Playmates Interactive Entertainment Limited
Transcription
Playmates Interactive Entertainment Limited
Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Contents Pages CORPORATE INFORMATION 2 CHAIRMAN’S STATEMENT 3 BUSINESS REVIEW AND PROSPECTS REPORT OF THE DIRECTORS 4-7 8-16 AUDITORS’ REPORT 17 CONSOLIDATED PROFIT AND LOSS ACCOUNT 18 CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET 19 BALANCE SHEET 20 CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT 21 STATEMENT OF RECOGNISED GAINS AND LOSSES 22 NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS COMPARATIVE TABLE OF RESULTS, ASSETS AND LIABILITIES NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 23-46 47 48-50 The following trademarks and copyrights are used in the context of this report:– The Simpsons TM is a trademark of Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. WaterBabies® is a registered trademark of Lauer Toys Incorporated. Chicken Run TM is a trademark of DreamWorks LLC. Little Tikes® and Talking Little TTM are registered trademark and trademark of the Little Tikes Company. Tomb RaiderTM and Lara CroftTM are trademarks of Core and Eidos. Amazing AllyTM, Amazing AmyTM, Amazing BabiesTM, Talking Potty DottyTM, Shop ’n Bop BabyTM, Sweet e.BabyTM, Playmates Electronix TM, ePalsTM, OOgliesTM, Real Punch BoxingTM, Real Paint BallTM, Real Bass Boat Fishing TM, Jumpin’ Jam TM and Doc DreadTM are trademarks of Playmates Toys Inc. Tech Deck TM & Tech Deck Pee WeesTM are trademarks of X-Concepts, LLC. Wallace & Gromit is a trademark of Wallace & Gromit Limited. PlayStation® is a registered trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Monster Rancher© 2000 Techmo, CBC, Dentsu, TMS-K. How The Grinch Stole Christmas© 2000 Universal Studios. 1 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Corporate Information Directors Auditors Executive Directors: Chan Chun Hoo, Thomas (Chairman) Ip Shu Wing, Charles (Vice Chairman) To Shu Sing, Sidney Cheng Bing Kin, Alain PricewaterhouseCoopers Certified Public Accountants, Hong Kong Non-Executive Directors: Lee Peng Fei, Allen Lo Kai Yiu, Anthony Tsim Tak Lung, Dominic Yu Hon To, David Principal Bankers The Chase Manhattan Bank The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited Solicitors Bermuda: Conyers Dill & Pearman Tracy Fong Hong Kong: Deacons Graham & James Richards Butler Registered Office Share Registrars and Transfer Office Clarendon House Church Street Hamilton HM11 Bermuda Bermuda: The Bank of Bermuda Limited 6 Front Street Hamilton HM11 Bermuda Secretary Principal Office 21/F 100 Canton Road Tsimshatsui Kowloon, Hong Kong 2 Hong Kong: Abacus Share Registrars Limited 2401 Prince’s Building Central Hong Kong Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Chairman’s Statement I am pleased to report that during the year ended 31 December 1999, the Group achieved a turnover of HK$1,081,836,000, a 22% increase compared to HK$883,995,000 for the year ended 31 December 1998. Profit attributable to the shareholders was HK$5,994,000, compared to a loss of HK$17,773,000 in 1998. The board recommends a final dividend of 6 cents per share and a special dividend of 25 cents per share for the year 1999 (interim and final dividends of 6 cents per share for the year 1998). The Group’s positive results in 1999 were derived from a balanced portfolio of successful products made up of licensed multimedia entertainment based toys and many other original, fun and feature-filled playthings. Those successful products reaffirmed the Group’s industry leadership position in the application of interactive technology to enhance the play values of traditional toys as well as those of the new generation. In 1999, the Group established two new business units: Re:PLAY! and NeXT Electronix. Each of the new business units will develop its own distinct brand identity and specializes in different product-market segments. They will share in the established strength of the Group in the creation and delivery of toy products of great value to the global consumers. Both new business units have launched their inaugural products for year 2000 during major international toy fairs earlier this year. During the year, the Group had teamed up with two strong independent toy marketing companies: Vivid Imaginations in the U.K. and Rainbow Fun in Canada. These strategic partners will further expand the distribution of Playmates products in Europe and in North America. They will also bring to Playmates new sources of products and other opportunities for mutual benefit. The Group will continue to seek out and take advantage of synergetic investment opportunities. The strategic focus of new business development will be on interactive entertainment products, in particular, multimedia technology based merchandise and internet applications. It is expected that additional business units will be established to exploit new business ventures. To better reflect the Group’s strategic business direction, the name of the Company will be changed to Playmates Interactive Entertainment Limited , subject to the approval of the shareholders in the next Annual General Meeting. The achievement and the future of the Group are founded on the support of our customers, licensors, suppliers and other business partners, and on the dedication and hard work of my staff and management colleagues. I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks to all of them. Chan Chun Hoo, Thomas Chairman Hong Kong, 23 March 2000 3 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Business Review and Prospects The top-selling large doll in the US for the 1999 holiday season was Playmates’ Amazing Ally which was selected by the Toys ‘R’ Us on-line shopping site toysrus.com as a “Hotter than Hot Pick” for that season. Ally will be back in year 2000; equipped with more innovative softwares and accessories to explore more interactive adventures with little girls around the world. OOglies , the funky and colorful aliens, charmed their way into the hearts of a great number of children all over the world. Together with their mini-sized brothers, the family of OOglies will continue to be popular in year 2000. The series of interactive handheld virtual sports electronic games, in particular the Real Hunting games, were strong performers in the category. A number of traditional and classical products offered by the Group in 1999 also performed well. Talking Potty Dotty, Shop ‘n Bop Baby and Waterbabies were all best sellers in the large doll category at various times of the year. Playmates’ application of its renowned expertise in crafting collectible quality action figures to interpret the adventures of Lara Croft , as depicted in the episodes of the popular PlayStation and PC game Tomb Raider , had created a strong worldwide demand by gaming fans and collectors alike. For year 2000 and beyond, the Group will further exploit its proven expertise in the application of technology to a diversified range of product categories. Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Business Review and Prospects Multimedia Entertainment – The Group will continue to actively secure licenses from partners in the entertainment industry. A number of major new entertainment based product lines are introduced for year 2000. Coming in summer 2000 is a line of hilarious toys and character collectibles inspired by the animated motion picture “Chicken Run” featuring the vocal talents of Mel Gibson and Miranda Richardson from DreamWorks SKG and Aardman Studios, the Academy Award-winning creators of “Wallace and Gromit” . Playmates has acquired the master toy license from Universal Studios for the highly anticipated holiday 2000 movie, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”, with Jim Carrey playing Grinch, the leading character from the beloved children’s book by Dr. Seuss. A partnership between Playmates and 20th Century Fox leads to the creation of a line of dynamic interactive products that bring to life “The Simpsons” and other characters from the world of Springfield. The Simpsons, currently in its 11th anniversary, is the longest running sitcom on the air in the USA and the most successful animated series of all time. Playmates is also the master toy licensee for the hit video game and cartoon show “Monster Rancher” . Hundreds of different characters from the action packed world of the Monster Rancher have been released to satisfy the market craze for collecting pocket-sized monsters. Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Business Review and Prospects Promotional Dolls – Following the success of the top-selling dolls Amazing Amy (in 1998) and Amazing Ally (in 1999), Playmates introduces the newest members of the Amazing family – Amazing Babies. Amazing Babies combine cutting-edge technology with the real needs and responses of a baby to create a true-to-life mommy experience for little girls. Realistic animatronics allow Amazing Babies to move their heads just like a real baby. Each Amazing Baby can hear, and will turn her head in recognition of the voice of her “mommy”. A proprietary Smart Response System allows Amazing Babies to expand their vocabulary over time and recognize the play pieces they are holding. Another new member of the Amazing family is the interactive Talking Little T . This playful friend for pre-school aged little boys is the result of a licensing partnership with Little Tikes, the maker of popular outdoor toys and equipment. Like his cousin Ally, Little T can speak hundreds of different phrases, and encourages discovery and exploration by asking his buddy to participate in role-playing adventures. Other new dolls introduced for year 2000 include Sweet e.baby , the only doll that comes with a CD-ROM full of surprises. Girls can pop the CD-ROM into the computer for a printable birth announcement, baby journal, personalized “family tree”, interactive doctor’s clinic for all of the new mommy’s questions, and lots of fun e.venture stories. With more than 10 million dolls sold, the classic Waterbabies line promises more excitement with the introduction of new dolls with a variety of new looks and sizes for 2000. Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Business Review and Prospects Interactive Electronics – Playmates continues to expand its Playmates Electronix brand using the latest technology to deliver innovative, interactive toys and games for all ages. Hot new product introductions include e-Pals, which are animatronic characters delivering wacky actions and commentaries in reaction to tasks performed on computers. Additional phrases and activities are downloadable from e-Pal enabled websites for more interactive fun. Real Adventure 3D Audio Games feature authentic 3D surround sound effects to intensify the audio-visual experience of game play. Real Punch Boxing is a voice-command game that places the players in a virtual boxing ring. Motion sensors inside boxing gloves can tell when a player is swinging in the air and when contact is made. Real Paint Ball Challenge delivers all of the excitement without the mess of the classic “capture the flag” adventure. Search the field for enemy movement, line up the crosshairs, pull the trigger, and each paintball “hit” shows up in color enhanced graphics. Real Bass Boat Fishing captures the excitement of the sport through an interactive tilt sensor, vibrating boat motor, realistic tournament sounds, and fish fighting feel. Jumpin’ Jam is an electronic interactive ball that players jump on – repeatedly – to experience a variety of wacky games. It comes with outrageous sound effects and two cool color patterns for maximum excitement. Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Report of the Directors The directors present herewith their report and the accounts for the year ended 31 December 1999. ACCOUNTS The results of the Company and its subsidiaries (the “Group”) for the year are set out in the consolidated profit and loss account on page 18. The states of affairs of the Group and of the Company as at 31 December 1999 are set out in the balance sheets on pages 19 and 20 respectively. The cash flows of the Group for the year are set out in the statement on page 21. PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES AND ANALYSIS OF OPERATIONS The Company continued to be an investment holding company. The principal activities of its subsidiaries continued to be the design, development, marketing and distribution of toys. A geographical analysis of the Group’s turnover is as follows:– North America Europe Far East Others 1999 HK$’000 1998 HK$’000 867,807 208,723 4,510 796 704,381 163,559 9,856 6,199 1,081,836 883,995 An analysis of turnover and contribution to operating results, by business segment is as follows:– Turnover 1998 1999 HK$’000 HK$’000 Toys Video game software Others 8 Contribution to profit/(loss) from ordinary activities 1999 1998 HK$’000 HK$’000 1,081,836 – – 860,828 23,167 – 18,468 – – (28,872) 2,112 (11,825) 1,081,836 883,995 18,468 (38,585) Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Report of the Directors MAJOR CUSTOMERS AND SUPPLIERS The percentages of purchases and sales attributable to the Group’s largest suppliers and customers are as follows:– Purchases – the largest supplier – five largest suppliers combined Sales – the largest customer – five largest customers combined 1999 % 1998 % 23 65 34 76 23 64 25 60 No directors or their associates and no shareholders (who to the knowledge of the directors own more than 5% of the Company’s share capital) were interested at any time in the year in the above suppliers or customers. DIVIDENDS The directors have declared or now recommend the following dividends in respect of the year ended 31 December 1999:– 1999 HK$’000 1998 HK$’000 – 19,832 39,912 19,832 166,302 – 206,214 39,664 Interim – HK$ nil (1998: HK$0.03) per share Proposed final – HK$0.06 (1998 : HK$0.03) per share Proposed special – HK$0.25 (1998 : nil) per share TAXATION Details of the assessment for additional Hong Kong profits tax on the Group’s offshore income claims are set out in note 6(a)(i) on page 30. RESERVES The movements in the reserves of the Group and the Company are shown in note 18 on pages 41 to 43. DONATIONS The donations made by the Group during the year amounted to HK$666,000 (1998: HK$875,000). 9 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Report of the Directors INFORMATION ON SUBSIDIARIES Details of the principal subsidiaries are set out in note 12 on pages 35 and 36. FIXED ASSETS The movements in fixed assets of the Group are set out in note 11 on page 34. SHARE CAPITAL No new shares were issued during 1999. Details of the share options granted by the Company during the year and options outstanding at 31 December 1999 are set out in note 17 on page 40. PURCHASE, SALE OR REDEMPTION OF THE COMPANY’S LISTED SECURITIES During the year, neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries has purchased, sold or redeemed any of the Company’s share capital. ANALYSIS OF BANK LOANS, OVERDRAFTS AND OTHER BORROWINGS The particulars of the Group’s utilised banking facilities are set out in note 21 on page 45. LIQUIDITY AND FINANCIAL RESOURCES The Group’s business is seasonal in nature. Sales in the second half-year are generally significantly higher than the first half. Accordingly, a disproportionately high balance of receivables is generated during the selling seasons in the fourth quarter of the year. Consistent with trade practices, a significant portion of the sales is not collected until the final weeks of the fourth quarter and the first quarter of the subsequent year, resulting in a seasonal demand for working capital for the peak selling seasons. As at 31 December 1999, trade receivables were HK$493,522,000 (1998: HK$245,986,000) and inventories were at a seasonal low level of HK$5,669,000 or 0.5 percent of turnover (1998: HK$68,291,000 or 7.7 percent of turnover). The ratio of current assets to current liabilities was 1.09 at 31 December 1999 compared to 1.50 at 31 December 1998. As at 31 December 1999, the Group’s cash and bank balances were HK$336,251,000, compared to HK$249,702,000 at 31 December 1998. The strong cash position together with the available bank facilities are sufficient to provide adequate liquidity and capital resources for the Group’s ongoing operating needs. 10 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Report of the Directors YEAR 2000 COMPUTER ISSUE The Year 2000 computer issue was thoroughly discussed in the Group’s 1998 Annual Report, outlining our understanding of and approach to addressing the issue. The Group has successfully passed the millennium rollover. All systems critical to the operating of the business are functioning satisfactorily. The Group has incurred, in aggregate, approximately HK$24.6 million in enhancing its operating facilities while preparing itself for the arrival of the millennium. These costs, which comprised the acquisitions of new computer hardware and software, are treated as capital expenditure and are being amortised over the estimated useful lives of three to five years. The Group has no further material commitment relating to this issue. EMPLOYEES As of 31 December 1999, the Group had a total of 112 employees world-wide. This compares to 150 employees as of 31 December 1998. The reduction in the number of employees reflects the Group’s business restructuring in Canada and the United Kingdom. The Group remunerates its employees largely based on industry practice, including contributory provident funds, insurance and medical benefits. The Group has also adopted a discretionary bonus programme for all management and staff and a share option plan for its employees with awards under both programmes determined annually based upon the performance of the Group and the individual employee. DIRECTORS The directors who held office during the year and up to the date of this report were:– Mr. Mr. Mr. Mr. Mr. Mr. Mr. Mr. Ms. Chan Chun Hoo, Thomas Chairman Ip Shu Wing, Charles Vice Chairman To Shu Sing, Sidney Cheng Bing Kin, Alain Lee Peng Fei, Allen * Lo Kai Yiu, Anthony * Tsim Tak Lung, Dominic * Yu Hon To, David * Li, Irene Suk Kay (appointed on 30 August 1999) (appointed on 30 August 1999) (resigned on 12 July 1999) * Non-executive directors Pursuant to Bye-law 86(2) of the Company’s Bye-laws, Mr. Ip Shu Wing, Charles and Mr. Cheng Bing Kin, Alain retire and offer themselves for re-election. Pursuant to Bye-law 87(1) of the Company’s Bye-laws, Mr. Lee Peng Fei, Allen retires by rotation and offers himself for reelection. 11 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Report of the Directors DIRECTORS AND SENIOR MANAGEMENT Biographical details of directors and senior management are shown below:– Executive directors Chan Chun Hoo, Thomas Chairman Mr. Chan, aged 49, joined the Group in 1967. In 1970 he became responsible for sales and was instrumental in developing the Group’s global sales and marketing network. Since 1979, he has been actively involved in all aspects of the Group’s operations. His decision to take on the promotional toy business in 1985 led to the evolution of the Group from a manufacturing entity into a pure toy development and marketing group. The Group’s high level of productivity is attributable to his guiding management principles of creativity, flexibility and simplicity. Mr. Chan was appointed Chairman on 15 October 1997. Ip Shu Wing, Charles Vice Chairman Mr. Ip, aged 49, previously joined the Group in 1986 during a period of rapid growth. He was involved in the initial development of the promotional toy business of the Group and participated in the transformation of the Group from a manufacturing-based to a marketing-based business group. He left Playmates soon after the launch of the Ninja Turtles in 1988. Mr. Ip has close to thirty years experience in business management, and has held a number of key management positions in various multinational corporations. He re-joined the Group and was appointed as Vice Chairman on 1 October 1999. To Shu Sing, Sidney Executive Director Mr. To, aged 42, joined the Group in 1986. Mr. To holds an Executive Master of Business Administration degree from Simon Fraser University, British Columbia, Canada. Prior to joining the Group, he had worked for a number of multinational trading and manufacturing companies for nine years. Cheng Bing Kin, Alain Executive Director Mr. Cheng, aged 37, joined the Group in 1999. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Hong Kong and a bachelor’s degree in Laws from the London University. Mr. Cheng is a fellow member of The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants and an associate member of the Hong Kong Society of Accountants. In 1998, he obtained a master degree in Chinese and Comparative Laws from the City University of Hong Kong. Prior to joining the Group, he had worked for two international accounting firms with extensive experience in statutory auditing and corporate finance. He subsequently joined the legal profession and had worked for two reputable law firms. Mr. Cheng was admitted as a solicitor of the High Court of Hong Kong and the Supreme Court of England and Wales. During his practice in the legal profession, he specialized in the commercial and corporate finance areas. 