888
Annual Report 2008

Plain-text annual report

ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2008 l 8 8 8 H o d n g s p c l i A n n u a l R e p o r t & A c c o u n t s 2 0 0 8 888 Holdings plc Suite 601/701 Europort Europort Road Gibraltar T: +350 20049800 F: +350 20048280 E: Info@888holdingsplc.com www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COMCVR (8mm Spine).indd 1 16254888COMCVR (8mm Spine).indd 1 16254 06/04/2009 Proof 5 16254 06/04/2009 Proof 5 08/04/2009 11:10 08/04/2009 11:10 Contents IFC Highlights 2 3 4 6 8 12 31 33 34 35 38 45 48 50 50 51 52 53 79 80 81 82 Group at a Glance 888 Brands/Partners Brands Expanding our Offering Chairman’s Statement CEO’s Review Enhanced Business Review Corporate Social Responsibility Risk Report Board of Directors Corporate Governance Remuneration Report Directors’ Report Independent Auditors’ Report Group Income Statement Group Statement of Recognised Income and Expense Group Balance Sheet Group Statement of Cash Flows Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Company Balance Sheet Company Statement of Recognised Income and Expense Company Statement of Cash Flows Notes to the Company Financial Statements 84 Shareholder Information Highlights At 888.com we believe that entertainment is the spark that completes our lives; that, after the challenges and routine that occupies our daily lives, everyone seeks fun and enjoyment . . . At 888.com we believe that we are the home of online gaming entertainment. Our primary responsibility is to provide the best gaming experience to our customers and the best services to our business partners. This requires the most entertaining, innovative and relevant games and the most exciting and rewarding entertainment opportunities to win in a responsible, yet fun environment. Our strategy is to achieve profitable growth through both the acquisition and retention of valuable customers by providing our customers a differentiated, intentional customer experience in a safe, secure, trustworthy and responsible environment, and by providing our gaming services through selected business partners. Our goal is to become the leading online gaming entertainment and related business services company in the world. To achieve this, we must consistently provide our customers with an ideal customer experience, and our business partners with excellent services. 16254888COMCVR (8mm Spine).indd 2 16254888COMCVR (8mm Spine).indd 2 16254 06/04/2009 Proof 5 16254 06/04/2009 Proof 5 08/04/2009 11:10 08/04/2009 11:10 Total Operating Income Total Operating Income — Casino Total Operating Income — Poker Total Operating Income — Emerging Offering up 21% US$ million 263 217 up 15% US$ million down -4% US$ million up 208% US$ million 139 120 82 79 45 2007 2008 2007 2008 2007 2008 2007 2008 14 EBITDA1,2 Profit before Tax1 EPS1 up 23% US$ million 56 46 up 6% US$ million 46 49 up 6% cents Net Cash Generated from Operating Activities up 22% US$ million 12.6 13.4 56 46 2007 2008 2007 2008 2007 2008 2007 2008 Real Money Registered Customer Accounts up 24% million 5.8 4.7 2007 2008 1 Excluding share benefit charges of US$8.4 million (2007: US$7.8 million). 2 Excluding exchange rate loss of US$2.6 million (2007: gain of US$1.1 million). Annual Report & Accounts 2008 1 16254888COM FRONT.indd 1 16254888COM FRONT.indd 1 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:46 08/04/2009 17:46 Group at a Glance Our Strategic Changes 888 has made several strategic changes to address evolving challenges in the e-gaming industry. The Group has transformed its business from being a consumer focused casino and poker operator into two separate lines of business: “B2C” and “B2B”, each of which has a separate mangement structure. 888 now offers consumers worldwide all four core B2C product offerings: Casino, Poker, Bingo and Sportsbetting as well as Live Dealer and Backgammon. We are experiencing rapid growth especially in our B2C’s “Emerging Offering” which includes Bingo, Sportsbook, Live Dealer Casino and Backgammon. 888 is also developing its B2B business line and is becoming a leading provider of technology, operations and know-how to business partners, using its existing capabilities. 888 is uniquely positioned to work with carefully selected strategic partners who are either aiming to monetise their existing database, brand loyalty and media assets or looking to enhance their existing online gaming operations. 888 has already secured a number of high profile agreements which highlight both the potential of this strategic direction and 888’s unique position as a leading operator offering a full service model in the B2B field. These include partnerships in 2007 with Riley’s, Tower Torneos and LuckyAce. 2008 has seen an acceleration in B2B development with several more deals in Western, Central and Eastern Europe, including the groundbreaking partnership with the UK Football Pools (Sportech Plc) highlighting the potential for 888 in this area. The development and growth of the B2B business is an integral part of 888’s growth strategy for 2009 and beyond. From Casino & Poker Operator To B2C Casino Poker Bingo Sport Live Dealer, Backgammon B2B Software Payment Solutions Customer Support Marketing CRM Services 2 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM FRONT.indd 2 16254888COM FRONT.indd 2 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:46 08/04/2009 17:46 Our Brands .com Our Partners’ Brands Annual Report & Accounts 2008 3 16254888COM FRONT.indd 3 16254888COM FRONT.indd 3 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:46 08/04/2009 17:46 Expanding our Offering 888ladies, launched in February 2008 in the UK, is a gender-targeted bingo offering that has become in a relatively short period of time one of the most popular online bingo rooms in the UK. The brand has been successfully launched, and continues to prosper, as a bingo site that is not just all about bingo, but as much about being an 888lady. Successful online and offline marketing activity has enabled 888ladies to convey this core message most effectively into an emerging and competitive market place. We aim to provide our customers with not just a leisure activity but a way to access a different, indulgent lifestyle that simply cannot be accessed through any other bingo, or indeed gaming, site. 888ladies has six bingo rooms, two of which are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, all offering an ever increasing customer base an ever growing number of bingo games. Customers can play 75/90 ball bingo and buy tickets for big cash games, including the monthly guaranteed £8,888 jackpot game. Over 2,500 customers play at 888ladies every day while there are over 30,000 funded players on the site. A figure which continues to grow, day on day, month by month. The site has very quickly become established as a firm favourite among the bingo playing community and 888ladies has already received many plaudits from within the industry. Indeed, 888ladies took the prestigious eGaming Review Bingo Operator of the Year Award in 2008 only a few months after its launch. 888ladies aims to provide its customers with a warm and loving environment, actively developing a community by creating a lively and buzzing chat room as well as a daily updated blog. It continues to enjoy significant growth and looks set to remain a leader in this sector for years to come. 4 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM FRONT.indd 4 16254888COM FRONT.indd 4 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:46 08/04/2009 17:46 A comprehensive statistics service is also available to all 888sport customers which encompasses every sport on which we accept bets. In addition, 888sport offers a wide-ranging results service available at a click of a button. Sports results are constantly updated throughout the day on the site providing details of numerous sporting activities from around the globe, every minute of the day, 24/7. Launched in March 2008, 888sport is an international sports book available in seven countries delivering localised sports betting opportunities and editorial content. It remains a fully functioning portal allowing customers to place bets in various currencies via a number of language specific websites. 888sport provides betting opportunities on a wide range of sports events including UK and Irish horseracing; domestic, European and international football; as well as greyhound racing, golf, cricket, rugby, motor racing, tennis and various novelty and reality television events such as Big Brother. At any one time tens of thousands of betting odds are available on hundreds of sports events from around the world. Each day 888sport also offers an ever increasing number of in play betting opportunities where customers can place bets on live events. This enables customers to react to matches as they happen, and to place bets based on events as they occur in real time. 888sport offers live in play betting markets for numerous sports including football, cricket, rugby, darts and snooker, as well as International events such as American football, tennis, golf and basketball. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 5 16254888COM FRONT.indd 5 16254888COM FRONT.indd 5 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:46 08/04/2009 17:46 Chairman’s Statement “2008 has been a year of significant change, both to our business model and to the macro-economic environment in which we compete.” On behalf of the Board of 888 Holdings plc, I am pleased to present the financial results for the year ended 31 December 2008. This has been a year of significant change, both to our business model and to the macroeconomic environment in which we compete. B2C We grew our core B2C offering impressively in 2008, and now offer all four key online gaming segments: Casino, Poker, Sportsbetting and Bingo. Our leading Casino business was again one of the main drivers for the Group’s revenue growth and our online brand, 888Casino, had a very successful year. It is now available in 19 different languages and underpinned 888 being awarded the prestigious eGaming Awards 2008 Casino Operator of the Year Award. Our Poker operation recorded a small decline in Total Revenue but expanded geographically with a new localised offering launched in 11 new languages in 2008, bringing it to a total of 20 languages. We have continued the successful consolidation of our business away from a US market dominated Casino and Poker model to a more internationally diverse gaming entertainment business with a significantly expanded product offering. This now includes our market leading Bingo offering, sports betting, ‘Live Dealer’ and backgammon and importantly an integration infrastructure which opens up our platform to games from other vendors. B2B As part of a strategic move to expand our business model, we have continued the development of our B2B offering to become a leading provider of technology, operations and knowledge to business partners, using our existing capabilities. We believe there is a huge opportunity in this area especially as the operator environment is fragmented and existing lottery operators are optimistic that online offerings will become a major future growth opportunity. This development has required many technological and cultural changes in our organisation but we are now reaping the rewards and we have first mover advantage as a B2C operator ‘moving into’ B2B with a complete package of the services we can offer to our B2B customers. Employees I would like to thank all 888 employees, management and customers for making 2008 another record year, despite what developed into an extremely difficult economic environment in the latter part of the year. Responsible Gaming Responsible gaming is a fundamental pillar to our business. Our aim is to ensure our services are used responsibly. During the year we have expanded our activities in this important area as more fully described in the Enhanced Business Review. Financial Results 2008 was another year of strong growth for 888. Total Operating Income (“TOI”) increased 21% to US$263 million (2007: US$217 million) underpinned by 208% growth in our Emerging Offering to US$45 million (2007: US$14 million) and a 15% rise in TOI from Casino to US$139 million (2007: US$120 million). EBITDA* increased 23% to US$56 million (2007: US$46 million). * Before share benefit charges of US$8.4 million (2007: US$7.8 million) and exchange rate losses of US$2.6 million (2007: gains of US$1.1 million). 6 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM FRONT.indd 6 16254888COM FRONT.indd 6 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:46 08/04/2009 17:46 Operator of the Year Best Gaming and Betting Company V Responsible gaming is a fundamental pillar to our business. Our aim is to ensure our services are used responsibly. Dividend Given our strong financial results, the Board has recommended a final dividend of 2.9 cents per share in addition to our interim dividend of 2.5 cents per share paid in October 2008. Outlook 2008 has been a transformational year for 888 and we have made tremendous progress in uniquely challenging economic circumstances. We have become a world class B2B end-to-end gaming solution provider whilst maintaining and growing our position as one of the leading operators in the e-gaming world serving consumers globally under our own B2C brands. Our pipeline for 2009 is promising and your Board expects to continue our progress across all business parts for the foreseeable future. Richard Kilsby Chairman Annual Report & Accounts 2008 7 16254888COM FRONT.indd 7 16254888COM FRONT.indd 7 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:46 08/04/2009 17:46 Chief Executive Offi cer’s Review “We believe that the combined B2C and B2B model is an essential key to successfully growing the business in 2009, and we therefore intend to continue focusing on both these lines of business.” Introduction The first half of 2008 was again a very successful trading period for 888 delivering record half year results and a seventh consecutive period of semi-annual growth. Trading during the traditionally weaker summer months of July and August remained solid with TOI in August growing above July’s level. However, like most business sectors, we were not immune to the unprecedented ferocity with which the global economy slowed. Growth in September began to slow and that coupled with the extraordinarily volatile exchange rate movements — especially the sharp decline in the value of European currencies versus the US dollar — has impacted the business. Despite the difficult circumstances, our underlying business remained solid throughout the year, and we have delivered 21% revenue growth year on year. We are confident in our business model and strategy and find our successful combination of a world class B2C organisation and an innovative B2B provider in the sector a strong model that enables us to deal better with the current challenges the industry faces. As proof, our firm foundation of B2C earnings, which was significantly expanded and diversified in 2008, was complemented by a rapid growth in our B2B business in the year. TOI increased 21% to US$263 million (2007: US$217 million) underpinned by 208% growth in our Emerging Offering to US$45 million (2007: US$14 million) with EBITDA* increase of 23% to US$56 million (2007: US$46 million). * Before share benefit charges of US$8.4 million (2007: US$7.8 million) and exchange rate losses of US$2.6 million (2007: gains of US$1.1 million). Delivering on our Strategy 2008 marked another milestone in the delivery of our strategic goals in the completion of the transformation of our product offering and the significant evolution of our strategic partnership programme into a significant B2B business. In the first half of the year we made strategic investments in both our offering and our brand. The constant drive to acquire and retain customers through an enhanced and innovative offering saw 888 transformed into a comprehensive provider of the four key online gaming segments: Casino, Poker, Sportsbetting and Bingo as well as additional niche products such as Backgammon. In March we launched www.888sport.com (“888sport”), a pan-European sports betting offering, developed with Blue Square, the interactive gaming and betting division of Rank Group Plc. The service was initially launched in five markets and we have also recently launched in one additional market and plan to further expand our geographic reach in 2009. Our sports product delivered solid performance in its first year. 8 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM FRONT.indd 8 16254888COM FRONT.indd 8 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:46 08/04/2009 17:46 Our Bingo offering has been significantly expanded and enhanced during the year. 888ladies, our new sub-brand targeted predominantly at a female audience, was officially launched in February and backed by a high profile TV campaign featuring well-known celebrity comedian Vic Reeves. The launch was a huge success with customers and the industry alike as was recognised when we were named Bingo Operator of the Year at the eGaming Awards. At the end of the year we announced the further expansion in the B2B side of our Bingo business, achieved by signing agreements to launch three new Bingo networks in addition to the seven we already operate. One of these in Spain will be, for the first time, a localised offering tailored specifically for local tastes and customers. In addition to operating our own brands we also host, on a full managed service basis, a number of skins and during the year agreements were signed to add another six new partners to the network. Bingo remains the fastest growing segment in the online gaming industry and we feel we are very well positioned in this market. The result of these activities was significant growth in the bingo business in 2008. As well as launching our own new products, in 2008 we have evolved our strategy toward the creation of a games- ecosystem powered by our industry-leading integration infrastructure. This enables us to introduce a diversified offering to existing and new players rapidly and with a low cost of development and integration. By opening up our platform for integration with games from other vendors we are offering our customers an accelerated rate of new games launches while offering third party game providers the best platform on which to debut or grow the exposure of their titles. Over a dozen games integration contracts have been signed giving us access to more than 1,000 new games — of which 22 are already launched in various parts of our business. This dual approach, which gives us the ability to introduce games easily and quickly into local markets, will remain a core element of our strategy as we strive to increase customer loyalty and lifetime value and continue to attract new players. 2008 was a transformational year in terms of our B2B business, which grew rapidly throughout the year. The real step change for our B2B operations came in June with the ground-breaking partnership we signed with Sportech PLC, one of the UK’s leading gaming businesses. Under the partnership 888 provides Sportech with a turnkey online gaming operation which includes our market leading gaming and back-end software, customer support and payments processing as well as — for the first time — the marketing of all their products online. We believe the combination of Sportech’s brands in global pools sports betting coupled with our software, operations, Internet marketing and online gaming capabilities will yield significant mutual benefits. Following this deal we are well positioned as one of the leading B2B providers to the industry, and given our recently announced deals and ongoing activity with some of the leading online gaming operators, B2B will continue to be our main growth engine in the coming years. I am pleased that we continue to be awarded industry accolades for our innovation and our offering. In 2008 we retained, for the third successive year, eGaming Awards Casino operator of the Year endorsing our global reach and market-leading position in this category and were also awarded the aforementioned Bingo operator of the Year. We also picked up Leisure Report’s “Best Betting and Gaming Award” for a second year running and “Operator of the Year” beating strong competition from across the general leisure sector. Our approach and success in B2C marketing is one of 888’s key differentiators; where 888 innovates, many follow. Marketing was a key component to the success of our product launches for both 888sport and 888ladies. Strategic sport sponsorships and associations such as Sevilla FC, World Snooker Championship and the Shane Warne captaincy of the 888 poker team give the brand valuable high profile visibility. These initiatives, coupled with our ability to localise our marketing efforts across multiple channels, continue to support successfully our geographic expansion and generation of significant numbers of new players. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 9 16254888COM FRONT.indd 9 16254888COM FRONT.indd 9 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:46 08/04/2009 17:46 Chief Executive Offi cer’s Review continued We continue to recognise the importance of customer loyalty, as building strong relationships leads to people playing more games, more often, for more time. As product offerings are increasingly tailored to individual markets and segments, the CRM teams continued to run localised promotions throughout the year. Alongside front of house promotions, ongoing improvement in our support systems and services also helped to ensure that customers kept coming back to 888. During 2008 we also opened up further communication channels through which we are able to contact customers. The magazine ‘Eight’ remains popular amongst customers, and direct mail has now been augmented with SMS messaging. This, coupled with targeted segmentation of the customer base, now means players receive information of particular interest to them immediately. The delivery of promotions and tournament reminders in this way also helps to drive traffic online. People Our ability to recruit and retain high calibre employees is fundamental to our success and we continue to add talented people to our world-class team. It is not just that our people have a direct influence on the way our customers feel when they are playing our games — the integrity and expertise of our people is central to our strategy, execution and innovation. I would like to personally thank each and every employee for their support and hard work in the past year. Regulation The regulatory landscape within which we operate remains unstable in some regions. Whilst the European Court of Justice’s ruling in the Placanica case restated the importance of EU regulations to our industry, there have been some mixed messages from the EU Parliament. Generally, however, we view EU developments positively and we have seen a continued trend throughout the year of additional European jurisdictions embarking on a path to license and regulate online gaming, a route which we clearly welcome. As stated in our announcement dated 5 June 2007, we have initiated preliminary discussions with the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York relating to our activity in the US prior to the signing of the UIGEA. It is too early to assess any particular outcome of these discussions. Responsible Gaming We take our responsibilities as an international gaming operator extremely seriously. We continue to lead the market in our support of the prevention of under-age and problem gaming and promotion of responsible gaming. 2008 was no exception and was marked by the introduction of a unique product called the Observer. Observer was developed with Dr Mark Griffiths, a Chartered Psychologist and Professor of Gambling Studies at the Nottingham Trent University. A complex set of parameters including financial and behavioural data are used to flag up customers who might be at risk from becoming a problem gambler. This data is analysed and investigated and action taken in partnership with the customer to prevent or resolve a potential problem situation. Last year we launched a specialist website www.888responsible.com dedicated exclusively to responsible gaming. It is a comprehensive site covering all aspects of responsible gaming practices, dealing with problem gambling and preventing under-age gambling. In 2008 we also ran a specific campaign aimed at raising potential under-age gamers and parents’ awareness of under-age gambling issues. Our 2009 Focus We believe that the combined B2C/B2B model is an essential key to growing the business successfully in 2009, and therefore intend to continue focusing on both these lines of business. We have taken the decision to operate B2B as a separate business unit as our strategy for our B2B business is to become a leading provider of technology, operations and knowledge to new entrants to the market using our existing capabilities. The B2B business will be relaunched under a separate brand with its own sales force and we have appointed a separate Managing Director to the business. We have a very strong pipeline with more than 50 deals at various stages. We will expand organically but will also look to grow our footprint through the acquisition of B2B technology enablers to accelerate our growth. We have already announced a deal this year, signed in January, focusing on Continental Europe and expect to announce more deals during the year. Alongside the fast developing B2B business we will continue to focus on our B2C offerings with the introduction of a no download ‘games tab’, Live dealer in Europe and Bingo into a number of additional European markets including Spain. These developments, alongside further geographic expansion are expected to drive the growth of our B2C business even in these turbulent times. 10 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM FRONT.indd 10 16254888COM FRONT.indd 10 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:46 08/04/2009 17:46 Third party games integration continues and 2009 will see a major step as the platform will become a full multi-currency offering, allowing customers to play localised games that appeal to them, in their local language, in their local currency. This is expected to have a positive impact on both our B2C and B2B businesses. Outlook Our plans for 2009 will be to both grow our player base and maximise customers’ Life Time Value — for both us and our B2B partners — by offering new and innovative products. Our B2B business, which saw the first full year of operation in 2008, is already showing further growth in 2009. Our sustained performance in B2C will be achieved by a continued focus on customer needs and the growing attractiveness of our offering. Specifically, opening up our platform to integration with games created by other vendors, will continue delivering customers with ongoing innovation in 2009. The combination of our leading B2C business and our fast- growing B2B business gives us a very good base for growth in 2009 and beyond. The broader economic climate remains challenging as does the weakness of the European currencies, affecting our US$ reported revenues. However, whilst remaining cautious in our outlook, we are confident our customers will continue to enjoy our services and that the overall strength and resilience of the business will ensure we weather this turbulent period well. Just as we managed to grow market share after the industry was hit by the closure of the US market, we are confident we will outperform the market in these challenging times and continue to grow our business. Gigi Levy Chief Executive Offi cer Annual Report & Accounts 2008 11 16254888COM FRONT.indd 11 16254888COM FRONT.indd 11 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:46 08/04/2009 17:46 Enhanced Business Review “As a result of strong revenue growth, stable marketing to turnover ratio, maintaining cost control and better management of resources, EBITDA* increased by 22% to $56 million (2007: $46 million). EBITDA* margin increased slightly to 21.2% (2007: 21.0%).” * Adjusted, see further details below. Financial Summary Revenue Casino Poker Emerging offerings Total revenue Other operating income Total operating income Operating expenses2 Research and development expenses Selling and marketing expenses Administrative expenses3,4 EBITDA1,3,4 Finance income and exchange gains Depreciation and amortisation Profit before tax from continuing operations4 Financial Results General The Group achieved strong financial results in 2008 with TOI increasing by 21% to $263 million (2006: $217 million), EBITDA3,4 increasing by 23% to $56 million (2007: $46 million), Profit before tax4 increasing 6% to $49 million (2007: $46 million) and basic Earnings Per Share4 increasing 8% to 13.4¢ (2007: 12.4¢). The Group continued to be highly cash generative with Net cash generated from operating activities increasing 22% to $56 million (2007: $46 million) and its financial position remains strong as ever with cash and equivalents at year end at $98 million with no debt (2007: US$104 million). Turnover growth was particularly strong in Emerging Offerings, mainly Bingo, generating $45 million in 2008 (2007: $14 million). Year ended Year ended 31 December 31 December 20071 $ million 20081 $ million 135.1 77.2 44.5 256.8 5.7 262.5 77.3 27.4 80.2 22.0 55.7 0.3 (7.3) 48.6 118.1 80.8 14.4 213.4 3.6 216.9 59.1 23.5 70.9 17.9 45.5 6.1 (5.8) 45.8 Change % 14% (4%) 208% 20% 21% 23% 6% Excellent growth was achieved during the first nine months of 2008. In August, the Group reported record half year results and a seventh consecutive period of semi-annual growth with revenue from core operations boosted by the successful launch of 888ladies and 888sport. Growth continued until September when performance was impacted by the global economic crisis and extreme volatility in exchange rates. Our underlying business was not immune to these unprecedented conditions although our core business remained solid. 1 Rounded. 2 Excluding depreciation of US$5.5 million (2007: US$4.2 million) and amortisation of US$1.8 million (2007: US$ 1.6 million). 3 Excluding exchange rate loss of US$ 2.6 million (2007: gain of US$1.1 million). 4 Excluding share benefit charges of US$ 8.4 million (2007: US$7.8 million). 12 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM FRONT.indd 12 16254888COM FRONT.indd 12 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:46 08/04/2009 17:46 Geographical segmentation As the table below illustrates, in 2008 888’s turnover grew in all reported geographic markets led by 28% in Europe (excluding UK), followed by 23% in the Americas (excluding USA), 15% in the UK and 13% in the Rest of The World. TOI by geographical market: Total operating income UK Europe (excl. UK) Americas (excl. USA) Rest of World Total 1 Rounded. Year ended 31 December 20081 % share $ million Year ended 31 December 20071 % share $ million 2008 Growth % 107.4 115.0 22.1 17.9 262.6 41 44 8 7 93.0 90.1 18.0 15.9 100 216.9 43 42 8 7 100 15 28 23 13 21 As a result of the strong revenue growth during the year in Europe (excluding the UK), this region now represents 44% of 888’s TOI (2007: 42%) followed by the UK at 41%, Americas (excluding USA) at 8% and the Rest of the World at 7%. Expenses During 2008 the Group continued its investment in infrastructure as required to enable its B2B capabilities while continuing the development of its B2C offerings. Operating expenses, which include mainly salaries, chargebacks, returned e-cheques and payment service providers’ commissions, totalled $84.6 million (2007: $64.9 million) representing 32% of TOI (2007: 30%). Salaries and benefits, representing the largest component of operating expenses, increased by 30% to $40.3 million (2007: $31.0 million) reflecting the investment in infrastructure required to complete the build-up of our B2B line of business. Chargebacks increased during the year to $4.8 million in 2008 (2007: $2.8 million). However, when combined with expenses related to commisions paid to payment service providers, $15.3 million (2007: $13.4 million), the total ($20.1 million (2007: $16.2 million)) represents a stable ratio to TOI 7.6% (2007: 7.5%). This shift between these cost items is a result of the Group’s efficient implementation of processing optimisation aimed at increased processing volume and an increased approval rate while keeping overall costs stable. Finally, given that 2007 comparative figures represent less than seven months of Bingo activity, the comparable ratio reflects enhanced efficiency. Research and development expenses increased in 2008 by 17% to $27.4 million (2007: $23.5 million). This was primarily a result of necessary investment in the Group’s technological infrastructure and upgrading B2B capabilities to become a service provider to business partners and due to adverse currency movements during the first three quarters of the year. