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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended January 31, 1998
Commission file number: 1-8366
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
Commonwealth of the Bahamas None
(State or Other Jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
Incorporation or Organization) Identification No.)
421 Comstock Road, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M1L 2H5
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code (416) 755-2231
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Name of Each Exchange
Title of Each Class on Which Registered
------------------- -------------------
Common Shares, $.0167 Par Value Boston Stock Exchange
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: Same
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 if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405
of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the
best of Registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements
incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this
Form 10-K [ ]
The aggregate market value of the Registrant's voting stock held by
non-affiliates of the Registrant, computed by reference to the average bid and
ask prices of such stock as of March 31, 1998: $8,352,488.
The number of Common Shares outstanding as of March 31, 1998: 2,996,897.
Documents Incorporated By Reference
Portions of the Registrant's Annual Report to Shareholders for the fiscal year
ended January 31, 1998, are incorporated by reference into Part II.
Portions of the Registrant's definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting
of Shareholders to be held on June 19, 1998, are incorporated by reference into
Part III.
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PART I
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
--------
Introduction
- ------------
Polydex Pharmaceuticals Limited (the "Registrant") was incorporated
under the laws of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas on June 14, 1979 as Polydex
Chemicals Limited, and changed its name on March 28, 1984. The address of its
statutory office in the Bahamas is c/o Higgs & Johnson, 83 Shirley Street,
Nassau, Bahamas: telephone (242) 322-8571. The Registrant's current business is
conducted through two of its subsidiaries, Polydex Chemicals (Canada) Limited, a
wholly-owned Canadian corporation incorporated in 1969, which itself conducts
its business through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Dextran Products Limited
("Dextran Products") (incorporated in Ontario in 1966) and Chemdex, Inc.
("Chemdex"), a 90% owned Kansas corporation incorporated in 1987. On November
30, 1992, Chemdex acquired from Continental Grain Company 100% of the issued and
outstanding share capital of Veterinary Laboratories Inc. ("Vet Labs"), a Kansas
corporation, which previously had been wholly-owned by the Registrant. On
December 1, 1992, Vet Labs and Sparhawk Laboratories Inc. ("Sparhawk") entered
into a joint venture (the "Sparhawk Joint Venture") for the purpose of
manufacturing and selling veterinary pharmaceutical products. Sparhawk is an
affiliated company owned primarily by the management of the Sparhawk Joint
Venture. The Registrant controls the Sparhawk Joint Venture through its control
of the board of directors. On May 9, 1995, the Registrant acquired from its then
Chairman (now Vice-Chairman), Thomas C. Usher, a 90% interest in Novadex
International Inc. ("Novadex International"), a Bahamian corporation. The
Registrant acquired the remaining 10% interest in Novadex International from an
unaffiliated third person on July 14, 1997. The principal asset of Novadex
International is a patent, developed by Mr. Usher, for the use of Cellulose
Sulphate in a number of applications including the development of a new
contraceptive gel.
General
- -------
The current business of the Registrant is the manufacture and sale of
Dextran and several of its derivatives, including Iron Dextran and Dextran
Sulphate, veterinary pharmaceutical products and other specialty chemicals, and
cosmetic raw materials, with some related research and development.
Dextran, a generic name applied to certain synthetic compounds formed
by bacterial growth on sucrose, is a polymer or giant molecule. The name Polydex
combines the words "polymer" and "dextran."
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Description, Usage and Regulated Aspects of the Products
- --------------------------------------------------------
The operations of the Registrant are presently carried on through
Dextran Products and Vet Labs. These subsidiaries operate principally in one
industry: the manufacture of veterinary pharmaceutical products.
Iron Dextran
- ------------
A. Description
-----------
Iron Dextran is a derivative of Dextran produced by complexing Iron
with Dextran. Iron Dextran is injected into most pigs at birth as a treatment
for anemia.
B. Regulation and Usage
--------------------
Sales presently are being made by the Registrant in the following
countries, which have approved the use of Iron Dextran for animals, require no
approval, or accept the Canadian registration: Canada (registration number
R625), Denmark, France, Switzerland, Hong Kong, Germany, the Netherlands,
Finland, Ecuador, Thailand, Hungary, Malaysia, the Philippines, Japan, Brazil,
Korea, Spain, Sweden, Israel, New Zealand, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Australia. In
the United States, sale for veterinary use requires the approval of the U.S.
Food and Drug Administration (the "FDA"). Chemdex has FDA approval for
veterinary use of Iron Dextran in the United States. For classification
purposes, the Registrant treats these sales of the Iron Dextran raw materials as
sales of Iron Dextran.
Dextran Sulphate
- ----------------
A. Description
-----------
Dextran Sulphate is a specialty chemical which finds use in research
applications of the pharmaceutical industry and other centers of chemical
research.
B. Regulation and Usage
--------------------
The Dextran Sulphate manufactured by the Registrant is sold in
Australia, Switzerland, France, the Netherlands, New Zealand and the United
States, where it is used in limited quantities in the manufacture of film, as
well as analytical chemical applications. This usage requires no regulatory
approval.
Veterinary Products
- -------------------
A. Description
-----------
The Registrant manufactures tablets and boluses, internal and external
solutions, ointments, powders and sterile injectable products.
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B. Regulation and Usage
--------------------
The products are sold in the United States and are used by large
animal veterinarians and by farmers for the treatment of various diseases and
conditions that affect farm animals. The Vet Labs facility is regulated and
inspected by the FDA and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency.
Sales, Distribution and Reliance Upon Foreign Countries
- -------------------------------------------------------
Iron Dextran and Dextran Sulphate
- ---------------------------------
The Registrant sells Iron Dextran on an exclusive basis in certain
countries and on a non-exclusive basis elsewhere. Dextran Sulphate is sold on a
non-exclusive basis throughout the world. For the fiscal year ended January 31,
1998, no single customer accounted for 10% or more of total sales.
The Registrant has not changed its mode of distribution of Iron Dextran
or Dextran Sulphate during the past twelve fiscal years. The Registrant sells
its product primarily to independent distributors and wholesalers throughout the
world. Orders are forwarded to the Registrant's manufacturing facilities in
Toronto, Ontario, Canada where they are processed and shipped. The Canadian
Embassies and Consulates in various countries also assist the Registrant by
making available information regarding the Registrant and its products.
Veterinary Products
- -------------------
All of the sales of Vet Labs for the fiscal year ended January 31, 1998
were within the United States. Distribution is achieved through private label
buying groups who then distribute to their own distributors, and through full
service independent distributors who purchase products under Vet Labs' house
labels. Private label products accounted for approximately 79% of sales with
house label sales contributing approximately 16%. In addition, Vet Labs also
does "contract filling" for other industry companies. Four customers (all
private label buying groups) accounted for 61% of sales at Vet Labs, with
individual customer shares ranging from 3% to 17%. Management does not believe
that the loss of any one or more of these customers would have a material
adverse effect upon Vet Labs' results of operations.
Working Capital Requirements
- ----------------------------
There are no special inventory requirements or credit terms extended to
customers that would have a material adverse effect upon the Registrant's
working capital.
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Patents, Trademarks and Licenses
- --------------------------------
Iron Dextran
- ------------
Effective February 1, 1995, the Registrant entered into an agreement
with Novadex Inc., an affiliated company, whereby Novadex Inc. granted the
Registrant the exclusive worldwide license to use a certain process developed by
Novadex Inc. for producing Iron Dextran. This process allows the Registrant to
produce Iron Dextran at a lower cost than would otherwise be possible. The term
of the license agreement is 10 years. The Registrant pays a license fee based on
production volumes. Upon the expiration of the license, the technology relating
to the process described above will belong to the Registrant, with no further
obligation to make royalty payments to Novadex Inc.
The technology in the field of Dextran and its derivatives is
undergoing continuous expansion and development. The manufacture of Dextran and
its derivatives may be achieved by different processes and variations (including
glycoside, which is in the public domain). Therefore, the Registrant does not
believe that the license agreement described above gives it any substantial
competitive advantage.
Dextran Sulphate
- ----------------
This material was patented under U.S. patent number 4,855,410 in
August, 1989 and has been tested with other drugs for efficacy in controlling
the HIV virus. At this time research has been halted so that the Registrant can
focus its resources on projects relating to cystic fibrosis and Cellulose
Sulphate. Once these projects have been completed, the Registrant expects to
return its attention to Dextran Sulphate.
Veterinary Products
- -------------------
Vet Labs holds a New Animal Drug Application from the FDA for the
production of both 10% Bulk Iron Hydrogenated Dextran and 10% Injectable Iron
Hydrogenated Dextran.
Elastin and Collagen
- --------------------
These materials were patented under U.S. patent numbers 4,659,740 and
4,784,986 on April 21, 1987 and November 15, 1988, respectively. The patents
cover a process whereby the materials are modified in such a way as to penetrate
the skin and act as a hydrating agent.
Cellulose Sulphate
- ------------------
During the fiscal year ended January 31, 1996, a patent for a new
method of manufacture of Cellulose Sulphate was purchased for $1 million. The
process was patented under U.S. patent number 5,378,828 in June of 1995. Prior
to development of the
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patented process the manufacture of the compound required the use of dangerous
and environmentally sensitive chemicals. The new method is safer, and appears to
produce a more consistent product. This material appears to have applications in
film manufacture and capsule production and is presently being investigated in
conjunction with the Rush Institute of the University of Chicago as a potential
contraceptive which also has antiviral capabilities. With regard to the latter
application, the Registrant is looking to perform human clinical trials and to
this end most of the animal toxicology work necessary for the filing of an
Investigation New Drug (IND) has been completed. The IND will be filed when all
of the work is complete.
Cystic Fibrosis
- ---------------
Effective April 1, 1994, the Registrant entered into a Research
Agreement (the "UBC Research Agreement") with an affiliated company and the
University of British Columbia ("UBC"). On April 1, 1996, the UBC Research
Agreement was amended and expanded to include a number of Canadian hospitals.
Under the terms of the UBC Research Agreement, the Registrant has agreed to
provide equipment and funding in return for continuing research on cystic
fibrosis to be carried out in connection with two patents issued in 1996. U.S.
patent number 5,441,938 is held jointly by UBC and the Registrant, whereas U.S.
patent number 5,514,665 is held by UBC and licensed to the Registrant. In
conjunction with the UBC Research Agreement, UBC granted the Registrant, through
a sub-licensing agreement with an affiliated company, an exclusive worldwide
license to manufacture, distribute and sell products derived or developed from
the research performed. The Registrant will pay a quarterly royalty, based on
sales.
Status of New Products or Industry Segments
- -------------------------------------------
There has been no public announcement of, and no information otherwise
has been made public about, a new product or industry segment that would require
the investment of a material amount of the assets of the Registrant or that
otherwise is material.
Suppliers and Sales
- -------------------
Iron Dextran and Dextran Sulphate
- ---------------------------------
With regard to its basic raw materials, the Registrant utilizes one
basic supplier for its sugar requirements and one basic supplier for its Iron.
Both of these materials, as well as others used by the Registrant, are readily
available from numerous suppliers at competitive prices in the market. The
Registrant has no long-term contracts with any of its suppliers.
