twelve
months compared with three months of the previous year. Irdeto was acquired
during January 1998 and therefore only consolidated for three months.
Other revenues increased $10.4 million, or 49.3%, to $31.5 million during
the year ended March 31, 1999 from $21.1 million in the same period in 1998.
This increase was mainly attributable to an increase in advertising revenues and
the sale of sports, program and advertising rights in Greece.
Operating expenses
Costs of providing services increased by $83.1 million, or 26.9%, to
$392.1 million during the year ended March 31, 1999 from $309.0 million in the
same period in 1998. This increase is primarily attributable to: (i) the
inclusion of costs associated with Irdeto for twelve months compared with three
months in the prior year; (ii) increased charges for additional satellite
capacity; (iii) increase in the amortization of sports and programming rights;
(iv) net increased programming costs associated with the increased number of
digital subscribers; (v) increase in the cost of decoders, sports, program and
advertising rights sold. The Company expects the amortization of sports
programming to increase in the future as a result of the amortization of Greek
basketball programming rights acquired.
Selling, general and administrative ("SG&A") costs increased by $33.2
million, or 18.7%, to $210.4 million during the year ended March 31, 1999 from
$177.2 million in the same period in 1998, primarily as a result of (i)
consolidation of the SG&A of Irdeto for twelve months compared to three months
of the prior period; (ii) an increase in staff and communication costs primarily
due to the expansion of call centers required to match the
40
<PAGE>
increased number and length of calls arising from the growth in the digital
subscriber base; (iii) an expanded advertising campaign; (iv) year 2000 costs;
and (v) additional costs associated with the group corporate functions.
Depreciation and amortization decreased $6.6 million, or 11.4%, to $51.4 million
during the year ended March 31, 1999 from $58.0 million in the same period in
1998. The charge decreased by $7.5 million as a result of the devaluation of the
local currencies against the dollar and the transfer of assets from the Company
to Orbicom. These assets were subsequently transferred back to the Company. This
decrease was partly offset by an increase in the depreciation charge arising
from the net increase in fixed assets. As a result of new transponder capacity
leases classified as capital leases, the Company anticipates an increase in the
related depreciation charge in future periods.
Operating loss
Operating loss increased by $1.1 million, or 2.6%, to $43.8 million during
the year ended March 31, 1999 from $42.7 million for the same period in 1998 as
a result of the combined effect of the foregoing factors.
Financial results, net
The net financial loss increased by $3.6 million, or 65.5%, to $9.1
million during the year ended March 31, 1999 from $5.5 million in the
corresponding period of 1998.The increase is attributable to a non recurring
gain on disposal of investments of $2.6 million (representing the sale of the
Company's interest in Canal+) which was recorded in 1998, a reduction in
dividend income of $0.6 to $2.6 from $3.2, an increase in interest expense of
$8.2 to $21.4 million from $13.2 million which was partly offset by an increase
in interest income of $2.4 million to $10.3 million from $7.9 million and a
decrease in exchange losses of $5.4 million to $0.6 million from $6.0 million.
The changes as compared to the previous year are primarily as a result of the
consolidation of the results of Irdeto for twelve months compared to the three
months of the previous year.
Equity result in joint ventures
The Company's equity result in joint ventures changed by $36.1 million to
a loss of $41.2 million during the year ended March 31, 1999 from an equity loss
of $5.1 million in the corresponding period of 1998. The losses mainly included
the net losses of $32.7 million for UBC for nine months and OpenTV of $6.6
million for twelve months. These results are inclusive of $9.1 million and $2.2
million amortization of goodwill for UBC and OpenTV, respectively.
Equity result in associated companies
Equity result in associates changed by $0.7 million, or 25.0%, to $2.1
million loss during the year ended March 31, 1999 from $2.8 million in the
corresponding period of 1998. Equity result in associates for the year ended
March 31, 1999 is net of a goodwill allocation of $4.4 million in fiscal 1999,
attributable to the Company's 19.9% interest in M-Net and SSIH. The Company
accounts for its investment in M-Net and SSIH using the equity method of
accounting because of the significant influence the Company exercises over M-Net
as a result of common ownership, the Company's management and directors'
representation on the Board of Directors of M-Net and SSIH and the fact that
substantially all of M-Net and SSIH's revenues are derived from the Company.
Profit on sale of joint venture
The profit on sale of joint venture resulted from the release of
provisions relating to the sale of the NetHold joint venture to Canal+. At March
31, 1997 the Company deferred recognition of approximately $73.3 million of this
gain, relating to liability for warranties of decoder technology, guarantees of
the number of subscribers and the potential reimbursement of programming costs.
During the year ended March 31, 1999, $31.1 million of these provisions were
reversed, as they were no longer required following the expiry of the warranties
and guarantees on June 30, 1998.
Taxation expense
Taxation expense decreased to $0.3 million during the year ended March 31,
1999 from $7.6 million in the corresponding period of 1998. No significant
amount of taxes is payable by the Company, due to losses incurred in the various
companies to date. The charge for the current year was reduced by a reversal of
deferred taxes of $3.2 million.
Minority interest
Minority interest decreased by $3.4 million, to $0.4 million during the
year ended March 31, 1999 from $3.8 million in the corresponding period of 1998.
The minority interest primarily relates to Africa for the losses incurred in
these operations. The provision for minority interest was limited to the capital
infusion from the minority parties. Through March 31, 1999, the Company has
recorded losses of $6,2 million attributable to minority interests.
41
<PAGE>
Loss from discontinued operations
Loss from discontinued operations decreased by $0.1 million, or 2.6%, to
$3.8 million during the year ended March 31, 1999 from $3.9 million loss in the
corresponding period of 1998. The 1999 loss from discontinued operations arose
from the termination of the TV/COM International Inc. operations. With effect
from October 1, 1997 the group sold its internet-related businesses.
Net loss
As a result of the foregoing factors the Company realized a net loss of
$68.8 million during the year ended March 31, 1999 compared to a net loss of
$63.8 million for the comparable period in 1998.
Year ended March 31, 1998 (Consolidated Statements) compared to the year ended
March 31, 1997 (Combined results of operations)
Revenues
Subscription revenues increased $89.0 million, or 28.2%, to $404.5 million
during the year ended March 31, 1998 from $315.5 million in the same period in
1997, mainly as a result of an increase in the number of subscribers in MIH
Limited's consolidated subsidiaries, as reflected in the table below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Number of subscribers (1)
1998 1997
(thousands) (thousands)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Digital 212 105
Analog 1 254 1 250
------- -------
Total 1 466 1 355
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
(1) Excludes non-consolidated joint ventures and associates.
Total subscribers increased by 111,070, or 8.2%, from 1,354,713 at March
31, 1997 to 1,465,783 at March 31, 1998. In Africa, the number of digital
subscribers increased by 107,136 and the number of analog subscribers decreased
by 51,527. The reduction in African analog subscribers resulted primarily from
the Company's campaign to convert analog customers to digital service, a trend
that the Company expects to continue. The Company estimates that in South Africa
60% of analog subscribers that discontinue service do so as a result of
conversion to digital service. The Company's subscribers in Greece and Cyprus,
where the Company currently provides only analog service, increased by 24.2%,
from 229,594 to 285,055. This resulted in a net increase of 3,934 in overall
analog subscribers.
Average revenue per subscriber per month increased by $2.80, or 13.3%, to
$23.90 for the year ended March 31, 1998 from $21.10 for the year ended March
31, 1997. The increase was attributable to the shift in subscribers in Africa
from analog service to the higher-priced digital service, increases in monthly
subscriber fees in local currencies (primarily rand and drachma) by
approximately 18% and 11% for the analog and digital service, respectively,
offset by the effects of devaluation of local currencies against the U.S.
dollar.
Decoder sales and repairs increased $2.9 million, or 4.8%, to $63.1
million during the year ended March 31, 1998 from $60.2 million in the same
period in 1997. During the fiscal year ended March 31, 1998 the retail price of
decoders decreased consistent with the reduction in manufacturing cost of
decoders. The Company passed on the savings in the price it pays for decoders to
its customers. The revenue per decoder has therefore decreased, resulting in a
slower rate of growth in decoder revenues relative to the growth in the number
of subscribers. This trend is partly offset by a shift of subscribers from
analog to digital decoders, which are more expensive.
Technology and other revenue increased $17.7 million, or 108.8%, to $33.9
million during the year ended March 31, 1998 from $16.2 million in the same
period in 1997. Of this increase, $11.5 million related to the consolidation of
Irdeto for the three months beginning in January 1998. Prior to that time,
Irdeto was accounted for under the equity method.
Operating expenses
Costs of providing services increased by $49.6 million, or 19.1%, to
$309.0 million during the year ended March 31, 1998 from $259.4 million in the
same period in 1997. The increase in the cost of providing services is primarily
attributable to: (i) the inclusion of costs associated with Irdeto effective
January 1998, (ii) the amortization of sports rights which were acquired by
NetMed for the first time in fiscal 1998, (iii) increased charges for additional
satellite capacity and (iv) net increased programming costs associated with the
increased number of digital subscribers.
Selling, general and administrative costs increased by $36.8 million, or
26.2%, to $177.2 million during the year ended March 31, 1998 from $140.4
million in the same period in 1997, primarily as a result of (i) consolidation
42
<PAGE>
of the SG&A of Irdeto beginning in January 1998, which was $5.8 million, (ii) an
increase in staff and communication costs primarily due to the expansion of call
centers required to match the increased number and length of calls arising from
the growth in the digital subscriber base, (iii) an expanded advertising
campaign and (iv) costs associated with the establishment of group corporate
functions.
Depreciation and amortization increased $41.8 million, or 258.3%, to $58.0
million during the year ended March 31, 1998 from $16.2 million in the same
period in 1997. Depreciation and amortization for the fiscal year ended March
31, 1998 included amortization of $33.3 million relating to intangible assets
recorded on March 31, 1997 in connection with the Canal+ Transaction. The
remaining increase in depreciation and amortization was attributable to the
increase in depreciation of various tangible assets and capital leases for
transponders.
Operating loss
Operating loss increased by $18.6 million, or 77.1%, to $42.7 million
during the year ended March 31, 1998 from $24.1 million for the same period in
1997 as a result of the combined effect of the foregoing factors.
Financial results, net
Financial results decreased by $0.2 million, or 4.2%, to a net financial
loss of $5.5 million during the year ended March 31, 1998 from a net financial
loss of $5.3 million in the corresponding period of 1997. Dividend income of
$3.2 million and gain on disposal of investments of $2.6 million (representing
the sale of the Company's interest in Canal+) were recorded in 1998, with no
corresponding amounts recorded in 1997. Interest income increased $3.9 million,
or 97.2%, to $7.9 million from $4.0 million in the corresponding period of 1997,
primarily as a result of increased cash balances produced from the disposal of
Canal+ shares. Interest expense increased $5.4 million, or 69.2%, to $13.2
million from $7.8 million in the corresponding period of 1997. The main reason
for the change is the capitalization of the satellite leases and the
corresponding interest charge. Exchange losses increased by $4.6 million, or
305.4%, to $6.0 million from $1.5 million in the corresponding period of 1997.
Equity result in joint ventures
The Company's equity result in joint ventures was a loss of $5.1 million
(including OpenTV ($2.3 million)) and, for the nine months ended December 31,
1997, Irdeto ($2.2 million)) net of a goodwill allocation of $0.8 million during
the year ended March 31, 1998. In fiscal 1997, the Acquired MIH Businesses had
net income from joint ventures of $1.3 million. Since January 1998, Irdeto and
its subsidiaries have been consolidated in MIH Limited's results of operations
and not included in equity result in joint ventures.
Equity result in associated companies
Equity result in associates decreased by $5.4 million, or 205.3%, to $2.8
million loss during the year ended March 31, 1998 from $2.6 million gain in the
corresponding period of 1997. Equity result in associates for the year ended
March 31, 1998 is net of a goodwill allocation of $3.8 million in fiscal 1998,
attributable to the Company's 19.9% interest in M-Net Ltd. and SSIH. The Company
accounts for its investment in M-Net using the equity method of accounting
because of the significant influence the Company exercises over M-Net as a
result of common ownership, the Company's management and directors'
representation on the Board of Directors of M-Net and the fact that
substantially all of M-Net's revenues are derived from the Company.
Taxation expense
Taxation expense increased to $7.6 million during the year ended March 31,
1998 from $1.2 million in the corresponding period of 1997. The taxation charge
reflects mainly the charge for foreign taxes payable. No significant amount of
taxes is payable by the Company, due to losses incurred in the various companies
to date. Taxes provided mainly relate to minimum statutory requirements and
changes resulting from new tax legislation introduced during fiscal 1998. The
deferred taxes are as a result of timing differences between the values for
financial reporting and fiscal purposes under the liability method.
Minority interest
Minority interest increased by $3.1 million, or 414.0%, to $3.8 million
during the year ended March 31, 1998 from $0.7 million in the corresponding
period of 1997. The minority interest primarily relates to NetMed Hellas and
MultiChoice Hellas for the losses incurred in these operations. The provision
for minority interest was limited to the capital infusion from the minority
parties. The Company has recorded cumulative losses attributable to minority
interest shareholders of $8.4 million through March 31, 1998.
Net loss
As a result of the foregoing factors the Company realized a net loss of
$63.8 million during the year ended March 31, 1998 compared to a net loss of
$26.0 million for the comparable period in 1997.
43
<PAGE>
Liquidity and Capital Resources
The Company's business and growth strategy has required and will continue
to require substantial capital for acquisitions, expansion of services, the
financing of operating losses and working capital. For example, the Company is
incurring operating expenses in connection with the launch of digital service in
Greece and Cyprus, and the revenue from such service is not expected to fully
offset those expenses in the near future.
During the years ended before March 31, 1997, the Company had no
significant cash flows as its activities consisted almost entirely of its
investment in NetHold. During the period from April 1997 through October 1997,
the Company sold its shares in Canal+, which it had obtained in connection with
the Canal+ Transaction, for net proceeds of $261.5 million and invested a
portion of the proceeds in pay-television and technology businesses.
The Acquired MIH Businesses have historically obtained cash flow from
operations, capital infusions by equity holders, proceeds from the sale of
investments and seller financings.
In April 1999, the Company completed an initial public offering of
10,435,000 Class A Ordinary shares, including exercize of an over allotment
option, for net proceeds of approximately $171,575,670.The proceeds of the
offering were partially used to repay $56 million of debt.
The Company expects to meet its capital needs for the foreseeable future
with the proceeds of its initial public offering, cash on hand, existing loan
facilities and equity offerings by its subsidiaries.
During the fiscal year ended March 31, 1998, the Company acquired an
additional 51% in Irdeto for $11 million, such price having been predetermined
as part of a call option granted at the time of the Canal+ Transaction, and
invested $17.7 million in UBC. The Company also made an initial investment in
OpenTV of $9.1 million. During the year ended March 31, 1999 the Company
increased its ownership in UBC to 27.8% by acquiring additional shares for $66.6
million. In August 1999, the Company intends to exercise an option to purchase
an additional 3.3% of UBC for $8.9 million in cash. During November 1998 the
Company acquired a 100% interest in TV/Com International Inc. for $14.5 million
paid in cash. In March 1999, the Company purchased all of Thomson Consumer
Electronics Inc. ("Thompson") interest in OpenTV in exchange for a convertible
note of approximately $46.2 million. The note converted simultaneously with the
consummation of the Company's initial public offering into Class A Ordinary
Shares at the price such shares were sold to the public. The Company sold to a
subsidiary of Sun Microsystems a portion of the OpenTV interest purchased from
Thomson for approximately $9.2 million in cash. After giving effect to such
sale, the Company owns 80.1% of the outstanding common stock of OpenTV.
The Company intends to make investments in and acquisitions of businesses
operating in the pay television, Internet services, interactive television
services and pay-media technology industries. The Company's general approach has
been to make investments that are expected to be sufficient to meet cash needs
until the operation can, within a predictable period of time, become
self-funding. MIH Limited's South African subsidiaries are subject to
significant restrictions on the ability to remit funds outside of South Africa.
While such restrictions have been liberalized in recent years, a South African
company's ability to raise and deploy capital outside of South Africa remains
subject to significant restrictions. See "Item 6. Exchange Controls and Other
Limitations Affecting Security Holders". The Company anticipates funding future
acquisitions and investments through the proceeds raised from the Company's
initial public offering and available cash facilities.
During the fiscal year ended March 31, 1998, MIH Limited paid a special
dividend of $51.8 million. MIH Holdings used its pro rata portion of the
dividend to capitalize M-Web. Following this capitalization, M-Web purchased the
Company's South African Internet businesses for $20.5 million. No dividends were
declared in 1997.
On April 4, 1998 the Company transferred 28 million of its shares in
M-Net/SSIH to a trust for a total consideration of $22.2 million in cash as
described in Note 3 to the Consolidated Statements. Consideration of $20.0
million was financed with bank borrowings by the purchaser and under certain
circumstances on April 14, 2001, the Company could be required to assume the
obligations and reacquire the ownership of the shares.
Accordingly the transaction has been accounted for as a financing
transaction. The borrowings bear interest at 12.55% and mature on April 14,
2001. The Company retains rights to the dividends on the M-Net/SSIH shares.
At March 31, 1999 and March 31, 1998, the Company had cash balances of
$56.1 million and $153.4 million, respectively, available unused overdraft
borrowing facilities of $56.0 million and $43.7 million, respectively, and $17.5
million guarantee line facilities with various financial institutions.
Commitments and capital expenditures
The Company has lease commitments of $47.9 million, $47.2 million, and
$39.8 million in each of the years ended March 31, 2000, 2001 and 2002,
respectively, for land and buildings, machinery, furniture and equipment and
transponders and transmitters. The Company does not expect to make significant
additional capital expenditures.
44
<PAGE>
Program and Film Rights
Program and film rights increased from $38.3 million at March 31, 1998 to
$91.3 million at March 31, 1999 primarily as a result of the soccer and
basketball contracts in Greece. Program and film rights are non-interest-bearing
liabilities and, at March 31, 1999, amounts due in future fiscal years were
$37.9 million in 2000, $28.3 million in 2001 and $15.5 million thereafter.
Debt
At March 31, 1999, long-term debt of $220.3 million consisted primarily of
capital lease obligations ($197.6 million) and loans ($22.7 million). Capital
lease obligations increased by $130.4 million during the year ended March 31,
1999 primarily as a result of additional transponder leases obtained for
coverage in the African and Mediterranean regions. The capital leases bear
interest at rates ranging from 6.0% to 21%. A $20 million liability was recorded
as a result of the transfer of 28 million M-Net/SSIH shares as described above.
Long-term debt at March 31, 1998 of $91.2 million consisted primarily of capital
lease obligations ($67.2 million) and loans ($24.0 million). Capital lease
obligations increased by $18.3 million during the year ended March 31, 1998,
primarily as a result of additional transponder leases obtained for coverage in
the Mediterranean region. The loans which consist mainly of a Netherlands
guilder-denominated loan, the equivalent of $24.0 million and bearing interest
at 2.0% above the Amsterdam Interbank Offering Rate, were repaid on October 5,
1998.
In connection with the Canal+ Transaction, the Company deferred
recognition of approximately $73.3 million of the associated gain representing
an estimated probable liability for warranties relating to decoder technology,
guarantees of numbers of subscribers and reimbursement of programming costs
which were expected to be incurred by Canal+. The gain deferral relating to the
guaranteed number of subscribers was calculated based on an estimate of the
shortfall in the number of subscribers at the date of the transaction. The
Company was aware that a defect in the technology included in certain set top
boxes would prevent the boxes from providing certain services and were likely to
cause the Company to have to replace them. The provision was calculated as the
amount of the replacement cost of decoder boxes to be replaced under the
warranty. The Company also believed that the costs to Canal+ of renegotiated
programming contracts were likely to exceed costs of contracts in force at the
sale date. The amount provided was the Company's best estimate of this exposure,
based on its experience with renegotiating similar contracts. During the year
ended March 31, 1998, the Company paid approximately $38.0 million for
guarantees of number of subscribers. At March 31, 1998 approximately $31.8
million of such provisions remained and were included in current liabilities.
The Company continued to believe that payment of the amount provided was
probable as the circumstances concerning the warranties had not changed and
discussions with Canal+ indicated a substantial likelihood that it would pursue
all claims available. No further claims were made prior to their expiry on June
30, 1998 and the remaining provision was reversed.
In October 1998, the Company established a $40 million revolving demand
facility with ABSABank Limited that bears interest at a rate of LIBOR + 2%. The
Company has drawn approximately $23 million under this facility at March 31,
1999. The facility was repaid after year-end out of the proceeds of our initial
public offering and the only remaining obligation in terms of this facility is a
guarantee of $7.0 million. In February 1999, the Company established a $50
million loan facility from MeesPierson N.V. The loan bears interest at a rate of
LIBOR + 0.9% and was repayable upon the earlier of February 12, 2000 or the
completion of the offering. The Company had drawn approximately $10 million
under this loan which was subsequently repaid out of the proceeds of our initial
public offering. The ABSA facility was secured by a pledge of the shares of UBC,
owned by the Company, and the MeesPierson loan was secured by a pledge of the
shares of substantially all the subsidiaries of the Company.
US GAAP Reconciliation
As more fully explained in Note 29 to the Consolidated Statements, under
IAS the Company's investment in UBC is carried at cost. In June 1998, the
Company increased its investment in UBC from 17.3% to 26.1%. Under IAS and US
GAAP the investment is accounted for by using the equity method subsequent to
the increase of the Company's shareholding. US GAAPrequires retroactive
adjustment of financial statements for an investee that was previously accounted
for on the cost method when that investee becomes qualified for use of the
equity method.
The effect of the difference between IAS and US GAAP resulted in an
increase in the Company's net loss under US GAAP as compared with IAS for the
years ended March 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997 and a reduction of shareholders'
equity as compared with IAS as at March 31, 1999, March 31, 1999 and 1998.
On April 1, 1999, the Company granted options to purchase 950,140 Class A
Ordinary Shares at an exercise price of $10.57 per share. The exercise price
represents the estimated fair value of the shares on September 11, 1998 (after
giving effect to stock splits), when the Compensation Committee of the Board of
Directors determined it would make the awards. US GAAP, Accounting Principles
Board Option No. 25, requires that the intrinsic value of the options, defined
as the market value of the share at grant date less the exercise price, be
recognized as compensation expense prospectively over the five-year vesting
period. As a result, the Company expects to recognize compensation expense under
U.S. GAAP beginning with the fiscal year ending March 31, 2000.
45
<PAGE>
Year 2000 Issue
The Company is reviewing its computer systems and operations in order to
identify and determine the extent to which any systems may be vulnerable to
potential errors and failures as a result of the "Year 2000" problem. The Year
2000 problem is the result of computer programs being written using two digits,
rather than four digits, to define the applicable year. Any computer application
having time-sensitive software may recognize a date using "00" as the year 1900
rather than the year 2000, which could result in a major system failure or
miscalculations.
The effects of the Year 2000 problem are exacerbated because of the
interdependence of computer and telecommunications systems throughout the world.
This interdependence is true for the Company, its suppliers and certain of its
customers.
MIH Year 2000 Project
The management of the Company has been briefed about the Year 2000 problem
and its possible effects on the Company's business activities. The Company has
implemented a Year 2000 project, which will be modified as events warrant, to
minimise the impact of the Year 2000 problem on the Company.
The Year 2000 project is managed by the Company'sYear 2000 project office
which provides leadership and direction to the Year 2000 efforts of the
Company's operations in Africa, the Middle East, the Mediterranean and Thailand
as well as Mindport, excluding OpenTV. Each of the operations is ultimately
responsible for its own Year 2000 activities, but the Year 2000 project office
has set out a uniform phased approach which includes the activities set out
below.
Inventory. The first phase is the compilation of an inventory of all of
the Company's computer hardware and software systems and embedded chips and
software (including the compilation of an inventory of all of Mindport's
products). The Company has completed this phase.
Impact Assessment. The second phase is an assessment of the effects of
Year 2000 problems on the Company's systems and products. This phase includes
the identification of business critical systems and products. The Company has
completed this phase.
Supplier Compliance. All suppliers and vendors of business critical
products and services have been or will be approached to ascertain whether such
suppliers and vendors have determined whether or not their products and services
are Year 2000 compliant and, if not, what efforts they are making in this
regard. The Company will continue working on this phase through the rest of
1999.
Testing, Corrections and Upgrades. The fourth phase involves the testing
of all business critical products and business critical systems to determine the
correct remedial action which is required to address any Year 2000 problems
which are diagnosed. This phase further includes the verification and testing of
those systems to which remediation efforts have been applied (whether by way of
corrections or upgrade). The African operations and Mindport have completed
diagnostic testing and expect to complete the implementation of corrections and
upgrades by July 31, 1999 and September 30, 1999 respectively. The Mediterranean
operations have completed diagnostic testing and the implementation of
corrections and upgrades. The Thai and Middle Eastern operations have completed
diagnostic testing and expect to have completed the implementation of
corrections and upgrades by June 1999.
A variety of testing procedures are being used to test business
applications for Year 2000 compliance by the Company's operations. These include
methods that first capture current processing steps and relevant data, which are
run prior to remediation (baseline test) and again after remediation (regression
test). Such methods are intended to identify any business rules that may have
changed during the remediation effort and to confirm that only date processors
have been changed. Where the regression tests are successfully completed, test
software tools that perform date simulation of the system clock being rolled
forward may be used to age the same data and to verify and compare results.
Contingency Planning. The final phase involves the preparation of
contingency plans to attempt to ameliorate those aspects of the Year 2000
problem that cannot practically be remedied. These plans will encompass business
continuity, both internally and in the external business environment. The
planning effort includes critical areas such as computing networks, suppliers
and vendors, operations, personnel and business systems. The Company has
commenced this phase.
Outside Systems and Entities
The Company recognizes that the computer, telecommunications and other
systems of outside entities play a major role in the Company's operations. The
Company does not have control of these outside entities or outside systems. The
Company has, however, implemented an ongoing process of contacting outside
entities whose systems have, or may have, a substantial effect on the Company's
ability to continue to conduct business without disruption from Year 2000
problems. The Company is attempting to assess the extent to which these outside
systems may not be Year 2000 compliant. The Company will attempt to coordinate
with these outside entities in an ongoing effort to obtain assurance that these
outside systems will be Year 2000 compliant before January 1, 2000.
46
<PAGE>
OpenTV
OpenTV has implemented its own Year 2000 activities. OpenTV has undertaken
to notify customers of any and all date-related bugs, errors or deficiencies in
its software. OpenTV believes that it has adequately anticipated Year 2000
issues.
Year 2000 Costs
The total remaining cost of the Year 2000 project is estimated at $5.0
million. Approximately $2.2 million is for new software and hardware purchases
and will be capitalized. The remaining $2.8 million will be expensed as incurred
over the remainder of the calendar year. To date, the Company has incurred and
expensed approximately $1.4 million, related to the phases of the project which
have been implemented. The costs of the project and the dates on which the
Company plans to complete the project are based on management's best estimates,
which were derived utilizing numerous assumptions of future events, including
the continued availability of certain resources, the readiness of outside
systems and other factors. Until the Company has completed further analysis of
the impact of Year 2000 on its operations and contingency planning, it will be
unable to estimate the additional costs, if any, that it may incur as a result
of its efforts. For these reasons, and for the reasons stated in the next
paragraph, there can be no assurance that the actual costs of implementing the
project will not differ materially from the estimated costs.
Potential Risks
With respect to its internal operations (those over which the Company has
direct control), the Company believes that the most significant potential risks
concern the Company's ability to use electronic devices to distribute its
services, the Company's ability to render timely bills to its subscribers, the
ability of the Company's subscribers to receive its services, the uninterrupted
use of the Company's products by its customers and the Company's ability to
maintain continuous operation of its computer systems. The project addresses
each of these risks. The Company relies, however, on outside systems, and there
can be no assurance, for example, that all outside systems will be adequately
remediated so that they are Year 2000 compliant by December 31, 1999, or by some
earlier date, so as not to create a material disruption to the Company's
business. In addition, there can be no assurance that the Company's products and
systems will be Year 2000 compliant. If, despite the Company's efforts in terms
of the project, there are Year 2000 related failures that create substantial
material disruptions to the Company's operations, the adverse impact on the
Company's business could be material. Moreover, the estimated costs of
implementing the project do not take into account the costs, if any, that may be
incurred as a result of Year 2000 related failures that occur despite the
Company's implementation of the project including, for example, claims from
subscribers or customers related to business interruption. See "Item 1.
Description of Business-Risk Factors-Year 2000 Risks".
Accounting Standards
In July 1997, the International Accounting Standards Committee ("IASC")
issued International Accounting Standard ("IAS") 1 (revised), "Disclosure of
Accounting Policies". IAS 1 (revised) will be effective for the Company's
financial statements for the year ending March 31, 2000. The Company believes
that it has complied with the main provisions of this standard and does not
believe that this standard will have a significant influence on the Company's
financial statements.
In 1997, the IASC issued IAS 17 (revised 1997), Leases, which supersedes
IAS 17, "Accounting for Leases" and is effective for the Company's financial
statements for the year ending March 31, 2000. The Company does not expect a
material impact on its financial statements as a result of adopting IAS 17
(revised 1997).