12 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Report of the Directors Non-executive directors Lee Peng Fei, Allen Mr. Lee, aged 60, was appointed a director in November 1993. He is currently a member of the Commission on Strategic Development, Hong Kong SAR and a deputy of HKSAR, the 9th National People’s Congress, PRC. He has taken on an active role in public service. Lo Kai Yiu, Anthony Mr. Lo, aged 51, is an investment banker and a director of a number of public and private companies in Hong Kong and overseas. Mr. Lo was appointed a director in November 1993. Tsim Tak Lung, Dominic Mr. Tsim, aged 53, is a consultant on corporate communication and strategic planning. He is on the boards of several public and private companies in Hong Kong and North America. He was appointed a director in January 1997. Yu Hon To, David Mr. Yu, aged 52, was appointed as a director of the Company in April 1995. He is a fellow of The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales and an associate member of the Hong Kong Society of Accountants. He was a partner of an international accounting firm with extensive experience in corporate finance. Mr. Yu is a founder and director of Management Capital Limited, which specializes in direct investment and financial advisory activities and also on the board of a number of listed companies and private companies in Hong Kong. Senior management Ron K. Welch President – Playmates Toys Inc. Mr. Welch, aged 52, joined the Group in 1987 and brought with him 28 years of toy management experience in the U.S. toy industry. Chan Wai Kan, George Chief Financial Officer Mr. Chan, aged 42, joined the Group in 1994. He is a member of The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales and of the Hong Kong Society of Accountants. Prior to joining the Group, he had worked for two of the Big-5 international accounting firms where he gained a wide experience in auditing, taxation and corporate finance. He holds a Master of Business Administration degree from The Chinese University of Hong Kong. 13 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Report of the Directors SERVICE CONTRACTS There is no service contract, which is not determinable by the Company within one year without payment of compensation (other than statutory compensation), in respect of any director proposed for re-election at the forthcoming annual general meeting. DIRECTORS’ INTERESTS IN CONTRACTS No contracts of significance in relation to the Company’s business to which the Company or its subsidiaries was a party, and in which any director had a material interest, subsisted at the end of the year or at any time during the year. DIRECTORS’ AND CHIEF EXECUTIVES’ BENEFITS FROM RIGHTS TO ACQUIRE SHARES OR DEBENTURES Details of share options granted to the directors and chief executives, pursuant to the Company’s Share Option Plan, are as follows:– Name of Director Date of Grant Exercise Price No. of Options HK$ Mr. Ip Shu Wing, Charles 20 October 1999 0.478 3,000,000 Mr. To Shu Sing, Sidney 26 August 1998 27 May 1999 20 October 1999 0.586 0.558 0.478 800,000 600,000 750,000 Mr. Cheng Bing Kin, Alain 27 May 1999 20 October 1999 0.558 0.478 500,000 500,000 The options are exercisable in stages in accordance with the terms of the Share Option Plan within ten years from the date of granting. No options were exercised and 800,000 options were cancelled during the year. Apart from the aforesaid, at no time during the year was the Company or any of its subsidiaries a party to any arrangements to enable the directors and chief executives of the Company to acquire benefits by means of the acquisition of shares in, or debentures of, the Company or any other body corporate. 14 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Report of the Directors DIRECTORS’ AND CHIEF EXECUTIVES’ INTERESTS IN SHARES OF THE COMPANY As at 31 December 1999, the interests of directors and chief executives of the Company in the shares of the Company as recorded in the register maintained under Section 29 of the Securities (Disclosure of Interests) Ordinance ("SDI Ordinance") and other interests of directors in the Company were as follows:– Number of shares held Name Mr. Mr. Mr. Mr. Mr. Mr. Chan Chun Hoo, Thomas Yu Hon To, David To Shu Sing, Sidney Lee Peng Fei, Allen Lo Kai Yiu, Anthony Tsim Tak Lung, Dominic Personal interests Family interests Corporate interests Other interests – – 10,000 345,000 550,000 200,000 – – – – – 20,000 – Note (b) – – – – Note (a) – – – – – Note:– (a) 312,107,572 shares of the Company were beneficially owned by Chansam Investments Limited ("CIL"). 85.19 percent of the issued share capital of CIL is beneficially owned by a private company which is wholly owned by the trustees of a discretionary trust established for the benefit of Mr. Chan Chun Hoo, Thomas and his family; and (b) 3,500,000 shares of the Company were held by a private company in which Mr. Yu Hon To, David and a member of his family have a controlling interest. Apart from the above, none of the directors and chief executives (including their spouses and children under 18 years of age) had any beneficial interests or other interests in the shares of the Company. SUBSTANTIAL SHAREHOLDERS’ INTEREST IN THE SHARE CAPITAL OF THE COMPANY Other than the interests disclosed above in respect of directors and chief executives, the register of substantial shareholders maintained under Section 16(1) of the SDI Ordinance shows that the Company at 31 December 1999 had been notified by Mr. Chan Chun Wai and a company controlled by him that he was interested, in aggregate, in 123,079,201 shares of the Company. CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS The related party transactions entered by the Group during the year ended 31 December 1999, as disclosed in note 23 (a) to the accounts, also constitute connected transactions under the Listing Rules. Details of these transactions have been disclosed in the press announcements of the Company dated 5 March 1997 and 26 January 2000. PRE-EMPTIVE RIGHTS There is no provision for pre-emptive rights under the Company’s Bye-laws and there is no restriction against such rights under the laws of Bermuda. 15 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Report of the Directors AUDIT COMMITTEE Pursuant to the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited, an Audit Committee comprising Mr. Tsim Tak Lung, Dominic as Chairman, Mr. Lee Peng Fei, Allen and Mr. Lo Kai Yiu, Anthony as members was formed in May 1999. Its function is to assist the Board of Directors in providing an independent review of the effectiveness of the financial reporting process and internal control system of the Company. COMPLIANCE WITH THE CODE OF BEST PRACTICE OF THE LISTING RULES The directors believe that the Code of Best Practice has been complied with by the Company during the year ended 31 December 1999 except that non-executive directors are not appointed for a specific term as recommended under the Listing Rules Appendix 14 Guidelines. According to the bye-laws of the Company, non-executive directors of the Company will retire by rotation on average every three years and their appointments will be reviewed when they are due for re-election. In the opinion of the Company this meets the same objective as the Code of Best Practice. CHANGE OF NAME In order to better reflect and signify the strategic business direction of the Group, the directors propose that, subject to the approval by the shareholders of the Company and the Registrar of Companies in Bermuda, the name of the Company shall be changed to “Playmates Interactive Entertainment Limited”. The change of name will take effect after the resolution therefor is passed at the Annual General Meeting and approval of the Registrar of Companies in Bermuda is obtained. If the change of name takes effect, all existing certificates for the shares of the Company will continue to be good evidence of legal title to the shares of the Company, and it is not necessary for shareholders to exchange the existing certificates for new certificates to be issued by the Company bearing its new name. An announcement will be made by the Company when the proposed change of name has become effective. AUDITORS Our auditors, PricewaterhouseCoopers, being eligible, offer themselves for re-appointment, and a resolution to this effect will be proposed at the Annual General Meeting. On behalf of the Board Chan Chun Hoo, Thomas Chairman Hong Kong, 23 March 2000 16 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Auditors’ Report TO THE SHAREHOLDERS OF PLAYMATES TOYS HOLDINGS LIMITED (incorporated in Bermuda with limited liability) We have audited the accounts set out on pages 18 to 46 which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in Hong Kong. RESPECTIVE RESPONSIBILITIES OF DIRECTORS AND AUDITORS The Company’s directors are responsible for the preparation of accounts which give a true and fair view. In preparing accounts which give a true and fair view it is fundamental that appropriate accounting policies are selected and applied consistently. It is our responsibility to form an independent opinion, based on our audit, on those accounts and to report our opinion to you. BASIS OF OPINION We conducted our audit in accordance with Statements of Auditing Standards issued by the Hong Kong Society of Accountants. An audit includes examination, on a test basis, of evidence relevant to the amounts and disclosures in the accounts. It also includes an assessment of the significant estimates and judgments made by the directors in the preparation of the accounts, and of whether the accounting policies are appropriate to the circumstances of the Company and the Group, consistently applied and adequately disclosed. We planned and performed our audit so as to obtain all the information and explanations which we considered necessary in order to provide us with sufficient evidence to give reasonable assurance as to whether the accounts are free from material misstatement. In forming our opinion we also evaluated the overall adequacy of the presentation of information in the accounts. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion. OPINION In our opinion the accounts give a true and fair view, in all material respects, of the state of affairs of the Company and the Group as at 31 December 1999 and of the profit and cash flows of the Group for the year then ended and have been properly prepared in accordance with the disclosure requirements of the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance. PricewaterhouseCoopers Certified Public Accountants Hong Kong, 23 March 2000 17 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Consolidated Profit and Loss Account For the year ended 31 December 1999 1999 HK$’000 1998 HK$’000 139,592 (71,413) 1,081,836 (553,448) 883,995 (410,503) 68,179 528,388 473,492 (27,585) (37,524) (213,783) (290,811) (219,773) (284,990) 3 3,070 23,794 (31,271) 4 5 (1,878) 1,190 (14,552) 9,226 (18,042) 22,553 – – (11,825) Profit/(loss) from ordinary activities 2,382 18,468 (38,585) Share of profit of an associated company 2,727 21,134 8,056 Profit/(loss) before taxation 5,109 39,602 (30,529) (4,337) (33,610) 12,756 772 5,992 (17,773) – 2 – 772 5,994 (17,773) 50,732 393,173 438,785 895 6,939 11,825 52,399 406,106 432,837 Note 1999 US$’000 (Note 25) Turnover Cost of sales 2 Gross profit Operating expenses Marketing Selling, distribution and administration Operating profit/(loss) Non-operating income/(expenses) Interest expense and bank charges Other income, net of expenses Provision for diminution in value of investment securities Taxation (charge)/credit 6(a) Profit/(loss) after taxation Minority interests Profit/(loss) attributable to shareholders 7 Retained profits brought forward Transfer from reserves Total available for appropriation Dividends 8 26,608 206,214 39,664 Retained profits carried forward 18 25,791 199,892 393,173 US$ HK$ HK$ 0.12 cents 0.91 cents (2.69) cents Earnings/(loss) per share 9 The notes on pages 23 to 46 form an integral part of these accounts. Auditors’ report – page 17 18 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Consolidated Balance Sheet As at 31 December 1999 1999 HK$’000 1998 HK$’000 4,514 34,984 3,572 27,683 33,994 263,457 13 100 23,589 26,085 344,053 990 732 63,680 6,141 514 22 43,388 5,669 493,522 47,604 3,984 169 336,251 68,291 245,986 66,469 5,291 11,768 249,702 114,477 887,199 647,507 43,116 7,984 21,363 5,793 26,608 334,149 61,872 165,566 44,899 206,214 144,845 23,389 229,412 14,710 19,832 104,864 812,700 432,188 9,613 74,499 215,319 51,706 400,723 610,036 17 8,530 66,107 66,107 18(a) 43,176 334,616 539,415 51,706 400,723 605,522 – – 4,514 51,706 400,723 610,036 Note 1999 US$’000 (Note 25) Fixed assets Investment in an associated company Investment securities Deferred taxation 11 13 14(a) 6(b) Current assets Inventories Trade receivables Other receivables, deposits and prepayments Taxation recoverable Other investments Cash and bank balances 15, 21 16, 21 14(b) Current liabilities Notes payable to banks, repayable on demand Trade payables Other payables and accrued charges Taxation payable Proposed dividends Net current assets Financed by: Share capital Reserves Shareholders’ funds Non-current liabilities On behalf of the Board Chan Chun Hoo, Thomas Director Ip Shu Wing, Charles Director The notes on pages 23 to 46 form an integral part of these accounts. Auditors’ report – page 17 19 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Balance Sheet As at 31 December 1999 1999 HK$’000 1998 HK$’000 43,021 333,410 466,745 130 – 17,375 1,012 – 134,653 120 50,000 33,446 17,505 135,665 83,566 2,881 26,608 22,328 206,214 – 19,832 29,489 228,542 19,832 (11,984) (92,877) 63,734 31,037 240,533 530,479 17 8,530 66,107 66,107 18(b) 22,507 174,426 464,372 31,037 240,533 530,479 Note 1999 US$’000 (Note 25) Investment in subsidiaries 12 Current assets Accounts receivable and prepayments Dividends receivable from subsidiaries Cash and bank balances Current liabilities Other payables and accrued charges Proposed dividend Net current (liabilities)/assets Financed by: Share capital Reserves Shareholders’ funds On behalf of the Board Chan Chun Hoo, Thomas Director Ip Shu Wing, Charles Director The notes on pages 23 to 46 form an integral part of these accounts. Auditors’ report – page 17 20 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Consolidated Cash Flow Statement For the year ended 31 December 1999 1999 HK$’000 1998 HK$’000 (18,323) (142,007) 212,465 1,497 (1,134) 1,391 (2,559) 534 11,599 (8,786) 10,780 (19,832) 4,141 20,758 (14,149) 9,800 (59,496) 3,455 (271) (2,098) (39,632) (127) (15) 113 79 (985) (114) 880 611 (11,825) (5,891) 2,963 40,944 50 392 26,191 – – (25,703) (2,223) (2,962) 48 (17,232) (22,954) 369 (12,991) (4,870) 1,157 11,030 85,484 26,463 Net cash inflow/(outflow) from investing activities 5,893 45,667 (15,944) (Decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents (12,651) (98,046) 183,080 Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January 13,530 104,857 (75,603) (608) (4,709) (2,620) 271 2,102 104,857 Note 1999 US$’000 (Note 25) Net cash (outflow)/ inflow from operating activities 19(a) Returns on investments and servicing of finance Interest received Interest paid Dividends received from an associated company Dividends paid Dividends received from other investments Net cash outflow from returns on investments and servicing of finance Taxation Hong Kong profits tax paid Overseas tax paid Hong Kong profits tax refunded Overseas tax refunded Net tax refunded Investing activities Purchases of short term investments Purchases of fixed assets Moulds and tools Other fixed assets Proceeds from disposal of fixed assets Proceeds from disposal of investment and other securities Effect of foreign exchange rate changes Cash and cash equivalents at 31 December 19(b) The notes on pages 23 to 46 form an integral part of these accounts. Auditors’ report – page 17 21 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Statement of Recognised Gains and Losses For the year ended 31 December 1999 Note 1999 US$’000 1999 HK$’000 1998 HK$’000 (Note 25) Exchange loss arising on translation of accounts of foreign subsidiaries 18(a) (591) (4,579) (2,713) Profit / (loss) for the year 18(a) 772 5,994 (17,773) 181 1,415 (20,486) Total recognised gains and (losses) The notes on pages 23 to 46 form an integral part of these accounts. Auditors’ report – page 17 22 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notes to the Accounts 31 December 1999 1 PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES The principal accounting policies which have been adopted in the preparation of these accounts are set out below. (a) Basis of preparation The accounts have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in Hong Kong and comply with accounting standards issued by the Hong Kong Society of Accountants. The accounts are prepared under the historical cost convention as modified by the revaluation of investment securities. (b) Consolidation The group accounts comprise the consolidation of the accounts of the Company and all its subsidiaries made up to the end of the year. Internal transactions are eliminated on consolidation and all figures in the group accounts relate to external transactions only. A subsidiary is a company in which the Company, directly or indirectly, controls more than half the voting power or issued share capital or of whose board of directors it controls the composition. The investment in subsidiaries is recorded in the Company’s books at cost, being the fair value of the consideration given plus related acquisition costs, or, where appropriate, at directors’ estimate of the fair value of the net assets of subsidiaries contributed to the Company, less any provision required for permanent diminution in value. Discount arising on consolidation represents the excess of fair value of the net assets of subsidiaries acquired over the purchase consideration. Goodwill arising on consolidation represents the excess of the purchase consideration over the fair value of the net assets of subsidiaries acquired. Any goodwill or discount arising on consolidation is charged or credited, as appropriate, directly to reserves. The turnover and results of subsidiaries are included in the group accounts from the date of their acquisition. In the case of disposals, turnover and results are included up to the date of disposal. Minority interests represent the interests of outside shareholders in the operating results and net assets of subsidiaries. (c) Associated companies Associated companies are companies other than subsidiaries in which the Group effectively holds a long term equity investment and over whose management it is able to exercise significant influence. Associated companies are accounted for by the Group using the equity method of accounting. Auditors’ report – page 17 23 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notes to the Accounts 31 December 1999 1 PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D) (d) Revenue recognition Revenue from the sale of toys and video games is recognized on the transfer of risks and rewards of ownership, which generally coincides with the time of shipment. Interest income is recognized on a time proportion basis, taking into account the principal amounts outstanding and the interest rates applicable. Dividend income is recognized when it is received except dividends from subsidiaries which are recognized when determined by the holding company as the holding company’s right to receive payment is established by virtue of its control over the subsidiary. (e) Deferred taxation Deferred taxation is accounted for at the current tax rate in respect of timing differences between profit as computed for taxation purposes and profit as stated in the accounts to the extent that a liability or an asset is expected to be payable or recoverable in the foreseeable future. (f) Advertising and marketing expenses, advanced royalties and development costs Advertising and marketing expenses are written off as incurred, except for the production costs of commercials and related programming costs which are deferred and written off in the year the commercial is first aired. Advanced royalties represent prepayments made to licensors of intellectual properties under licensing agreements. All prepayments with respect to these agreements are recoupable against future royalties. Advanced royalties are amortized at the contractual royalty rate based on actual product sales. Management evaluates the future realization of advanced royalties periodically and charges to expense any amounts that management deems unlikely to be recoupable at the contractual royalty rate through product sales. All advanced royalties are amortized within the term of the license agreement and are written off upon the abandonment of the product