<PAGE> 1
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
----------------------------------
FORM 6-K
REPORT OF FOREIGN PRIVATE ISSUER
PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-16 OR 15d-16
UNDER
THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FOR THE MONTH OF JUNE 1999
SPECTRUM SIGNAL PROCESSING INC.
(REGISTRANT'S NAME)
100 PRODUCTION COURT, 8525 BAXTER PLACE
BURNABY, BC V5A 4V7
(Address of principal executive offices)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports
under cover Form 20-F or Form 40-F.
Form 20-F Form 40-F X
--- ---
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant by furnishing the information
contained in this Form is also thereby furnishing the information to the
Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Yes No X
--- ---
If "Yes" is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the registrant
in connection with Rule 12g3-2(b): 82- .
-------
<PAGE> 2
SPECTRUM SIGNAL PROCESSING
1998 ANNUAL REPORT
[LOGO]
<PAGE> 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Corporate Profile
Letter to Shareholders
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Management's Discussion and Analysis ................................. f1 - f4
Auditors' Report to the Shareholders ................................. f4
Consolidated Balance Sheets .......................................... f5
Consolidated Statements of Operations ................................ f6
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity ...................... f7
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows ................................ f8
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements ........................... f9 - f16
</TABLE>
<PAGE> 4
CORPORATE PROFILE
Spectrum Signal Processing is a world leader in the design of Digital Signal
Processing (DSP) system solutions. Our hardware and software products, targeted
at the high-end electronics market, are helping Spectrum's customers take
advantage of the power and precision of DSP technology.
Digital signal processing (DSP) is a breakthrough technology that is changing
the way machines interact with our world and how we interact with machines. DSP
involves the conversion of "real world" signals, like light, sound, and images,
into the digital language of computers - zeroes and ones. Once "digitized" these
signals can be enhanced, compressed and manipulated, improving the performance
of a wide range of sophisticated electronics systems.
Spectrum's DSP systems enable our customers to create digital solutions for a
variety of applications including: medical diagnostic imaging machines, radar
and sonar, surveillance equipment and motor control. As the technology evolves,
so too do the number and variety of new applications.
Spectrum is a global company with headquarters located in Burnaby, BC, four
sales offices in the USA, one sales office in the UK and a wholly-owned
subsidiary located in Scotland. We sell our products to major commercial,
industrial and defense customers in North America, Europe, Asia and in many
developing markets around the world. The Company is traded on the Toronto Stock
Exchange (symbol: SSY) and the NASDAQ Stock Market (symbol: SSPI).
SPECTRUM'S ROLE IN THE EXPANDING WORLD OF DSP
There are two very distinct markets for DSP technology: the highly competitive
consumer market, and the high-end commercial, industrial and defense electronics
market. Spectrum focuses on the latter, designing sophisticated DSP hardware and
software systems for high-performance applications such as those mentioned
above.
Spectrum's customers are experts in their fields and use DSP technology as an
integral component in a wide range of high-performance electronics applications.
Our job at Spectrum is to ensure our customers remain at the forefront of their
industries by designing world-class DSP systems that reflect our proven
technological expertise, and our ongoing commitment to superior quality and
customer service.
Simply put, our customers outsource their DSP development to us, so that they
can concentrate on what they do best. We are the DSP experts that the world's
electronics experts rely on.
Spectrum's high-performance DSP systems play an integral, although not always
visible, role in literally dozens of everyday applications. One key customer
uses Spectrum's DSP systems to manufacture sophisticated diagnostic imaging
machines, which help medical practitioners make crucial diagnoses and treatment
decisions that will ultimately affect the lives of thousands of patients.
Another customer has incorporated Spectrum's DSP systems in its research labs to
develop and test the next generation of automobile engines. Their research will
lead to better fuel efficiency, more power, less engine vibration, and enhance
the overall performance of our vehicles.
Our defense and law enforcement customers use Spectrum's DSP systems to conduct
critical surveillance and intelligence-gathering activities - activities that
often save lives.
Spectrum's DSP systems are used in dozens of other areas - too many to mention
here. And as DSP technology increases in power and performance, so too do the
number of ways in which Spectrum's high-performance systems can be harnessed by
our growing base of customers. As the millennium approaches, the future of DSP
technology looks bright indeed.
<PAGE> 5
DEAR SHAREHOLDER,
While 1998 brought with it many challenges and some disappointments, Spectrum
was successful in accomplishing several important goals that opened up new
opportunities for the Company, and solidified its position as the DSP systems
outsourcing partner of choice to major commercial, industrial and defense
customers around the world.
During 1998, Spectrum deepened its lineup of existing products and services to
become a more valuable partner to its customers, and build long-term value for
its shareholders.
At the beginning of 1998 Spectrum's management made a conscious decision to
de-emphasize sales of licensed third-party product, and to concentrate our
efforts on selling Spectrum products designed in-house over the last two years.
In 1997, licensed products accounted for 47% of total sales. By the end of 1998,
the percentage had dropped to 19%. At the same time, sales of Spectrum designed
product increased from 47% in 1997 to 75% of total sales in 1998. The result of
this sales shift was an improvement in gross margins, increased independence and
a validation of Spectrum's technical expertise.
As mentioned, 1998 was fraught with challenges as well. A major shift in the
industry to a new generation of chip technology from Texas Instruments (TI)
launched many new and existing Spectrum customers into a 12 to 18 month
development cycle.
This had the effect of delaying volume orders for Spectrum until these customers
reached the 'design-win' stage. By the third quarter it also became clear that
the so-called Asian flu was prompting many of our major North American customers
to defer orders. These two influences had a clearly negative impact on our
revenues and earnings in the last six months of 1998.
But these adverse market conditions didn't derail Spectrum from its corporate
strategy, and we achieved important progress on several fronts in 1998.
Spectrum designs its systems around DSP microprocessors supplied by large chip
manufacturers. Traditionally the majority of our products have been based on DSP
chips from TI. In March, Spectrum acquired the net assets of Alex Computer
Systems Inc., a leader in DSP products based on Analog Devices' (ADI) chip
technology. This important acquisition diversified our product line and enabled
us to respond to the needs of our customers with two superior product lines.
April also saw the grand opening of Spectrum's UK & European sales office,
enhancing our opportunities to build greater market share in this key region of
the world.
As mentioned, a major technology shift in the DSP industry also occurred in 1998
when Texas Instruments launched the 'C6x chip - a new, more powerful generation
of chip technology. By the end of the second quarter Spectrum launched its new
product line based on the TI 'C6x chip, on schedule and ahead of the
competition. Our software engineers also had a busy 1998, and by the end of the
year had initiated a software strategy to combine the talents of the software
teams at Alex, 3L Limited (acquired in 1997) and Spectrum. Our strengthened
software engineering team will focus on speeding our customers' development time
by providing a complete package of easy-to-use software tools.
With the introduction of a new product line and the addition of the Alex
Products, Spectrum's new customer activity was robust in 1998. Spectrum records
the level of new customer activity through the use of the terms "design-in" and
"design-win".
A design-in occurs when a new OEM customer chooses to develop their application
around a Spectrum DSP system. The design-in stage refers to the product design
and prototyping phase of our customers. To qualify as a design-in, projected
revenues for Spectrum over the first 36 months of a new project must be US$ 1
million or more. Spectrum customers typically require 12 to 18 months to finish
their development and prototyping. When this process is complete, they are ready
to commercialize their product, and move into volume production.
<PAGE> 6
When a Spectrum customer places their first volume production order, with
follow-on orders expected, the revenue from that customer increases. Spectrum
considers this a 'design-win'. In 1998, Spectrum counted 41 new design-ins,
close to double our historic rate. During the year the company converted 7 of
these to design-wins and more "wins" are anticipated as customers complete their
design phase. Providing tools and services to our customers to decrease their
development time and get them to the design-win stage sooner is part of
Spectrum's strategy to be a valuable outsourcing partner.
OUR STRATEGY
Spectrum's goal is to increase our market share and maintain our leadership
position as the DSP systems outsourcing partner of choice to customers around
the world. To achieve our goal we need to bring value to our customers that
demonstrates the advantages of outsourcing their DSP development to Spectrum
rather than expending their valuable time and resources building the technology
in-house.
Our customers are looking for a competitive advantage. Spectrum offers that
advantage by providing:
- faster time to market
- lower product development risk
- lower cost of ownership
- easy upgradeability
- commercial off-the-shelf and custom products
The Spectrum advantage includes a world-class team of over 50 design engineers
and 12 years of corporate experience in the DSP systems market. Spectrum's
sophisticated hardware and software systems are combined with a service package
that includes pre- and post-sales technical support, training, and customer
support services around the world. We will continue to anticipate the trends in
the marketplace and the needs of our customers with the addition of products and
services that enhance our current value as a DSP systems outsource partner.
