Byggfakta Group Annual Report 2011

Plain-text annual report

1 1 0 2 ANNUAL REPORT Contents EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN’S REPORT MANAgINg DIRECTOR’S REPORT DIRECTORS’ REPORT LEAD AUDITOR’S INDEPENDENCE DECLARATION INCOME STATEMENT STATEMENT Of COMPREHENSIVE INCOME STATEMENT Of fINANCIAL POSITION STATEMENT Of CHANgES IN EqUITy STATEMENT Of CASH fLOwS NOTES TO THE fINANCIAL STATEMENTS DIRECTORS’ DECLARATION INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT ASX ADDITIONAL INfORMATION CORPORATE DIRECTORy 2 4 6 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 60 61 63 IBC Bell FInanCIal Group Is one oF australIa’s larGest, Independent Full servICe stoCkBrokInG FIrms Bell Financial Group is one of Australia’s largest, independent full service stockbroking ﬁrms offering investment and ﬁnancial advisory services to private, institutional and corporate clients. We have an experienced team of over 300 advisers across a network of 13 ofﬁces. ■ Adelaide ■ Brisbane ■ Cairns ■ Geelong ■ Gold Coast ■ Hobart ■ London ■ Mackay ■ Melbourne ■ Mornington ■ Perth ■ Sydney ■ Toowoomba 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 1 eXeCutIve CHaIrman’s report Dear Shareholders A little over a year ago I was cautiously optimistic about what 2011 may have in store, but as the year unfolded it quickly became clear that it would prove to be one of the toughest periods ever experienced by investors, ﬁnancial markets and many industries across a wide range of sectors. Severe economic global headwinds undermined investor sentiment, taking its toll on financial markets. There was a reallocation from risk assets to cash and term deposits. Daily transactional business in equities and exchange traded products slumped and equity capital markets were all but closed. As a result, the group’s after-tax profit fell to $7.6 million from $21.6 million a year earlier. However, it wasn’t all bad news. All the wholly-owned business units of Bell financial group traded profitably despite these extremely challenging conditions. Moreover, the group itself was profitable in every month of 2011. This performance cannot be underestimated given the prevailing financial conditions. In his Managing Director’s report, Alastair Provan will expand on the performance of each of the group’s business units. Despite the awful conditions, we maintained our focus on strengthening all our business units so each will be well placed when the markets return to normalcy. when that happens, our numbers will improve dramatically simply because we have continued to do what we do best, that is, putting our clients first. Significantly, our balance sheet and cash position are robust, with no operating debt other than the margin lending business. Bell financial group has always sought to provide a good company culture, and as I’ve often remarked, the broking industry is a people business. we also strive to provide a simple and transparent remuneration structure. These are some of the key reasons why we have managed to retain our staff and why we attract new people. During the year we added 12 new senior people to our retail business. 2 The integration of the Bell Potter and Southern Cross businesses was an important milestone in our history. The end result of the integration is that our full service broking business now consists of all the existing businesses – wholesale broking, retail broking, corporate and research – under the Bell Potter brand. we’ve combined the specialist institutional business of Southern Cross and the extensive retail distribution of Bell Potter. Our corporate finance and research divisions comprise personnel from both businesses. we are all excited by the potential of our business, and as part of the integration we have made strategic appointments to build momentum and deliver the best service to all our clients. frankly, we are in an excellent position to continue to grow the business and help our clients increase their wealth. In getting this right, everyone, including our shareholders, stands to benefit. whatever the situation, Bell financial group is well positioned to deal with a changing world. we have a first-rate leadership team and we are constantly improving our client focus and our product offerings. for the last half we will pay a 1c dividend, making the total payout 3c per share for the full year. This represents a 100% payout of our full year profit which is slightly more than previous distributions. Our decision to take the dividend to that level was influenced by us having completed the Southern Cross acquisition and by the fact our regulatory capital requirements are well covered. finally, on behalf of the Board, I would like to thank all our staff and our shareholders for their contribution and support throughout the year. Alastair Provan will now present his report and give a breakdown of the 2011 profit. yours sincerely Much, of course, will depend on the health of the global economy