In January 1998, the IASC issued IAS 19 (revised 1998), "Employee
Benefits". It will be effective for the Company's financial statements for the
year ending March 31, 2000. The Company is currently assessing the impact that
this standard may have on the Company's financial statements.
In February of 1998, the IASC issued IAS 34, "Interim Financial
Reporting". IAS 34 will be effective for the Company's interim financial
statements issued after March 31, 1999. The Company believes that it has
complied with the main provisions of this standard and does not believe that
this standard will have a significant influence on the Company's financial
statements.
In June of 1998, the IASC issued IAS 35, "Discontinuing Operations". IAS
35 will be effective for the Company's financial statements for the year ending
March 31, 2000. The Company believes that it has complied with the provisions of
this standard and does not believe that this standard will have a significant
influence on the Company's financial statements.
In June of 1998, the IASC issued IAS 36, "Impairment of Assets". IAS 36
will be effective for the Company's financial statements for the year ending
March 31, 2001. The Company is currently assessing the impact that this standard
may have on its financial statements.
47
<PAGE>
In September of 1998, the IASC issued IAS 37, "Provisions, Contingent
Liabilities and Contingent Assets". IAS 37 will be effective for the Company's
financial statements for the year ending March 31, 2001. The Company believes
that it has complied with the provisions of this standard and does not believe
that this standard will have a significant influence on the Company's financial
statements.
In October of 1998, the IASC published IAS 22 (revised 1998), "Business
Combinations", that includes limited revisions to the version of IAS 22 approved
in 1993. IAS 22 (revised 1998) is effective for the Company's financial
statements for the year ending March 31, 2001. The provisions of IAS 22
(revised) would apply prospectively.
In October of 1998, the IASC published IAS 38 "Intangible Assets". The
standard becomes effective for the Company's financial statements for the year
ending March 31, 2001, with earlier application encouraged. If an enterprise
chooses to adopt IAS 38 early, it must also apply IAS 22 (revised 1998),
"Business Combinations" and IAS 36, "Impairment of Assets" early. The Company is
assessing the impact this standard may have on its financial statements.
In March of 1999, the IASC published IAS 39 "Financial
Instruments-Recognition and Measurement". The standard becomes effective for the
Company's financial statements for the year ending March 31, 2002. IAS 39
establishes standards for recognizing, measuring, and disclosing information
about an enterprises financial assets and financial liabilities, including
accounting for hedging transactions. The Company is assessing the impact this
standard may have on its financial statements.
ITEM 9A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
We are exposed to market risks, including interest rate and foreign
currency exchange rate risk associated with underlying assets, liabilities and
anticipated transactions. Following evaluation of these exposures, we
selectively enter into derivative financial instruments to manage the related
risk exposures pursuant to our policies in areas such as counterparty exposure
and hedging practices. These policies have been approved by our senior
management and we do not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for
trading or speculative purposes.
The following discussion and, which constitute "forward-looking
statements" that involve risk and uncertainties, summarise our market-sensitive
financial instruments including their fair value, maturity and contract terms.
The discussion addresses market risk only and does not address other risks which
we face in the normal course of business, including country risk, credit risk
and legal risk.
Foreign Currency Management
The Company's functional currencies are generally the local currencies of
the countries in which the Company operates. All transactions in currencies
other than the given functional currency are recorded at the rate of exchange of
the transaction or, if hedged forward, at the rate of exchange under the related
forward exchange contract. Any resulting exchange differences are included in
current results. The cumulative translation effects of translating the financial
statements of operations using functional currencies other than U.S. dollar to
the reporting currency are included in foreign currency translation adjustment
in shareholders' equity and are only included in net earnings upon sale or
liquidation of the underlying investments.
A number of MIH Limited's subsidiaries use foreign currency forward
exchange contracts, which typically expire within one year, to hedge a
substantial portion of their currency risks arising from payments of foreign
currencies related to the purchase of goods and services in currencies other
than their functional currency. Realized gains and losses on these contracts are
recognized in the same period as the hedged transactions are included in
earnings. MIH Limited and its subsidiaries had foreign exchange forward
contracts on hand at March 31, 1999, hedging South African rand and Greek
drachma against the U.S. dollar. The Company does not currently hold or issue
derivative financial or interest rate instruments for trading purposes, but
intends to continue to use forward exchange contracts to limit its exposure to
expected depreciation of some of its functional currencies relative to foreign
currencies in which it incurs a significant portion of its cost.
The Company's forward exchange contracts are primarily to hedge the South
African rand and Greek drachma against the U.S. dollar. During the year ended
March 31, 1999, the value of the U.S. dollar increased against the South African
rand by approximately 23.4% and the Greek drachma by approximately 3.0%. The
cost of the Company's foreign currency commitments were approximately $ 4.1
million less during this period as a result of forward currency contracts
entered into, measured as the difference between the spot rate and the contract
rate at the contract due date. During the year ended March 31, 1998 the U.S.
dollar strengthened against the South African rand and Greek drachma by
approximately 14.1% and 20.5%, respectively. During the year ended March 31,
1998, the cost of the Company's foreign currency commitments were approximately
$1.8 million greater as a result of hedging activities.
48
<PAGE>
At March 31, 1999 the Company's net monetary liability position in US
dollars subject to risk of foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations amounted
to $171.5 million. The exposure amount primarily reflects US dollar-denominated
debt relating to capital lease commitments and programme and film rights. The
aggregate hypothetical loss in earnings on an annual basis that would result
from a hypothetical appreciation of 10% in the US dollar, European currency
unit and Netherlands guilders against the South African rand and Greek
drachma is estimated to be $15.9 million. The Company's exposure to other
changes of currencies other than the US dollar would not be material.
Interest Rate Sensitivity
The Company generally does not undertake any specific actions to cover its
exposure to interest rate risk and at March 31, 1999 is not party to any
interest rate risk management transactions.
At March 31, 1999 the Company assets only include certain short-term fixed
or variable rate instruments. The fair value of these instruments would not
change significantly as a result of changes in interest rates as a result of
their short-term nature and variable interest rates, respectively. At March 31,
1999 fair value of the Company's US dollar-denominated capital lease liabilities
was estimated at $197.6 million and the South African rand denominated other
fixed rate long-term debt was estimated at $22.7 million. Assuming an increase
of 1.5 percentage points on the weighted average interest rate, the fair value
of the capital lease liabilities would be approximately $10 million lower than
the fair value at March 31, 1999. A similar increase in the interest rate on
other long-term debt has no material impact on the fair value.
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS OF REGISTRANT
The following table sets forth certain information as of July 1, 1999 with
respect to persons who serve as directors or executive officers and other key
personnel of the Company:
Name Age Positions with the Company
Theunissen Vosloo 61 Chairman of the Board of Directors
Jacobus D. T. Stofberg 47 Chief Executive Officer and Director
Jacobus P. Bekker 45 Director
Vaughan G. Bray 63 Director
A. Andre Coetzee 47 Director
Johannes H. W. Hawinkels 47 Chief Executive Officer - MIH Asia and Director
Stephen G. Oldfield 44 Chief Executive Officer - Mindport and Director
Stephan J. Z. Pacak 43 Director
Lesley R. Penfold 36 Chief Financial Officer and Director
William J. Raduchel 53 Director
Allan M. Rosenzweig 43 Group Director - Corporate Finance and Director
Sheryl A. Raine 40 Chief Executive Officer - NetMed
J. James Volkwyn 40 Chief Executive Officer - MultiChoice Africa
Messrs. Vosloo, Stofberg, Bekker, Bray, Coetzee, Hawinkels, Oldfield,
Pacak, Penfold, Raduchel and Rosenzweig are referred to herein as the "named
directors and officers".
Pursuant to the Memorandum and Articles of MIH Limited, the Board of
Directors will be classified into three classes of directors at its next annual
meeting of stockholders. The terms of the classes of directors will expire at
the annual meetings of stockholders to be held in 2000, 2001 and 2002,
respectively. Thereafter, the classes will be elected to staggered three-year
terms.
Theunissen Vosloo has been the Chairman of the Board of Directors of MIH
Limited since August 1993. Mr. Vosloo is also currently the non-executive
Chairman of the Board of Directors of Naspers and holds a variety of other
chairmanships among the Naspers group of companies. In 1984, he assumed the
position of managing director at Naspers and then served as the executive
chairman from September 1992 until September 1997. Mr. Vosloo is also Chairman
of the Board of Directors of MIH Holdings and M-Net Ltd.
Jacobus D.T. Stofberg has been the Chief Executive Officer and a director
of MIH Limited since September 1998. Mr. Stofberg has been the managing director
of MIH Holdings since September 1997 and, as one of the original members of the
MIH Holdings management team, has also held a variety of positions within the
MIH Holdings group of companies, including that of Chief Operating Officer since
1985. Mr. Stofberg currently serves as a director of M-Net Ltd, M-Web and SSIH.
Before joining MIH Limited in September 1998, Mr. Stofberg was a director of
NetHold, MIH Limited's previous joint venture, and held a variety of
directorships within the NetHold group of companies. In addition, Mr. Stofberg
has previously served as a director of MultiChoice Africa and NetMed.
49
<PAGE>
Jacobus P. Bekker has been a director of MIH Limited since September 1998.
Mr. Bekker and Mr. Stofberg founded MIH Holdings in 1985 and Mr. Bekker has held
a variety of positions within the MIH Holdings group of companies since that
time. Mr. Bekker was CEO of MIH Holdings until 1997, when he became the managing
director of Naspers. He is also currently the Chairman of the Board of Directors
of M-Web, and a director of MIH Holdings, SSIH, M-Net Ltd., MTN and M-Cell. Mr.
Bekker is also a director of a number of South African print media companies and
served as a director of NetHold from September 1995 to April 1997.
A. Andre Coetzee has been the MIH group general counsel and director since
June 1999. Before joining the group, Dr. Coetzee was a partner of Mallinicks
Attorneys, from 1984 until 1992 in Cape Town, South Africa, and since then, in
London. Dr. Coetzee has been an adviser to the MIH group and associated
companies since 1985.
Vaughan G. Bray has been a director of MIH Limited since August 1993. Mr.
Bray joined Johnnic in 1960, specializing in investment and finance, and was
appointed to the position of Finance Director in 1984. Since 1995, he has also
been the Chief Executive Officer of Johnnic. In addition, Mr. Bray is a director
of MIH Holdings, M-Net Ltd. and M-Cell and the Chairman of the Board of
Directors of Omni Media Corporation Limited.
Johannes H. W. Hawinkels has been the Chief Executive Officer of MIH Asia
Limited and a director of MIH Limited since July 1997 and September 1998,
respectively. Mr. Hawinkels has held a variety of positions within the MIH
Holdings group of companies since 1993. Mr. Hawinkels also currently serves as a
director of certain of MIH Limited's joint ventures in the Middle East and
Egypt. In addition, Mr. Hawinkels was the Chief Executive Officer of MultiChoice
Africa from August 1993 to August 1997. Mr. Hawinkels has also previously served
as a director of MultiChoice Africa. Mr. Hawinkels was previously a director of
a leisure company involved in film distribution and exhibition, fast food
franchising, sports goods retail and wholesale and film production.
Stephen G. Oldfield has been the Chief Executive Officer of Mindport and
director of MIH Limited since September 1997 and September 1998, respectively.
Mr. Oldfield has held a variety of positions within the MIH Holdings group of
companies since 1986. Mr. Oldfield has been a director of both NetMed and OpenTV
since April 1998. Mr. Oldfield was also Chief Executive Officer of NetMed from
1994 to 1997.
Stephan J.Z. Pacak has been a director of MIH Limited since March 1996.
Mr. Pacak was the Chief Financial Officer of MIH Holdings from November 1993 to
January 1998 and has held a variety of executive positions within the MIH
Holdings group of companies. In addition to being a director of MIH Holdings,
Mr. Pacak is also a director of Naspers, M-Net Ltd., M-Web, SSIH and a number of
South African print media companies and is the chief executive officer of
M-Cell. Mr. Pacak also previously served as a director of MultiChoice Africa.
Lesley R. Penfold has been the Chief Financial Officer and a director of
MIH Limited since March 1998. Mr. Penfold has been the Chief Financial Officer
and an alternate director of MIH Holdings since January 1998 and February 1998,
respectively. Mr. Penfold also currently serves as a director of NetMed,
MultiChoice Africa, M-Web and M-Net Ltd. and SSIH as an alternate. Mr. Penfold
worked in the corporate finance departments of Investec Bank Ltd. and Standard
Merchant Bank Limited from May 1994 to January 1998 and from May 1993 to May
1994, respectively. From 1981 to 1993, Mr. Penfold held a number of positions at
Deloitte & Touche in the corporate finance and audit departments.
William J. Raduchel has been a director of MIH Limited since June 1999.
Mr. Raduchel is a member of Sun Microsystems Inc.'s ("Sun") executive committee
which handles day-to-day operations and long term strategic planning. He has
been the chief strategy officer of Sun since 1998. Before accepting his current
position he was responsible for managing information systems and resources for
Sun and its associated companies. Mr. Raduchel joined Sun in 1988 and was
appointed as vice president of finance and chief financial officer. Prior to
joining Sun, Mr. Raduchel served as vice-president for document systems in Xerox
and also held various executive positions at Data Resources Inc., the Institute
of Defense Analysis and Harvard University.
Allan M. Rosenzweig has been the Group Director-Corporate Finance of MIH
Limited since February 1996 and a director of MIH Limited since October 1997.
Mr. Rosenzweig currently serves as a director of M-Web, Mindport and OpenTV.
Before joining MIH Limited in 1996, Mr. Rosenzweig was the Director of Corporate
Finance of NetHold. In addition, Mr. Rosenzweig was previously the managing
director of Intertax (Pty) Ltd., an international tax consultancy firm. He also
serves on the boards of other publicly quoted companies like United Services
Technologies Limited and Brait S.A.
Sheryl A. Raine has been the Chief Executive Officer of NetMed since
October 1997. Ms. Raine has also been a director of NetMed since March 1998. In
addition, Ms. Raine previously served as the director of channels of M-Net Ltd.
from 1991 to 1995 and as the managing director of NetHold Electronic Media from
November 1995 until April 1997.
J. James Volkwyn has been the Chief Executive Officer of MultiChoice
Africa since September 1997. Mr. Volkwyn also currently serves as a director of
MultiChoice Africa and MultiChoice Middle East. Mr. Volkwyn was the chief
operations officer (excluding South African operations) and finance manager of
MultiChoice Africa from January 1996 to September 1997, and finance manager of
MultiChoice Africa from January 1993 to December 1995.
50
<PAGE>
The business address of the Company's director and offices is the
Company's registered office: Abbott Building, Mount Street, Tortola, Road Town,
British Virgin Islands.
ITEM 11. COMPENSATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS
The aggregate salary and related benefits compensation paid by MIH Limited
and its subsidiaries to the named directors and officers as a group during the
fiscal year ending March 31, 1999 for the period they served as a director was
approximately $1,267,650. The aggregate bonus compensation paid by MIH Limited
and its subsidiaries to the named directors and officers as a group during the
fiscal year ending March 31, 1999 was approximately $336,185.
The aggregate amount to be set aside by MIH Limited and its subsidiaries
to provide pension, retirement and similar benefits to the named directors and
officers as a group during the fiscal year ending March 31, 1999 was
approximately $112,281.
Share Scheme
Pursuant to the Deed constituting the MIH Limited Share Trust, dated March
22, 1999, MIH Limited has established the MIH Limited Share Scheme (the "Share
Scheme") and appointed trustees (the "Trustees") to administer the Share Scheme.
The Share Scheme is intended to provide an incentive to the Company's employees,
by giving them an opportunity to acquire Class A Ordinary Shares of MIH Limited,
to remain in the Company's employment and to promote the Company's continued
growth. The following summary does not purport to be complete and is subject to,
and qualified in its entirety by, the Share Scheme, which has been filed as an
exhibit to the Company's Registration Statement No. 333-74227 on Form F-1.
MIH Limited may allocate to the MIH Limited Share Trust a number of Class
A Ordinary Shares which represent, in aggregate, no more than 10% of the total
number of Ordinary Shares. Class A Ordinary Shares which are allotted to the
Trust for the purpose of the Share Scheme become "Scheme Shares" and an amount
equal to the total consideration payable in respect of the Scheme Shares is
advanced to the Trust by MIH Limited as an interest-free loan.
Under the Share Scheme, the Trustees may offer or grant options in respect
of Scheme Shares to selected employees at a price set by the Trustees. The
employees are selected and the number of shares are determined by the Trustees
after consultation with the Compensation Committee. The aggregate number of
Scheme Shares which can be made available to any one employee under the Share
Scheme is not permitted to exceed approximately 1% of total number of Ordinary
Shares issued and outstanding.
Each offer sets forth the terms on which it may be accepted. The time
period for acceptance is usually within 14 days from the date of the offer, and
the maximum period which may be allowed for the payment of the purchase price is
5 years and 105 days from the effective date of the offer. Under the Share
Scheme, the purchase price is payable in three equal installments which may not
be paid before the third, fourth and fifth anniversaries, respectively, of the
date on which the offer was made. The Trustees may, however, in their discretion
allow earlier payment dates.
Similarly, each option sets out the terms on which it may be exercised.
The maximum period which may be allowed for the exercise of an option is 5 years
and 105 days from the date the option was granted. However, options are
generally exercisable immediately on (or within a short period after) the date
on which they were granted. The implementation of the resulting contract (being
the payment of the purchase price against delivery) takes place in three phases
which may not be effected before the third, fourth and fifth anniversaries,
respectively, of the grant date. The Trustees may, however, in their discretion
allow earlier implementation.
Accordingly, unless the Trustees permit otherwise, Scheme Shares are only
transferred to employees in three equal tranches on the third, fourth and fifth
anniversaries of the date of the offer or grant of the option, as the case may
be.
The directors of MIH Limited may amend the provisions of the Share Scheme;
however, any amendments which would adversely affect an employee's rights under
any offers which have been made or options which have been granted, would
require the consent of the affected employee.
ITEM 12. OPTIONS TO PURCHASE SECURITIES FROM REGISTRANT OR SUBSIDIARIES
On September 11, 1998, the Compensation Committee of the Board of
Directors determined it would award options to purchase 950,140 of the Class A
Ordinary Shares (after giving effect to stock splits) to directors and members
of management under the Share Scheme. On April 1, 1999, the Company granted
these options. The exercise price of the options is $10.57, which represents the
estimated fair value of the shares on September 11, 1998, the date of the
Compensation Committee's determination. The options expire if they are not
exercised within the period of five years and one hundred and five days from the
option date.
51
<PAGE>
On May 6, 1999, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors
determined it would award and grant further options to purchase 771,327 of the
Class A Ordinary Shares to directors and members of management under the MIH
Limited Share Scheme. The exercise price of the options is $18.625, which
represents the market value of the shares on May 6, 1999, the date of the
Compensation Committee's determination. The options expire if they are not
exercised within the period of five years and one hundred and five days from the
option date.
ITEM 13. INTEREST OF MANAGEMENT IN CERTAIN TRANSACTIONS
Channel Distribution Arrangements
Pursuant to channel distribution agreements (the "M-Net Channel
Distribution Agreements") between MultiChoice Africa and M-Net Ltd., the Company
has the right to distribute by analog and digital distribution systems, and to
license the reception by terrestrial analog and digital satellite distribution
systems of, the M-Net channels. M-Net Ltd. provides the M-Net and Movie Magic
channels and has the exclusive rights to the South African and Sub-Saharan
pay-television broadcast of movies from major movie studios, including Disney,
Warner Brothers, Columbia Tristar/Sony, Fox, MCA/Universal, Paramount, MGM and
DreamWorks. The M-Net Channel Distribution Agreements expire in 2005 (digital)
and 2002 (analog). Pursuant to the M-Net Channel Distribution Agreements,
MultiChoice Africa pays M-Net Ltd. fees based on subscriber numbers. During the
fiscal year ended March 31, 1999, these amounts totaled approximately ZAR 435
million ($74.4 million).
The Company, through the M-Net Channel Distribution Agreements, also has
the right to distribute the sports channels which are produced by SSIH. SSIH has
obtained the exclusive rights to broadcast the South African cricket and rugby
leagues along with major international cricket and rugby events, two of the most
popular sports in South Africa. Pursuant to the M-Net Channel Distribution
Agreements, MultiChoice Africa pays SSIH fees based on subscriber numbers.
During the fiscal year ended March 31, 1999 these amounts totaled approximately
ZAR 370 million ($63.3 million).
The M-Net Channel Distribution Agreements are disclosed because
MultiChoice Africa is a subsidiary of MIH Limited. SSIH is a shareholder in MIH
Limited.
Transmission Arrangements
The Company, through certain of its subsidiaries and joint ventures, has
various arrangements (the "Orbicom Arrangements") with Orbicom, pursuant to
which MIH Limited's subsidiaries receive certain rights and services, including
transponder leasing (C-band and Ku-band capacity), terrestrial and satellite
signal distribution, maintenance of transmitter networks and backhaul and uplink
services. The Orbicom Arrangements expire at various times. Pursuant to the
Orbicom Arrangements, the Company pays Orbicom fixed monthly fees for leasing
arrangements and variable fees for maintenance services. During the fiscal year
ended March 31, 1999, these amounts totaled approximately $28.8 million.
The M-Net Channel Distribution Agreements and the Orbicom Arrangements
were negotiated on an arms-length basis and, the Company believes, on terms no
less favorable than the Company could have received from independent third
parties.
The Orbicom Arrangements are disclosed because MIH Holdings (the parent of
MIH (BVI) Limited) formerly owned 80% of Orbicom and Johnnic presently owns
approximately 30% of M-Cell.
Sale of Orbicom
In terms of agreements amongst MIH Holdings, MultiChoice Africa, M-Cell
and Orbicom dated June 17, 1999, M-Cell acquired all of the issued shares in
Orbicom. See "Item 1. Description of Business-The Company-Affiliates". Orbicom's
services will continue to be provided to the Company at cost for a minimum
period of two years.
The sale of Orbicom is disclosed because Johnnic presently owns
approximately 30% of M-Cell.
Acquisition of Shares in M-Web
The Company intends, subject to the requisite shareholder approvals, to
acquire by way of a private placement a number of shares in M-Web equalling up
to 10% of M-Web's issued share capital after such acquisition.
The intended acquisition of shares in M-Web is disclosed because MIH
Investments (Proprietary) Limited presently owns more than 50% of the issued
shares in MIH Holdings and M-Web.
52
<PAGE>
PART III
ITEM 15. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
None.
ITEM 16. CHANGES IN SECURITIES AND CHANGES IN SECURITY FOR REGISTERED SECURITIES
None.
PART IV
ITEM 17. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Not applicable.
ITEM 18. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Reference is made to Item 19(a) for a list of all financial statements filed as
part of this Annual Report.
53
<PAGE>
ITEM 19. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND EXHIBITS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(a) List of Financial Statements Page
<S> <C>
MIH Limited and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Financial Statements
Report of Independent Accountants ..................................................... F-2
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997 ....................... F-3
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended March 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997 F-4
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow for the years ended March 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997 F-5
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareholders'Equity for the years ended
March 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997 ...................................................... F-6
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements ........................................ F-7
Acquired MIH Businesses (Predecessor to MIH Limited)
Combined Financial Statements
Report of Independent Accountants ..................................................... F-35
Combined Balance Sheet as of March 31, 1997 ........................................... F-36
Combined Statement of Operations for the year ended March 31, 1997 .................... F-37
Combined Statement of Cash Flow for the year ended March 31, 1997 ..................... F-38
Combined Statement of Changes in Net Deficit for the year ended March 31, 1997 ........ F-39
Notes to the Combined Financial Statements ............................................ F-40
United Broadcasting Corporation Public Company
Consolidated Financial Statements
Report of Independent Auditors ........................................................ F-53
Consolidated Balance Sheet as of March 31, 1999 ....................................... F-54
Consolidated Statement of Loss for the year ended March 31, 1999 ...................... F-55
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareholders'Equity for the year ended
March 31, 1999 ...................................................................... F-56
Consolidated Statement of Deficit in Shareholders'Equity for the year ended
March 31, 1999 ...................................................................... F-57
Consolidated Cash Flow Statement for the year ended March 31, 1999 .................... F-58
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements ........................................ F-59
</TABLE>
F-1
<PAGE>
REPORT OF THE INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
To the directors and shareholders of MIH Limited
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of MIH Limited and
subsidiaries as of March 31, 1999 and 1998, and the related consolidated
statements of operations, cash flow and changes in shareholders' equity for each
of the three years in the period ended March 31, 1999. These consolidated
financial statements are the responsibility of MIH Limited's management. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial
statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards
in the Republic of South Africa, which are substantially the same as those
followed in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan
and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the
consolidated 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
audits provide 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 MIH Limited and
subsidiaries as of March 31, 1999 and 1998, and the consolidated results of
their operations, cash flow and changes in shareholders' equity for each of the
three years in the period ended March 31, 1999, in conformity with International
Accounting Standards.
International Accounting Standards vary in certain significant respects from
accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The
application of the latter would have affected the determination of consolidated
results for each of the three years in the period ended March 31, 1999 and
shareholders' equity as of March 1999 and 1998 to the extent summarized in Note
29 to the consolidated financial statements.
PricewaterhouseCoopers Inc.