As an outsource partner to company's working in a number of different
industries, Spectrum's sales and marketing team is able to identify high growth
opportunities in niche markets. Often these niche markets have special
technological needs, and based on the revenue opportunities anticipated in
these markets, Spectrum endeavors to create specialized components or product
lines to meet these needs.
In 1998, Spectrum identified radar/sonar, signal intelligence and wireless
communications infrastructure as three important market opportunities. The
Company launched successful product lines for both the radar/sonar and signal
intelligence markets in 1998, and began to develop next generation wireless
communications infrastructure products for launch in 2001. We will continue to
pursue these target markets and identify other growth opportunities going
forward.
LOOKING AHEAD TO 1999
As was the case in 1998, 1999 is likely to remain challenging as the high-end
DSP systems market continues its recovery. Nonetheless, Spectrum is methodically
and deliberately laying the foundation for future growth, and we are clearly
focused on achieving several key milestones in 1999.
Spectrum will continue to watch the line on expenses to ensure that we protect
our profitability until revenue growth returns to traditional levels. Research
and Development spending will be maintained to ensure our technology is leading
edge, and we will continue to target gross margins between 55% and 60%. In
addition, we will continue to de-emphasize sales of licensed product to ensure
that these products make up less than 6% of our total 1999 sales revenue.
<PAGE> 7
In terms of product development, Spectrum will complete its software review in
1999, and launch a new software package coincident with three new product lines
based on TI's 'C67x and 'C6202 chips, and on ADI's ADSP-21160 chip technology.
We will also be seeking collaborative opportunities within the DSP industry to
speed the development of next generation technology. And finally, Spectrum's
management will focus on improving our service and delivery systems so that our
customers continue to realize the rewards of outsourcing their DSP systems
development to Spectrum.
OUR TEAM
While our financial statements will give you a thorough review of our financial
performance, there is one key asset that cannot be captured on our balance
sheet. I am speaking of the team of people who have made Spectrum a world class
company. Their experience, DSP expertise and commitment is unmatched, and I
believe that it is this key asset that will drive Spectrum's future success.
1999 will see Spectrum move into its new and expanded headquarters in Burnaby,
British Columbia. Our new surroundings will reflect the high tech nature
of our business and provide a more effective and interactive work environment
for our employees. We look forward to welcoming customers and shareholders to
the new facility.
I would like to thank Spectrum's valued employees and our Board of Directors for
their continued commitment to Spectrum's success, and would also like to thank
our patient shareholders for their continued support. I look forward to sharing
our progress as 1999 unfolds.
Barry W. Jinks
President & CEO
May 7, 1999
1998 ACHIEVEMENTS
Spectrum reduced its dependence on revenue from the sale of licensed product
from 47% in 1997 to 19% in 1998.
The Spectrum UK and European sales office opened April 1, 1998 expanding sales
opportunities in this key market.
Spectrum acquired the net assets of Alex Computer Systems Inc. diversifying its
product offering.
Spectrum's new product line based on Texas Instruments' 'C6x DSP is launched
on-time and ahead of the competition.
Spectrum experiences record levels of new customer activity with over 41 new
customers developing applications on Spectrum DSP systems.
1999 MILESTONES
Spectrum will launch a new software package to speed our customers' development
time and time to market.
Spectrum will launch three new product lines in 1999 based on Texas Instruments'
'C67x and 'C6202 DSP chips, and Analog Devices' ADSP 21160 DSP.
Spectrum will continue to reduce sales of licensed product to less than 6% of
total annual revenue.
Management will seek collaborative opportunities to speed the development of
next generation technology.
Management will strive to maintain gross margins between 55% and 60%.
<PAGE> 8
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS
SALES
Sales from continuing operations for 1998 were $26,000,000, a decrease of
$207,000, or 0.8%, relative to sales for 1997. Included in sales for 1998 were
development contract fees of $1,530,000, or 5.9%, of sales for the year,
compared to development contract fees of $1,589,000, or 6.1%, of sales for 1997.
Included in sales for 1998 were revenues from the Company's internally developed
C3X, C4X and C6X products of $7,511,000, or 28.9%, of sales for the year,
compared to $6,205,000, or 23.7%, of sales for 1997. Included in sales for 1998
were $4,872,000, or 18.7%, of sales of Loughborough Products compared to
$12,234,000, or 46.7%, of sales for 1997. Sales for 1998 also reflect the
inclusion of $5,791,000, or 22.3%, of sales from Alex Computer Systems ("Alex")
which was acquired in 1998.
GROSS PROFIT
Gross profit increased to $15,393,000 for 1998 from $15,027,000 for 1997, an
increase of 2.4%. Gross margin (profit as a percentage of sales) increased to
59.2% for 1998 from 57.3% for 1997. The increase in gross margin was due
primarily to increased sales in higher gross margin, internally developed
products as opposed to licensed products.
ADMINISTRATIVE, SALES AND MARKETING
Administrative, sales and marketing ("AS&M") expenses consist primarily of
salaries, sales commissions and benefits related to the Company's sales,
marketing and administrative personnel and independent sales representatives.
AS&M expenses for 1998 were $10,621,000, or 40.9%, of sales for the year,
compared to $7,915,000, or 30.2%, of sales for 1997. AS&M expenses were higher
by $2,706,000 in 1998 due mainly to the costs associated with increased European
and Asian sales and marketing initiatives (approximately $1,016,000), the
inclusion of AS&M expenses of Alex Computer Systems acquired in March 1998
(approximately $650,000), and an increase in the Company's North American sales
and marketing staff levels (approximately $1,062,000).
AMORTIZATION
Amortization consists of the depreciation of the Company's fixed assets and
amortization of goodwill and other intangibles. Amortization expense for 1998
was $1,299,000 an increase of $655,000, or 101.7% over 1997. The increase in
amortization expense was due primarily to an increased investment in goodwill
and other intangibles related to the acquisition of the net assets of Alex
Computer Systems in 1998.
ACQUIRED IN-PROCESS RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CHARGE
Acquired in-process research and development ("IPR&D") represents the value
assigned in a purchase business combination to research and development
projects of the acquired business that were commenced but not yet completed at
the date of acquisition and which, if unsuccessful, have no alternative future
use in research and development activities or otherwise. An IPR&D charge of
$2,640,000 was expensed in 1998, compared to $872,000 in 1997. The 1998 charge
was recorded in conjunction with the purchase of the net assets of Alex Computer
Systems based on management's discounted cash flow valuation. The 1997 charge
was recorded in conjunction with the purchase of 3L Limited. Although the
Company had reported its quarterly and annual results for 1998 in accordance
with established accounting practice, in April 1999 it adjusted its 1998
financial statements largely in response to new guidance recently provided by
the Securities and Exchange Commission to the accounting profession related to
the valuation of IPR&D in purchase transactions. None of the adjustments related
to the Alex intangibles impact the Company's net operating cash flow. While the
Company feels it statements are in-line with the new SEC policy on IPR&D, the
SEC is still in the process of completing a final review of the Company's 1998
financial statements. It is uncertain when that final review will be completed
or whether the results of that review will further affect Spectrum's 1998
results. If the SEC reduces the one-time charge for IPR&D, this would
effectively increase Spectrum's 1998 results (or reduce the Company's losses),
while increasing both the amount of goodwill capitalized and the amount of
amortization expense in 1998 and in future years.
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
Research and development ("R&D") expenses consist primarily of salaries, related
personnel benefits, engineering service costs relating to development contract
fees and direct overhead costs. R&D expenses were $4,374,000 for 1998, or 16.8%
of sales for the period, compared to $2,536,000 for 1997, or 9.7% of sales for
such period. The expenses in 1998 consisted primarily of costs associated with
new product developments undertaken by the Company. Total research and
development expenditures for continuing operations and those capitalized as
software and related development costs were $4,851,000 for 1998, or 18.7%, of
sales for the year, compared to $4,233,000, or 16.2%, of sales for 1997.
OTHER INCOME
Other income, consisting primarily of interest income on short-term deposits and
interest expense on bank indebtedness was an expense of $156,000 for 1998
compared to other income of $14,000 for 1997. This change was due primarily to
increased working capital borrowings under the Company's Line of Credit during
1998.
F-1
<PAGE> 9
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS, CONTINUED
INCOME TAXES
The Company's income tax provision (recovery) for 1998 was $(789,000), or
(21.3%) of earnings before taxes and discontinued operations, compared to
$1,534,000, or 49.9% of earnings before taxes and discontinued operations for
1997. The percentage for 1998 was unusually low due to the significant impact of
the acquired in-process research and development charge in the first quarter of
1998. A significant portion of this charge is non-deductible for tax purposes.
The Company's income tax provision (recovery) for 1998 was 74.6% of earnings
before taxes and the charge related to in-process research and development. When
the portion of the income tax provision related to the acquired in-process
research and development is removed, the remaining income tax provision was
30.3% of earnings before taxes and the charge related to in-process research and
development.