or upon the determination that there is significant doubt as to the success of the product. Expenses relating to product development are deferred and amortized on a straight line basis over the estimated useful life of the products. Substantially all product development costs are amortized within one year of initial product shipment. On an ongoing basis, management reviews the useful lives and carrying value of deferred product development costs based on the projected sales and operating results of the related products. If the facts and circumstances suggest a change in useful lives or an impairment in the carrying value, the useful lives are adjusted and any unamortized costs are written off accordingly. Auditors’ report – page 17 24 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notes to the Accounts 31 December 1999 (g) Fixed assets (i) Fixed assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is calculated to write off the costs of these assets on a straight line basis over their expected useful lives to the Group. The principal annual rates used for this purpose are:Percent Machinery and equipment Office equipment, furniture and fixtures Motor vehicles Computer equipment Computer software 20 15 to 20 20 25 to 33 20 The Group owns the moulds and tools used in the production of the Group’s products by third party manufacturers. Substantially all moulds and tools expenditure is depreciated in full in the year of initial product shipment. (ii) Impairment of fixed assets The carrying amounts of fixed assets are reviewed regularly to assess whether their recoverable amounts have declined below their carrying amounts. When such a decline has occurred, their carrying amount is reduced to their recoverable amount. (iii) Gain or loss on disposal of fixed assets The gain or loss on disposal of a fixed asset is the difference between the net sales proceeds and the carrying amount of the relevant asset, and is recognized in the profit and loss account. (iv) Restoration cost Major costs incurred in restoring fixed assets to their normal working condition are charged to the profit and loss account. Improvements are capitalized and depreciated over their expected useful lives to the Group. Auditors’ report – page 17 25 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notes to the Accounts 31 December 1999 1 PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D) (h) Investments in securities (i) Investment securities and investment securities reserve Investment securities are stated at cost or, in the case of investments previously treated as investments in associated companies or regarded as trading investments, at their carrying value at the date of change of classification, less any provision for permanent diminution in value considered necessary by the directors. The carrying value at the date of change was, in the case of investments previously held as investments in associated companies, the carrying value on the equity basis of accounting at that date or, in the case of investments previously held as trading investments, the lower of cost and market value at that date. Any excess in the carrying value over cost at the date of change is carried as investment securities reserve. Profits or losses on disposal of investment securities, representing the difference between the net sales proceeds and the carrying amounts, are recognised in the profit and loss account as they arise. Decreases in valuation, due to additional provisions or disposals, are charged against operating profits and a corresponding transfer is made between the investment securities reserve and retained profits until this investment securities reserve is insufficient to cover a deficit. (ii) Trading investments Trading investments are carried at fair value. At each balance sheet date, the net unrealised gains or losses arising from the changes in fair value of trading investments are recognised in the profit and loss account. Profits or losses on disposal of trading investments, representing the difference between the net sales proceeds and the carrying amounts, are recognised in the profit and loss account as they arise. In prior years, trading investments were stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. This represents a change in accounting policy in order to comply with Statement of Standard Accounting Practice Number 24 issued by the Hong Kong Society of Accountants. The change in accounting policy does not have any effect on the current year’s profit or retained earnings. The impact on the profits of prior years is immaterial and accordingly the comparatives have not been restated. (iii) Held-to-maturity securities Held-to-maturity securities are stated in the balance sheet at cost plus/less any discount/premium amortised to date. The discount or premium is amortised over the period to maturity and included as interest income/expense in the profit and loss account. Provision is made when there is a diminution in value. The carrying amounts of held-to-maturity securities are reviewed at the balance sheet date in order to assess the credit risk and whether the carrying amounts are expected to be recovered. Provisions are made when carrying amounts are not expected to be recovered and are recognised in the profit and loss account. Auditors’ report – page 17 26 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notes to the Accounts 31 December 1999 (i) Inventories Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Cost is determined on a weighted average basis. Net realisable value is determined on the basis of anticipated sales proceeds less estimated selling expenses. (j) Accounts receivable Provision is made against accounts receivable to the extent which they are considered to be doubtful. Accounts receivable in the balance sheet is stated net of such provision. (k) Operating leases Operating leases are leases where substantially all the rewards and risks of ownership of assets remain with the lessors. Related rental payments are charged to the profit and loss account on a straight line basis over the lease term. (l) Translation of foreign currencies Transactions in foreign currencies are translated at exchange rates ruling at the transaction dates. Monetary assets and liabilities expressed in foreign currencies at the balance sheet date are translated at rates of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. Exchange differences arising in these cases are dealt with in the profit and loss account. The accounts of subsidiaries expressed in foreign currencies are translated at the rates of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. Exchange differences are dealt with as a movement in exchange fluctuation reserve. (m) Retirement benefits The Group operates defined contribution provident fund schemes for its employees, the assets of which are held separately from those of the Group in independently administered funds. The Group’s contributions under the scheme are charged to the profit and loss account as incurred. The amount of the Group’s contributions is based on specified percentages of the basic salaries of employees. Any contributions forfeited by employees who leave, relating to unvested benefits, are used to reduce the Group’s ongoing contributions otherwise payable. (n) Borrowing costs Borrowing costs are charged to the profit and loss account in the year in which they are incurred. (o) Comparative figures Due to the adoption of the revised SSAP 1 and SSAP 2 during the current year, the presentation of the Group’s profit and loss account have been revised to comply with the new disclosure requirements. Accordingly, certain comparative figures have been reclassified to conform with the current year’s presentation. Auditors’ report – page 17 27 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notes to the Accounts 31 December 1999 2 TURNOVER AND REVENUES The group is principally engaged in the design, development, marketing and distribution of toys. Revenues recognised during the year are as follows:– 1999 1998 HK$’000 HK$’000 Turnover: Sales of toys and video games 1,081,836 883,995 Other revenues: Interest income Dividend income - Listed investments - Unlisted investment Total revenues 3 11,749 19,026 4,137 4 3,451 4 15,890 22,481 1,097,726 906,476 1999 HK$’000 1998 HK$’000 28,814 23,061 (9,510) 62,826 5,917 65,539 17,079 642 17,721 16,766 728 17,494 2,035 193 2,228 2,208 290 2,498 2,286 262 279 631 OPERATING PROFIT / (LOSS) The operating profit / (loss) is stated after charging and crediting the following:- Charging: Depreciation of fixed assets Staff costs - (Reversal of) / provision for discretionary bonus - Others Operating lease expenses - Office and warehouse facilities - Hire of equipment Auditors’ remuneration - Current year - Under provision in previous year Crediting: Net exchange gain Gain on disposal of fixed assets Auditors’ report – page 17 28 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notes to the Accounts 31 December 1999 4 INTEREST EXPENSE AND BANK CHARGES Interest on bank loans and overdrafts Factoring charges 5 1998 HK$’000 8,786 5,766 14,253 3,789 14,552 18,042 1999 HK$’000 1998 HK$’000 8,908 2,841 4,141 (6,664) – 12,000 7,026 3,455 – 72 9,226 22,553 1999 HK$’000 1998 HK$’000 (1,636) (22,692) (890) (3,508) – (835) OTHER INCOME, NET OF EXPENSES Interest income from bank deposits Interest income from debt securities Dividend income Net realised loss on disposal of investment and other securities Net realised gain on disposal of equity securities 6 1999 HK$’000 TAXATION (CHARGE) / CREDIT (a) The taxation (charge)/credit in the consolidated profit and loss account comprises:- Hong Kong profits tax Current year Prior years (note i) Transferred to deferred taxation account (25,218) (4,343) Overseas taxation Current year Prior years (note ii) Transferred to deferred taxation account (375) (5,629) – 3,618 22,604 (7,440) Share of taxation attributable to an associated company (6,004) (2,388) 18,782 (1,683) (33,610) 12,756 Auditors’ report – page 17 29 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notes to the Accounts 31 December 1999 6 TAXATION (CHARGE) / CREDIT (CONT’D) Hong Kong profits tax represents the amount provided at the rate of 16% (1998: 16%) on the estimated assessable profit for current year. Overseas taxation is provided on the profits/losses of the overseas subsidiaries and branch in accordance with the tax laws of the countries in which these entities operate. (i) The group’s offshore income claims for the seven years ended 31 December 1998 