but there have been some encouraging signs for investors. These include the ongoing recovery of the US economy; China maintaining its strong growth; and some progress being made to alleviate the pressures faced by European sovereigns and banks. Colin Bell Executive Chairman Bell financial group 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 3 manaGInG dIreCtor’s report Dear Shareholders It has obviously been an extremely tough year across all divisions of the business, particularly in the second half. to run the retail business. geoff Louw remains in charge of futures and foreign exchange and Rowan fell maintains responsibility for Bell Potter Capital, our Cash and Margin Lending businesses. weak economic conditions in the UK and Europe and ongoing European Sovereign debt problems clearly had an adverse impact on investor confidence in Australia. However, before I detail the impact of those tough conditions across our divisions, I’d like to consider some highlights. The completed acquisition of the Southern Cross Equities business was clearly one highlight. Since the original acquisition by the Bell financial group in 2008, both the Southern Cross and Bell Potter businesses operated separately pending the completion of a three-year earn-out period, which expired on 30 June 2011. Total consideration paid for Southern Cross Equities was approximately $70 million, consisting of $40 million cash and 32 million shares in the company. Under the original arrangements, the potential consideration was $145.8 million, consisting of $72.9 million cash and 58.3 million shares. The three-year earn out period gave us the opportunity to thoroughly get to know the Southern Cross business and its people. That has enabled us to put together the best team, combining people from both firms. we chose not to include some of the ex-Southern Cross shareholders in the reorganisation, and, although that was difficult, we are very confident we now have the best team on the field. Charlie Aitken now heads up the wholesale business which incorporates Institutional Dealing, Research and Equity Capital Markets (ECM). Dean Surkitt, as previously announced, was appointed 4 These individuals bring a rare combination of talent, experience and motivation to the daily task of further growing the Bell Potter brand and providing exceptional customer-focused service. I would also like to note the impressive performance of Bell financial group’s 45%-owned online broking business Bell Direct, Australia’s fastest growing online broker that was launched in November 2007. Bell Direct was ranked number one in 14 out of 15 categories as measured by a customer satisfaction report on online brokers produced by financial research company Investment Trends between May and December 2011. This was an outstanding performance in a very tough and demanding environment. In January 2011, Bfg extended its option through to January 2015 to acquire all the remaining Bell Direct shares, reflecting our confidence in the business and management team. we have taken the opportunity to add new advisers to our futures and foreign exchange broking teams who we expect will make a significant contribution going forward. Our balance sheet remains strong with no operating debt other than in the Margin Lending business. Net tangible assets at 31 December 2011 were $54 million and our cash position remains solid. overHeads 2011 consolidated group overheads (excluding commission paid to Advisers) were $65.4m, down 6% on financial year 2010. The reduction in overheads was primarily attributable to a reduction in employment costs. BalanCe sHeet Net Assets at 31 December were $175m (2010 - $176m) and Net Tangible Assets were $54m (2010 – $48m). The business has a solid cash position, and has no operating debt other than in the Margin Lending business. Bell dIreCt The group’s ownership interest in the on-line broking business Bell Direct increased from 40.3% to almost 45% during 2011. while Bell Direct was not immune to the difficult trading conditions throughout 2011, the business continued to grow strongly across key metrics including client acquisition, cash holdings, sponsored holdings, revenue and market share. In January 2011, Bell financial group extended the term of the option it holds to take its interest in Bell Direct to 100% by four years to 31 January 2015. outlook while this year has been challenging and the early part of 2012 looks little different we remain optimistic that the resilience of the Australian economy will eventually be recognised for what it is and our market will be re-rated accordingly. we are also confident when that occurs, most importantly, we will have within the company the right people in the right positions to take full advantage. yours sincerely alastair provan Managing Director Bell financial group Ltd Revenue ($A m) 2007-2011 Net Profit AfterTax ($A m) 2007-2011 Equities Execution Revenue ($A m) 2007-2011 206.7 200.2 175.7 155.5 