The Registrant is dependent upon a single source for a certain raw
material used in the production of Dextran Sulphate. Such supply was adequate in
fiscal 1998 and no shortages are anticipated in the near term. However, any
curtailment in
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availability of such raw material could be accompanied by production or other
delays as well as increased raw material costs, with consequent adverse effect
on the Registrant's results of operations.
Veterinary Products
- -------------------
Raw materials are readily available from a variety of suppliers at
competitive prices in the market. The Registrant has no long-term contracts with
any of its suppliers.
Backlog and Seasonality
- -----------------------
The Registrant's backlog as at January 31, 1998 was approximately
$1,000,000, whereas backlog as at January 31, 1997 was approximately $700,000.
All of these orders are expected to be filled within the current fiscal year.
The Registrant's business is not seasonal to any material extent.
Competition
- -----------
The Registrant is the only Canadian manufacturer of Iron Dextran and,
as a result of its acquisition of Vet Labs, the Registrant is also the only
manufacturer in the United States. There exist several European sources of Iron
Dextran. However, the only other major supplier of Iron Dextran is located in
Denmark. Dextran Sulphate is also manufactured by several manufacturers in the
U.S. and Europe. With regard to Iron Dextran and Dextran Sulphate, the
Registrant competes on the basis of quality, service and price.
The Registrant currently produces approximately 50 veterinary products
including analgesics, anti-diarrheals, topical antiseptics, nutritional
supplements, local and general anesthesia agents and euthanizing agents. Primary
market segments include beef and dairy cattle, swine, equine and to a small
extent, companion animals (dogs and cats). With the exception of Iron Dextran
and Nitrofurazone ointment, the product offering is generic or non-licensed (non
NADA). As such, all products are subject to numerous competitors. In addition to
competing on the basis of quality, service and price, the Registrant
differentiates itself from competitors through its ability to supply multiple
product dosage forms (i.e., injectables, boluses, tablets, liquids and powders)
and provide customers with technical and regulatory support and assistance from
in-house quality control and regulatory departments.
Research and Development
- ------------------------
During the fiscal years ended January 31, 1998, 1997, and 1996, the
Registrant expended $184,901, $92,063 and $314,149, respectively, on research
and development relating primarily to cystic fibrosis and Cellulose Sulphate.
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Environmental Compliance
- ------------------------
The Registrant believes that it is in substantial compliance with all
existing applicable foreign, federal, state and local environmental laws and
does not anticipate that such compliance will have a material effect on its
future capital expenditures, earnings or competitive position.
Governmental Contracts
- ----------------------
No portion of the Registrant's business is subject to renegotiation of
profits or termination of contracts or subcontracts at the election of the U.S.
Government.
Employees
- ---------
As of March 31, 1998, the Registrant employed 79 employees, of whom 51
were engaged in production, 14 in quality control, 3 in research and
development, 6 in administration and 5 in marketing and sales activities. Of
such employees, 53 were employed by Vet Labs and 26 by Dextran Products. None of
the Registrant's employees are covered by collective bargaining agreements.
Management considers its relations with employees to be good.
Recent Developments -- New Products
- -----------------------------------
Activated Collagen and Elastin
- ------------------------------
Collodex, a modified collagen, has been formulated as a principal
ingredient of a cosmetic skin cream. During fiscal 1998, the Registrant engaged
several marketing companies for the promotion of this product. To date, efforts
by these companies have met with limited success. At the present time, minor
sales are being made to cosmetic manufacturers in the Pacific Rim with the
potential for increased sales in the future.
Elastin, a material with similar applications, has been developed by
the Registrant. It has not been commercialized, however, and no sales are
expected to occur in the current fiscal year.
Cystic Fibrosis
- ---------------
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease which causes a cascade of effects,
the most severe being a build up of mucus in the lungs. This mucus is difficult
to remove and also permits the colonization of bacteria which then cause
secondary infections and often death. Research relating to cystic fibrosis is
underway in collaboration with the University of British Columbia where in vitro
studies are being performed. This research has shown that a special form of
Dextran, Usherdex 4, is effective in preventing the colonization of bacteria in
the mouth and in stimulating the macrophages in the lungs to remove the bacteria
present and lessen secondary infections. The Registrant is in
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preliminary discussions with certain companies about financing or forming an
alliance to further this research through clinical trials and to market,
however, the results of their discussions are indeterminable at this time.
Further animal work is being planned prior to the commencement of human clinical
trials.
Cellulose Sulphate
- ------------------
Production of this product was halted in 1989 when the customer found a
substitute. However, interest in the industrial use of Cellulose Sulphate has
been revived and samples have been supplied, but it is difficult to predict if
sales will occur this year. As discussed above, research is also underway in the
United States to evaluate the use of this material as a contraceptive gel with
antiviral capabilities. The Registrant is currently in preliminary discussions
with certain companies to fund the further research necessary to commercialize
this Cellulose Sulphate product, however, the results of these discussions are
indeterminable at the present time.
Segmented Information
- ---------------------
The information regarding the geographic distribution of revenue,
operating results and assets set forth in Note 14 to the Registrant's
Consolidated Financial Statements included in the Registrant's Annual Report to
Shareholders for the fiscal year ended January 31, 1998 is incorporated herein
by reference.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
----------
The Registrant's wholly-owned subsidiary, Polydex Chemicals (Canada)
Limited, maintains its executive and sales offices and its manufacturing plant
of approximately 30,000 square feet in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
The Registrant operates a fermentation plant in Toronto, Ontario,
Canada, having the capacity to produce both 10% and 20% Iron Dextran at the rate
of up to 10,000 litres a week (there are 1.057 quarts in one litre). Present
production is approximately 8,000 litres a week. Complexing of the Iron Dextran
takes place in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Dextran Sulphate presently is manufactured at the Registrant's plant in
Toronto, Ontario, Canada where reactors and spray drying equipment are
available. The Registrant presently manufactures approximately 500 kilos of
Dextran Sulphate per quarter (there are 2.2 pounds in one kilo), and has the
capacity to manufacture 500 kilos per month simultaneously with the 10,000
litres per week of Iron Dextran.
The Registrant has engaged the services of an engineering company to
prepare drawings in contemplation of the planned refurbishment of the Toronto
facility. These drawings are nearly complete and management expects to submit
them in connection with
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its application for a building permit in the second quarter of 1998.
Through its subsidiary Vet Labs, the Registrant manufactures tablets
and boluses, internal and external solutions, ointments, powders and injectable
products. The manufacturing facility is located on 8 acres of land in Lenexa,
Kansas. The plant is 55,000 square feet with separate production areas for each
of the above product groups. The plant has the capacity to manufacture over
200,000 boluses per day, 4,000 gallons of liquids per day, 1,500 pounds of
powder per day and 1,000 gallons of injectable products per day. The facility is
currently running at approximately 50% of capacity.
Each of the properties described above is owned by the Registrant.
Management believes that the Registrant's facilities are adequate for its
present requirements. These facilities have additional capacity for expansion of
production of existing and new products. The Registrant considers its current
equipment to be in good condition and suitable for the operations involved.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
-----------------
On May 23, 1996, FMMG, Inc. ("FMMG") filed suit against the Registrant
in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida seeking
damages for the alleged breach of an option given by the Registrant in favor of
FMMG and another company with respect to 160,000 shares of common stock in
Novatek International, Inc. previously held by the Registrant. The Registrant
has challenged the jurisdiction of the U.S. District Court by a motion to
dismiss. Should the motion to dismiss be denied, the Registrant intends to
vigorously defend the action. Discovery on the merits has been stayed pending
resolution of the motion to dismiss; accordingly, it is not possible at this
point in time to accurately predict the likelihood of an unfavorable outcome or
the magnitude of any potential damages.
There are no other material pending legal proceedings other than
ordinary routine litigation incidental to the business, to which the Registrant
or any of its subsidiaries is a party, or to which any of the their property is
subject.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
---------------------------------------------------
No matters were submitted to a vote of security holders, through the
solicitation of proxies or otherwise, during the Registrant's fourth quarter
ended January 31, 1998.
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED SHAREHOLDER
-------------------------------------------------------------
MATTERS
-------
The information contained under the caption "Market for the Company's
Common Shares and Related Shareholder Matters" in
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the Registrant's Annual Report to Shareholders for the fiscal year ended January
31, 1998 is incorporated herein by reference.
The following information is provided in addition to the information
incorporated by reference as mentioned above.
There are no governmental laws, decrees or regulations in the
Commonwealth of the Bahamas applicable to the Registrant that restrict the
export or import of capital, including foreign exchange controls, or that affect
the remittance of dividends or other payments to nonresident holders of the
Registrant's Common Shares. Furthermore, U.S. holders of the Registrant's Common
Shares are not subject to taxes under Bahamian law.
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
-----------------------
The information required under this item is included under the caption
"Financial Highlights" in the Registrant's Annual Report to Shareholders for the
fiscal year ended January 31, 1998 and is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
---------------------------------------------------------------
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
---------------------
The information required under this item is included under the caption
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations" in the Registrant's Annual Report to Shareholders for the fiscal
year ended January 31, 1998 and is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
----------------------------------------------------------
Not applicable.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
-------------------------------------------
The Registrant's Consolidated Financial Statements are included in the
Registrant's Annual Report to Shareholders for the fiscal year ended January 31,
1998 and are incorporated herein by reference. Supplementary financial
information is not required.
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
---------------------------------------------------------------
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
--------------------
Not applicable.
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PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
--------------------------------------------------
The information required under this item is incorporated herein by
reference from the material contained under the captions "Board of Directors",
"Proposals","Executive Officers" and "Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership
Reporting Compliance" in the Registrant's definitive proxy statement to be filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A, not
later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
----------------------
The information required under this item is incorporated herein by
reference from the material contained under the captions "Board of Directors",
"Board Meetings and Committees", "Compensation of Executive Officers" and
"Company Stock Performance" in the Registrant's definitive proxy statement to be
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A,
not later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
--------------------------------------------------------------
The information required under this item is incorporated herein by
reference from the material contained under the caption "Ownership of Voting
Securities" in the Registrant's definitive proxy statement to be filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A, not later than
120 days after the end of the fiscal year.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
----------------------------------------------
The information required under this item is incorporated herein by
reference from the material contained under the caption "Transactions With the
Company" in the Registrant's definitive proxy statement to be filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A, not later than
120 days after the end of the fiscal year.
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PART IV
ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON
-------------------------------------------------------
FORM 8-K
--------
(a) The following documents are filed as a part of this Annual
Report on Form 10-K:
(1) Financial Statements included in the Registrant's
Annual Report to Shareholders for the fiscal year
ended January 31, 1998 and incorporated by reference
from Exhibit 13 filed herewith
Auditors' Report to the Shareholders -- Ernst & Young
Chartered Accountants
Consolidated Balance Sheets
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity
Consolidated Statements of Operations
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(2) Financial Statement Schedules
Auditors' Report to Shareholders - KPMG Peat Marwick
Thorne
All other schedules for which provision is made in
the applicable accounting regulation of the Securities and
Exchange Commission are not required under the related
instructions or are inapplicable, and therefore, have been
omitted.