had been subject to review by the Hong Kong Inland Revenue Department (“IRD”). The review was finalized in February 2000. Following this, the IRD issued an agreed assessment for additional tax and interest aggregating approximately HK$23.5 million which has been charged to the profit and loss account for the year ended 31 December 1999. (ii) For the year ended 31 December 1998, the overseas taxation credit for prior years primarily represents tax refund received in respect of prior years. (b) The movements in the deferred taxation account are as follows:- Balance at 1 January Hong Kong Overseas Transferred to profit and loss account Hong Kong Overseas Balance at 31 December Hong Kong Overseas Auditors’ report – page 17 30 1999 HK$’000 1998 HK$’000 990 – 1,825 7,440 990 9,265 (890) – (835) (7,440) (890) (8,275) 100 – 990 – 100 990 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notes to the Accounts 31 December 1999 (c) Details of the full potential net deferred tax asset and of the amounts of deferred tax recognised in the accounts are as follows:1998 1999 Differences in depreciation allowances Other timing differences – overseas assessable losses carry forward – others 7 Full potential asset HK$’000 Amount recognised HK$’000 Full potential asset HK$’000 Amount recognised HK$’000 (115) – (358) – 77,014 64,045 – 100 68,393 54,342 – 990 141,059 100 122,735 990 140,944 100 122,377 990 PROFIT / (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO SHAREHOLDERS Included in the profit attributable to shareholders of HK$5,994,000 (1998: loss of HK$17,773,000) is a loss of HK$83,732,000 (1998: loss of HK$71,718,000) which is dealt with in the Company’s own accounts. 8 DIVIDENDS 1998 1999 HK$ per share Interim Proposed final Proposed special 9 HK$’000 HK$ per share HK$’000 – 0.06 0.25 – 39,912 166,302 0.03 0.03 – 19,832 19,832 – 0.31 206,214 0.06 39,664 EARNINGS / (LOSS) PER SHARE The calculation of earnings per share is based on the Group’s profit attributable to shareholders of HK$5,994,000 (1998: loss of HK$17,773,000) and the number of shares in issue of 661,065,673 (1998: 661,065,673) shares during the year. The options in shares of the Company do not result in a dilution effect on the earnings/loss per share in respect of the years ended 31 December 1999 and 1998. Auditors’ report – page 17 31 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notes to the Accounts 31 December 1999 10 EMOLUMENTS OF THE DIRECTORS AND THE FIVE HIGHEST PAID EMPLOYEES The emoluments of the directors and the five highest paid employees have been included in staff costs disclosed in note 3 to the accounts. (a) Directors’ emoluments The aggregate amounts of the directors’ emoluments are as follows:- Fees Basic salaries, housing allowances, other allowances and benefits in kind Discretionary bonuses Pension contributions 1999 HK$’000 1998 HK$’000 160 4,749 – 95 160 4,369 1,880 131 5,004 6,540 Directors’ fees include HK$160,000 (1998: HK$160,000) payable to non-executive directors. The numbers of directors whose emoluments for the year fell within the designated bands are as follows:Number of directors 1998 1999 HK$ Up to 1,000,000 1,000,001 - 1,500,000 1,500,001 - 2,000,000 2,000,001 - 2,500,000 3,000,001 - 3,500,000 7 1 – 1 – 4 1 1 – 1 No director waived emoluments in respect of the years ended 31 December 1999 and 1998. Pursuant to the Company’s Share Option Plan, the Company has granted share options to the directors. Details of the share options held by the directors are set out on page 14 in the Report of the Directors. Auditors’ report – page 17 32 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notes to the Accounts 31 December 1999 (b) Five highest paid employees’ emoluments Among the five top-paid employees, one (1998: one) is an executive director whose remuneration is disclosed above. The total remuneration of the other four (1998: four) highest paid employees, disclosed pursuant to the Listing Rules of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited, is as follows:- Basic salaries, housing allowances, other allowances and benefits in kind Pension contributions Discretionary bonuses 1999 HK$’000 1998 HK$’000 8,434 232 – 7,915 66 1,160 8,666 9,141 The emoluments of these highest paid employees fell within the following bands:Number of employees 1998 1999 HK$ 1,500,001 - 2,000,000 2,000,001 - 2,500,000 2,500,001 - 3,000,000 2 1 1 2 – 2 Auditors’ report – page 17 33 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notes to the Accounts 31 December 1999 11 FIXED ASSETS - GROUP Office equipment, Machinery furniture and and equipment fixtures Moulds and tools Motor Computer Computer vehicles equipment software HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 HK$’000 Total HK$’000 At 1 January 1999 Exchange movement Additions Disposals 1,864 (10) 9 (126) 35,871 59 2,227 (1,122) 307,664 – 17,232 – 4,959 98 217 (544) 17,265 (21) 3,019 (1,187) – – 17,482 – 367,623 126 40,186 (2,979) At 31 December 1999 1,737 37,035 324,896 4,730 19,076 17,482 404,956 At 1 January 1999 Exchange movement Charge for the year Disposals 1,743 (8) 60 (126) 18,519 (2) 5,953 (1,077) 307,664 – 17,232 – 3,179 38 370 (482) 12,929 (32) 3,268 (1,187) – – 1,931 – 344,034 (4) 28,814 (2,872) At 31 December 1999 1,669 23,393 324,896 3,105 14,978 1,931 369,972 Net book value at 31 December 1999 68 13,642 – 1,625 4,098 15,551 34,984 Net book value at 31 December 1998 121 17,352 – 1,780 4,336 – 23,589 Cost Accumulated depreciation Auditors’ report – page 17 34 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notes to the Accounts 31 December 1999 12 INVESTMENT IN SUBSIDIARIES Unlisted shares At cost At directors’ estimate of fair value on acquisition Less : Provision for permanent diminution in value Amounts due from subsidiaries Amounts due to subsidiaries 1999 HK$’000 1998 HK$’000 13,026 530,865 10,702 530,865 543,891 541,567 (295,685) (199,155) 248,206 342,412 280,814 (195,610) 306,950 (182,617) 333,410 466,745 The amounts due from or to subsidiaries are unsecured, interest free and have no fixed terms of repayment. Auditors’ report – page 17 35 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notes to the Accounts 31 December 1999 12 INVESTMENT IN SUBSIDIARIES (CONT’D) Details of the principal subsidiaries of the Company as at 31 December 1999 are as follows:Country/ place of incorporation Total issued and fully paid shares Playmates Asia Services Limited The British Virgin Islands 1 share of US$1 100 Provision of services, based in Hong Kong. Playmates Toys (Hong Kong) Limited Hong Kong 1,000 ordinary shares of HK$10 each 100 Toys product engineering, development, marketing and sales, based in Hong Kong and Macau. Playmates Inc. U.S.A. 30,000,000 common stock of US$0.01 each 100 Investment holding of subsidiaries operating in the U.S.A. Playmates Toys (U.K.) Limited U.K. 250,000 ordinary shares of £1 each 100 Toys sales and distribution in the U.K. Profit Point Limited The British Virgin Islands 1 ordinary share of US$1 100 Portfolio investments in Hong Kong. Playmates Toys Limited The British Virgin Islands 100 ordinary shares of US$1 each 100 Investments holding in Hong Kong. Playmates Toys Inc. U.S.A. 120,000 common stock of US$30 each 100 Toys development, marketing and distribution in the U.S.A. Next Electronix Inc. (formerly known as Playmates Interactive Entertainment Inc.) U.S.A. 80 shares of US$100 each and 199,920 shares of US$0.01 each 100 Electronics toys development, sales and distribution in and outside the U.S.A. Regarding Play Inc. U.S.A. 200,000 shares of US$0.01 each 90 Toys development, marketing and distribution in the U.S.A. Name of company Effective percentage holding Nature of business and place of operation Shares held directly :- Shares held indirectly :- The above table includes the subsidiaries of the Company which, in the opinion of the directors, principally affected the results of the year or formed a substantial portion of the net assets of the group. To give details of other subsidiaries would, in the opinion of the directors, result in particulars of excessive length. Auditors’ report – page 17 36 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notes to the Accounts 31 December 1999 13 INVESTMENT IN AN ASSOCIATED COMPANY - GROUP As at 31 December 1999, the Group held interests in the following associated company:- Name of company Place of incorporation Shares Held directly % Unimax Holdings Limited (“Unimax”) The British Virgin Islands Ordinary shares 49 Analysis of the Group’s interest in the associated company:1999 HK$’000 1998 HK$’000 Share of net assets 27,683 26,085 Investment at cost, unlisted shares 18,077 18,077 Unimax is an investment holding company whose subsidiaries are principally engaged in the design and marketing of preschool toys and dolls. Auditors’ report – page 17 37 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notes to the Accounts 31 December 1999 14 INVESTMENT IN SECURITIES - GROUP (a) Investment securities 1999 HK$’000 1998 HK$’000 224,805 235,960 49,868 49,868 – 70,000 Provision 274,673 (11,266) 355,828 (11,825) Unlisted shares, at cost 263,407 50 344,003 50 263,457 344,053 85,224 136,773 1,208,600 86,158 Listed equity securities in Hong Kong – at carrying value on the equity basis of accounting at the date the investment ceased to be an associated company (note (i)) – at carrying value when other investment was reclassified as investment securities (note (ii)) Listed bonds in Hong Kong – at cost Market value of listed shares – as at 31 December (note (iii)) – as at the date of approval of accounts (note (iii)) (i) At 31 December 1999, the Group held 244,900,000 (1998 : 257,052,000) ordinary shares in Harbour Ring International Holdings Limited (“HRIH”), which is incorporated in Bermuda, representing 14.17% (1998 : 14.87%) of HRIH’s issued share capital. Subsequent to 31 December 1999, the share capital of HRIH has undergone a restructuring, resulting in a dilution in the Group’s shareholdings in HRIH to approximately 4.3% of its enlarged capital. The amount of the Group’s holding in HRIH exceeded 10% of the total assets of the Group. (ii) At 31 December 1999, the Group held 34,156,338 (1998 : 34,156,338) shares of Prestige Properties Holdings Limited (“PPHL”) representing 5.1% (1998 : 5.1%) of the total issued shares of that company. PPHL and the Company have a common major shareholder. In March 2000, PPHL has conditionally agreed to place additional shares to independent investors. Upon completion of the placing, there will be a dilution in the Group’s shareholdings in PPHL to approximately 4.3%. (iii) The investments in listed securities are intended to be held for the long term. Consequently the directors believe that the underlying net asset values of the investments are a better basis than market value for determining whether permanent diminution in value has arisen. Auditors’ report – page 17 38 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notes to the Accounts 31 December 1999 (b) Other investments Equity securities listed in Hong Kong Held-to-maturity securities listed outside Hong Kong, at cost Market value as at 31 December 15 1999 HK$’000 1998 HK$’000 169 – 216 11,552 169 11,768 169 11,231 INVENTORIES - GROUP At 31 December 1999, the amount of inventories that are carried at net realisable value amounted to HK$5,437,000 (1998: HK$16,706,000). 