250.0 250 200 150 100 50 0 35.3 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 27.3 21.6 14.4 7.6 152.2 200 150 100 50 0 110.5 108.3 111.0 91.5 Equity Capital Markets Revenue ($A m) 2007-2011 60 50 40 47.0 50.5 30 20 10 0 8.8 38.1 26.9 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 group revenue was $155.5m for financial year 2011, down 22% on 2010. The decrease was attributable to a significant decline in both ECM activity and Equities execution revenue particularly in the second half of the year. Net profit after tax was $7.6m, a 65% decrease on 2010. Reduction in NPAT reflects the decrease in revenue particularly in the second half, and non-cash losses associated with the disposal of legacy listed and unlisted options held within Southern Cross Equities. 2011 consolidated revenue was $91.5m, down 18% on financial year 2010. Second half volumes in particular were impacted by a general lack of investor confidence in markets resulting from the European sovereign debt crisis. ECM revenue was $26.9m, down 29% on the prior year. while first half ECM activity was solid ($19.7m), this segment of the market was all but closed in the second half. Portfolio Administration Services Revenue ($A m) 2007-2011 Margin Lending and Cash Revenue ($A m) 2007-2011 Funds Under Advice ($A b) 2007-2011 12 10 8 6 4 2 0 10.2 8.4 7.7 8.2 7.7 5.9 5.5 4.4 3.5 2.1 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 26.7 22.4 23.7 20.5 22.2 18.9 18.8 15.8 16.2 13.2 4.3 3.0 3.2 3.3 3.0 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 Net revenue grew 7% to $5.9m over the 2011 financial year. funds Under Advice (fUA) decreased 15% to $18.8b. Margin Lending fUM was $138m, down on December 2010 fUM of $175m. The reduction in fUA was broadly consistent with the fall in Australian market indices. Cash was $182m as at December 2011, marginally down on the $189m December 2010 balance. funds Under Management (fUM) decreased 9% over the same period. fUM includes cash balances of $863m and margin loans totalling $253m. The Portfolio Administration Service (PAS) incorporates accurate and timely portfolio, tax and consolidated reporting across asset classes. PAS funds under Management (fUM) as at 31 December was $1.3b. PAS revenue for the 2011 financial year was $7.7m, down 6% on 2010. The decrease in revenue was attributable to a reduction in administered asset values (XJO index fell 14% for the period), offset by an increase in new business. 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 5 DIRECTORS’ REPORT fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 the directors of Bell Financial Group ltd (“Bell Financial” or the “Company”) present their report, together with the financial statements of the Company and its controlled entities (the “consolidated entity” or “Group”) and the auditor’s report thereon, for the financial year ended 31 december 2011. dIreCtors The Directors of the Company at any time during or since the end of the financial year are: ■ Mr C Bell ■ Mr A Provan ■ Mr C Coleman ■ Mr g Cubbin ■ Mr M Spry ■ Mr B wilson ■ Mr B Potts (resigned 1 December 2011) Particulars of the qualifications and experience of the Directors as at the date of this report are set out below. mr ColIn Bell Executive Chairman BEcon (Hons), Monash University Colin Bell founded Bell Commodities in 1970 after working with the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development in washington DC, USA. He is the Executive Chairman of Bell financial and has responsibility for the business development of the Company and all associated business within the group. mr alastaIr provan Managing Director Alastair Provan joined Bell Commodities in 1983 and held a number of dealing and management roles prior to becoming Managing Director in 1989. He is Managing Director of Bell financial and is responsible for the day-to-day management of all businesses within the group. He is also a director of Third Party Platform Pty Ltd (Bell Direct). Alastair is a member of the Remuneration Committee. 6 mr CraIG Coleman Non-Executive Director BComm, University of western Australia mr malColm spry Independent Non-Executive Director BEcon, Monash University Appointed 8 January 2008, Mr Spry has held a number of senior executive positions in Australia and internationally with The Nielsen Company, one of the world’s largest providers of business information products and services. Malcolm currently consults to Nielsen and is a director of Bell Direct. He was previously a director of various companies including E*Trade Australia Limited and Travel.com and the Executive Chairman of Mojo MDA group. Malcolm is a member of the group Risk and Audit Committee and Remuneration Committee. mr BrIan WIlson Non-Executive Director MComm (Hons), Auckland Appointed 28 October 2009, Mr wilson retired in 2009 as a Managing Director of the global investment bank Lazard, after co-founding the firm in Australia in 2004. He is currently Deputy Chancellor of University