NET EARNINGS
The Company had earnings (loss) from continuing operations for 1998 of
$(2,908,000), compared to earnings (loss) from continuing operations for 1997 of
$1,540,000. Earnings (loss) per share (basic) from continuing operations in 1998
was $(0.29) per share, compared to earnings (loss) per share (basic) from
continuing operations of $0.17 per share in 1997. Earnings (loss) from
continuing operations before the charge related to acquired in-process research
and development for 1998 was $(268,000), or earnings (loss) of $(0.03) per share
(basic), compared to earnings (loss) from continuing operations before the
charge related to acquired in-process research and development of $2,412,000, or
earnings (loss) of $0.26 per share (basic) in 1997.
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
In 1993, the Company introduced its first Computer Telephony ("CTI") products
for sale to OEMs and to consumers directly through retail distribution channels.
In 1994, the Company developed a new release of its CTI product for high volume
production targeted to leading OEM customers such as IBM and OMRON. In 1994, the
Company recorded a charge against inventory relating to its first generation
retail CTI product, and in 1995 the Company terminated its retail distribution
efforts due to high marketing costs and a failure to achieve significant market
penetration, which resulted in operating losses. In 1997, the Company initiated
plans to discontinue the operations of its desktop CTI business due to low gross
margins prevalent in this market segment. Sales of desktop CTI products
accounted for 32.2% of sales in 1996 and 1.9% of sales in 1997. The Company's
desktop CTI operations were closed effective December 31, 1997.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The Company has historically met its operating and capital requirements from
cash flow from operations and from funds generated by sale of its equity
securities.
The Company has a credit facility with the Bank of Montreal (the "Bank")
consisting of a Cdn$5,000,000 (approximately US$3,300,000) operating line of
credit (the "Line of Credit"). The Company's US dollar borrowing capacity under
its Canadian dollar-denominated Line of Credit will vary period to period based
on exchange rate fluctuations. Borrowings under the Line of Credit bear interest
at the Bank's US base rate plus 1/2%, unless the borrowings are denominated in
Canadian dollars, in which case the rate of interest is the Bank's prime rate
plus 1/2%. Borrowings are due on demand and interest is to be paid monthly.
Borrowings may not exceed certain percentages of a specified borrowing base
consisting of domestic and foreign accounts receivable and inventories. The Line
of Credit agreement requires the Company to maintain certain financial ratios,
including a current ratio of 1.50 to 1.00 and a debt to tangible net worth ratio
of 1.25 to 1.00. The Company believes it is in substantial compliance with the
terms of the Line of Credit. Borrowings under the Line of Credit are secured by
substantially all of the Company's current assets. At March 31, 1999, the
Company had net outstanding borrowings under the Line of Credit of approximately
US$233,000.
At December 31, 1998 and December 31, 1997, the Company's net cash (overdraft)
position was $(509,000) and $1,383,000 respectively. Net cash provided by (used
in) operations, financing and investments was $310,000 and $(94,000) in the
years ended December 31, 1998 and 1997 respectively. For 1998, cash used in
operations, financing and investments consisted primarily of cash generated from
the issuance of Common Shares, warrants and long-term debt. Cash was used
primarily for the acquisition of the net assets of Alex Computer Systems,
funding operations, and the purchase of property and equipment and software and
related development costs. For 1997, cash used in operations, financing and
investments consisted primarily of cash from operations, and proceeds from the
issuance of Common Shares upon the exercise of outstanding stock options. Cash
was used primarily for the acquisition of 3L Limited, to increase inventories,
fund discontinued operations, purchase treasury shares and for the purchase of
property and equipment and software and related development costs. For 1996,
cash provided by operations, financing and investments consisted principally of
cash from continuing and discontinued operations and proceeds from the issuance
of Common Shares upon the exercise of outstanding stock options. Cash was used
primarily to increase accounts receivable and for the purchase of property and
equipment and software and related development costs.
F-2
<PAGE> 10
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS, CONTINUED
Accounts receivable, net at December 31, 1998 and December 31, 1997 was
$5,404,000 and $6,549,000 respectively. The Company's standard collection terms
are net 30 days, subject to adjustment for certain customers.
The Company made capital expenditures of $1,036,000 and $2,433,000 during 1998
and 1997, respectively, primarily for computer equipment and software and
related development costs. In 1997, the Company invested $1,202,000 in the
purchase of treasury shares and invested $746,000 in the acquisition of 100% of
the shares of 3L Limited, net of $188,000 in cash acquired. On March 17, 1998,
the Company effectively acquired pursuant to an acquisition agreement the net
assets of Alex Computer Systems. The consideration paid by the Company consisted
of $675,000 in cash, the assumption of $1,074,000 in liabilities, and the
issuance of 772,626 Common Shares and a two year warrant to purchase 110,375
Common Shares of an exercise price of Cdn$9.06 (USD$6.34) per share.
The Company believes that cash generated from operations and borrowings
available under the Line of Credit will be sufficient to meet its working
capital and capital expenditure requirements in 1999. However, the Company may
in the future require additional equity or debt financing to meet its working
capital, property and equipment and acquisition requirements. There can be no
assurance that additional financing will not be required sooner, or, if
required, that it will be available on a timely basis or on terms satisfactory
to the Company.
LITIGATION
The Company has initiated a lawsuit against Alex Informatics Inc. seeking
recovery of approximately $255,000 in expenses incurred in connection with the
acquisition of the net assets of Alex Computer Systems, Inc. reimbursable to
Spectrum under the terms of the acquisition agreement relating thereto.
INFLATION, FOREIGN CURRENCY FLUCTUATIONS AND HEDGING
The Company believes that inflation and other changes in prices have not had a
material effect on the Company. The Company intends to continue to sell the
majority of its products in US dollars while incurring costs in varying
proportions in Canadian dollars, US dollars and other currencies. Thus, the
Company's operations are susceptible to fluctuations in currency exchange rates.
In addition, if the Canadian dollar rises relative to the US dollar, the
Company's reported operating expenses and net income may be materially and
adversely affected. Since 1995, the Company has entered into futures contracts
to attempt to reduce a portion of its exposure to foreign exchange rate
fluctuations. Such contracts typically have maturities of no greater than three
months when entered into. The market price of such contracts generally
approaches the spot exchange rates as the contract approaches expiration of its
term. The maximum amount the Company has hedged under such futures contracts at
any one time is Cdn$3,000,000. While the Company does attempt to mitigate some
of the risks of exchange rate fluctuations between the US dollar and the
Canadian dollar by denominating many of its payment obligations in US dollars
and, to a lesser extent, through its use of exchange-traded or over-the-counter
contracts, there can be no assurance that these strategies will substantially
reduce the potential adverse effect of exchange rate fluctuations on the
Company's business, financial condition or results of operations.
YEAR 2000 ISSUE
The Company has established a Year 2000 program to coordinate and monitor the
assessment, conversion or replacement, and testing of computer systems
throughout the Company to ensure key business information and process control
systems will function successfully after December 31, 1999. In addition, the
Company is taking steps to ensure that all relevant non-information technology
systems will be Year 2000 compliant. Potential Year 2000 risks could include,
without limitation, a temporary inability to engage in normal business
activities such as conducting general banking tasks, invoicing, and materials
planning and purchasing. The Company has determined that its major internal
system, the MRP system, is Year 2000 compliant, which means that internal order
processing and filling will be unaffected.
The Company has committed resources to address its potential Year 2000 problems.
Progress on Year 2000 issues is centrally coordinated, with regular reporting to
the Audit Committee and the full Board of Directors. The Company has completed
its assessment of internal Year 2000 issues. The Company does not expect to
incur any costs in remediating (where required) any Year 2000 issues relating to
its business, other than the time spent by employees on ensuring compliance. In
any case, total costs to the Company with respect to its Year 2000 compliance
activities are not anticipated to be material to the Company's financial
condition or results of operations in any given year. These costs and the date
on which the Company plans to complete Year 2000 modification and testing
processes are based on management's best estimates, which were derived utilizing
numerous assumptions. However, there can be no guarantee that these estimates
will prove to be accurate and actual results could differ significantly.
As the Company relies on third party suppliers for utilities, transportation,
and other key services, interruption of supplier operations could affect the
Company's operations, however, this risk is being assessed and contingency plans
being developed. The
F-3
<PAGE> 11
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS, CONTINUED
Company has initiated communications with suppliers with which it does
significant business to determine the extent to which the Company may be
vulnerable to such parties' failure to remedy their own Year 2000 problems. The
Company expects to complete its assessment of third party Year 2000 risks by
June 30, 1999. There can be no assurance that the systems of such suppliers will
be converted on a timely basis.