Chartered Accountants (SA)
Registered Accountants and Auditors
Sunninghill
Republic of South Africa
June 17, 1999
F-2
<PAGE>
Consolidated Balance Sheets
March 31, 1999 and 1998
(in thousands of US dollars)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Notes 1999 1998
------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
ASSETS
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents ......................................... $ 56,099 $ 153,412
Accounts receivable, net .......................................... 4 50,557 36,999
Other receivables ................................................. 5 28,229 29,444
Program and film rights ........................................... 11 38,935 22,543
Amounts owing by related parties .................................. 20 14,221 14,784
Inventories, net .................................................. 6 21,368 18,283
--------- ---------
Total current assets .......................................... 209,409 275,465
--------- ---------
Non-current assets
Tangible fixed assets, net ........................................ 8 237,104 114,248
Intangible assets, net ............................................ 9 207,201 163,611
Long-term investments ............................................. 10 70,114 77,020
Program and film rights ........................................... 11 52,399 15,711
--------- ---------
Total non-current assets ...................................... 566,818 370,590
--------- ---------
TOTAL ASSETS .................................................. $ 776,227 $ 646,055
========= =========
LIABILITIES
Current liabilities
Bank overdrafts and short-term loans .............................. $ 64,117 $ 16,399
Current portion of long-term debt ................................. 14 15,512 36,369
Current portion of program and film rights ........................ 14 37,857 6,431
Accounts payable .................................................. 43,164 52,344
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities .................... 12 161,472 115,446
Amounts owing to related parties .................................. 20 16,298 25,804
Provisions ........................................................ 13 11,933 57,019
--------- ---------
Total current liabilities .................................... 350,353 309,812
--------- ---------
Non-current liabilities
Long-term debt .................................................... 14 204,770 54,787
Program and film rights ........................................... 14 43,777 24,608
Deferred taxation ................................................. 15 120 3,275
Total non-current liabilities ................................ 248,667 82,670
--------- ---------
TOTAL LIABILITIES .................................................. 599,020 392,482
========= =========
Minority interest .................................................. 524 --
Commitments and contingencies ...................................... 22 -- --
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Share capital
Class A Ordinary Shares no par value:
Authorized: 1999 and 1998: 103,468,878
Issued: 1999 and 1998: 7,447,681 ............................. 113,986 113,986
Class B Ordinary Shares no par value:
Authorized: 1999 and 1998: 55,920,509
Issued: 1999 and 1998: 30,787,319 ............................ 475,566 475,566
Accumulated loss ................................................... (382,386) (313,547)
Foreign currency translation adjustment ............................ (30,483) (22,432)
--------- ---------
TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY ........................................ 176,683 253,573
========= =========
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY ........................ $ 776,227 $ 646,055
========= =========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
F-3
<PAGE>
Consolidated Statements of Operations
for the years ended March 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997
(in thousands of US dollars,
except per share and share amounts)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Notes 1999 1998 1997
--------- ------------ ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net revenues ................................. 16 $ 610,099 $ 501,492 $ --
Operating expenses:
Cost of providing services ................. (392,116) (308,996) --
Selling, general and administrative ........ (210,408) (177,213) (899)
Depreciation and amortization .............. (51,390) (58,010) --
------------ ------------ ------------
Total operating expenses ..................... (653,914) (544,219) (899)
------------ ------------ ------------
Operating loss ............................... (43,815) (42,727) (899)
Financial results, net ..................... 17 (9,078) (5,488) (107)
Equity results in joint ventures ........... (41,219) (5,091) (129,858)
Equity results in associates ............... (2,053) (2,783) --
Profit on sale of joint venture ............ 31,093 -- 540,028
------------ ------------ ------------
(Loss)/profit before taxation ................ (65,072) (56,089) 409,164
Income taxation ............................ 18 (309) (7,570) --
------------ ------------ ------------
(Loss)/profit after taxation ................. (65,381) (63,659) 406,164
Minority interest .......................... 371 3,793 --
------------ ------------ ------------
(Loss)/profit from continuing operations ..... (65,010) (59,866) 409,164
Loss from discontinued operations ............ 19 (3,829) (3,936) --
------------ ------------ ------------
Net (loss)/profit ...................... $ (68,839) $ (63,802) $ 409,164
============ ============ ============
Per share amounts:
(Loss)/profit from continuing operations
Basic and diluted .......................... $ (1.70) $ (1.57) $ 10.70
Net (loss)/profit
Basic and diluted .......................... $ (1.80) $ (1.67) $ 10.70
Shares used to compute (loss)/profit per share 38,235,000 38,235,000 38,235,000
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
</TABLE>
F-4
<PAGE>
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow
for the years ended March 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997
(in thousands of US dollars,
except per share and share amounts)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Notes 1999 1998 1997
------- --------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Cash flows from operating activities
Operating loss ....................................... $ (43,815) $ (42,727) $ (899)
Adjustments for:
Depreciation and amortization ...................... 51,390 58,010 --
Amortization of program and film rights ............ 32,237 32,599 --
Taxation (paid)/ refunded .......................... (5,755) 2,849 --
(Profit)/loss on sale of tangible fixed assets ..... (371) 1,653 --
(Increase)/ decrease in receivables ................ (3,454) (9,553) 12,072
Payments for program and film rights ............... (84,034) (26,048) --
Net decrease/(increase) in amounts
owing to/(owing by) related parties ................ 12,191 (18,790) --
Increase in inventories ............................ (1,997) (6,783) --
Decrease/(increase) in payables .................... 28,263 17,941 (5,194)
Utilised in discontinued operations .................. (3,829) (3,936) --
--------- --------- ---------
Net cash (used in)/from operating activities ....... (19,174) 5,215 5,979
--------- --------- ---------
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchase of tangible fixed assets .................... (11,352) (31,664) --
Proceeds on sale of tangible fixed assets ............ 7,389 5,276 --
Dividends received from associates ................... 2,573 1,539 --
Proceeds on disposal of Internet businesses .......... -- 21,546 --
Proceeds on disposal of Canal Plus shares ............ -- 261,536 --
Acquisition of subsidiaries, net of cash acquired .... 27 (13,245) (33,911) 54,045
Investment in OpenTV ................................. (9,513) (9,100) --
Investment in UBC .................................... (66,701) (45,797) (10,348)
Net (increase)/decrease in other investments ......... (4,704) 1,052 --
--------- --------- ---------
(95,553) 170,477 43,697
--------- --------- ---------
Cash flows from financing activities
Finance costs ........................................ (11,651) (11,312) (107)
Funds raised from outside shareholders ............... -- 3,793 --
Net repayment of long-term debt ...................... (29,070) (20,556) --
Capital leases repaid ................................ (10,995) (4,550) --
Proceeds on transfer of M-Net/SuperSport shares ...... 22,243 -- --
Dividends paid ....................................... -- (51,817) --
Bank overdrafts raised ............................... 47,581 7,479 9,913
--------- --------- ---------
Net cash from/(used in) financing activities ....... 18,108 (76,963) 9,806
--------- --------- ---------
Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents . (96,619) 98,729 59,482
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year ....... 153,412 60,773 1,466
Translation adjustment on cash and cash equivalents .. (694) (6,090) (175)
--------- --------- ---------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year ............. $ 56,099 $ 153,412 $ 60,773
========= ========= =========
</TABLE>
Non-cash transactions
The principal non-cash transactions are the acquisition of OpenTV Inc. and the
acquisition of property, plant and equipment using capital leases.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
F-5
<PAGE>
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareholders' Equity
for the years ended March 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997
(in thousands of US dollars)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Foreign
Share capital currency
------------- Accumulated translation
Class A Class B loss adjustments Total
--------- --------- --------- ----------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
At March 31, 1996 ............ $ 113,986 $ 471,198 $(607,092) $ (7,929) $ (29,837)
Net profit ................... -- -- 409,164 -- 409,164
Translation adjustment ....... -- -- -- 17,958 17,958
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
At March 31, 1997 ............ 113,986 471,198 (197,928) 10,029 397,285
Capital contribution (note 19) -- 4,368 -- -- 4,368
Net loss ..................... -- -- (63,802) -- (63,802)
Dividend paid ................ -- -- (51,817) -- (51,817)
Translation adjustment ....... -- -- -- (32,461) (32,461)
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
At March 31, 1998 ............ 113,986 475,566 (313,547) (22,432) 253,573
Net loss ..................... -- -- (68,839) -- (68,839)
Translation adjustment ....... -- -- -- (8,051) (8,051)
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
At March 31, 1999 ............ $ 113,986 $ 475,566 $(382,386) $ (30,483) $ 176,683
========= ========= ========= ========= =========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
F-6
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. Nature of operations
MIH Limited (MIH) was incorporated on July 26, 1991 under the laws of the
British Virgin Islands. The principal activities of MIH and its operating
subsidiaries (collectively, the Company) are the provision of pay-television and
subscriber management services (pay-television services) and the development and
sale of pay-television technology. These activities are conducted through
subsidiaries, joint ventures and investments primarily in Africa, Greece,
Cyprus, the Middle East, the Netherlands, Thailand and the United States of
America.
Until March 31, 1997 the Company's main activity was its 50% share in
Network Holdings S.A. (NetHold), a joint venture. The principal activities of
NetHold included pay-television operations in Africa, Greece, Cyprus, the Middle
East, the Benelux and Scandinavian countries and Italy (Note 3).
2. Principal accounting policies and reporting currency
The consolidated financial statements of the Company have been prepared in
accordance with International Accounting Standards (IAS) issued by the
International Accounting Standards Committee. The financial statements have been
prepared on the historical cost basis.
The Company has adopted the US dollar as its reporting currency.
Notwithstanding the US dollar reporting currency, the Company measures
separately the transactions of each of its material operations using the
particular currency of the primary economic environment in which the operation
conducts its business (its functional currency).
The financial statements have been translated from functional currencies
to the reporting currency by translating assets and liabilities, both monetary
and non-monetary, and including goodwill and other intangible assets which arise
as a result of equity investments in entities, at the closing rate at each
balance sheet date. Income and expense items are translated at exchange rates at
the dates of the transactions or at average rates. All resulting exchange
differences are included in equity.
Preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) requires management to make
estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and
liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of
the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses
during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
(a) Basis of consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of
MIH and all majority owned (directly and indirectly) and controlled
subsidiaries. A company in which MIH holds directly or indirectly more than 50%
of the ordinary share capital and voting rights is classified as a subsidiary.
Newly acquired companies are consolidated from the effective date of
acquisition. Similarly, the result of a subsidiary divested during an accounting
period is included in the Company accounts only to the date of disposal.
All inter-company transactions are eliminated as part of the consolidation
process and the interests of the minority shareholders in the consolidated
equity and in the consolidated results of the Company are shown separately in
the Consolidated Balance Sheet and Consolidated Statement of Operations. Where
the losses applicable to the minority shareholder in a consolidated subsidiary
exceed the minority interest in the subsidiary, the excess, and any further
losses applicable to the minority, are charged against the majority interest
except to the extent that the minority has a binding obligation to, and is able
to, make good the losses. If the subsidiary subsequently reports profits, the
majority's interest is allocated all such profits until the minority's share of
losses previously absorbed by the majority has been recovered.
Acquisitions of companies are accounted for using the purchase method. The
excess of the purchase price over the fair value of assets acquired less the
liabilities assumed of the acquired company, is allocated to identifiable
tangible and intangible assets and goodwill and amortized over future periods.
Companies in which the Company has joint control are accounted for using
the equity method with the Company's share of profits and losses included in the
Consolidated Statement of Operations. The Company's share of post-acquisition
retained profits/losses is added to/deducted from the cost of the joint venture
investments in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.
Associated companies, over which the Company has significant influence,
are accounted for using the equity method with the Company's share of profits
and losses included in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. The Company's
share of post-acquisition retained profits/losses is added to/deducted from the
cost of the associated company investments in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.
Other investments are stated at cost. When necessary a provision is made
on the basis of an evaluation of each individual investment for any diminution
in value which is considered to be of a permanent nature.
F-7
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
2. Principal accounting policies and reporting currency (continued)
(b) Foreign currencies
Individual companies' transactions in currencies other than their
functional currency are recorded at the rate of exchange at the date of the
transaction or, if hedged forward, at the rate of exchange under the related
forward exchange contract. Assets and liabilities in currencies other than their
functional currency are translated at year-end rates. Any resulting exchange
differences are reflected in the Statement of Operations.
On consolidation, assets and liabilities of subsidiaries denominated in
foreign currencies are translated at year-end rates. Income and expense items
are translated using the annual weighted average rates of exchange or, where
known or determinable, at the rate on the date of the transaction for
significant items.
Adjustments from translation have been recorded in shareholders' equity
and are reflected in the Consolidated Statement of Operations only upon sale or
liquidation of the underlying investments.
(c) Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents represent cash and short-term highly liquid
investments with original maturities of three months or less.
(d) Trade accounts receivable
Trade accounts receivable are stated at estimated realizable values and an
allowance for doubtful accounts is provided for an amount considered by
management to be sufficient to meet probable future losses related to
uncollectable amounts.
(e) Inventories
Inventories, consisting primarily of decoders and associated components,
are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Cost is generally
determined on the first-in first-out basis. Where necessary, provision is made
for obsolete, slow moving or defective inventories.
(f) Tangible fixed assets
Tangible fixed assets are stated at historical cost less accumulated
depreciation. Depreciation is charged on a straight-line basis over the
estimated useful lives of the respective assets, based on the following useful
lives:
Years
Buildings 50
Machinery, furniture and equipment 4 - 10
Transponders and transmitters 10 - 12
Decoders 2
Land is not depreciated. Improvements to leasehold properties are
amortized over the period of the respective leases.
Fully depreciated assets are retained in tangible fixed assets and
depreciation accounts until they are removed from service. In the case of
disposals, assets and related depreciation are removed from the accounts and the
net amount, less proceeds from disposal, is charged or credited to the Statement
of Operations.
(g) Intangible assets
Intangible assets are stated at historical cost less accumulated
amortization. Amortization of intangible assets relating to the subscriber base
and intellectual property rights is charged on a straight-line basis over the
period of expected benefit, which is five years. Goodwill is amortized on a
straight-line basis over five years.
(h) Leases
Assets held under capital lease agreements are treated as tangible fixed
assets and the present value of the related lease payments is recorded as a
liability. Costs for operating leases are charged to the Statement of Operations
in the year that they are incurred.
(i) Long-lived assets
The Company periodically evaluates the carrying value of long-lived assets
to be held and used, including goodwill and other intangible assets, when events
and circumstances warrant such a review. The carrying value of a long-lived
asset is considered impaired when the anticipated undiscounted cash flow from
such an asset is separately identifiable and is less than its carrying value. In
that event, a loss is recognized based on the amount by which the carrying value
exceeds the fair market value of the long-lived asset. Fair market value is
determined primarily using anticipated cash flows discounted at a rate
commensurate with the risk involved. Long-lived assets to be disposed of are
recorded at fair market value, reduced by the estimated costs to dispose of the
asset.
F-8
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
2. Principal accounting policies and reporting currency (continued)
(j) Program and film rights
Film rights are stated at acquisition cost less accumulated amortization.
Sports rights are written off upon showing the event and general entertainment
and films are amortized on a straight-line basis over the period of the license
or based on showings where the number of showings is limited. Amortization of
program and film rights is included in the cost of providing services.
(k) Taxation
Provision is made for all taxes payable in respect of taxable profits
earned in the year. The Company also provides at current rates for taxation on
all timing differences between income for financial reporting and fiscal
purposes under the liability method. No deferred taxation is provided for in
respect of timing differences that are anticipated to reverse within the
carry-forward period of tax losses.
(l) Minority interest
The interest of third parties in subsidiaries is accounted for on the
basis of their share in the underlying equity of the subsidiaries.
(m) Revenue recognition
The Company generates revenue from subscription fees, decoder sales and
rentals, technology licensing, advertising and the performance of other
services, net of sales taxes and discounts. Subscription fees are earned over
the period of providing services. Decoder sales, technology licensing and other
services are recorded upon delivery of products and customer acceptance, if any,
or performance of services. Advertising revenues are recognized upon showing
over the period of the advertising contract.
(n) Pensions and other post-retirement benefits
The Company has various post-retirement and pension plans in accordance
with local conditions and practices in the countries in which it operates. The
plans are predominately defined contribution plans. Current contributions to the
pension funds operated for employees are charged to the Statement of Operations
as incurred.
(o) Research and development costs
Research and development costs are expensed in the financial period during
which they are incurred.
(p) Discontinued operations
A discontinued operation results from the sale or abandonment of an
operation that represents a separate, major line of business of an enterprise
and of which the assets, net profits or losses and activities can be
distinguished physically, operationally and for functional reporting purposes.
The results of discontinued operations, net of tax, are separately disclosed.
(q) Dividends
Dividends proposed are payable when declared by the board of directors.
Dividends declared by MIH are payable in United States dollars. Dividends
declared and received by MIH from its subsidiaries are primarily in South
African rand, Greek drachmae and Netherlands guilder.
(r) Financial instruments
The Company enters into foreign currency exchange contracts in order to
reduce the impact of certain foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations. Firmly
committed transactions and the related receivable and payable may be hedged with
forward exchange contracts. Any gains/losses are included in accrued liabilities
and are recognized in results when the transaction being hedged is recognized.
(s) (Loss)/profit per share
Net (loss)/profit per share and (loss)/profit per share from continuing
operations is based on net (loss)/profit and the (loss)/profit from continuing
operations divided by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during
each period.
(t) Segment reporting
The segmental reporting has been prepared based on the Company's method of
internal reporting, which disaggregates its business by service or product and
by geography.
F-9
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
3. Significant acquisitions and divestitures
Until March 31, 1997 the Company's main activity was its 50% share in
NetHold, a joint venture. The principal activities of NetHold included
pay-television operations in Africa, Greece, Cyprus, the Middle East, the
Benelux, Scandinavian countries and Italy. Additionally, NetHold held 100% of
the shares in Irdeto BV (Irdeto), a pay-television technology company. Effective
March 31, 1997, the Company sold its interest in NetHold to Canal Plus in
exchange for a 5% share in Canal Plus and all of NetHold's pay-television
businesses in Africa, Greece, Cyprus and the Middle East. The transaction was
accounted for as a sale of the 50% interest in NetHold and a purchase of the
pay-television businesses transferred to the Company. Thereafter, the Company
acquired a 49% share in Irdeto for a consideration of $17.7 million paid for in
cash.
The Company recognized a gain of $540 million on the sale of its interest
in NetHold. The gain is equal to the excess of the fair value of consideration
received ($475 million) over the book value of the Company's interest in the
NetHold businesses sold ($159 million deficit) less deferral of a portion of the
gain related to warranties provided and direct costs of $94 million. The fair
value of the consideration received consisted of the Canal Plus shares ($273
million) and 50% of the NetHold businesses in Africa, Greece, Cyprus and the
Middle East ($202 million). As a result of the transaction the Company recorded
intangible assets of $193 million, which has been allocated to subscriber
base($55 million) and goodwill ($138 million).
During the 1998 financial year the Company sold its shares in Canal Plus
for a total consideration of approximately $262 million, resulting in a gain of
$3 million.
In January 1998 the Company acquired the remaining 51% of the outstanding
share capital of Irdeto for an aggregate cash consideration of approximately $11
million. For financial statement purposes the acquisition was accounted for as a
purchase, and accordingly, the related business's results are included in the
consolidated financial statements since the date of acquisition.
During the 1998 fiscal year the Company acquired the entire issued share
capital of a number of Internet-related businesses in South Africa. For
financial statement purposes the acquisitions were accounted for as purchases
and, accordingly, the Internet-related businesses' results are included in the
consolidated financial statements since the date of acquisition. The aggregate
purchase price was approximately $21.5 million, which was financed through
internal resources. The excess of the purchase price over the net liabilities
acquired (goodwill) approximated $17 million. With effect from October 1, 1997
the Company sold its Internet-related businesses to M-Web Holdings Limited, a
related party, for $20.5 million, which was settled in cash and resulted in a
surplus of $4.4 million. The Company accounted for the operating losses of the
Internet-related businesses as discontinued operations for the period from May
1, 1997 to September 30, 1997. The $4.4 million surplus on this translation was
accounted for as a capital contribution.
The Company also acquired a 44.5% interest in OpenTV Inc. (OpenTV) for
$15.5 million with effect from January 26, 1998 of which $6.4 million was due in
the 1999 financial year. On March 18, 1999 the Company increased its interest in
OpenTV to 80.1%, through the acquisition of a 44.5% share from Thomson Consumer
Electronics Inc. (Thomson) and agreement to dispose of a portion of that
interest representing 8.9% of OpenTV to a subsidiary of Sun Microsystems. The
purchase from Thomson was in exchange for a $46.2 million note bearing interest
at 7% annually. The note was converted on April 13, 1999 into 2,581,775 Class A
Ordinary Shares at $18.00 per Class A Ordinary Share. The disposal to the
subsidiary of Sun Microsystems was for approximately $9.2 million in cash. The
excess purchase price over the net liabilities acquired of approximately $36.7
million has been allocated to goodwill and is amortized over five years.
The Company invested an additional $17.7 million in United Broadcasting
Corporation Public Company Limited (UBC), a company listed on the Stock Exchange
of Thailand, during the 1998 financial year. As a result of the Company's
additional investment in UBC and following a merger between UBC and UTV Cable
Network Public Company, the Company's interest in the new merged entity
increased to 17.3%. In June 1998, the Company increased its shareholding in UBC
from 17.3% to 26.1% for a purchase consideration of $62.1 million, paid in cash.
In February 1999 the Company acquired an additional 1.7% interest for $4.5
million in cash. The Company intends to exercise an option to purchase an
additional 3.3% of UBC for $8.8 million in cash, taking its interest to 31.1%.
The excess of the consideration of the Company's share of the fair value of the
net assets acquired, amounting to $59.5 million, was allocated to goodwill, and
is amortized over its estimated useful life of five years. Since the increase of
its shareholding, the Company has joint control over UBC and therefore accounts
for its investment in UBC using the equity method of accounting.
On April 4, 1998 the Company transferred 28 million of its shares in
Electronic Media Network Holdings Limited/SuperSport International Holdings
Limited (M-Net/SuperSport) into a trust (the Trust), with the objective to
increase share ownership in M-Net/SuperSport amongst certain South Africans, for
consideration of $22.2 million. The Trust financed 90% of the consideration
through bank borrowings. Under certain
F-10
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
3. Significant acquisitions and divestitures (continued)
circumstances, the Company may be required to assume the obligation for the bank
borrowings at maturity on April 1, 2001 and re-acquire ownership of the
M-Net/SuperSport shares. The shares of M-Net/SuperSport transferred have been
pledged as collateral for such obligations. Under the terms of the sale
agreement the purchasers are entitled to vote the shares and the Company is
entitled to receive any dividend until 2001. The Company recorded a liability of
approximately $20 million related to the bank borrowings. The cash consideration
for the share transfer which has not been financed by bank borrowings is
accounted for as an option premium. The $20 million liability accretes interest
until the redemption date (April 14, 2001) at an interest rate of 12.55%. The
option premium is amortized to income over three years and the Company continues
to account for a 19.8% equity method investment in M-Net/SuperSport.
During November 1998, the Company acquired a 100% interest in TV/Com
International Inc. for $14.5 million, paid in cash. The excess of the
consideration over the fair value of the net assets amounting to $12.3 million,
was allocated to intellectual property rights.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March 31,
---------------------------
1999 1998
(thousands) (thousands)
----------- -----------
4. Accounts receivable
<S> <C> <C>
Trade accounts receivable .................... $ 70,937 $ 47,148
Less: provision for doubtful accounts ........ (20,380) (10,149)
-------- --------
$ 50,557 $ 36,999
======== ========
</TABLE>
Included in accounts receivable are $27.5 million and $14.3 million at
March 31, 1999 and March 31, 1998, respectively, pre-billed to customers and
credit balances which have been recorded as deferred income (Note 12).
5. Other receivables
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
Payments and accrued income .................. $ 8,490 $ 14,272
Other receivables ............................ 19,739 15,172
-------- --------
$ 28,229 $ 29,444
======== ========
</TABLE>
6. Inventories
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
Decoders and associated components ........... $ 31,828 $ 28,689
Less: provision for slow-moving and obsolete
inventories ................................ (10,460) (10,406)
-------- --------
$ 21,368 $ 18,283
======== ========
</TABLE>
F-11
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
7. Valuation and qualifying accounts
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1999 Arising on Credited/
acquisition (Charged)
At March Translation of to cost and At March
31, 1998 adjustment subsidiary Deductions expenses 31, 1999
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
(thousands) (thousands) (thousands) (thousands) (thousands) (thousands)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Provision for:
Doubtful accounts - Note 4 $(10,149) $ 904 $ (1,323) $ -- $ (9,812) $(20,380)
Slow-moving and obsolete
inventories - Note 6 ...... (10,406) (139) -- -- 85 (10,460)
Program and film rights ... (1,872) (25) -- -- 1,897 --
Decoder technology ........ (22,734) 524 -- -- 22,210 --
Post-retirement benefits .. (3,766) 700 -- -- 399 (2,667)
Programming costs ......... (9,093) (210) -- -- 9,303 --
Write-down of carrying
values of assets in certain
African countries ......... (4,341) 807 -- -- 227 (3,307)
Development costs/losses
in joint ventures ......... (10,629) (108) -- 10,737 -- --
Warranties ................ (4,960) (65) -- -- (435) (5,460)
Intellectual property
infringement .............. (1,496) (20) -- -- 1,017 (499)
-------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
$(79,446) $ 2,368 $ (1,323) $ 10,737 $ 24,891 $(42,773)
======== ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
1998 Arising on Credited/
acquisition (Charged)
At March Translation of to cost and At March
31, 1998 adjustment subsidiary Deductions expenses 31, 1999
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
(thousands) (thousands) (thousands) (thousands) (thousands) (thousands)
Provision for:
Doubtful accounts - Note 4 $ (7,067) $ 708 $ (6,251) $ -- $ 2,461 $(10,149)
Slow-moving and obsolete
inventories - Note 6 ...... (6,466) 648 (4,135) -- (453) (10,406)
Program and film rights ... (476) 48 -- -- (1,444) (1,872)
Decoder technology ........ (29,358) 2,942 -- 3,682 -- (22,734)
Post-retirement benefits .. (4,678) 469 -- -- 443 (3,766)
Subscriber guarantees ..... (42,203) 4,229 -- 37,974 -- --
Programming costs ......... (9,125) 914 -- -- (882) (9,093)
Write down of carrying
values of assets in certain
African countries ......... (7,963) 798 -- -- 2,824 (4,341)
Development costs/losses
in joint ventures ......... -- -- (3,398) -- (7,231) (10,629)
Warranties ................ (3,857) 349 -- -- (1,452) (4,960)
Intellectual property
infringement .............. -- -- -- -- (1,496) (1,496)
-------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
$(111,193) $ 11,105 $(13,784) $ 41,656 $ (7,230) $(79,446)
========= ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
</TABLE>
At March 31, 1997 the Company deferred recognition of approximately $73.3
million of the gain arising on the sale of NetHold to Canal+, representing the
estimated probable liability for warranties of decoder technology ($22.7
million) and guarantees of the number of subscribers ($42.2 million) and the
potential reimbursement of programming costs ($9.1 million). During the year
ended March 31, 1998 the Company paid approximately $38.0 million for guarantees
of number of subscribers. As no further claims under the warranties were made
prior to June 30, 1998, the deadline for such claims, the Company reversed the
remaining provisions to profit on sale of joint venture during the current
financial year.
F-12
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
7. Valuation and qualifying accounts (continued)
The provision for the write-down of the carrying value of assets in
certain African countries relates to management's estimates regarding the
recoverability of such assets, given the current economic and political
environment in certain African countries.
Following the termination of an agreement with a joint venture partner,
the provision for development costs/losses in joint ventures has been deducted
from the long-term loan and the net amount disclosed as a short-term receivable.
The warranty provision has been raised to cover smart cards and
conditional access modules supplied to customers.
The intellectual property infringement provision relates to the expected
settlement amount in respect of a patent used in the conditional access system.
8. Tangible fixed assets (in thousands)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Land, buildings
and leasehold Machinery, furniture Transponders
improvements and equipment and transmitters Decoders
Purchased Leased Purchased Leased Purchased Leased Purchased Leased Total
--------- ------ --------- ------ --------- ------ --------- ------ -----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Cost
At April 1, 1998 $ 3,939 $ 10,311 $ 68,726 $ 6,644 $ 8,438 $ 45,822 $ -- $ 7,840 $ 151,720
Translation adjustment (809) (1,901) (10,777) (1,227) 261 (1,423) -- 2,816 (13,060)
Additions 1,619 -- 7,072 166 6,122 138,212 3,633 8,782 165,606
Disposals -- -- (6,790) (2,783) (16) (9) -- -- (9,598)
------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ------- -------- ---------
At March 31, 1999 4,749 8,410 58,231 2,800 14,805 182,602 3,633 19,438 294,668
------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ------- -------- ---------
Accumulated depreciation
At April 1, 1998 (563) (282) (24,548) (1,954) (1,329) (3,223) -- (5,573) (37,472)
Translation adjustment 29 59 3,077 380 (620) 234 (84) (2,289) 786
Reclassifications (812) 66 5,572 43 (766) (140) (2,204) (1,759) --
Charge for the year (893) (178) (8,624) (414) (2,133) (7,178) (217) (3,230) (22,867)
Disposals -- -- 1,973 -- 16 -- -- -- 1,989
------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ------- -------- ---------
At March 31, 1999 (2,239) (335) (22,550) (1,945) (4,832) (10,307) (2,505) (12,851) (57,564)
------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ------- -------- ---------
Net book value
At March 31, 1999 $ 2,510 $ 8,075 $ 35,681 $ 855 $ 9,973 $ 172,295 $ 1,128 $ 6,587 $ 237,104
======= ======== ======== ======== ======== ========= ======= ======== =========
At March 31, 1998 $ 3,376 $ 10,029 $ 44,178 $ 4,690 $ 7,109 $ 42,599 $ -- $ 2,267 $ 114,248
======= ======== ======== ======== ======== ========= ======= ======== =========
</TABLE>
The Company leases certain land and buildings, machinery, furniture and
equipment, and transponders and transmitters. Commitments for minimum rentals
under non-cancellable leases as at March 31, 1999 are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Capital Operating
leases leases
---------- ----------
For the years ended March 31: (thousands) (thousands)
---------- ----------
<S> <C> <C>
2000 $ 32,836 $ 15,103
2001 30,528 16,688
2002 28,179 11,648
2003 26,041 11,155
2004 and after 190,280 33,575
- ---- ---------- ----------
Total minimum lease repayments 307,864 $ 88,169
Less: amount representing interest (110,254) ==========
----------
$ 197,610
==========
</TABLE>
Operating rental expenses for the year ended March 31, 1999 amounted to
approximately $37 million (1998: $33 million). Capital leases bear interest
ranging from 6% - 21% as of March 31, 1999. The weighted average interest rate
was 9.68%.