(3) Exhibits
3.1 Memorandum of Association of Polydex
Pharmaceuticals Limited, as amended (filed
as Exhibit 3.1 to the Annual Report on Form
10-K filed April 30, 1997, and incorporated
herein by reference)
3.2 Articles of Association of Polydex
Pharmaceuticals Limited, as amended (filed
as Exhibit 3.2 to the Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q filed September 9, 1997, and
incorporated herein by reference)
10.1 Employment Agreement between Polydex
Pharmaceuticals Limited and Thomas C. Usher
dated December 22, 1993, as amended on
November 1, 1996 (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to
the Annual Report on Form 10-K filed April
30, 1997, and incorporated herein by
reference)
10.2 Employment Agreement between Polydex
Pharmaceuticals Limited and George G. Usher
dated December 22, 1993 (filed as Exhibit
10.2 to the Annual Report on
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Form 10-K filed April 30, 1997, and
incorporated herein by reference)
10.3 Employment Agreement between Polydex
Pharmaceuticals Limited and Natu Patel dated
February 12, 1990 (filed as Exhibit 10.3 to
the Annual Report on Form 10-K filed April
30, 1997, and incorporated herein by
reference)
10.4 Research Agreement among Dextran Products
Limited, Canadian Microbiology Consortium,
British Columbia's Children's Hospital and
the University of British Columbia, dated
April 1, 1996 (filed as Exhibit 10.4 to the
Annual Report on Form 10-K filed April 30,
1997, and incorporated herein by reference)
10.5 Joint Venture Agreement among Chemdex, Inc.,
Veterinary Laboratories Inc. and Sparhawk
Laboratories, Inc., dated December 1, 1992
(filed as Exhibit 10.5 to the Annual Report
on Form 10-K filed April 30, 1997, and
incorporated herein by reference)
10.6 Manufacturing Agreement among Sparhawk
Laboratories, Inc., Agri Laboratories, Ltd.
and Veterinary Laboratories Inc., dated
September 23, 1996 (filed as Exhibit 10.6 to
the Annual Report on Form 10-K filed April
30, 1997, and incorporated herein by
reference)
10.7 Stock Sale and Purchase Agreement between
Continental Grain Company and Polydex
Pharmaceuticals Limited dated October 30,
1992, as amended on November 22, 1996 (filed
as Exhibit 10.8 to the Annual Report on Form
10-K filed April 30, 1997, and incorporated
herein by reference)
13 Annual Report to Shareholders for the fiscal
year ended January 31, 1998 (only those
portions incorporated herein by reference)
21 Subsidiaries of Polydex Pharmaceuticals
Limited (filed as Exhibit 21 to the Annual
Report on Form 10-K filed April 30, 1997,
and incorporated herein by reference)
23 Consent of Ernst & Young Chartered
Accountants
27 Financial Data Schedule
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(b) Reports on Form 8-K
November 7, 1997 - Item 5. Other Events. On November 4, 1997,
the Registrant announced that it had ceased negotiations to
acquire privately held Del Crane Medical, Inc. and associated
companies. The Registrant reported the announcement on a Form
8-K filed November 7, 1997.
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SIGNATURES
----------
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this Annual Report on Form 10-K to
be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Dated: April 30, 1998
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
By: /s/ George G. Usher
------------------------------------
George G. Usher, President and
Chief Executive Officer
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Annual
Report on Form 10-K has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of
the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
Date: April 30, 1998 /s/ George G. Usher
----------------------------------------
George G. Usher, Director, President
and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
Date: April 30, 1998 /s/ Sharon Wardlaw
----------------------------------------
Sharon Wardlaw, Treasurer, Secretary
and Chief Financial and Accounting
Officer (Principal Financial and
Accounting Officer)
Date: April 30, 1998 /s/ Joseph Buchman
----------------------------------------
Joseph Buchman, Director
Date: April 30, 1998 /s/ Derek John Michael Lederer
----------------------------------------
Derek John Michael Lederer, Director
Date: April 30, 1998 /s/ Natu Patel
----------------------------------------
Natu Patel, Director
Date: April 30, 1998 /s/ Thomas R. Ulie
----------------------------------------
Thomas R. Ulie, Director
Date: April 30, 1998 /s/ Ruth L. Usher
----------------------------------------
Ruth L. Usher, Director
Date: April 30, 1998 /s/ Thomas C. Usher
----------------------------------------
Thomas C. Usher, Director
<PAGE> 17
AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE SHAREHOLDERS
We have audited the consolidated balance sheets of Polydex
Pharmaceuticals Limited as at January 31, 1996 and 1995 and the related
consolidated statements of operations, shareholders' equity and cash flows for
each of the years in the three-year period ended January 31, 1996. These
financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on
our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform an 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.
In our opinion, these consolidated financial statements present fairly,
in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of January
31, 1996 and 1995, and the results of its operations and the changes in its
financial position for each of the years in the three-year period ended January
31, 1996, in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the
United States of America.
KPMG
Chartered Accountants
Toronto, Canada
April 30, 1996
<PAGE> 18
EXHIBIT INDEX
-------------
Exhibit Number Exhibit Description
- -------------- -------------------
13 Annual Report to Shareholders for the fiscal
year ended January 31, 1998 (only those
portions incorporated herein by reference)
23 Consent of Ernst & Young Chartered
Accountants
27 Financial Data Schedule
<PAGE> 1
Exhibit 13
SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION.
Market for the Company's Common Shares and Related Shareholder Matters. The
Company's Common Shares are listed for trading on the NASDAQ SmallCap Market
under the symbol POLXF, and on the Boston Stock Exchange under the symbol PXL.
The reported high and low bid prices of the Company's Common Shares on the
NASDAQ SmallCap Market for the past two calendar years were as follows (similar
prices were quoted on the Boston Stock Exchange):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Stock Price (Low and High Bid*)
Quarter Ended 1998 1997 1996
<S> <C> <C> <C>
March 31 4.125-4.250 7.190-7.810 10.313-11.250
June 30 6.250-6.500 9.375-9.688
September 30 9.750-10.000 8.125-8.750
December 31 6.813-7.438 7.188-8.438
<FN>
*As adjusted to reflect the Company's completion on June 19, 1997 of a
one-for-ten reverse stock split of its Common Shares and Class B Preferred
Shares.
</TABLE>
The quotations set out above represent prices for the specific dates between
dealers and do not include retail mark-up, mark-down or commission. They do not
represent actual transactions. These quotations have been supplied by the
National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
As at March 31, 1998 there were approximately 829 holders of record of the
Company's Common Shares.
The Company has paid no dividends in the past and does not consider likely the
payment of any dividends in the foreseeable future.
Form 10-K and Further Information.
The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K is available free of charge and can be
obtained by contacting Polydex Pharmaceuticals Limited.
Polydex will be pleased to respond to all inquiries not involving proprietary or
confidential information. All inquiries and contacts from investors, securities
analysts, other members of the financial community and the news media should be
directed to:
Debbie MacAskill,
Dextran Products Limited, 421 Comstock Road, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. M1L 2H5.
Tel: 416-755-2231. Fax: 416-755-0334.
<PAGE> 2
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS.
For the fiscal years ended January 31 (Expressed in U.S. dollars)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997 1996 1995 1994
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
SALES FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS $ 9,842,365 $ 9,344,089 $ 8,459,563 $ 7,254,913 $ 6,970,405
COMPONENTS OF NET INCOME (LOSS):
From continuing operations 488,162 122,390 (1,165,534) (1,034,622) (1,275,371)
From discontinued operations -- -- -- -- --
Extraordinary items -- -- -- -- --
Net income (loss) for the year 488,162 122,390 (1,165,534) (1,034,622) (1,275,371)
INCOME (LOSS) PER COMMON SHARE (1):
From continuing operations before
extraordinary items 0.17 0.04 (0.42) (0.37) (0.50)
From continuing operations after
extraordinary items 0.17 0.04 (0.42) (0.37) (0.50)
Income (loss) for the year 0.17 0.04 (0.42) (0.37) (0.50)
TOTAL ASSETS 9,740,947 8,627,517 8,064,990 8,412,596 8,182,257
LONG-TERM BORROWINGS 1,478,578 1,555,551 1,633,041 821,179 905,728
</TABLE>
- -----------------
(1) In 1998, the Company retroactively adopted the Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards Number 128 "Earnings per share" issued in February
1997 relating to the presentation of earnings per share.
<PAGE> 3
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations.
The Company's fiscal year ends on January 31st therefore fiscal year 1998 refers
to the year ended January 31, 1998.
1998 COMPARED TO 1997
- ---------------------
Sales increased 5% or $498,276 to $9,842,365 in fiscal 1998 from $9,344,089 in
fiscal 1997. The growth in sales was primarily due to a greater volume at
Veterinary Laboratories Inc. ("Vet Labs"), where sales increased by 15% or
$789,247 to $5,931,781 in fiscal 1998 from $5,142,534 in fiscal 1997, and
accounted for 60% and 55% of the Company's sales in fiscal 1998 and 1997,
respectively. This increase was primarily attributable to increased sales of
Injectable Iron Dextran and the addition of two new injectable vitamin products.
Management expects to continue its efforts to streamline the Vet Labs product
line by discontinuing low margin items and replacing them with products that
generate higher margins.
Sales at Dextran Products Limited ("Dextran Products") decreased slightly by 7%
or $290,971 to $3,910,584 in fiscal 1998 from $4,201,555 in fiscal 1997, and
accounted for 40% and 45% of the Company's sales in fiscal 1998 and 1997,
respectively. This decrease was primarily attributable to Dextran Products
drying equipment being refurbished over a period of three months thereby
reducing the sales of one of the more profitable products. A reduction in the
value of the Canadian dollar relative to the U.S. dollar accounted for almost 1%
of this decrease in sales.
Management expects the sales trend at Dextran Products to reverse due to the
drying equipment now producing an improved product and the reintroduction of a
product that had been previously discontinued.
The Company's gross profit increased 22% or $530,196 to $2,984,226 in fiscal
1998 from $2,454,030 in fiscal 1997. As a percentage of sales, gross profit
increased to 30% from 26% in fiscal 1997. This was mainly due to the performance
of both Dextran Products and Vet Labs as discussed below.
Dextran Products' gross profit increased 3% or $40,485 to $1,632,074 in fiscal
1998 from $1,591,589 in fiscal 1997. As a percentage of sales, gross profit
increased to 42% from 38% in fiscal 1997. Last year we reported a gross profit
figure of 45%, but this included the profit on intercompany sales. Intercompany
shipments have become significant and so they have been removed from the gross
profit calculation. The primary reason for the increase in gross profit was
sales of more profitable products and a reduction in certain overhead costs.
Overhead for fiscal 1997 was higher due to, among other things, the renovations
that were undertaken. The rise in margins was also partly due to the effect of
exchange rates given that Dextran Products costs are incurred in Canadian
dollars, but the majority of its sales are in U.S. dollars. Therefore if the
Canadian dollar drops in relation to the U.S. dollar, margins
<PAGE> 4
increase. In fiscal 1998 such currency fluctuations resulted in a further 1.3%
increase in margins in addition to a 2% increase for fiscal 1997. Management
does not believe there will be a similar increase in margins for fiscal 1999,
but does believe the margins will remain steady at this level.