16 TRADE RECEIVABLES - GROUP As at 31 December 1999, trade receivables of the subsidiaries in the U.S.A. totalling HK$355,258,000 (1998: HK$201,305,000) were pledged to financial institutions in return for the provision of credit facilities. The financial institutions assume the credit risk associated with the trade receivables so pledged (note 21). Auditors’ report – page 17 39 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notes to the Accounts 31 December 1999 17 SHARE CAPITAL Authorised 1,500,000,000 shares of HK$0.10 each Issued and fully paid 661,065,673 (1998: 661,065,673) shares of HK$0.10 each 1999 HK$’000 1998 HK$’000 150,000 150,000 66,107 66,107 Details of the share options granted pursuant to the Share Option Plan of the Company are as follows:Number of options Date of Grant Exercise Price Balance at beginning of year Granted during the year Exercised during the year Lapsed during the year Balance at end of year HK$ 15 May 1998 0.5860 29,140,000 – – 3,100,000 26,040,000 26 Aug 1998 0.5860 2,000,000 – – 1,200,000 800,000 27 May 1999 0.5580 – 9,100,000 – 470,000 8,630,000 17 August 1999 0.4620 – 7,500,000 – – 7,500,000 20 October 1999 0.4780 – 4,750,000 – – 4,750,000 31,140,000 21,350,000 – 4,770,000 47,720,000 The options are exercisable in stages in accordance with the terms of the Share Option Plan within ten years from their date of granting. Additionally, pursuant to a Merchandising License Agreement (the “Agreement”) entered into between Playmates Inc., an U.S. subsidiary of the Company, and an independent third party licensor (the “Grantee”), an option to acquire shares in the Company has been granted to the Grantee. According to the Agreement, the Company granted an option to the Grantee for the acquisition of 19,831,970 shares at a price of HK$0.7683 per share exercisable between 27 March 1998 and the expiry date of the term of the Agreement at 31 December 1999. The option lapsed without being exercised. Auditors’ report – page 17 40 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notes to the Accounts 31 December 1999 18 RESERVES (a) The Group Share premium account HK$’000 Capital redemption reserve HK$’000 Reserve on consolidation HK$’000 Investment securities reserve HK$’000 Exchange fluctuation reserve HK$’000 Retained profits HK$’000 HK$’000 At 1 January 1998 Exchange loss on translation of accounts of foreign subsidiaries Loss for the year Dividends Deficit on revaluation of the Group’s long term investments (Note 14 (a)) 5,397 347 20,964 158,602 (24,546) 426,323 587,087 – – – – – – – – – – – – (2,713) – – – (18,266) (39,664) – – – (11,825) – 11,825 – At 1 January 1999 Exchange loss on translation of accounts of foreign subsidiaries Profit for the year Dividends Release upon the Group’s disposal of investment securities 5,397 347 20,964 146,777 (27,259) 380,218 526,444 – – – – – – – – – – – – (4,579) – – – 4,396 (206,214) – – – (6,939) – 6,939 – At 31 December 1999 5,397 347 20,964 185,339 320,047 Total (i) The Company and its subsidiaries 139,838 (31,838) (2,713) (18,266) (39,664) (4,579) 4,396 (206,214) Auditors’ report – page 17 41 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notes to the Accounts 31 December 1999 18 RESERVES (CONT’D) Share premium account HK$’000 Capital redemption reserve HK$’000 Reserve on consolidation HK$’000 Investment securities reserve HK$’000 Exchange fluctuation reserve HK$’000 Retained profits HK$’000 HK$’000 – – – – 16 12,462 12,478 – – – – – 493 493 Total (ii) Associated company Share of post-acquisition reserves At 1 January 1998 Share of profit for the year less dividend At 1 January 1999 Share of profit for the year less dividend – – – – 16 12,955 12,971 – – – – – 1,598 1,598 At 31 December 1999 – – – – 16 14,553 14,569 At 31 December 1999 5,397 347 20,964 139,838 (31,822) 199,892 334,616 At 1 January 1999 5,397 347 20,964 146,777 (27,243) 393,173 539,415 (i) and (ii) The Group The share premium of HK$5,397,000 arose upon the combination of the company and a then fellow subsidiary, accounted for as a merge pursuant to a group restructuring in 1993. (b) The Company Share premium account HK$’000 Capital redemption reserve HK$’000 Contributed surplus HK$’000 Retained profits HK$’000 Total HK$’000 At 1 January 1998 Profit for the year Dividends 3,541 – – 347 – – 171,750 – – 256,680 71,718 (39,664) 432,318 71,718 (39,664) At 1 January 1999 Loss for the year Dividends 3,541 – – 347 – – 171,750 – (166,302) 288,734 (83,732) (39,912) 464,372 (83,732) (206,214) At 31 December 1999 3,541 347 5,448 165,090 174,426 Auditors’ report – page 17 42 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notes to the Accounts 31 December 1999 (c) Distributable reserves The reserves of the Company available for dividend or distribution comprised the following:- Contributed surplus Retained profits 1999 HK$’000 1998 HK$’000 5,448 165,090 171,750 288,734 170,538 460,484 Contributed surplus in the amount of HK$171,750,000 arose on the merger, in 1993, of a then fellow subsidiary with the Company. The amount represents the excess of the consolidated net asset value of the then fellow subsidiary over the nominal value of the Company’s shares issued in exchange therefor and is distributable subject to and in accordance with The Companies Act 1981 of Bermuda. In 1999, a special dividend of HK$166,302,000 was distributed from the contributed surplus account, reducing it to HK$5,448,000. (d) Investment securities reserve The investment securities reserve represents the difference between the cost and the carrying value when certain long term investee companies, previously treated as associated companies, were reclassified to other investments. This includes the Group’s attributable share of those companies’ reserves, including retained profits less accumulated losses, less subsequent provisions. Auditors’ report – page 17 43 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notes to the Accounts 31 December 1999 19 NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT (a) (b) Reconciliation of operating profit/(loss) to net cash (outflow)/inflow from operating activities 18,468 – (11,749) 8,786 (4,141) 28,814 (262) 6,664 – 62,622 (38,585) 11,825 (19,026) 14,253 (3,455) 23,061 (631) – (72) (18,346) (240,701) (10,508) 377,210 (133,769) Net cash (outflow) / inflow from operating activities (142,007) 212,465 1999 HK$’000 1998 HK$’000 336,251 (334,149) 249,702 (144,845) 2,102 104,857 Analysis of cash and cash equivalents CONTINGENT LIABILITIES (a) The Company has executed guarantees amounting to approximately HK$592 million (1998: HK$513 million) with respect to banking facilities made available to subsidiaries. As at 31 December 1999, the borrowings outstanding against the facilities amounted to HK$338 million (1998: HK$154 million). (b) The Internal Revenue Services (“IRS”) of the United States of America has commenced a review of the US subsidiary companies’ income tax affairs, including transfer pricing and other matters, for the years of 1996 and 1997. The review conducted by the IRS is presently ongoing. It is too early to assess the likely outcome of the review and is, therefore, not practicable to assess whether any additional tax assessment might arise. Hence, no provision has been made in the accounts in respect of this event, taking into account the legal advice received. Auditors’ report – page 17 44 1998 HK$’000 Operating profit / (loss) Provision for diminution in value of investment securities Interest income Interest on bank loans and overdrafts Dividends received from investments Depreciation Gain on disposal of fixed assets Net realised loss on disposal of investment and other securities Net realised gain on disposal of equity securities Decrease/(increase) in inventories (Increase)/decrease in trade receivables, other receivables, deposits and prepayments Decrease in trade payables, other payables and accrued charges Cash and bank balances Notes payable to banks 20 1999 HK$’000 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notes to the Accounts 31 December 1999 21 BANKING AND OTHER FACILITIES The inventories and the trade receivables of the subsidiaries in the U.S.A. amounting to HK$356 million (1998 : HK$269 million) and bank balance of a subsidiary in Hong Kong amounting to HK$66 million (1998 : nil) have been pledged to financial institutions as security for the credit facilities provided to the respective subsidiaries. Total facilities utilised as at the balance sheet date amounted to HK$296 million (1998: HK$124 million). 22 COMMITMENTS As at 31 December 1999, the Group had the following commitments:(a) Capital commitments Contracted but not provided for (b) 1999 HK$’000 1998 HK$’000 – 7,684 Licensing commitments In the normal course of business, the Group enters into contractual licensing agreements to secure its rights to create, develop and market certain toys and video games products for future sales. Certain licensing agreements contain financial commitment by the Group to the licensors to be fulfilled during the terms of contract. The amount of financial commitment contracted but not provided for at the end of the year were payable as follows:– Within one year More than one year but not exceeding two years More than two years but not exceeding five years 1999 HK$’000 1998 HK$’000 5,553 1,511 – 9,817 2,705 5,706 7,064 18,228 Auditors’ report – page 17 45 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notes to the Accounts 31 December 1999 22 COMMITMENTS (CONT’D) (c) Lease commitments Commitments in respect of operating leases for office and warehouse facilities to make payments in the next year are as follows:- Expiring within one year Expiring after one year but within five years Expiring over five years 23 1999 HK$’000 1998 HK$’000 668 8,808 3,092 1,141 14,799 3,060 12,568 19,000 RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS During the year, the Group leased office premises and a storeroom for its own occupation from subsidiaries of Prestige Properties Holdings Limited (“PPHL”) in the normal course of business. The gross rent paid during the year amounted to HK$5,619,000 (1998: HK$4,733,000), being at fair market rent . The Company and PPHL are related parties by reason of their being held by a common major shareholder. As at 31 December 1999, the Group held 34,156,338 shares of PPHL representing 5.1% of the total issued shares. 