F-13
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Intellectual
property Subscriber
rights base Goodwill Total
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
(thousands) (thousands) (thousands) (thousands)
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
9. Intangible assets
1999
Cost
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
At April 1, 1998 ..... $ -- $ 48,250 $ 151,531 $ 199,781
Translation difference -- (8,946) (5,193) (14,139)
Additions ............ 12,372 -- 84,986 97,358
--------- --------- --------- ---------
At March 31, 1999 .... 12,372 39,304 231,324 283,000
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Accumulated amortization
At April 1, 1998 ..... -- (9,650) (26,520) (36,170)
Amortization for the year (825) (8,293) (34,684) (43,802)
Translation difference -- 2,248 1,925 4,173
--------- --------- --------- ---------
At March 31, 1999 (825) (15,695) (59,279) (75,799)
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Net book value $ 11,547 $ 23,609 $ 172,045 $ 207,201
========= ========= ========= =========
1998
Cost
At April 1, 1997 ..... $ -- $ 55,000 $ 152,870 $ 207,870
Translation difference -- (6,750) (20,268) (27,018)
Additions ............ -- -- 36,490 36,490
Disposal ............. -- -- (17,561) (17,561)
--------- --------- --------- ---------
At March 31, 1998 .... -- 48,250 151,531 199,781
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Accumulated amortization
At April 1, 1997 ..... -- -- -- --
Amortization for the year -- (10,311) (28,689) (38,999)
Translation difference -- 661 2,169 2,829
--------- --------- --------- ---------
At March 31, 1998 .... -- (9,650) (26,520) (36,170)
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Net book value .......... $ -- $ 38,600 $ 125,011 $ 163,611
========= ========= ========= =========
</TABLE>
F-14
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March 31,
---------------------------
1999 1998
(thousands) (thousands)
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
10. Long-term investments
Marketable securities (a) ................ $ 1,190 $ 56,924
Associates (b) ........................... 14,000 12,992
Joint ventures (c) ....................... 54,924 7,104
--------- ---------
$ 70,114 $ 77,020
========= =========
(a) Marketable securities at cost
Listed shares
UBC (1999: joint venture) .............. $ -- $ 52,840
Unlisted shares
Cable News Egypt S.A.E. (CNE) .......... 1,190 2,985
Croco Beteiligungs Gesellschaft GmbH ... -- 1,004
LTH AE ................................. -- 95
--------- ---------
$ 1,190 $ 56,924
========= =========
(b) Associates
M-Net/SuperSport ......................... $ 8,394 $ 10,312
Orbicom (Proprietary) Limited (Orbicom) .. -- --
Share of post-acquisition retained profits 5,606 2,680
--------- ---------
$ 14,000 $ 12,992
========= =========
(c) Joint ventures
Digco BV (Digco) ......................... $ -- $ 7,762
MultiChoice Supplies (Proprietary) Limited
(MultiChoice Supplies) ................... 2,447 3,686
MultiChoice Middle East .................. 7,055 --
UBC (1998: marketable security) .......... 73,550 --
Share of post-acquisition retained profits
less losses .............................. (28,128) (4,344)
--------- ---------
$ 54,924 $ 7,104
========= =========
Listed shares at market value
UBC .............................. $ 91,774 $ 104,817
M-Net/SuperSport ................. 30,375 54,483
--------- ---------
$ 122,149 $ 159,300
========= =========
</TABLE>
F-15
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
10. Long-term investments (continued)
The following information relates to the Company's significant
investments:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March 31,
-----------------
1999 1998
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Type of investment % % Nature of business Country
Marketable securities at cost
UBC (1999: joint venture) ............... -- 17.3 Management of Thailand
........................................ television platforms
CNE ..................................... 10.0 10.0 Television Egypt
Associates
M-Net/SuperSport ........................ 19.8(1) 20.0 Premium television
........................................ channel provider South Africa
Orbicom ................................. 20.0 20.0 Signal distribution South Africa
Joint ventures
Digco ................................... 50.0 50.0 Decoder technology The Netherlands
UBC (1998: marketable security) ......... 31.1 -- Management of Thailand
(including option) ...................... television platforms
MultiChoice Supplies .................... 50.0 50.0 Decoder rentals South Africa
OpenTV (1999: subsidiary) ............... -- 44.5 Technology
development ............................. USA
MultiChoice Middle East ................. 45.0 45.0 Management of Middle East
television platforms
Subsidiaries
Myriad Africa BV ........................ 100.0 100.0 Investment holding The Netherlands
MultiChoice Africa (Proprietary) ........ 100.0 100.0 Management of South Africa
Limited (MultiChoice Africa) ............ television platforms
MultiChoice Africa Limited .............. 100.0 100.0 Investment holding British Virgin Islands
NetMed BV ............................... 100.0 100.0 Investment holding The Netherlands
NetMed Hellas SA ........................ 52.0 52.0 Management of Greece
television platforms
MultiChoice Hellas SA ................... 52.0 52.0 Management of Greece
........................................ television platforms
Irdeto .................................. 100.0 100.0 Technology development The Netherlands
TV/Com .................................. 100.0 -- Technology development USA
OpenTV (1998: joint venture) ............ 80.1 -- Technology development USA
</TABLE>
(1) The Company accounts for its investment in M-Net/SuperSport using the
equity method of accounting because of the significant influence the Company
exercises over M-Net/SuperSport as a result of common ownership, the Company's
management and directors' representation on the board of directors of
M-Net/SuperSport and the fact that substantially all of M-Net/SuperSport's
revenues are derived from the Company.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March 31,
-----------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997
(thousands) (thousands) (thousands
----------- ----------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Significant joint venture information
Net loss $ (34,401) $ (5,091) $ --
Current assets 38,091 11,110 --
Long-term assets 304,184 5,320 --
Current liabilities (32,619) (26,173) --
Long-term liabilities (36,773) (25,388) --
</TABLE>
F-16
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March 31,
--------------------------
1999 1998
(thousands) (thousands)
----------- ----------
<S> <C> <C>
11. Program and film rights
The following table sets forth the components of program and film
rights, on a gross and net basis:
Cost
Program rights ................................................... $112,319 $ 60,893
Film rights ...................................................... 8,832 13,554
-------- --------
121,151 74,447
-------- --------
Accumulated amortization
Program rights ................................................... 27,366 26,266
Film rights ...................................................... 2,451 9,927
-------- --------
29,817 36,193
-------- --------
Net book value
Program rights ................................................... 84,953 34,627
Film rights ...................................................... 6,381 3,627
-------- --------
$ 91,334 $ 38,254
======== ========
Classified on the balance sheets as follows:
Current assets ..................................................... $ 38,935 $ 22,543
Non-current assets ................................................. 52,399 15,711
-------- --------
$ 91,334 $ 38,254
======== ========
12. Accrued expenses and other current liabilities
Deferred income .................................................... $ 27,508 $ 14,344
Accrued expenses ................................................... 50,226 35,517
Taxes and social securities ........................................ 10,341 12,630
Amounts owing in respect of investments acquired ................... 46,287 6,400
Other current liabilities .......................................... 27,110 46,555
-------- --------
$161,472 $115,446
======== ========
13. Provisions
Decoder technology ................................................. $ -- $ 22,734
Post-retirement benefit (Note 26) .................................. 2,667 3,766
Write-down of carrying values of assets in certain African countries 3,307 4,341
Programming costs .................................................. -- 9,093
Provision for development costs/losses in joint ventures ........... -- 10,629
Warranties ......................................................... 5,460 4,960
Intellectual property infringement ................................. 499 1,496
-------- --------
$ 11,933 $ 57,019
======== ========
</TABLE>
F-17
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March 31,
-----------------------------
1999 1998
(thousands) (thousands)
----------- ----------
<S> <C> <C>
14. Long-term debt and program and film rights
Long-term debt comprises:
Capital leases - Note 8 ................................................ $ 197,610 $ 67,172
NetHold Finance VOF .................................................... -- 23,984
Other long-term debt - Note 3 .......................................... 22,672 --
--------- ---------
220,282 91,156
Less: short-term portion included in current liabilities ............... (15,512) (36,369)
--------- ---------
$ 204,770 $ 54,787
========= =========
</TABLE>
Program and film rights payable are non-interest-bearing and amounts due
in future fiscal years are $37.9 million in 2000, $28.3 million in 2001 and
$15.5 million thereafter.
The loan from NetHold Finance VOF bore interest at 2% above the Amsterdam
Inter-bank Benchmark Rate and was settled on October 5, 1998.
The currency mix of the long-term debt as at March 31, 1999 and 1998 is:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
% %
--------- ---------
<S> <C>
European currency unit ................................................. 17.5 39.0
Greek drachmae ......................................................... 18.5 29.0
Netherlands guilders ................................................... 0.8 19.0
South African rand ..................................................... 12.8 11.0
US dollars ............................................................. 50.4 2.0
--------- ---------
100.0 100.0
========= =========
</TABLE>
F-18
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March 31,
-----------------------------
1999 1998
(thousands) (thousands)
----------- ----------
<S> <C> <C>
15. Deferred taxation
The deferred taxation relates to the temporary differences between
the book values and the tax bases of assets and liabilities. Significant
components of the Company's deferred taxation liabilities and assets are
summarized below:
Deferred taxation liabilities
Leased tangible assets ................................................. $ -- $ 1,097
Purchased intangible fixed assets ...................................... 3 3,275
Prepayments ............................................................ -- 1,995
Subscriber base ........................................................ 7,082 13,472
Intellectual property rights ........................................... 3,464 --
--------- ---------
Gross deferred taxation liabilities .................................... 10,549 19,839
========= =========
Deferred taxation assets
Purchased intangible fixed assets ...................................... -- 2,062
Purchased tangible fixed assets ........................................ 302 350
Accounts receivable and other assets ................................... 4,992 1,387
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities ......................... 7,050 23,791
Program and film rights ................................................ 72 3,113
Leased tangible fixed assets ........................................... 2,939 2,881
Deferred income ........................................................ 4,594 4,929
Tax loss carry forwards ................................................ 33,033 36,156
--------- ---------
Gross deferred taxation assets ......................................... 52,982 74,669
--------- ---------
Net deferred taxation assets ........................................... 42,433 54,830
Less: valuation allowance .............................................. (42,553) (58,105)
--------- ---------
Net deferred tax liabilities ........................................... $ (120) $ (3,275)
========= =========
</TABLE>
The Company has raised a valuation allowance against the net deferred
taxation asset as in management's estimate it is more likely than not that the
deferred taxation asset will not be realized, due to the historical operating
losses incurred by the Company's operations and the timing limits on the tax
loss carry-forwards that arose on these losses.
F-19
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March 31,
-----------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997
(thousands) (thousands) (thousands)
----------- ----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
16. Net revenues
Subscription revenues ...................... $ 442,734 $ 404,479 $ --
Decoder sales and repairs .................. 71,998 63,082 --
Technology ................................. 63,911 12,781 --
Other ...................................... 31,456 21,150 --
--------- --------- ---------
$ 610,099 $ 501,492 $ --
========= ========= =========
17. Financial results, net
Dividend income ............................ $ 2,573 $ 3,177 $ --
Gain on disposal of investments ............ -- 2,647 --
Interest income ............................ 10,328 7,898 --
Exchange losses ............................ (556) (6,049) --
Interest expense ........................... (21,423) (13,161) (107)
--------- --------- ---------
$ (9,078) $ (5,488) $ (107)
========= ========= =========
18. Income taxation
Taxation
Current .................................. $ (3,464) $ (5,964) $ --
Deferred ................................. 3,155 (1,606) --
--------- --------- ---------
Charged against income ..................... $ (309) $ (7,570) $ --
========= ========= =========
</TABLE>
The difference between income taxation expense computed at statutory rates
of the respective companies (35% average) and income taxation expense provided
on results are as follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Income taxation benefit at statutory rates . $ 3,615 $ 19,631 $ --
Unprovided timing differences .............. (11,798) (22,080) --
Permanent differences
Exempt income ............................ 16,248 -- --
Profit on sale of investments ............ -- 1,692 --
Profit on dilution of interest in associates -- 315 --
Non-deductible charges ................... (6,876) (13,961) --
(Expenditure)/income of a capital nature.. (658) 156 --
Other taxes .............................. (1,430) (3,064) --
Change in taxation rates ................. 590 9,741 --
--------- --------- ---------
Income taxation expense .................... $ (309) $ (7,570) $ --
========= ========= =========
</TABLE>
F-20
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
18. Income taxation (continued)
The Company has tax loss carry-forwards of approximately $110.1 million. A
summary of the tax loss carry-forwards at March 31, 1999 (in thousands) by tax
jurisdiction, and the expiry dates is set out below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Africa Mediterranean Total
------ ------------- -----
<S> <C> <C> <C>
1999 ..................... $ 2,300 $ 6,000 $ 8,300
2000 ..................... 2,300 22,500 24,800
2001 ..................... 3,000 6,800 9,800
2002 ..................... 1,400 14,200 15,600
2003 ..................... 8,000 15,700 23,700
Indefinite ............... 27,910 -- 27,910
-------- -------- --------
$ 44,910 $ 65,200 $110,110
-------- -------- --------
</TABLE>
Tax loss carry-forwards of $17 million are only available for offset
against future taxable income from the same category of income which created the
loss.
The ultimate outcome of additional taxation assessments may vary from the
amounts accrued, however management of the Company believe that any additional
taxation liability over and above the amount accrued would not have a material
adverse impact on the Company's results of operations or financial position.
Unprovided timing differences are timing differences that are expected to
reverse within the carry-forward period of tax losses (note 3(k)) and are,
therefore, effectively a valuation allowance.
19. Discontinued operations
1999
With effect from November 24, 1998 the group discontinued the operations
of TV/Com. The costs incurred relate to the termination of the operations.
1998
With effect from October 1, 1997 the Company sold its Internet-related
businesses to M-Web, a related party, for $20.5 million, which was settled in
cash and resulted in a surplus of $4.4 million. The Company accounted for the
operating losses of the Internet-related business as discontinued operations for
the period from May 1, 1997 to September 30, 1997. The $4.4 million surplus on
this transaction was accounted for as a capital contribution.
F-21
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year ended March 31,
--------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997
(thousands) (thousands) (thousands)
----------- ---------- -----------
20. Related party transactions
The Company entered into transactions and has balances with a number of
affiliated companies, including equity investees, shareholders and entities
under common control. The transactions with affiliated companies are summarized
in the following table:
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Income
Transmission costs (a) .......... $ 1,656 $ 1,308 $ --
Management fee (b) .............. 340 -- --
Dividend (c) .................... 2,573 1,448 --
Licensing and consulting fees (d) 2,270 956 --
Interest income (e) ............. -- -- 11,916
-------- -------- --------
$ 6,839 $ 3,712 $ 11,916
======== ======== ========
Costs
Channel of programming costs (f) $136,000 $133,047 $ --
Transmission costs (g) .......... 28,784 23,854 --
Licensing fees (h) .............. -- 2,671 --
Directors' emoluments (i) ....... 1,716 -- --
-------- -------- --------
$166,500 $159,572 $ --
======== ======== ========
</TABLE>
- ----------
(a) Certain costs related to the lease and maintenance of signal distribution
are charged on by the Company to one of its affiliated companies.
(b) Management fee charged by the company to UBC.
(c) Dividends received from M-Net/SuperSport.
(d) Licensing and consulting fees charged to affiliated companies.
(e) Interest income relates to a loan from the Company to one of the
subsidiaries of NetHold. Interest income on the loan has been included in
equity results in joint ventures.
(f) The Company purchases the right to transmit certain channels and programs
from affiliated companies.
(g) The Company is charged by an affiliate for services relating to the lease
and maintenance of signal distribution equipment.
(h) Licensing fees are charged by an affiliated company for the use of certain
subscriber technology and software.
(i) Total remuneration of the directors. A listing of the members of the board
of directors is shown on page 58 of this annual report.
F-22
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March 31,
----------------------------
1999 1998
(thousands) (thousands)
----------- -----------
20. Related party transactions (continued)
The balances of advances, deposits, receivables and payables between the
Company and affiliates are:
<S> <C> <C>
Receivables
MIH Holdings Limited ..................... $ 6,993 $ 8,657
OpenTV (1999: subsidiary) ................ -- 323
Computicket .............................. -- 434
UBC (1999: joint venture) ................ -- 3,872
Myriad International Holdings BV ......... -- 1,498
M-Web Holdings Limited ................... 1,786 --
Orbicom (Proprietary) Limited ............ 5,442 --
------- -------
$14,221 $14,784
======= =======
Payables
M-Web Holdings Limited ................... $ -- $ 2,223
M-Cell Limited ........................... -- 237
M-Net/SuperSport ......................... 16,298 23,128
Orbicom (Proprietary) Limited ............ -- 216
------- -------
$16,298 $25,804
======= =======
</TABLE>
F-23
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
21. Segment and geographic information
The Company has determined that its reportable segments are those that are
based on the Company's method of internal reporting, which disaggregates its
businesses by service/product and by geography. The Company's reportable
business segments are management of television platforms and technology. The
business segment relating to the management of television platforms is conducted
in Africa and the Middle East, the Mediterranean and Thailand. The technology
business segment consists of Irdeto, based in the Netherlands, and the Company's
joint venture interest in OpenTV (subsidiary March 31, 1999) and TV/Com, based
in the United States of America (United States). The Company's interests in
OpenTV and the Middle East are accounted for by the equity method and are,
therefore, included in equity results in joint ventures below.
The accounting policies of the segments are identical to the accounting
policies described in "Summary of Significant Accounting Policies".
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1999 Management of
television platforms Technology
----------------------------------- ----------
Africa Consoli-
and the Mediter- Segmental Reconciling dated
Middle East ranean Thailand total Corporate items total
----------- ------- -------- ---------- --------- --------- ----------- --------
(thousands) (thousands) (thousands) (thousands) (thousands) (thousands) (thousands) (thousands)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
SALES
External sales ............. $ 409,203 $ 136,985 $ -- $ 63,911 $ 610,099 $ -- $ -- $ 610,099
Inter-segment sales ........ -- 551 -- 9,355 9,906 -- (9,906) --
--------- --------- ---------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Total revenue .............. $ 409,203 $ 137,536 $ -- $ 73,266 $ 620,005 $ (1,196) $ (9,906) $ 610,099
========= ========= ========== ========= ========= ========= ========= =========
RESULTS
Operating loss ............. $ (7,661) $ (19,290) $ -- $ (4,947) $ (31,898) $ (11,917) $ -- $ (43,815)
Depreciation and
amortization(c) .......... (28,808) (18,667) -- (3,690) (51,166) (224) -- (51,390)
Amortization of program
and film rights .......... -- (32,237) -- -- (32,237) -- -- (32,237)
Operating loss is stated
before the following items:
Exchange gains/(losses) .... 1,339 3,359 -- (1,516) 3,182 (3,738) -- (556)
Dividend income ............ 2,573 -- -- -- 2,573 -- -- 2,573
Interest expense ........... (40,333) (15,070) -- (3,064) (58,467) (15,501) (52,545)(a) (21,423)
Interest income ............ 4,129 832 -- 4,181 9,141 53,732 (52,545)(a) 10,328
Equity results in associates (2,053) -- -- -- (2,053) -- -- (2,053)
Equity results in
joint ventures ........... (1,885) -- (32,694) (6,640) (41,219) -- -- (41,219)
Income taxation/(benefit) .. 520 1,694 -- (2,155) 59 250 -- 309
OTHER INFORMATION
Segment assets ............. 362,843 213,288 107,616 137,376 821,123 712,663 (757,559)(b) 776,227
Investments in equity
companies ................ 18,218 -- 50,706 -- 68,924 -- -- 68,924
Other investments at cost .. 1,190 -- -- -- 1,190 -- -- 1,190
Segment liabilities ........ 529,697 324,936 -- 71,240 925,873 430,706 (757,559)(b) 599,020
Capital expenditure ........ 5,091 4,495 -- 1,766 11,352 -- -- 11,352
</TABLE>
- ----------
(a) Represents interest income and expenses on loans between group companies
in different segments and corporate that eliminate on consolidation.
(b) Represents adjustments to the assets and liabilities for the segments
relating to inter-group loans which eliminate on consolidation.
(c) Excludes amortization of program and film rights included in cost of
providing services and amortization of goodwill on equity method
investments included in equity results in joint ventures and equity
results in associates.
F-24
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
21. Segment and geographic information (continued)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 Management of
television platforms Technology
------------------------ ----------
Africa Consoli-
and the Mediter- Segmental Reconciling dated
Middle East ranean total Corporate items total
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
(thousands) (thousands) (thousands) (thousands) (thousands) (thousands) (thousands)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
SALES
External sales .............. $ 382,308 $ 106,403 $ 12,781 $ 501,492 $ -- $ -- $ 501,492
Inter-segment sales ......... -- -- 4,719 4,719 -- (4,719) --
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Total revenue ............... $ 382,308 $ 106,403 $ 17,500 $ 506,211 $ -- $ (4,719) $ 501,492
========= ========= ========= ========= ========= ========= =========
RESULTS
Operating loss .............. $ (4,901) $ (26,626) $ (3,035) $ (34,562) $ (8,165) $ -- $ (42,727)
Depreciation and
amortization (c) .......... (36,994) (18,243) (2,711) (57,948) (62) -- (58,010)
Amortization of program
and film rights ........... -- (32,599) -- (32,599) -- -- (32,599)
Operating loss is stated
before the following items:
Exchange (losses)/gains ..... (1,464) (8,042) 672 (8,834) 2,785 -- (6,049)
Dividend income ............. -- -- -- -- 3,177 -- 3,177
Interest expense ............ (46,890) (10,814) (555) (58,259) (1,825) 46,923(a) (13,161)
Gain on disposal of
investments ............... -- -- -- -- 2,647 -- 2,647
Interest income ............. 3,078 474 1,647 5,199 49,001 (46,302)(a) 7,898
Equity results in associates (2,783) -- -- (2,783) -- -- (2,783)
Equity results in joint
ventures .................... (556) -- (4,535) (5,091) -- -- (5,091)
Income taxation ............. -- (1,658) (2,777) (4,435) (3,135) -- (7,570)
OTHER INFORMATION
Segment assets .............. 290,671 164,561 101,806 557,038 539,631 (450,614)(b) 646,055
Investments in equity
companies ................... 13,857 -- 6,239 20,096 -- -- 20,096
Other investments at cost ... 3,080 -- 1,004 4,084 52,840 -- 56,924
Segment liabilities ......... 426,907 228,322 52,478 707,707 135,389 (450,614)(b) 392,482
Capital expenditure ......... 23,356 7,085 1,223 31,664 -- -- 31,664
</TABLE>
- ----------
(a) Represents interest income and expenses on loans between group companies
in different segments and corporate that eliminate on consolidation.
(b) Represents adjustments to the assets and liabilities for the segments
relating to intergroup loans which eliminate on consolidation.
(c) Excludes amortization of program and film rights included in cost of
providing services and amortization of goodwill on equity method
investments included in equity results in joint ventures.
F-25
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
22. Commitments and contingencies
(a) Loans
MultiChoice Africa is required to lend a joint venture an amount not
exceeding $1.5 million which represents 20% of a banking facility available to
fund the acquisition of decoders.
(b) Program and film rights and decoders
At March 31, 1999, the Company had entered into contracts for the purchase
of program, film and related rights and decoders. The Company's commitments in
respect of these contracts amount to $34.4 million (1998: $16.3 million) and $20
million (1998: $12.6 million), respectively.
(c) Capital expenditure
The Company had capital expenditure commitments as at March 31, 1999 and
1998 of $3.3 million and $17.5 million, respectively.
(d) Lines of credit
At March 31, 1999 the Company had overdraft borrowing facilities of $56
million and guarantee line facilities of $17.5 million in an aggregate with
various financial institutions.
(e) Loss insurance
The Company does not generally carry risk of loss insurance for injury to
others, damage to the property of others, or interruption of its business
operations.
(f) Guarantees
At March 31, 1999 the Company had guarantees of $10.3 million in respect
of office and line rental contracts. No losses are expected to arise from these
arrangements.
At March 31, 1999 the Company had various performance guarantees issued on
behalf of its affiliates. These guarantees relate to obligations arising out of
license agreements, the settlement of which there is currently no limit, is
determined at the time of non-performance.
(g) Pledges and restrictions
At March 31, 1999 the Company pledged tangible fixed assets of $0.2
million, receivables of $5.4 million and cash and cash equivalents of $3.8
million as security for certain lines of credit referred to in (d) above.
23. Foreign currency management
The currencies of the countries in which the Company operates are also the
functional currencies. For these operations, all gains and losses from foreign
currency transactions are included in current results. The cumulative
translation effects for operations using functional currencies other than the US
dollar are included in the foreign currency translation adjustment in
shareholders' equity.
The Company uses foreign currency forward exchange contracts, which
typically expire within one year, to hedge payments of foreign currencies
related to the purchase of goods and services in currencies other than the
functional currency. Realized gains and losses on these contracts are recognized
in the same period as the hedged transactions. The Company had foreign exchange
forward contracts on hand at March 31, 1999 hedging South African rand and Greek
drachmae against the US dollar. The Company does not currently hold or issue
derivative financial instruments for trading purposes.
The contractual amounts, exchange rates and settlement dates of the
outstanding contracts at March 31, 1999 are set out below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Contractual Average
amounts exchange
(thousands) rates Settlement dates
----------- ----- ----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Greek drachmae/US dollar ......... $ 2,000 320.34 April 26, 1999 to May 25, 1999
South African rand/US dollar ..... 67,385 6.31 April 6, 1999 to June 1, 2000
</TABLE>
F-26
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
24. Fair value of financial instruments
The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents approximates fair value
due to the short maturities of these instruments. The value of long-term debt is
estimated using discounted cash flows based on the Company's incremental
borrowing rates for similar types of borrowings. The value of forward exchange
contracts is based on quoted market prices. A comparison of the carrying value
and fair value of these instruments is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March 31, 1999 March 31, 1998
---------------------------- ---------------------------
Carrying Carrying
value Fair value value Fair value
(thousands) (thousands) (thousands) (thousands)
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents ... $ 56,099 $ 56,099 $153,412 $153,412
Receivables ................. 93,007 93,007 81,227 81,227
Marketable securities ....... 1,190 1,190 56,924 104,817
Liabilities:
Payables and provisions ..... 232,867 232,867 250,613 250,613
Short-term borrowings ....... 117,486 117,486 59,199 59,199
Long-term debt .............. 248,547 248,547 79,395 79,395
Off-balance-sheet instruments
Forward exchange contracts .. 70,885 67,457 47,576 45,999
</TABLE>
25. Pension Funds
The Company has defined contribution plans covering employees of most of
its subsidiaries. The Company's contributions under these plans are based
primarily on the performance of the business units and employee compensation.
Total expense amounted to $3.7 million for 1999 (1998: $2.4 million).
26. Post-retirement benefits
MultiChoice Africa provides post-retirement benefits by way of medical aid
contributions. At March 31, 1999 and 1998 the provision for benefits is $2.7
million and $3.8 million, respectively. During the year ended March 31, 1998 an
agreement was reached with employees of MultiChoice Africa to terminate the
post-retirement medical aid benefits plan in exchange for an increase of
MultiChoice Africa's annual contributions to the retirement benefit fund. The
provision is released to operating results to match the additional contributions
to the retirement benefit plan.
F-27
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March 31,
---------------------------
1999 1998
(thousands) (thousands)
----------- -----------
27. Acquisition of subsidiaries, net of cash acquired
<S> <C> <C>
Fair value of tangible assets:
Fixed assets ................................... $ (7,094) $(23,451)
Investments and loans .......................... -- (19,638)
Current assets ................................. (13,912) (25,127)
Current liabilities ............................ 16,752 40,865
Long-term liabilities .......................... -- 16,928
Minority interest .............................. 175 --
-------- --------
(4,079) (10,423)
-------- --------
Carrying value of equity investment ............ 107 --
Goodwill ....................................... (47,810) (31,223)
-------- --------
Consideration .................................. (51,782) (41,646)
-------- --------
Amounts owing in respect of investments acquired 37,282 --
Cash acquired .................................. 1,255 7,735
-------- --------
Net cash paid for acquisitions ................. $(13,245) $(33,911)
======== ========
</TABLE>
28. Share capital
On March 23, 1999 in anticipation of a public offering of securities by
the Company, shareholders authorized an amendment to the Company's Articles of
Association, whereby the Company's 22,789 ordinary shares with a par value of $1
each converted into 7,447,681 Class A Ordinary Shares with no par value and
30,787,319 Class B Ordinary Shares with no par value. The two classes of shares
generally have the same rights, except that holders of Class B Ordinary Shares
are entitled to three votes per share and holders of Class A Ordinary Shares are
entitled to one vote per share. The conversion was accounted for as a stock
split; therefore, all shareholders' equity and share data in these financial
statements have been retroactively restated to reflect the conversion.
Shareholders authorized a total of 167,778,303 Ordinary Shares divided into
103,468,878 Class A Ordinary Shares, 55,920,509 Class B Ordinary Shares and
8,388,916 Preference Shares with no par value.
During April 1999, the Company issued 10,435,000 Class A Ordinary Shares
in an initial public offering for net proceeds of $174.7 million. Simultaneously
with the completion of the public offering, the $46.2 million note payable to
Thomson converted into 2,581,775 Class A Ordinary Shares.
29. Differences between IAS and United States Generally Accepted Accounting
Principles
The Company's consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance
with IAS, which differ in certain respects from accounting principles generally
accepted in the United States (US GAAP).
The only significant difference which affects the Company's results and
shareholders' equity relates to the accounting for its investment in UBC. Under
IAS the investment in UBC is carried at cost through June 30, 1998. In June 1998
the Company increased its shareholding in UBC to approximately 26.1% and, as a
result, exercises significant influence in UBC. Under IAS the Company thereafter
applies the equity method of accounting for UBC. US GAAP requires a retroactive
adjustment of financial statements for an investee that was previously accounted
for on a basis other than the equity method when that investee becomes qualified
for use of the equity method. The adjustment therefore reflects the effect of
applying the equity method to the investment in UBC determined under US GAAP.
The initial investment in UBC occurred in March 1997, and the effect on the year
ended March 31, 1997 is not material.
F-28
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year ended March 31,
------------------------------
1999 1998
(thousands) (thousands)
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
I Reconciliation of net loss and shareholders' equity
(in thousands, except per share data):
Net loss under IAS .................................. $ (68,839) $ (63,802)
US GAAP adjustment:
Equity accounting for UBC ........................... (5,193) (15,482)
------------ ------------
Net loss under US GAAP .............................. $ (74,032) $ (79,284)
============ ============
Weighted average common shares outstanding .......... 38,235,000 38,235,000
============ ============
Net loss per share under US GAAP .................... $ (1.94) $ (2.07)
============ ============
Net loss under US GAAP consists of:
Loss from continuing operations ..................... $ (70,203) $ (75,348)
Discontinued operations ............................. (3,829) (3,936)
------------ ------------
Net loss ............................................ $ (74,032) $ (79,284)
============ ============
Per share amounts:
Continuing operations ............................. $ (1.84) $ (1.97)
Discontinued operations ........................... (0.10) (0.10)
------------ ------------
Net loss per share under US GAAP .................... $ (1.94) $ (2.07)
============ ============
Reconciliation of shareholders' equity:
Total shareholders' equity under IAS ................ $ 176,683 $ 253,573
US GAAP adjustment:
Equity accounting for UBC ........................... (29,930) (24,883)
------------ ------------
Total shareholders' equity under US GAAP ............ $ 146,753 $ 228,690
============ ============
</TABLE>
II Additional disclosure requirements
(a) Certain risks and concentrations
The Company is exposed to certain concentrations of credit risk relating
to its cash and current investments. The Company places its cash and current
investments with high-quality institutions. The Company's policy is designed to
limit exposure with any one institution and to invest its excess cash in
low-risk investment accounts. The Company has not experienced any losses on such
accounts. As of March 31, 1999 cash and current investments were held with
numerous financial institutions.