Vet Labs' gross profit increased 51% or $296,587 to $877,106 in fiscal 1998 from
$580,519 in fiscal 1997. As a percentage of sales, gross profit increased to 15%
from 11% in fiscal 1997. This rise was primarily attributable to the increased
market penetration of Injectable Iron Dextran and the introduction of two new
injectable products which are more profitable than the other products
manufactured. It is also partly due to the continued elimination of certain low
margin products. Management expects to continue its efforts to streamline the
Vet Labs product line by discontinuing low margin products and replacing them
with products that generate higher margins. Management believes that margins
will continue to improve in fiscal 1999.
Selling, promotion, general and administrative expenses increased by 33% to
$2,001,865 in fiscal 1998 from $1,501,581 in fiscal 1997 due in part to (i)
costs associated with a marketing contract entered into in preparation for a new
product, (ii) the first full year of salary for former Chairman, Dr. Alec Keith,
(iii) corporate expenses associated with the Company's June 1997 reverse stock
split, and (iv) preparation of Exchange Act reports in accordance with the SEC's
new electronic filing system. As a percentage of sales, selling, promotion,
general, and administrative expenses increased to 20% in fiscal 1998 from 16% in
fiscal 1997.
Research and development expenses increased by 101% or $92,838 to $184,901 in
fiscal 1998 from $92,063 in fiscal 1997 due mainly to increased in house
research in the area of Cellulose Sulphate and new product development. The
Company conducts its research through collaborations with the Rush Institute and
the University of British Columbia. These institutes received additional funding
from government sources during fiscal 1998 reducing the Company's cash
requirements. Although continued government funding is never certain, the
Company expects that this funding should continue due to the success of the work
to date.
Interest expense decreased by 15% or $22,264 to $129,199 in fiscal 1998 from
$151,463 in fiscal 1997. This decrease is mainly due to the repayment of a loan
due to an officer, director and major shareholder (the "Major Shareholder")
during the year and the renegotiation of the mortgage payable at Dextran
Products. Interest and other non-operating income increased by 3% or $1,684 to
$58,313 in fiscal 1998 from $56,629 in fiscal 1996.
Unusual Items
The Company recorded a tax recovery in fiscal 1998 of $936,042 compared with a
tax expense in fiscal 1997 of $12,481. The Company utilized Canadian tax loss
carryforwards and discretionary tax deductions to shelter approximately $556,000
of taxes that would have been payable in Canada. The Company reduced the
valuation allowance by an additional $950,000. The tax recovery in fiscal 1998
is a result of (i) the sustained profitability of the Canadian operations, (ii)
the resulting ability to utilize previously unrecorded tax losses and deductions
and (iii) the expectations for continued profitability of the Canadian
operations in the future. The Company does not expect a similar recovery next
year and expects that it will likely incur a tax provision as the deferred tax
asset is reduced due to
<PAGE> 5
expected profitability of the Canadian operations. If the Company's United
States operations are able to demonstrate sustained profitability in future
years, a similar adjustment to the valuation allowance may be required relating
to the tax losses in the United States.
In fiscal 1996, the Company purchased a patent relating to the production of
Cellulose Sulphate, which had a number of potential applications including the
production of photographic film and use in contraceptives. The patents were
capitalized in fiscal 1996 as a result of their potential application in the
areas of photographic film because their use in contraceptives was considered to
be research and development due to the risks associated with obtaining
regulatory approval for any product developed. During fiscal 1998, the Company
determined that the slow commercialization of the applications in photographic
film was an indication of impairment in the carrying value as it related to this
application. Although the Company continues to pursue the photographic
applications and more importantly the applications in contraceptives with the
Rush Institute as described above, the Company believed it would be appropriate
to write-down these assets by $608,994. The Company does not expect a similar
charge in future years.
As a result of the foregoing, the Company recorded net income of $488,162 in
fiscal 1998 as compared to a net income of $122,390 in fiscal 1997.
1997 COMPARED TO 1996
- ---------------------
Sales increased 10% or $884,526 to $9,344,089 in fiscal 1997 from $8,459,563 in
fiscal 1996. The growth in sales was primarily due to a greater volume at
Dextran Products where sales rose by 29% or $952,523 to $4,201,555 in fiscal
1997 from $3,249,032 in fiscal 1996 and accounted for 45% and 38% of the
Company's sales in fiscal 1997 and 1996, respectively. This increase was
primarily attributable to increased sales of Iron Dextran 20% and Dextran
Sulphate and a new application for Iron Dextran in the feed supplement industry.
Half way through the year Dextran Products raised prices 7% to cover increased
raw material prices over the last three years, and so a small portion of this
increase in sales can be attributed to the new prices.
Management expects this sales trend to continue although perhaps not at the same
rate, due to continued increased market penetration in the Pacific Rim and the
activities of new customers in Europe.
Sales at Vet Labs decreased slightly by 1% or $67,997 to $5,142,534 in fiscal
1997 from $5,210,531 in fiscal 1996, and accounted for 55% and 62% of the
Company's sales in fiscal 1997 and 1996, respectively. The decrease was
primarily attributable to a $713,000 reduction in sales following Vet Labs'
cancellation of a manufacturing agreement with one customer which generated very
low margins. This decrease in sales was nearly offset by the increased sales
volume of injectables at much larger margins. Management expects to continue its
effort to streamline the product line by discontinuing low margin items and
replacing them with products that generate larger margins.
<PAGE> 6
The Company's gross profit increased 60% or $920,773 to $2,454,030 in fiscal
1997 from $1,533,257 in fiscal 1996. As a percentage of sales, gross profit
increased to 26% from 18% in fiscal 1996. This was mainly due to the performance
of Dextran Products as explained below.
Dextran Products' gross profit increased 69% or $762,057 to $1,873,511 in fiscal
1997 from $1,111,454 in fiscal 1996. As a percentage of sales, gross profit
increased to 45% from 34% in fiscal 1996. The primary reason for the increase
was that Dextran Products reorganized its operating process to increase volume
without affecting fixed costs. Also late in fiscal 1996 Dextran Products
purchased its building in Toronto and consolidated its operations from two
buildings into one resulting in a reduction in fixed overhead costs. Rent paid
in fiscal 1996 amounted to $116,592. Depreciation and interest relating to the
building are not included in the cost of sales, thus increasing the margin
relative to the prior years. The yearly mortgage interest for fiscal 1997 was
$20,690 and annual building depreciation was $3,471, and in fiscal 1998 these
numbers are expected to be $12,635 and $30,785, respectively. The rise in
margins was also partly due to the effect of exchange rates because Dextran
Products costs are incurred in Canadian dollars, but the majority of its sales
are in U.S. dollars. Therefore if the Canadian dollar drops in relation to the
U.S. dollar, margins increase and in fiscal 1997 this resulted in a 2% increase
in margins. Dextran Products also increased its prices midway through the year
by 7%, and so this benefited margins for part of the year. Certain equipment was
purchased during the year which increased batch sizes without increasing fixed
costs and so improved margins. Management does not believe there will be a
similar increase in margins for fiscal 1998, but does believe the margins will
remain steady at this level.
Vet Labs' gross profit increased 38% or $158,716 to $580,519 in fiscal 1997 from
$421,803 in fiscal 1996. As a percentage of sales, gross profit increased to 11%
from 8% in fiscal 1996. This rise was primarily attributable to the
discontinuance of certain low margin products and the cancellation of a
manufacturing contract with one customer where the work generated significant
sales but extremely low margins. Management expects to continue its efforts to
streamline the product line by discontinuing low margin products and replacing
them with products that generate greater margins and management believes that
for fiscal 1998 margins will continue to improve.
Selling, promotion, general and administrative expenses increased by 13% to
$1,501,581 in fiscal 1997 from $1,331,101 in fiscal 1996 due in part to variable
expenses associated with the higher sales volume. As a percentage of sales,
selling, promotion, general, and administrative expenses were 16% in fiscal 1997
and 1996.
Research and development expenses decreased by 71% or $222,086 to $92,063 in
fiscal 1997 from $314,149 in fiscal 1996. The Company conducts its research
through collaborations with the Rush Institute and the University of British
Columbia. These institutes received additional funding from government sources
during fiscal 1997 reducing the Company's cash requirements. Although continued
government funding is never certain, the Company expects that this funding
should continue due to the success of the work to date.
Interest expense increased by 15% or $20,204 to $151,463 in fiscal 1997 from
$131,259 in fiscal 1996. This increase resulted primarily from Dextran Products
obtaining a mortgage for the purchase of its Toronto facility. Interest and
other non-operating income decreased by
<PAGE> 7
26% or $19,609 to $56,629 in fiscal 1997 from $76,238 in fiscal 1996. This
decrease was primarily attributable to the Major Shareholder repaying his loan
due to the Company.
The Company's effective tax rate was 9.3% and 0.58% for fiscal 1997 and 1996
respectively, due to the utilization of previously unrecognized tax losses.
As a result of the foregoing, the Company recorded net income of $122,390 in
fiscal 1997 as compared to a net loss of $1,165,534 in fiscal 1996.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
- -------------------------------
For fiscal 1998 the Company generated cash of $196,489 from its operating
activities compared to $174,258 for fiscal 1997. This increase was primarily
attributable to an increase of net income and a reclassification of certain
items to more truly reflect the activities of the Company. The Company
maintained $1,552,100 of working capital and a current ratio of 2.10:1 as of
January 31, 1998 compared to $1,494,510 of working capital and a current ratio
of 1.96:1 as of January 31, 1997.
At January 31, 1998, the Company had accounts receivable of $932,745 and
$1,678,280 in inventory compared to $1,107,829 and $1,279,280, respectively, at
January 31, 1997. The decrease in accounts receivable was due to the timing of
accounts receivable payments at Dextran Products. Inventories were increased in
anticipation of higher first quarter sales and to allow for any production
interruptions during the anticipated plant refurbishment at Dextran Products. In
the last quarter of fiscal 1997, significant sales were experienced resulting in
an increase in receivables still outstanding at year end.
The Company is currently reviewing alternatives to address the potential
requirement on March 15, 1999, to repurchase up to $2.0 million of the common
shares held by Continental Grain Company ("CGC"). Although management expects
that a portion of this obligation could be funded from existing cash and cash
generated from operations during the next year, it is reasonably possible that
the Company will be required to obtain additional financing, such as increased
operating or term borrowing facilities or issuance of additional share capital
or alternatively will be required to re-negotiate the terms of the obligation.
CGC has expressed a willingness to review the terms of the agreement.
Dextran Products has a CDN$100,000 line of credit of which there were no
outstanding borrowings as of January 31, 1998. Pending bank approval, Dextran
Products expects to increase its line of credit to CDN$300,000 in the second
quarter of fiscal 1999. Management anticipates using the increased credit line
for the purposes of funding a portion of the costs associated with the
refurbishment of the Toronto facility. Vet Labs has a $400,000 line of credit.