The Company's Year 2000 contingency plans are as follows: (i) all "critical
path" systems are being identified and testing will be continuous, (ii) back-up
systems are being put in place for alternate suppliers for all aspects of
production and delivery, and (iii) the Company already has in place a redundant
system of supply for its manufactured products. Continuing monitoring and risk
management are taking place and the Company's contingency plans will be updated
as new issues are identified. Based on its current assessment, management
believes the Year 2000 issue will not have a material adverse effect on the
Company's business, financial conditions, or results of operations.
AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE SHAREHOLDERS
We have audited the consolidated balance sheets of Spectrum Signal Processing
Inc. as at December 31, 1998 and 1997 and the consolidated statements of
operations, stockholders' equity and cash flows for each of the years in the
three year period ended December 31, 1998. 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 Canadian generally accepted auditing
standards. 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 financial position of the Company as at December 31, 1998
and 1997 and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the
years in the three year period ended December 31, 1998 in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles in the United States.
On February 4, 1999, we reported separately to the shareholders of the Company
on the consolidated financial statements as at and for the periods presented
above, which consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with
Canadian generally accepted accounting principles.
"kpmg llp"
Chartered Accountants
Richmond, Canada
February 4, 1999
F-4
<PAGE> 12
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(EXPRESSED IN THOUSANDS OF UNITED STATES DOLLARS)
PREPARED IN ACCORDANCE WITH UNITED STATES GENERALLY ACCEPTED ACCOUNTING
PRINCIPLES.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31,
1998 1997
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,693 $ 1,383
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $173 (1997 - $170) 5,404 6,549
Inventories 4,935 4,061
Prepaid expenses 203 220
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12,235 12,213
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT (NOTE 3) 2,287 2,448
OTHER ASSETS (NOTE 4) 4,925 1,823
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 19,447 $ 16,484
======================================================================================================================
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Bank indebtedness (note 5) $ 2,202 $ --
Accounts payable 3,680 2,990
Accrued liabilities 1,303 1,690
Deferred revenue -- 19
Current portion of long-term debt (note 5) 80 --
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7,265 4,699
LONG-TERM DEBT (NOTE 5) 75 75
DEFERRED INCOME TAXES (NOTE 7) 346 1,223
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
SHARE CAPITAL (NOTE 6)
Authorized 50,000,000 common shares, no par value
Issued 10,268,954 (1997 - 9,459,397) 16,309 11,373
Outstanding 10,035,654 (1997 - 9,226,097)
Warrants (note 6) 140 --
Additional paid-in capital 76 76
Treasury stock, at cost, 233,300 shares (1997 - 233,300) (1,232) (1,232)
Retained earnings (deficit) (1,671) 1,237
Accumulated other comprehensive income
Cumulative translation adjustments (1,861) (967)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Commitments and contingencies (notes 9 & 14) 11,761 10,487
$ 19,447 $ 16,484
======================================================================================================================
</TABLE>
SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
F-5
<PAGE> 13
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(EXPRESSED IN THOUSANDS OF UNITED STATES DOLLARS)
PREPARED IN ACCORDANCE WITH UNITED STATES GENERALLY ACCEPTED ACCOUNTING
PRINCIPLES.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEARS ENDED
DECEMBER 31,
1998 1997 1996
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
SALES (NOTE 10) $ 26,000 $ 26,207 $ 20,063
COST OF SALES 10,607 11,180 8,340
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15,393 15,027 11,723
EXPENSES
Administrative 3,417 3,146 3,049
Sales and marketing 7,204 4,769 3,880
Amortization 1,299 644 497
Acquired in-process research and development charge 2,640 872 --
Research and development 4,374 2,536 2,130
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
18,934 11,967 9,556
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EARNINGS (LOSS) FROM OPERATIONS (3,541) 3,060 2,167
OTHER
Interest income (expense) and bank charges (149) 2 (23)
Other income (expense) (7) 12 29
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(156) 14 6
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EARNINGS (LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAXES AND DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS (3,697) 3,074 2,173
INCOME TAX EXPENSE (RECOVERY) (NOTE 7)
Current 88 -- --
Deferred (877) 1,534 724
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(789) 1,534 724
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EARNINGS (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS (2,908) 1,540 1,449
EARNINGS (LOSS) FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS (NOTE 11) -- (535) 129
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET EARNINGS (LOSS) $ (2,908) $ 1,005 $ 1,578
=================================================================================================================
EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE (NOTE 8)
Basic
From continuing operations $ (0.29) $ 0.17 $ 0.16
After discontinued operations $ (0.29) $ 0.11 $ 0.17
Diluted
From continuing operations $ (0.29) $ 0.16 $ 0.15
After discontinued operations $ (0.29) $ 0.10 $ 0.16
Weighted average shares (in thousands)
Basic 9,860 9,235 9,195
Diluted 9,860 9,608 9,782
=================================================================================================================
</TABLE>
SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
F-6
<PAGE> 14
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
(EXPRESSED IN THOUSANDS OF UNITED STATES DOLLARS, EXCEPT NUMBERS OF SHARES)
PREPARED IN ACCORDANCE WITH UNITED STATES GENERALLY ACCEPTED ACCOUNTING
PRINCIPLES.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Additional Retained
Common Stock Paid in Warrants Treasury Stock Earnings
Number Amount Capital Number Amount Number Amount (Deficit)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
BALANCE,
DECEMBER 31, 1995 9,163,974 $ 9,891 $76 -- $ -- (16,400) $ (30) $(1,346)
Net earnings -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 1,578
Foreign currency
translation -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Issued for cash from
share options 79,709 364 -- -- -- -- -- --
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE,
DECEMBER 31, 1996 9,243,683 10,255 76 -- -- (16,400) (30) 232
Net earnings -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 1,005
Foreign currency
translation -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Issued for cash from
share options 42,381 184 -- -- -- -- -- --
Issued for acquisition
of 3L Limited 173,333 934 -- -- -- -- -- --
Purchase of treasury
stock -- -- -- -- -- (216,900) (1,202) --
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE,
DECEMBER 31, 1997 9,459,397 11,373 76 -- -- (233,300) (1,232) 1,237
Net loss -- -- -- -- -- -- -- (2,908)
Foreign currency
translation -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Issued for cash from
share options 36,931 149 -- -- -- -- -- --
Issued for net assets of
Alex Computer
Systems Inc. 772,626 4,787 -- -- -- -- -- --
Issuance of warrants -- -- -- 110,375 140 -- -- --
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE,
DECEMBER 31, 1998 10,268,954 $16,309 $76 110,375 $140 (233,300) $(1,232) $(1,671)
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Accumulated
other
comprehensive Comprehensive
income(loss) Total Income(loss)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
BALANCE,
DECEMBER 31, 1995 $ (502) $ 8,089 $ --
=======
Net earnings -- 1,578 1,578
Foreign currency
translation (108) (108) (108)
Issued for cash from
share options -- 364 --
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE,
DECEMBER 31, 1996 (610) 9,923 1,470
=======
Net earnings -- 1,005 1,005
Foreign currency
translation (357) (357) (357)
Issued for cash from
share options -- 184 --
Issued for acquisition
of 3L Limited -- 934 --
Purchase of treasury
stock -- (1,202) --
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE,
DECEMBER 31, 1997 (967) 10,487 648
=======
Net loss -- (2,908) (2,908)
Foreign currency
translation (894) (894) (894)
Issued for cash from
share options -- 149 --
Issued for net assets of
Alex Computer
Systems Inc. -- 4,787 --
Issuance of warrants -- 140 --
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE,
DECEMBER 31, 1998 $(1,861) $ 11,761 $(3,802)
=======
</TABLE>
SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
F-7
<PAGE> 15
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(EXPRESSED IN THOUSANDS OF UNITED STATES DOLLARS)
PREPARED IN ACCORDANCE WITH UNITED STATES GENERALLY ACCEPTED ACCOUNTING
PRINCIPLES.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEARS ENDED
DECEMBER 31,
1998 1997 1996
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net earnings (loss) $(2,908) $ 1,005 $ 1,578
Deduct (add) earnings (loss) from discontinued operations -- 535 (129)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations (2,908) 1,540 $ 1,449
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings (loss) to net cash
provided by operating activities
Amortization 1,915 781 641
Acquired in-process research and development 2,640 872 --
Deferred income taxes (826) 1,534 724
Deferred share issue costs -- 193 --
Changes in operating assets and liabilities
Accounts receivable 1,154 1,882 (3,440)
Inventories (739) (2,311) 571
Prepaid expenses 2 311 (230)
Accounts payable 149 (366) 501
Accrued liabilities 150 488 635
Deferred revenue (18) (616) 635
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by continuing operations 1,519 4,308 1,486
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations -- (535) 129
Deferred income taxes, an item not involving cash -- (340) 64
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by (used for) discontinued operations -- (875) 193
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by operating activities 1,519 3,433 1,679
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Purchase of property and equipment (559) (1,040) (1,042)
Proceeds from disposition of property and equipment 1 -- --
Software and related development costs (477) (1,393) (631)
Acquisition of net assets of Alex Computer, net of cash received (2,204) -- --
Cash received on acquisition of 3L Limited, net of expenses -- 188 --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash used for investing activities (3,239) (2,245) (1,673)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Increase in bank indebtedness 2,036 -- --
Payment of deferred share issue costs -- -- (193)
Issue of shares from share options 149 184 364
Principal payments on long-term debt (61) (7) (30)
Purchase of treasury shares -- (1,202) --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities 2,124 (1,025) 141
Effect of foreign currency exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents (94) (257) (77)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS DURING THE YEAR 310 (94) 70
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF YEAR 1,383 1,477 1,407
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF YEAR $ 1,693 $ 1,383 $ 1,477
============================================================================================================
</TABLE>
SEE SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION NOTE 13. SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
F-8
<PAGE> 16
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998, 1997 AND 1996
(EXPRESSED IN THOUSANDS OF UNITED STATES DOLLARS EXCEPT SHARE AMOUNTS AND
NUMBERS OF SHARES) PREPARED IN ACCORDANCE WITH UNITED STATES GENERALLY ACCEPTED
ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES.