The Company's digital programming is or will be transmitted to customers
through different satellites around the world, and in certain regions its
terrestrial analog signal is also transmitted to regional broadcast points
through satellites. In addition, the Company receives a significant amount of
its programming through satellites. Satellites are subject to significant risks
that may prevent or impair commercial operations. Although the Company has not
experienced any significant disruption of its transmissions, the operation of
satellites is beyond the control of the Company. Disruption of the transmissions
of satellites could have a material adverse effect on the Company.
F-29
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
II Additional disclosure requirements (continued)
(b) Stock-based compensation
Through March 31, 1999 MIH management and employees participate in the
Stock Option Plan (the Plan) of the Company's parent MIH Holdings Limited
(MIHH). Under the Plan, MIHH may grant options to its employees for up to 26.4
million shares of MIHH's common stock. Stock options may be granted with an
exercise price not less than 100% of the market value of the options at the time
of the grant. One third of the options generally vest at the anniversary of each
of the third, fourth and fifth year after the grant date of the stock options
and expire after ten years. Unvested shares are subject to cancellation upon
expiration or termination of employment.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year ended March 31,
----------------------------------------------------
1999 1998
------------------------- ----------------------
Weighted Weighted
average average
exercise price exercise price
Shares (Rand) Shares (Rand)
--------- ----- ------- -----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Outstanding at April 1, 1998 and 1997 3,514,976 14.95 734,749 10.40
Granted ............................. 2,467,690 11.96 3,082,000 15.79
Exercised ........................... (393,523) 13.56 (150,856) 10.39
Forfeited ........................... (156,973) 16.15 (150,917) 14.47
--------- ----- ------- -----
Outstanding at March 31,1999 and 1998 5,432,170 14.01 3,514,976 14.95
========= ===== ========= =====
</TABLE>
The following table summarizes information about the stock options
outstanding at March 31, 1999:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Range of Outstanding Weighted Exercisable Weighted
exercise as of Remaining average as of average
price March 31, contractual life exercise price March 31, exercise price
(Rand) 1999 (years) (Rand) 1999 (Rand)
-------- ---------- ---------------- -------------- --------- --------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
5.60 - 10.00 500,526 7.93 8.58 146,106 6.63
10.01 - 15.00 2,990,265 9.02 12.37 255,671 12.50
15.01 - 22.50 1,991,379 8.29 16.39
</TABLE>
For purposes of US GAAP, the Company applies Accounting Principles Board
(APB) Opinion 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees," and related
interpretations in accounting for its plans. Accordingly, no compensation cost
has been recognized for its stock option plan. Had compensation cost for the
Company's stock option plan been determined based on the fair value at the grant
dates for awards under those plans consistent with the method of SFAS No. 123,
"Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation," the Company's net loss and loss per
share would have been increased to the pro forma amounts indicated below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year ended Year ended
March 31, 1999 March 31, 1998
-------------- --------------
(in thousands except for per share data)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net loss As reported $ (68,839) $ (63,802)
Pro forma (70,079) (64,678)
Net loss per share As reported (1.80) (1.67)
Pro forma (1,83) (1.69)
</TABLE>
The weighted average grant date fair value of options granted during
fiscal 1999 was R6.19. The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the
date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following
weighted-average assumptions used for grants during fiscal 1999, respectively:
dividend yield of 0%; expected volatility of 30%; an expected risk-free interest
rate of 14.9% and 12.7%, for 1998 and 1999, respectively; and an expected life
of six years.
On March 25, 1999, the Company established the MIH Limited Share Scheme
under which it may award options for no more than 10% of the total number of
Ordinary Shares.
F-30
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
II Additional disclosure requirements (continued)
(c) Restricted net assets
The net assets of certain of MIH Limited's subsidiaries and associates are
subject to regulatory restrictions with regard to the transfer of such assets to
MIH Limited in the form of loans, advances or cash dividends without the consent
of regulatory authorities. The restrictions primarily relate to foreign exchange
control regulations in South Africa, which prescribe that South African
residents and companies are not permitted to export capital from South Africa or
to hold foreign currency without the approval of the South African Reserve Bank.
These exchange control regulations effectively prevent MIH Limited from
receiving distributions from its South African subsidiaries, without regulatory
approval. The total net assets of subsidiaries subject to such restriction as of
March 31, 1999, amounts to approximately $70.3 million (1998: $120.5 million).
The following are the condensed balance sheets and statements of
operations and cash flow for MIH Limited as of March 31, 1999 and 1998 and the
years then ended. Investments in subsidiaries, associated and joint venture
companies are accounted for using the equity method of accounting.
Balance sheets
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March 31,
----------------------------
1999 1998
(thousands) (thousands)
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
ASSETS
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents ..................... $ 5,669 $ 89,226
Other receivables ............................. 2,207 --
Net amounts owing by related parties ............ 4,525 5,370
--------- ---------
12,401 94,596
Non-current assets
Long-term investments ......................... 299,801 225,400
--------- ---------
Total assets ............................. $ 312,202 $ 319,996
========= =========
LIABILITIES
Current liabilities
Current portion of long-term debt ............. $ 33,012 $ 23,984
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 46,880 10,568
Amounts owing to related parties .............. 55,627 --
Provisions ...................................... -- 31,871
--------- ---------
Total liabilities ........................ 135,519 66,423
--------- ---------
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Share capital ................................... 589,552 589,552
Accumulated loss ................................ (382,386) (313,547)
Foreign currency translation adjustment ......... (30,483) (22,432)
--------- ---------
Total shareholders' equity .............. 176,683 253,573
--------- ---------
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $ 312,202 $ 319,996
========= =========
</TABLE>
F-31
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year ended March 31,
---------------------------
1999 1998
(thousands) (thousands)
----------- -----------
II Additional disclosure requirements (continued)
<S> <C> <C>
Statements of operations
General and administrative expenses ......................... $ (2,850) $ (6,587)
Financial results, net ...................................... (4,181) 8,311
Equity results in associates, joint ventures and subsidiaries (92,901) (59,812)
Profit on sale of joint venture ............................. 31,093 --
Income taxation ............................................. -- (5,714)
-------- --------
Net loss for the year ....................................... $(68,839) $(63,802)
======== ========
Statements of cash flow
Net cash used in operating activities ....................... $ (2,850) $(20,528)
-------- --------
Disposal of investments ..................................... -- 269,222
Acquisition of associates and subsidiaries .................. (76,214) (103,474)
-------- --------
Net cash used in investing activities ....................... (76,214) (165,748)
-------- --------
Finance (cost)/income ....................................... (4,181) 2,488
Dividends paid .............................................. -- (51,816)
Bank overdrafts repaid ...................................... -- (12,720)
-------- --------
Net cash used in financing activities ....................... (4,181) (62,048)
-------- --------
Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents ........ (83,245) 83,172
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year .............. 89,226 6,728
Translation adjustment on cash and cash equivalents ......... (312) (674)
-------- --------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year .................... $ 5,669 $ 89,226
======== ========
</TABLE>
F-32
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
II Additional disclosure requirements (continued)
(d) Significant associates: summarized financial information
The following are the summarized balance sheets and statements of
operations for M-Net/SuperSport, as derived from its audited financial
statements and converted to US dollars.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
M-Net/SuperSport
--------------------------
March 31,
--------------------------
1999 1998
(thousands) (thousands)
----------- ----------
<S> <C> <C>
Current assets .............................................. $ 55,419 $157,300
Non-current assets .......................................... 70,815 74,325)
-------- --------
Total assets ................................................ 126,233 (231,625)
-------- --------
Current liabilities ......................................... 43,339 137,107
Non-current liabilities ..................................... 5,944 29,586
-------- --------
Total liabilities ........................................... 49,283 166,693
-------- --------
Total shareholders' equity .................................. 76,951 64,932
-------- --------
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity .................. $126,233 $231,625
======== ========
Year ended March 31,
--------------------------
1999 1998
(thousands) (thousands)
----------- -----------
Net sales ................................................... $231,060 $216,971
-------- --------
Operating profit ............................................ 23,596 28,053
Net profit .................................................. 11,946 10,446
</TABLE>
(e) Comprehensive income
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year ended March 31,
-------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997
-------- -------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net (loss)/profit ..................... $(68,839) $(63,802) $409,164
Foreign currency translation adjustment (8,051) (32,461) 17,958
-------- -------- --------
Comprehensive (loss)/profit ........... $(76,890) $(96,263) $427,122
======== ======== ========
</TABLE>
F-33
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
II Additional disclosure requirements (continued)
(f) Recently issued accounting standards
SFAS No.133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging
Activities" is effective for fiscal years beginning after June 15, 1999. It will
be effective for the Company's financial statements for the year ended March 31,
2001 unless the required implementation date is postponed by the FSAB. This
statement establishes accounting and reporting standards for derivative
instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other
contracts (collectively referred to as derivatives), and for hedging activities.
It requires that an entity recognize all derivatives as either assets or
liabilities in the statement of financial position and measure those instruments
at fair value. If certain conditions are met, a derivative may be specifically
designated as (a) a hedge of the exposure to changes in the fair value of a
recognized asset or liability or an unrecognized firm commitment, (b) a hedge of
the exposure to variable cash flows of a forecasted transaction, or (c) a hedge
of the foreign currency exposure of a net investment in a foreign operation, an
unrecognized firm commitment, an available-for-sale security, or a
foreign-currency-denominated forecasted transaction. Management is currently
assessing the impact of adopting this statement on its financial statements.
In July of 1997 the International Accounting Standards Committee (IASC)
issued International Accounting Standard (IAS) 1 (revised) "Disclosure of
Accounting Policies". IAS 1 will be effective for the Company's financial
statements for the year ending March 31, 2000. IAS 1 defines overall
considerations for financial statements and prescribes the minimum structure and
content of four basic financial statements (Balance sheet, Income statement,
Cash flow statement, and Statement showing changes in equity), including certain
information required on the financial statements. IAS 1 also addresses various
issues in disclosures in financial statements. The Company believes that it has
complied with the main provisions of this standard and does not believe that
this standard will have a significant influence on the Company's financial
statements.
The IAS has issued IAS 17 (revised 1997), "Leases", which supersedes IAS
17, "Accounting for Leases" and is operative for financial statements covering
periods beginning on or after January 1, 1999. The changes from the original IAS
17 do not fundamentally alter the accounting treatments. The Company does not
expect a material impact on its financial statements as a result of adopting IAS
17 (revised 1997).
In January 1998 the IASC issued IAS 19 (revised 1998) "Employee Benefits",
which supersedes IAS 19 "Retirement Benefit Costs". It will be effective for the
Company's financial statements for the year ending March 31, 2000. The revised
standard applies a uniform accounting model to pension benefits and other
short-term employee benefits such as compensated absences, as well as other
post-employment benefits and termination benefits. It also requires disclosure
of equity compensation benefits. IAS 19 (revised 1998) also changes certain key
provisions with respect to defined benefit plans. For example, all companies
must use the projected unit credit method to measure their pension expense and
pension obligation. The Company is currently assessing the impact that this
standard may have on the Company's financial statements.
In June of 1998 the IASC issued IAS 35 "Discontinuing Operations". IAS 35
will be effective for the Company's financial statements for the year ending
March 31, 2000. IAS 35 is a presentation and disclosure standard. It requires
that enterprises follow the recognition and measurement principles in other IAS
standards. The standard defines the situations in which disclosures must be made
by the enterprise for a discontinuing operation. Appendices to IAS 35 also
provide (a) illustrative disclosure and (b) guidance on how prior period
information should be restated to conform to the presentation requirement of IAS
35. The Company believes that it has complied with the provisions of this
standard and does not believe that this standard will have a significant
influence on the Company's financial statements.
In June of 1998 the IASC issued IAS 36 "Impairment of Assets". IAS 36 will
be effective for the Company's financial statements for the year ending March
31, 2001. IAS 36 establishes the procedures that an enterprise should apply to
ensure that its assets are not overstated in the financial statements. It also
prescribes the method an enterprise should use to assess the amount to be
recovered from an asset and the timing when an enterprise should account for an
impairment loss. Under IAS 36, an impairment loss should be recognized whenever
the recoverable amount of an asset is less than its carrying amount. The Company
is currently assessing the impact that this standard may have on its financial
statements.
F-34
<PAGE>
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
To the directors and shareholders of MIH Limited
We have audited the accompanying combined balance sheet of the Acquired
MIH Businesses (predecessor to MIH Limited) as of March 31, 1997 and the related
combined statement of operations and cash flow and changes in net deficit for
the year ended March 31, 1997. These combined financial statements are the
responsibility of the company's management. Our responsibility is to express an
opinion on these combined financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards in the Republic of South Africa, which are substantially the same as
those followed in the United States of America. Those standards require that we
plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the
combined 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
audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly,
in all material respects, the combined financial position of the Acquired MIH
Businesses (predecessor to MIH Limited) as of March 31, 1997 and the combined
results of their operations and cash flow for each of the two years in the
period ended March 31, 1997, in conformity with International Accounting
Standards. International Accounting Standards vary in certain significant
respects from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of
America. The application of the latter had no material effect on the
determination of the combined results for the year ended March 31, 1997 and the
net deficit as of March 31, 1997. The additional disclosure requirements are
summarized in Note 24 to the combined financial statements.
Coopers & Lybrand
Chartered Accountants (SA)
Registered Accountants and Auditors
Johannesburg
Republic of South Africa
June 15, 1997
F-35
<PAGE>
Acquired MIH Businesses (Predecessor to MIH Limited)
Combined Balance Sheet
March 31, 1997
(In thousands of US dollars)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Notes 1997
--------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
ASSETS
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents ........................ $ 53,908
Accounts receivable, net ......................... 4 22,331
Other receivables ................................ 5 21,292
Program and film rights .......................... 10 32,599
Amounts owing by related parties ................. 17 10,247
Inventories, net ................................. 6 12,781
---------
Total current assets ........................... 153,158
---------
Non-Current Assets
Tangible fixed assets, net ....................... 8 87,449
Long-term investments ............................ 9 23,672
Program and film rights .......................... 10 22,874
---------
Total non-current assets ......................... 133,995
---------
TOTAL ASSETS ................................... $ 287,153
=========
LIABILITIES
Current Liabilities
Bank overdrafts .................................. $ 753
Current portion of long-term debt ................ 13 15,476
Current portion of program and film rights ....... 13 7,251
Accounts payable ................................. 42,540
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities ... 11 79,673
Amounts owing to related parties ................. 17 83,817
Provisions ....................................... 12 16,865
---------
Total current liabilities ...................... 246,375
---------
Non-Current Liabilities
Long-term debt ................................... 13 60,610
Program and film rights .......................... 13 30,758
---------
Total non-current liabilities .................. 91,368
---------
TOTAL LIABILITIES .............................. 337,743
---------
Commitments and contingencies .................... 19 --
NET DEFICIT .................................... (50,590)
---------
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND NET DEFICIT .............. $ 287,153
=========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these combined financial
statements.
F-36
<PAGE>
Acquired MIH Businesses (Predecessor to MIH Limited)
Combined Statement of Operations
for the year ended March 31, 1997
(In thousands of US dollars)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Notes 1997
--------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
Net revenues ............................................ 14 $ 391,898
Operating expenses:
Cost of providing services ............................ (259,391)
Selling, general and administrative ................... (140,446)
Depreciation and amortization ......................... (16,191)
---------
Total operating expenses ................................ (416,028)
---------
Operating loss .......................................... (24,130)
Financial results, net .................................. 15 (5,267)
Equity results in joint ventures ........................ 1,144
Equity results in associates ............................ 2,644
---------
Loss before taxation .................................... (25,609)
---------
Income taxation ......................................... 16 (1,158)
---------
Loss after taxation ..................................... (26,767)
Minority interest ....................................... 738
---------
Net loss .............................................. $ (26,029)
=========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these combined financial
statements.
F-37
<PAGE>
Acquired MIH Businesses (Predecessor to MIH Limited)
Combined Statement of Cash Flow
for the year ended March 31, 1997
(In thousands of US dollars)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997
--------
<S> <C>
Cash flows from operating activities
Operating loss $(24,130)
Adjustments for:
Depreciation and amortization ..................................... 16,191
Amortization of program and film rights ........................... 18,796
Taxation refunded ................................................. 3,863
Loss on sale of tangible fixed assets ............................. 5,223
Increase in receivables ........................................... 3,934
Payments for program and film rights .............................. (32,747)
Net increase in amounts owing to related parties .................. 27,139
Increase in inventories ........................................... (964)
Increase in payables .............................................. 53,509
Decrease in current portion of long-term debt to related parties .. (2,268)
--------
Net cash from operating activities .............................. 68,546
--------
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchase of tangible fixed assets ................................... (17,649)
Proceeds on sale of tangible fixed assets ........................... 4,227
Dividends received from associates .................................. 1,490
Investments acquired ................................................ (658)
Increase in unsecured loan .......................................... (2,050)
--------
Net cash used in investing activities ........................... (14,640)
--------
Cash flows from financing activities
Finance costs ....................................................... (5,267)
Funds raised from outside shareholders .............................. 738
Long-term debt raised ............................................... 27,174
Long-term debt repaid from related party ............................ (11,272)
Capital leases repaid ............................................... (18,422)
Bank overdrafts repaid .............................................. (6,219)
--------
Net cash used in financing activities ........................... (13,268)
--------
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents ........................... 40,638
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year .............. 15,063
Translation adjustment on cash and cash equivalents ................. (1,793)
--------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year ........................ $ 53,908
========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these combined financial
statements.
F-38
<PAGE>
Acquired MIH Businesses (predecessor to MIH Limited)
Combined Statement of Changes in Net Deficit
for the year ended March 31, 1997
(in thousands of US dollars)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Myriad Africa NetMed Total
(thousands) (thousands) (thousands)
----------- ----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Share capital
At March 31, 1997 ........................ 48 26 74
----------- ----------- -----------
Share premium
At March 31, 1997 ........................ 24,869 -- 24,869
----------- ----------- -----------
Accumulated loss
At March 31, 1996 ........................ 9,482 (65,390) (55,908)
Loss for the year ........................ (8,175) (20,914) (29,089)
----------- ----------- -----------
March 31, 1997 ........................... $ (1,307) $ (86,304) $ (84,997)
----------- ----------- -----------
Foreign currency translation adjustment
At March 31, 1996 ........................ (1,801) 1,266 (535)
Translation adjustment ................... 319 7,779 8,098
----------- ----------- -----------
March 31, 1997 ........................... $ (1,482) $ 9,045 $ 7,563
----------- ----------- -----------
Total combined net deficit
At March 31, 1996 ........................ 32,598 (64,098) (31,500)
Net loss ................................. (8,175) (20,914) (29,089)
Translation adjustment ................... 319 7,779 8,098
----------- ----------- -----------
March 31, 1997 ........................... $ 24,742 $ (77,233) $ (52,491)
----------- ----------- -----------
Equity investment in Irdeto .............. 1,901
----------- ----------- -----------
Combined net deficit ..................... $ (50,590)
=========== =========== ===========
</TABLE>
Difference between the total net loss for the years ended March 31, 1997 and the
net loss recorded in the statements of operations amounting to $3,060, and the
difference between the total net deficit at March 31, 1997 and the net deficit
in the combined balance sheet amounting to $1,901 is attributable to Irdeto, an
equity investment which is included in the Acquired MIH Businesses (note 3(a)).
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these combined financial
statements.
F-39
<PAGE>
Acquired MIH Business (Predecessor to MIH Limited)
Notes to the Combined Financial Statements
1. Description of business and basis of presentation
These combined financial statements include the accounts of Myriad Africa
B.V. ("Myriad Africa"), NetMed B.V. ("NetMed"), and equity investments in
MultiChoice Middle East Holdings Inc. ("MultiChoice Middle East"), Irdeto B.V.
("Irdeto") and their subsidiaries (collectively referred to as the "Acquired MIH
Businesses"). The Acquired MIH Businesses are the predecessor to MIH Limited
("MIH") and subsidiaries. Historically, no combined financial statements have
been prepared for the Acquired MIH Businesses. The reason for the presentation
of the combined financial statements of the Acquired MIH Businesses is to
provide financial statements for the year ended March 31, 1997 that are
comparable to the MIH consolidated financial statements for the year ended March
31, 1998 which include MIH and the Acquired MIH Businesses after the Canal+
transaction described in Note 2.
The principal activities of the Acquired MIH Businesses are the provision
of pay-television and subscriber management services ("pay-television services")
and the development of pay-television technology. These activities are conducted
primarily in Africa, Greece, Cyprus, the Middle East and in the Netherlands.
2. Canal+ transaction
Until March 31, 1997, the Acquired MIH Businesses were collectively part
of the Network Holdings S.A. Group ("NetHold"), a joint venture between MIH and
Compagnie Richemont A.G. ("Richemont"). The principal activities of NetHold
included pay-television services operations through its subsidiaries and equity
investments in Africa, Greece, Cyprus, the Middle East, Benelux, Italy and
Scandinavia. Additionally, NetHold held 100% of the share capital of Irdeto, a
decoder technology company. Effective March 31, 1997, MIH sold its interest in
NetHold to Canal+ in exchange for a 5% share in Canal+ and NetHold's
pay-television services businesses in Greece and Cyprus (NetMed), Africa (Myriad
Africa) and the Middle East (MultiChoice Middle East) and subsequently acquired
a 49% share in Irdeto.
3. Principal accounting policies and reporting currency
The combined financial statements are based on International Accounting
Standards ("IAS") issued by the International Accounting Standards Committee and
have been prepared on the historical cost basis.
The Acquired MIH Businesses have adopted the US dollar as their reporting
currency. Notwithstanding the US dollar reporting currency, the Acquired MIH
Businesses measure separately the transactions of each of their material
operations using the particular currency of the primary economic environment in
which the operation conducts its business (its functional currency).
The financial statements have been translated from functional currencies
to the reporting currency by translating assets and liabilities, both monetary
and non-monetary, and including goodwill and other intangible assets which arise
as a result of equity investments in entities, at the closing rate at each
balance sheet date. Income and expense items are translated at exchange rates at
the dates of the transactions or average rates. All resulting exchange
differences are included in equity.
Preparation of the combined financial statements in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") requires management to make
estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and
liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of
the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses
during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
(a) Basis of combination
The combined financial statements include the consolidated accounts of
Myriad Africa (including its equity investment in MultiChoice Middle East) and
NetMed and an equity investment in Irdeto. Included in Note 9 is a listing of
the significant companies included in the combined financial statements. The
structure of the Acquired MIH Businesses has not changed during the periods
presented in these combined financial statements.
An inter-company loan owing by the Acquired MIH Businesses to another
NetHold subsidiary, which was acquired by MIH, has been included in net deficit.
All inter-company transactions are eliminated as part of the combination
process, and the interest of the minority shareholders in the combined equity
and the combined results of the Acquired MIH Businesses are shown separately in
the Combined Balance Sheet and Statement of Operations. For financial reporting
purposes, the equity accounts of the Acquired MIH Businesses have been
accumulated into a single amount entitled net deficit. Where the losses
applicable to the minority shareholders in a consolidated subsidiary exceed the
minority interest in the subsidiary, the excess, and any further losses
applicable to the minority, are charged against the majority interest except to
the extent that the minority has a binding obligation to, and is able to, make
good the
F-40
<PAGE>
Acquired MIH Business (Predecessor to MIH Limited)
Notes to the Combined Financial Statements (continued)
losses. If the subsidiary subsequently reports profits, the majority interest is
allocated to all such profits until the minority's share of losses previously
absorbed by the majority has been recovered.
Companies in which the Acquired MIH Businesses have joint control are
accounted for using the equity method with the Acquired MIH Businesses' share of
profit and losses included in the Combined Statement of Operations.
The Acquired MIH Businesses' share of post-acquisition retained
profits/losses is added to/deducted from the cost of the joint venture
investments in the Combined Balance Sheet.
Associated companies, in which the Acquired MIH Businesses have
significant influence, are accounted for using the equity method with the
Acquired MIH Businesses' share of profits and losses included in the Combined
Statement of Operations. The Acquired MIH Businesses' share of post-acquisition
retained profits/losses is added to/deducted from the cost of the associated
company investments in the Combined Balance Sheet.
Other investments are stated at cost. When necessary a provision is made
on the basis of an evaluation of each individual investment for any diminution
in value which is considered to be of a permanent nature.
(b) Foreign currencies
Individual companies' transactions in currencies other than their
functional currency are recorded at the rate of exchange at the date of the
transaction or, if hedged forward, at the rate of exchange under the related
forward exchange contract. Assets and liabilities in currencies other than their
functional currency are translated at year-end rates. Any resulting exchange
differences are reflected in the Statement of Operations.
On combination, assets and liabilities of companies denominated in foreign
currencies have been translated at year-end rates. Income and expense items are
translated using the annual weighted average rates of exchange or, where known
or determinable, at the rate on the date of the transaction for significant
items.
Adjustments from translation have been recorded in the net deficit and are
are reflected in the Combined Statement of Operations only upon sale or
liquidation of the underlying investments.
(c) Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents represent cash and short-term highly liquid
investments with original maturities of three months or less.
(d) Trade accounts receivable
Trade accounts receivable are stated at estimated realizable values and an
allowance for doubtful accounts is provided for an amount considered by
management to be sufficient to meet probable future losses related to
uncollectable amounts.
(e) Inventories
Inventories, consisting primarily of decoders and associated components,
are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Cost is generally
determined on the first-in first-out basis. Where necessary, provision is made
for obsolete, slow moving or defective inventories.
(f) Tangible fixed assets
Tangible fixed assets are stated at historical cost less accumulated
depreciation. Depreciation is charged on a straight-line basis over the
estimated useful lives of the respective assets, based on the following useful
lives:
Years
Buildings 50
Machinery, furniture and equipment 4 - 10
Transponders and transmitters 10
Decoders 2
Land is not depreciated. Major improvements to leasehold properties are
amortized over the period of the respective leases.
Fully depreciated assets are retained in property and depreciation
accounts until they are removed from service. In the case of disposals, assets
and related depreciation are removed from the accounts and the net amount, less
proceeds from disposal, is charged or credited to the Statement of Operations.
(g) Leases
Assets held under capital lease agreements are treated as tangible fixed
assets and the present value of the related lease payments is recorded as a
liability. Costs for operating leases are charged to the Statement of Operations
in the year that they are incurred.
F-41
<PAGE>
Acquired MIH Business (Predecessor to MIH Limited)
Notes to the Combined Financial Statements (continued)
(h) Sports and film rights
Film rights are stated at acquisition cost less accumulated amortization.
Sports rights are written off upon showing the event and general entertainment
and films are amortized on a straight-line basis over the period of the licence
or based on showings where the number of showings is limited. Amortization of
program and film rights is included in the cost of providing services.
(i) Taxation
Provision is made for all taxes payable in respect of taxable profits
earned in the year. Deferred taxation is provided at current rates for taxation
on all timing differences between values for financial reporting and fiscal
purposes under the liability method. No deferred taxation is provided for in
respect of timing differences that are anticipated to reverse within the
carry-forward period of tax losses.
(j) Minority interest
The interest of third parties in subsidiaries of the Acquired MIH
Businesses are accounted for on the basis of their share in the underlying
equity of the subsidiaries. Through March 31, 1997, the Acquired MIH Businesses
recorded losses of $9.2 million, attributable to minority interest.
(k) Revenue recognition
The Acquired MIH Businesses generate revenue from subscription fees,
decoder sales and rentals, advertising and the performance of other services,
net of sales taxes and discounts. Subscription fees are earned over the period
of providing services. Technology licensing and other services are recorded upon
delivery of products and customer acceptance, if any, or performance of
services. Advertizing revenues are recognized upon showing over the period of
the advertizing contract.
(l) Pensions and other postretirement benefits
The Acquired MIH Businesses have various postretirement and pension plans
in accordance with local conditions and practices in the countries in which it
operates. The plans are predominantly defined contribution plans. Current
contributions to the pension funds operated for employees are charged to the
Statement of Operations as incurred.
(m) Research and development costs
Research and development costs are expensed in the financial period during
which they are incurred. Research and development costs for the years ended
March 31, 1997 and 1996 were not material.
(n) Dividends
Dividends proposed are payable when declared by the board of directors.
Dividends declared by the Acquired MIH Businesses are payable in the functional
currency of the respective entity.
(o) Financial instruments
The Acquired MIH Businesses enter into foreign currency exchange contracts
in order to reduce the impact of certain foreign currency exchange rate
fluctuations. Firmly committed transactions and the related receivable and
payable may be hedged with forward exchange contracts. Any gains/losses are
included in accrued liabilities and are recognized in results when the
transaction being hedged is recognized.
(p) Segment reporting
The Acquired MIH Businesses have prepared their segmental reporting based
on the method of internal reporting, which disaggregates its businesses by
service or product and by geography.
4. Accounts receivable
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March, 31
1997
----------
(thousands)
<S> <C>
Trade accounts receivable ...................... $ 29,398
Less: Provision for doubtful accounts (7,067)
----------
$ 22,331
==========
</TABLE>
Included in accounts receivable are $22.2 milliony, pre-billed to
customers and credit balances which have been recorded as deferred income (Note
11).