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 13 16254888COM FRONT.indd 13 16254888COM FRONT.indd 13 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Enhanced Business Review continued Profit and Earnings per share Profit before tax2 increased during the year 6% to $48.6 million (2007: $45.8 million) and Basic Earnings per share2 increased 8% to 13.4¢ in 2008 (2007: 12.4¢). Dividend The Group’s stated policy is that it intends generally making an annual dividend payment representing 50% of profits after tax and the policy would also reflect long-term earnings and cash flow potential of the Group. On 27 October 2008, the Company paid an interim dividend of 2.5 cents per share totalling $8.6 million (2007 interim dividend totalling $6.1 million). Given the strong financial performance in 2008, the Board recommends a final dividend of 2.9 cents per share. Cash flow The Group’s strong profitability during the year was matched by strong cash generation with net cash generated from operating activities reaching $56.4 million (2007: $46.2 million), representing 101% ratio to EBITDA2. During 2008, the Group made cash payments of $36.7 million (2007: $20.0 million) in investment activities — principally the final payment in respect of the 2007 bingo acquisition and the ongoing acquisition of technology equipment. In addition, the Group returned $25.6 million (2007: $36.2 million) in dividends to its shareholders consistent with its dividend policy. Balance Sheet The Group’s balance sheet remains strong. The Group has no debt, and retains ample liquid resources. The Group’s cash position as at 31 December 2008 was $98.4 million (31 December 2007: $104.3 million). This strong position allows the Group to benefit from suitable acquisition opportunities in the consolidating market. Balances owed to customers increased to $33.3 million (2007: $26.4 million) representing natural growth in the business. The Group maintains 100% cash reserves to cover immediate withdrawal of all customer deposits at will at any time. Marketing expenses during the year were $80.2 million (2007: $70.9 million), representing a 31% ratio to TOI (2007: 33%), and well within our target. Attracting valuable new customers at the right cost is a key driver of 888’s business profitability. In 2008, the Group continued to focus on attracting and retaining customers from selected segments aiming to maximise customer life time value and maximum return on marketing cost. During the year, 888’s marketing team recruited more than 246,000 new Casino and Poker first time depositors (“FTDs”) from more than 1.1 million new real money registrations with an average cost per acquisition (“CPA”) in 2008 of $232 (2007: $225). Administrative expenses1 increased by 22% to $22.0 million (2007: $17.9 million). The increase in Administrative expenses during the year is attributable mainly to a $2.6 million foreign exchange loss (2007: gain of $1.1 million) and a $2.2 million adverse currency effect within the salary component in this line item. Share benefit charges As part of 888’s commitment to invest in human capital, eligible management and employees receive equity awards under the 888 All Employee Share Plan (“Share Plan”). In 2008, the Group continued to award shares and options to employees under the Share Plan. The non-cash charge for 2008 was $8.4 million (2007: $7.8 million), comprising a $2.2 million charge relating to grants in the current year (2007: $1.8 million) and $6.2 million relating to grants made in the past. Finance Income With the Group continuing to generate and retain cash surpluses throughout the year, net interest income was $3.0 million (2007: $5.0 million), reflecting the sharp decrease in interest rates compared to previous years. EBITDA As a result of strong revenue growth, a stable marketing to turnover ratio, maintaining cost control and better management of resources, we increased EBITDA1 by 23% to $56 million (2007: $46 million). EBITDA1 margin increased slightly to 21.2% (2007: 21.0%). Taxation The tax charge for 2008 was $3.1 million (2007: $3.2 million) reflecting the Group’s efficient tax position. 1 Before share benefit charges of US$8.4 million (2007: US$7.8 million) and exchange rate losses of US$2.6 million (2007: gains of US$1.1 million). 2 Before share benefit charges of US$8.4 million (2007: US$7.8 million). 14 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM FRONT.indd 14 16254888COM FRONT.indd 14 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 888 Strategic Review 888 has addressed the evolving challenges of the competitive landscape in the e-gaming industry by transforming its business into two separate lines of business: “B2C” and “B2B”. 888’s growth strategy is to maintain its position as one of the leading operators in the industry, serving consumers worldwide under its various B2C brands (B2C), but also to become a leading provider of technology, operations and know-how to business partners, using its existing capabilities (B2B). Within its B2C division, 888 continues to promote its consumer targeted offering under its own brands including Casino, Poker, Sportsbetting, Bingo, Backgammon and Live Dealer. B2C From being a provider of Casino, Poker and Bingo in 2007, 888 is now a comprehensive provider of all gaming segments, including the four cornerstones of online gaming (Casino, Poker, Sportsbetting and Bingo) and additional secondary products (Backgammon and Live Dealer Casino). This expansion and diversification of our offering can be seen in the rapid growth in our “Emerging Offerings” segment (including Bingo, Sportsbook, Live Dealer Casino and Backgammon and B2B income) from US$14 million in 2007 to US$45 million in 2008. Our offerings have become more geographically diverse and have been complemented by product expansion in existing territories. We have invested in two completely new regions — South-East Asia and South America. We introduced localised products appealing directly to Asian consumers where consumers’ tastes are quite different to our traditional markets in the UK and Continental Europe. South America showed healthy growth and is a region where poker is a popular pastime. For the first time, 888 has also expanded into Eastern Europe and has the infrastructure in place for a more aggressive 2009. Our offerings have been translated into new languages: Russian, Polish, Romanian, Latvian, Estonian, Lithuanian, Hungarian and Bulgarian. We have also established local relationships and partnerships with business development and marketing firms to allow us to maximize our potential in these jurisdictions. This market-leading offering and expansion strategy will continue to be the foundation of our business. Marketing 2008 was a very busy and highly successful year for 888’s industry leading marketing activities. We believe that marketing is a key component in the success of both of our newly launched products, 888sport and 888ladies. This was recognised by the industry magazine, eGaming Review, which presented 888ladies with its prestigious Bingo Operator of the Year Award. 888 was also named the magazine’s Casino of the Year for the third successive year and picked up the “Land Links Partnership of the Year” award, given to the operator which forged ahead with bridging the gap between offline and online in the most innovative way during 2008. Winning three eGaming Awards, in addition to being nominated in an industry-leading nine different categories, yet again confirmed 888’s position as an industry leader. In addition to the eGaming Awards, 888 also won Leisure Report’s “Best Betting & Gaming Award” for 2008 for the second successive year as well as its “Operator of the Year” Award, a category in which 888 beat strong opposition from not only the gaming sector but the leisure industry as a whole. Another example of 888’s innovation, its in-house customer magazine “Eight” was awarded the influential “Most Effective Membership” title at the 2008 Association of Publishing Agencies (APA) Effectiveness Awards. The award was given by the APA in the UK and is one of the most coveted prizes for an in-house publication. The magazine was mailed to all of the Group’s casino and poker customers in the UK and contains lifestyle features and gaming content, seeking to further cement the relationship between 888 and its players. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 15 16254888COM FRONT.indd 15 16254888COM FRONT.indd 15 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Enhanced Business Review continued Branding 888’s brand awareness continues to be one of its key strengths within the sector. The ‘Enjoy the Game’ tagline remains one of the most well-known phrases in the gaming industry and this has been heightened by use across Europe within the sportsbook product and through extended media coverage over the last year via its sports sponsorships, partnerships and associations. Sports sponsorships, partnerships and associations 888 has a long history of ground breaking, innovative sports sponsorships across various fields and geographies including football, snooker, speedway motorcycle racing and darts to name a few. The 888.com World Snooker Championship, the highlight of the snooker year and one of the major events in the British sporting calendar, took place in April 2008, at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield. The event was televised for nearly three weeks by the BBC, resulting in over 140 hours of primetime 888sport branding on every player’s waistcoat and on all advertising boards in the Crucible arena. In addition, 888 became the official partner of the world’s number one ranked player and current World Champion, Ronnie O’Sullivan. This partnership enabled us to maximise our investment in the 2008 888.com World Snooker Championship creating increased media coverage and generating a significant number of first time depositors (FTDs) within the recently launched 888sport as well as increasing turnover figures. 888 also sponsored former world snooker champion John Higgins who over the last twelve months played in a number of online Poker tournaments and attended a number of media interviews. 888 also offered those at the venue an opportunity to join 888sport at the event itself and to place wagers on the snooker over the three week period which proved a succesful initiative. Cricketer Shane Warne, one of the world’s most recognisable sporting stars, was also employed by 888 in the last twelve months as an ambassador. He captained the 888 poker team in both Australia and the United Kingdom. Shane competed in the World Series, the European World Series, the Aussie Millions and the 888.com Open, always wearing 888.com branded clothing generating notable media coverage wherever he went, including a significant number of national and International television, radio and press interviews. Our shirt sponsorship with one of Spain’s biggest football clubs, Sevilla FC, has also seen 888 achieve a significant amount of global media exposure, as Seville competed in tournaments against high profile European football teams. 888’s partnership with Sevilla is another in a line of sports sponsorships the Group has engaged in to promote the brand, and to generate FTDs. In Germany, sponsorship of former star football player Thomas Brodric has seen him endorse and compete in a number of poker tournaments, whilst in Australia 888 has sponsored the world famous former boxer and trainer Jeff Fenech in a number of high profile international poker tournaments during 2008. Recognising the success of these partnerships, 888 was awarded the eGaming Awards 2008 “Land-links Partnership of the Year” with the judges noting “888’s link-ups were innovative and well-timed, with impressive results”. The Future We are set to see even more exposure through our various sponsorships and associations throughout 2009. With the Ashes set to captivate the hearts and minds of two nations, our continued association with Shane Warne during this period will ensure that 888 receives more than its fair share of branding. We plan to grow even bigger, do even better, and conquer even more horizons. We will still be 888. We will still urge customers to ‘enjoy the game’, but we will do it in a bigger and better way than ever before. Customer relationship management The Group continues to recognise the importance of customer loyalty, as building strong relationships leads to people playing more games, more often, for more time. The Customer Relationship Management (‘CRM’) team aims to ensure that 888 customers feel valued and continue to enjoy the game. The CRM team is split into two departments, one focusing on the Group’s broader market customer base and the other on VIP customers. 16 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM FRONT.indd 16 16254888COM FRONT.indd 16 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 In order to reinforce loyalty, and ultimately increase customer spend, a number of initiatives were undertaken in 2008. Key to CRM is giving people the right messages at the most opportune times — successfully segmenting customers in order to provide them with opportunities that appeal to them directly. The Group’s commitment to localisation helps strengthen relationships with customers and provides an opportunity for the CRM team. As our product offerings become increasingly tailored to individual markets, the CRM team developed and implemented many promotions across geographic areas during the year. Alongside the eye-catching front of house promotions, improvements in back room support also help to ensure that customers keep coming back to 888. Improvements in analytical processing in 2008 have helped to identify customers struggling with technical issues; for example, customers having difficulties depositing money are identified and contacted personally within ten minutes. 2008 has also seen the opening of further communication channels through which the Group is able to contact customers. The magazine ‘Eight’ remains popular amongst customers, and direct mail has now been augmented with SMS messaging — further personalising the customer relationship. SMS, coupled with targeted segmentation of the customer base helps players now receive information of immediate interest to them, immediately. Promotions and tournament reminders being delivered in this way also help to drive traffic online. The Group’s market-leading VIP department builds real one-on-one relationships with VIPs so that 888 remains their online gaming operator of choice. VIP Account Managers Representatives are available in ten languages to provide the highest level of personal support. Our VIP program was expanded in 2008 to offer this personal service across the Group’s gaming portfolio. The launch of 888ladies was followed by the introduction of Gold Ladies, and VIP services were introduced for Pacific Poker and 888sport customers. VIP services are set to roll out across further areas of the 888 portfolio throughout 2009. Alongside hands-on account management, relationships with VIPs are strengthened through exclusive promotions and offline events. In 2008, over 80 promotions were run for VIPs, with various prizes as well as large bonuses. As a means to further personalising interaction between VIPs and 888, 40 different offline events were held in nine different countries, all personally hosted by an 888 VIP Account Manager. Search and Web Optimisation Technologies (“SWOT”) 888’s SWOT team utilise proprietary techniques developed over almost a decade designed to optimise customer recruitment. SWOT is much more than traditional simple search engine optimisation. Successful use of SWOT helped to exploit the opportunity provided by the launch of 888ladies and 888sport to increase the acquisition of players through these new channels, especially in the United Kingdom. Increasing search engine visibility also helped drive player acquisition success in other markets worldwide, notably Canada and the Scandinavian countries. The Group will continue to focus on SWOT in order to maximise the impact of the product offering, and new launches in 2009 will bring further customer acquisition opportunities. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 17 16254888COM FRONT.indd 17 16254888COM FRONT.indd 17 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Enhanced Business Review continued Our Offering 888’s core product offerings (casino, poker, bingo and, sport) together with its secondary offerings, (Live Dealer and Backgammon) are available to end customers under 888’s various B2C brands and also through carefully selected strategic B2B partners where 888 acts a service provider including Sportech — UK, Rileys — UK, Tower Torneos — Latin America, Lucky Ace — Europe and Poker Dome — Australia. Casino 888’s primary online Casino brand, Casino on Net, had a successful year in 2008 — building on its strengths and continuing to innovate in order to retain its position as the leading online Casino in the world. Continued improvements to the customer experience coupled with the addition of popular new games helped driving revenue levels, with TOI from Casino increasing 15% in 2008 to US$139 million. During 2008 the Group focused on the integration of many new games, whilst maintaining its core propositions of trust and simplicity alongside first-class customer service. 888’s strategy is to create a 360 degree gaming ecosystem, offering best in class casino and soft games, ‘blockbusters’ being built in house and a wide choice of games introduced through integration ensuring that the site stays fresh and 888 remains a one stop shop for all casino and gaming requirements. Through providing customers with a large variety of choice and entertainment, in the localised formats that appeal most to them, 888 continues to expand its target audience. As 888’s gaming arena becomes broader through the continued internal development of sophisticated games and the integration of external content, the Group has sought to seek partners that can keep adding novelty to the offering. Throughout 2008, 888 carefully selected ‘best-of-breed’ partners to provide these innovative and attractive additional games. A total of 22 new games have been integrated to date onto the 888 platform and the Group continues to work to add further exciting games to complement its current offering. In addition to increasing the range and quality of games on offer through the integration of new games, the Group continues to improve its offering and provide customers with up-to-date and relevant offerings to match their gaming needs. The Live Dealer Casino has continued to be popular, and additional Video Slot games were developed in-house throughout the course of the year. Often these games would be themed around a major worldwide event such as the Olympic Games and European Football Championships, helping to drive customers regularly back to the site in the knowledge that there will be new and innovative content. A revamp of the Casino lobby helped to keep a cutting edge look and feel of the site and changes to the ‘no download’ offering helped to make it easier for new users to begin playing as 888 customers. Additional games were added to the ‘no download’ offering, in five different languages and further improvements are planned for 2009. In order to expand the worldwide appeal of the offering, as well as the games being targeted for specific regions and demographics so are the languages and currencies in which they can be played. Casino on Net is now available in 14 different languages, and 2009 will see the Group take a major step as the platform will become a fully multi-currency offering, allowing customers to play localised games that appeal to them in their local language and currency. 18 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM FRONT.indd 18 16254888COM FRONT.indd 18 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 These constant improvements and our refusal to rest on our laurels have helped the Casino to maintain its position as the number one online Casino, a fact recognised as the Group was proud to be awarded the prestigious eGaming Awards 2008 Casino Operator of the Year. The judges noted that “888 continues its global reach and market leading position in this category, retaining the title of Casino Operator of the Year”. Casino KPIs Year Quarter 2007* 2008* 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 Total Revenue* (US$’000) Active Customers Total Revenue per Active Customer (US$) 25,952 70,769 367 27,900 72,362 386 28,992 72,847 398 35,276 73,737 478 35,015 77,370 453 35,459 77,837 456 34,350 77,949 441 30,245 72,762 416 * Total Revenue figures rounded. 888 enjoyed a steady level of revenues and active customer Casino participation in 2008, until a disappointing Q4. Due to the prolonged and deepening economic downturn, unprecedented challenging trading conditions were experienced following the end of the summer holiday season. Active customers played slightly less and the strengthening US$ exacerbated the impact on reported US$ denominated revenues. making it the largest single event of its kind offered to the non-US market. Traffic was driven to the site as qualifiers were played out exclusively through Pacific Poker, with daily and weekly online tournaments being run, customised to match 888’s geographic customer base profiles. The qualifiers ended with an online final in April deciding the eight participants to go forward to the 888 branded offline final held in Peralada, Spain. Poker The Group has continued to further the global reach of its Poker operations and as a result the market share of its poker network, among networks that do not accept US players, has increased during 2008. 2008 saw an expansion in Pacific Poker’s offering with the launching of localised websites in 11 new languages: Russian, Polish, Czech, Bulgarian, Hungarian, Romanian, Lithuanian, Latvian, Estonian, Greek and Japanese. The Group offers a global Poker room in which customers can find the game of their choice, at the time of their choice, in the language of their choice. 888 has continued to take steps to enrich the user experience. Features were introduced across the year to maintain customers’ engagement, including the addition of advanced community tools and localized content, while ongoing promotions and regular big-money events provided incentives for players to continue to play regularly. The regular Pacific Poker events were bolstered in 2008 through the introduction of the World Poker Crown. The WPC had a guaranteed minimum prize pool of US$3 million Improvements to the Poker platform allowed the Group to make significant advancements in monetising players, with the unification of the popular ‘Demo’ mode into the real money environment which helped customers transfer seamlessly from demo to real money play. System updates also allow 888’s customer relationship managers to monitor individual customers’ playing habits and tailor marketing activities accordingly, providing players with the opportunities that will most appeal to them. As 888 changes into a one stop shop for all online gaming entertainment needs, cross-selling opportunities are further exploited. The launch of 888’s sportsbetting platform, 888sport, was followed quickly by the introduction of Sport in Poker, providing customers with the opportunity to play across different 888 products using a single login and a unified wallet. The Group will continue to ensure that customers have the best possible gaming experience, and there will be a number of customer facing improvements carried out during 2009. The Pacific Poker site will be given a new look and feel, with additional products and poker side bets enhancing the customer experience of the Poker room. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 19 16254888COM FRONT.indd 19 16254888COM FRONT.indd 19 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Enhanced Business Review continued Poker KPIs Year Quarter Total Revenue (US$’000) Active Customers Total Revenue per Active Customer (US$) * Total Revenue figures rounded. 2007* 2008* 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 19,890 20,918 16,940 168,066 166,772 168,105 170,401 170,988 169,898 169,607 158,557 107 18,590 21,419 19,756 21,903 18,653 111 128 110 116 124 119 126 Levels of poker active players and revenue held up well until the last quarter, 888 enjoyed steady levels of active customer Poker participation and revenue in 2008 until a disappointing Q4. Due to the prolonged and deepening economic downturn, unprecedented challenging trading conditions were experienced following the end of the summer holiday season. Active customers played slightly less and volatile adverse foreign exchange movements exacerbated the effect on US$ denominated revenues. Combined Casino and Poker KPIs As more customers continue to migrate onto the Group’s unified offering, the distinction between Casino and Poker revenue becomes more and more difficult. As a result, the Group reports it’s KPIs for the combined Casino and Poker activity in the table above. Year Quarter 2007* 2008* 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 Total Revenue (US$’000) Active Customers Total Revenue per Active Customer (US$) * Total Revenue figures rounded. 46,870 47,790 47,185 205,907 208,876 209,811 209,918 213,115 214,725 216,727 201,119 235 47,582 56,695 56,918 55,215 53,003 227 229 228 267 257 245 270 Bingo Following the acquisition of the Bingo business in 2007 which enabled 888 to enter the bingo arena as a major white label network operator, February 2008 saw a milestone in the evolution of 888’s bingo offering — the launch of the new 888 Bingo network, 888ladies. The site was positioned to appeal to a whole new market for the Group and has been a huge success. A high profile television advertising campaign starring Vic Reeves, aligned with positive customer experiences, helped to quickly establish the network with over 2,500 daily active players and over 30,000 real money players. Regular promotions give customers a reason to return, and blogs and chat rooms help to personalise relationships. Editorial capabilities have also been developed both in regards to topic variety and content and an increased number of new editorials offered to customers on a daily basis. The Group has continued to strengthen the community feel of the site, a feeling engendered through a combination of friendly, welcoming moderators who follow customers throughout their stay within 888’s bingo rooms, and a website that includes a variety of interaction opportunities, chat tools and venues. There are 10 bingo rooms, four of which are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, which offer a number of bingo variants. Customers can play 75/90 ball bingo and buy tickets for big cash games, including an £8,888 jackpot once a month. 888ladies is not simply an online bingo room, and the Group has worked to crystallise its position as a leading entertainment and content destination for women, enhancing customer satisfaction and retention levels, through providing a dynamic, surprising and inclusive online experience. 888’s community platform allows customer retention teams to chat, interact with customers and observe their behaviour, and when combined with the latest technology developments, including RSS feeds and WEB 2.0 widgets, 888 is able to offer customers what they want and truly personalise their experience. 888ladies links what people read, consume and win, ranging from personalised online horoscopes, bonuses and invitations to play on birthdays and lucky days, to games themed after the brands 888’s customers care the most about, such as their favourite TV show or celebrity. The Group was proud to be awarded 20 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM FRONT.indd 20 16254888COM FRONT.indd 20 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Bingo Operator of the Year at the eGaming Awards 2008 recognising the success of the offering. In 2009 the Group will look to expand the bingo platform globally. We aim to establish a presence in Continental European countries by the end of the year. We will also be launching new networks and skins in additional languages and with localised multi-currency support. Enhanced customer features will also ensure that the 888 bingo offering remains best of breed. Sportsbetting The launch of a sports betting platform in March was a significant milestone for the Group. Following the introduction of 888sport, the Group became a comprehensive provider of all gaming segments. The international launch reinforced 888’s strategy of creating a large community of people consuming entertainment content online. Sportsbetting is also customer acquisition and retention tool and enables 888 to cross-sell from its existing products. 888sport is an international sports betting offering, with editorial content and sports and betting selections, as well as live in-running betting and coverage of a large number of sports including: UK and Irish horseracing, UK, European and international football, Greyhound racing, Golf, Cricket, Rugby, Tennis, Novelty events such as Big Brother, and many more. 888sport is offered in seven markets with fully tailored and localised language-specific offerings in all areas allowing customers to bet on events of relevance to them in the currency of their choice. Over the course of the year 888sport was rolled out in a further four countries. The offering was developed in conjunction with Blue Square, one of the most popular and well-established sportsbooks in the UK. As a result of the partnership 888 is able to rely on Blue Square’s experience in trading and risk management to reduce the risks associated with this business, allowing the Group to concentrate on fulfilling its strategy of cross-selling its sports betting services to its existing customer base whilst leveraging its robust multi-channel marketing engines to acquire new sportsbook customers globally. The offering was combined with a high profile advertising campaign targeting new customers around specific events ranging from Euro 2008 and the Olympics to major horse races such as the Cheltenham Festival and the Grand National, with localised campaigns and promotions coinciding with the start of local football leagues. Existing sport related sponsorships such as Seville football club and the 888 World Snooker Championship also helped to build the awareness of the 888sport brand. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 21 16254888COM FRONT.indd 21 16254888COM FRONT.indd 21 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Enhanced Business Review continued The Group sees further opportunities in sportsbetting. The launch of an improved ‘in play’ application taking in a wider variety of live events, the addition of new content and statistics and the introduction of soft games will help to further improve the player experience. 2009 will also see the expansion of the sport offering through further expansion of 888sport into key territories and white label agreements. E-Payments Improvements to the E-Payments offering played a significant role in underpinning some of 888’s key strategic initiatives in 2008, helping to personalise the customer experience and localise the offering. The focus on attractive front of house options is matched by 888’s state-of-the-art payments processing system, which offers both cutting-edge back office functionality and an advanced cashier interface. The cashier user interface was significantly upgraded this year to include the implementation of Live Person interactive chat, which is proactively initiated by the support team. This gives customers the opportunity to get live help from an 888 agent, assisting in improving 888 customers’ playing and depositing experience whilst at the same time increasing cash conversions. When customers sign up with 888 they can deposit using a range of payment options tailored to suit their local market based on their physical location, from which they can choose their preferred payment method. As a truly global provider of gaming entertainment, it is important that 888 offers customers the games relevant to them, in their local language, with the choice of their preferred payment method. This was illustrated by the roll-out of 888sport, which is now offered in seven markets, each in the local language, and all in the local currency. A multi-currency bonus feature was also added across the service offering. Constant improvements in payment processing have seen a total of 11 new languages added to the client interface, improving penetration in untapped and emerging gaming markets. 888 will continue to add variety of localised payment methods offered worldwide for the benefit of customers. 2009 will see further improvements to 888’s payment systems, starting in the first quarter with the now completed integration of PayPal, the world’s best known eWallet, into the 888 cashier for countries where PayPal may be sued for gaming payments. The Group will also implement a new multi-functional cashout client with additional cashout methods, significantly increasing customers’ ability to receive their winnings easily and efficiently while greatly reducing the number of chargebacks and the risk of fraudulent transactions. This will improve the user experience as well as further streamline and enhance the cashout process for customers. B2B 888 has always been at the forefront of developments in the Internet gaming industry. A pioneer and leader in the B2C industry, 888 made the strategic decision in 2007 to lead the way in becoming the largest B2C operator to move into the B2B arena. Capitalising on its experiences as a B2C operator for well over a decade, 888 is uniquely positioned to work with carefully selected strategic partners who are either aiming to monetise their existing database, brand loyalty and media assets or looking to enhance their existing online gaming operations. 