At January 31, 1998, there were outstanding borrowings of $362,532 under this
line of credit and the interest rate was 10.5%. Vet Labs also has a loan
commitment for $300,000 to be used for the construction of a 12,000 square foot
production and warehouse addition. Management has decided to delay construction
until further growth warrants additional space.
<PAGE> 8
The Company anticipates that it can satisfy its fiscal 1999 operating
requirements from cash generated from operating activities. If it cannot, the
Company expects that, as in prior years, it will be able to meet its operating
requirements through additional loans from and/or private sales of its common
stock to principal shareholders or entities controlled by them or to unrelated
parties. The Company, at present, does not have any material commitments for
capital expenditures.
Dextran Products has ongoing research commitments with the University of British
Columbia to investigate the use of a special form of Dextran to combat the
effects of cystic fibrosis. The Company is in preliminary discussions with
certain companies about further financing or forming an alliance to further this
research through clinical trials and to market but the results of these
discussions are indeterminable at this time.
The Company is in preliminary discussions with certain companies to fund the
further research necessary to commercialize the Cellulose Sulphate product but
the results of these discussions are indeterminable at this time.
No changes in accounting principles or their application have been implemented
in the reporting period that would have a material effect on reported income.
Changes in the relative values of the Canadian dollar and the U.S. dollar occur
from time to time and may, in certain instances, materially affect the Company's
results of operations.
The Company does not believe that the impact of inflation and changing prices on
its operations are material.
YEAR 2000 COMPUTER ISSUES.
- --------------------------
The Company has analyzed the impact of Year 2000 computer issues and does not
believe there will be an adverse effect on the Company's core business
operations and expects that transactions with customers, suppliers, corporate
partners and financial institutions will be fully supported. While the Company
believes its planning and preparations will be adequate and complete well in
advance of the Year 2000, there can be no assurance that the systems of
suppliers and other companies on which the Company relies will be converted on a
timely basis and will not have a material adverse effect on the Company. The
cost of the Year 2000 initiative is not expected to be material to the Company's
results of operations or financial position.
Forward-looking Statements Safe Harbor.
This Annual Report, including the Management's Discussion and Analysis, contains
various "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, as amended, which represent the Company's expectations or beliefs
concerning future events, including, but not limited to statements regarding
management's expectations of regulatory approval and the commencement of sales,
and the sufficiency of the Company's cash flow for the Company's future
liquidity and capital resource needs. In addition, statements containing
expressions such as "believes", "anticipates" or "expects" used in this Annual
Report and the Company's periodic reports on Forms 10-K and 10-Q filed with the
Securities and Exchange
<PAGE> 9
Commission are intended to identify forward-looking statements. The Company
cautions that these and similar statements in this Annual Report and in
previously filed periodic reports including reports filed on Forms 10-K and 10-Q
are further qualified by important factors that could cause actual results to
differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. These factors
include, without limitation, changing market conditions, the progress of
clinical trials, and the results obtained, the establishment of new corporate
alliances, the impact of competitive products and pricing, and the timely
development, FDA approval and market acceptance of the Company's products, none
of which can be assured. Results actually achieved may differ materially from
expected results included in these statements as a result of these or other
factors.
<PAGE> 10
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
[Expressed in United States dollars]
YEARS ENDED JANUARY 31, 1998, 1997 AND 1996
<PAGE> 11
AUDITORS' REPORT
To the Shareholders of
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
We have audited the consolidated balance sheets of POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS
LIMITED as at January 31, 1998 and 1997 and the related consolidated statements
of shareholders' equity, operations and cash flows for the years then ended.
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management.
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based
on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards
in the United States. Those standards require that we plan and perform an audit
to obtain reasonable assurance 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.
In our opinion, these consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all
material respects, the consolidated financial position of POLYDEX
PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED as at January 31, 1998 and 1997 and the consolidated
results of its operations and its cash flows for the years then ended in
accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.
ERNST & YOUNG
Toronto, Canada,
March 13, 1998. Chartered Accountants
<PAGE> 12
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
[Expressed in United States dollars]
As at January 31
1998 1997
$ $
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASSETS
CURRENT
<S> <C> <C>
Cash [note 7] 288,527 603,491
Trade accounts receivable 932,745 1,107,829
Inventories [note 3] 1,678,280 1,279,280
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 64,727 63,312
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 2,964,279 3,053,912
Property, plant and equipment, net [note 4] 3,800,379 3,857,302
Patents, net [notes 5 and 6] 217,374 877,311
Due from Novadex Corp. [note 6] 712,185 765,209
Due from shareholders [note 6] 935,416 --
Deferred income taxes [note 14] 950,000 --
Other assets 161,314 73,783
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9,740,947 8,627,517
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
CURRENT
Accounts payable 1,001,620 1,027,109
Accrued liabilities 355,167 472,108
Current portion of long-term debt [note 8] 55,392 60,185
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 1,412,179 1,559,402
Long-term debt [note 8] 462,632 524,656
Due to shareholders [note 6] 590,526 605,475
Due to affiliated companies [note 6] 425,420 425,420
Deferred gain [note 9] 672,369 776,564
Deferred income taxes [note 14] 26,439 12,481
Minority interest [note 6] -- 22,791
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL LIABILITIES 3,589,565 3,926,789
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Related party transactions [notes 6 and 12]
Commitments and contingencies [notes 9 and 11]
Redeemable capital stock [note 11] 2,000,000 2,000,000
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Capital stock [notes 10 and 11]
Authorized
100,000 A preferred shares of $0.10 each
899,400 B preferred shares of $0.0167 each
4,000,000 common shares of $0.0167 each
Issued and outstanding
899,400 B preferred shares 15,010 15,010
2,846,998 common shares [1997 -2,675,319] 47,283 44,456
Contributed surplus 21,826,025 20,735,822
Deficit (17,071,168) (17,559,330)
Currency translation adjustments (665,768) (535,230)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY 4,151,382 2,700,728
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9,740,947 8,627,517
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
See accompanying notes
</TABLE>
<PAGE> 13
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
[Expressed in United States dollars]
Years ended January 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996
CURRENCY TOTAL
PREFERRED COMMON CONTRIBUTED TRANSLATION SHAREHOLDERS'
SHARES SHARES SURPLUS DEFICIT ADJUSTMENTS EQUITY
$ $ $ $ $ $
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
BALANCE, JANUARY 31, 1995 4,990 46,609 22,573,669 (16,516,186) (463,689) 5,645,393
Common shares issued for
services provided -- 16 9,984 -- -- 10,000
Preferred shares issued to
repay shareholder loan 10,020 -- -- -- -- 10,020
Net loss for the year -- -- -- (1,165,534) -- (1,165,534)
Currency translation
adjustment -- -- -- -- (59,162) (59,162)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE, JANUARY 31, 1996 15,010 46,625 22,583,653 (17,681,720) (522,851) 4,440,717
Exercise of options -- 334 149,666 -- -- 150,000
Net income for the year -- -- -- 122,390 -- 122,390
Currency translation
adjustment -- -- -- -- (12,379) (12,379)
Renegotiation of Vet Labs
agreement [note 11] -- (2,503) (1,997,497) -- -- (2,000,000)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE, JANUARY 31, 1997 15,010 44,456 20,738,822 (17,559,330) (535,230) 2,700,728
Exercise of options for
services provided -- 40 17,990 -- -- 18,030
Common shares issued for cash
through private placement -- 2,661 997,339 -- -- 1,000,000
Common shares issued for interest
in Novadex International, Inc. -- 126 74,874 -- -- 75,000
Net income for the year -- -- -- 488,162 -- 488,162
Currency translation
adjustment -- -- -- -- (130,538) (130,538)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE, JANUARY 31, 1998 15,010 47,283 21,826,025 (17,071,168) (665,768) 4,151,382
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
See accompanying notes
</TABLE>
<PAGE> 14
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
[Expressed in United States dollars]
Years ended January 31
1998 1997 1996
$ $ $
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
SALES 9,842,365 9,344,089 8,459,563
Cost of goods sold 6,858,139 6,890,059 6,926,306
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
GROSS MARGIN 2,984,226 2,454,030 1,533,257
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EXPENSES
Selling and promotion 402,610 159,694 143,072
General and administrative 1,599,255 1,341,887 1,188,029
Depreciation and amortization 566,642 630,825 551,306
Interest [note 6] 129,199 151,463 131,259
Research and development [note 12] 184,901 92,063 314,149
Write-down of property, plant and
equipment and patents [note 5] 608,994 -- 40,000
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3,491,601 2,375,932 2,367,815
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income (loss) from operations (507,375) 78,098 (834,558)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other income (expenses)
Write-down of long-term investment [note 13] -- -- (400,000)
Gain (loss) on sale of equipment -- -- (2,529)
Interest and other [note 6] 58,313 56,629 76,238
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
58,313 56,629 (326,291)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income (loss) before income tax provision and
minority interest (449,062) 134,727 (1,160,849)
Income tax recovery (provision) [note 14] 936,042 (12,481) (6,750)
Minority interest 1,182 144 2,065
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET INCOME (LOSS) FOR THE YEAR 488,162 122,390 (1,165,534)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE INFORMATION
Earnings (loss) per common
share for the year - basic $0.17 $0.04 $(0.42)
- diluted $0.17 $0.04 $(0.42)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Weighted average number of common shares
outstanding for the year 2,923,864 2,817,718 2,804,593
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
See accompanying notes
</TABLE>
<PAGE> 15
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
[Expressed in United States dollars]
Years ended January 31
1998 1997 1996
$ $ $
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net income (loss) for the year 488,162 122,390 (1,165,534)
Add (deduct) items not affecting cash
Depreciation and amortization 566,642 630,825 551,306
Deferred income taxes (936,042) 12,481 --
Legal expenses charged to deferred gain [note 9] (104,195) (101,848) --
Royalty expense and interest income charged to
due from Novadex Corp. 53,024 73,702 --
Write-down of property, plant and
equipment and patents 608,994 -- 40,000
Write-down of long-term investment -- -- 400,000
Loss (gain) on sale of equipment -- -- 2,529
Minority interest (1,182) (144) (2,065)
Expenses paid by issuance of common shares 18,030 -- 10,000
Net change in non-cash working capital
balances related to operations [note 15] (496,944) (563,148) 211,971
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES 196,489 174,258 48,207
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from sale of investment in
Novatek International Inc. -- 1,278,412 --
Additions to property, plant and equipment (401,415) (838,960) (568,678)
Additions to patents (1,278) (4,187) (8,207)
Advances to shareholders, net (935,416) -- --
Proceeds from sale of equipment -- -- 5,087
Cash acquired on acquisition of
Novedex International Inc. -- -- 250,000
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASH PROVIDED BY (USED IN) INVESTING ACTIVITIES (1,338,109) 435,265 (321,798)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Repayment of loan payable -- (10,000) --
Repayment of long-term debt (66,817) (52,085) (36,226)
Proceeds from long-term debt -- -- 213,968
Repayment of advances from shareholders, net (14,949) 106,683 120,958
Repayment to Novadex Corp. -- -- (40,913)
Private placement of common shares 1,000,000 -- --
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASH PROVIDED BY FINANCING ACTIVITIES 918,234 44,598 257,787
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash (91,578) (62,951) (107,070)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH DURING THE YEAR (314,964) 591,170 (122,874)
Cash, beginning of year 603,491 12,321 135,195
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASH, END OF YEAR 288,527 603,491 12,321
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
See accompanying notes
</TABLE>
<PAGE> 16
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
[Expressed in United States dollars]
Years ended January 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996
1. GENERAL
Polydex Pharmaceuticals Limited ["Polydex" or the "Company"] is incorporated in
the Commonwealth of the Bahamas and its principal business activities, carried
on through subsidiaries, include the manufacture and sale of veterinary
pharmaceutical products and specialty chemicals. The Company prepares its
financial statements on the basis of accounting principles generally accepted in
the United States.