F-42
<PAGE>
Acquired MIH Business (Predecessor to MIH Limited)
Notes to the Combined Financial Statements (continued)
5. Other receivables
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March, 31
1997
---------
(thousands)
<S> <C>
Prepayments and accrued income ..................................... $ 15,469
Other receivables .................................................. 5,823
---------
$ 21,292
=========
</TABLE>
6. Inventories
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March, 31
1997
---------
(thousands)
<S> <C>
Decoders and associated components ................................. $ 19,247
Less: Provision for slow moving and obsolete inventories ........... (6,466)
---------
$ 12,781
=========
</TABLE>
7. Valuation and qualifying accounts
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Charged to
At March 31, Translation costs and At March 31,
1996 adjustment expenses 1997
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
(thousands) (thousands) (thousands) (thousands)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Provision for doubtful accounts - Note 4 ... $ (3,829) $ 456 $ (3,694) $ (7,067)
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Provision for slow moving and
obsolete inventories - Note 6 ............ (4,759) 567 (2,274) (6,466)
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
$ (8,588) $ 1,023 $ (5,968) $ (13,533)
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
</TABLE>
8. Tangible fixed assets (in thousands)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Land, buildings
and leasehold Machinery, furniture Transponders
improvements and equipment and transmitters Decoders
---------------------- ---------------------- ---------------------- ---------
Purchased Leased Purchased Leased Purchased Leased Leased Total
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Cost
At March 31, 1996 ...... $ 2,793 $ -- $ 32,012 $ 5,928 $ 1,094 $ 4,301 $ -- $ 46,128
Translation adjustments. (279) -- (3,015) (567) (105) (411) -- (4,377)
Additions .............. 701 9,050 9,291 12,156 7,657 27,547 11,404 77,806
Disposals .............. (285) -- (3,963) (6,114) (3,484) -- -- (13,846)
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
At March 31, 1997 ...... 2,930 9,050 34,325 11,403 5,162 31,437 11,404 $ 105,711
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Accumulated depreciation
At March 31, 1996 ...... (208) -- (4,320) (1,795) (54) (699) -- (7,076)
Translation adjustments. 10 -- 354 172 5 68 -- 609
Charge for the year .... (178) -- (5,695) (4,927) (744) (1,276) (3,371) (16,191)
Disposals .............. 14 -- 910 3,178 294 -- -- 4,396
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
At March 31, 1997 ...... (362) -- (8,751) (3,372) (499) (1,907) (3,371) (18,262)
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Net book value
At March 31, 1997 ...... $ 2,568 $ 9,050 $ 25,574 $ 8,031 $ 4,663 $ 29,530 $ 8,033 $ 87,449
========= ========= ========= ========= ========= ========= ========= =========
</TABLE>
F-43
<PAGE>
Acquired MIH Business (Predecessor to MIH Limited)
Notes to the Combined Financial Statements (continued)
The Acquired MIH Businesses lease certain land and buildings, machinery,
furniture and equipment, and transponders and transmitters. Commitments for
minimum rentals under non-cancellable leases as at March 31, 1997 are as
follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Capital Captial
leases leases
(thousands) (thousands)
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
1998 .............................................. $ 12,064 $ 33,034
1999 .............................................. 11,618 33,611
2000 .............................................. 8,851 33,615
2001 .............................................. 7,002 33,630
2002 and after .................................... 51,919 143,844
----------- -----------
Total minimum lease payments ...................... $ 91,454 $ 277,734
===========
Less: amount representing interest ................ (42,542)
-----------
$ 48,912
===========
</TABLE>
Operating rental expenses for fiscal 1997 amounted to approximately $37.8
million.
Capital leases bear interest ranging from 6% - 20% as of March 31, 1997.
The weighted average interest rate was 12%.
9. Long-term investments
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March, 31
1997
-----------
(thousands)
<S> <C>
Associates (a) ................................................. $ 12,051
Joint ventures (b) .............................................. 5,265
Unlisted investments ............................................ 1,126
Unsecured loans to joint ventures ............................... 5,230
-----------
$ 23,672
===========
(a) Associates
Electronic Media Network Limited ("M-Net") .................. $ 10,224
Orbicom (Proprietary) Limited ("Orbicom") ................... --
Share of post-acquisition retained profits less losses ...... 1,827
-----------
$ 12,051
===========
(b) Joint ventures
MultiChoice Supplies (Proprietary) Limited
("MultiChoice Supplies") .................................... $ 4,790
Irdeto ................................................. 20
MultiChoice Middle East ..................................... 983
Share of post-acquisition retained profits less losses ...... (528)
-----------
$ 5,265
===========
Market value of listed shares
M-Net ....................................................... $ 71,022
===========
</TABLE>
F-44
<PAGE>
Acquired MIH Business (Predecessor to MIH Limited)
Notes to the Combined Financial Statements (continued)
9. Long-term investments (continued)
The following information relates to the Acquired MIH Businesses' significant
investments:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March 31,
1997
---------
Type of investment % Nature of business Country
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Unlisted marketable securities at cost
Cable News Egypt S.A.E. 10.0 Television Egypt
Associates
M-Net 20.0 Pay-television South Africa
Orbicom 20.0 Signal distribution South Africa
Joint ventures
MultiChoice Supplies 50.0 Decoder rentals South Africa
Irdeto 49.0 Technology development The Netherlands
MultiChoice Middle East 45.0 Pay-television Mauritius
Subsidiaries
Myriad Africa BV 100 Investment holding The Netherlands
MultiChoice Africa (Pty) Limited
("MultiChoice Africa") 100.0 Pay-television South Africa
MultiChoice Africa Limited 100.0 Investment Holding British Virgin Islands
NetMed 100.0 Investment Holding The Netherlands
NetMed Hellas S.A. 52.0 Pay-television Greece
MultiChoice Hellas S.A. 52.0 Pay-television Greece
</TABLE>
The aggregate summarized financial information of the joint ventures at
March 31, 1997 is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March, 31
1997
-----------
(thousands)
<S> <C>
Current assets ................................................. $ 2,220
Long-term assets ............................................... 5,485
Current liabilities ............................................ (3,680)
Long-term liabilities .......................................... (379)
Shareholders' deficit .......................................... (3,646)
Revenues ....................................................... 10,455
Expenses ....................................................... (12,552)
-----------
Net loss before taxation ....................................... (2,097)
Taxation benefit/(expense) ..................................... 43
-----------
Net loss ....................................................... $ (2,054)
===========
</TABLE>
F-45
<PAGE>
Acquired MIH Business (Predecessor to MIH Limited)
Notes to the Combined Financial Statements (continued)
10. Program and film rights
The following table sets forth the components of program and film rights,
on a gross and net basis:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March, 31
1997
-----------
(thousands)
<S> <C>
Cost
Program rights ......................................................... $ 70,944
Film rights ............................................................ 10,291
-----------
81,235
===========
Accumulated amortization
Program rights ......................................................... 17,337
Film rights ............................................................ 8,425
-----------
25,762
===========
Net book value
Program rights ......................................................... 53,607
Film rights ............................................................ 1,866
-----------
$ 55,473
===========
Classified on the balance sheets as follows:
Currents assets ........................................................ $ 32,599
Non-current assets ..................................................... 22,874
-----------
$ 55,473
===========
</TABLE>
11. Accrued expenses and other current liabilities
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March, 31
1997
-----------
(thousands)
<S> <C>
Deferred income ........................................................ $ 22,213
Accrued expenses ....................................................... 35,968
Taxes and social securities ............................................ 5,086
Other current liabilities .............................................. 16,406
-----------
$ 79,673
===========
</TABLE>
12. Provisions
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March, 31
1997
-----------
(thousands)
<S> <C>
Post-retirement benefits ............................................... $ 4,678
Write-down of carrying values of assets in certain African countries ... 5,001
Decoder technology ..................................................... 4,098
Programming costs ...................................................... 2,885
Other provisions ....................................................... 203
-----------
$ 16,865
===========
</TABLE>
F-46
<PAGE>
Acquired MIH Business (Predecessor to MIH Limited)
Notes to the Combined Financial Statements (continued)
13. Long-term debt and program and film rights
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March, 31
1997
-----------
(thousands)
<S> <C> <C>
Long-term debt comprises:
Capital leases - Note 8 ....................................... $ 48,912
NetHold Finance VOF ........................................... 26,655
Other long-term debt .......................................... 519
76,086
Less: Short-term portion included in current liabilities ........ (15,476)
-----------
$ 60,610
===========
</TABLE>
Program and film rights payable are non-interest bearing and amounts due
in future fiscal years are $7.3 million in 1998, $10.7 million in 1999 and $20
million thereafter.
The loan repayable to Nethold Finance VOF is unsecured and matures on or
before October 4, 1998. The loan is denominated in Netherlands guilders and
bears interest at 2% above the Amsterdam Inter-bank Benchmark Rate.
Other long-term debt does not have fixed repayment terms and bears
interest at 6%.
The currency mix of the long-term debt as at March 31, 1997 is:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
%
-----------
<S> <C>
Greek drachmae .................................................. 42.0
Netherlands guilder ............................................. 24.0
South African rand .............................................. 10.0
European Currency Unit .......................................... 24.0
-----------
100.0
===========
</TABLE>
14. Net revenues
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March, 31
1997
-----------
(thousands)
<S> <C>
Subscription revenues ........................................... $ 315,463
Decoder sales and repairs ....................................... 60,183
Other ........................................................... 16,252
-----------
$ 391,898
===========
</TABLE>
15. Financial results
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March, 31
1997
-----------
(thousands)
<S> <C>
Interest income ................................................. $ 4,005
Interest expense ................................................ (7,780)
Exchange losses ................................................. (1,492)
-----------
$ (5,267)
===========
</TABLE>
16. Income taxation
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March, 31
1997
-----------
(thousands)
<S> <C>
Foreign taxation
Current ....................................................... $ (1,158)
Deferred ...................................................... --
-----------
Charged against income .......................................... $ (1,158)
===========
</TABLE>
F-47
<PAGE>
Acquired MIH Business (Predecessor to MIH Limited)
Notes to the Combined Financial Statements (continued)
The difference between income taxation expense computed at statutory rates
of the respective businesses and income taxation expense provided on earnings is
as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March, 31
1997
-----------
(thousands)
<S> <C>
Income taxation benefit at statutory rates ...................... $ 10,252
Unprovided timing differences ................................... (6,107)
Permanent differences:
Non-deductible charges ........................................ (2,469)
Expenditure of a capital nature ............................... 54
Dividends received ............................................ (504)
Utilisation of losses carried forward ......................... (2,384)
-----------
Income taxation expense ......................................... $ (1,158)
===========
</TABLE>
The Acquired MIH Businesses have tax loss carry-forwards of approximately
$76.5 million expiring in years 1998 through 2002 and tax losses of $19.5
million which may be carried forward indefinitely.
The ultimate outcome of additional taxation assessments may vary from the
amounts accrued, however, management of the Acquired MIH Businesses believe that
any additional taxation liability over and above the amount accrued would not
have a material adverse impact on the Acquired MIH Businesses results of
operations or financial position.
Unprovided timing differences are timing differences that are expected to
reverse within the carry-forward period of tax losses (note 3(i)) and are,
therefore, effectively a valuation allowance.
The deferred taxation relates to the temporary differences between the
book values and the tax bases of assets and liabilities. Significant
components of the Acquired MIH Businesses deferred taxation liabilities
and assets are summarized below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March, 31
1997
-----------
(thousands)
Deferred taxation liabilities
<S> <C>
Leased assets ................................................... $ 2,648
Prepayments ..................................................... 2,386
-----------
Gross deferred taxation liabilities ............................. 5,034
-----------
Deferred taxation assets
Purchased intangible fixed assets ............................... 2,053
Purchased tangible fixed assets ................................. 153
Accounts receivable and other assets ............................ 175
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities .................. 21,870
Program and film rights ......................................... 566
Leased tangible fixed assets .................................... 209
Deferred income ................................................. 6,275
Tax loss carry-forwards ......................................... 26,770
-----------
Gross deferred taxation assets .................................. 58,071
-----------
Net deferred taxation assets .................................... 53,037
Less: Valuation allowance ....................................... (53,037)
-----------
$ --
===========
</TABLE>
The Acquired MIH Businesses have recorded a valuation allowance against the net
deferred taxation asset as in management's estimate it is more likely than not
that the deferred taxation asset will not be realized, due to the historical
operating losses of the Acquired MIH Businesses and timing limits on the tax
loss carry-forwards that arose on those losses.
F-48
<PAGE>
Acquired MIH Business (Predecessor to MIH Limited)
Notes to the Combined Financial Statements (continued)
17. Related party transactions
The Acquired MIH Businesses entered into transactions and have balances
with a number of affiliated companies, including equity investees, shareholders
and entities under common control. Transactions with affiliated companies are
summarized in the following table:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March, 31
1997
-----------
(thousands)
<S> <C>
Income
Satellite transmission costs (a) .............................. $ 227
Costs
Channel and programming costs (b) ............................. $ 137,804
Satellite transmission costs (c) .............................. 12,767
Use of broadcasting facilities (d) ............................ 741
Licensing fees (e) ............................................ 2,404
-----------
$ 153,716
===========
</TABLE>
(a) Certain costs related to the lease, maintenance and insurance of signal
distribution are charged on by the Acquired MIH Businesses to one of its
affiliated companies.
(b) The Acquired MIH Businesses purchased the right to transmit certain
channels and programs from an affiliated company.
(c) The Acquired MIH Businesses are charged by an affiliate for services
relating to the lease, maintenance and insurance of signal distribution
equipment ranging from ground-stations to satellite transponders.
(d) The Acquired MIH Businesses are charged for the use of broadcasting
facilities of an affiliated company.
(e) Licensing fees are charged by an affiliated company for the use certain
subscriber technology and software.
The balances of advances, deposits, receivables and payables between the
Acquired MIH Businesses and affiliates are:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year ended
March, 31
1997
-----------
(thousands)
<S> <C>
Receivables:
M-Net ......................................................... $ 1,000
Orbicom ....................................................... 3,350
MIH Holdings .................................................. 2,324
MultiChoice Nigeria ........................................... 3,020
Other ......................................................... 553
-----------
$ 10,247
===========
Payables:
MIH Limited ................................................... $ 78,527
NetHold ....................................................... --
Irdeto ........................................................ 4,317
FilmNet ....................................................... --
MultiChoice Belgium N.V ....................................... 841
Other ......................................................... 132
-----------
$ 83,817
===========
</TABLE>
F-49
<PAGE>
Acquired MIH Business (Predecessor to MIH Limited)
Notes to the Combined Financial Statements (continued)
18. Segment and geographic information
The reportable segments of the Acquired MIH Businesses are those that are
based on the Acquired MIH Businesses' method of internal reporting, which
disaggregates its businesses by service/product and by geography.
The Acquired MIH Businesses reportable business segments are
pay-television services and technology. The pay-television business segment is
conducted in Africa and the Middle East and the Mediterranean. The technology
business segment consists of an equity investment in Irdeto, based in The
Netherlands. The Acquired MIH Businesses' operations in the Middle East are
accounted for by the equity method and are, therefore, included in equity in
results of joint ventures below.
The accounting policies of the segments are identical to the accounting
policies described in "Summary of Significant Accounting Policies".
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 (In thousands) Pay television Segmental
services Technology Total
-----------------------------------------------------------
Africa
and the
Middle East Mediterranean
-----------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
SALES
External sales .................... $ 306,950 $ 83,873 $ -- $ 390,823
Inter-segment sales ............... -- 1,075 -- 1,075
-----------------------------------------------------------
Total revenue ..................... $ 306,950 $ 84,948 $ -- $ 391,898
===========================================================
RESULTS
Operating loss .................... $ (8,953) $ (15,177) $ -- $ (24,130)
Depreciation and amortization (a) . (9,029) (7,162) -- (16,191)
Amortization of program and
film rights ..................... -- (18,796) -- (18,796)
Operating loss is stated before the
following items:
Exchange loss ..................... (1,420) (72) -- (1,492)
Interest expense .................. (2,384) (5,396) -- (7,780)
Interest income ................... 3,413 592 -- 4,005
Equity results in associates ...... 2,644 -- -- 2,644
Equity results in joint ventures .. (1,916) -- 3,060 1,144
Income taxation ................... (19) (1,139) -- (1,158)
OTHER INFORMATION
Segment assets .................... 132,995 148,226 5,932 287,153
Investments in equity companies ... 14,242 -- 3,074 17,316
Other investments ................. 6,356 -- -- 6,356
Segment liabilities ............... 116,963 220,780 -- 337,743
Capital expenditure ............... 7,841 9,808 -- 17,649
</TABLE>
19. Commitments and contingencies
(a) Loans
MultiChoice Africa is required to lend a joint venture an amount not
exceeding $1.6 million, which represents 20% of a banking facility available to
fund the acquisition of decoders.
(b) Loss insurance
The Acquired MIH Businesses do not generally carry risk of loss insurance
for injury to others, damage to the property of others, or interruption of their
business operations.
F-50
<PAGE>
Acquired MIH Business (Predecessor to MIH Limited)
Notes to the Combined Financial Statements (continued)
20. Foreign currency management
The currencies of the countries in which the Acquired MIH Businesses
operate are also their functional currency. For these operations, all gains and
losses from foreign currency transactions are included in current results. The
cumulative translation effects for operations using functional currencies other
than the US dollar are included in Net Deficit.
The Acquired MIH Businesses use foreign currency forward exchange
contracts, which typically expire within one year, to hedge payments of foreign
currencies related to the purchase and sale of goods and services in currencies
other than the functional currency. Realized gains and losses on these contracts
are recognized in the same period as the hedged transactions. The Acquired MIH
Businesses had foreign exchange forward contracts on hand at March 31, 1997,
hedging South African rand against the US dollar and the British pound sterling.
The Acquired MIH Businesses do not currently hold or issue derivative financial
instruments for trading purposes.
The contractual amounts, exchange rates and settlement dates of the
outstanding foreign currency forward exchange contracts at March 31, 1997, are
set out below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Average
exchange Settlement
(thousands) rates dates
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
South African rand/US dollars $ 26,070 5,06 April 30, 1997 to March 27, 1998
South African rand/ British pound sterling $ 1,954 7,12 April 30, 1997 to February 27, 1998
</TABLE>
21. Fair value of financial instruments
The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents approximates fair value
due to the short maturities of these instruments. The value of long-term debt is
estimated using discounted cash flows based on the Acquired MIH Businesses'
incremental borrowing rates for similar types of borrowings. The value of
foreign currency forward exchange contracts is based on quoted market prices. A
comparison of the carrying value and fair value of these instruments is as
follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March 31, 1997
-----------------------------
Carrying value Fair value
(thousands) (thousands)
-------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 53,908 $ 53,908
Receivables 53,870 53,870
Liabilities:
Payables and provision 222,895 222,895
Short-term borrowings 23,480 23,480
Long-term debt 91,368 91,368
Off-balance-sheet instruments
Forward exchange contracts 28,024 24,610
</TABLE>
22 Pension fund
The Acquired MIH Businesses have defined contribution plans covering
employees of most of its subsidiaries. The Acquired MIH Businesses'
contributions under these plans are based primarily on the performance of the
business units and employee compensation. Total contributions amounted to $3.5
million for 1997.
23. Post-retirement benefits
MultiChoice Africa provides post-retirement medical benefits by way of
medical aid contributions. IAS 19 "Retirement Benefit Costs" is effective for
periods beginning after January 1, 1995 and requires recognition of the costs of
such benefits on an accrual basis. MultiChoice Africa recognized its cumulative
actuarially determined liability for post-retirement medical benefits as of
April 1, 1995 of $3.9 million. In accordance with IAS 19 and IAS 8, "Net Profit
or Loss for the Period, Fundamental Errors and Changes in Accounting Policies"
the change has been reported retrospectively through an adjustment of $3.9
million to the opening balance of MultiChoice Africa accumulated results as of
April 1, 1995. During the year ended March 31, 1997, an agreement was reached
with employees of MultiChoice Africa to terminate the post-retirement medical
aid benefits plan in exchange for an increase of MultiChoice Africa's annual
contributions to the retirement benefit fund. The provision will be released to
operating results to match the additional contributions to the retirement
benefit plan.
F-51
<PAGE>
Acquired MIH Business (Predecessor to MIH Limited)
Notes to the Combined Financial Statements (continued)
24. Differences between IAS and United States Generally Accepted Accounting
Principles
The Acquired MIH Businesses' combined financial statements are prepared in
accordance with IAS, which differ in certain respects from accounting principles
generally accepted in the United States ("US GAAP").
No material differences exist between the net loss and total net deficit
as determined under IAS and US GAAP.
Additional disclosure requirements
(a) Certain Risks and Concentrations
The Acquired MIH Businesses are exposed to certain concentrations of
credit risk relating to cash and current investments. The Acquired MIH
Businesses place cash and current investments with high quality institutions.
The Acquired MIH Businesses' policy is designed to limit exposure with any one
institution and to invest its excess cash in low risk investment accounts. The
Acquired MIH Businesses have not experienced any losses on such accounts. As of
March 31, 1997, cash and current investments were held with numerous financial
institutions.
The Acquired MIH Businesses' digital programming is or will be transmitted
to customers through different satellites around the world, and in certain
regions its terrestrial analog signal is also transmitted to regional broadcast
points through satellites. In addition, the Acquired MIH Businesses receive a
significant amount of their programming through satellites. Satellites are
subject to significant risks that may prevent or impair commercial operations.
Although the Acquired MIH Businesses have not experienced any significant
disruption of its transmissions the operation of the satellites is beyond the
control of the Acquired MIH Businesses. Disruption of the transmissions of
satellites could have a material adverse effect on the Acquired MIH Businesses.
(b) Stock based compensation
MIH management and employees participate in the Stock Option Plan (the
"Plan") of MIH Holdings Limited ("MIHH"). Under the Plan MIHH may grant options
to its employees for up to 11.8 million shares of MIHH's common stock. Stock
options may be granted with an exercise price not less than 100% of the market
value of the shares at the time of the grant. One-third of the options generally
vest at the anniversary of each of the third, fourth and fifth year after the
grant date of the stock options and expire after ten years. Unvested shares are
subject to cancellation upon expiration or termination of employment.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997
Weighted average
exercise price
Shares (Rand)
-------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Outstanding at April 1, 1996 $ 898,423 10.26
Granted -- --
Exercised (111,956) 8.64
Forfeited (51,718) 11.75
Outstanding at March 31, 1997 734,749 10.40
</TABLE>
The following table summarizes information about the stock options outstanding
at March 31, 1997:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Range of Outstanding Weighted Exercisable Weighted
exercise as of Remaining average as of average
prices March 31, contractual life exercise price March 31, exercise price
(Rand) 1997 (years) (Rand) 1997 (Rand)
-------- ----------- ---------------- -------------- ----------- --------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
5.60 - 8.50 271,618 5.88 6.82 160,557 6.99
8.51 - 12.50 463,131 7.64 12.50 -- --
</TABLE>
The Acquired MIH Businesses apply Accounting Principles Board ("APB")
Opinion 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees," and related
Interpretations for purposes of US GAAP in accounting for its plans.
Accordingly, no compensation cost has been recognized for its stock option plan.
Under SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation"("SFAS 123"), the
compensation cost for the Acquired MIH Businesses is determined based on the
fair value at the grant date of stock options awarded under the plan. No stock
options were granted under the Plan between April 1, 1995, the effective date of
SFAS 123 to be used by the Acquired MIH Businesses for purposes of calculating
the impact of SFAS 123, and March 31, 1997. The application of SFAS 123
therefore does not have an impact on the reported net loss of the Acquired MIH
Businesses.
F-52
<PAGE>
AUDITORS'REPORT
To the Shareholders of United Broadcasting Corporation Public Company Limited
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of United
Broadcasting Corporation Public Company Limited and its subsidiaries as at March
31, 1999 and the related statement of loss and deficit, change in shareholders'
equity and cash flow for the year then ended. These consolidated financial
statements are the responsibility of the Group's management. Our responsibility
is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards in the United States of America. 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.
As set out in note 2, the consolidated financial statements for the year
ended March 31, 1999 have been prepared for stock exchange compliance purposes
of a shareholder of the Company. The consolidated financial statements for the
year ended March 31, 1999 are prepared in accordance with and comply with
accounting principles generally accepted in Thailand, except that no comparative
information has been presented. Our opinion is not qualified in this respect.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly,
in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of United
Broadcasting Corporation Public Company Limited and its subsidiaries as at March
31, 1999 and the consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows
for the year then ended, in conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles in Thailand.
We draw attention to Note 33 which is marked "unaudited". Information
regarding the Year 2000 issue as presented in this note has not been subjected
to auditing procedures, and accordingly, we express no opinion on it.
Generally accepted accounting principles in Thailand vary in certain
significant respects from accounting principles generally accepted in the United
States of America. Application of the latter would have affected the
determination of consolidated results for the year ended March 31, 1999 and
shareholders' equity as of March 31, 1999 to the extent summarised in Note 32 to
the consolidated financial statements.
PricewaterhouseCoopers
Bangkok
August 24, 1999
F-53
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated Balance Sheet
March 31, 1999
(in thousands of US dollars)
Notes As at March 31, 1999
--------------------
<S> <C> <C>
ASSETS
Current assets
Cash in hand and at banks ................................ 5 $ 58,317
Short term investments ................................... 6 234
Trade receivables - net .................................. 7 3,852
Amounts due from related companies ....................... 8 1,747
Inventories, net ......................................... 9 5,164
Other current assets ..................................... 10 11,826
---------
Total current assets ................................... 81,140
Non-current assets
Investments held to maturity ............................. 11 38
Property, plant and equipment, net ....................... 12 145,235
Equipment held under concession agreements, net .......... 13 6,560
Deferred charges, net .................................... 13 7,889
Other .................................................... 1,004
---------
Total non-current assets ............................... 160,826
---------
TOTAL ASSETS ............................................. 241,966
=========
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities
Accounts payable - trade ................................. 36,953
Advances from customers .................................. 3,354
Short term loans and advances from related parties ....... 8 670
Current portion of obligations under finance leases ...... 15 2,124
Accrued expenses ......................................... 14 5,471
Provisions for liabilities and charges ................... 8,18 5,182
Other current liabilities ................................ 3,426
---------
Total current liabilities .............................. 57,180
---------
Non-current liabilities
Foreign subsidiaries provision ........................... 6,483
Obligations under finance leases ......................... 15 54,765
Other liabilities ........................................ 19 7,363
---------
Non-current liabilities .................................... 68,611
---------
TOTAL LIABILITIES ........................................ 125,791
---------
Minorities' interest in subsidiaries ....................... 21 2,431
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Share capital .............................................. 22 183,877
Share premium .............................................. 22 157,265
Retained deficit
Appropriated - legal reserve ............................. 380
Unappropriated ........................................... (249,817)
Foreign currency translation adjustment .................. 22,039
---------
TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS'EQUITY .................................. 113,744
---------
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY ................. $ 241,966
=========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
F-54
<PAGE>
Consolidated Statement of Loss
for the year ended March 31, 1999
(in thousands of US dollars)
Notes Consolidated
------------
1999
Net revenues
Subscriber-based television service ................ $ 72,050
Equipment installation ............................. 5,852
Other services ..................................... 1,277
Interest income .................................... 24 3,196
Other income ....................................... 1,800
---------
Total revenues ................................... 84,175
---------
Expenses
Cost of service and equipment installation ......... 105,397
Cost of sales ...................................... 719
Selling and administrative expenses ................ 29,231
Directors'remuneration ............................. 23 6
Loss on exchange rate .............................. 24 4,624
Interest expense ................................... 24 12,622
Other expenses ..................................... 25 18,420
Abnormal non-recurring items ....................... 26 5,017
Income tax expense ................................. --
---------
Total expenses ....................................... 176,036
---------
Net loss before minority interest .................... (91,861)
Share of net loss in subsidiaries to minority interest 21 764
---------
Net loss ............................................. $ (91,097)
=========
Loss per share (US $ per share)
Basic and diluted loss share before considering
minority interests ................................. 27 (0.14)
Less share in net basic and diluted loss to
minority interest .................................. --
---------
Basic and diluted loss per share ..................... (0.14)
=========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
F-55
<PAGE>
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Shareholders' Equity
for the year ended March 31, 1999
(in thousands of US dollars)
Notes Consolidated
------------
1999
Share capital
Common shares
Balance at beginning of year ..................... $ 61,990
Increase during the year ......................... 121,887
---------
Balance at end of year ........................... 183,877
---------
Premium on share capital
Balance at beginning of year ..................... 58,520
Increase during the year ......................... 98,745
---------
Balance at end of year ........................... 157,265
---------
Retained earnings (deficit)
Appropriated - legal reserve
Balance at beginning of year ..................... 380
Increase during the year ......................... --
---------
Balance at end of year ........................... 380
---------
Deficit
Balance at beginning of year ..................... (105,447)
Increase during the year - net loss .............. (91,097)
Increase during the year - goodwill .............. 29 (53,273)
---------
Balance at end of year ............................. (249,817)
---------
Foreign currency translation adjustment
Balance at beginning of year ..................... (2,245)
Increase during the year ......................... 24,284
---------
Balance at end of year ........................... 22,039
---------
Total shareholders' equity ......................... $ 113,744
=========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
F-56
<PAGE>
Consolidated Statement of Deficit in Shareholders' Equity
for the year ended March 31, 1999
(in thousands of US dollars)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Notes Consolidated
------------
1999
Deficit
<S> <C> <C>
Deficit at beginning of year ......................... $(105,447)
Net loss for the year ................................ (91,097)
Excess of the costs of investments in
subsidiaries over their book values .................. 29 (53,273)
-----------
(144,370)
-----------
Deficit at end of year ............................... (249,817)
-----------
Appropriated retained earnings
Legal reserve .......................................... 380
-----------
Foreign currency translation adjustment
Balance at beginning of year ......................... (2,245)
Exchange translation ................................. 24,284
-----------
Balance at end of year ............................... 22,039
Total deficit at end of year ........................... $(227,398)
===========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
</TABLE>
F-57
<PAGE>
Consolidated Cash Flow Statement
for the year ended March 31, 1999
(in thousands of US dollars)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Notes Consolidated
------------
1999
<S> <C> <C>
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash outflows from operations .......................... 28 $ (47,861)
Interest received ...................................... 3,285
Interest paid .......................................... (12,623)
Tax paid ............................................... --
---------
Net cash from operating activities ....................... (57,199)
Cash flow from investing activities
Net decrease in short term investments ................. 1,891
Net increase in short term loans to related parties .... 2,392
Addition to investment in shares of subsidiaries ....... (46,990)
Addition to other investments .......................... (3,832)
Purchase of leasehold improvements and equipment ....... (61,699)
Addition to cost of subscriber based television
network ................................................ (333)
Addition to investment in deferred charges ............. (20,155)
Exchange rate adjustments derived from the
translation of foreign subsidiaries' financial
statements ........................................... 390
---------
Net cash used in investing activities .................... (128,336)
Cash flows from financing activities
Increase in share capital .............................. 239,587
Installments paid for finance lease .................... (1,413)
Loan from bank ......................................... (5,595)
---------
Net cash used in financing activities .................... 232,579
---------
Increase in cash and cash equivalents .................... 47,044
---------
Movement in cash and cash equivalents
At start of year ....................................... 7,445
Increase in year ....................................... 47,044
Cash of subsidiaries of which the related share
capital were acquired on May 5, 1998 ................... 2,006
Exchange translation in cash and cost equivalents ...... 1,822
---------
At end of year ........................................... 5 $ 58,317
=========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
</TABLE>
F-58
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (In the notes
all amounts are shown in US$ thousands unless otherwise stated)
1. General information
The principal business operations of the Company and its subsidiaries are
summarised as follows:
The Company and a subsidiary, namely UBC Cable Network Public Company
Limited ("UBC Cable") are engaged in the operations of subscriber-based
television networks (Digital Satellite Television and Cable Television,
respectively) under concessions received from the Mass Communication
Organization of Thailand, under agreements dated April 17, 1989 and June 6, 1994
respectively, and amendments thereto dated May 19, 1994 and November 9, 1994,
respectively, which expire on September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2019,
respectively. Under the aforesaid agreements, the Company and UBC Cable have to
pay annual fees to the Mass Communication Organization of Thailand based on
certain percentages of certain service income or at the minimum fee as specified
in each of those agreements, whichever is higher. In addition, the Company and
UBC Cable, according to the aforesaid agreements, have to transfer the ownership
of certain equipment procured for the operation of television networks to the
Mass Communication Organization of Thailand within the specified period in each
of those agreements.