888 has already secured a number of high profile agreements which highlight both the potential of this strategic direction and 888’s unique position as a leading operator offering a full service model in the B2B field. 22 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM FRONT.indd 22 16254888COM FRONT.indd 22 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 This B2B business move began in 2007 with agreements with Riley’s, Tower Torneos and Lucky Ace. 2008 has seen an acceleration in B2B development with several more deals in Western, Central and Eastern Europe, including the groundbreaking partnership with the UK Football Pools (Sportech Plc) highlighting the potential for 888 in this area. The development and growth of the B2B business is an integral part of the 888’s growth strategy for 2009 and beyond. It was the signing in June 2008 of a strategic partnership with Sportech that saw a step-change in 888’s B2B activities, as 888 started providing a full managed service including all technology, operations and marketing of Sportech’s leading Littlewoods brand. 888 provides Littlewoods with a full turnkey solution including its market-leading gaming and back-end software, customer support and payments processing services. 888 also provides advanced marketing services to Littlewoods marketing, brand and customer base, helping to extend the reach of Littlewoods’ business. This agreement represented the full evolution of 888’s B2B offering — Total Gaming Services — and is a milestone agreement. Internal restructuring As part of a restructuring of the 888 team to facilitate the growth in 888’s B2B model, 888 has appointed a dedicated B2B Managing Director and recruited a specialist B2B sales and marketing team, the ideal platform for delivering new deals in 2009. As the B2B business expands, it has become of increasing commercial importance to have a clear division from 888’s B2C business. Accordingly, 888 is in the process of selecting and developing a new brand under which to market its B2B business, Whilst promoting the strengths of 888’s core knowledge and experience as an operator, this move clearly differentiates the B2B business as a separate and distinct part of the 888 Group. A marketing strategy is currently being devised to roll out this new B2B brand and will be designed to enhance visibility amongst the media and target markets of 888’s growing B2B business. Activities will include advertising and PR in core trade and business magazines, key speaker positions and trade stands at leading conferences and exhibitions and sponsorship of industry events. ‘Total Gaming Services’ is the strapline that will underpin the unique positioning in the market for 888’s B2B business. This reflects the opportunity for clients to not only benefit from 888’s decade of experience in technology and operations but also utilise the advanced marketing services, through the provision of offline/online marketing, management of affiliates, SEO, CRM and business analytics. In addition to developing the B2B team, 888 has also restructured the rest of its Group in order to create independent departments in such areas as Research & Development and Customer Care, focusing separately on both the B2B and B2C businesses. This move enabled 888 to scale the service to the growing requirements of its B2B clients and helped the B2B business in meeting existing project delivery timescales, increasing the speed to market for new clients and maximising profitability of the business. This restructuring augmented the independent B2B business that was structured as a separate business unit with several departments in it, focused entirely on B2B partners: Sales & Business Development, Programs & Integrations, Client executive unit, Client marketing & Operations, B2B Marketing and PR and B2B Finance. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 23 16254888COM FRONT.indd 23 16254888COM FRONT.indd 23 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Enhanced Business Review continued New partners 888 sees three main sources of new B2B partners: (i) existing online gaming operators searching for additions to their existing suite of gaming products or to replace entirely their current software suppliers, (ii) media companies and land-based casinos looking to monetise their brands; and (iii) lottery companies seeking experienced online gaming partners, with a heritage of successful business delivery and strong responsible gaming systems and capabilities, that can facilitate a smooth transition from leadership in land-based gaming to significant market-share holding and combat the threat of competition. New entrants to the online gaming market require a technology platform to work with, expertise in setting up operations and, above all, knowledge of how to leverage their assets and target the gaming consumer. 888’s experience through operating its own B2C businesses makes it well positioned to partner with these new entrants to mutual advantage. Bingo The successful acquisition of Globalcom in May 2007 gave the Group a perfect springboard to enter into the B2B bingo arena, providing software, customer support and payment processing to some of the premium Bingo partners in the UK. Utilising these acquired foundations, 888 is also a leading player in bingo B2B, providing solutions to business partners operating their own networks and other third party sites. 888 powers some of the most prominent players in the bingo market such as Foxy Bingo, Mirror Bingo, Think Bingo, Cheeky Bingo, Bingo Scotland and Wink Bingo. 888 now has a white label network of more than 45 online bingo sites or “skins” including bingoballroom.com, poshbingo.com, bingofabulous.com and twofatladies.co.uk. 888 plans to utilise its B2B platform to tap into new growth markets. A perfect example of the implementation of this strategy was the launch of a localised Spanish Bingo offering in 2008. Poker 888’s B2B business offers a total gaming service solution for white label Poker operators with a wide range of tournaments, multi-language capabilities and the most popular games. New developments will include upgrading the existing poker client to create a new and improved player experience, designed to get players to the right tables faster and playing more. Significant white label agreements have been launched with Poker Dome (Australia), Littlewoods (UK) and Lucky Ace (Europe), all of whom have benefited from 888’s CRM expertise in reducing churn rate, activating dormant accounts and delivering increased returns. The rapid development of new skins will further bolster activity enabling the network to grow and provide greater liquidity as new partners are integrated in 2009. 24 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM FRONT.indd 24 16254888COM FRONT.indd 24 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 The B2B team is currently working on a strong transaction pipeline for 2009 with a number of deals at various stages, across a variety of game offerings. 2009 will mark a significant step forward in the development of the B2B business making an increased contribution to the profitability of the Group. The Group believes that the B2B business will provide a significant portion of total revenues and profits by the financial year 2010. Technological Infrastructure 888’s technological strength has been its ability to develop and manage all aspects of its operations in-house, including software development. This enabled 888 to produce a distinctive product and brand feel for its B2C offering, and to exercise flexibility in relation to its online products and services, implement efficiency in customer support and maximise the security of its system architecture. 888’s information technology platform, hosted in Gibraltar, consists of over 700 production and over 900 development servers and uses a fully integrated proprietary software infrastructure developed in-house. 888’s information technology infrastructure handles over two million visitors a day to its various websites with over 30,000 customers playing concurrently at peak times. Substantial investment has been, and continues to be, made in 888’s choice of technology, its architecture design, planning systems and implementation. The system architecture has been designed and built with security, resilience and scalability as a priority, which has underpinned the Group’s growth in recent years. 888 has invested millions of US dollars to enhance its technology platform using best-of-breed approach, implementing solutions from the leading vendors (Cisco, HP, EMC, CA, VMware etc.) 888 is also a recipient of the TRUSTe Web Privacy Seal of approval for all its websites and online gaming activities. TRUSTe runs the world’s largest privacy seal program, with more than 2,400 websites certified and reflects 888’s commitments to client privacy. In 2007, 888 opened up its technological platform in order to become a B2B provider and enable easy integration with games from other providers. This focused on a single point of integration to 888’s platform, involved a number of infrastructure challenges and required technological advancements in 888’s back-office capabilities. In order to facilitate the addition of third-party games and to complement 888’s own core games with carefully selected ‘best-of-breed’ partners, an Integration Platform was developed and expanded during 2008. The Integration Platform allows the integration of new third party games by multiple vendors, especially new entrants to the markets who require a technology platform for games and back office facilities. This industry-leading integration infrastructure enables third party game providers to swiftly connect into 888’s gaming environment, wallet, cashier and customer support systems. The almost turnkey addition of these games, often with content to appeal to localised audiences, has enabled 888 to introduce rapidly a diversified and localised offering to existing and new players worldwide. In total, 22 new games were integrated onto the 888 platform across 2008, and the Group has now access to over 1,000 new games from over 10 suppliers to complement its wider offering. In 2008 we also introduced a new financial transactions system enabling optimization as well as localization and customization of financial transaction processing based on customer preferences, risk and cost considerations. We continue to invest in software development which takes place in our state-of-the-art Research, Development and Marketing centre in a suburb of Tel Aviv supported by our recently added lower cost development location in Eastern Europe. This investment has enabled 888 to add innovative slot machines to the existing home-grown offering of casino, poker and backgammon games. 2008 also saw multiple new releases of Poker, Casino and Bingo, as well as a complete new offering — Sports Betting, significantly enhancing 888’s offering. Customer Support and Service 888 remains committed to its goal of being the market leader in the global online gaming industry, including in respect of customer satisfaction. Our customer service operation is staffed by dedicated teams of highly trained in-house customer support representatives providing the highest levels of service and support for each of the Group’s brands and White Labels. In 2008 we continued to invest in our support infrastructure and notably expanded our language portfolio. We offer first- class customer support via email and telephone, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to customers around the world in 14 different languages. Our Live Chat service is now offered in four languages. In 2008 we also launched 888sport supported in four languages and expanded Pacific Poker’s Offering to 11 new languages. The Group has invested in industry-leading technology provided by “RightNow Technologies” to help support its online customer experience initiatives. This investment allowed 888 to reduce its operational expenditure, effectively manage its resources and gain valuable insight into its customers’ needs and preferences. Excellent customer service continues to be a central tenet of the Company’s offering. The ongoing dialogue with clients is maintained by Customer Relationship Management teams in two dedicated contact centres, located in Gibraltar and Antigua. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 25 16254888COM FRONT.indd 25 16254888COM FRONT.indd 25 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Enhanced Business Review continued The main Gibraltar contact centre focuses on providing support for our principal markets in Europe, Asia/Pacific and Latin America, while the Antiguan contact centre focused on supporting our English-speaking markets in Europe, Asia Pacific and Canada. Customer Satisfaction We continuously monitor customer satisfaction by requesting and analysing real-time feedback. In 2008, we again conducted a comprehensive survey to benchmark 888’s service level within our primary markets. Expert teams initiate outbound interaction with new and existing customers who may experience issues depositing into their respective 888 accounts. Our outbound teams proactively contact selected populations with the aim to update customers about special offers, new products and to reactivate customers that have become inactive. During 2008, we introduced a new proactive chat application (provided by “LivePerson”) with much success. We also expanded those activities for more brands, White Labels and languages. 888 also expanded available contact channels by offering the first ever Promotion sent via SMS (targeting Casino and Bingo players). The contact centres continue to play a vital role in the successful launch of 888’s strategic partnerships such as LuckyAce, Poker Dome and Littlewoods. The Support teams aim to close the majority of issues during the first contact as demonstrated in the customer performance figures attained in 2008: Casino in English l 97.6% of all phone calls are answered within, 25 seconds l 99.0% of all emails are replied to within 24 hours l 96.5% of all chats are answered within, 30 seconds Poker in English l 97.7% of all calls are answered within, 25 seconds l 98.5% of all emails are replied to within 24 hours l 95.2% of all chats are answered within, 35 seconds Bingo in English l 94.8% of all calls are answered within, 25 seconds l 90.5% of all emails are replied to within 24 hours l A total of 80,046 chats were answered within the customary highest service level (SLA) Respondents accredited their highest rating to the level of professionalism of our representatives and when compared to previous studies, the results show a considerable increase in satisfaction, most notably for our important German market. l Casino players rated the level of professionalism of our representatives at 4.20 (out of 5) l Poker players rated the level of professionalism of our representatives at 4.10 (out of 5) l German players rated their overall satisfaction with 888’s customer support at 3.91 in 2007 and in 2008 rated their overall satisfaction at an impressive 4.17 (out of 5) l Casino players rated their overall satisfaction with the service received at 3.94 (out of 5) l Poker players rated their overall satisfaction with the service received at 3.74 (out of 5) l Response time ratings were 4.10 and 4.00 for Casino and Poker respectively (out of 5) 888’s unparalleled customer service and our leadership in the e-gaming industry have been repeatedly recognised and we were honoured to be named ‘Best Betting & Gaming Company 2008’ at the Leisure Report Awards. A vital component in maintaining and exceeding customer expectations is our ability to access each client’s full and complete history in real time, thus optimising customer interactions on all levels. Customer contacts are strictly monitored to ensure quality and parity. 26 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM FRONT.indd 26 16254888COM FRONT.indd 26 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 888’s proprietary back-office application is probably the most advanced application of its kind in the industry and functions as the backbone of our entire business operation. Data from various divisions is integrated and streamlined into a single point of reference and gives representatives from every department — Customer Support, VIP, Risk Management, Business Production and Finance — the tool to provide superior assistance to customers, regardless of the department a query is directed to. Responsible Gaming The Group believes that its primary responsibility is to provide the best online gaming entertainment to its customers. However, the Group acknowledges the potential danger that its games may pose for a small minority of people and it strives to reach excellence in its responsible gaming policy and ethical conduct. 888 is devoted to promoting a responsible gaming culture within the organisation. The aim is to raise awareness through education and to continuously provide staff with tools and training necessary to ensure a responsible gaming environment. We continuously monitor our policies and generate new innovative ways to foster caring and ethical gaming, and above all to make certain our customers are safe. Responsible gaming is a key feature of our business strategy, reflecting the seriousness we attach to the issue and the value we attribute to “caring” within the organisation. Training The Group has developed a global training programme whereby employees receive training on overall awareness of the Group’s commitment and policies on responsible gaming and more specific and detailed knowledge depending on their specific business role. During the year we developed a further in-depth second level specialized training day in association with Gamcare for those employees whose role may possibly lead them to encounter problem gamers and those that handle difficult cases. One of the first of its kind in the industry, it covered topics such as: the cycle of problem gambling, psychology and temperament of problem gamblers, and dealing with reactions. We intend to repeat this specialized training in 2009. Protecting Customers The Group carries a Gamcare certification. Gamcare is the leading authority on the provision of counselling, advice and practical help in addressing the social impact of gambling in the UK. The certification recognises gaming businesses that have successfully implemented robust policies and practices of social responsibility and player protection. As a responsible, regulated gaming organisation, we also comply with all guidelines published by our regulator in Gibraltar and eCOGRA, a non-profit, independent, regulatory body based in the UK. eCOGRA ensures that approved online casinos are properly and transparently monitored to provide player protection. Protecting Minors Under-age gambling on our sites is prohibited and the Group takes the matter of under-age gaming extremely seriously. Our offerings are not designed to attract minors. In compliance with our licensing obligations, we proactively discourage persons under the age of 18 who attempt to play on any of our sites. We use sophisticated verification systems to identify and track minors who log in to our software, and we make every effort to prevent them from playing. We have trained staff to be highly sensitive to the possibility of under-age gambling. Whenever an account is suspected of belonging to an under-age customer, it is suspended until a full investigation has been carried out. The Group’s dedicated responsible gaming website 888responsible.com launched a new campaign in 2008 aimed at raising potential under-age gaming and parents’ awareness to the issue of under-age gambling. It includes an educational movie that tells the story of a mother who takes control of her under-age gambling son, an extreme situation which 888, as a Company that cares for its clients, will do everything in its power to help prevent. The Group also adheres to the stringent rules concerning under-age gambling established by the Interactive Gaming Council (IGC), of which 888 is a member. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 27 16254888COM FRONT.indd 27 16254888COM FRONT.indd 27 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Enhanced Business Review continued Raising Awareness and Education Our specialist website www.888responsible.com is dedicated exclusively to responsible gaming. It is a comprehensive site covering all aspects of responsible gaming practices, dealing with problem gambling and preventing under-age gambling. In 2008 we ran a specific campaign aimed at raising potential under-age gaming and parents’ awareness of the issue of under-age gambling. A direct link is accessible to the site from all of 888’s sites. We continue to support the work of the RIGT (Responsibility In Gambling Trust) through contributions to their educational programmes, the aim of which is to help young people better understand the dangers of problem gaming and to help them develop the personal and social skills that are also relevant to a wide range of choices and not just to gambling. Preventative Measures 888 works closely with its customers in all aspects of the gambling experience. If however that experience become a problem for the customer we work with them towards the best and most comfortable solution for them. We have several established measures in place to help prevent gambling becoming a problem for players. These include setting personal limits, opportunities for self- exclusion during which time the customer will not receive any promotional material and a “Gambling Therapy” button providing customers with information and support to anyone affected by problem gaming. In addition, during 2008 we implemented a totally unique proprietary project called the “Observer”, the aim of which is to develop a bespoke set of algorithms to identify patterns that are likely to indicate early problem gamblers. We developed this data mining system in consultation with Dr Mark Griffiths, a Chartered Psychologist and Professor of Gambling Studies at the Nottingham Trent University. A complex set of parameters including financial and behavioural data are used to flag up any customers who might be at risk from becoming a problem gambler. This data is analysed and investigated and then action taken in partnership with the customer to prevent or resolve a potential problem situation occurring. 28 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM FRONT.indd 28 16254888COM FRONT.indd 28 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Regulation and General Regulatory Developments The regulatory framework of online gaming in different countries around the world is as dynamic and rapidly evolving as ever. While some jurisdictions have moved to curtail the activities of online gaming sites, many others are currently contemplating liberalization and regulation of the industry, and some have already taken this route. The Board notes that there are significant risks, unique to the online gaming industry, including from activity with customers in the USA prior to the Group’s withdrawal from the market in October 2006, when US customers of 888 generated 55% of its total Revenue. The Board remains committed to monitoring closely and addressing regulatory changes as they occur, and to fostering, so far as possible, the trend towards liberalisation and regulation of online gaming throughout the world. Gibraltar 888 is licensed and regulated in Gibraltar. European Union (EU) The European Commission is challenging the online gambling and betting regulatory regimes of various European States, as the Commission holds that as regards EU licensed companies, these regimes might infringe the enshrined freedom to provide services, the freedom of establishment and the concept of mutual recognition. This effort is reflected in, inter alia, the infringement proceedings initiated against several EU States — Italy, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Hungary, the Netherlands, Sweden, France, Austria and Greece. Should these Member States fail to supply adequate reasoning of their gambling legislation, the Commission may refer the issue with each Member State to the European Court of Justice. While these proceedings may, in the end, cause the European States to liberalise their gambling markets, it should be noted that it could be a very long time before resolutions or judgments are reached (if at all). However, the pressure exerted by the EU Commission has resulted in several EU Member States contemplating and, in some cases advancing, a liberalised gaming sector. These Member States include France, Spain, Sweden, Greece and Denmark. Indeed, the French Budget Minister recently presented a liberalisation scheme, which will see (according to the Minister) French licensed online gambling activities in 2010. Other EU Member States such as Ireland, Cyprus, Belgium, Estonia and the Czech Republic are also considering revising their gaming laws so as to possibly regulate online gaming. In addition to these infringement proceedings, the EU Commission is involved in other instances in which the online gambling and betting regulatory regimes appear to contravene rights and freedoms of online gambling and betting operators (e.g. issuing detailed opinions against the enactment of prohibitive legislation, and intervening in the World Trade Organisation (WTO) process described below). In March 2009, the EU Parliament approved a report calling to, inter alia, respect the States’ rights to protect consumers, fight crime and preserve the structures used to finance sport and social activities, This report is, to a large part, inconsistent with the views held by the EU Commission and lacks any formal operational impact. In Italy, 888 holds a sports betting licence, which allows it to offer sports betting services (supervised by the State Monopoly Authority). Following regulations issued by the Italian authorities in 2007, the licence will allow 888 to offer skill games (including Poker tournaments), subject to receiving the proper authorisations from the Italian authorities. USA/WTO In the USA, the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) added a new section to the United States Code making it illegal for anyone engaging in the business of betting or wagering to knowingly accept any credit, electronic funds transfer, check, draft, etc. in connection with the participation of another person in unlawful Internet gaming. In essence, the UIGEA prohibits online gambling operators from receiving the proceeds of financial transactions in connection with Internet gaming if the gaming is illegal in the state where the bettor is located. In addition, the United States’ Treasury Department and Federal Reserve promulgated regulations that require financial institutions to implement measures intended to block transactions in connection with Internet gaming; these regulations entered into force on 19 January 2009, although their implementation date is delayed to 1 December 2009. In October 2006 the Group stopped taking bets from US customers. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 29 16254888COM FRONT.indd 29 16254888COM FRONT.indd 29 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Enhanced Business Review continued On 5 June 2007, the Group announced that it had initiated preliminary discussions with the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York regarding activity prior to enactment of the legislation. It is too early to assess any particular outcome of these discussions. It was recently found by the World Trade Organisation that the US legislative position with respect to Internet Gambling violates US trade commitments. Following this decision, the USA is seeking to withdraw its trade commitment in the sphere of gambling; while several trade partners required compensation from the US following this withdrawal, none of the agreements reached, so far, between the USA and trade partners, have had an impact on the online gambling market. Antigua did not reach an agreement with the USA, and applied to the WTO to arbitrate a settlement between it and the USA, in connection with the withdrawal of the USA commitment. There are still ongoing negotiations between the US and Antigua in this respect. In December 2007, the Remote Gaming Association (a trade body representing several online gaming operators, of which the Group is a member) filed a complaint with the European Union against the USA in connection with the breach of its trade commitments. Following this complaint, the European Commission decided to open an investigation into whether the United States is in breach of its WTO obligations in the sphere of gambling (in relation to the period prior to the withdrawal of its commitment). The investigation is expected to conclude during the first few months of 2009, at which date the Commission will present its findings, which could lead to the initiation of WTO proceedings. The Board continues to monitor these developments closely, and is alert to changes as they may occur in areas where the Group operates. 