24 RETIREMENT BENEFIT SCHEMES The Group maintains defined contribution retirement benefit schemes for its employees in its Hong Kong and overseas subsidiaries. The schemes require the contribution of the same amount by the Group and its employees at various funding rates up to a maximum of 15% of the monthly salary and in accordance with the terms stipulated in the relevant scheme. The Group’s contributions charged to the profit and loss account for 1999 were HK$3,240,000 (1998: HK$3,078,000). In Hong Kong, any forfeited Group contributions relating to employees who leave the scheme prior to such contributions vesting fully are used to reduce future contributions. The forfeited contributions utilised by the Group in 1999 amounted to HK$127,000 (1998: HK$416,000). 25 US DOLLAR EQUIVALENTS These are shown for reference only and have been arrived at based on the exchange rate of HK$7.75 to US$1.00 ruling at 31 December 1999. 26 APPROVAL OF ACCOUNTS The accounts were approved by the Board of Directors on 23 March 2000. Auditors’ report – page 17 46 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Comparative Table of Results, Assets and Liabilities The following table summarises the results, assets and liabilities of the Group for each of the five years ended 31 December:– 1995 HK$’000 1996 HK$’000 1997 HK$’000 1998 HK$’000 1999 HK$’000 1,118,946 1,218,505 1,525,501 883,995 1,081,836 4,082 65,330 (129,499) (38,585) 18,468 Share of profits/(losses) of associated companies (102,039) 10,695 11,378 8,056 21,134 Profit/(loss) before taxation (97,957) 76,025 (118,121) (30,529) 39,602 (23) (22,385) 4,291 12,756 (33,610) (97,980) 53,640 (113,830) (17,773) 5,992 383 – – – 2 (97,597) 53,640 (113,830) (17,773) 5,994 1,345,531 1,530,005 1,504,909 1,042,224 1,213,423 Total liabilities 507,385 693,528 839,237 436,702 812,700 Net assets 838,146 836,477 665,672 605,522 400,723 Turnover Profit/(loss) from ordinary activities Taxation (charge)/credit Profit/(loss) before minority interests Minority interests Profit/(loss) attributable to shareholders Total assets 47 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notice of Annual General Meeting NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Annual General Meeting of the Company will be held at the Ballroom, 2nd floor, Great Eagle Hotel, 8 Peking Road, Tsimshatsui, Kowloon on Friday, 12 May 2000 at 12:15 p.m. for the following purposes:– 1. To receive and consider the accounts and the reports of the directors and auditors for the year ended 31 December 1999; 2. To declare a final dividend and a special dividend; 3. To re-elect directors; 4. To fix the ordinary remuneration of the directors; 5. To appoint auditors and to authorise the board of directors to fix their remuneration; and 6. As special business to consider and, if thought fit, pass the following resolutions as Ordinary Resolutions and Special Resolution:– ORDINARY RESOLUTIONS A. “THAT the maximum number of directors of the Company for the time being be fixed at twenty and that the directors of the Company be authorised to fill any vacancies on the board and to appoint additional directors up to such maximum number in addition to those in office at the close of this meeting.” B. “THAT:– (a) the exercise by the directors of the Company during the Relevant Period (as defined below) of all the powers of the Company to repurchase shares of HK$0.10 each in the capital of the Company, subject to paragraph (b) below, be and is hereby generally and unconditionally approved; (b) the aggregate number of the shares of the Company which may be repurchased by the Company on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited or any other stock exchange recognised for this purpose by the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong and The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited under the Hong Kong Code on Share Repurchases pursuant to the approval in paragraph (a) above shall not exceed 10 per cent. of the issued share capital of the Company on the date of passing this Resolution and the said approval shall be limited accordingly; and (c) for the purposes of this Resolution:– “Relevant Period” means the period from the passing of this Resolution until whichever is the earlier of:– 48 (i) the conclusion of the next annual general meeting of the Company; or (ii) the expiration of the period within which the next annual general meeting of the Company is required by the Companies Act 1981 of Bermuda or the Company’s bye-laws to be held; or Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notice of Annual General Meeting (iii) the date on which the authority given under this Resolution is revoked or varied by an ordinary resolution of the shareholders of the Company in general meeting.” C. “THAT:– the granting of an unconditional general mandate to the directors of the Company to issue, allot and deal with unissued shares in the capital of the Company, and to make or grant offers, agreements and options or other rights, and issue warrants and other securities, which would or might require the exercise of such power, subject to the following conditions, be and is hereby generally and unconditionally approved:– (a) such mandate shall not extend beyond the Relevant Period (as defined below) save that the directors of the Company may during the Relevant Period make or grant offers, agreements and options or other rights, and issue warrants and other securities, which would or might require the exercise of such powers after the expiry of the Relevant Period; (b) the aggregate number of shares allotted or agreed conditionally or unconditionally to be allotted or issued or dealt with (whether pursuant to an option or otherwise) by the directors of the Company pursuant to the mandate granted under this Resolution otherwise than pursuant to (i) a Rights Issue (as defined below); (ii) any share option plan or similar arrangement of the Company for the time being adopted for the grant or issue to officers and/or employees of the Company and/or any of its subsidiaries of shares or rights to acquire shares of the Company; and (iii) any scrip dividend or similar arrangement providing for the allotment of shares in lieu of the whole or part of a dividend on shares of the Company in accordance with the bye-laws of the Company, shall not exceed 20 per cent. of the issued share capital of the Company as at the date of passing this Resolution, and the said approval under this Resolution shall be limited accordingly; and (c) for the purposes of this Resolution:– “Relevant Period” means the period from the passing of this Resolution until whichever is the earlier of:– (i) the conclusion of the next annual general meeting of the Company; or (ii) the expiration of the period within which the next annual general meeting of the Company is required by the bye-laws of the Company or the Companies Act 1981 of Bermuda to be held; or (iii) the date on which the authority given under this Resolution is revoked or varied by an ordinary resolution of the shareholders of the Company in general meeting; and “Rights Issue” means an offer of shares open for a period fixed by the directors of the Company made to holders of shares on the register of members of the Company on a fixed record date in proportion to their then holdings of such shares (subject to such exclusions or other arrangements as the directors of the Company may deem necessary or expedient in relation to fractional entitlements or having regard to any restrictions or obligations under the laws of, or the requirements of, any recognised regulatory body or any stock exchange in, or in any territory outside, Hong Kong).” 49 Pl ay m at es Pla ym ate s Notice of Annual General Meeting D. “THAT, conditional upon the passing of Resolution No. 6B set out in the notice convening this meeting, the general mandate granted to the directors of the Company to exercise the powers of the Company to allot shares pursuant to Resolution No. 6C set out in the notice convening this meeting be and is hereby extended by the addition to the aggregate number of the shares which may be allotted or agreed conditionally or unconditionally to be allotted by the directors of the Company pursuant to such general mandate, of an aggregate number of shares of the Company repurchased by the Company under the authority granted pursuant to Resolution No. 6B set out in the notice convening this meeting, provided that such number shall not exceed 10 per cent. of the issued share capital of the Company as at the date of passing this Resolution.” SPECIAL RESOLUTION E. “THAT, the name of the Company be changed from “Playmates Toys Holdings Limited” to “Playmates Interactive Entertainment Limited.” By Order of the Board Tracy Fong Secretary Hong Kong, 23 March 2000 Notes: 50 (1) Every member of the Company entitled to attend and vote at the Meeting is entitled to appoint one or more proxies to attend and vote instead of him. A proxy need not be a member of the Company. (2) In order to be valid, the form of proxy, together with any power of attorney or other authority (if any) under which it is signed, or a certified copy of such power or authority, must be delivered to the Company’s principal office in Hong Kong at 21/F., 100 Canton Road, Tsimshatsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong not less than 48 hours before the time appointed for holding the Meeting. (3) The register of members of the Company will be closed from 3 May 2000 to 12 May 2000, both days inclusive, during which period no transfer of shares of the Company will be effected. In order to qualify for the final dividend and special dividend, all transfers accompanied by the relevant share certificates must be lodged with the Company’s Branch Registrars, Abacus Share Registrars Limited at 2401 Prince’s Building, Central, Hong Kong not later than 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, 2 May 2000.