A Company's subsidiary, Satellite Service Company Limited, is principally
engaged in rental and trading equipment for receiving services via satellite and
cable platforms, providing subscriber-based control systems and Digital
Direct-To-Home services relating to the subscriber-based television businesses
of the Company and UBC Cable.
A Company's subsidiary, Cineplex Company Limited, is principally engaged
in producing programs and rendering related services to support the
subscriber-based digital and cable television businesses. In addition, the said
subsidiary is engaged in the home shopping business through digital and cable
television, and selling space for advertisements in its television magazines.
Two subsidiaries of the Company, Rainbow Media Company Limited and IBC
Symphony Company Limited, were formerly engaged in rendering television airtime
service, trading motion picture films with local and overseas customers and
suppliers, and producing spots to support television programs. In the year ended
March 31, 1999 both companies did not engage in their major business activities.
As of March 31, 1999, a subsidiary in Laos and another subsidiary in
Cambodia had ceased their operations. The Company has already set up provisions
to cover losses on the collection of amounts due from both these subsidiaries.
On September 29, 1998 the Company registered with the Ministry of Commerce
to change its name from "International Broadcasting Corporation Public Company
Limited" to "United Broadcasting Corporation Public Company Limited".
2. Accounting policies
The principal accounting policies adopted in the preparation of these
consolidated financial statements are set out below:
(a) Basis of preparation
These consolidated financial statements have been prepared for certain
Stock Exchange compliance requirements for a major shareholder of the Company.
The consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with and
comply with accounting principles generally accepted in Thailand except that
comparative financial information has not been included. Comparative financial
information is not presented as it is not required by the shareholder for its
special purpose. Thai GAAP differs in certain significant respects from US GAAP.
The effect of the adjustments to net income and shareholders'equity are set out
in note 32.
The consolidated financial statements are prepared under the historical
cost convention.
(b) Consolidation
Subsidiary undertakings, which are those companies in which the Group,
directly or indirectly, has an interest of more than one half of the voting
rights or otherwise has power to exercise control over the operations, have been
consolidated. Subsidiaries are consolidated from the date on which effective
control is transferred to the Group and are no longer consolidated from the date
of disposal. All intercompany transactions, balances and unrealised surpluses
and deficits on transactions between group companies have been eliminated. Where
necessary, accounting policies for subsidiaries have been changed to ensure
consistency with the policies adopted by the Group. Separate disclosure is made
of minority interests.
F-59
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
2. Accounting policies (continued)
A listing of the Group's principal subsidiaries is set out below.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
% of holding
Name of subsidiary Business 1999 Country Currency
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Rainbow Media Co., Ltd. Rendering television
airtime services 99.99 Thailand Baht
IBC Symphony Co., Ltd. Television support
activities and
trading movies 99.99 Thailand Baht
Home Vision Entertainment
Co., Ltd. Mass Communication
Services 99.99 Thailand Baht
Cineplex Co., Ltd. Programme production 99.99 Thailand Baht
UBC Cable Network Public
Co., Ltd.
(formerly UTVCable Network
Public Co., Ltd.) Pay television via cable
system 97.85 Thailand Baht
Satellite Services Co.,
Ltd. Sale and rental of
equipment for DTH
and cable transmission,
signal compression
service and signal
installation and
connection service 96.22 Thailand Baht
International Broadcasting Operation of television
Corporation (Cambodia) and radio in Cambodia 70.00 Cambodia US dollars
Co.,Ltd.
International Broadcasting Operation of television
Corporation (Laos) Co., and radio in Laos. 70.00 Laos US dollars
Ltd.
</TABLE>
On May 4, 1998, the Company acquired, from Telecom Holding Company
Limited, an investment of 97.85% in the common share capital (227,864,600 common
shares) of UBC Cable Network Public Company Limited at a total value of
US$37,730 thousand, and an investment of 99.99% in the common share capital
(31,943,000 common shares) of Cineplex Company Limited at a total value of
US$10,842 thousand.
Details of these acquisitions are set out in note 29.
On September 30, 1997, the Company acquired an investment of 70% in the
common share capital (111,999,993 common shares) of Satellite Service Company
Limited ("SSV") from Shinawatra Satellite Public Company Limited at a total
value of US$33,642 thousand. Additional investments of 13% in the common share
capital (20,800,000 common shares) of SSV were also acquired from other former
shareholders on that date at a total value of US$6,248 thousand. On May 6, 1998
SSV increased its share capital from 160 million shares to 360 million shares.
All the newly issued shares were fully subscribed by the company and therefore
its investment in the common share capital of SSV increased from 83% to 92.44%.
On July 1, 1998 the company acquired a further 13.6 million shares in SSV from
Dhana Siam Finance Public Company Limited at a total value of US$2,859 thousand
and the company's shareholding in SSV as at March 31, 1999 had increased to
96.22%. Details of the increase in interest in SSV in the year ended 31 March
1999 are set out in note 29.
(c) Foreign currencies
The income statement of the Group is translated into the Group's reporting
currency at the average exchange rate for the year and the balance sheet is
translated at the balance sheet exchange rate. Exchange differences arising from
the translation of the net investment in foreign subsidiaries, are recorded in
the 'Translation reserve' in shareholders' equity. On disposal of foreign
entities, such translation differences are recognised in the income statement as
part of the gain or loss on sale.
Foreign currency transactions in Group companies are accounted for at the
exchange rates prevailing at the date of the transactions: gains and losses
resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from the translation of
monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies, are
recognised in the income statement. Such balances are translated at year-end
exchange rates unless hedged by forward foreign exchange contracts, in which
case the rates specified in such forward contracts are used.
Forward exchange contract receivables and payables are recorded in Baht at
the spot rate on the date of contract inception, and the balances at the balance
sheet date are translated into Baht at the prevailing spot rate. Exchange gains
or losses arising on translation at the balance sheet date are recognised in the
income statements for the period; all other exchange gains or losses arising are
recognised in the income statement in the same period as the exchange
differences on the items covered by the hedge.
Costs on such contracts are amortised over the life of the hedge contract.
Gains and losses on contracts which are no longer designated as hedges are
included in the income statement.
F-60
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
2. Accounting policies (continued)
(d) Financial instruments and foreign currency risk management
Financial instruments carried on the balance sheet include cash and bank
balances, investments, receivables, trade creditors, leases and borrowings. The
particular recognition methods adopted are disclosed in the individual policy
statements associated with each item.
The Company and the Group are also parties to financial instruments that
reduce exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange. The purpose of
these instruments is to reduce risk. The accounting to these instruments is
included in note 2c) above.
Disclosures about financial instruments to which the Group is a party are
provided in Note 30.
(e) Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair
value of the Group's share of the net assets of the acquired subsidiary at the
date of acquisition. Goodwill on acquisitions is charged directly to reserves.
(f) Computer software development costs
Generally, costs associated with developing computer software programmes
are recognised as an expense as incurred. However, costs that are clearly
associated with an identifiable and unique product which will be controlled by
the Group and has a probable benefit exceeding the cost beyond one year, are
recognised as an intangible asset. Associated costs include staff costs of the
development team and an appropriate portion of relevant overheads.
Expenditure which enhances and extends the benefits of computer software
programmes beyond their original specifications and lives is recognised as a
capital improvement and added to the original cost of the software. Computer
software development costs recognised as assets are amortised using the
straight-line method over their useful lives, not exceeding 3 years.
Costs associated with the maintenance of existing computer software
programmes and for modifications for the Year 2000 are expensed as incurred.
(g) Other intangible assets
Costs of subscriber based television networks:
Costs of subscriber based television networks under concession agreements
represent costs of certain equipment and other assets which have been or
have to be transferred to the Mass Communication Organisation of Thailand.
Costs of subscriber-based television networks under concession agreements
are amortized as expense on a straight line basis over the shorter of the
period of the concession agreement being until September 30, 2014 for the
Company and until December 31, 2019 for UBC Cable Network Public Company
Limited and the useful life of the asset.
Deferred charges:
Deferred charges represent pre-operating expenses, fees paid to the Mass
Communications Organisation of Thailand for permitting the Company and UBC
Cable to provide services to customers nationwide, costs of supplementary
equipment for the operation of subscriber based television services other
than those specified in the concession agreement, and costs of motion
picture films.
Pre-operating expenses are amortized over a period of 5 years.
Fees paid to the Mass Communication Organization of Thailand ("MCOT") for
permitting the Company to provide services to customers nationwide are
amortized over the remaining period of the concession agreement until
September 30, 2014.
Motion picture firms, included in deferred charges, are amortized to cost
of service by the straight-line method over the licensed period of each
motion picture film.
Intangible assets are not revalued. The carrying amount of each intangible
asset is reviewed annually and adjusted for permanent impairment where the
carrying value of the asset exceeds the estimated recoverable amount.
Where the carrying amount of an asset is greater than its estimated
recoverable amount, it is written down immediately to its recoverable
amount. Estimated recoverable amount is the higher of the anticipated
discounted cash flows from the use of the asset and the fair market value
of the asset reduced by any costs of disposal.
F-61
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
2. Accounting policies (continued)
(h) Investments
Investments held for maturity, being negotiated certificates of deposit,
are recorded at face value. Provision is made against cost where, in the opinion
of the Directors, there is a permanent diminution in value. Where there has been
a permanent diminution in the value of an investment, it is recognised as an
expense in the year in which the diminution is identified. On disposal of an
investment the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying
amount is charged or credited to the income statement.
(i) Property, plant and equipment
All property, plant and equipment is initially recorded at cost and is
stated at historical cost less depreciation.
Depreciation is calculated on the straight line method to write off the
cost of each asset to its residual value over its estimated useful life as
follows:
%
Leasehold improvements 20
Operating equipment 10.00-33.33
Furniture, fixtures and office equipment 20.00-33.33
Vehicles 20
Leased transponder equipment is depreciated over the lease term. The lease
term does not exceed the useful life of the equipment.
The Group's policy is to review asset values annually and to adjust
depreciation schedules to match estimated useful lives.
Where the carrying amount of an asset is greater than its estimated
recoverable amount, it is written down immediately to its recoverable amount.
Estimated recoverable amount is the higher of the anticipated discounted cash
flows from the use of the asset and the fair market value of the asset reduced
by any costs of disposal.
Gains and losses on disposal of property, plant and equipment are
determined by reference to their carrying amount and are taken into account in
determining operating profit.
(j) Accounting for leases - where a group company is the lessee
Leases of property, plant and equipment where the Group assumes
substantially all the benefits and risks of ownership are classified as finance
leases. Finance leases are capitalised at the estimated present value of the
underlying lease payments. Each lease payment is allocated between the liability
and finance charges so as to achieve a constant rate on the finance balance
outstanding. The corresponding rental obligations, net of finance charges, are
included in other long-term payables. The interest element of the finance charge
is charged to the income statement over the lease period. The property, plant
and equipment acquired under finance leasing contracts is depreciated over the
useful life of the asset.
Leases of assets under which all the risks and benefits of ownership are
effectively retained by the lessor are classified as operating leases. Payments
made under operating leases are charged to the income statement on a
straight-line basis over the period of the lease.
When an operating lease is terminated before the lease period has expired,
any payment required to be made to the lessor by way of penalty is recognised as
an expense in the period in which termination takes place.
(k) Inventories
Inventories comprise equipment for receiving subscription television
services via a satellite platform, equipment for receiving subscription cable
television services and MMDS equipment.
Inventories on hand are valued at the lower of average cost or net
realisable value. Cost of equipment for receiving subscription services via a
satellite platform is determined by the average cost method. Costs of equipment
for receiving subscription cable television services and MMDS equipment are
determined on the first-in, first-out method. Net realisable value is the
estimate of the selling price in the ordinary course of business, less provision
for selling expenses. Provision is made where necessary for obsolete,
slow-moving and defective inventories.
(l) Trade receivables
Trade receivables are carried at anticipated realisable value. The Group
provides allowance for doubtful accounts which is equivalent to the estimated
collection losses that may be incurred in the collection of all receivables. The
estimated losses are based on historical collection experience combined with a
review of the current status of the existing receivables at the balance sheet
date.
F-62
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
2. Accounting policies (continued)
(m) Cash and cash equivalents
For the purposes of the cash flow statement, cash and cash equivalents
comprise cash in hand and deposits held at banks as defined in the Thai
Accounting Standard with respect to the preparation of the statement of cash
flows which is in line with the definition prescribed in the regulation relating
to the financial statements issued under the Ministerial Regulation No. 7 (B.E.
2539) under the Public Companies Limited Act B.E. 2535.
Cash and cash equivalents therefore represent cash and short term highly
liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less.
(n) Provisions
Provisions are recognised when the Group has a present legal or
constructive obligation as a result of past events, it is probable that an
outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the
obligation, and a reliable estimate of the amount of the obligation can be made.
Employee entitlements to annual leave are recognised when they accrue to
employees. A provision is made for the estimated liability for annual leave as a
result of services rendered by employees up to the balance sheet date.
(o) Restructuring provisions
Costs specifically attributable to a restructuring mainly comprise
employee termination payments, and are recognised in the period in which they
become probable and can be determined with reasonable certainty.
(p) Pension obligations and employee benefits
The Group operates a provident fund, being a defined contribution plan,
the assets of which are held in a separate trustee-administered fund. The
provident fund is funded by payments from employees and by the relevant Group
companies.
The Group's contributions to the provident fund are charged to the income
statement in the period to which they relate.
Annual leave is accrued and charged to the income statement as employees
provide service.
(q) Deferred income taxes
Deferred income tax is provided, using the liability method, for all
temporary differences arising between the tax bases of assets and liabilities
and their carrying values for financial reporting purposes. Currently enacted
tax rates are used to determine deferred income tax.
The principal temporary differences arise from provisions, asset
impairment and write off of fixed assets and tax losses carried forward.
Deferred tax assets relating to the carryforward of unused tax losses are
recognised to the extent that it is more likely than not that future taxable
profit will be available against which the unused tax losses can be utilised.
(r) Revenue recognition
Revenue from the subscriber-based television service is recognised over
the period prescribed in each agreement.
Revenue from equipment installation is recognised when the installation is
accomplished.
Revenue from other services is recognised when services are rendered to
customers.
(s) Loss per share
Basic loss per share is calculated by dividing the consolidated net loss,
after considering the minority interest in subsidiaries, attributable to
shareholders by the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue during
the year.
3. Accounting for transponder service agreement
The Company entered into a transponder service agreement with a related
company in September 1997 to procure transponder space on the related company's
satellite for provision of its Digital Direct To Home Service. Under the
agreement the Company secures the right to use six non-preemptible unprotected
Ku-band transponders for an initial term expiring in November 2008, with an
option to renew the agreement under certain items and conditions for the
remaining operational life of the satellite.
F-63
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
3. Accounting for transponder service agreement (continued)
In the year ended March 31, 1999 the Company's management reviewed its
accounting for the transponder service agreement and considered that the
transponder service agreement should be accounted for as a finance lease to
reflect the underlying risks and rewards arising under the agreement. Previously
it had been accounted for as an operating lease. The lessor ceased to be a
related party in the period ended March 31, 1999.
The Company has accounted for the transponder service agreement as a
finance lease with effect from the date of the agreement, September 26, 1997.
The effect of this change on the balance sheet at March 31, 1999 has been to
increase leasehold improvements and equipment by US$42,963 thousand, short term
liabilities denominated in foreign currencies by US$2,124 thousand, long term
liabilities denominated in foreign currencies by US$54,765 thousand and to
reduce opening reserves by US$12,824 thousand. The effect on the results for the
period ended March 31, 1999 has been to increase depreciation charged to cost of
service by US$4,266 thousand, to reduce rental payments charged to cost of
service by US$12,862 thousand, to increase exchange gains by US$2,070 thousand,
and to increase interest expense by US$11,500 thousand.
4. Segment information
The Company and its subsidiaries do not present segment information as the
major operations for the year ended March 31, 1999 were in respect of the
operation of subscriber based television services, which are classified as
entertainment and recreation business in accordance with the Stock Exchange of
Thailand.
5. Cash in hand and at bank
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
------------
<S> <C>
1999
Cash at bank and in hand .............................. $ 58,317
Short term bank deposits .............................. --
------------
$ 58,317
------------
</TABLE>
6. Short term investments
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
------------
1999
<S> <C>
Fixed deposits with local banks .............................. $ --
Fixed deposits with foreign banks ............................ 234
------------
$ 234
------------
</TABLE>
7. Trade receivables, net
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
------------
1999
<S> <C>
Trade receivables ......................................... $ 14,422
Less: Provision for doubtful accounts ..................... (10,570)
------------
Trade receivables, net .................................... $ 3,852
------------
</TABLE>
Outstanding trade receivables as at March 31, 1999 can be analysed as
follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
------------
<S> <C>
1999
Current ................................................... $ 3,898
3-6 months ................................................ 595
6-12 months ............................................... 801
Over 12 months ............................................ 9,128
------------
14,422
Less: Provision for doubtful accounts ..................... (10,570)
------------
$ 3,852
============
</TABLE>
F-64
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
8. Related party transactions
At March 31, 1999 no single shareholder group owned in excess of 50% of
the Company's shares. The major shareholders of the Company (shareholdings in
excess of 5.0% of the issued shares excluding Thailand Securities Depositing
Co., Ltd. for depositors) at March 31, were:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1999
----------
<S> <C>
%
Telecom Holdings Co., Ltd ............................................ 40.96
MIH Ltd .............................................................. 26.11
</TABLE>
Shinawatra Computers & Communications Public Company Ltd held in excess of
5.0% of the issued shares during the year ended March 31, 1999, reducing its
interest to 5.0% on 29 January 1999. The Group ceased to recognise Shinawatra
Computers & Communications Public Company Ltd as a related party from that date;
it has been treated as a related party for the disclosure of revenues and
expenses below.
The Company has transactions with its related companies as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
------------
<S> <C>
1999
Shinawatra Computers & Communications Public Co.,
Ltd. and its related companies
Revenues
- interest ................................................... --
- commission ................................................. --
- advertising ................................................ --
Expenses
- transponder services (note 3) .............................. --
- satellite uplink services .................................. $ 596
- rental and other services .................................. 1,059
- consulting and management services ......................... 62
- interest expenses .......................................... 198
Telecom Holdings Co., Ltd. and its related companies
Revenues ........................................................ --
Expenses
- installation equipment services ............................ 7,810
- multimedia network services ................................ 18,318
- rental and other services .................................. 3,018
- interest expenses .......................................... 48
MIH Ltd. and its related companies
Revenues ........................................................ --
Expenses
- operating system services .................................. 2,639
- interest ................................................... 68
- consulting and management services ......................... 1,756
As at March 31, 1999
Amount due from related companies
- Shinawatra Computers & Communications Public Co., Ltd. .....
and its related companies .................................. --
- Telecom Holdings Co., Ltd. and its related companies ....... 1,570
- MIH Ltd. and its related companies ......................... 177
------------
$ 1,747
------------
Short-term loans and advances from related
companies - Shinawatra Computer & Communications
Public Co., Ltd. and its related companies ........................ --
- Telecom Holdings Co., Ltd. And its related companies ....... --
- MIH Ltd. and its related companies ......................... 670
------------
$ 670
------------
</TABLE>
F-65
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
8. Related party transactions (continued)
Commitments and contingencies
Commitments and contingencies to related parties are set out in note 31.
As set out in note 18 the Group has provided US$5,017 thousand in respect
of a probable claim from a purchaser of equipment, the purchaser being a related
party.
9. Inventories
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
------------
1999
<S> <C>
Aerials ................................................... $ 723
Supplies and spare parts .................................. 40
Digital Direct-To-Home equipment .......................... 5,260
Set-top boxes ............................................. 1,774
Inventories in transit .................................... 179
------------
7,976
Less: Allowance for obsolescence .......................... (2,812)
------------
Total ..................................................... $ 5,164
------------
</TABLE>
10. Other current assets
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
------------
1999
<S> <C>
Recoverable taxes ......................................... $ 22,180
Prepaid expenses .......................................... 1,563
Account receivable - other ................................ 823
Accrued income ............................................ 1,796
Others .................................................... 293
------------
Total ..................................................... 26,655
Less: Provision for unclaimed taxes ....................... (14,829)
------------
$ 11,826
------------
</TABLE>
11. Investments held to maturity
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
------------
1999
<S> <C>
Opening net book amount .................................... $ 138
Additions .................................................. --
Provision for diminution ................................... --
------------
Closing net book amount .................................... $ 138
============
</TABLE>
F-66
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
12. Property, plant and equipment
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Furniture,
Leased fixtures
Leasehold Operating transponder and office Prepaid Consolidated
improvements equipment equipment equipment Vehicles assets Total
------------ --------- --------- --------- -------- ------ -----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
At April 1, 1998
Cost ......................... $ 302 $ 65,824 $ 49,209 $ 2,704 $ 481 $ 9,426 $ 127,946
Accumulated depreciation ..... (271) (13,072) (3,540) (1,419) (392) -- (18,694)
Provision for unused assets .. -- -- -- (511) -- -- (511)
Provision for equipment losses -- (7,255) -- -- -- -- (7,255)
------- --------- -------- -------- ----- ------- ---------
Net book amount .............. 31 45,497 45,669 774 89 9,426 101,486
------- --------- -------- -------- ----- ------- ---------
Yearended March 31, 1999
Opening net book amount ...... 31 45,497 45,669 774 89 9,426 101,486
Additions and transfers ...... 3,402 64,852 -- 8,615 331 -- 77,200
Reclassifications ............ -- -- -- -- -- (7,312) (7,312)
Provision for unused assets .. -- (1,676) -- (290) -- -- (1,966)
Provision for equipment losses -- (5,105) -- -- -- -- (5,105)
Depreciation charge .......... (630) (14,611) (4,407) (3,117) (85) -- (22,850)
Translation adjustment ....... 1 1,696 1,702 29 3 351 3,782
------- --------- -------- -------- ----- ------- ---------
Closing net book amount ...... 2,804 90,653 42,964 6,010 338 2,465 145,235
------- --------- -------- -------- ----- ------- ---------
At March 31, 1999
Cost ......................... 3,715 133,130 51,043 11,419 830 2,465 202,602
Accumulated depreciation ..... (911) (28,170) (8,079) (4,589) (492) -- (42,241)
Provision for unused assets .. -- (1,676) -- (819) -- -- (2,495)
Provision for equipment losses -- (12,631) -- -- -- -- (12,631)
------- --------- -------- -------- ----- ------- ---------
Net book amount .............. $ 2,804 $ 90,653 $ 42,964 $ 6,010 $ 338 $ 2,465 $ 145,235
======= ========= ======== ======== ===== ======= =========
</TABLE>
In the year ended March 31, 1999 the Group relocated to new offices. As a
result of relocation certain furniture, fittings and office equipment and
operating equipment ceased to be used by the Group and is unlikely to be used in
the future. Full provision was made against the carrying value of such
equipment, and the provision was charged to the statement of loss as other
expense (refer to note 25).
In the year ended March 31, 1999 the Group identified US$5,105 thousand of
equipment rented to subscribers which could not be located. The Group made full
provision against the carrying value of such equipment in the year ended March
31, 1999, and the provision was charged to the statement of loss as other
expense (refer to note 25).
13. Intangible assets
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
-------------------------
Television Deferred
network charges
---------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
At April 1, 1998
Cost ............................................... $ 23,781 $ 35,892
Accumulated amortisation ........................... (5,407) (23,916)
Allowance for equipment which will not be used in
the future ......................................... (14,035) --
Allowance for loss on motion picture films ......... -- (6,028)
-------- --------
Net book amount .................................... 4,339 5,948
-------- --------
Year ended March 31, 1999
Opening net book amount ............................ 4,339 5,948
Additions .......................................... 2,728 27,525
Allowance for equipment which will not be used in
future (net) ....................................... 804 --
Allowance for loss on motion picture films (net) ... -- 2,011
Amortisation charge ................................ (1,473) (27,817)
Translation adjustment ............................. 162 222
-------- --------
Closing net book amount ............................ 6,560 7,889
======== ========
</TABLE>
F-67
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
13. Intangible assets (continued)
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
At March 31, 1999
Cost ............................................... 27,395 64,755
Accumulated amortisation ........................... (7,082) (52,625)
Allowance for equipment which will not be used in ..
the future ......................................... (13,753) --
Allowance for loss on motion picture films ......... -- (4,241)
-------- --------
Net book amount .................................... $ 6,560 $ 7,889
======== ========
</TABLE>
In the year ended March 31, 1998 UBC announced its intention to cease
offering pay TV services distributed through the analogue MMDs network as it
considered the continued use of the analogue MMDs network had ceased to be
economically viable. In recognition of this intention UBC reviewed the carrying
amount of certain intangible assets related to the analogue MMDs network and
raised provisions totaling US$14,035 thousand in recognition of permanent
impairment of these assets. In the year ended March 31, 1999 an additional US$57
thousand provision was recognised and charged to the statement of loss (note
25).
As a result of the acquisition of Cineplex Company Limited the Group
acquired additional programming rights. As a result of the acquisition of
additional programming rights the Group reviewed the carrying value of its
motion picture films and in recognition that certain older programming would not
be able to generate future earnings in excess of its carrying value, raised a
provision for permanent impairment of such programming of US$6,028 thousand in
the year ended March 31, 1998.
The Group continues to amortise these assets over the remaining concession
life and releases the provision on an annual basis on a basis consistent with
the amortisation of these assets.