30 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM FRONT.indd 30 16254888COM FRONT.indd 30 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Corporate Social Responsibility Corporate Social Responsibility CSR is fast becoming one of the key benchmarks of an organisation’s overall success and reputation in the marketplace and our commitment to CSR is a reflection of its importance to staff, customers, local communities and the environment in which our business operates. Community Our goal is to serve as a positive influence on the communities in which we operate. During December 2008, 888 held its second Charity Day. We raised a significant sum which will be donated to global charity World for World which focuses on improving the nutrition and living standards of some of the world’s poorest communities. As part of the Group’s ongoing community projects, our staff have been involved in a number of projects throughout the year. In Gibraltar donations were made throughout the year to a number of local charities including the Research into Childhood Cancer charity and Childline Gibraltar. We continue to support St Martin’s School through various activities including a Gardening Day in March and the donation of a Christmas tree. In Antigua we organised a poster competition for the Adele School for Special Children, a day’s event for the whole school and we held a Christmas lunch for the residents and donated much-needed supplies for craft activities to the National Vocational and Rehabilitation Centre for the Disabled. In Israel, for the second year running 45 employees joined the Ruach Hatova (the “Good Wind”) national volunteering organisation for a day of goodwill comprising an outing for refugees. We continue to support the Netanya-based non- profit charity “Derech Ha’Etgar” that helps disadvantaged teenagers. In June we held a day’s cycle outing and in December we held a Hanukah party for the children and donated games, prizes and holiday treats. We have also helped to redecorate the centre. Environment 888 has been a constituent member since 2007 of the FTSE4Good Index, which aims to provide a tool for investors to identify and invest in companies that meet globally recognised corporate responsibility standards. Whilst pure online-based businesses have a low impact on the environment, the Group is still committed to taking a proactive approach to minimise its environmental footprint. In 2008 we established a global green forum, the “Bee Green Forum”. The forum meets monthly to discuss and implement environmental policies and initiatives throughout the Group’s operational sites. The first of these initiatives was an awareness campaign to encourage employees to think about the impact of their actions on the environment and to recycle and save energy by switching off machinery and lights when appropriate. We produced a Bee logo to front the campaign with posters and signs displaying useful environmental information which has proved very popular with staff. One of the key operational goals was the reduction of our electricity consumption. A pilot scheme that was introduced in our Israel office in 2007 was subsequently fully implemented and the following steps were taken: l Installation of energy efficient light sources l Automated control of air conditioning and lighting systems with motion sensors in meeting rooms l Installation of solar energy device for water heating l Optimisation system installed to our air conditioning saving 15% of energy used l Anti-sun stickers installed on windows improving air conditioning efficiency We have, through these actions, reduced our energy consumption by 11%. All our offices recycle as many materials as possible and employees are discouraged from using disposable cups. We use only ecological detergents in our offices and have installed a number of water saving devices. In order to minimise the impact of travel on the environment we encourage employees to cycle by providing allocated parking, showers and changing rooms. In order to minimise international travel 888 has invested in state-of-the-art teleconferencing facilities which encourages staff to use virtual conference meetings instead of travel. Employees In a fast-moving and competitive industry the management, communication, reward and retention of our employees is a key factor in our continued success. We strive to be an employer of choice where employees have an opportunity to be successful and fulfil their potential. We recognise that our employees represent a centre of excellence for the online gaming industry and we are keen to nurture and maintain that pool of talent. We adopt a consultative approach with our employees through various means including the intranet and employee surveys. In 2008 our focus was on employee engagement levels and how to improve employee satisfaction. We conducted a global employee opinion survey to understand, in a formal, well-structured, measurable and traceable manner, our employees’ feedback towards different aspects of their daily work, atmosphere and culture. The survey’s findings have formed the basis for defining objectives for improvement and a number of actions are being taken across the business as a direct result. This will become an annual event. Professional Development Beyond financial rewards, 888 aims to provide clear opportunities for development and progression enabling Annual Report & Accounts 2008 31 16254888COM FRONT.indd 31 16254888COM FRONT.indd 31 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Corporate Social Responsibility continued employees to improve their skill set and performance. We have implemented an annual global appraisal system called “talking@888” using a web-based platform. The main target of the appraisal & goals process is to conduct an open dialogue between employees and their managers, while examining performance and achievement of goals throughout the past year and defining goals for the upcoming year. Each employee is also evaluated on the expression of the values in their everyday work. We hold an annual business leadership convention to keep senior managers informed of strategy and business performance; this information is then cascaded down to all employees. In 2008 we also sent our key managers from different locations and divisions on an executive development programme for companies competing in global markets. Training Training and development programmes help employees develop their skills and experience and to reach their full potential, benefiting both themselves and the Group. During 2008 over 80% of all Group employees participated in internal and/or external training courses including soft skills, technology and industry led training. Equal opportunity We believe that inclusion is about ensuring everyone has an equal opportunity to access 888 as an employer. We value everyone’s contribution, regardless of their background or gender, and firmly believe that our diverse workforce helps us to meet the needs of our global customers. At the year end, the Group had 931 employees (2007: 805) in the following locations: Gibraltar, Israel, Antigua and London. development is encouraged and advancement is based solely on merit. We must always invest in developing our employees so that they can achieve their personal aspirations. All employees should expect their managers to be capable, knowledgeable and motivating. We must always treat our suppliers and other partners with respect, enabling them to make a fair profit. We will never expose our employees to regulatory risk and all employees should be comfortable that their actions are just and ethical. Responsibility@888 — We must use our financial success for the greater good. We are in a great position to invest back in to the charities and organizations that are important to our employees and to our customers. We must especially encourage and support the social responsibility that accompanies our work. We are committed to provide a fair and responsible gaming environment and to guide our customers to play responsibly. Investors@888 — We must strive to operate as efficiently as possible, achieving profitable excellence always ensuring that we treat their capital as if it was our own. We must take risks that allow step-changes in performance while always calculating the risk and measuring our results, retaining knowledge and learning from our experiences. By doing all of the above we will increase shareholder value. Our Values: Excellence: We consistently challenge ourselves to reach the highest performance level in everything we do. Innovation: We dare to question our own ‘way of doing things’, keeping an open mind, experimenting, and constantly creating new surprising and effective solutions. Life@888 — the 888 Creed Entertainment@888 — We believe that entertainment is what completes our lives. After the challenges and routine that occupy most of our time, everyone is entitled to some fun and excitement. Caring: We value every employee, colleague and customer. We show it by creating a nurturing environment of respect and sensitivity to the needs of others. We do not forget our commitment to provide a responsible gaming environment to all. Customers@888 — We believe that our first responsibility is to provide the best experience and world-class service to our customers and business partners at all levels. This means tailoring the most perfect offering for each customer, client and partner from the high level of the business down to each and every player, at all locations at any given time. 888 is proud to both develop and acquire new products to maintain its edge. We are always mindful of the complex regulatory environment that we operate in and the social responsibility that comes with our industry. 888 understands that in order to create value, it must protect values — and that demands an investment of time and resources in caring for its more vulnerable customers. Employees@888 — We are responsible for our employees who work with us worldwide. We must provide an enjoyable work environment where people are challenged and motivated to excel, where flair is rewarded, compensation is fair and the balance between work and family is respected. Individual Customer centricity: We keep our customers (both internal and external) at the centre of all decision-making processes, we strive to exceed customer expectations and provide the best customer experience. Leading: We strive to remain one step ahead of the competition. This means we are constantly on our toes, thinking ahead and keeping a close eye on industry developments. Collaboration: We know our success depends on our ability to work as a single unit while sharing our knowledge, capabilities and opinions in an open, respectful and trusting environment. These values underpin the Group’s strategic goals, giving all employees a sense of identification and a defined way of behaving as well as ensuring alignment between the organization’s business objectives and those of individual employees. These values serve us as our guidelines and we strive to obtain a high level of integrity in the way we work, communicate and act. 32 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM FRONT.indd 32 16254888COM FRONT.indd 32 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Risk Report The Group operates in a new and dynamic business environment. In addition to the day-to-day commercial risks faced by most enterprises, the online gaming industry faces particular challenges in respect of Regulatory risk, Reputational risk, Information Technology risk and Taxation risk, each of which is detailed below. 888 operate a 24x7 Network Operations Centre (NOC). The NOC’s role is to conduct real time monitoring of production activities using state-of-the-art systems. These systems are designed to identify and provide alerts regarding problems related to systems, key business indicators and issues surrounding customer usability experience. Regulatory risk The regulatory framework of online gaming is dynamic and complex. Change in the regulatory regime in a specific jurisdiction could have a material adverse effect on business volume and financial performance in that jurisdiction. A detailed regulatory review is set out below. Reputational risk The Group is exposed to the risk of under-age and problem gamblers accessing its online real money gaming sites. The Group devotes considerable resources to putting in place prevention measures coupled with strict internal procedures designed to prevent under-aged players from accessing its real money sites. In addition, the Group promotes a safe and responsible gaming environment to its customers supplemented by its corporate culture. The Group has a dedicated Director of CSR & Responsible Gaming tasked with the responsibility of implementing such policies. Further details about the Group’s responsible gaming initiatives are set out on page 31. Information technology risks As a leading online business, the Group’s IT systems are critical to its operation. The Group is reliant on the performance of these systems. Cutting-edge technologies and procedures are implemented throughout the Group’s technology operations designed to protect its networks from malicious attacks and other such risks. These measures include traffic filtering, anti-DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) devices, Anti-Virus protection from leading vendors and other such means. Physical and logical network segmentation is used to isolate and protect the Group’s networks and restrict malicious activities. In order to ensure systems are protected properly and effectively, external security scans and assessments are carried out in a timely manner. The Group has a high-end storage solution to ensure storage availability and performance. All critical data is replicated to another storage device for disaster recovery purposes and all data is stored off-site on a daily basis. In order to minimise dependencies on telecommunication service providers, the Group invests in network infrastructure redundancies whilst regularly reviewing its service providers. The Group has contracted with a second Internet service provider in Gibraltar in order to minimise reliance on one provider. As a part of its monitoring system, the Group deploys set user experience tests which measure performance from different locations around the world. Network-related performance issues are addressed by re-routing traffic using different routes or providers. Taxation risk The Group aims to ensure that each legal entity within the Group is a tax resident of the jurisdiction in which it is incorporated and has no taxable presence in any other jurisdiction. While the Group’s customers are located worldwide, certain jurisdictions may seek to tax such activity which could have a material adverse effect on the amount of tax payable by the Group or on customers’ behaviour. The Group benefits from favourable fiscal arrangements in some of the jurisdictions in which it has taxable presence without which its results would be adversely affected. All gaming activities are based in Gibraltar, where the Group currently benefits from a tax exempt status. A change of control or activity of a tax exempt subsidiary would result in the loss of its tax status. However, this is not expected to have a material adverse effect on the overall tax rate of the Group. The tax exempt status is due to expire by the end of 2010 when the Government of Gibraltar intends to introduce a new fiscal regime that complies with EU requirements. Domestic corporate tax in Gibraltar is 27% (2008/2009). Gibraltar’s Chief Minister has announced further reductions in anticipation of the introduction of a flat tax rate of 10% in 2010. A consultation is in place with respect to the new tax regime in Gibraltar and it is widely anticipated, following Government indications that the new rules will be in place by July 2009 but not come into effect until July 2010 with gaming companies subject to an effective rate of tax well below the new flat tax rate. The Group is currently required to pay a gaming duty, currently set at 1% of gaming yield, with an annual maximum cap of £425,000 in aggregate, in respect of its Casino, Poker, Bingo and Backgammon activities and, separately, at the same rate in respect of the Group’s new Sports offering. The applicability of the gaming taxes following the implementation of the new tax regime is, as yet, unclear. The Group’s subsidiary in Israel, Random Logic Limited, and the Israeli branch of Intersafe Global Limited, have each entered into separate transfer pricing agreements on an arm’s length basis with the Israeli Income Tax Commissioner. The arrangements for Random Logic Limited are effective until 2010, while the arrangement for the Intersafe Global Limited branch terminated on 31 December 2007. Accordingly, the Group has discontinued the use of this branch. The operation in Antigua also benefits from a low tax regime further mitigated by the current small scale of the operation. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 33 16254888COM FRONT.indd 33 16254888COM FRONT.indd 33 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Board of Directors Heading Richard Kilsby Non-executive Chairman Aviad Kobrine Chief Financial Officer Shay Ben-Yitzhak Non-executive Director Richard Kilsby has been Chairman since March 2006, having previously been Deputy Chairman of the Group from August 2005. He is currently a Non-executive Director of Collins Stewart plc and Tullett Prebon plc. Since 2001, he has held several Board and management positions in various private and venture capital funded companies. In 2004, he acted as independent monitor for the SEC and USA Department of Justice. From 1999 to 2002, he was Chief Executive of Tradepoint and subsequently Executive Vice- Chairman of virt-x plc. From 1995 to 1998, he was an Executive Director of the London Stock Exchange, prior to which he was a Managing Director for Bankers Trust from 1992 to 1995. He was also Vice-Chairman of Charterhouse Bank from 1988 to 1992, and spent the early part of his career with Price Waterhouse (now PwC) where he was a partner from 1984 to 1988. Age 57. Gigi Levy Chief Executive Officer Gigi Levy has been Chief Executive Officer of the Group since January 2007, following six months as Chief Operating Officer. Prior to his appointment, Gigi worked for Amdocs, one of the world’s largest software providers and systems integrators in the telecoms market (NYSE: DOX), most recently as Division President managing Amdocs’ activity in Europe (except Eastern Europe), Central and Latin America. Before joining Amdocs, Gigi held several interim management and consulting roles with various companies in Israel and the UK. Gigi also headed Giltek, a telecommunication systems integrator, and Girit Telecommunications, an Israeli Information and Communications Technology systems integrator. He holds an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. Age 37. Aviad Kobrine has been Chief Financial Officer of the Group since June 2005, and was appointed to the Board in August 2005. From October 2004 he was a consultant to 888. Previously, he was a banker with the Media Telecoms Investment Banking Group of Lehman Brothers and prior to that, he was a senior associate with Slaughter and May. He holds a Masters in Finance from the London Business School (Distinction), a BA in Economics and an LLB from Tel Aviv University. Age 45. Brian Mattingley Deputy Chairman and Senior Independent Non-executive Director Brian Mattingley has been Deputy Chairman since March 2006, and was appointed to the Board in August 2005. He was previously Chief Executive of Gala Regional Developments Limited until 2005. From 1997 to 2003 he was Group Finance and Strategy Director of Gala Group Plc, prior to which he was Chief Executive of Ritz Bingo Limited. He has held senior executive positions within Kingfisher Plc and Dee Corporation Plc. Age 57. John Anderson Non-executive Director John Anderson was the Chief Executive Officer of the Group from September 2000 to December 2006. He is currently Non- executive Chairman of Burford Holdings plc and was Chief Executive Officer of Burford Holdings plc from 1996 to 2000. He is Chairman of the Interactive Gaming Council; a Board member of eCOGRA and Chairman of 10 Tech Holdings Limited. Previously, he was a Board member of Ladbrokes plc from 1990 to 1996. Age 60. Shay Ben-Yitzhak is one of 888’s founders, was the Chief Technical Officer of the Group and responsible for research and development from the establishment of its research and development centre in Tel Aviv until June 2006. Previously he was a software engineer for Tower Semiconductor Limited and CIBAM Technologies Limited. He holds a BSc in computer science from Technion — the Israel Institute of Technology. Age 40. Michael Constantine Independent Non-executive Director Michael Constantine was appointed in August 2005. From 1996 to 1998, he was Deputy Superintendent of the Turks and Caicos Islands Financial Services Commission, and in 1995 was head of the Financial Supervision Unit of the Mauritius Offshore Business Activities Authority. From 1991 to 1995 he was Inspector of Licensees at the Gibraltar Financial Services Commission, latterly Acting Commissioner. He is a Chartered Accountant and for many years a partner in the firm of Spain Brothers & Company. He served in the Royal Naval Reserve, reaching the rank of Commander. Age 70. Amos Pickel Independent Non-executive Director Amos Pickel was appointed in March 2006. Formerly the Chief Executive Officer of Atlas Management Company Limited and Chief Executive Officer and member of the Board of Directors of Red Sea Hotels Ltd. Previously a Non-executive Director of Gresham Hotel Group Plc, he is a solicitor holding a Masters in Law from New York University and a LL.B. from Tel Aviv University. Age 42. 34 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM FRONT.indd 34 16254888COM FRONT.indd 34 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Corporate Governance 888 Holdings plc (the “Company”) is listed on the London Stock Exchange, but it is not subject to the UK Combined Code on Corporate Governance issued in June 2006 (the Code) as it is a Gibraltar incorporated company. The Directors support high standards of Corporate Governance and will continue to comply with the Code as far as it is appropriate for a company incorporated in Gibraltar. The Board The Directors consider it essential that the Company should be both led and controlled by an effective Board. Composition The Board consists of eight Directors as follows: three Independent Non-executive Directors, two non-Independent Non-executive Directors, a Non-executive Chairman, and two Executive Directors, comprising the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. The biographical details of all of the Directors are given on page 34. Strategic approach The Board focuses upon the Group’s long-term objectives, strategic and policy issues and considers the management of key risks facing the Group. The Board is responsible for acquisitions and divestments, major capital expenditure projects and considering Group budgets and dividend policy. The Board also determines key appointments. The Board receives regular updates on shareholders’ views. The Board has established a calendar of business. This provides for the financial calendar, strategic planning, annual budgets and performance self-assessments, as well as the conduct of standing business. The calendar forms the basis for effective integration of business activities as between the Board and its principal Committees (see pages 36 and 37), which individually consider their own operating frameworks against the Board’s business programme. The Board has established a formal process for the annual evaluation of the performance of the Board, its committees and individual Directors. The evaluation process covered a range of issues such as Board processes, Board rols and responsibilities, Board agendas and committee processes. The Board and its committees were found to be operating effectively. The Board plans to meet six times a year. During 2008, the Board met six times. Set out below are details of the Directors’ attendance record at Board and Committee meetings in 2008. Total held in year Richard Kilsby Gigi Levy Aviad Kobrine John Anderson Shay Ben-Yitzhak Michael Constantine Brian Mattingley Amos Pickel The Chairman has responsibility for ensuring that agendas for Board meetings are set in advance. Board papers are issued to Directors sufficiently in advance of meetings to facilitate both informed debate and timely decisions. Non-executive review and performance appraisal The Chairman holds meetings at least once per year with the Non-executive Directors without the Executive Directors being present. Led by the Senior Independent Director, the Non-executive Directors meet once per year without the Chairman present in order to appraise the performance of the Chairman. The Directors have wide-ranging business experience, and no individual, or group of individuals, dominates the Board’s decision making. Total number of meetings held during the year ended December 2008 and the number of meetings attended by each Director Audit Remuneration Nominations Board Committee Committee Committee 6 5 6 6 5 5 6 6 4 3 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 3 3 3 5 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 5 5 4 0 — n/a n/a n/a n/a — — n/a The Board considers that Brian Mattingley, Michael Constantine and Amos Pickel satisfy the criteria of the Code to act as Independent Non-executive Directors. The Board is satisfied that, upon his appointment as Chairman, Richard Kilsby met the independence criteria of the Code. The other significant commitments of the Chairman during 2008 are detailed in his biography on page 34. The Board considers that Mr Kilsby’s other commitments do not interfere with the discharge of his responsibilities to the Group and is satisfied that he makes sufficient time available to serve the Company effectively. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 35 16254888COM FRONT.indd 35 16254888COM FRONT.indd 35 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Corporate Governance continued Heading Reserved powers and delegation A schedule of matters reserved to the Board has been adopted and its content is reviewed to align it with operational needs and the Board’s preference to monitor and, where appropriate, approve matters of substance to the Group as a whole. Senior executives have given written undertakings to ensure compliance within their business operations with the Board’s formal schedule of matters reserved to it for decision or approval. Division of responsibilities The responsibilities of the Chairman are clearly and formally defined, with the Chairman being responsible for the effective operation of the Board as a whole and supporting key external relationships. Other issues All Directors have access to the advice and services of the Company Secretary and the Company’s nominated advisers, who are responsible for ensuring that Board procedures are followed. Directors are able to seek independent professional advice, if required, at the Company’s expense provided that they have first notified their intention to do so. The appointment or removal of the Company Secretary is a matter for the Board as a whole. The Board accepts that there should be a formal, rigorous and transparent procedure for the induction of new Directors, which has been formulated with the guidance of the Nominations Committee. The opportunity to hold office as Non-executive Directors of other companies enables Directors of 888 to broaden their experience and knowledge, which will benefit the Company. Executive Directors may be allowed to accept non-executive appointments with the Board’s prior permission, so long as these are not likely to lead to any conflict of interest. Executive Directors may be required to account for fees received from such other companies. The Company has arranged insurance cover in respect of legal actions against its Directors. To the extent permitted by Gibraltar law, the Company also indemnifies the Directors. Neither the insurance nor the indemnity provides cover where a Director has acted fraudulently or dishonestly. Re-election of Directors All Directors are subject to reappointment by shareholders at the first Annual General Meeting after their appointment, and thereafter, in accordance with the Articles of Association of the Company, at intervals of no more than three years. Gigi Levy and John Anderson were appointed as Directors (Mr Anderson for an initial period of three years) at the 2007 Annual General Meeting. Richard Kilsby, Shay Ben Itzhak and Aviad Kobrine were appointed for a period of three years, following their reappointment by the shareholders at the 2008 Annual General Meeting. Audit Committee The Audit Committee comprises three independent Non- executive Directors: Brian Mattingley (Chair), Michael Constantine and Amos Pickel. The Board is satisfied that Brian Mattingley has sufficient recent and relevant financial experience to Chair the Audit Committee. Normally, by invitation, the Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer and where appropriate the internal auditor and representatives of the Company’s external auditors attend the Audit Committee meetings. The Audit Committee’s terms of reference are available on request to the Company Secretary and are included on the Company’s website, www.888holdingsplc.com. In summary, the Audit Committee assists the Board in discharging its responsibilities with regard to financial reporting, external and internal audits and controls, including reviewing 888’s annual financial statements, considering the scope of annual audit and the extent of non-audit work undertaken by external auditors, approving 888’s internal audit programme, advising on the appointment of external auditors and reviewing the effectiveness of internal control systems. Nominations Committee The Nominations Committee comprises three independent Non-executive Directors: Michael Constantine (Chair), Brian Mattingley and Amos Pickel as well as Richard Kilsby, Chairman. The Nominations Committee did not meet during 2008. The Nominations Committee assists the Board in discharging its responsibilities relating to the composition of the Board. The Nominations Committee is responsible for reviewing, from time to time, the structure of the Board, determining succession plans for the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and identifying and recommending suitable candidates for appointment as Directors. The Nominations Committee’s terms of reference are available on request to the Company Secretary and are included on the Company’s website, www.888holdingsplc.com. Remuneration Committee The Company’s Remuneration Committee comprises three independent Non-executive Directors: Brian Mattingley (chair) Michael Constantine and Amos Pickel. The Board has overall responsibility for determining the framework of Executive remuneration and its cost. It is required to take account of any recommendation made by the Remuneration Committee in determining the remuneration, benefits and employment packages of the Executive Directors and senior management and the fees of the Chairman. 36 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM FRONT.indd 36 16254888COM FRONT.indd 36 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 The Remuneration Report, which outlines the Remuneration Committee’s work and details of Directors’ remuneration, is on pages 38 to 39. The Remuneration Committee’s terms of reference are available on request to the Company Secretary and are included on the Company’s website, www.888holdingsplc.com. All shareholders are welcome to attend the 2009 Annual General Meeting and private investors are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity given to ask questions. The Chairmen (or nominated members) of the Audit, Remuneration and Nominations Committees will attend the meeting and be available to answer questions. Compliance with the Code Provisions As 888 Holdings Public Limited Company is registered in Gibraltar, it is subject to compliance with Gibraltar statutory requirements and is not bound by the UK Combined Code. The main legislation relevant to companies in Gibraltar is the Gibraltar Companies Act, which is based on the UK Companies Act 1929. Going Concern After careful review of the Group’s budget for 2009, its medium-term plans, liquid resources and all relevant matters the Directors are confident that the Company and the Group have adequate financial resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. They have therefore continued to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the financial statements. Corporate and Social Responsibility Statement The Group’s Chief Executive Officer is the Director responsible for monitoring corporate and social responsibility within 888. The Board receives periodic reports on the Group’s activities in this area from the Chief Executive Officer. Further details are set out in the Corporate Social Responsibility report on page 27. Community Sponsorship 888 is a sizeable employer with a visible presence in Gibraltar and enjoys a good relationship with the local community. During 2008, the Group continued its policy of reinforcing this relationship by making contributions to a number of local causes, primarily educational. Charities In 2008, the Group made donations totalling US$107,821 (2007: US$232,000) to organizations promoting various social causes in Gibraltar and Israel. Risk Management and Internal Control The Directors acknowledge that they are responsible for the Company’s system of internal control, for setting policy on internal control, and for reviewing the effectiveness of internal control. It is management’s role to implement Board policies on risk and control, including reporting. The system of internal control is designed to manage rather than eliminate the risk of failure to achieve business objectives and can only provide reasonable, and not absolute, assurance against material misstatement or loss. The Board has delegated responsibility to the Audit Committee to review the appropriateness and adequacy of systems of internal control on an ongoing basis and to make recommendations to the Board. The Company has an internal auditor who reports to the Audit Committee, whose audit programme for 2008 was reviewed and approved by the Audit Committee early in 2008. 888’s payment risk management team, based in Gibraltar, has developed stringent payment risk management and fraud control procedures. The team makes use of external and internal systems to manage the payment risks faced by 888’s operational systems. Detailed procedures exist throughout the Company’s operations and compliance is monitored by operational management and the internal auditor. The Directors periodically review the effectiveness of the Group’s systems of internal control. The review considers individual risk control responsibilities, reporting lines and qualitative assessments of residual risks. Relations with Shareholders and Key Financial Audiences The Company maintains an active and regular dialogue with principal and institutional shareholders and sell-side analysts through a planned programme of investor relations and financial PR activity. The outcome of these meetings is reported to the Board. The programme includes formal presentations of full year and interim results, quarterly release of Interim Management Statements, analyst’s conference calls and periodic road shows. Brian Mattingley, the Senior Independent Director, is available to shareholders to address any issues where contact with the Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer is inappropriate or where such contact has failed to resolve the issue. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 37 16254888COM FRONT.indd 37 16254888COM FRONT.indd 37 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Remuneration Report Heading In accordance with the Listing Rules, the Company presents its report on the remuneration of its Directors for the year ended 31 December 2008. The Company is incorporated in Gibraltar and, therefore, is not required to comply with the Directors’ Remuneration Report requirements in Schedule 7A to the UK Companies Act 1985, but has chosen to prepare this Remuneration Report on the basis of those requirements, as appropriate. The report sets out the structure and details of the remuneration of the Directors for the year ended 31 December 2008. It also describes the Board’s policy and approach to the Principles of Good Governance relating to Directors’ remuneration. A resolution to approve the Remuneration Report is proposed, annually, to shareholders for approval. This Remuneration Report will be put to shareholder vote at the 2009 Annual General Meeting. Remuneration Committee The Remuneration Committee consists solely of independent Non-executive Directors, currently Brian Mattingley (Chair), Michael Constantine and Amos Pickel. Details of attendances at Committee meetings are contained in the statement on Corporate Governance on page 35. The Remuneration Committee has formal terms of reference (which are available on request in writing to the Company Secretary and on the Company’s website, www.888holdingsplc.com). Independent Advice The Board intends that executive remuneration policies be both formal and transparent. It further acknowledges the importance of taking into consideration independent advice in setting remuneration policies and benefit levels. The Remuneration Committee has taken advice from New Bridge Street Consultants as independent advisors with respect to Executive Directors’ remuneration towards the end of 2006 and therefore further advice was not required during 2008. The policies applied in 2008 remain consistent with that advice. Remuneration Policy Executive Directors Remuneration packages must be sufficient to attract, retain and motivate Directors of the calibre appropriate to a global business in a competitive environment. The Remuneration Committee is mindful that most of the Group’s competitors are not UK listed companies and takes into account in determining appropriate remuneration levels.The components of the remuneration structure are set out below. At least half of the total potential remuneration of the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer are represented by a variable element, dependent on the performance of the Company. The Remuneration Committee considers that these represent achievable and motivational levels of personal rewards commensurate with stipulated levels of corporate performance. The Remuneration Committee is mandated by the Board to satisfy itself that the level of the Directors’ and senior management’s remuneration is appropriate, having regard to pay and conditions throughout the rest of the sectors in which the Group operates. It will further satisfy itself that such remuneration aligns with the risks and rewards to shareholders. In this context the Remuneration Committee will regularly review individual and corporate performance targets. In the current volatile economic climate, executive leadership is more important than ever. The Remuneration Committee will continue to use careful and rigorous judgement to match remuneration to achievements. The Remuneration Committee has taken account of the volatile economic climate in considering the application of performance conditions which were set in previous years and has exercised its discretion to waive and amend such conditions as it has deemed appropriate and as further explained below. Non-executive Directors The Chairman and the Non-executive Directors receive fees only, and are not eligible to participate in any bonus plan, pension plan, share plan, or long-term incentive plan of the Company. The Chairman and the Executive Directors determine the fees paid to the Non-executive Directors. The Chairman’s fees are determined by the Remuneration Committee. Fees paid to the Non-executive Directors are set by reference to an assessment of the time commitment and responsibility associated with each role. Levels take account of additional demands placed upon individual Non-executive Directors by virtue of their holding particular offices, such as Committee Chairman and/or Deputy Chairman and travel time to Board meetings and the Group’s headquarters in Gibraltar. The fees paid to each Non-executive Director during 2008 are disclosed in the Directors’ remuneration summary on pages 41 and 42. Remuneration Structure Base Salary and Benefits Base salaries are subject to annual review. Gigi Levy’s last review took place in April 2008 and his salary for 2008 remained GBP420,000. Aviad Kobrine’s last review took place in January 2008 and his aggregate salary for 2008 which is paid by his employers, the Company and Cassava Enterprises (Gibraltar) Limited was raised in line with inflation, to GBP285,000. Benefits provided to Executive Directors include a car (in the case of Gigi Levy) and a car allowance (in the case of Aviad Kobrine) and health, disability and life insurance. Annual Cash Bonus Gigi Levy and Aviad Kobrine are entitled to an annual cash bonus of up to 120% of annualised salary, subject to the achievement of predetermined targets. The Remuneration Committee sets bonus targets and levels of eligibility each 38 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM FRONT.indd 38 16254888COM FRONT.indd 38 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 year. For the 2008 financial year, the performance target was 20% growth in revenue* compared to 2007 for non-US business and provided that the EBITDA* margin for 2007 was maintained. The pay out levels were set at 50% of base salary for 80% performance, increasing on a linear basis up to 100% where targets were fully satisfied. In the event that revenue growth exceeded 20%, the percentage bonus entitlement increased by 4% for every 1% additional revenue growth, up to a maximum bonus entitlement of 120%. These targets were met during 2008 and both Gigi Levy and Aviad Kobrine are entitled to receive an annual cash bonus of 100% of their annualised 2008 salary. The bonuses are payable by their respective employers. The Remuneration Committee has rigorously reviewed the results achieved against the performance targets set for the 2008 financial year and is satisfied that the targets it set were challenging and the bonuses awarded were earned by outstanding performance. Notwithstanding their contractual entitlement to receive 100% of their annual cash bonus, in light of the current economic environment, the Executive Directorrs waived 25% of their contractual entitlement to cash bonuses. In addition, the Executive Directorrs, in order to further reflect their long-term commitment to the Group’s future, elected to receive 20% of their maximum potential annual cash bonus entitlement (after the waiver of 25%) in the form of a grant by the Remuneration Committee of a share award pursuant to the terms of the All Employee Plan which will vest over three years. Accordingly, the actual cash bonus received by the Executive Directorrs was only 55% of the total annual cash bonus entitlement. Additionally, the performance conditions attaching to the share award granted to Gigi Levy in 2006, vesting of which was subject to the same conditions as for his annual cash bonus, were met in full for the financial year 2008. Pensions Gigi Levy and Aviad Kobrine are each entitled to a cash payment in lieu of an annual contribution to their personal pension schemes of 15% of their respective base salaries (in the case of Aviad Kobrine, 15% of his basic salary under both service agreements). Long Term Incentives The Company has two employee share incentive plans: (i) the 888 All-Employee Share Plan, and (ii) the 888 Long Term Incentive Plan. The Company currently grants awards only under the 888 All-Employee Plan. Performance-dependent options and awards were granted under the 888 All-Employee Plan to the Executive Directors on 14 September 2006, 30 April 2007 and 8 April 2008. Details of these awards and options are set out on page 43. In 2008, the Remuneration Committee made additional share awards to the Executive Directorrs in recognition of their excellent performance during 2007. Gigi Levy’s award vests in equal portions over 4 years with annual vesting subject to the same performance conditions as his annual cash bonus in each of those years. Such conditions were met in full for the financial year 2008. Aviad Kobrine’s award vests over 4 years and the Remuneration Committee did not impose any performance conditions on that award. 888 All-Employee Share Plan All employees, exclusive consultants and Executive Directors of the Group who are not within six months of their normal retirement age are eligible to participate in the 888 All-Employee Share Plan at the discretion of the Remuneration Committee. Awards under the 888 All-Employee Share Plan can either be granted for no consideration (or with a nil exercise price for options) or at an exercise price that will normally be no less than the market value of an Ordinary Share at the time of grant or average share price during a period as determined by the Remuneration Committee at time of grant. In countries where an award or option involving real shares is not appropriate or feasible for legal, regulatory or tax reasons, a phantom award may be used. The maximum number of Ordinary Shares that an eligible employee may acquire pursuant to share awards or options granted to him in any calendar year under the 888 All- Employee Share Plan and the 888 Long Term Incentive Plan may not have an aggregate market value, as measured at the date of grant, exceeding 200% of his annual base salary or such higher limit as the Remuneration Committee may determine is appropriate in any individual case. Awards vest over a fixed period of up to four years. The Remuneration Committee may determine that the vesting and release or exercise of share awards and options under the 888 All- Employee Share Plan are subject to performance conditions imposed at the time of grant. * Subject to certain adjustments as determined by the Remuneration Committee. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 39 16254888COM FRONT.indd 39 16254888COM FRONT.indd 39 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Remuneration Report continued Heading The performance conditions which determine the vesting of the options and awards granted on 14 September 2006, 30 April 2007 and 8 April 2008 to Executive Directors are driven solely by financial performance, not by comparison to an external peer group. Vesting occurs over a period of four consecutive years starting in April 2007 and is subject to target growth as determined by the Remuneration Committee. For the vesting of awards in the financial years 2006, 2007 and 2008, the performance conditions set by the Remuneration Committee were a target growth in the Company’s annual EPS (excluding share benefit charges). In each year, EPS must grow by a target of at least 20% in order for 100% of the award for that year to vest. Fifty per cent of the award vests upon achievement of 80% of the target EPS growth rate and increases on a linear basis up to 100% upon achievement of 100% of the target EPS growth. If the threshold of 80% of target EPS growth rate is not met in any one year, the portion of the award due to vest in that year lapses. Performance conditions may be amended by the Remuneration Committee if circumstances which prevailed at the date of grant have subsequently changed provided that the amended performance conditions would be a fairer measure of performance. EPS was taken as the parameter for these performance conditions as the Remuneration Committee is of the view that, given the nature of the industry in which the Company operates where its share price performance is heavily influenced by external factors outside its control, that EPS is a better measure of the Company’s own performance. The Remuneration Committee was of the view that, historically, these performance conditions provide a focus on delivering absolute financial returns. In considering performance for the financial year 2008, the Remuneration Committee was of the view that economic circumstances had changed as a result of factors outside the control of management - volatile currency fluctuations and significantly reduced interest rates meant that EPS was not an appropriate parameter for measuring performance for that year. In light of the strong EBITDA performance of the Group in 2008, the Remuneration Committee waived the performance conditions and exercised its discretion and decided to allow vesting of 60% of the award capable of vesting in 2009 to Aviad Kobrine and eligible members of senior management. At his suggestion, the Remuneration Committee did not waive the performance conditions in relation to Gigi Levy and, accordingly, his award capable of vesting in 2009 lapsed. The Remuneration Committee has decided to amend the performance condition related to the portion of all awards capable of vesting in 2010 in order to take account of the changed economic circumstances. TOI in 2009 must grow by 5% over financial year 2008 in order for 100% of the portion of the awards due to vest in respect of 2009 subject to maintaining adjusted EPS (excluding share benefit charges, interest receivable and foreign currency impact) at the same level as 2008. 50% of the portion vests upon achievement of fifty per cent of the target TOI growth rate and increases on a linear basis up to 100% upon achievement of 100% of the target TOI growth. If the threshold of 50% of target TOI growth rate is not met, the portion of the award due to vest in 2010 lapses. Performance conditions may be amended by the Remuneration Committee if circumstances which prevailed at the date of grant have subsequently changed provided that the amended performance conditions would be a fairer measure of performance. 888 Long Term Incentive Plan All employees and Executive Directors of the Group who are not within six months of their normal retirement age are eligible to participate in the 888 Long Term Incentive Plan at the discretion of the Remuneration Committee. As at the date of this report, no awards have been granted pursuant to the 888 Long Term Incentive Plan. 888 has given long-term incentive awards to Executive Directors under the 888 All Employee Plan. Scheme Limits Awards and options granted under the 888 All-Employee Share Plan and the 888 Long Term Incentive Plan may be satisfied through the issue of new shares. It is intended that grants of options and awards are to be planned so as not to exceed 5% of the issued Ordinary Share capital in any rolling ten year period for the 888 Long Term Incentive Plan, and 10% of the issued Ordinary Share capital in any rolling ten year period for the 888 All-Employee Share Plan and the 888 Long Term Incentive Plan, in the aggregate. The Committee intends to have regard to appropriate annual flow-rates so as to ensure that these limits are not breached. Employee Trusts The Company has established two Trusts to further the interests of the Company, its subsidiaries and shareholders by providing share incentives to employees (including Executive Directors) of any Group Company to enable the Group to attract, retain and motivate employees. The 888 IPO Share Award Trust and the 888 Holdings plc Share Plan Trust were created pursuant to Trust Deeds dated 14 September 2005. The 888 IPO Share Award Trust is operated in connection with the grant of share awards and nil cost options to employees of the Group at the time of the IPO. These trusts currently hold 162,361 Ordinary Shares in the Company. Director Appointments — Service Contracts and Directors’ Fees Executive Directors It is the Company’s policy that each Executive Director’s service agreement is terminable on no more than 12 months’ written notice by either party. Each Executive Director’s 40 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM FRONT.indd 40 16254888COM FRONT.indd 40 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 employment can be terminated by making a payment equal to the salary and pension contributions and the value of other contractual benefits due to the Executive Director in lieu of any unexpired notice period. The Executive Directors continue to be entitled to be paid a bonus during any unexpired part of the notice period even if the employment is terminated by making payment in lieu of notice. Share Awards granted under the 888 All-Employee Share Plan to Gigi Levy and Aviad Kobrine pursuant to their service agreements, on 14 September 2006, and 29 September and 4 October 2005 respectively, continue to vest during any unexpired part of the notice period and they shall be treated as a “good leaver” under the terms of the 888 All- Employee Share Plan where their employment has been terminated by making a payment in lieu of notice. No other benefits upon termination of employment are payable. An Executive Director’s entitlement to share awards and share options under the 888 All-Employee Plan on termination of employment will be governed by the terms of that plan (and in the case of the initial awards made to Gigi Levy and Aviad Kobrine by the relevant provisions of their service agreements). Name Gigi Levy Aviad Kobrine Aviad Kobrine 1 Wholly owned subsidiary of the Company. Position Chief Executive Officer Chief Financial Officer Chief Financial Officer Employer/ Contracting Party The Company The Company Cassava Enterprises (Gibraltar) Limited1 Document Date 18/06/2006 14/09/2005 14/09/2005 Chairman and Non-executive Directors The Chairman and the Non-executive Directors do not have service contracts but have signed Letters of Appointment. Non-executive Directors’ appointments, which are for a fixed term of three years, may be terminated by the Company without notice in accordance with the Company’s Articles of Association and the Gibraltar Companies Act, except for the Chairman who is required to be given six months’ prior written notice of termination. No compensation is payable on the termination of the appointment. Name Richard Kilsby Brian Mattingley John Anderson Michael Constantine Amos Pickel Shay Ben-Yitzhak Position Chairman Deputy Chairman Non-executive Director Non-executive Director Non-executive Director Non-executive Director Employer/ Contracting Party The Company The Company The Company The Company The Company The Company Document Date 14/03/2009 14/03/2009 13/09/2006 14/03/2009 14/03/2009 18/06/2006 Annual Report & Accounts 2008 41 16254888COM FRONT.indd 41 16254888COM FRONT.indd 41 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Remuneration Report continued Heading Directors’ Remuneration Summary The cash emoluments or fees received by the Directors for 2008 are shown below: Executive Gigi Levy Aviad Kobrine2 Non-executive Richard Kilsby Brian Mattingley Michael Constantine John Anderson Shay Ben-Yitzhak Amos Pickel Total Base salary/ fees US$’0001 Bonus US$’000 Benefits US$’000 Pensions allowance US$’000 Total 2008 US$’000 Total 2007 US$’000 778 528 409 163 123 143 0 123 2,267 334 193 117 79 28 41 20 527 89 196 1,257 841 429 163 123 143 0 123 3,079 2,010 1,250 424 161 121 141 0 121 4,328 1 Where Directors’ remuneration is denominated in sterling, amounts have been converted into US$ at the average rate of exchange for the relevant month. 2 Part of Mr Kobrine’s remuneration is paid by one of his employers, Cassava Enterprises (Gibraltar) Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company. 3 Mr Levy and Mr Kobrine elected to receive 20% of their annual cash bonus entitlement in the form of a share award granted by the Remuneration Committee, vesting over 3 years. Additionally, in light of the current economic environment, Mr Levy and Mr Kobrine waived 25% of their contractual entitlement to cash bonuses. Directors’ Interests in Ordinary Shares The notified interests of Executive and Non-executive Directors in the issued share capital of the Company are: Executive Gigi Levy Aviad Kobrine Non-executive Richard Kilsby Brian Mattingley Michael Constantine John Anderson Shay Ben-Yitzhak1 Amos Pickel Ordinary Shares 31 December 31 December 2007 2008 1,243,457 435,683 534,256 296,061 114,285 142,857 22,857 588,869 114,285 142,857 22,857 1,988,869 37,122,358 37,122,358 — — 1 These shares are held on Trust and are subject to a Relationship Agreement dated 14 September 2005 between, among others, the Company and the Principal Shareholder Trusts. Further details can be found on page 45. Except where stated, all interests were held beneficially. 42 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM FRONT.indd 42 16254888COM FRONT.indd 42 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Directors’ Interests in Share Awards & Share Options The number of shares subject to Share Awards or Share Options granted to the Executive Directors and outstanding as at 31 December 2008 is set out below Earliest Exercise exercise/ period vesting date End- Exercise price date Date of award Market Awards at price Exercised/ 31 Dec Awarded Vested in at vesting transferred 2008 2008 2008 2007 date Total Gigi Levy1 888 All-Employee 14/09/06 18/06/08 Share Plan2,4 14/09/06 18/06/09 14/09/06 18/06/10 888 All-Employee 14/09/06 14/04/08 Share Plan2,6 14/09/06 14/04/09 14/09/06 14/04/10 888 All-Employee 14/09/06 18/06/08 Share Plan2,5 14/09/06 18/06/09 14/09/06 18/06/10 888 All-Employee 08/04/08 08/04/09 Share Plan2,6 08/04/08 08/04/10 08/04/08 08/04/11 08/04/08 08/04/12 Aviad Kobrine 888 All-Employee 29/09/05 04/10/08 Share Plan2 29/09/05 04/10/09 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 888 All-Employee 04/10/05 04/10/08 04/10/15 Share Plan3 04/10/05 04/10/09 04/10/15 888 All-Employee 14/09/06 14/04/08 14/09/16 Share Plan3,6 14/09/06 14/04/09 14/09/16 14/09/06 14/04/10 14/09/16 888 All-Employee 14/09/06 14/04/08 Share Plan2,6 14/09/06 14/04/09 14/09/06 14/04/10 888 All-Employee 30/04/07 14/04/08 Share Plan2,6 30/04/07 14/04/09 30/04/07 14/04/10 n/a n/a n/a 888 All-Employee 30/04/07 14/04/08 30/04/17 Share Plan3,6 30/04/07 14/04/09 30/04/17 30/04/07 14/04/10 30/04/17 888 All-Employee 15/01/08 15/01/09 Share Plan2 15/01/08 15/01/10 15/01/08 15/01/11 15/01/08 15/01/12 n/a n/a n/a n/a 888 All-Employee 15/01/08 15/01/09 15/01/18 Share Plan3 15/01/08 15/01/10 15/01/18 15/01/08 15/01/11 15/01/18 15/01/08 15/01/12 15/01/18 £nil 337,096 £nil 337,096 £nil 337,097 £nil 233,260 £nil 145,787 £nil 145,787 £nil 138,845 £nil 138,845 £nil 138,845 337,096 137.75p 233,260 147.00p 138,845 137.75p 55,621 132.75 45,508 132.75 62,480 147.00p 76,365 147.00p 7,636 147.00p 6,248 147.00p £nil £nil £nil £nil £nil £nil £nil £nil £nil £nil £nil £nil £nil £nil £nil £nil £nil £nil £nil £nil £nil £nil £nil £nil £nil £nil £nil £nil 167,351 167,351 167,351 167,352 55,621 55,621 45,508 45,508 62,480 39,050 39,050 76,365 47,728 47,728 7,636 4,773 4,772 6,248 3,905 3,905 7,500 7,500 7,500 7,500 42,500 42,500 42,500 42,500 337,096 337,096 337,097 233,260 145,787 145,787 138,845 138,845 138,845 167,351 167,351 167,351 167,352 55,621 55,621 45,508 45,508 62,480 39,050 39,050 76,365 47,728 47,728 7,636 4,773 4,772 6,248 3,905 3,905 7,500 7,500 7,500 7,500 42,500 42,500 42,500 42,500 All awards were made through the 888 All-Employee Share Plan during the year. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 43 16254888COM FRONT.indd 43 16254888COM FRONT.indd 43 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Remuneration Report continued Heading 1 Date of appointment, being 18 June 2006, for Gigi Levy. 2 Awarded as a share award. 3 Awarded as a nil cost option. 4 This award was granted pursuant to Gigi Levy’s service agreement This award was granted to Gigi Levy upon his recruitment as a one-off award to secure his appointment. 5 This award was made in addition to the annual cash bonus noted on pages 39 and 40, subject to the annual cash bonus criteria being met. 6 Vesting subject to performance conditions, as described on pages 39 and 40. The closing price of one Ordinary Share was 99.25p at 31 December 2008. The highest closing price during 2008 was 163p and the lowest was 64p. No Director was materially interested during the year in any contract which was significant in relation to the business of the Company otherwise than as disclosed in the Prospectus or these Report and Accounts. The parts of the remuneration report from Directors’ Remuneration Summary to this point have been audited in accordance with schedule 7A of the Companies Act 1985. Total shareholder return The chart below shows the value of an investment of £100 Sterling in the Company’s shares and in the FTSE 250 Index from admission to 31 December 2008. The Directors have chosen the FTSE 250 Index as the most appropriate comparator index as the Company was a constituent member until October 2006 and was re-included in that index from February 2008. Value of £100 sterling in 888 since IPO v. FTSE 250 180 160 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0 5 0 / 9 / 9 2 5 0 / 0 1 / 9 2 5 0 / 1 1 / 9 2 5 0 / 2 1 / 9 2 6 0 / 1 / 9 2 6 0 / 3 / 1 6 0 / 4 / 1 6 0 / 5 / 1 6 0 / 6 / 1 6 0 / 7 / 1 6 0 / 8 / 1 6 0 / 9 / 1 6 0 / 0 1 / 1 6 0 / 1 1 / 1 6 0 / 2 1 / 1 7 0 / 1 / 1 7 0 / 2 / 1 7 0 / 3 / 1 7 0 / 4 / 1 7 0 / 5 / 1 7 0 / 6 / 1 7 0 / 7 / 1 7 0 / 8 / 1 7 0 / 9 / 1 7 0 / 0 1 / 1 7 0 / 1 1 / 1 7 0 / 2 1 / 1 8 0 / 1 / 1 8 0 / 2 / 1 8 0 / 3 / 1 8 0 / 4 / 1 8 0 / 5 / 1 8 0 / 6 / 1 8 0 / 7 / 1 8 0 / 8 / 1 8 0 / 9 / 1 8 0 / 0 1 / 1 8 0 / 1 1 / 1 8 0 / 2 1 / 1 FTSE 250 888 Approval This report was approved by the Board and signed on its behalf by: Brian Mattingley Chairman of the Remuneration Committee 30 March 2009 44 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM FRONT.indd 44 16254888COM FRONT.indd 44 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Directors’ Report The Directors submit to the members their Annual Report and Accounts of the Group for the year ended 31 December 2008. The report on Corporate Governance and the Remuneration Report on pages 38 and 44 respectively form part of this Directors’ Report. Principal Activities During 2008 the Group’s principal activities were the provision of online gaming entertainment to end customers as well as business partners. A review of the business is given in the Chairman’s statement on pages 6 to 7, the Chief Executive’s Review on pages 8 to 11 and the Enhanced Business Review on pages 12 to 30. The principal subsidiary undertakings are listed on page 70. Results The Group’s Profit before tax for the financial year (excluding share benefit charges of US$8.4 million) of US$49 million is reported in the Consolidated Income Statement on page 50. It is the intention of the Directorrs to declare a final dividend in respect of the financial year in an amount of 2.5 cents per share. Directors and their Interests Biographical details of the current Board of Directors are shown on page 34. The Directors who served during the year are shown below: Richard Kilsby Gigi Levy Aviad Kobrine John Anderson Shay Ben-Yitzhak (appointed 30 August 2005 and reappointed 21 May 2008) (appointed 18 June 2006 and reappointed 30 May 2007) (appointed 30 August 2005 and reappointed 21 May 2008) (appointed 30 August 2005 and reappointed 30 May 2007) (appointed 30 August 2005 and reappointed 21 May 2008) Michael Constantine (appointed 30 August 2005 and Brian Mattingley Amos Pickel reappointed 30 May 2007) (appointed 30 August 2005 and reappointed 30 May 2007) (appointed 14 March 2006 and reappointed 30 May 2007) The beneficial and non-beneficial interests of the Directors in shares of the Company are set out in the Remuneration Report on pages 38 to 44. Principal Shareholder Trust E Shaked Shares Trust O Shaked Shares Trust Ben-Yitzhak Family Shares Trust Except as noted above, none of the Directors had any interests in the shares of the Company or in any material contract or arrangement with the Company or any of its subsidiaries. Brian Mattingley, Michael Constantine and Amos Pickel will retire by rotation at the Annual General Meeting and, being eligible, will offer themselves for re-election. Share Capital Changes in the Company’s share capital during the financial year are given in note 18 to the Consolidated Financial Statements on page 69. As at 31 December 2008, the Company’s issued share capital comprised 342,848,261 ordinary shares of 0.005p each. Rights Attaching to Ordinary Shares The rights and obligations attaching to ordinary shares are set out in the Company’s Articles of Association. Holders of ordinary shares are entitled to attend and speak at general meetings of the Company, to appoint one or more proxies and to exercise voting rights. Holders of ordinary shares may receive a dividend and on liquidation may share in the assets of the Company. Holders of ordinary shares are entitled to receive the Company’s Annual Report. Subject to meeting certain thresholds, holders of ordinary shares may requisition a general meeting of the Company or the proposal of resolutions at general meetings. Deadlines for Exercising Voting Rights Electronic and paper proxy appointment and voting instructions must be received by the Company’s Registrars not later than 48 hours before a general meeting. Restrictions on Transfer of Shares and Limitations on Holdings There are no restrictions on transfer or limitations on the holding of ordinary shares other than under restrictions imposed by law or regulation (for example, insider trading laws) or pursuant to the Company’s share dealing code. Substantial Shareholdings As at 31 December 2008 the Company had been notified of the following interests in 3% or more of its share capital: Number of % Issued Shares Share Capital 86,283,534 86,283,534 37,122,358 25.2 25.2 10.8 Annual Report & Accounts 2008 45 16254888COM FRONT.indd 45 16254888COM FRONT.indd 45 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Directors’ Report continued Heading Charitable Contributions Contributions for charitable purposes were made during the year amounting to US$107,821 (2007: $232,000). Directors’ Responsibility Statement The Directors are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Company, for safeguarding the assets, for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities and for the preparation of a Directors’ report which complies with the Gibraltar Companies (Accounts) Act 1999, the Gibraltar Companies (Consolidated Accounts) Act 1999 and the Gibraltar Companies Act. Financial statements are published on the Group’s website in accordance with legislation in the UK governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements, which may vary from legislation in other jurisdictions. The maintenance and integrity of the Group’s website is the responsibility of the Directors. The Directors’ responsibility also extends to the ongoing integrity of the financial statements contained therein. The Directors are responsible for preparing the annual report and the financial statements. The Directors are required to prepare financial statements for the Group in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) and have also chosen to prepare financial statements for the Company in accordance with IFRSs. Shareholder Agreements and Consent Requirements There are no known arrangements under which financial rights are held by a person other than the holder of the shares. A Relationship Agreement governing the relationship between the above Principal Shareholder Trusts and the Company was entered into in connection with the Company’s flotation. The Relationship Agreement provides that all transactions between the Group and the Principal Shareholder Trusts will be on a normal business basis, that the Group will be allowed to carry on business independently of them and that the Principal Shareholder Trusts will not cause the Group to contravene the Combined Code unless required by law or as contemplated in the Relationship Agreement. It further provides that each of the Principal Shareholder Trusts will not solicit Group employees without consent, that only independent Directors can vote on proposals to amend the Relationship Agreement, that the Principal Shareholder Trusts will consult the Group prior to disposing of a significant number of shares in order to maintain an orderly market and shall not disclose confidential information unless required to do so or having first received the Company’s consent. The Relationship Agreement also includes restrictions on the Principal Shareholder Trusts power to appoint Directors and includes obligations on the trusts to ensure that the majority of the Board, excluding the Chairman, is independent. The Principal Shareholder Trusts can nominate a Non-executive Director for appointment to the Board and the Directors will refer the appointment of the nominated person to the Remuneration Committee. In the event that this right is exercised and it results in fewer than half the Board (excluding the Chairman of the Board) being independent Directors, such appointment shall only become effective upon the appointment to the Board of an additional independent Director. Such restrictions and obligations apply whilst the E Shaked Shares Trust and O Shaked Shares Trust collectively or the Ben-Yitzhak Family Shares Trust individually hold not less than 7.5%. Change of Control Other than the Group’s gaming licences where change of control is subject to prior consent, there are no contracts to which the Group is a party which would allow the counterparty to terminate or alter those contractual arrangements in the event of a change of control of the Group. 