The Company was incorporated under the laws of British Columbia and its
principal business activities include the design, manufacture and marketing of
digital signal processing systems for incorporation into high performance
applications for original equipment manufacturers for commercial markets such as
surveillance and wireless base stations, remote sensing, and multi-channel
modems and for military and aerospace markets.
1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting
principles generally accepted in the United States.
BASIS OF CONSOLIDATION
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and
its wholly-owned subsidiary 3L Limited. All material intercompany balances and
transactions have been eliminated.
USE OF ESTIMATES
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that
affect the reported amounts of assets, particularly the recoverability of
property and equipment and other assets, and liabilities and the disclosure of
contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and
the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.
Actual results could differ from the estimates.
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
Cash equivalents include short term deposits, which are all highly marketable
securities with a maturity of three months or less when acquired. Short term
deposits are valued at cost.
INVENTORIES
The Company uses the average cost method of accounting for its inventory.
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost and net realizable value and consist
of:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Finished goods $2,683 $2,185
Work in progress 1,132 --
Raw materials 1,120 1,876
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$4,935 $4,061
================================================================================
</TABLE>
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT COSTS
Research and development costs are expensed as incurred. Software development
costs related to software which will become an integral part of the Company's
products are, after the establishment of technological feasibility, capitalized
until the product is available for general release to customers. Annual
amortization is the greater of the ratio of current product revenue to the total
current and anticipated product revenue or the straight-line method over the
remaining estimated economic life, generally three years. Amortization commences
when the product is available for general release to customers. Research and
development costs and capitalized software and related development costs can be
summarized as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEARS ENDED
DECEMBER 31,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Research and development
expense
Continuing operations $4,374 $2,536 $2,130
Discontinued operations -- 304 639
Capitalized software
and related
development costs 477 1,393 631
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$4,851 $4,233 $3,400
================================================================================
</TABLE>
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Property and equipment are initially recorded at cost. Amortization is
subsequently provided on the following assets using the declining balance basis
at the following annual rates:
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Computer equipment 30%
Computer software 20%
Furniture and fixtures 20%
Laboratory equipment 20%
</TABLE>
Amortization of leasehold improvements is provided on a straight-line basis over
the lesser of their estimated useful lives or the lease term.
LICENSE
The Company has the North American license to manufacture and distribute
computer peripherals for digital signal processing systems designed by
Loughborough Sound Images Ltd. The license was recorded at a nominal value of $1
and expired in July 1997. During 1997, the Company negotiated a non-exclusive
extension of manufacturing rights to 2002 and distribution rights to January 17,
1999. Both the manufacturing and distribution rights may be extended under
certain conditions.
EMPLOYEE STOCK PLANS
The Company accounts for its employee stock option plans using the intrinsic
value method.
TRANSLATION OF FOREIGN CURRENCIES
A majority of the Company's shareholders, customers, and industry analysts are
located in the United States. Accordingly, effective January 1, 1998, the
Company adopted the U.S. dollar as its reporting currency. Historical figures
previously reported in Canadian dollars have been translated into U.S. dollars
as follows: assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars at the rate
of exchange in effect at the balance sheet date and revenue and expense items
are translated at the average rates for the period. Unrealized gains and losses
resulting from the translation to the reporting currency are accumulated in a
separate component of shareholders' equity, described as cumulative translation
adjustments.
The Company's functional currency is the Canadian dollar. The Company's
financial statements are prepared in Canadian dollars before translation to the
U.S. dollar report-
F-9
<PAGE> 17
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998, 1997 AND 1996
(EXPRESSED IN THOUSANDS OF UNITED STATES DOLLARS EXCEPT SHARE AMOUNTS AND
NUMBERS OF SHARES) PREPARED IN ACCORDANCE WITH UNITED STATES GENERALLY ACCEPTED
ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES.
ing currency. Accordingly, foreign currency denominated balances of the Company
are measured in Canadian dollars. Under this method, monetary assets and
liabilities denominated in a foreign currency have been remeasured in Canadian
dollars at the rate of exchange in effect at the balance sheet date. Other
assets, revenue and expense items are measured using the rate of exchange
prevailing at their respective transaction dates. Exchange gains and losses
resulting from the remeasurement of foreign denominated monetary assets and
liabilities in Canadian dollars are reflected in earnings for the period.
Financial statements of foreign operations for which the functional currency is
the local currency are translated into Canadian dollars using the current rate
at the balance sheet date. Under this method, assets and liabilities are
translated into Canadian dollars at the rate of exchange in effect at the
balance sheet date and revenue and expense items are translated at the average
rates for the period. Unrealized gains and losses resulting from the translation
of the financial statements are deferred and accumulated in a separate component
of shareholders' equity, described as cumulative translation adjustments.
GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES
Goodwill and other intangibles are stated on the basis of cost, based on fair
value at the acquisition date, less accumulated amortization. Amortization is
recorded utilizing the straight-line method over the estimated lives of the
respective assets, generally three to six years.
REVENUE RECOGNITION
Revenue is recognized upon the later of shipment or when title passes to the
customer. Revenue from product development contracts is recognized upon reaching
certain development milestones which are generally correlated to the timing of
payments.
WARRANTY
The Company generally provides a one year warranty to the original purchaser.
Warranty costs are accrued based on a best estimate, with reference to past
experience, at the time of sale.
INCOME TAXES
The Company calculates its provision for income taxes in accordance with
Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 109 "Accounting for Income Taxes"
("FAS 109"), which requires an asset and liability approach to financial
accounting for income taxes. Under this method, deferred income taxes are
recognized for the future income tax consequences attributable to differences
between the financial statement carrying values and their respective income tax
basis (temporary differences). The resulting changes in the net deferred tax
asset or liability are included in income. Deferred tax assets and liabilities
are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the
years in which temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled.
The effect on deferred income tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax
rates is included in income in the period that includes the enactment date.
Deferred income tax assets are evaluated and if realization is not considered
"more likely than not", a valuation allowance is provided.
The Company follows the cost reduction method of accounting for investment tax
credits whereby the benefit of tax credits is recognized as a reduction in the
cost of the related asset or expenditure when there is reasonable assurance the
tax credits will be realized.
SHARE ISSUE COSTS
The costs of issuing common shares, net of income tax recoveries thereon, are
applied to reduce the proceeds of such shares.
FOREIGN CURRENCY HEDGING INSTRUMENTS
The Company enters into future exchange contracts to hedge its foreign currency
risks. Such contracts must be effective at reducing the foreign currency risk
associated with the underlying transaction being hedged and must be designated
as a hedge at the inception of the contract.
The Company currently uses future exchange contracts as hedges of firmly
committed transactions. For these contracts, gains and losses are recognized as
other income or expense in the current period, generally consistent with the
period in which the gain or loss of the underlying transaction is recognized.
IMPAIRMENT OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS
The Company monitors the recoverability of long-lived assets, based on factors
such as future asset utilization, business climate and future undiscounted cash
flows expected to result from the use of the related assets. The Company's
policy is to record an impairment loss in the period when it is determined that
the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable, at which time the asset
is written down to fair market value.
COMPARATIVE FIGURES
Certain comparative figures have been reclassified to conform with the
presentation adopted in the current year.
RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards ("FAS") No. 130, "Reporting Comprehensive Income." FAS No.
130 established standards for reporting and displaying comprehensive income and
its components in the financial statements. The Company adopted FAS No. 130 for
its fiscal year 1998.
The FASB issued FAS No. 131, "Disclosures About Segments of an Enterprise and
Related Information." FAS No. 131 established standards for the manner in which
public companies report information about operating segments in annual and
interim financial statements. The Company adopted FAS No. 131 for its fiscal
year ended 1998.
The FASB issued FAS No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging
Activities". FAS No. 133 established standards relating to the recognition and
disclosure of all aspects of derivative instruments and hedging activities. The
Company is currently evaluating the impact of FAS No. 133. The Company will be
required to implement FAS No. 133 for its fiscal year ended 2000.
The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants ("AICPA") issued
Statement of Position ("SOP") 97-2, "Software Revenue Recognition." SOP 97-2
established standards relating to the recognition of all aspects of software
revenue. SOP 97-2 required the Company to modify certain aspects of its revenue
recognition policies. The adoption of SOP 97-2 did not have a material impact on
the Company's consolidated results of operations. The Company implemented SOP
97-2 for its fiscal year 1998, on a prospective basis.
The AICPA issued SOP 98-1, "Accounting for the Costs of Computer Software
Developed or Obtained for Internal
F-10
<PAGE> 18
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998, 1997 AND 1996
(EXPRESSED IN THOUSANDS OF UNITED STATES DOLLARS EXCEPT SHARE AMOUNTS AND
NUMBERS OF SHARES) PREPARED IN ACCORDANCE WITH UNITED STATES GENERALLY ACCEPTED
ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES.
Use." SOP 98-1 requires certain costs related to the development or purchase of
internal-use software, including "upgrades and enhancements," to be capitalized
an amortized over the estimated useful life of the software. SOP 98-1 is
effective for transactions entered into in fiscal years beginning after December
15, 1998. The Company does not expect the adoption of SOP 98-1 to have a
material impact on the Company's consolidated results of operations.
2. ACQUISITION OF NET ASSETS OF ALEX COMPUTER SYSTEMS INC.
On March 17, 1998 the Company acquired the majority of the operating assets and
liabilities of Alex Computer Systems Inc, of Ithaca, New York. The acquisition
has been accounted for using the purchase method of accounting and the results
of operations have been consolidated since the date of the acquisition. The
Company's interest in the net assets acquired at assigned values are as follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Cash $ 10
Current assets 1,093
Property and equipment 229
Goodwill and other intangibles 4,243
Acquired in-process research
and development 2,640
Current liabilities (933)
Long-term liabilities (141)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Acquisition cost $ 7,141
===============================================================================
Consideration
772,626 common shares $ 4,787
110,375 warrants 140
Cash 675
Expenses on acquisition 1,539
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 7,141
===============================================================================
</TABLE>
Each Common Share issued pursuant to the acquisition agreement was valued at the
average closing price of the Common Shares on the NASDAQ National Market during
the 30 trading days prior to the date of the acquisition agreement.
Acquired technology valued at $1,010 was acquired as part of the acquisition of
the net assets of Alex Computer Systems ("Alex"). Acquired technology consisted
of Alex's generation one product line, a two-year license for the use of the
Alex name as well as Alex's product brand names, customer account lists, sales
and distribution channels, technical development expertise, patents, copyrights
and existing technical inventory. The Company has capitalized the value
attributable to acquired technology in accordance with the provisions of FAS No.
2 "Accounting for Research and Development Costs". Amortization is recorded
utilizing the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the
respective assets, generally three to five years.
Acquired in-process research and development represents the value assigned in a
purchase business combination to research and development projects of the
acquired business that were commenced but not yet completed at the date of
acquisition and which, if unsuccessful, have no alternative future use in
research and development activities or otherwise. Acquired in-process research
and development consisted of Alex's generation two research and development
projects. Such generation two research and development projects did not
represent an improvement of nor redesign of its generation one products. In
accordance with FAS No. 2 as interpreted by FASB interpretation No. 4, amounts
assigned to acquired in-process research and development meeting the above
criteria must be charged to expense at the date of consummation of the purchase
business combination. In this regard, a charge of $2,640 was recorded in
conjunction with the purchase of the net assets of Alex Computer Systems based
on managements' discounted cash flow valuation.
The following unaudited pro-forma results of operations assume that the
acquisition occurred as of the beginning of the respective periods presented.
The pro-forma information given below does not purport to be indicative of the
results that actually would have been obtained if the operations were combined
during the periods presented, and is not intended to be a projection of future
results or trends.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEARS ENDED
DECEMBER 31,
1998 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
(Unaudited)
Revenue $ 27,033 $29,544
Earnings (loss) from
continuing operations (2,911) 2,650
Net earnings (loss) (2,911) 2,115
Earnings (loss) per share
From continuing operations $ (0.30) $ 0.29
Net $ (0.30) $ 0.23
</TABLE>
3. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31,
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Computer equipment $ 2,527 $ 2,103
Computer software 1,039 941
Furniture and fixtures 820 753
Laboratory equipment 619 503
Leasehold improvements 296 296
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5,301 4,596
Less accumulated amortization (3,014) (2,148)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net book value $ 2,287 $ 2,448
===============================================================================
</TABLE>
F-11
<PAGE> 19
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998, 1997 AND 1996
(EXPRESSED IN THOUSANDS OF UNITED STATES DOLLARS EXCEPT SHARE AMOUNTS AND
NUMBERS OF SHARES) PREPARED IN ACCORDANCE WITH UNITED STATES GENERALLY ACCEPTED
ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES.
4. OTHER ASSETS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Software and related development
costs net of accumulated
amortization of $876
(1997 - $274) $1,534 $1,823
Goodwill and other intangibles, net
of accumulated amortization of $554
(1997 - nil) 3,391 --
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$4,925 $1,823
================================================================================
</TABLE>
5. LONG-TERM DEBT AND BANK INDEBTEDNESS
(a) BANK INDEBTEDNESS
The Company has a credit facility with the Bank of Montreal (the "Bank")
consisting of a Cdn $5,000,000 (approximately US$3,300,000) operating line of
credit (the "Line of Credit"). The Company's US dollar borrowing capacity under
its Canadian dollar denominated Line of Credit will vary period to period based
on exchange rate fluctuations. Borrowings under the Line of Credit bear interest
at the Bank's U.S. base rate plus 1/2%, unless borrowings are denominated in
Canadian dollars, in which case the rate of interest is the Bank's prime rate
plus 1/2%. Borrowings are due on demand and interest is to be paid monthly.
Borrowings may not exceed certain percentages of a specified borrowing base
consisting of domestic and foreign accounts receivable and inventories. The Line
of Credit agreement requires the Company to maintain certain financial ratios
and limits capital expenditures. Borrowings under the Line of Credit are secured
by substantially all of the Company's current assets.
(b) LONG-TERM DEBT
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31,
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Development loan
The Company has received a loan from
Lothian and Edinburgh Enterprise
Limited ("LEEL") for the purpose of
product development. There are no
formal terms of repayment, and
royalty payments are to be made to
LEEL based on gross sales revenue of
the particular product. If the Company
does not meet all the terms of the loan
it becomes repayable on demand. $ 75 $75
Capital lease
The Company leases office equipment
under a capital lease expiring August 1, 1999.
Under the terms of the lease, the Company
makes monthly installments of $8, including
interest at 9.58%, with a final payment
of $24 on August 1, 1999. 80 --
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
155 75
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less: current portion (80) --
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 75 $75
=========================================================================
Minimum principal repayments over the
term of the capital lease are as follows:
1999 $ 84
Less: amount representing interest (4)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
80
Less: current portion (80)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ --
=========================================================================
</TABLE>
F-12
<PAGE> 20
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998, 1997 AND 1996
(EXPRESSED IN THOUSANDS OF UNITED STATES DOLLARS EXCEPT SHARE AMOUNTS AND
NUMBERS OF SHARES) PREPARED IN ACCORDANCE WITH UNITED STATES GENERALLY ACCEPTED
ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES.
6. SHARE CAPITAL
(a) STOCK OPTION PLAN
The Company has reserved 2,650,000 common shares for issuance under its stock
option plan. The plan provides for the granting of stock options to directors,
officers and eligible employees at the fair market value of the Company's stock
at the grant date.