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
BASIS OF CONSOLIDATION
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and
its subsidiaries. All inter-company accounts and transactions have been
eliminated on consolidation.
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
Research and development costs are expensed as incurred and are stated net of
research and development grants received.
INVENTORIES
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realizable value, cost being
determined on a first-in, first-out basis.
DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION
Depreciation on property, plant and equipment is provided on a straight-line
basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:
Buildings 15 years
Machinery and equipment 3 to 10 years
Patents are amortized using the straight-line method over their estimated useful
lives of ten years.
<PAGE> 17
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
[Expressed in United States dollars]
Years ended January 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996
REVENUE RECOGNITION
Revenue from sales of manufactured products is recognized upon shipment to
customers.
FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION
The functional currency of the Company's Canadian operations has been determined
to be Canadian dollars. All asset and liability accounts of these companies have
been translated into United States dollars using the current exchange rates at
the balance sheet dates. Income statement amounts have been translated using the
average exchange rates for the year. The gains and losses resulting from the
change in exchange rates from the beginning to the end of the year have been
reported separately as a component of shareholders' equity.
STOCK OPTIONS
The Company has elected to follow Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25,
"Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees" ["APB 25"] and related
Interpretations in accounting for its employee stock options rather than the
alternative fair value accounting provided for under Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation," ["SFAS
123"]. Under APB 25, because the exercise price of the Company's employee stock
options equals the market price of the underlying stock on the date of grant, no
compensation expense is recognized.
ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES
The preparation of 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 consolidated
financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during
the reporting period.
<PAGE> 18
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
[Expressed in United States dollars]
Years ended January 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE
In 1998, the Company retroactively adopted the Statement of Financial Accounting
Standards Number 128 "Earnings per share" issued in February 1997 relating to
the presentation of earnings per share for 1998, 1997 and 1996. The impact of
adopting this standard was not material to the presentation of earnings per
share for all years.
Basic earnings per common share is computed using the weighted average number of
shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per common share is computed using the
weighted average number of shares outstanding adjusted for the incremental
shares, using the treasury stock method, attributed to outstanding options to
purchase common stock. Incremental shares of 5,880, 8,712 and 128 in 1998, 1997
and 1996 respectively, were used in the calculation of diluted earnings per
common share. Options to purchase 151,096, 196,500 and 295,077 shares of common
stock in 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively, were not included in the computation
of diluted earnings per common share because the option exercise price was
greater than the average market price of the common stock.
3. INVENTORIES
Inventories consist of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997
$ $
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Finished goods 937,686 656,039
Work-in-process 77,828 89,640
Raw materials 662,766 533,601
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1,678,280 1,279,280
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
<PAGE> 19
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
[Expressed in United States dollars]
Years ended January 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996
4. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Property, plant and equipment consist of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997
------------------------------ ----------------------------------
ACCUMULATED NET ACCUMULATED NET
DEPRECIATION/ BOOK DEPRECIATION/ BOOK
COST AMORTIZATION VALUE COST AMORTIZATION VALUE
$ $ $ $ $ $
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Land and buildings 2,887,235 380,003 2,507,232 2,796,935 239,817 2,557,118
Machinery and equipment 5,146,907 3,853,760 1,293,147 5,077,720 3,777,536 1,300,184
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8,034,142 4,233,763 3,800,379 7,874,655 4,017,353 3,857,302
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5. PATENTS
Patents consist of the following:
<CAPTION>
1998 1997
$ $
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Cost 410,835 1,184,555
Less accumulated amortization 193,461 307,244
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
217,374 877,311
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
The Company's patents relate to products for which there is significant
competition. Although management expects that these costs will be recovered
through net future revenues, it is reasonably possible that a write-down might
be required in the near term due to changes in the competitive market.
During 1998, the Company determined that the slow commercialization of certain
patents was an indication of an impairment in their carrying value. Although
the company continues to pursue these commercial applications, the Company
determined that an impairment writedown of $608,994 would be appropriate. The
Company is also continuing with the development of these patents in the area of
human therapeutics but due to the risks associated with the drug regulatory
approval process, these pursuits are considered research and development and
accordingly do not support on-going capitalization.
<PAGE> 20
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
[Expressed in United States dollars]
Years ended January 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996
6. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
[a] AMOUNTS DUE FROM AND TO RELATED PARTIES
Amounts due from and due to related parties consist of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997
$ $
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Amounts due from Novadex Corp. [i] [note 12] 712,185 765,209
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amounts due from shareholders [iii] 935,416 --
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amounts due to shareholders [iii] 590,526 605,475
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amounts due to affiliated companies:
Usher Insurance Company Ltd. [ii] 138,635 138,635
Lincoln Underwriting Management Inc. [ii] 286,785 286,785
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
425,420 425,420
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
Novadex Corp., Usher Insurance Company Ltd. and Lincoln Underwriting Management
Inc. are each controlled by an officer, director and major shareholder of the
Company [the "Major Shareholder"]. Amounts due from Novadex Corp. are
collateralized by a guarantee of the Major Shareholder.
[i] The amount due from Novadex Corp. has no fixed terms of repayment,
except that amounts may not be called prior to February 1, 1999. This
balance is non-interest bearing, except that an amount of $164,085 [1997 -
$217,109] included in the balance bears interest at U.S. prime [8.5% at
January 31, 1998; 8.25% at January 31, 1997].
[ii] The amounts due to Usher Insurance Company Ltd. and Lincoln
Underwriting Management Inc. have no fixed terms of repayment, except that
amounts may not be called prior to February 1, 1999, and are non-interest
bearing.
[iii] Amounts due from (to) shareholders bear interest at U.S. prime plus
1.5% [10% at January 31, 1998; 9.75% at January 31, 1997], except for an
amount of $250,000 included in due from shareholders which is non-interest
bearing. These amounts have no fixed terms of repayment except that the
amounts may not be called prior to February 1, 1999.
Interest recorded with respect to amounts due to and due from related parties
are as follows:
<PAGE> 21
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
[Expressed in United States dollars]
Years ended January 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997 1996
$ $ $
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Interest income 33,019 17,670 58,612
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interest expense 46,768 65,520 66,487
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
[b] ACQUISITION OF NOVADEX INTERNATIONAL INC.
During the year ended January 31, 1996, the Company acquired a 90% interest in
Novadex International Inc. from the Major Shareholder for an ascribed value of
$1,000,000 which was applied to the due from shareholder account. The principal
asset of Novadex International Inc. is a patent, developed by the Major
Shareholder, for the use of Cellulose Sulphate in a number of applications
including the development of a new contraceptive gel and use in the commercial
production of photographic film. The acquisition by the Company of its interest
in Novadex International Inc. has been accounted for by the purchase method, and
consolidated from the acquisition date of May 9, 1995.
The allocation of the purchase price of the assets and liabilities acquired was
as follows:
<TABLE>
$
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C>
Cash 250,000
Patents 775,000
Minority interest (25,000)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1,000,000
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
During the year ended January 31, 1998, the Company issued 7,500 common shares
to acquire the remaining 10% interest in Novadex International Inc. from the
minority shareholder. These shares were valued at $10 per share representing the
quoted market value of the shares at the time of the transaction. An amount of
$53,391 representing the purchase price in excess of the book value of the
minority interest was allocated to the cost of patents.
<PAGE> 22
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
[Expressed in United States dollars]
Years ended January 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996
7. BANK INDEBTEDNESS
Dextran Products Limited ["Dextran Products"] has an operating line of credit of
CDN $100,000 [US $69,400], none of which was utilized at January 31, 1998. This
line of credit bears interest at the Canadian bank's prime lending rate [6.5% at
January 31, 1998 ; 4.75% at January 31, 1997] plus 2%. Bank indebtedness is
collateralized by a general security agreement and limited personal guarantees
of certain shareholders.
8. LONG-TERM DEBT
Long-term debt consists of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997
$ $
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Mortgage payable in monthly installments, bearing
interest at a rate of 8.5%, and maturing January, 2002,
collateralized by land and building with a carrying
value as at January 31, 1998 of $850,484 129,663 167,001
Note payable to bank, maturing January 1, 2000,
bearing interest at a rate of 10.5%, collateralized by
assignments of land, building and equipment with a
carrying value as at January 31, 1998 of $2,113,789 362,532 377,062
Other 25,829 40,778
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
518,024 584,841
Less current portion 55,392 60,185
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
462,632 524,656
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
The aggregate maturities of long-term debt for each of the years subsequent to
January 31, 1998 are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
$
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C>
1999 55,392
2000 383,694
2001 42,541
2002 36,397
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
518,024
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
9. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
<PAGE> 23
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
[Expressed in United States dollars]
Years ended January 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996
[a] DEFERRED GAIN
During the year ended January 31, 1997, the Company sold its shares in Novatek
International Inc., an unrelated company which Polydex had an investment in, for
a gain of $878,412. Prior to April 28, 1996, these shares were subject to
options held by unrelated parties. After April 28, 1996, these options expired
and the Company sold the shares in the open market realizing the gain.
Subsequently, the former option holders filed a lawsuit against the Company for
unspecified damages alleging that the Company denied them the opportunity to
exercise their option. The Company intends to vigorously defend the action,
however, because the proceedings are in the preliminary stages, the ultimate
outcome is not determinable. Accordingly, the Company has deferred the gain on
this transaction until the likelihood of the outcome of the lawsuit is
determinable. The reported gain has been reduced by legal fees of $104,195 in
1998 and $101,848 in 1997.
[b] OPERATING COMMITMENTS
The Company has obligations under non-cancellable operating leases of
approximately $16,000 annually to the year 2002. Rental expense for the year
totalled approximately $22,000 [1997 - $23,000; 1996 - $195,000].
10. CAPITAL STOCK
[a] SHARE CAPITAL ISSUED AND OUTSTANDING
[i] COMMON SHARES
During the year ended January 31, 1998, the shareholders of the Company
passed a resolution authorizing a one-for-ten reverse share split. All
comparative amounts and per share amounts have been restated to reflect the
impact of this reverse split on a retroactive basis. During the year, the
Company issued 159,680 common shares for $1,000,000 in cash in a private
placement. The Company also issued 2,404 common shares pursuant to the
exercise of stock options. These options had an exercise price of $7.50 per
share. The Company did not receive a cash payment in connection with the
exercise of these options. Instead, the shares were issued in exchange for
past services rendered, valued at $18,030. The Company also issued 7,500
common shares in exchange for the 10% minority interest in the subsidiary,
Novadex International Inc., as described in note 6. In addition, the
Company issued 2,095 common shares for no consideration to adjust for
fractional shares created by the reverse share split.