46 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM FRONT.indd 46 16254888COM FRONT.indd 46 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Auditors A resolution for the reappointment of BDO Stoy Hayward LLP and BDO Orion Limited as auditors of the Company will be proposed at the 2009 Annual General Meeting. During the year ended 31 December 2008 BDO Stoy Hayward LLP were appointed auditors for the purposes of the Company preparing financial statements as required pursuant to the Listing Rules of the UK Listing Authority. BDO Orion Limited have been appointed to act as auditors for the purposes of issuing an audit report pursuant to Section 10 of the Gibraltar Companies (Accounts) Act 1999 to be filed with the Gibraltar Companies Registry. On behalf of the Board Gigi Levy Chief Executive Offi cer 30 March 2009 Group and Parent Company Financial Statements Company law requires the Directors to prepare such financial statements in accordance with the Gibraltar Companies (Accounts) Act 1999, the Gibraltar Companies (Consolidated Accounts) Act 1999 and the Gibraltar Companies Act. International Accounting Standard 1 requires that financial statements present fairly for each financial year the Group and Company’s financial position, financial performance and cash flows. This requires the faithful representation of the effects of transactions, other events and conditions in accordance with the definitions and recognition criteria for assets, liabilities, income and expenses set out in the International Accounting Standards Board’s “Framework for the preparation and presentation of financial statements”. In virtually all circumstances, a fair presentation will be achieved by compliance with all applicable IFRSs. A fair presentation also requires the Directors to: l consistently select and apply appropriate accounting policies; l present information, including accounting policies, in a manner that provides relevant, reliable, comparable and understandable information; and l provide additional disclosures when compliance with the specific requirements in IFRSs is insufficient to enable members to understand the impact of particular transactions, other events and conditions on the entity’s financial position and financial performance. We confirm, to the best of our knowledge: (a) the financial statements, prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the EU, give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit or loss of the Group and the undertakings included in the consolidation taken as a whole; and (b) the ‘Enhanced Business Review’, includes a fair review of the development and performance of the business and the position of the Group and the undertakings included in the consolidation taken as a whole, together with a description of the principal risks and uncertainties that they face. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 47 16254888COM FRONT.indd 47 16254888COM FRONT.indd 47 16254 08/04/2009 Proof 8 08/04/2009 17:47 08/04/2009 17:47 Independent Auditors’ Report to the Shareholders of 888 Holdings Public Limited Company We have audited the Group and the Company financial statements (the “financial statements”) of 888 Holdings Public Limited Company for the year ended 31 December 2008 which comprise the Group Income Statement, the Group and Company Balance Sheets, the Group and Company Cash Flow Statements, the Group and Company Statement of Recognised Income and Expenses and the related notes 1 to 26 to the Group Financial Statements and notes 1 to 12 to the Company Financial Statements. These financial statements have been prepared under the accounting policies set out therein. We have also audited the parts of the remuneration report described as having been audited. Respective Responsibilities of Directors and Auditors The Directors’ responsibilities for preparing the Annual Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRSs”) as adopted by the European Union are set out in the Statement of Directors’ Responsibilities. 888 Holdings Public Limited Company has complied with the requirements of rules 9.8.6 and 9.8.8 of the Listing Rules in preparing its Annual Report and has also complied with schedule 7A of the UK Companies Act 1985 as if it was incorporated in the UK. Our responsibility is to audit the financial statements in accordance with relevant legal and regulatory requirements and International Standards on Auditing (UK and Ireland). We report to you our opinion as to whether the financial statements give a true and fair view and whether the financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with the Gibraltar Companies (Accounts) Act 1999, Gibraltar Companies (Consolidated Accounts) Act 1999 and the Gibraltar Companies Act and the part of the Remuneration Report described as having been audited, has been properly prepared in accordance with Schedule 7A of the UK Companies Act 1985. We also report to you if, in our opinion, the Directors’ Report is not consistent with the financial statements, if the Company has not kept proper accounting records, if we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit or if information specified by the Listing Rules and Gibraltar legislation is not disclosed. We review whether the Corporate Governance Statement reflects the Group’s compliance with the nine provisions of the 2006 FRC Combined Code specified for our review by the Listing Rules of the Financial Services Authority, and we report if it does not. We are not required to consider whether the Board’s statements on internal control cover all risks and controls, or form an opinion on the effectiveness of the Group’s corporate governance procedures or its risk and control procedures. We read other information contained in the Annual Report and consider whether it is consistent with the audited financial statements. The other information comprises only the Directors’ Report, Chairman’s Statement, Chief Executive’s Review, Enhanced Business Review, Risk report, Corporate Social Responsibility Report, Corporate Governance Statement and the unaudited part of the Remuneration Report. We consider the implications for our report if we become aware of any apparent misstatements or material inconsistencies with the financial statements. Our responsibilities do not extend to any other information. Our report has been prepared pursuant to the terms of our engagement letter and for no other purpose. No person is entitled to rely on this report unless such a person is a person entitled to rely upon this report by virtue of the terms of our engagement letter or has been expressly authorised to do so by our prior written consent. Save as above, we do not accept responsibility for this report to any other person or for any other purpose and we hereby expressly disclaim any and all such liability. Basis of Audit Opinion We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK and Ireland) issued by the Auditing Practices Board. An audit includes examination, on a test basis, of evidence relevant to the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements and the part of the Remuneration Report described as having been audited. It also includes an assessment of the significant estimates and judgements made by the Directors in the preparation of the financial statements, and of whether the accounting policies are appropriate to the Group’s and Company’s circumstances, 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 that the financial statements and the parts of the Remuneration Report described as having been audited are free from material misstatement, whether caused by fraud or other irregularity or error. In forming our opinion we also evaluated the overall adequacy of the presentation of information in the financial statements and the part of the Remuneration Report to be audited. 48 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM BACK.indd 48 16254888COM BACK.indd 48 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Opinion In our opinion: l the Group financial statements give a true and fair view, in accordance with IFRSs as adopted by the European Union, of the state of the Group’s and the Company’s affairs as at 31 December 2008 and of the Group’s profit for the year then ended; and l the financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with the Gibraltar Companies (Accounts) Act 1999, Gibraltar Companies (Consolidated Accounts) Act 1999 and the Gibraltar Companies Act; and l the part of the Remuneration Report described as having been audited has been properly prepared in accordance with Schedule 7A of the UK Companies Act 1985; and l the information provided in the Directors’ Report is consistent with the financial statements; and l we have nothing to report to you in respect of our responsibility set out above in relation to the Company keeping proper accounting records, the auditors receiving information and explanations for our audit and disclosures regarding Directors’ remuneration and other transactions Emphasis of Matter — Regulatory issues In forming our opinion, which is not qualified, we have considered the adequacy of, and draw attention to, the disclosures made in note 26 to the financial statements concerning the residual risk of an adverse impact arising from the Group having had customers in the US prior to the enactment of the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act. Note 26 includes a statement that the Board has not been able to identify reliably at this stage what, if any, liability may arise and accordingly no provision has been made. BDO Stoy Hayward LLP Chartered Accountants 55 Baker Street London W1U 7EU UK 30 March 2009 BDO Orion Limited Registered Auditors Montagu Pavilion 8–10 Queensway Gibraltar Annual Report & Accounts 2008 49 16254888COM BACK.indd 49 16254888COM BACK.indd 49 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Group Income Statement For the year ended 31 December 2008 Total revenue Other operating income Total operating income Operating expenses Research and development expenses Selling and marketing expenses Administrative expenses Operating profit before share benefit charges Share benefit charges Operating profit Finance income Profit before tax before share benefit charges Share benefit charges Profit before tax Taxation Profit from continuing operations Loss from discontinued operations Profit after tax for the year attributable to equity holders of parent Earnings per share Continuing operations Basic Diluted Discontinued operations Basic Diluted Total Basic Diluted Year ended 31 December 2008 US$’000 Year ended 31 December 2007 US$’000 Note 2 2 4 5 21 7 25 Note 8 25(d) 256,862 5,692 262,554 84,637 27,379 80,155 33,069 45,705 8,391 37,314 2,928 48,633 8,391 40,242 3,057 37,185 – 37,185 213,383 3,563 216,946 64,864 23,496 70,897 24,660 40,829 7,800 33,029 4,957 45,786 7,800 37,986 3,199 34,787 (552) 34,235 Year ended 31 December 2008 Year ended 31 December 2007 10.9¢ 10.7¢ – – 10.9¢ 10.7¢ 10.3¢ 10.1¢ (0.2)¢ (0.2)¢ 10.1¢ 9.9¢ Group Statement of Recognised Income and Expenses For the year ended 31 December 2008 Actuarial movements on severance pay liability Net expense recognised directly in equity Net profit for the year Note 6 Total recognised income and expense for the year attributable to equity holders of the parent The notes on pages 54 to 78 form part of these financial statements. Year ended 31 December 2008 US$’000 Year ended 31 December 2007 US$’000 (949) (949) 37,185 36,236 – – 34,235 34,235 50 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM BACK.indd 50 16254888COM BACK.indd 50 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Group Balance Sheet At 31 December 2008 Assets Non-current assets Intangible assets Property, plant and equipment Financial assets Deferred taxes Current assets Cash and cash equivalents Trade and other receivables Total assets Equity and liabilities Equity attributable to equity holders of the parent Share capital Share premium Available-for-sale reserve Retained earnings Total equity attributable to equity holders of the parent Liabilities Current liabilities Trade and other payables Liabilities to Customers Total liabilities Total equity and liabilities 31 December 2008 US$’000 31 December 2007 US$’000 Note 11 12 13 14 15 16 17, 18 18 18 18 19 44,812 19,740 223 606 65,381 98,444 18,673 117,117 182,498 3,115 65 (536) 108,716 111,360 37,854 33,284 71,138 182,498 40,656 16,496 654 537 58,343 104,308 19,530 123,838 182,181 3,097 – (105) 89,735 92,727 63,040 26,414 89,454 182,181 The financial statements on pages 50 to 78 were approved and authorised for issue by the Board of Directors on 30 March 2009 and were signed on its behalf by: Gigi Levy Chief Executive Offi cer Aviad Kobrine Chief Financial Officer The notes on pages 54 to 78 form part of these financial statements. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 51 16254888COM BACK.indd 51 16254888COM BACK.indd 51 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Group Statement of Cash Flows For the year ended 31 December 2008 Year ended 31 December 2008 US$’000 Year ended 31 December 2008 US$’000 Year ended 31 December 2007 US$’000 Year ended 31 December 2007 US$’000 Cash flows from operating activities Profit before income tax Adjustments for Depreciation Loss on sale of property, plant and equipment Amortisation Interest received Share benefit charges Decrease/(increase) in trade receivables Increase in other accounts receivables Increase in trade payables Increase in liabilities to customers (Decrease)/increase in other accounts payables Cash generated from operations Income tax paid Net cash generated from operating activities Cash flows from investing activities Acquisition of assets comprising of the online bingo business of Globalcom Limited (see note 10) Purchase of property, plant and equipment Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment Interest received Acquisition of available for sale assets Acquisition of intangible assets Internally generated intangible assets Net cash used in investing activities Cash flows from financing activities Exercise of Market Value options Dividends paid Net cash used in financing activities Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year The notes on pages 54 to 78 form part of these financial statements. 40,242 5,504 75 1,826 (3,255) 8,391 52,783 4,404 (3,441) 810 6,870 (669) 60,757 (4,363) (25,311) (8,852) 29 3,255 – (513) (5,303) 65 (25,628) 37,434 4,192 – 1,550 (5,434) 7,800 45,542 (7,241) (2,620) 2,186 3,743 7,663 49,273 (3,075) 56,394 46,198 (17,142) (7,574) – 5,434 (759) – – – (36,205) (20,041) (36,205) (10,048) 114,356 104,308 (36,695) (25,563) (5,864) 104,308 98,444 52 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM BACK.indd 52 16254888COM BACK.indd 52 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 1 General information Company description and activities 888 Holdings Public Limited Company (the “Company“) and its subsidiaries (together the “Group”) was founded in 1997 and originally operated as a holding company domiciled in the British Virgin Islands. On 12 January 2000, the Company was continued in Antigua and Barbuda as a corporation under the International Business Corporation Act 1982 with registered number 12512. On 17 December 2003, the Company redomiciled in Gibraltar with the Company number 90099. On 4 October 2005, the Company listed on the London Stock Exchange. The Group is the owner of innovative proprietary software solutions providing a range of virtual online gaming services over the internet including Casino, Poker, Bingo, Sport and Backgammon to end users and also provide these services through business partners. In addition the Group provide payment services, customer support and online advertising. Cassava Enterprises (Gibraltar) Limited and Brigend Limited (both subsidiaries) carried out the operations of the Group during the year, principally under the name www.888.com under the terms of the gaming licences issued in Gibraltar. Definitions In these financial statements: The Company The Group Subsidiaries Related parties 888 Holdings Public Limited Company. 888 Holdings Public Limited Company and its subsidiaries. Companies over which the Company has control (as defined in International Accounting Standard 27 “Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements” and whose accounts are consolidated with those of the Company). As defined in International Accounting Standard 24 — “Related Party Disclosures”. 2 Significant accounting policies The significant accounting policies applied in the preparation of the financial statements are as follows: Basis of preparation The consolidated financial statements of the Group have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards, including International Accounting Standards (“IAS”) and Interpretations, adopted by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”) and endorsed for use by companies listed on an EU regulated market. The significant accounting policies applied in the financial statements of the Group in the prior years are applied consistently in these financial statements. The financial statements are presented in thousands of US dollars (US$’000) because that is the currency the Group primarily operates in. The consolidated financial statements comply with the Gibraltar Companies (Accounts) Act 1999, the Gibraltar Companies (Consolidated Accounts) Act 1999 and the Gibraltar Companies Act. The following standards and interpretations, issued by the IASB or the International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee (IFRIC), are effective for the first time in the current financial year and have been adopted by the Group with no significant impact on its consolidated results or financial position: IFRIC 11 IFRS 2 — Group and treasury share transactions (effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 March 2007). IFRIC 11 has been endorsed for use in the EU. The Group has adopted IFRIC 11 ‘Group and treasury share transactions’. The effect of adopting this is that the parent Company recognises as a cost of investment the value of its own shares that it makes available for the purpose of granting share options to employees or contractors of its subsidiaries. This has no impact on the Group financial statements, and no impact on the prior year profit or net assets of the parent Company. IFRIC 12 — Service concession arrangements (effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2008). IFRIC 12 was due to be applied in these financial statements but it has not yet been endorsed for use in the EU. However, it has no impact on these financial statements. IFRIC 14 — The Limit on a Defined Benefit Asset Minimum Funding Requirements and their Interaction (effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2008). IFRIC 14 has been endorsed for use in the EU. The following standards and interpretations, issued by the IASB or IFRIC, have not been adopted by the Group as these were not effective for the year 2008. The Group is currently assessing the impact these standards and interpretations will have on the presentation of its consolidated results in future periods: Annual Report & Accounts 2008 53 16254888COM BACK.indd 53 16254888COM BACK.indd 53 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 2 Significant accounting policies continued IAS 1 (Amendment) — Presentation of Financial Statements (effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009) — IAS 1 has been endorsed for use in the EU. IFRIC 13 — Customer Loyalty Programmes (effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 July 2008). IFRIC 13 has been endorsed for use in the EU. IAS 23 (Amendment) — Borrowing costs (effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009). IAS 23 has been endorsed for use in the EU. IAS 27 (Amendment) — Consolidated and separate financial statements (effective for periods beginning on or after 1 July 2009). IAS 27 has not been endorsed for use in the EU. IFRS 2 (Amendment) — Vesting conditions and cancellations (effective for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009). IFRS 2 (Amendment) has been endorsed for use in the EU. IFRS 3 (Revised) — Business combinations (effective for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009). IFRS 3 (Revised) has not yet been endorsed for use in the EU. IFRS 8 — Operating segments (effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009) contains requirements for the disclosure of information about an entity’s operating segments and also about the entity’s products and services, the geographical areas in which it operates, and its major customers. The standard is concerned only with disclosure and replaces IAS 14 — Segment reporting. IFRS 8 has been endorsed for use in the EU. Amendments to IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation and IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements — Puttable Financial Instruments and Obligations arising on Liquidation (effective for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009). These amendments have not been endorsed for use in the EU. IFRS 1 (revised) — First time adoption of IFRS (effective for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 July 2009). IFRS 1 (revised) has not yet been endorsed for use in the EU. IFRIC 15 — Agreements for the Construction of Real Estate (effective for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009). IFRIC 15 has not yet been endorsed for use in the EU. IFRIC 16 — Hedges of a net investment in a foreign operation (effective for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 October 2008). IFRIC 16 has not yet been endorsed for use in the EU. IFRIC 17 — Distributions of non-cash assets to owners (effective for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 July 2009). IFRIC 17 has not yet been endorsed for use in the EU. IFRIC 18 — Transfer of Assets from Customers (effective for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 July 2009). IFRIC 18 has not yet been endorsed for use in the EU. IAS 39 (amended) — Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement: Eligible Hedged Items (effective for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 July 2009) IAS 39 (amended) has not yet been endorsed for use in the EU. IAS 39 (amended) — Reclassification of financial assets: effective date and transition (effective for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 July 2009). IAS 39 (amended) has not yet been endorsed for use in the EU. IFRS 1 First Time Adoption of IFRS and IAS 27 Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements (amended) effective for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009. This amendment has not yet been endorsed for use in the EU. IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement and IFRS 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures (amended) (effective for periods beginning on or after 1 July 2008). This amendment has not been adopted for use in the EU. Critical accounting policies, estimates and judgements The preparation of consolidated financial statements under IFRS requires the Group to make estimates and judgements that affect the application of policies and reported amounts. Estimates and judgements are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may differ from these estimates. 54 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM BACK.indd 54 16254888COM BACK.indd 54 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 2 Significant accounting policies continued Included in this note are accounting policies which cover areas that the Directors consider require estimates and assumptions which have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amount of assets and liabilities within the next financial year. These policies together with references to the related notes to the financial statements can be found below: Taxation Intangible assets Impairment of Goodwill and intangible assets Share-based payments Regulatory compliance and contingent liabilities Note 7 Note 11 Note 11 Note 21 Note 26 Discontinued operations As a result of enactment of the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (“UIGEA”) in October 2006, the Group withdrew from offering real-money activity to the US facing market. Although the Group did not operate the US facing business as a separate business, it was a separate geographical segment of the Group’s business and in accordance with IFRS 5 — “Non-Current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations” the income statement and related notes were required to show continued and discontinued operations separately. There was no impact of these matters in respect of the year ended 31 December 2008. Basis of consolidation The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries. The subsidiaries are companies controlled by 888 Holdings Public Limited Company. Control exists where the Company has the power to govern the financial and operating policies of an entity so as to obtain benefits from its activities. Subsidiaries are consolidated from the date the parent gained control until such time as control ceases. The financial statements of the subsidiaries are included in the consolidated financial statements using the purchase method of accounting. On the date of the acquisition, the assets and liabilities of a subsidiary are measured at their fair values and any excess of the fair value of the consideration over the fair values of the identifiable net assets acquired is recognised as goodwill. Inter-Company transactions and balances are eliminated on consolidation. The financial statements of subsidiaries are prepared for the same reporting period as the parent Company and using consistent accounting policies. Total revenue Revenue is recognised to the extent that it is probable that economic benefits will flow to the Group and the revenue can be reliably measured. Revenue is recognised in the accounting periods in which the transactions occurred. Total revenue consists of revenue from online gaming and revenue generated from processing customers’ cross currency deposits and withdrawals. Total revenue comprises of the following: Casino Casino winnings that are the differences between the amounts of bets placed by customers less amounts won by customers. Poker Ring games: Tournaments: Rake, which is the commission charged from each winning hand played. Entry fees charged for participation in Poker tournaments are recognised when the tournament has concluded. Emerging Offerings Revenue from Emerging Offerings is defined as the commission charged from winnings or entry fees charged for participation in a tournament and winnings from Sportsbook activity. In the case of white label activity, Revenue is the net commission charged. Casino winnings, revenues from the Poker business and Emerging Offerings are stated after deduction of certain bonuses granted to customers. Other operating income Other operating income consists mainly of revenue generated from processing customers’ cross currency deposits and withdrawals. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 55 16254888COM BACK.indd 55 16254888COM BACK.indd 55 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 2 Significant accounting policies continued Foreign currency Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in non-US dollar currencies are translated into US dollar equivalents using year end spot foreign exchange rates. Non-monetary assets and liabilities are translated using exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. Exchange rate differences on foreign currency transactions are included in administrative expenses. The results and financial position of all Group entities that have a functional currency different from US dollars are translated into the presentation currency as follows: (i) monetary assets and liabilities for each balance sheet presented are translated at the closing rate at the date of that balance sheet; (ii) income and expenses for each income statement are translated at an average exchange rate (unless this average is not a reasonable approximation of the cumulative effect of the rates prevailing on the transaction dates, in which case income and expenses are translated at the dates of the transactions); and (iii) exchange rate differences on translation of Group entities that have functional currencies different from US dollars are included in administrative expenses. Taxation The tax expense represents tax payable for the year based on currently applicable tax rates. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognised where the carrying amount of an asset or liability in the balance sheet differs from its tax base. It is accounted for using the balance sheet liability method. Recognition of deferred tax assets is restricted to those instances where it is probable that taxable profit will be available against which the difference can be utilised. Such assets and liabilities are not recognised if the temporary differences arise from goodwill or from the initial recognition (other than in a business combination) of other assets and liabilities in a transaction that affects neither the taxable profit nor the accounting profit. The amount of the asset or liability is determined using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date and are expected to apply when the deferred tax liabilities/assets are settled/recovered. Intangible assets Acquisitions Identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities that meet the conditions for recognition under IFRS 3 are recognised at their fair value at the acquisition date. The identified intangibles are amortised over the useful economic life of the assets. For acquisitions during the year 2007, the useful economic life of the intangible assets acquired is estimated to be between three months and four years. Intangible assets are reviewed annually for evidence of impairment. Any impairment in carrying value is charged to the consolidated income statement. Internally generated intangible assets Expenditure incurred on development activities is capitalised only when the expenditure will lead to new or substantially improved products or processes, the products or processes are technically and commercially feasible and the Group has sufficient resources to complete development. All other development expenditure is expensed. Subsequent expenditure on capitalised intangible assets is capitalised only where it clearly increases the economic benefits to be derived from the asset to which it relates. The Group estimates the useful life of these assets as between 3 and 5 years. Goodwill Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of a business combination over the interest in the fair value of the identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities acquired. Cost comprises the fair value of any assets acquired, liabilities assumed and equity instruments issued, plus any direct costs of acquisition. Goodwill is capitalised as an intangible asset with any impairment in carrying value being charged to the consolidated income statement. Where the fair value of identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities exceed the fair value of consideration paid, the excess is credited in full to the consolidated income statement on the acquisition. Property, plant and equipment Property, plant and equipment is stated at historic cost less accumulated depreciation. Carrying amounts are reviewed at each balance sheet date for impairment. Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method, at annual rates estimated to write off the cost of the assets less their estimated residual values over their expected useful lives. The annual depreciation rates are as follows: IT equipment Office furniture and equipment Motor vehicles Leasehold improvements 33% 7%–15% 15% Over the shorter of the term of the lease or useful lives 56 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM BACK.indd 56 16254888COM BACK.indd 56 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 2 Significant accounting policies continued Impairment of non-financial assets Impairment tests on goodwill and other intangible assets with indefinite useful economic lives are undertaken annually on 31 December, and where applicable an impairment loss is recognized immediately in the income statement. Other non-financial assets are subject to impairment tests whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amount may not be recoverable. Where the carrying value of an asset exceeds its recoverable amount (i.e. the higher of value in use and fair value less costs to sell), the asset is written down accordingly. Where it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, the impairment test is carried out on the asset’s cash generating unit (i.e. the lowest group of assets in which the asset belongs for which there are separately identifiable cash flows). Financial instruments The Group does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading purposes. Trade receivables Trade receivables are recognised at fair value and carried at amortised cost and principally comprise amounts due from credit-card companies and from e-payment companies. An estimate for doubtful debts is made when collection of the full amount is no longer probable. Bad debts are written off when identified. Cash and cash equivalents Cash comprises cash in hand and balances with banks. Cash equivalents are short-term, highly liquid investments that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash. They include short-term deposits originally purchased with maturities of three months or less. Equity Equity issued by the Company is recorded as the proceeds received, net of direct issue costs. Trade and other payables Trade and other payables are recognised at fair value and carried at amortised cost. Liabilities to Customers Liabiltiies to customers comprises the amounts that customers place in the Group’s electronic “wallet” or bankroll, including provision for bonuses granted by the Group, less management fees and charges applied to customer accounts, along with full provision for jackpots. These amounts are repayable on demand in accordance with the applicable terms and conditions. Available-for-sale financial assets Available-for-sale financial assets comprise non-derivative financial assets not included in any of the above financial asset categories are classified as available-for-sale and comprise principally the Group’s investments in entities not qualifying as subsidiaries. They are carried at fair value with changes in fair value recognised directly in a separate component of equity. Where there is a significant decline in the fair value of an available for sale financial asset the full amount of the impairment, including any amount previously charged to equity, is recognised in the income statement. Chargebacks The cost of chargebacks is included in operating expenses. Leases Leases are classified as finance leases wherever the terms of the lease transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to the Group. All other leases are classified as operating leases and rentals payable are charged to income on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. Provisions Provisions are recognised when the Group has a present or constructive obligation as a result of a past event from which it is probable that it will result in an outflow of economic benefits that can be reasonably estimated. Segment information A business segment is a distinguishable component of the Group that is engaged in providing an individual product or service or a group of related products or services and that is subject to risks and returns that are different from those of other business segments. A geographical segment is a distinguishable component of the Group that is engaged in providing products or services within a particular environment and that is subject to risks and returns that are different from those of components operating in other economic environments. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 57 16254888COM BACK.indd 57 16254888COM BACK.indd 57 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 2 Significant accounting policies continued The Group operates in the following online gaming segments: l l l Casino Poker Emerging Offerings comprises mainly the newly established B2B business, Bingo business, 888’s Sportsbook, Live dealer offering and 888’s Backgammon offering. Dividends Dividends are recognised when they become legally payable. In the case of interim dividends this is when paid. In the case of final dividends, this is when approved by the shareholders at the Annual General Meeting. Share-based payments Where the Company grants its employees or contractors shares, nil priced options or market value options, the fair value at the date of grant is charged to the income statement over the vesting period. Non-market performance conditions are taken into account by adjusting the number of instruments expected to vest at each balance sheet date so that, ultimately, the cumulative amount recognised over the vesting period is based on the number of instruments that eventually vest. 3 Segment information Business segments Total revenue Other operating income Total operating income Result Segment result Unallocated corporate expenses1 Operating profit Finance income Tax expense Profit for the year attributable to equity holders of parent Assets Unallocated corporate assets Total assets Liabilities Segment liabilities — Poker Segment liabilities — Casino Segment liabilities — Emerging Offerings Unallocated corporate liabilities Total liabilities 1 Including share benefit charges of US$8,391,000. Year ended 31 December 2008 Casino US$’000 135,069 3,621 138,690 Poker US$’000 77,252 2,071 79,323 Emerging Offerings US$’000 44,541 – 44,541 98,865 37,358 23,101 Consolidated US$’000 256,862 5,692 262,554 159,324 122,010 37,314 2,928 (3,057) 37,185 182,498 182,498 23,275 5,681 2,524 39,658 71,138 58 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM BACK.indd 58 16254888COM BACK.indd 58 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 3 Segment information continued Total revenue Other operating income Total operating income Result Segment result Unallocated corporate expenses1 Operating profit Finance income Tax expense Profit for the year — continuing operations Profit of the year — discontinued operations — note 25(a) Profit for the year attributable to equity holders of parent Assets Unallocated corporate assets Total assets Liabilities Segment liabilities — Poker Segment liabilities — Casino Segment liabilities — Emerging Offerings Deferred acquisition liability — Emerging Offerings Unallocated corporate liabilities Total liabilities 1 Including share benefit charges of US$7,800,000. Year ended 31 December 2007 Casino US$’000 118,120 2,111 120,231 Poker US$’000 80,817 1,452 82,269 Emerging Offerings US$’000 14,446 – 14,446 Consolidated US$’000 213,383 3,563 216,946 74,061 41,814 5,547 121,422 88,393 33,029 4,957 (3,199) 34,787 (552) 34,235 182,181 182,181 20,013 5,533 868 25,145 37,895 89,454 Other than where amounts are allocated specifically to the Casino, Poker and Emerging Offerings segments above, the expenses, assets and liabilities relate jointly to all segments. Any allocation of these items would be arbitrary. Geographical segments The Group’s performance can also be reviewed by considering the geographical markets and geographical locations within which the Group operates. This information is outlined below: Total operating income by geographical market UK Europe (excluding UK) Americas (excluding USA) Rest of World Total operating income Total Revenue Year ended 31 December 2008 US$’000 105,122 112,093 21,743 17,904 256,862 Other operating income Year ended 31 December 2008 US$’000 2,301 2,974 417 – 5,692 Total operating income Year ended 31 December 2008 US$’000 107,423 115,067 22,160 17,904 262,554 Annual Report & Accounts 2008 59 16254888COM BACK.indd 59 16254888COM BACK.indd 59 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 3 Segment information continued UK Europe (excluding UK) Americas (excluding USA) Rest of World Total operating income Assets by geographical location Caribbean Europe (excluding UK) Rest of World 4 Administrative expenses Share benefit charges — all equity-settled Other administrative expenses Administrative expenses — Continuing operations Administrative expenses — Discontinued operations Administrative expenses Total Revenue Year ended 31 December 2007 US$’000 91,404 88,445 17,684 15,850 213,383 Other operating income Year ended 31 December 2007 US$’000 1,597 1,622 344 – 3,563 Total operating income Year ended 31 December 2007 US$’000 93,001 90,067 18,028 15,850 216,946 Carrying amount of segment assets by location Additions to property, plant and equipment Year ended 31 December 2008 US$’000 Year ended 31 December 2007 US$’000 Year ended 31 December 2008 US$’000 Year ended 31 December 2007 US$’000 373 151,468 30,657 182,498 454 161,168 20,559 182,181 192 6,105 2,555 8,852 51 2,546 5,058 7,655 Year ended 31 December 2008 US$’000 Year ended 31 December 2007 US$’000 8,391 24,678 33,069 – 33,069 7,800 16,860 24,660 552 25,212 60 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM BACK.indd 60 16254888COM BACK.indd 60 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 5 Operating profit Operating profit is stated after charging: Staff costs (see note 6) Audit fees Other fees paid to auditors in respect of taxation services Depreciation (within operating expenses) Amortisation (within operating expenses) Chargebacks Exchange losses (gains) Payment service providers’ commissions Share benefit charges — all equity-settled 6 Employee benefits Staff cost comprise of the following elements: Wages and salaries Social security Pension costs Staff costs capitalized in respect of internally generated assets Year ended 31 December 2008 US$’000 Year ended 31 December 2007 US$’000 74,695 381 29 5,504 1,826 4,816 2,630 15,256 8,391 2008 US$’000 69,636 4,966 4,050 78,652 (3,957) 74,695 61,301 349 26 4,192 1,550 2,846 (1,117) 13,359 7,800 2007 US$’000 54,009 4,410 2,882 61,301 – 61,301 In the income statement total staff costs, excluding share benefit charge of US$8,391,000 (2007: US$7,800,000), are included within the following expenditure categories. Operating expenses Research and development expenses Administrative expenses Average headcount number of employees by category: Operation Research and development Administration 2008 US$’000 40,287 20,588 13,820 74,695 2008 Number 574 167 143 884 2007 US$’000 30,967 18,672 11,662 61,301 2007 Number 493 148 124 765 At 31 December 2008 the Company employed 931 (2007: 805) staff. Severance pay liability — Israel The Group’s employees in Israel are eligible to receive certain benefits from the Group in certain defined circumstances. As such the Group operates a defined benefit severance pay plan which requires contributions to be made to separately administrated funds. The method used to determine the current service cost and the present value of the defined benefit obligation, according to IAS 19 ‘Employee Benefits’ is the Projected Unit Credit actuarial cost method. Actuarial gains and losses are recognised by the Group using the equity method. In prior years, the Group neither recorded nor accrued any actuarial gains or losses using the equity method, since there were no material adjustments or effects of actuarial changes. In 2008, the Group recognised actuarial losses according to the equity method as reflected in the consolidated statement of Recognised Income and Expenses. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 61 16254888COM BACK.indd 61 16254888COM BACK.indd 61 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 6 Employee benefits continued The following table summarises the employee benefits figures as included in the Group’s financial statements for 2008 and 2007, respectively: Severance pay liability (within trade and other payables) Income statement Actuarial movements on severance pay liability (deducted from retained earnings) 2008 US$’000 276 1,732 949 The main actuarial assumptions used in determining the fair value of the Group’s employee benefits plan are shown below: Discount rate (nominal)1 Estimated increase in employee benefits costs Voluntary termination rate 2008 % 3.22 3 70 2007 US$’000 280 1,471 – 2007 % 6.5 3 85 1 The discount rates are based on Israeli government bonds and reflect inflation rates of 0.6% and 2.75% in 2008 and 2007, respectively. 7 Taxation Corporate taxes Current tax Deferred tax Taxation expense Profit before taxation Tax at effective tax rate in Gibraltar Effect of overseas taxation Effect of deferred tax originating in overseas jurisdictions Total tax charge for the year Year ended 31 December 2008 US$’000 Year ended 31 December 2007 US$’000 2,988 69 3,057 3,190 9 3,199 Year ended 31 December 2008 US$’000 Year ended 31 December 2007 US$’000 40,242 – 2,988 69 3,057 37,434 – 3,190 9 3,199 Current tax is calculated with reference to the profit of the Company and its subsidiaries in their respective countries of operation: Gibraltar —The Company and its Gibraltar registered subsidiaries are subject to the provisions of the Gibraltar Companies (Taxation and Concessions) Act (the “CTCA”) as tax-exempt companies. Subject to a change of ownership or activity of a tax-exempt company, the grandfathering of tax-exempt benefits in respect of existing tax-exempt companies will extend up to 31 December 2010. Domestic corporate tax in Gibraltar is 27% (2008/2009). Gibraltar’s Chief Minister has announced further reductions in anticipation of the introduction of a flat tax rate of 10% in 2010. A consultation is in place with respect to the new tax regime in Gibraltar but it is widely anticipated, following Government indications that it is expected the new rules will be in place by July 2009 but not come into effect until July 2010. Israel — 888 have entered into certain transfer pricing agreements with the Israeli Income Tax Commissioner. The agreement in respect of Random Logic Limited is effective until the end of 2010. The agreement in respect of the Israeli branch of Intersafe Global Limited was effective until the end of 2007. Accordingly, the Group has discontinued the use of this branch. Domestic corporate tax in Israel in 2008 is 27% (2007: 29%) and is scheduled to go down to 25% from 2010 and onwards. UK — 888’s subsidiary in the UK pays corporate tax in the UK at the applicable rate of 28% (2007: 30%). 62 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM BACK.indd 62 16254888COM BACK.indd 62 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 8 Earnings per share Basic earnings per share from continuing operations Basic earnings per share have been calculated by dividing the profit attributable to ordinary shareholders by the weighted average number of shares in issue during the year. Diluted earnings per share In accordance with IAS 33, “Earnings per share”, the weighted average number of shares for diluted earnings per share takes into account all potentially dilutive shares and share options granted, which are not included in the number of shares for basic earnings per share. In addition, certain employee options have also been excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS as their exercise price is greater than the weighted average share price during the year and it would not be advantageous for the holders to exercise the option. The number of options excluded from the diluted EPS calculation is 3,117,110 (2007: 4,765,036). Profit from continuing operations attributable to ordinary shareholders Weighted average number of Ordinary Shares in issue Effect of dilutive Ordinary Shares and Share options Weighted average number of dilutive Ordinary Shares Continuing operations Basic Diluted Discontinued operations — Note 25(d) Basic Diluted Total Basic Diluted Year ended 31 December 2008 US$’000 37,185 341,515,007 5,807,035 347,322,042 Year ended 31 December 2007 US$’000 34,787 338,837,328 7,232,097 346,069,425 10.9¢ 10.7¢ – – 10.9¢ 10.7¢ 10.3¢ 10.1¢ (0.2)¢ (0.2)¢ 10.1¢ 9.9¢ Earnings per share excluding share benefit charges The Directors believe that EPS excluding share benefit charges better reflects the underlying performance of the business and assists in providing a clearer view of the performance of the Group. It is also a performance measure used internally to manage the operations of the business. Reconciliation of profit to profit excluding share benefit charges: Profit from continuing operations attributable to ordinary shareholders Share benefit charges Profit excluding share benefit charges Weighted average number of Ordinary Shares in issue Weighted average number of dilutive Ordinary Shares Continuing operations Basic earnings per share excluding share benefit charges Diluted earnings per share excluding share benefit charges Discontinued operations — Note 25(d) Basic earnings per share excluding share benefit charges Diluted earnings per share excluding share benefit charges Total Basic earnings per share excluding share benefit charges Diluted earnings per share excluding share benefit charges Year ended 31 December 2008 US$’000 37,185 8,391 45,576 341,515,007 347,322,042 Year ended 31 December 2007 US$’000 34,787 7,800 42,587 338,837,328 346,069,425 13.4¢ 13.1¢ – – 13.4¢ 13.1¢ 12.6¢ 12.3¢ (0.2)¢ (0.2)¢ 12.4¢ 12.1¢ Annual Report & Accounts 2008 63 16254888COM BACK.indd 63 16254888COM BACK.indd 63 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 9 Dividends Dividends paid Year ended 31 December 2008 US$’000 Year ended 31 December 2007 US$’000 25,628 36,205 The Board of Directors will recommend to the Shareholders a final divided in respect of the year ended 31 December 2008, of 2.9¢. 10 Acquisitions made during the prior year Online Bingo business On 16 May 2007 the Group acquired the assets comprising the online Bingo business of Globalcom Limited (“Bingo Business”) for an all- cash consideration. In calculating the goodwill arising on acquisition, the fair value of the net assets of the Bingo business were valued by a professional valuation firm and recognised in accordance with IFRS 3 and adjustments from book value have been made where necessary. These adjustments are summarized as follows: Property, plant and equipment1 Intangible assets2 Net assets 1 See note 12. 2 See note 11. Book value on acquisition US$’000 Fair value adjustments US$’000 81 200 281 – 4,114 4,114 Fair value US$’000 81 4,314 4,395 The fair value relates to the recognition of customer lists (US$888,000), royalty agreements (US$1,113,000), licensing agreements (US$2,113,000) and other intangible assets (US$200,000) acquired as part of the acquisition. These intangibles are being amortised over their estimated useful economic lives of between three months and four years. All intangible assets on acquisition have been identified and fair valued. The remaining goodwill represents the access to future trade with the Bingo customers. Fair value of net assets acquired Goodwill Fair value of consideration including expenses Which is represented by: Cash consideration to Globalcom Limited Deferred cash consideration to Globalcom Limited (paid during 2007) Deferred cash consideration to Globalcom Limited (paid during 2008) Earn-out payment (paid during 2008)1 Expenses & other costs Total cash consideration US$’000 4,395 37,892 42,287 10,723 5,398 16,095 9,050 1,021 42,287 1 An earn-out payment of US$9.05 million was payable in cash 12 months from completion on the basis of actual performance during financial year 2007, which was accomplished. The revenue and operating profit generated from this acquisition in the post-acquisition period to 31 December 2007 were $14.4 million and $5.2 million respectively. Had the business been owned for the entire year, the revenue and operating profit for 2007 would have been $20.2 million and $8.3 million respectively. 64 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM BACK.indd 64 16254888COM BACK.indd 64 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 11 Intangible assets Cost or valuation At 1 January 2007 Acquisitions At 31 December 2007 Cost or valuation Additions Acquisitions At 31 December 2008 Amortisation At 1 January 2007 At 31 December 2007 Charge for the year At 31 December 2008 Carrying amounts At 31 December 2008 At 31 December 2007 Internally generated intangible assets US$’000 Acquired intangible assets US$’000 Goodwill US$’000 Total US$’000 – – – 5,303 — 5,303 – – 363 363 4,940 – – 4,314 4,314 – 13 4,327 1,550 1,550 1,463 3,013 1,314 2,764 – 37,892 37,892 166 500 38,558 – – – – 38,558 37,892 – 42,206 42,206 5,469 513 48,188 1,550 1,550 1,826 3,376 44,812 40,656 Acquired intangible assets and Goodwill Brought forward intangible assets and goodwill, including an increase in Goodwill during the year of US$166,000 due to a further contingent consideration paid during the year, are associated with the cash-generating online Bingo business unit acquired during the prior year. The intangible assets include acquisitions of customer lists, royalty agreements, licensing agreements and certain software developed acquired as part of the acquisition of the assets comprising the online Bingo business of Globalcom Limited. These intangibles are being amortised over their estimated useful economic lives of up to four years. On acquisition, the intangible assets have been identified and valued using third party professional valuers. At the year end, the carrying value-in-use was determined by discounting the expected future cash flows of the online Bingo business to their present value. The key assumptions for the value-in-use calculations were those regarding discount rate and growth rates of the business. The Directors estimate discount rates that reflect the current market assessments of the time value of money and risks appropriate to the online Bingo business. The discount rate that is considered by the Directors to be appropriate is a discount rate of 12% being the Group’s specific weighted average cost of capital. In estimating the future cash flows the Group has used conservative estimates in respect of revenues generated and costs incurred. Growth rates of the online Bingo business are based on past experience and projections of future changes in the online gaming market, taking into account external sources of information such as analysts’ research reports. These suggest that Bingo is expected to remain one of the fastest developing sectors with an estimated Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 14% by the end of 2012. The Group has used lower and declining growth rates in estimating the future cash flows conservatively reflecting the current uncertainties about the medium term global economic outlook. The Directors have used forecasts for the next five years of the expected cash flows, of which the first year is based on the Group’s current approved budget. An annual growth rate of 4% was used for 2009 and 2010, 2% for 2011 and nil for 2012–2013. Following year five, the Group extrapolates cash flows in perpetuity, using an estimated growth rate of 1%, which is based upon the expected long-term growth rate of the UK economy. Costs associated with the Bingo cash generating unit were projected as a percentage of revenues and have been assumed to continue to increase by 10% in each of the five year period to 2013, over and above the level of growth in revenues. The Directors are not aware at this time of any need to change their key assumptions on which they have based their determination of the recoverable amount of the goodwill which would cause its carrying amount to exceed its recoverable amount. In fact, although such movements are not expected to arise, neither a 1% a decrease in the growth rate in each of the next three years nor a 5% increase in the discount rate would have led to an impairment of the acquired intangible assets and goodwill in the current year. The Group regularly monitors the carrying value of its acquired intangible assets and goodwill, or when such events or changes in circumstances indicate that these may be impaired. The result of the review, undertaken at 31 December 2008, was that no impairment needs to be recognised and the carrying value of the acquired intangible assets and goodwill is considered appropriate. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 65 16254888COM BACK.indd 65 16254888COM BACK.indd 65 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 11 Intangible assets continued During the year the Group acquired an Internet domain name based business which is used to generate traffic into the Group’s various websites. Consideration of US$513,000 was fully paid before year end. Contingent consideration of up to US$800,000 is not expected to be paid. The Directors have performed a valuation of the intangible asset acquired. The Directors took into account the following factors, amongst others, in determining the fair value of this intangible asset: l l l l Domain’s ranking with search engines Traffic ranking as a measure of popularity Number of unique visitors to the site Number of links pointing to the domain The Directors concluded that the fair value that should be assigned to the intangible asset is US$13,000 whilst the remainder of US$500,000 is to be recognised as goodwill (given that trade balances acquired were incidental). No further IFRS 3 disclosures have been given on the grounds of materiality. Internally generated intangible assets During the year the Group has put in place processes and procedure which enable it to ascertain technological feasibility before development costs are incurred and therefore be in a position to capitalise costs incurred after that point. Such expenditure is only capitalized when the development cost meet the definition of an intangible asset and the recognition criteria as set out in IAS 38 ‘Intangible assets’. The Group estimates the useful life of these assets as between 3 and 5 years. These assets are subject to impairment test wherever events or changes in circumstances indicate their carrying amount may not be recoverable on the same basis as described above for acquired intangible assets. At 31 December 2008 no impairment needs to be recognised and the carrying value of internally generated assets is considered appropriate. 12 Property, plant and equipment Cost At 1 January 2007 Additions Acquisitions Disposals At 31 December 2007 Additions Disposals At 31 December 2008 Accumulated depreciation At 1 January 2007 Charge for the year Disposals At 31 December 2007 Charge for the year Disposals At 31 December 2008 Depreciated cost At 31 December 2008 At 31 December 2007 IT equipment US$’000 Office furniture and equipment US$’000 Motor vehicles US$’000 Leasehold improvements US$’000 Total US$’000 13,777 4,156 81 (1) 18,013 7,502 – 25,515 9,661 2,845 (1) 12,505 3,986 – 16,491 9,024 5,508 2,331 105 – – 2,436 137 (72) 2,501 826 230 – 1,056 232 (17) 1,271 1,230 1,380 296 110 – – 406 205 (83) 528 154 49 – 203 69 (34) 238 290 203 10,406 3,203 – – 13,609 1,008 – 14,617 3,136 1,068 – 4,204 1,217 – 5,421 9,196 9,405 26,810 7,574 81 (1) 34,464 8,852 (155) 43,161 13,777 4,192 (1) 17,968 5,504 (51) 23,421 19,740 16,496 66 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM BACK.indd 66 16254888COM BACK.indd 66 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 13 Financial Assets Opening balance at the beginning of the year Acquisition of available for sale assets during the year Adjustment to market price at year end 31 December 2008 US$’000 31 December 2007 US$’000 654 – (431) 223 – 759 (105) 654 There were no disposals or impairment provisions in respect of available for sale financial assets. Available-for-sale assets are quoted equity securities, the fair value of which is based on their published market price. All the financial assets are available-for-sale investments. 14 Deferred taxes Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. The Group’s deferred tax assets resulting from temporary differences are as follows: Accrued severance pay Provision for share benefit charges Provision for vacation Provision for convalescence 15 Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents Restricted cash Restricted cash primarily relates to deposits held by banks for guarantees. 16 Trade and other receivables Trade receivables Corporate tax Other receivables and prepayments The carrying value of trade and other receivables approximates to their fair value. 31 December 2008 US$’000 31 December 2007 US$’000 37 174 370 25 606 38 181 300 18 537 31 December 2008 US$’000 31 December 2007 US$’000 97,522 922 98,444 103,505 803 104,308 31 December 2008 US$’000 31 December 2007 US$’000 9,026 106 9,541 18,673 13,430 – 6,100 19,530 Annual Report & Accounts 2008 67 16254888COM BACK.indd 67 16254888COM BACK.indd 67 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 17 Share capital Share capital comprises the following: Ordinary Shares of £0.005 each Ordinary Shares of £0.005 each Issue of Ordinary Shares of £0.005 each Authorised 31 December 2008 Number 31 December 2007 Number 31 December 2008 US$’000 31 December 2007 US$’000 426,387,500 426,387,500 426,387,500 426,387,500 3,880 3,880 3,880 3,880 Allotted, called up and fully paid 31 December 2008 Number 340,108,035 2,740,226 31 December 2007 Number 337,618,820 2,489,215 342,848,261 340,108,035 31 December 2008 US$’000 31 December 2007 US$’000 3,097 18 3,115 3,073 24 3,097 The following table includes details on issue of Ordinary Shares of £0.005 each in respect of shares exercised and nil cost options exercised as part of the Group’s employee share option plan (see note 21) during 2008 and 2007: Issued during 2008 16 March 2008 14 April 2008 30 April 2008 30 May 2008 18 June 2008 10 September 2008 15 September 2008 29 September 2008 6 October 2008 20 October 2008 Issued during 2007 16 April 2007 4 May 2007 5 July 2007 20 September 2007 4 October 2007 10 October 2007 Ordinary Shares of £0.005 each 105,503 635,621 320,590 230,671 475,941 184,672 152,004 5,000 527,535 73,855 Ordinary Shares of £0.005 each 138,403 1,002,169 475,941 212,174 649,777 10,751 During 2008, the Company issued 28,834 shares ( 2007: Nil ) in respect of employee’s exercises of market value options. Shares issued are converted into US$ at the exchange rate prevailing on the date of issue. The issued and fully paid share capital of the Group amounts to US$3,180,000 (2007: US$3,097,000) and is split into 342,848,261 (2007: 340,108,035) ordinary shares. The share capital in UK sterling (GBP) is £1,714,241 (2007: £1,700,540) and translates at an average exchange rate of US$1.85 (2007: $1.82) to GBP. 68 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM BACK.indd 68 16254888COM BACK.indd 68 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 18 Share capital and reserves Share capital US$’000 Share premium US$’000 Available-for- sale reserve US$’000 Retained earnings US$’000 Balance at 1 January 2007 Net profit for the year Dividend paid Issue of shares Valuation (losses) of available-for-sale investments Share benefit charges 3,073 – – 24 – – Balance at 1 January 2008 3,097 Net profit for the year Actuarial movements on severance pay liability Dividend paid Exercise of market value options Issue of shares Valuation (losses) of available-for-sale investments Share benefit charges – – – 18 – – Balance at 31 December 2008 3,115 – – – – – – – – – 65 – – – 65 – – – – (105) – (105) – – – – (431) — (536) 83,929 34,235 (36,205) (24) – 7,800 89,735 37,185 (949) (25,628) – (18) – 8,391 Total US$’000 87,002 34,235 (36,205) – (105) 7,800 92,727 37,185 (949) (25,628) 65 – (431) 8,391 108,716 111,360 The following describes the nature and purpose of each reserve within equity. Share capital — represents the nominal value of shares allotted, called-up and fully paid for. Share premium — represents the amount subscribed for share capital in excess of nominal value. Available-for-sale reserve — represents the gain or loss arising from a change in the fair value of an available-for-sale financial assets. Retained earnings — represents the cumulative net gains and losses recognised in the consolidated income statement. 19 Trade and other payables Trade payables Corporate taxes Other payables and accrued expenses Deferred acquisition liability The carrying value of trade and other payables approximates to their fair value. 31 December 2008 US$’000 31 December 2007 US$’000 6,107 – 31,747 – 37,854 5,297 1,131 31,467 25,145 63,040 Annual Report & Accounts 2008 69 16254888COM BACK.indd 69 16254888COM BACK.indd 69 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 20 Investments in significant subsidiaries Name Intersafe Global Limited Cassava Enterprises Limited Virtual Services Limited Virtual Holdings Management Services (Gibraltar) Limited Intersafe Global (Europe) Limited Cassava Enterprises (Gibraltar) Limited Virtual Marketing Services (UK) Limited Cassava Sports Limited Active Media Limited Virtual Marketing Services (Gibraltar) Limited Dixie Operation Limited Random Logic Limited Brigend Limited ACTeCASH Limited1 Fordart Limited Percentage of Percentage of equity interest equity interest 2007 % 2008 % Country of incorporation Gibraltar Antigua BVI Gibraltar Gibraltar Gibraltar UK Gibraltar BVI Gibraltar Antigua Israel Gibraltar Gibraltar Gibraltar 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 – 100 100 100 100 Nature of business Payment processor Customer call centre operator Advertising 100 100 100 100 100 Operates Group headquarters Payment processor Gaming web site operator Advertising Domain site owner through which a third party operates a betting exchange Customer call centre employer 100 Marketing acquisition 100 100 Customer call centre operator 100 Research, development and marketing Bingo business operator 100 e-Wallet service – 100 General commercial business activities 1 ACTeCASH is managed as a unit of the Group and utilises staff employed by the Group. In accordance with IAS 27 “Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements”, the Group is deemed to have control of ACTeCASH by virtue of the fact it has the power to govern the financial and operating policies of this company and derives economic benefit from doing so. ACTeCASH is owned by the ACTeCASH and SPO ventures Trust and shares are held for the benefit of the Group. As such ACTeCASH has been consolidated as part of the Group. 