Options generally vest over three years in equal amounts at the anniversary date
of the grant. Options generally have a five year term with ten years being the
maximum.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Years ended December 31,
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997
----------------------------- ----------------------------
Weighted Weighted
Number of Average Number of Average
shares Exercise Price shares Exercise Price
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cdn USD Cdn USD
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Outstanding, beginning of year 1,657,288 $ 6.63 $ 4.54 1,493,896 $ 6.69 $ 4.58
Granted 312,200 6.80 4.42 330,353 7.74 5.30
Exercised (36,931) 5.94 3.86 (42,381) 6.03 4.13
Canceled (168,673) 7.29 4.74 (124,580) 10.22 6.99
Outstanding, end of year 1,763,884 $ 6.62 $ 4.31 1,657,288 $ 6.63 $ 4.54
==========================================================================================================
Exercisable, end of year 975,197 $ 5.69 $ 3.70 918,201 $ 5.34 $ 3.66
Weighted-average fair value
of options granted during the year $ 4.42 $ 2.96 $ 2.89 $ 1.98
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Years ended December 31,
---------------------------------
1996
---------------------------------
Weighted
Number of Average
shares Exercise Price
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cdn USD
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Outstanding, beginning of year 1,216,646 $ 6.38 $ 4.37
Granted 416,556 12.50 8.56
Exercised (79,709) 6.23 4.27
Canceled (59,597) 11.72 8.03
Outstanding, end of year 1,493,896 $ 6.69 $ 4.58
==========================================================================
Exercisable, end of year 709,456 $ 4.43 $ 3.03
Weighted-average fair value
of options granted during the year $ 6.26 $ 4.29
</TABLE>
Information regarding the stock options outstanding at December 31, 1998 is
summarized below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Options Outstanding Options Exercisable
----------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------
Weighted
Average Weighted Weighted
Remaining Average Average
Range of Exercise Shares Contractual Exercise Shares Exercise
Prices Outstanding Life Price Exercisable Price
----------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------
Cdn USD Cdn USD
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$ 0.70 - $ 4.87 391,697 2.76 years $ 2.25 $ 1.46 324,172 $ 1.84 $ 1.20
$ 5.75 - $ 9.90 1,371,731 4.41 years 7.84 5.10 650,721 7.60 4.94
$10.55 - $14.75 123 2.50 years 14.75 9.59 82 14.75 9.59
$16.10 - $16.10 333 2.42 years 16.10 10.47 222 16.10 10.47
=================================================================================================================
$ 0.70 - $16.10 1,763,884 4.04 years $ 6.60 $ 4.29 975,197 $ 5.69 $ 3.70
</TABLE>
F-13
<PAGE> 21
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998, 1997 AND 1996
(EXPRESSED IN THOUSANDS OF UNITED STATES DOLLARS EXCEPT SHARE AMOUNTS AND
NUMBERS OF SHARES) PREPARED IN ACCORDANCE WITH UNITED STATES GENERALLY ACCEPTED
ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES.
6. SHARE CAPITAL, CONTINUED
The options outstanding at December 31, 1998 expire between April 4, 1999 and
June 10, 2008.
The Company adopted only the disclosure provisions of Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards No. 123 ("FAS 123"), Accounting for Stock Based
Compensation, to account for grants under the Company's existing stock based
compensation plans. All options are issued with an exercise price equal to the
market value of the stock on the date of grant. Accordingly, no compensation
cost has been recognized for the stock option plan. Had compensation cost for
the Company's stock option plan been determined based on the fair value at the
grant date for awards under those plans consistent with the measurement
provision so FAS 123, the Company's net earnings (loss) and earnings (loss) per
share would have been adjusted as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEARS ENDED
DECEMBER 31,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net earnings (loss)
- as reported $ (2,908) $ 1,005 $ 1,578
Net earnings (loss)
- pro forma (3,848) 86 1,003
Basic earnings (loss)
per share - as reported (0.29) 0.11 0.17
Basic earnings (loss)
per share - pro forma (0.39) 0.01 0.11
Diluted earnings (loss)
per share - as reported (0.29) 0.10 0.16
Diluted earnings (loss)
per share - pro forma (0.39) 0.01 0.10
</TABLE>
Pro forma amounts reflect options granted after 1994 and may not be
representative of amounts in future years.
The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of the grant using
the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following assumptions:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEARS ENDED
DECEMBER 31,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Expected dividend yield 0% 0% 0%
Expected stock price
volatility 82% 27% 45%
Risk-free interest rate 5.5% 7.5% 8%
Expected life of options 4.7 years 4.5 years 4.5 years
</TABLE>
The Black-Scholes option valuation model was developed for use in estimating the
fair value of traded options which have no vesting restrictions and are fully
transferable. In addition, option valuation models require the input of highly
subjective assumptions including the expected stock price volatility. Because
the Company's employee stock options have characteristics significantly
different from those of traded options, and because changes in the 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.
(b) WARRANTS
As part of the consideration on the purchase at March 17, 1998 of the net assets
of Alex Computer Systems Inc., the Company issued warrants to purchase 110,375
common shares of the Company at Cdn $9.06 (USD $5.89). The warrants expire on
April 30, 2000. The fair value of the warrants was estimated to be Cdn $1.81
(USD $1.27) per warrant, using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model.
7. INCOME TAXES
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before provision of income taxes
consisted of:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEARS ENDED
DECEMBER 31,
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Canadian $(1,796) $2,462 $ 2,958
Foreign (1,901) 612 (785)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$(3,697) $3,074 $ 2,173
===============================================================================
</TABLE>
The provision for income taxes consisted of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEARS ENDED
DECEMBER 31,
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Current
Canadian $ -- $ -- $ --
Foreign 88 -- --
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total current 88 -- --
Deferred
Canadian (444) 1,115 843
Foreign (433) 419 (119)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total deferred (877) 1,534 724
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income tax provision $(789) $1,534 $ 724
================================================================================
</TABLE>
Income tax expense varies from the amounts that would be computed by applying
the Canadian federal and provincial income tax rate of 45.6% for each of the
periods presented to earnings before income taxes and discontinued operations as
shown in the following table:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEARS ENDED
DECEMBER 31,
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Combined Canadian
federal and provincial
income taxes at expected
rate $(1,686) $ 1,406 $ 990
Acquired in-process
research and development,
not tax deductible 300 398 --
Permanent and
other differences 111 (76) 4
Change in valuation
allowance 302 (194) (270)
Foreign tax losses effected
at lower rates 96 -- --
State taxes 88 -- --
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ (789) $ 1,534 $ 724
===============================================================================
</TABLE>
F-14
<PAGE> 22
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998, 1997 AND 1996
(EXPRESSED IN THOUSANDS OF UNITED STATES DOLLARS EXCEPT SHARE AMOUNTS AND
NUMBERS OF SHARES) PREPARED IN ACCORDANCE WITH UNITED STATES GENERALLY ACCEPTED
ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES.
7. INCOME TAXES, CONTINUED
As at December 31, 1998 the Company for Canadian income tax purposes, has
claimed investment tax credits of approximately $6,736 which are available to
reduce future years' income taxes payable. These investment tax credits expire
between 2000 and 2008. The potential tax benefits that may arise from the
utilization of $6,227 of these tax credits have not been recognized in these
financial statements, because their realization is not considered more likely
than not.
The Company has losses for UK income tax purposes of approximately $445 which
can be carried forward indefinitely to reduce future taxable income.
The tax effect of the temporary differences that give rise to deferred tax
assets and deferred tax liabilities are presented as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31,
1998 1997
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Deferred tax assets
Tax loss carry forwards $ 106 $ 30
Acquired technology and
in-process research
and development 867 --
Investment tax credits
recoverable 213 229
Share issue costs 109 85
Other 50 25
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total gross deferred tax assets 1,345 369
less: valuation allowance (539) (237)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total deferred tax assets 806 132
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deferred tax liabilities
Research and development
expenses (551) (659)
Tax depreciation in excess
of accounting (504) (592)
Investment tax credits (97) (104)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total deferred tax liabilities (1,152) (1,355)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net deferred tax liabilities $ (346) $(1,223)
===============================================================================
</TABLE>
8. EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE
Basic earnings (loss) per share is based on the weighted average number of
common shares outstanding. When dilutive, stock options and warrants are
included as share equivalents using the Treasury Stock method, for purposes of
computing diluted earnings per share.
The following weighted average number of shares were used for the computation of
earnings (loss) per share:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEARS ENDED
DECEMBER 31,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Weighted average
shares used in
computation of
basic earnings
per share 9,860,218 9,234,926 9,194,558
Weighted average
shares from
assumed conversion
of dilutive
options -- 372,994 587,733
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Weighted average shares
used in computation
of diluted earnings
per share 9,860,218 9,607,920 9,782,291
================================================================================
</TABLE>
9. COMMITMENTS
The Company has entered into various operating lease agreements with remaining
terms of up to five years, for office premises and equipment. As at December 31,
1998, the minimum lease payments in each of the next five years are
approximately as follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
1999 $ 640
2000 742
2001 742
2002 712
2003 712
- -----------------------------------------------
$ 3,548
===============================================
</TABLE>
10. SEGMENTED INFORMATION
In the opinion of management, the Company operates in the digital signal
processing systems industry, and all sales of its products and services are made
in this segment.