<PAGE> 24
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
[Expressed in United States dollars]
Years ended January 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996
During the year ended January 31, 1997, the Major Shareholder exercised
options for 20,000 common shares valued at $150,000. These shares were
issued in exchange for partial settlement of the Major Shareholder's loan
account with the Company.
During the year ended January 31, 1996, the Company issued 1,000 common
shares valued at $10,000 under a private placement as payment for services
rendered to the Company.
[ii] A PREFERRED SHARES
The A preferred shares will carry dividends, be convertible into common
shares of the Company and will be redeemable, all at rates as shall be
determined by resolution of the Board of Directors. No A preferred shares
have been issued to date.
[iii] B PREFERRED SHARES
During the year ended January 31, 1996, the Company issued 600,000 B
preferred shares under a private placement to the Major Shareholder of the
Company for $10,020 as partial settlement of the Major Shareholder's loan
account with the Company.
The B preferred shares carry no dividends, are non-convertible and entitle
the holder to one vote per share.
[b] SHARE OPTION PLAN
[i] OPTIONS OUTSTANDING
The Company maintains an incentive stock option plan to grant options to
purchase common stock to management personnel and contractors. Options
granted have terms ranging from one to four years and vest immediately. At
January 31, 1998, the Company has 266,673 options outstanding at exercise
prices ranging from $5.00 to $12.50, and a weighted average price of $9.13.
The options which are all exercisable and expire on dates between June 30,
1998 and December 31, 2000, entitle the holder of an option to acquire one
common share of the Company.
<PAGE> 25
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
[Expressed in United States dollars]
Years ended January 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996
Details of the outstanding options, which are all currently exercisable,
are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
WEIGHTED AVERAGE
SHARE OPTIONS OPTION PRICE PER SHARE
------------------------------ ---------------------------
1998 1997 1996 1998 1997 1996
$ $ $
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
OPTIONS OUTSTANDING,
BEGINNING OF YEAR 317,077 295,577 158,577 9.10 9.30 8.40
Granted 139,077 56,500 176,500 8.03 8.00 9.80
Exercised (2,404) (20,000) -- 7.50 7.50 --
Cancelled or expired (187,077) (15,000) (39,500) 8.08 8.70 7.80
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OPTIONS OUTSTANDING,
END OF YEAR 266,673 317,077 295,577 9.13 9.10 9.30
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WEIGHTED AVERAGE FAIR
VALUE OF OPTIONS GRANTED
DURING THE YEAR $2.29 $4.95 $2.35
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
The following table summarizes information relating to the options
outstanding at January 31, 1998:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
OPTIONS OUTSTANDING
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NUMBER WEIGHTED AVERAGE WEIGHTED
RANGE OF OUTSTANDING AT REMAINING AVERAGE
EXERCISE JANUARY 31, CONTRACTUAL LIFE EXERCISE
PRICES 1998 (MONTHS) PRICE
$ $ $
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
$5.00 500 5 $5.00
$7.50 92,672 5 $7.50
$10.00 172,500 28 $10.00
$12.50 1,000 5 $12.50
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
266,672 $9.13
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
[ii] PRO FORMA EARNINGS
Adopting SFAS 123 would require the Company to estimate the fair value of
any options granted and to reflect these amounts as compensation expense in
determining net income for each year. In order to estimate the fair value
of its options, the Company may use option pricing models which were
developed for use in estimating the fair value of traded options which have
no vesting restrictions and are fully transferable. Because the Company's
<PAGE> 26
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
[Expressed in United States dollars]
Years ended January 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996
employee stock options have characteristics significantly different from
those options and because changes in subjective input assumptions can
materially affect the fair value estimate, in management's opinion, the
existing models do not necessarily provide a reliable single measure of the
fair value of its employee stock options.
However, as required by SFAS 123, pro forma information regarding net
income and earnings per share has been determined as if the Company had
accounted for its employee stock options under the fair value method. The
fair value for these options was estimated at the date of grant using a
Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted-average
assumptions for 1998: risk-free interest rates of 5.36% [1997 - 5.48%; 1996
- 5.33%]; dividend yields of nil [1997 and 1996 - nil]; volatility factors
of the expected market price of the Company's common stock of 0.944 [1997 -
1.001; 1996 - 0.926], and an expected life of the options ranging from one
to three years [1997 - one to four years; 1996 - one to five years]. For
purposes of pro forma disclosures, the estimated fair value of the options
is expensed immediately.
The Company's pro forma net income (loss) following SFAS 123 are as
follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997 1996
$ $ $
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Pro forma net income (loss) 297,184 (285,424) (1,559,459)
Pro forma earnings per share
Basic 0.10 (0.10) (0.56)
Fully diluted 0.10 (0.10) (0.56)
=====================================================================================================
</TABLE>
11. VETERINARY LABORATORIES INC. ["VET LABS"]
[a] PURCHASE OBLIGATION TO CONTINENTAL GRAIN COMPANY
In 1992, the Company, through its 90% owned subsidiary, Chemdex Inc.
["Chemdex"], acquired 100% of the issued outstanding share capital of Vet Labs
from Continental Grain Company ["CGC"] for a total purchase price of $3,894,980,
which was satisfied by issuing 194,749 common shares of the Company.
The acquisition was accounted for as a purchase.
The Major Shareholder had guaranteed that, by November 30, 1996, CGC would
realize a value of $3,894,980 on the eventual sale of these shares or CGC had an
option to put its remaining shares to the Company or the Major Shareholder at
such a price to bring CGC's total consideration to $3,894,980. By November 1996,
CGC had realized approximately $800,000 on the sale of 44,850 common shares but
had not been able to sell all of their shares. On November 22, 1996, the terms
of the original purchase agreement were amended.
<PAGE> 27
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
[Expressed in United States dollars]
Years ended January 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996
In exchange for the Company reattributing net operating loss carryforwards of
$5.0 million [carrying value of nil] which existed in Vet Labs at the time of
acquisition by the Company and the Company assuming the purchase obligation of
the Major Shareholder, CGC has reduced the maximum repurchase obligation of the
Company relating to CGC's remaining 149,899 common shares from approximately
$3.1 million at November 22, 1996 to $2.0 million. In addition, the deadline for
CGC to exercise its option for the sale of shares to the Company has been
extended from November 30, 1996 to May 30, 1999.
In order to ensure that there is an orderly disposition of shares, CGC has
agreed to not sell more than an average of 5,000 shares per month in any
six-month period. If CGC has not been able to sell an average of 5,000 shares
per month at an average price of $13.34 per share, the Company will issue to CGC
additional shares such that the proceeds realized by CGC in the six-month period
plus the market value of the additional shares issued will leave CGC in the same
position as if it had sold shares at an average price of $13.34 per share. If
CGC's sale of shares at the end of each six-month period is at an average price
greater than $13.34 per share, then CGC will return to the Company sufficient
additional shares to reduce the average price to $13.34 per share. Throughout
fiscal 1998, the shares have traded at values in a range of $5.50 to $13.00 and
as at January 31, 1998, the closing market price was $ 6.88. To date, CGC has
not requested any additional shares under this agreement. Any shares issued will
be considered to be a component of the original transaction value and would be
recorded at nominal consideration. The assets of Vet Labs have been pledged as
collateral for this guarantee.
The Company is currently reviewing alternatives to address the potential
requirement on March 15, 1999 to repurchase up to $2.0 million of the common
shares held by CGC. Although management expects that a portion of this
obligation could be funded from existing cash and cash generated from operations
during the next year, it is reasonably possible that the Company will be
required to obtain additional financing, such as increased operating or term
borrowing facilities or issue of additional share capital or alternatively will
be required to re-negotiate the terms of the obligation. CGC has expressed a
willingness to review the terms of the agreement. There is no assurance that the
Company would be able to obtain such additional financing or on terms favourable
to the Company.
[b] SPARHAWK LABORATORIES INC. ["SPARHAWK"]
In 1992, Vet Labs and Sparhawk entered into a joint venture [collectively
referred to as the "Joint Venture"] for the purpose of manufacturing and selling
veterinary pharmaceutical products. Sparhawk is an affiliated company owned
primarily by the management of the Joint Venture. The Company controls the Joint
Venture through its control of the board of directors. The Company has funded
the Joint Venture's losses since 1992, and accordingly has recorded 100% of
these losses in the consolidated financial statements. As at January 31, 1998,
future profits of approximately $1,900,000 will accrue to the Company until
Sparhawk's share of losses since 1992
<PAGE> 28
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
[Expressed in United States dollars]
Years ended January 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996
have been recovered. Subsequent income will be allocated 50% to Vet Labs and 50%
to Sparhawk.
12. LICENSE AGREEMENTS AND RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
[a] IRON DEXTRAN PROCESS
Effective February 1, 1995, the Company entered into an agreement with Novadex
Corp., an affiliated company, whereby Novadex Corp. granted the Company the
exclusive worldwide licence to use a certain process developed by Novadex Corp.
for producing Iron Dextran. The term of this licence agreement is 10 years. The
Company pays a licence fee based on production volumes. The total royalty
expense incurred during the year was $71,088 [1997 - $88,835, 1996 - $80,491].
[b] CYSTIC FIBROSIS
Effective April 1, 1994, the Company had entered into a Research Agreement [the
"Agreement"] with Novadex Pharmaceuticals Limited ["Novadex Pharmaceuticals"], a
company owned by the Major Shareholder, and the University of British Columbia
["UBC"]. Under the terms of the Agreement, the Company agreed to provide
equipment and funding in connection with research into Cystic Fibrosis. This
agreement was amended on April 1, 1996 and expanded to include a number of
Canadian hospitals.
In conjunction with the Agreement, UBC granted the Company, through a
sub-licensing agreement with Novadex Pharmaceuticals, an exclusive worldwide
licence to manufacture, distribute and sell products derived or developed from
the research performed. The Company will pay a quarterly royalty to both UBC and
Novadex Pharmaceuticals, based on net sales.
Costs incurred during the year in relation to the Agreement total $71,338 [1997
- - $55,483; 1996 - $175,100].
13. WRITE-DOWN OF LONG-TERM INVESTMENT
During the year ended January 31, 1996, the Company wrote off the $400,000
investment in Personal Blood Storage of South Florida, Inc. as a result of its
continuing financial difficulties. This investment had been recorded at cost in
the consolidated financial statements.
<PAGE> 29
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
[Expressed in United States dollars]
Years ended January 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996
14. INCOME TAXES
[a] Substantially all of the Company's activities are carried out through
operating subsidiaries in Canada and the United States. The Company's
effective income tax rate is dependent on the tax legislation in each
country and the operating results of each subsidiary and the parent
Company.