21 Share-based payment Prior to flotation, the Company adopted two equity-settled employee share incentive plans — the 888 All-Employee Share Plan and the Long Term Incentive Plan. Awards were granted under the 888 All-Employee Share Plan conditional upon flotation. The 888 All-Employee Share Plan is open to all employees and Executive Directors of the Group who are not within six months of their normal retirement age at the discretion of the Remuneration Committee. Awards under this scheme will vest in instalments over a fixed period of up to four years. The Company grants awards to certain Executive Directors and members of its senior management. These awards are subject to performance conditions imposed by the Remuneration Committee at the dates of grant. Details of Shares and Share Options granted as part of the 888 All-Employee Share Plan and shares granted vesting immediately on IPO and thereafter: Share options granted Outstanding at the beginning of the year Market value options granted during the year Market value options lapsed during the year Exercised during the year Outstanding at the end of the year1,2 Weighted average exercise price for options outstanding at the end of the year Weighted average exercise price for options lapsed during the year 31 December 2008 Number 31 December 2007 Number 5,088,447 1,871,423 (1,509,009) (28,834) 5,422,027 £1.50 £1.45 4,204,919 2,004,880 (1,121,352) – 5,088,447 £1.49 £1.64 1 Of the total number of options outstanding at the end of the year 1,843,545 had vested and were exercisable at the end of the year (2007: 1,321,145). 2 Range of exercise price for options outstanding at the end of the year is £1.14–£1.80 (2007: £1.14–£1.80). 70 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM BACK.indd 70 16254888COM BACK.indd 70 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 21 Share-based payment continued Shares granted Outstanding at the beginning of the year Shares granted — future vesting Lapsed future vesting shares Shares issued during the year Outstanding at the end of the year 31 December 2008 Number 31 December 2007 Number 9,802,660 4,258,381 (1,563,223) (2,711,392) 9,786,426 8,316,639 5,218,255 (1,243,019) (2,489,215) 9,802,660 The following information is relevant in the determination of the fair value of options granted during the year under the equity-settled 888 All-Employee Share Plan: Valuation information Option pricing model used Weighted average share price at grant date Weighted exercise price Risk-free interest rate range Expected volatility of the price of the underlying share 2008 Monte Carlo £1.47 £1.47 4.52–4.66% 47–52% 2007 Monte Carlo £1.18 £1.19 4.82–5.40% 37–78% Exercise period of the market value options is from vesting until expiry of ten years after grant date. The Monte Carlo model takes into account all the minimum requirements set by IFRS 2 such as: the exercise price of the option, the current price of the underlying share, the expected volatility of the price of the underlying share, the expected dividend on the underlying share, the expected term of the option both contractual term and based on employees’ expected behaviour and the risk-free interest rate for the expected term of the option. In accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards a charge to the income statement in respect of any shares or options granted under the above schemes will be recognised and spread over the vesting period of the shares or options based on the fair value of the shares or options at the date at grant, adjusted for changes in vesting conditions at each balance sheet date. This charge has no cash impact. Share benefit charges Charges in respect of share and option awards granted this year Charges in respect of share and option awards granted in previous years Charge for the year 22 Related party transactions Year ended 31 December 2008 US$’000 Year ended 31 December 2007 US$’000 2,176 6,215 8,391 1,756 6,044 7,800 During the year the Group paid US$296,176 (2007: US$290,401) in respect of rent and office expenses to companies of which Mr John Anderson is a Director. At 31 December 2008 the amount owed to those companies was US$nil (2007: US$nil). Remuneration paid to the Directors in the year totalled US$3,079,000 (2007: US$4,328,000). Share benefit charge in respect of awards granted to the Directors totalled US$1,699,587 (2007: US$3,163,000). Annual Report & Accounts 2008 71 16254888COM BACK.indd 71 16254888COM BACK.indd 71 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 23 Commitments Lease commitments Future minimum lease commitments under property operating leases for the year ended 31 December 2007 are as follows: Leases expiring within One year Two to five years 31 December 2008 US$’000 31 December 2007 US$’000 1,986 7,010 8,996 2,278 7,533 9,811 The amount paid in the year was US$ 2,801,000 (2007: US$2,574,000). Lease commitments on the Group’s property are shown to the date of the first break clause. 24 Financial risk management The Group is exposed through its operations to risks that arise from use of its financial instruments. Policies and procedures for managing these risks are set by the Board following recommendations from the Chief Financial Officer. The Board reviews the effectiveness of these procedures and, if required, approves specific policies and procedures in order to mitigate these risks. The main financial instruments used by the Group, on which financial risk arises, are as follows: l l l l l l Cash and cash equivalents Restricted cash Trade and other receivables Available-for-sale financial assets Trade and other payables Liabilities to customers Detailed analysis of these financial instruments is as follows: Financial assets Trade receivables Other receivables Cash and cash equivalents Restricted cash Available-for-sale financial asset 31 December 2008 US$’000 31 December 2007 US$’000 9,026 9,541 97,522 922 223 117,234 13,430 6,100 103,505 803 654 124,492 In accordance with IFRS 7, with the exception of available for sale assets, all financial assets are classified as loans and receivables. Financial liabilities Trade payables Other payables and accrued expenses Deferred acquisition liability Liabilities to customers 31 December 2008 US$’000 31 December 2007 US$’000 6,107 31,747 – 33,284 71,138 5,297 31,467 25,145 26,414 88,323 In accordance with IFRS 7 all of the above financial liabilities are held at amortised cost. At 31 December 2008 and 2007, the fair value and the book value of the Group’s financial assets and liabilities were materially the same. Capital The Capital employed by the Group comprises equity attributable to shareholders. The primary objective of the Group is maximizing shareholders’ value, which, from the capital perspective, is achieved by maintaining the capital structure most suited to the Group’s size, strategy, and underlying business risk. Other than disclosed elsewhere in note 26 there are no demands or restrictions on the Group’s capital. 72 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM BACK.indd 72 16254888COM BACK.indd 72 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 24 Financial risk management continued The main financial risk areas are as follows: Credit risk Trade receivables The Group’s credit risk is primarily attributable to trade receivables who are the Group’s payment service providers (“PSP”). These are third party companies that facilitate deposits and withdrawal of funds to and from customers’ virtual wallet with the Group. These are mainly intermediaries that transact on behalf of the main credit card companies. The risk is that a PSP would fail to discharge its obligation with regard to the balance owed to the Group. . The Group reduces this credit risk by: l l l l l Monitoring those balances on a regular basis. Arranging for the shortest possible cash settlements intervals. Replacing rolling reserve requirements, where they exist, with a Letter of Credit by a reputable financial institution. Ensuring a new PSP is only contracted following various due diligence and “Know Your Customer” procedures. Ensuring policies are in place to reduce dependency on any specific PSP. The Group believes that based on the above and on extensive past experience the PSP receivables are of good credit quality and there is no requirement to provide for any potential bad debts arising from a PSP failing to discharge its obligation. None of the balances owed by the various PSP are overdue or impaired. An additional credit risk the Group faces relates to customer’s disputing charges made to their credit cards (“chargebacks”) or any other funding method they have used in respect of the services provided by the Group. Customers may fail to fulfil their obligation to pay which will result in funds not being collected. These chargebacks and uncollected deposits, when occurring will be deducted at source by the PSPs from any amount due to the Group. As such the Group provides for these eventualities by way of a provision based on analysis of past transactions. This provision is netted off from the trade receivables balance and at 31 December 2008 was $1,070,000 (2007: $845,000). The Group’s in-house Fraud and Risk Management department carefully monitors deposits and withdrawals by following prevention and verification procedures using internally developed bespoke systems integrated with commercially available third party measures. Cash and cash equivalents The Group controls its cash position out of its Gibraltar headquarters. Subsidiaries in its other locations (Israel, Antigua and London) maintain minimum cash balances which are deemed required for their operations. Cash settlement proceeds from PSPs, as described above, are paid into bank accounts controlled by the Treasury function in Gibraltar. The Group segregates funds due to customers and holds these funds in separate bank accounts. These funds are not used to fund activity other than that directly related to customers. The Group maintains its funds with highly reputable financial institutions and will not hold funds with financial institutions with low credit rating. The Group maintains its cash reserve in highly liquid deposits and regularly monitors rates in order to maximize yield. Restricted cash Restricted cash is mainly attributed to a deposit in respect of the Group’s obligation with the developer of the offices of its subsidiary in Israel. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 73 16254888COM BACK.indd 73 16254888COM BACK.indd 73 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 24 Financial risk management continued The Group’s maximum exposure to credit risk by type of financial instrument is summarized below: Trade receivables Other receivables Cash and cash equivalents Restricted cash Available-for-sale financial asset 31 December 2008 31 December 2007 Carrying value US$’000 9,026 9,541 97,522 922 223 Maximum exposure US$’000 9,026 9,541 97,522 922 223 117,234 117,234 Carrying value US$’000 13,430 6,100 103,505 803 654 124,492 Maximum exposure US$’000 13,430 6,100 103,505 803 654 124,492 Liquidity risk Liquidity risk exists in the case where the Group will encounter difficulties in meeting its financial obligations as they become due. The Group monitors its liquidity in order to ensure that sufficient liquid resources are available to allow it to meet its obligations. In the case of the Group’s liability to its customers, the Group maintains these deposits in separate bank accounts which are not used for its day-to-day operations. The Group has ensured that cash earmarked to fund its final dividend payment for 2008 is in place. The Group expects to have sufficient liquidity to meet all of its financial obligations under all reasonably expected circumstances and will not need to resort to any borrowing. The following table details the contractual maturity analysis of the Group’s financial liabilities: On demand In 3 months Between 3 months and 1 year More than 1 year Trade payables US$’000 2,614 3,493 – – 6,107 31 December 2008 Other Deferred payables1acquisition liability US$’000 US$’000 Liabilities to Customers US$’000 7,255 21,955 2,261 276 31,747 – – – – – 33,284 – – – 33,284 1 Includes other payables, accrued expenses and provisions. On demand In 3 months Between 3 months and 1 year More than 1 year Trade payables US$’000 1,047 3,669 581 – 5,297 Other 31 December 2007 Deferred payables1 acquisition liability US$’000 US$’000 Liabilities to Customers US$’000 5,612 23,562 1,835 458 31,467 – – 25,145 – 25,145 26,414 – – – 26,414 1 Includes other payables, accrued expenses and provisions. Total US$’000 43,153 25,448 2,261 276 71,138 Total US$’000 33,073 27,231 27,561 458 88,323 74 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM BACK.indd 74 16254888COM BACK.indd 74 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 24 Financial risk management continued Market risk Interest rate risk The Group’s exposure to interest rate risk is limited to the interest bearing deposits in which the Group invests surplus funds. The Group’s policy is to invest surplus funds in low risk money market funds or on call over night facilities. The Group also arranged with its principal bankers that excess funds are swept automatically across its accounts, every night, in order to maximize availability of funds for investments. Downside interest rate risk is minimal as the Group has no borrowings. A 0.5% movement in bank interest rates would not have a significant impact on finance income for the year or the prior year. Currency risk The Group’s financial risk arising from exchange rate fluctuations is mainly attributed to: l Mismatch between Balance sheet Liabilities to customers which is predominately denominated in US$ and the net receipts from customers which are settled in the currency of the customer’s choice, of which sterling (GBP), euros (EUR), and Canadian dollar (CAD) are significant. Mismatch between reported revenue which is mainly generated in USD (the Group’s functional and reporting currency) and significant portion of deposits which are settled in local currencies. Expenses, the majority of which are denominated in foreign currencies, including sterling (GBP), the euro (EUR) and the New Israeli Shekel (ILS). l l The Group continually monitors the foreign currency risk and takes steps, where practical, to ensure that the net exposure is kept to an acceptable level, inter alia, by using foreign exchange forward contracts designed to fix the economic impact of known liabilities. At 31 December 2008 and 31 December 2007, there were no outstanding forward contracts. There were no significant fair value movements on these contracts during the year. The table below details the net financial position by currency at 31 December 2008 and 2007: GBP US$’000 EUR US$’000 ILS US$’000 CAD US$’000 USD US$’000 Other US$’000 31 December 2008 Cash and cash equivalent Receivables Net monetary assets Payables Liabilities to customers Net monetary liabilities Net financial position 8,755 4,432 13,187 (12,212) (3,514) (15,726) (2,539) 1,891 2,703 4,594 (3,544) (233) (3,777) 817 8,254 717 8,971 (11,308) – (11,308) (2,337) 570 413 983 (21) – (21) 962 78,837 10,145 88,982 (10,769) (29,501) (40,270) 48,712 137 380 517 – (36) (36) 481 GBP US$’000 EUR US$’000 ILS US$’000 CAD US$’000 USD US$’000 Other US$’000 31 December 2007 Cash and cash equivalent Receivables Net monetary assets Payables Liabilities to customers Net monetary liabilities Net financial position 91,728 6,846 98,574 (14,004) (855) (14,859) 83,715 6,661 4,378 11,039 (2,222) (13) (2,235) 8,804 1,238 1,374 2,612 (12,201) – (12,201) (9,589) 1,425 222 1,647 (26) – (26) 1,621 3,256 7,244 10,500 (33,456) (25,546) (59,002) (48,502) – 120 120 – – – 120 Total US$’000 98,444 18,790 117,234 (37,854) (33,284) (71,138) 46,096 Total US$’000 104,308 20,184 124,492 (61,909) (26,414) (88,323) 36,169 During 2008 the Board authorised the creation of a dedicated treasury function within the Finance division which was set up. Its responsibility is to manage the cash resources of the Group and minimise the various exposures associated with holding, and investing these funds. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 75 16254888COM BACK.indd 75 16254888COM BACK.indd 75 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 24 Financial risk management continued Sensitivity analysis The table below details the effect on profit before tax of a 10% strengthening (and weakening) in the US Dollar exchange rate at the balance sheet date for balance sheet items denominated in Sterling, Euros and New Israeli Shekels: 10% Strengthening 10% Weakening 10% Strengthening 10% Weakening 25 Discontinued operations Year ended 31 December 2008 EUR ’000 (82) 82 Year ended 31 December 2007 EUR ’000 (880) 880 GBP ’000 237 (237) GBP ’000 (8,389) 8,389 ILS ’000 191 (191) ILS ’000 923 (923) As a result of the matters fully described in note 26, the Group incurred legal expenses in the prior year in assessing the extent of any contingent liability, if any. (a) Consolidated Income Statement Total operating income Operating expenses Research and development expenses Selling and marketing expenses Administrative expenses Operating loss before reorganization costs Charges in respect of reorganization costs Operating loss Finance income Loss from discontinued operations Year ended 31 December 2008 US$’000 Year ended 31 December 2007 US$’000 – – – – – – – – – – – – – – 552 (552) – (552) – (552) 76 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM BACK.indd 76 16254888COM BACK.indd 76 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 25 Discontinued operations continued (b) Segment information Business segments Total Revenue Result Segment result Unallocated corporate expenses Operating loss Net loss for the year Total Revenue Result Segment result Unallocated corporate expenses Operating profit Net loss for the year Year ended 31 December 2008 Casino US$’000 Poker US$’000 Consolidated US$’000 – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Year ended 31 December 2007 Casino US$’000 Poker US$’000 Consolidated US$’000 – – – – – – – – (552) (552) (552) The expenses relate jointly to both segments. Any allocation of these items would be arbitrary. (c) Cash flows from discontinued operations Net cash used in operating activities Net cash generated from investing activities Net cash used in financing activities Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents (d) Earnings per share (Loss) from discontinued operations attributable to ordinary shareholders Weighted average number of Ordinary Shares in issue Weighted average number of dilutive Ordinary Shares Basic losses per share Diluted losses per share Year ended 31 December 2008 US$’000 Year ended 31 December 2007 US$’000 – – – – (552) – – (552) Year ended 31 December 2008 US$’000 – – – – – Year ended 31 December 2007 US$’000 (552) 338,873,328 346,069,425 (0.2)¢ (0.2)¢ Annual Report & Accounts 2008 77 16254888COM BACK.indd 77 16254888COM BACK.indd 77 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 26 Contingent liabilities From time to time the Group is subject to legal claims and actions against it. The Group takes legal advice as to the likelihood of success of such claims and actions. Regulatory issues As part of the Board’s ongoing regulatory compliance and operational risk assessment process, the Board continues to monitor legal and regulatory developments, and their potential impact on the business, and continues to take appropriate advice in respect of these developments. Following the enactment of the UIGEA on 13 October 2006, the Group stopped taking any deposits from customers in the US and barred such customers from wagering real-money on all of the Group’s sites. Notwithstanding this, there remains a residual risk of an adverse impact arising from the Group having had customers in the US prior to the enactment of the UIGEA. The Board is not able to identify reliably at this stage what if any liability may arise and accordingly no provision has been made. On 5 June 2007 the Group announced that it has initiated preliminary discussions with the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York. It is too early to assess any particular outcome of these discussions. 78 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM BACK.indd 78 16254888COM BACK.indd 78 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Company Balance Sheet At 31 December 2008 Assets Non-current assets Investments in subsidiaries Financial assets Current assets Trade and other receivables Cash and cash equivalents Total assets Equity and liabilities Equity Share capital Share premium Available-for-sale reserve Retained earnings Total equity attributable to equity holders of the parent Liabilities Current liabilities Trade and other payables Total liabilities Total equity and liabilities 31 December 2008 US$’000 31 December 2007 US$’000 Note 2 6 3 4 5, 8 8 8 8 7 13,777 223 14,000 134,683 38,565 173,248 187,248 3,115 65 (536) 17,951 20,595 166,653 166,653 187,248 6,885 654 7,539 83,645 87,120 170,765 178,304 3,097 – (105) 19,591 22,583 155,721 155,721 178,304 The financial statements on pages 79 to 83 were approved and authorised for issue by the Board of Directors on 30 March 2009 and were signed on Its behalf by: Gigi Levy Chief Executive Offi cer Aviad Kobrine Chief Financial Officer The notes on pages 82 to 83 form part of these financial statements. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 79 16254888COM BACK.indd 79 16254888COM BACK.indd 79 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Company Statement of Recognised Income and Expense For the year ended 31 December 2008 Net expense recognised directly in equity Net profit for the year Total recognised income and expense for the year attributable to equity holders of the parent The notes on pages 82 to 83 form part of these financial statements. Year ended 31 December 2008 US$’000 Year ended 31 December 2007 US$’000 – 15,615 15,615 – 31,156 31,156 80 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM BACK.indd 80 16254888COM BACK.indd 80 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Company Statement of Cash Flows For the year ended 31 December 2008 Cash flows from operating activities Loss before income tax Adjustments for Interest received Share benefit charges Increase in amounts owed by subsidiaries Increase/(decrease) in other accounts receivables Increase/(decrease) in trade payables Increase in amounts owed to subsidiaries Decrease in other accounts payables Cash (used) generated from operations Tax paid Net cash generated from operating activities Cash flows from investing activities Increase in investments in subsidiaries Interest received Acquisition of available for sale assets Dividends received Net cash used in investing activities Cash flows from financing activities Dividends paid Exercise of Market Value options Net cash used in financing activities Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year Year ended 31 December 2008 US$’000 Year ended 31 December 2008 US$’000 Year ended 31 December 2007 US$’000 Year ended 31 December 2007 US$’000 (9,778) (2,537) 1,499 (51,853) 815 23 11,179 (380) – 2,537 – 25,628 (25,628) 65 (4,966) (5,091) 3,177 (29,394) (328) (499) 21,977 (1,672) (119) 5,091 (759) 36,205 (36,205) – (51,032) (125) (51,157) 28,165 (25,563) (48,555) 87,120 38,565 (16,796) (104) (16,900) 40,418 (36,205) (12,687) 99,807 87,120 The notes on pages 82 to 83 form part of these financial statements. Annual Report & Accounts 2008 81 16254888COM BACK.indd 81 16254888COM BACK.indd 81 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Notes to the Company Financial Statements 1 General information and accounting policies A description of the Company, its activities and definitions are included in note 1 to the consolidated financial statements. The Company has applied accounting policies identical to the Group’s accounting policies listed in note 2 to the consolidated financial statements other than in relation to investments in its subsidiaries which are held at cost less any impairment provision required. Under Section 10(2) of the Gibraltar (Consolidated Accounts) Act 1999, the Company is exempt from the requirement to present its own income statement. 2 Investments in subsidiaries The Company’s subsidiaries are listed in note 19 to the consolidated financial statements and are held at cost less provision for any impairment. The Group has adopted IFRIC 11 ‘Group and treasury share transactions’. The effect of adopting this is that the parent Company recognises as a cost of investment the value of its own shares that it makes available for the purpose of granting share options to employees or contractors of its subsidiaries. This has no impact on the Group financial statements, and no impact on the prior year profit or net assets of the parent Company. The movement on investment in subsidiaries in both years was in respect of IFRIC 11. This amount was US$6,892,000 in 2008 (2007: US$4,623,000). 3 Trade and other receivables Amounts due from subsidiaries Other receivables and prepayments 31 December 2008 US$’000 31 December 2007 US$’000 134,345 338 134,683 82,492 1,153 83,645 The carrying value of trade and other receivables approximate to their fair value. None of the balances included within trade and other receivables are past due or impaired. Amounts due from subsidiaries are payable on demand. 4 Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents Restricted cash 5 6 7 Restricted cash primarily relates to deposits held by banks for guarantees. Share capital The disclosures in note 17 to the consolidated financial statements are identical for the Company. Financial assets The disclosures in note 13 to the consolidated financial statements are identical for the Company. Trade and other payables Trade payables Amounts due to subsidiaries Corporate tax Other payables and accrued expenses 31 December 2008 US$’000 31 December 2007 US$’000 38,308 257 38,565 86,904 216 87,120 31 December 2008 US$’000 31 December 2007 US$’000 189 163,201 175 3,088 166,653 166 152,022 65 3,468 155,721 The carrying value of trade and other payables approximate to their fair value. All balances included within trade and other payables are repayable on demand. 82 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM BACK.indd 82 16254888COM BACK.indd 82 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Notes to the Company Financial Statements 8 Share capital and reserves Share capital US$’000 Share premium US$’000 Available-for- sale reserve US$’000 Retained earnings US$’000 Balance at 1 January 2007 Net profit for the year Dividend paid Issue of shares Share benefit charges Valuation (losses) of available-for-sale investments 3,073 – – 24 – – Balance at 1 January 2008 3,097 Net profit for the year Dividend paid Issue of shares Exercise of market value options Share benefit charges Valuation (losses) of available for sale investments – – 18 – – – Balance at 31 December 2008 3,115 – – – – – – – – – – 65 – – 65 – – – – – (105) (105) – – – – – (431) (536) 16,863 31,157 (36,205) (24) 7,800 – 19,591 15,615 (25,628) (18) – 8,391 – 17,951 Total US$’000 19,936 31,157 (36,205) – 7,800 (105) 22,583 15,615 (25,628) – 65 8,391 (431) 20,595 9 Financial risk management The Company’s financial risk management objectives and policies are identical to those of the Group as disclosed in note 24 to the consolidated financial statements. 10 Contingent liabilities The disclosures in note 26 to the consolidated financial statements are identical for the Company. 11 Share-based payment The disclosures in note 21 to the consolidated financial statements are identical for the Company. 12 Related party transactions During the year the Company received dividends from its subsidiaries totalling US$25,628,000 (2007: US$36,205,000) and paid to its shareholders dividends totalling US$25,628,000 (2007: US$36,205,000). Remuneration paid to Directors of the Company by its subsidiaries in the year totalled US$176,000 (2007: US$427,000). Share benefit charges in respect of options and shares of the Company awarded to employees of subsidiaries totalled US$6,892,000 (2007: US$4,623,000). During the year subsidiaries of the Company participated in funding its costs which totalled US$8,862,000 (2007: US$5,690,000). At 31 December 2008, net amount owed by the Company to its subsidiaries US$28,856,000 (2007: US$69,530,000). Annual Report & Accounts 2008 83 16254888COM BACK.indd 83 16254888COM BACK.indd 83 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Shareholder Information Group websites A range of shareholder information is available in the Investor Relations area of the Group’s website, www.888holdingsplc.com, including: l Latest information on the Group’s share price l Information on the Group’s financial performance l News and events The following websites can be also accessed through the Group’s main web portal www.888.com or are available directly. Casino 888’s Casino games are offered through its Casino-on-Net and Reef Club Casino offerings. l www.Casino-on-Net.com l www.ReefClubCasino.com Poker 888’s Poker offering is through Pacific Poker. l www.PacificPoker.com Sportsbook 888’s Sportsbook offering is through 888sports. l www.888sport.com Bingo 888’s Bingo offering is through 888ladies. l www.888ladies.com 888.it: The Group’s sports offering for the Italian market. l www.888.it Backgammon: 888’s Backgammon offering is through 888backgammon. l www.888.com/backgammon Shareholder Services All enquiries relating to Ordinary Shares, Depository Interests, dividends and changes of address should be directed to the Group’s Transfer Agent: Capita Registrars The Registry 34 Beckenham Road Beckenham Kent BR3 4TU Tel: 0870 162 3100 www.capitaregistrars.com Further Information For further information please contact: Company Secretary 888 Holdings Public Limited Company Suite 601/701 Europort Europort Road Gibraltar info@888holdingsplc.com Principal Bankers The Royal Bank of Scotland plc 280 Bishopsgate London EC2M 4RB Solicitors Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer 65 Fleet Street London EC4Y 1HS Mobile: 888 enables access to mobile platform through 888mobile. l www.888mobile.com Hassans 57/63 Line Wall Road Gibraltar Betmate: 888 offers access to a betting exchange. l www.Betmate.com 888.tv: A portal for skill games allowing members to download games, open accounts and play tournaments. l www.888.tv 888.info: Allows members to practice their gaming skills for fun through a number of key Casino and Poker games. l www.888.info 888responsible: The Group’s dedicated site focusing on responsible gaming. l www.888responsible.com Auditors BDO Stoy Hayward LLP Chartered Accountants 55 Baker Street London W1U 7EU BDO Orion Limited Registered Auditors Montagu Pavilion 8–10 Queensway Gibraltar Incorporated in Gibraltar with registered number 90099 84 888 Holdings plc www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COM BACK.indd 84 16254888COM BACK.indd 84 16254 8/4/2009 Proof 7 08/04/2009 11:18 08/04/2009 11:18 Contents IFC Highlights 2 3 4 6 8 12 31 33 34 35 38 45 48 50 50 51 52 53 79 80 81 82 Group at a Glance 888 Brands/Partners Brands Expanding our Offering Chairman’s Statement CEO’s Review Enhanced Business Review Corporate Social Responsibility Risk Report Board of Directors Corporate Governance Remuneration Report Directors’ Report Independent Auditors’ Report Group Income Statement Group Statement of Recognised Income and Expense Group Balance Sheet Group Statement of Cash Flows Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Company Balance Sheet Company Statement of Recognised Income and Expense Company Statement of Cash Flows Notes to the Company Financial Statements 84 Shareholder Information Highlights At 888.com we believe that entertainment is the spark that completes our lives; that, after the challenges and routine that occupies our daily lives, everyone seeks fun and enjoyment . . . At 888.com we believe that we are the home of online gaming entertainment. Our primary responsibility is to provide the best gaming experience to our customers and the best services to our business partners. This requires the most entertaining, innovative and relevant games and the most exciting and rewarding entertainment opportunities to win in a responsible, yet fun environment. Our strategy is to achieve profitable growth through both the acquisition and retention of valuable customers by providing our customers a differentiated, intentional customer experience in a safe, secure, trustworthy and responsible environment, and by providing our gaming services through selected business partners. Our goal is to become the leading online gaming entertainment and related business services company in the world. To achieve this, we must consistently provide our customers with an ideal customer experience, and our business partners with excellent services. 16254888COMCVR (8mm Spine).indd 2 16254888COMCVR (8mm Spine).indd 2 16254 06/04/2009 Proof 5 16254 06/04/2009 Proof 5 08/04/2009 11:10 08/04/2009 11:10 ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS 2008 l 8 8 8 H o d n g s p c i l A n n u a l R e p o r t & A c c o u n t s 2 0 0 8 888 Holdings plc Suite 601/701 Europort Europort Road Gibraltar T: +350 20049800 F: +350 20048280 E: Info@888holdingsplc.com www.888holdingsplc.com 16254888COMCVR (8mm Spine).indd 1 16254888COMCVR (8mm Spine).indd 1 16254 06/04/2009 Proof 5 16254 06/04/2009 Proof 5 08/04/2009 11:10 08/04/2009 11:10 

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