Management of the Company makes decisions about allocating resources based on
the one operating segment. Substantially all assets and operations are in
Canada. A summary of sales by region and by major customers is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEARS ENDED
DECEMBER 31,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
By Region
United States $21,821 $22,284 $15,690
Canada and other 4,179 3,923 4,373
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Sales $26,000 $26,207 $20,063
By Major Customer
Customer A $ 6,251 $ 6,583 $ 6,284
Customer B -- 4,843 527
Customer C 2,098 1,827 --
================================================================================
</TABLE>
11. DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
The Company adopted a plan during 1997 to discontinue the operation of its
desktop Computer Telephony board business ("CTI"). The CTI division is in the
business of developing boards which integrate telephone, fax, and modem
functions into computers and selling them to OEMs and end users. The Company
ceased operations in this business as of December 31, 1997. Accordingly, the
results of operations have been disclosed separately from those of continuing
operations for the years presented. The financial position of these discontinued
operations was consolidated in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles.
F-15
<PAGE> 23
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998, 1997 AND 1996
(EXPRESSED IN THOUSANDS OF UNITED STATES DOLLARS EXCEPT SHARE AMOUNTS AND
NUMBERS OF SHARES) PREPARED IN ACCORDANCE WITH UNITED STATES GENERALLY ACCEPTED
ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES.
11. DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS, CONTINUED
The operating results of this business segment were as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEARS ENDED
DECEMBER 31,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Revenue $ -- $ 517 $7,008
Gross margin -- 191 1,472
Expenses -- 1,066 1,279
Provision for taxes -- (340) 64
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Earnings (loss) from
discontinued operations $ -- $ (535) $ 129
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
The net assets of discontinued operations are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Current assets $ -- $361
Current liabilities -- --
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ -- $361
================================================================================
</TABLE>
12. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
a) FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Carrying amounts of certain of the Company's financial instruments, including
cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, bank indebtedness, accounts
payable and accrued liabilities approximate fair value due to their short
maturities. Based on borrowing rates currently available to the Company for
loans with similar terms, the carrying value of its long-term debt approximates
fair value.
b) FOREIGN EXCHANGE RISK MANAGEMENT
The Company utilizes future exchange contracts to manage its exposure to
fluctuations in foreign exchange rates which typically expire within three
months. These instruments are used for purposes other than trading and are
employed in connection with an underlying asset or liability. At December 31,
1998, the Company had futures exchange contracts with a notional principal of
$1,061 (December 31, 1997 - $1,020) maturing March 16, 1999. At December 31,
1998 and December 31, 1997, deferred gain and losses on future exchange
contracts were not material to the consolidated financial statements. The
counterparties to these contracts are major commercial financial institutions.
Management believes that losses related to credit risk are remote.
The fair values of future exchange contracts are evaluated by obtaining quotes
from brokers. At December 31, 1998 and December 31, 1997 there were no carrying
amounts related to future exchange contracts on the consolidated balance sheets.
Future exchange contracts to sell $1,061 had an estimated fair value of $1,051
at December 31, 1998 compared to future exchange contracts to sell $1,020 with
an estimated fair value of $980 at December 31, 1997.
c) CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK
Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of
credit risk are primarily accounts receivable. Credit risk in receivables is
limited to original equipment manufacturers and to dealers and distributors of
hardware and software products. The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations
of its customers' financial condition and requires letters of credit or other
guarantees whenever deemed necessary.
A substantial amount of the Company's revenues have been recognized in
currencies other than the Canadian dollar, principally the United States dollar.
Fluctuations in the exchange rates between these currencies and the Canadian
dollar could have a material effect on the Company's business, financial
condition and results of operations. The Company attempts to mitigate some of
this risk by denominating many of its payment obligations in United States
dollars, and, to a lesser extent, through the use of future exchange contracts.
13. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEARS ENDED
DECEMBER 31,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Cash paid for
Interest paid $ 149 $ 3 $3
Income taxes paid 15 -- --
Foreign exchange gains 287 323 5
Non-cash financing activities
Issue of shares for acquisition
of the net assets of
Alex Computer Systems,
net of share issue expenses 4,787 -- --
Issue of warrants for
acquisition of the net
assets of Alex
Computer Systems 140 -- --
Issue of shares for
acquisition of 3L Limited,
net of share issue expenses -- 934 --
</TABLE>
14. UNCERTAINTY DUE TO THE YEAR 2000
The Year 2000 Issues arises because many computerized systems use two digits
rather than four to identify a year. Date-sensitive systems may recognize the
year 2000 as 1900 or some other date, resulting in errors when information using
year 2000 dates is processed. In addition, similar problems may arise in some
systems which use certain dates in 1999 to represent something other than a
date. The effects of the Year 2000 Issue may be experienced before, on, or after
January 1, 2000, and, if not addressed, the impact on operations and financial
reporting may range from minor errors to significant systems failure which could
affect an entity's ability to conduct normal business operations. It is not
possible to be certain that all aspects of the Year 2000 Issue affecting the
entity, including those related to the efforts of customers, suppliers, or other
third parties, will be fully resolved.
F-16
<PAGE> 24
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Dr. Kenneth A. Spencer
Chair of the Board
Corporate Director
Barry Jinks
President & CEO
Spectrum Signal Processing Inc.
John E. Brennan
President
Activated Communications Inc.
Andrew Harries
Vice President, Marketing
Sierra Wireless Inc.
Charles C. Johnston
President & Director
J&C Resources Inc.
Pascal Spothelfer
Senior VP, Strategic Development
Teekay Shipping (Canada) Ltd.
Samuel Znaimer
Vice President
Ventures West Technologies Inc.
CORPORATE OFFICERS
Barry Jinks
President & CEO
David Hobbs
Vice President, Engineering
Doug Johnson
Vice President, Logistics
Brian Lowe
Vice President, Sales
Martin McConnell
Vice President, Finance
CFO & Secretary
Ron Wages
Vice President, Marketing
HEAD OFFICE & INVESTOR RELATIONS
8525 Baxter Place
100 Production Court
Burnaby, BC, Canada
V5A 4V7
Tel: 604-421-5422
Fax: 604-421-1764
NEW HEAD OFFICE LOCATION
as of July 2, 1999
One Spectrum Court
#200 - 2700 Production Way
Burnaby, BC, Canada
V5A 4X1
Tel: 604-421-5422
Fax: 604-421-1764
TRANSFER AGENT & REGISTRAR
Montreal Trust Company of Canada
510 Burrard Street
Vancouver, BC V6C 3B9
AUDITORS
KPMG
Suite 400 - North Tower
5811 Cooney Road
Richmond, BC V6X 3M1
BANKERS
Bank of Montreal
First Bank Tower
595 Burrard Street
Vancouver, BC V7X 1L5
GENERAL LEGAL COUNSEL
& REGISTERED OFFICE
Clark Wilson
800 - 885 West Georgia Street
Vancouver, BC V6C 3H1
SHARES LISTED
NASDAQ - SSPI
Toronto Stock Exchange - SSY
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The annual general meeting of shareholders will be at 12:00 pm, Tuesday, June
22nd, 1999 at:
The Waterfront Centre Hotel
900 Canada Place Way
Vancouver, BC B6C 3L5
<PAGE> 25
BRANCH OFFICES
Western USA
Northern California
1250 Aviation Avenue
Suite #250W
San Jose, CA 95110
Tel: 408-918-6430
Eastern USA
Ithaca, NY Office
Axiohm Center
950 Danby Rd, # 200
Ithaca, NY 14850
Tel: 607- 277-0678
Western USA
Southern California
17451 Bastanchury Road
Suite 204
Yorba Linda, CA 92886
Tel: 714-577-6950
Europe
UK/Europe Sales Office
St. Stephen's House
Arthur Road
Windsor SL4 1RY
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 -0- 1753 841 988
Central USA
99 Trophy Club Drive
Trophy Club, TX 76262
Tel: 817- 430-5840
Europe
Spectrum / 3L Limited
86/92 Causewayside
Edinburgh EH9 1PY
Scotland
Tel: +44-131 466 8080
Eastern USA
8201 Corporate Drive,
Suite 1140
Landover, MD 20785
Tel: 301-459-8888
SPECTRUM SIGNAL PROCESSING INC.
WORLDWIDE HEADQUARTERS
ONE SPECTRUM COURT
#200 - 2700 PRODUCTION WAY
BURNABY, BC V5A 4X1
www.spectrumsignal.com
[LOGO] PRINTED IN CANADA