The components of income before income taxes and minority interest are as
follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997 1996
$ $ $
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Bahamas (1,654,659) (574,139) (988,617)
Canada 1,247,816 1,114,456 279,122
United States (42,219) (405,590) (451,354)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(449,062) 134,727 (1,160,849)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The income tax provision consists of the following:
<CAPTION>
1998 1997 1996
$ $ $
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Provision for income taxes based on Bahamian income -- -- --
Provision for income taxes based on Canadian statutory
income tax rates 556,526 497,047 124,488
Benefit of previously unrecorded Canadian tax items (1,492,568) (484,566) (117,738)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(936,042) 12,481 6,750
Provision for income taxes based on United States
income tax rates (16,888) (162,236) (180,542)
United States losses not recognized 16,888 162,236 180,542
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- -- --
INCOME TAX PROVISION (RECOVERY) (936,042) 12,481 6,750
=====================================================================================================
</TABLE>
<PAGE> 30
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
[Expressed in United States dollars]
Years ended January 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996
Significant components of the income tax provision attributable to continuing
operations are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997 1996
$ $ $
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Canadian federal deferred tax recovery (950,000) -- --
Canadian federal deferred tax expense 13,958 12,481 --
Canadian federal current tax expense -- -- 6,750
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(936,042) 12,481 6,750
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
[b] Deferred income tax assets have been provided on temporary differences
which consist of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997 1996
$ $ $
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DEFERRED TAX ASSETS
Canadian
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Non-capital losses 123,000 467,000 557,000
Unclaimed research and development
expenses 923,000 954,000 955,000
Investment tax credits 194,000 223,000 227,000
Amortization of property, plant and
equipment which has not yet been claimed
for income tax purposes 48,000 238,000 269,000
Other items 143,000 160,000 150,000
United States
Net operating losses 715,000 699,000 2,100,000
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2,146,000 2,741,000 4,258,000
Valuation allowance (1,196,000) (2,741,000) (4,258,000)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET DEFERRED TAX ASSET 950,000 -- --
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
During 1998, as a result of the sustained profitability of the Company's
Canadian operations and the resulting ability to utilize the Company's
Canadian tax losses and deductions and after considering the expectations
for continued profitability of the Canadian operations into the future, the
Company determined in 1998 that the valuation allowance should be reduced
by $950,000.
Deferred income tax liabilities of $26,439 at January 31, 1998 [January 31,
1997 - $12,481] have been provided on temporary differences arising from
differences between the carrying amount for financial reporting purposes
and the amounts used for income tax purposes for investment tax credits.
<PAGE> 31
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
[Expressed in United States dollars]
Years ended January 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996
[c] The Canadian subsidiaries of the Company have non-capital loss
carryforwards for Canadian tax purposes which expire in the following
fiscal years:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FEDERAL ONTARIO
$ $
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
1999 40,000 --
2000 -- --
2001 -- 353,000
2002 -- --
2003 121,000 121,000
2004 -- 20,000
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
161,000 494,000
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
In addition, the Canadian subsidiaries have deductions available to reduce
future years' income for tax purposes on account of net temporary
differences resulting from expense items reported for tax purposes in
different periods than for financial statement purposes totalling $2.6
million and $1.5 million for federal and provincial purposes respectively.
Certain Canadian subsidiaries also have net capital losses available for
carryforward of $435,000 available to offset taxable capital gains. These
potential deductions and net capital losses have an indefinite carryforward
period.
Certain Canadian subsidiaries have also earned investment tax credits of
$194,000 which are available to offset federal income taxes payable in the
future expiring from 1999 through 2007.
The benefits associated with these losses, deductions and investment tax
credits have been recorded in the consolidated financial statements to the
extent described in note 14 [b].
[d] The U.S. subsidiaries of the Company have net operating loss carryforwards
for tax purposes of approximately $1.8 million which expire from 2005 to
2013.
The benefits associated with these losses have been recorded in the
consolidated financial statements to the extent described in note 14 [b].
<PAGE> 32
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
[Expressed in United States dollars]
Years ended January 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996
15. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
The net change in non-cash working capital balances consists of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997 1996
$ $ $
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
DECREASE (INCREASE) IN CURRENT ASSETS
Trade accounts receivable 142,389 (371,576) (119,149)
Inventories (444,290) 140,539 324,636
Prepaid expenses and other assets (94,889) 1,499 (1,117)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(396,790) (229,538) 204,370
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accounts payable (25,489) (280,479) 8,789
Accrued liabilities (74,665) (53,131) (1,188)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(496,944) (563,148) 211,971
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
Cash paid during the year for interest was $82,536 [1997 - $85,943; 1996 -
$68,313]. Cash paid during the year for income taxes was nil [1997 - nil; 1996 -
$6,750].
Excluded from the consolidated statements of cash flows for the year ended
January 31, 1998 is the issuance of 2,404 common shares of the Company in
exchange for services rendered to the Company[note 10] and the acquisition of
the remaining 10% interest in Novadex International Inc. [notes 6 and 10] from
the minority shareholder in exchange 7,500 common shares.
Excluded from the consolidated statements of cash flows for the year ended
January 31, 1997 is the issuance of 20,000 common shares of the Company in
exchange for a reduction in the Major Shareholder's loan account.
Excluded from the consolidated statements of cash flows for the year ended
January 31, 1996 is the issuance of 1,000 common shares of the Company in
exchange for services rendered to the Company, the issuance of 600,000 B
preferred shares in exchange for a reduction in the Major Shareholder's loan
account and the acquisition of a 90% interest in Novadex International Inc.
[note 6] from the Major Shareholder in exchange for a shareholder loan.
The above transactions are considered non-cash financing and investing
activities.
<PAGE> 33
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
[Expressed in United States dollars]
Years ended January 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996
16. SEGMENTED INFORMATION
All of the operations of the Company are carried on through Dextran Products in
Canada and through Vet Labs in the United States. These subsidiaries operate
principally in one industry: the manufacture of veterinary pharmaceutical
products and specialty chemicals. Dextran Products manufactures and sells bulk
quantities of Dextran and several of its derivatives to large pharmaceutical
companies. Vet Labs develops, manufactures and sells veterinary pharmaceutical
products through distributors and private labelers.
[a] Segmented information by geographic area is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997 1996
$ $ $
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Sales
Canada 3,910,584 4,201,555 3,249,032
United States 5,931,781 5,142,534 5,210,531
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SALES 9,842,365 9,344,089 8,459,563
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating income (loss)
Canada 1,271,403 1,122,615 264,027
United States (19,244) (365,467) (452,538)
General corporate expenses (1,605,564) (527,587) (509,238)
Corporate research and development (24,771) -- (5,550)
Interest expense (129,199) (151,463) (131,259)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INCOME (LOSS) FROM OPERATIONS (507,375) 78,098 (834,558)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Identifiable assets at year end
Canada 4,127,184 3,354,384 2,046,793
United States 3,734,958 3,619,717 3,736,838
Corporate assets 1,878,805 1,653,416 2,281,359
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL ASSETS 9,740,947 8,627,517 8,064,990
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
Identifiable assets are those assets of the Company that are identified with the
operations in each geographic area. Corporate assets are principally patents,
investment in affiliated company, amounts due from affiliated companies and
amounts due from shareholders.
<PAGE> 34
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
[Expressed in United States Dollars]
Years ended January 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996
[b] Consolidated sales by destination are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1998 1997 1996
$ $ $
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
United States 6,477,247 5,852,313 5,770,268
Canada 699,539 792,051 723,452
Europe 1,574,569 1,470,159 1,190,660
Pacific Rim 912,530 983,029 725,783
Other 178,480 246,537 49,400
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9,842,365 9,344,089 8,459,563
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
17. FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The estimated fair value of financial instruments has been determined based on
available market information and appropriate valuation methodologies.
The carrying amounts of cash, trade accounts receivable, accounts payable, and
accrued liabilities approximate fair value at January 31, 1998 because of the
short maturity of these financial instruments.
The estimated carrying value of due from Novadex, due from and to shareholders,
due to affiliates, long term debt, and non-current liabilities is not materially
different from the carrying value for financial statement purposes at January
31, 1998 and 1997. It is not practical to estimate the fair value of the amounts
due from Novadex, due from and to shareholders and due to affiliates, as there
are no fixed terms of repayment. The long-term debt bears interest at rates
approximating current market rates.
18. CONCENTRATION OF ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
At January 31, 1998, there was one customer of the Company which comprised 14%
of the consolidated trade accounts receivable balance. The receivable from this
customer was fully covered by export credit insurance provided by the Canadian
government. There were no individual customer receivable balances in excess of
10% of the consolidated trade accounts receivable balance at January 31, 1997.
<PAGE> 35
POLYDEX PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
[Expressed in United States dollars]
Years ended January 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996
19. NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
In June 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement No. 130,
"Reporting Comprehensive Income". This Statement established standards for
reporting and displaying comprehensive income and its components (revenues,
expenses, gains and losses) in a full set of general purpose financial
statements. Such items may include foreign currency translation adjustments,
unrealized gains/losses from investing and hedging activities, and other
transactions. This Statement requires that all items that are required to be
recognized under accounting standards as components of comprehensive income be
reported in a financial statement that is displayed with the same prominence as
other financial statements. This Statement is effective for financial statements
for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 1997 and therefore the Company
will adopt the new requirements retroactively in 1999.
In June 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement No. 131,
"Disclosures About Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information", which
establishes standards for the way public companies report information about
operating segments in annual financial statements and requires that those
companies report selected information about operating segments in interim
financial reports issued to shareholders. It also establishes standards for
related disclosures about products and services, geographic areas and major
customers. This Statement is effective for financial statements for fiscal years
beginning after December 15, 1997 and therefore the Company will adopt the new
requirements retroactively in 1999.
20. COMPARATIVE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The comparative consolidated financial statements have been reclassified from
statements previously presented to conform to the presentation of the 1998
consolidated financial statements. In addition, shareholders' equity has been
restated to reclassify the common shares subject to the put option described in
note 11.
<PAGE> 1
Exhibit 23
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
We consent to the incorporation by reference in this Annual Report (Form 10-K)
of Polydex Pharmaceuticals Limited of our report dated March 13, 1998, with
respect to the consolidated financial statements of Polydex Pharmaceuticals
Limited included in its 1998 Annual Report to Shareholders.
Toronto, Canada Ernst & Young
April 30, 1998 Chartered Accountants
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 5
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> JAN-31-1998
<PERIOD-START> FEB-01-1997
<PERIOD-END> JAN-31-1998
<CASH> 88,527
<SECURITIES> 0
<RECEIVABLES> 932,745
<ALLOWANCES> 0
<INVENTORY> 1,678,200
<CURRENT-ASSETS> 2,964,979
<PP&E> 3,800,379
<DEPRECIATION> 4,233,763
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 9,740,947
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES> 1,412,179
<BONDS> 462,632
0
15,010
<COMMON> 47,283
<OTHER-SE> 21,826,025
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY> 9,740,947
<SALES> 9,842,365
<TOTAL-REVENUES> 9,900,628
<CGS> 6,850,139
<TOTAL-COSTS> 6,050,139
<OTHER-EXPENSES> 3,491,601
<LOSS-PROVISION> 0
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<INCOME-PRETAX> (449,062)
<INCOME-TAX> (936,042)
<INCOME-CONTINUING> 488,162
<DISCONTINUED> 0
<EXTRAORDINARY> 0
<CHANGES> 0
<NET-INCOME> 488,162
<EPS-PRIMARY> .17
<EPS-DILUTED> .17
</TABLE>