14. Accrued expenses
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
------------
1999
<S> <C>
Accrued taxes .......................................... $ 3,460
Other expenses ......................................... 2,011
------------
$ 5,471
============
</TABLE>
15. Obligations under finance lease
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
------------
1999
<S> <C>
Finance lease liabilities - minimum lease payments: ........... $ 129,485
Not later than 1 year ......................................... 13,395
Later than 1 year and not later than 5 years .................. 53,580
Later than 5 years ............................................ 62,510
------------
Future finance charges on finance leases ...................... 72,596
------------
Present value of finance lease liabilities .................... 56,889
------------
Representing lease liabilities:
- current ..................................................... 2,124
- non current ................................................. 54,765
------------
$ 56,889
------------
The present value of finance lease liabilities may be analysed as follows:
Not later than 1 year.......................................... 2,124
Later than 1 year and not later than 5 years................... 14,298
Later than 5 years ............................................ 40,467
------------
$ 56,889
============
</TABLE>
F-68
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
16. Deferred income taxes
Deferred income taxes are calculated on all temporary differences under
the liability method using a principal tax rate of 30% (1998 30%).
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
------------
1999
<S> <C>
At beginning of year
Income statement credit ............................... $ 33,742
Valuation provision ................................... (33,742)
--------
At end of year ..................................... $ --
--------
</TABLE>
Deferred tax assets and liabilities and the deferred tax credit in the
income statement are attributable to the following items:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Credit to Acquisi-
1 April income tion Exchange 31 March
1998 statement (Note 29) translat'n 1999
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Deferred income tax liabilities
Other ................................ $ (427) $ 376 $ (927) $ (2) $ (980)
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
(427) 376 (927) (2) (980)
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Deferred income tax assets
Provisions ........................... 4,097 4,146 985 132 9,360
Impairment of assets ................. 6,189 2,603 -- 316 9,108
Tax loss carry forwards .............. 10,991 26,423 19,289 1,263 57,966
Other deductible temporary differences -- 194 -- 6 200
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
21,277 33,366 20,274 1,717 76,634
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Net deferred income tax asset ........ 20,850 33,742 19,347 1,715 75,654
Less valuation allowance ............. (20,850) (33,742) (19,347) (1,715) (75,654)
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
$ -- $ -- $ -- $ -- $ --
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
</TABLE>
The Group has raised a valuation allowance against the deferred taxation
asset as it is management's estimate that it is more likely than not that the
deferred taxation asset will not be realised, due to the historical taxation
losses incurred by the companies in the Group and the timing limits on the
taxation loss carry forwards that arose on these losses. The Group had taxation
loss carry forwards at December 31, 1998 (its most recent taxation year) of
approximately US$183 million expiring within December 31, 2003.
17. Pensions and other post retirement obligations
The Group operates a registered provident fund, being a pension scheme of
the defined contribution type.
The assets of the provident fund are held independently of the Group's
assets in separate trustee administered fund.
The pension cost for defined contribution schemes, which represents
contributions payable by the Group, amounted to US$99 thousand. Included in
creditors is US$188 thousand in respect of contributions to the schemes.
F-69
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
18. Provisions for liabilities and charges
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
-------------------------------------
Restructuring Customer
Provision claim Total
------- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
At 1 April 1998 ....................... $ 830 $ -- $ 830
Additional provisions (note 8) ........ -- 5,017 5,017
Unused amounts reversed ............... -- -- --
------- ------- -------
Charged to income statement ........... 830 5,017 5,847
------- ------- -------
Utilised during year .................. (833) -- (833)
Exchange translation .................. 3 165 168
------- ------- -------
At 31 March 1999 ...................... $ -- $ 5,182 $ 5,182
------- ------- -------
</TABLE>
Customer claim provision
The customer claim provision has been set up to provide for a probable
claim from a purchaser of equipment that a subsidiary sold to that customer (a
related party to the subsidiary at the date of sale and a related party at March
31, 1999) in a prior year (note 8). The expenses has been charged to the
statement of loss in the year (refer to note 26). The amount of the provision
has been determined based on an independent valuation of the equipment sold.
The restructuring charge was made and utilised in respect of the
acquisition of UBC Cable Network Public Company Limited and Cineplex Company
Limited (refer to note 29).
19. Other liabilities
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
------------
1999
<S> <C>
Deposits received from customers .............................. $4,829
Unamortised deferred income ................................... 2,534
------
$7,363
======
</TABLE>
Unamortised deferred income relates to amounts receivable from a customer
for services provided by a subsidiary. The customer has defaulted on payment and
legal actions are being taken by the subsidiary.
20. Unutilised credit facilities
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
-----------------------------
Short Long
term term
------ ------
<S> <C>
United Broadcasting Corporation Public Company Limited and subsidiaries 31,701 --
</TABLE>
Terms and conditions of the short term loan facilities are not specified
and are subject to mutual agreement between the Company, its subsidiaries and
lenders if required.
21. Minority interests
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1999
-------
<S> <C>
At beginning of year ............................................... 4,660
Acquisitions of increased interest in Satellite Services Co., Ltd .. (1,562)
Share of net loss of subsidiaries .................................. (764)
Exchange translation ............................................... 97
-------
At end of year ..................................................... $ 2,431
=======
</TABLE>
F-70
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
22. Ordinary shares and share premium
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Numberof Share Share
Shares Capital premium Total
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
At April 1, 1998 243,000,000 61,990 58,520 120,510
Issued, registered May 7, 1998 237,782,376 60,179 30,089 90,268
Issued, registered June 15, 1998 77,940,202 17,739 17,739 35,478
Issued, registered July 3, 1998 60,000,000 14,320 14,320 28,640
Issued, registered July 10, 1998 32,050,992 7,733 7,733 15,466
Issued, registered July 29, 1998 90,000,000 21,916 28,864 50,780
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
At March 31, 1999 $740,773,570 $ 183,877 $ 157,265 $ 341,142
============ ============ ============ ============
</TABLE>
Share capital
On March 27, 1998, the shareholders at the Extraordinary meeting passed a
resolution to approve the decrease of authorized share capital from 500,000,000
common shares of Baht 10 par value to 243,000,000 common shares of Baht 10 par
value, and to increase the authorized share of Baht par value. The increase of
authorized share capital was registered with the Ministry of Commerce on March
31, 1998. The shareholders also passed a resolution to approve the issuance of
237,782,376 new common shares to sell specifically to a new strategic partner at
Baht 15 per share, and authorized the Executive Committee to allot new common
shares but not exceeding 150,000,000 shares for selling to the existing
shareholders, and to issue new common shares but not exceeding 150,000,000
shares for selling specifically to other strategic partners, at the price and at
the time to be deemed appropriate. The aforementioned 237,782,376 shares were
issued and sold to the new strategic partner and registered with the Ministry of
Commerce on May 7, 1998.
On April 30, 1998, the Executive Committee passed a resolution to approve
the issuance of 110,018,850 new common shares and to offer to the existing
shareholders at the rate of 4.37 old shares for 1 new share, Baht 20 per share.
Such ratio is based on 243,000,000 common shares which have been officially
registered with the Ministry of Commerce for their issuance, plus 237,782,376
new common shares for the new strategic partner as discussed in the previous
paragraph. According to the aforesaid offer, only 77,940,202 common shares were
registered with the Ministry of Commerce on June 15, 1998. Certain existing
shareholders, as agreed by the Executive Committee Meeting on June 9, 1998, had
subsequently subscribed another 32,050,992 common shares which had not been
subscribed by other shareholders as part of the rights offer, at Baht 20 per
share. The said newly issued shares were registered with the Ministry of
Commerce on July 10, 1998.
On June 10, 1998, the shareholders at the Extraordinary meeting passed a
resolution to approve the issuance of 60,000,000 common shares to sell
specifically to an existing major shareholder at Baht 25 per share. The said
newly issued were registered with the Ministry of Commerce on July 3, 1998.
On July 10, 1998, the Executive Committee Meeting, in accordance with the
Extraordinary Shareholder Meeting on March 27, 1998 and the Executive Committee
on April 30, 1998, approved the allocation of up to 90 million new ordinary
shares, of Baht 10 par value, to Institutional Investors by way of private
placement, at a price of no less than Baht 24 per share. The said newly issued
shares were fully subscribed and subsequently registered with the Ministry of
Commerce on July 29, 1998. The premium on share capital in respect of the offer
of 50 million shares issued to institutional investors and registered with the
Ministry of Commerce on July 29, 1998 is net of management and underwriting
commission and selling commission incurred in the offer amounting to some
US$1,818 thousand.
No share options are granted to directors or employees.
F-71
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
23. Staff costs
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
------------
1999
<S> <C>
Wages and salaries ........................................... $6,977
Termination benefits ......................................... 307
Social security costs ........................................ 46
Pension costs - defined contribution plans ................... 90
------
$7,420
------
Number of persons employed by the group at March 31, 1999
Full time .................................................... 1,177
Part time .................................................... 100
------
1,277
------
</TABLE>
Directors' remuneration
In the year ended March 31, 1999 the remuneration of the directors
amounted to US$6,149. Directors remuneration represents meeting fees and
gratuities as approved by the shareholders of the Company in their annual
general meeting.
Loans to directors
There are no loans to directors.
24. Finance costs
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
------------
1999
<S> <C>
Interest income - bank interest ............................ $ 3,196
-------
Net foreign exchange transaction losses .................... 4,624
Interest expense
- bank interest ......................................... 1,023
- related party borrowings .............................. 99
- finance leases ........................................ 11,500
-------
$12,622
=======
</TABLE>
25. Other expenses
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
------------
1999
<S> <C> <C>
Provision for unclaimed taxes (note 10) ......................... $ 11,542
Provision for loss on equipment (note 12) ....................... 5,105
Provision for loss on collection from other receivable .......... (558)
Provision for loss on office equipment which will not be
used in the future (note 12) ................................. 1,966
Annual leave compensation ....................................... 307
Provision for loss on subscriber-based television network
equipment under concession agreement (note 13) ............... 57
--------
$ 18,419
========
</TABLE>
26. Abnormal non-recurring items
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
------------
1999
<S> <C>
Provision for loss on probable claim from purchaser relating to
value of assets sold in prior year (notes 8, 18) .............. $5,017
------
Total ............................................................ $5,017
------
</TABLE>
F-72
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
27. Basic and diluted loss per share
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
------------
1999
<S> <C>
US$ per share
Net loss attributable to shareholders .............................. 91,097
Weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue (thousands) .... 642,556
Basic and diluted loss per share ................................... 0.14
</TABLE>
28. Cash generated from operations
Reconciliation of loss before tax to cash generated from operations
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
------------
1999
<S> <C>
Loss before tax and interest .............................................. $(81,671)
Adjustment for:
Depreciation (Note 12) ................................................. 22,123
Amortisation (Note 13) ................................................. 26,932
Amortisation of costs of subscriber based television networks (Note 13) ... 1,426
Unrealised gain on exchange rate .......................................... 3,247
Net loss of minority interest in subsidiaries ............................. (764)
Decrease in provision for loss on subscriber based television
network which will not be used ......................................... (779)
Decrease in provision for loss on motion picture films which
may not be able to generate earnings ................................... (1,947)
Changes in working capital (excluding the effects of acquisition)
Increase in allowance for doubtful accounts ............................... 7,953
Increase in allowance for obsolete inventories ............................ 916
Increase in provision for equipment losses ................................ 4,943
Increase in provision for equipment which will not be
used in the future ..................................................... 1,903
Provision for probable losses on collection from other receivables ........ 11,542
Increase in customer claim ................................................ 5,017
Increase in accounts and notes receivable ................................. (3,851)
Increase in inventories ................................................... (2,468)
Increase in amount due from related parties ............................... (1,207)
Decrease in VAT refundable ................................................ 17,597
Decrease in allowance for unclaimed taxes
Decrease in other current assets .......................................... (34,501)
Decrease in deposits and other assets ..................................... (114)
Decrease in accounts payable .............................................. (4,255)
Increase in advance from customer ......................................... 1,362
Increase in accrued expenses .............................................. 1,273
Decrease in accounts payable and accrued expenses - related parties ....... (6,792)
Increase in advances from related parties ................................. (14,963)
Decrease in other current liabilities and other liabilities ............... (783)
--------
Cash generated from operations ............................................ $(47,861)
========
</TABLE>
F-73
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
29. Acquisition
On May 4, 1998 the Company acquired certain subsidiaries, 97.85% of UBC
Cable Network Public Company Limited and 99.99% of Cineplex Company Limited.
Details of net assets acquired and goodwill are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
------------
1999
<S> <C>
Purchase consideration:
Cash paid
UBC Cable Network Public Company Limited ................... $ 37,730
Cineplex Co., Ltd .......................................... 10,842
--------
Purchase consideration ........................................ 48,572
--------
Fair value of net assets/(liabilities) acquired:
UBC Cable Network Public Company Limited ................... (6,089)
Cineplex Co., Ltd .......................................... 3,247
--------
Net assets/(liabilities) acquired ............................. (2,842)
--------
Goodwill charged to reserves
UBC Cable Network Public Company Limited ................... 43,819
Cineplex Co., Ltd .......................................... 7,595
--------
Goodwill charged to reserves on acquisition of subsidiaries ... $ 51,414
--------
</TABLE>
No fair value adjustments were required to the book value of net assets
acquired as in management's opinion book value approximated fair value at the
date of acquisition.
A restructuring charge of US$830,000 was made in the prior year and
utilised in the year (note 18).
The book value of assets and liabilities acquired on the acquisitions of
UBC Cable Network Public Company Limited and Cineplex Company Limited were as
follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
------------
1999
<S> <C>
Cash in hand and at banks ....................................... $ 2,006
Short term investments .......................................... --
Accounts and notes receivable - net ............................. 5,058
Short-term loans and advances to related parties ................ 2,473
Inventories - net ............................................... 282
Other current assets ............................................ 3,515
Leasehold building improvements and equipment - net ............. 6,166
Cost of subscriber-based television network under concession
agreement - net .............................................. 2,386
Deferred charges - net .......................................... 6,713
Others .......................................................... 369
Accounts payable and accrued expenses ........................... (16,783)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses-related parties ........... (4,602)
Short term loans and advances from related parties .............. (5,832)
Other current liabilities ....................................... (1,201)
Other liabilities ............................................... (3,392)
Minority interests in subsidiaries .............................. --
--------
Fair value of net liabilities ................................... (2,842)
Goodwill ........................................................ 51,414
--------
Total purchase consideration .................................... 48,572
Less: Cash and cash equivalents in subsidiaries acquired ........ (2,006)
--------
Net cash outflow on acquisition ................................. $ 46,566
--------
</TABLE>
F-74
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
29. Acquisition (continued)
In the year ended March 31, 1999 the Company acquired an additional 13.22%
in Satellite Services Company Limited as follows (refer to note 2b):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Interest Share of
acquired Shares Consideration Net assets Goodwill
-------- ----------- ------------ ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
July 1, 1998 ......... 4.72% 13,600,000 $ 2,859 $ 1,651 $ 1,208
May 6, 1998 .......... 8.5% 200,000,000 51,348 50,697 651
----------- ------------ ------------ ------------
213,600,000 $ 54,207 $ 52,348 $ 1,859
----------- ------------ ------------ ------------
</TABLE>
July 1, 1998 was the date that the Company became the legal registered
owner of the shares. The shares were acquired from a suspended finance company
and the valuation attributed to the shares and the consideration paid were
determined based on the net assets of the subsidiary as at January 31, 1998.
Goodwill arising on acquisition has been charged against shareholders'
equity as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
------------
1999
<S> <C>
UBC Cable Network Public Company Limited ................... $43,819
Cineplex Company Limited ................................... 7,595
Satellite Services Company Limited ......................... 1,859
-------
Total goodwill charged to reserves ......................... $53,273
-------
</TABLE>
30. Financial instruments and foreign currency risk management
In order to mange the risks arising from fluctuations in currency exchange
rates the Company and the Group adopt the following foreign currency risk
management practices:
- - entering onto foreign exchange contracts
- - to the extent that approval is granted by the Bank of Thailand the Company
retains funds raised in US dollars from capital increases and loans from
foreign shareholders in US dollars
- - negotiating payment terms for foreign currency settlements on an
individual transaction basis
- - negotiating with foreign suppliers to share the foreign exchange exposure
Transaction risk is calculated in each foreign currency and is projected
six months forward. Exchange rates are monitored and forecasting information
supplied by recognised research and financial analysis enterprises is used to
estimate the future exchange rates. These are compared against premiums on
forward exchange contracts and after making adjustments for the related risk a
decision is taken on whether to cover foreign currency transactions.
Transactions if hedged with forward exchange contracts are not hedged on a
net basis but rather on a transaction by transaction basis.
At March 31, 1999 the Company and its subsidiaries had outstanding foreign
currency assets and liabilities as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
----------------
1999
Currency Million
<S> <C>
Assets
US dollars ............................................. 51.03
Liabilities
US dollars ............................................. 59.34
</TABLE>
Foreign currency assets represent US dollar deposits with foreign and
local banks for the future payments of foreign currency liabilities, whilst the
above foreign currency liabilities represent trade accounts payable and advances
from related companies.
The foreign currency liabilities have been hedged using the foreign
currency assets above.
Effects derived from changes in the exchange rate between March 31, 1999
and August 6, 1999 to the financial position and results of operations of the
Group due to outstanding unhedged foreign currency assets and liabilities as at
March 31, 1999 are not significant.
F-75
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
31. Commitments and contingent liabilities
The Company and a subsidiary, UBC Cable Network Public Company Limited,
have concession agreements with the Mass Communications Organization of Thailand
("MCOT") to provide subscriber-based television services. Under the terms of
agreements, dated April 17, 1989 and June 6, 1994 respectively and amendments
dated May 19, 1994 and November 9, 1994 respectively which will expire on
September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2019 respectively, the Company and its
subsidiary have certain commitments, including to acquire, install, manage and
maintain the subscriber-based television service systems and to transfer to MCOT
all headend and studio equipment pertaining to such systems. In addition, the
company and the subsidiary are committed to pay annual benefits to MCOT at the
rate of 6.5% of certain revenues or the minimum amount as prescribed in the
agreements.
The minimum revenue share under the Company's concession is US$10,849
thousand of which US$1,522 million had been paid at March 31, 1999. The minimum
revenue share under the subsidiary's concession is US$15,215 thousand of which
approximately US$1,323 thousand had been paid at March 31, 1999. No accrual is
made in the financial statements for remaining unpaid minimum fees as management
is of the opinion that payments will be made on the revenue percentage basis as
a period cost in the ordinary course of business.
Capital and other commitments
Capital expenditure contracted for at the balance sheet date but not
recognised in the financial statements is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Consolidated
------------
1999
<S> <C>
US$ thousand
(Baht contracts)
DTH equipment ........................................... 851
Intangible assets - Programming ......................... 28,274
(US$ contracts)
Intangible assets - Programming .......................... 1,690
((pound) contracts)
Intangible assets - Programming ......................... 210
</TABLE>
At March 31, 1999 the Company and its subsidiaries had commitments with
overseas suppliers to acquire television programming via satellite. Costs of
programmes acquired are varied by the number of subscribers.
At March 31, 1999 the Company and its subsidiaries had commitments with
banks whereby the latter issued letters of guarantees in respect of customs
duties and other transactions in the ordinary course of business amounting to
approximately US$1,099 thousand.
At March 31, 1999 the Group had commitments under business agreements with
major local and overseas suppliers amounting to US$2,826 thousand.
The Company has entered into agreements with a company to receive
satellite uplink services for a remaining period until December 2003 with an
option to renew. The Company is committed to pay for services in respect of the
agreement in the amount of approximately US$68 thousand per month. The Company
providing the satellite uplink services was related to the Company until 29
January 1999.
Commitments with related parties
Significant commitments with related parties are as follows:
(a) Three subsidiary companies have entered into agreements to receive
consulting and management services from the Company until terminated by either
party. These subsidiaries are committed to pay fees to the Company in respect of
the said agreements amounting to approximately US$35 thousand per month.
(b) A subsidiary company has entered into a license agreement to broadcast
movie programs, drama programs and other programs with another subsidiary
company for a period of 5 years which expires on May 31, 2002 with an opinion to
renew. This subsidiary is committed to pay fees in respect of the said agreement
which are varied by the number of customers.
(c) The Company has entered into a Digital Direct-To-Home agreement with a
subsidiary to receive services relating to data encryption and modulation and
conditional access control, for a period of 10 years, which expires on May 31,
2005 with an option to renew. Other than the entry fee and connection fee which
have already been paid to the subsidiary, the Company is committed to pay
monthly fee for the aforesaid services which are variable by the number of
customers.
F-76
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
31. Commitments and contingent liabilities (continued)
(d) A subsidiary has entered into a multimedia network service agreement
with a related company for a period of 5 years which expires on February 16,
2003, with an option to renew. The subsidiary is committed to pay fees in
respect of the agreement amounting to approximately US$1,720 thousand per month
where subscribers connected to network do not exceed 165,000. The excess of
165,000 subscribers will be charged at the rate of US$3.70 per subscriber per
month.
(e) At March 31, 1999 the Company was contingently liable to a bank for
guaranteeing a related company in respect of business contracts amounting to
approximately US$686 thousand.
(f) The Company has entered into an agreement with a shareholder to
receive consulting and management services for a period of two years. The
Company is committed to paying an annual fee of US$1,588 thousand.
(g) In March 1997, a Company's subsidiary, UBC Cable, (formerly UTV Cable
Network Public Company Limited), which became the Company's subsidiary as from
May 4, 1998, sold its multimedia network and associated assets to a related
company. Under the terms of the sale and purchase agreement, both parties agreed
to adjust the selling price to the appraisal value to be determined by an
independent appraiser. As at March 31, 1999 the management of UBC Cable has set
up a provision of approximately US$5,182 thousand to cover the difference
between the selling price, approximately US$65,688 thousand, and the lower
appraised value of assets, approximately US$60,506 thousand (note 18).
As part of the sale of the multimedia network and associated assets
discussed in the previous paragraph, UBC Cable also assigned its rights and
obligations to the aforesaid related company in respect of agreements with
contracts or relating to the buildout of the multimedia network. Under the terms
of the assignment UBC Cable guarantees the obligations assigned. UBC Cable has
full recourse against the assignee. Management do not have access to sufficient
information to reliably quantify the potential obligations under the guarantees.
As of August 6, 1999, management are not aware of any claims resulting from such
guarantees.
Litigation
On 1 July, 1998 the Company received a summons in relation to an action
brought by Thai Sky TV ("TST") in the civil court in Thailand against Shinawatra
Satellite Public Company Limited ("SSA"), Satellite Services Company Limited,
("SSV"), C. S. Communications Company Limited ("CSC") and the Company. TST
claims that each of them is jointly and severally liable in tort in relation to
the alleged unlawful cancellation by SSA of two transponder use agreements, the
alleged unlawful cancellation by SSV of a digital direct-to-home service
agreement and a signal compression agreement and the alleged unlawful
cancellation by SSA of two transponder use agreements. It is further alleged
that at about the same time as these agreements were terminated, the first three
defendants worked with the Company to broadcast advertisements encouraging TST's
customers to subscribe to the television services provided by the Company. The
total amount claimed by TST is Baht 125,614 million (US$3,328,870 thousand)
comprising:
(a) Baht 2,924 million (US$77,372 thousand) in respect of loss of future
profits expected to be earned over the remaining 19 years of TST's concession
from the Mass Communication Organization of Thailand based on the number of
TST's subscribers at the time of the termination of the agreements
(approximately 15,000).
(b) Baht 122,648 million (US$3,245,396 thousand) in respect of loss of
future profits over that period assuming increases in the number of subscribers
at the rate of 60,000 per annum.
(c) Baht 442 million (US$11,700 thousand) in respect of sums expended on
programming rights which could not be used.
On October 6, 1998, the civil court cancelled the law suit filed by TST
against SSV and asked both parties to settle the claim through an arbitrator.
No provision for the above claims has been set up in the financial
statements of the Company or its subsidiary, SSV, as the management of the
Company and SSV are of the opinion that the TST claims are groundless and that,
based on their considerable experience in the subscription television business,
the methodology used in computing TST's damages is fundamentally misconceived
and unsustainable.
F-77
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
31. Commitments and contingent liabilities (continued)
Operating lease commitments - where a group company is the lessee
The future minimum lease payments under non cancellable operating leases
are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1999
-------
<S> <C> <C>
Not later than 1 year .......................................... $21,308
Later than 1 year and not later than 5 years ................... 47,322
Later than 5 years ............................................. 1,746
-------
............................................................... $70,376
-------
</TABLE>
32. Reconciliation to United States Generally Accepted Accounting Principles
The Group's consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance
with accounting principles generally accepted in Thailand ("Thai GAAP"), which
differ in certain respects from United States generally accepted accounting
principles ("US GAAP"). These differences are described below together, where
appropriate, with an explanation of the method used to determine the adjustments
attributable to group shareholders and shareholders' equity as at and for the
year ended December 31, 1998.
The following statement summarises the material adjustments, gross of
their tax effect, which reconcile the net profit attributable to group
shareholders amount and the equity shareholders'funds amount under Thai GAAP to
the amounts which would have been reported had US GAAP been applied.
Reconciliation of net income:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Notes 1999
---------
<S> <C>
Net loss attributable to group shareholders under
Thai GAAP ............................................ $(91,097)
US GAAP adjustments:
Goodwill ............................................. (a) (11,539)
Pre-operating costs .................................. (b) 1,201
Restructuring provision .............................. (c) (833)
---------
Net loss under US GAAP ............................... (102,268)
Foreign currency translation adjustment .............. 24,284
---------
Comprehensive and net income under US GAAP ........... (77,984)
---------
Basic and diluted loss per ordinary share under US GAAP $(0.12)
---------
Number of shares used to calculate basic and
diluted earnings per ordinary share (thousands) ..... 642,556
---------
Reconciliation of shareholders'equity:
March 31, 1999
--------------
Equity shareholders' funds under Thai GAAP ............ 113,744
US GAAP adjustments:
Goodwill ............................................ (a) 51,825
Pre-operating costs ................................... (b) (1,171)
---------
Shareholders' equity under US GAAP .................... $ 164,398
---------
</TABLE>
(a) Goodwill
Under Thai GAAP, goodwill on the acquisition of a subsidiary or associated
undertaking can be charged against reserves. Under US GAAP, goodwill is
capitalised as an intangible fixed asset and amortised against net income over
its estimated economic life of 5 years. The amount of goodwill capitalised under
US GAAP amounted to US$64,856 thousand at March 31, 1999 and the accumulated
amortisation adjustment amounted to US$13,031 thousand at March 31, 1999. The
amount of goodwill amortisation charged to the statement of loss under US GAAP
for the year ended March 31, 1999 was US$11,539 thousand.
F-78
<PAGE>
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(continued)
32. Reconciliation to United States Generally Accepted Accounting Principles
(continued)
(b) Deferred charges
Under Thai GAAP, the Group capitalises pre-operating costs being operating
costs incurred prior to the commencement of commercial pay tv services, and
amortises such pre-operating costs over 5 years. Under US GAAP such
pre-operating costs are expensed as incurred. Adjustments of the amounts
reportable under Thai GAAP would result in a reduction of gross deferred charges
by US$4,977 thousand at March 31,1999 and a decrease in accumulated amortisation
of US$3,806 thousand at March 31,1999 and a reduction in the amortisation charge
for the year of US$1,201.
(c) Restructuring charges
Under Thai GAAP there is no specific standard for restructuring charges
and the Group recognised the restructuring charge anticipated to be incurred as
a result of the acquisition of UBC Cable Public Network Company Limited when the
Board of Directors ratified and approved the acquisitions. Under US GAAP
restructuring charges related to costs for involuntary employee terminations and
other exit costs are recognised when a business combination is consummated and
the criteria of Emerging Issues Task Force consensus 95-3 "Recognition of
liabilities in connection with a purchase combination" are met.
33. Year 2000 (unaudited by the auditor)
The Year 2000 problem arises because many computerized systems use two
digits rather than four to identify year. Date-sensitive systems may recognize
the year 2000 as some other date, resulting in errors when information using
year 2000 dates is processed. Entities may recognize the effects of the Year
2000 problem before, on, or after January 1, 2000, and the effects on operations
and financial reporting, if not addressed and repaired properly and on a timely
basis, may range from minor errors to significant systems failure which could
affect an entity's ability to conduct normal business operations. In addition,
it is not possible to be certain that all aspects of the Year 2000 problem
affecting the entity, including those related to the efforts of customers,
suppliers, or other third parties, will be fully resolved.
The Company and its subsidiaries have established a working committee
comprising members from the executive management, the project office manager of
the information systems department and representatives from all work units to
study the existing computer systems, applications and hardware, to develop a
computer remediation plan for the Year 2000 Project. As at August 6, 1999, the
computer remedy project had not been complete. Estimated expenditure of the
computer remedy project for the Company and its subsidiaries amounts to
approximately Baht 21.54 million (US$570 thousand), comprising:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
US $'000
<S> <C>
- -- Upgrade and replacement of hardware and software 252
--------
- -- Other related expenditure 318
--------
570
--------
</TABLE>
Expenses incurred in the year ended March 31, 1999 for the Year 2000
project amounted to Approximately US$100 thousand. Expenditure of the computer
remedy project will be recorded as assets if replacement of computer systems,
applications and hardware are made; and will be recorded as period costs when
incurred if modifications for year 2000 compliance are made. Although the
computer remedy project of the Company and its subsidiaries is expected to be
completed and implemented before the year 2000, the Company and its subsidiaries
still face risks that other parties with which the Company and its subsidiaries
do business may be unsuccessful in their computer remedy projects within the
time limit. The company and its subsidiaries, however, expect that the impact,
if any, will not be significant to the operations of the Company and its
subsidiaries.
F-79