of Technology, Sydney, a member of the foreign Investment Review Board and a member of the Reserve Bank of Australia Payments System Board. He was also a member of the Commonwealth government Review of Australia’s Superannuation System and is currently a member of the ATO Superannuation Reform Steering Committee. Brian’s career as an investment banker specialising in corporate financial advice encompassed 33 years. Prior to joining Lazard, he was a Vice Chairman of Citigroup Australia and previously a director and co-Head of Investment Banking at Schroders Australia, a principal of Lloyds Corporate Advisory Services and a Director of BA Australia. Appointed 12 July 2007. He is also the Chairman of Bell Direct and a member of the group Risk and Audit Committee and the Remuneration Committee. Craig is a Senior Advisor and Non- Executive Director of private investment company, wyllie group Pty Ltd. Previously, he was Managing Director and a Non-Executive Director of Home Building Society Limited. Prior to joining Home Building Society, Craig held a number of senior executive positions and directorships with ANZ, including Managing Director – Banking Products, Managing Director – wealth Management and Non-Executive Director of E*Trade Australia Limited. His other current public company directorships include Chairman of Rubik financial Ltd and Amadeus Energy Limited and Non-Executive Director of Amcom Limited and Pulse Health Limited. mr GraHam CuBBIn Independent Non-Executive Director BEcon (Hons), Monash University fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors Appointed 12 September 2007, Mr Cubbin was a senior executive with Consolidated Press Holdings Limited (CPH) from 1990 until September 2005, including Chief financial Officer for 13 years. Prior to joining CPH, he held senior finance positions with a number of major companies including Capita financial group and ford Motor Company. graham has over 20 years’ experience as a director and audit committee member of public companies in Australia and the US. graham is a Director of the ASX listed Challenger financial Services group Limited, STw Communications group Limited, white Energy Company Limited and McPherson’s Limited. graham is the Chairman of the group Risk and Audit Committee and the Chairman of the Remuneration Committee. prInCIpal aCtIvItIes Bell financial is an Australian based provider of stockbroking, investment and financial advisory services to private, institutional and corporate clients. Operating across a network of 13 offices, Bell financial has over 650 employees, including more than 300 experienced advisers, serving over 125,000 active clients with funds under advice exceeding $18 billion. Bell financial has a 45% holding in Third Party Platform Pty Ltd (Bell Direct) and a call option to purchase all the remaining Bell Direct shares it does not own, at any time up to 31 January 2015. operatIons The group’s consolidated operating profit after income tax attributable to members was $7.6 million (2010: $21.6 million). A review of the operations of the group is set out in the Managing Director’s Report on pages 4 to 5 of this Annual Report. optIon to aCquIre sHares In Bell dIreCt a) summary In August 2011, the Company participated in a rights issue increasing its stake in Bell Direct from 40% to 45%. The terms of the call option to acquire shares in Bell Direct, as reported in the Company’s 2010 Annual Report, did not change in 2011 and are summarised in section (b) below. b) details of call option Prior to listing in December 2007, the Company was granted a call option to acquire 25% of the issued capital of Bell Direct (Bell Direct Call Option). The Company was entitled to exercise the Bell Direct Call Option in a period of 30 days after the second anniversary of listing in consideration of the issue of $17,500,000 worth of shares. In September 2008, the Company participated in a rights issue increasing its stake in Bell Direct from 25% to 36%. The contribution of additional capital was made on the basis that the Bell Direct Call Option was renegotiated. Under the renegotiated arrangements (New Call Option), the Company has a call option to purchase all the shares in Bell Direct it does not own, taking its holding to 100%. The exercise price of the New Call Option is to be satisfied by Bell financial issuing new shares and values all of Bell Direct’s existing share capital at $70 million, which is the same valuation used in the original Bell Direct Call Option. The right to exercise the New Call Option was extended under the renegotiation by 12 months to 31 January 2011. In July 2010 the Company participated in a further rights issue increasing its stake in Bell Direct from 36% to 40%. In January 2011, the Company and the other Bell Direct shareholders agreed further amendments to the New Call Option whereby the exercise period was extended to 31 January 2015. The Company also granted a put option in favour of certain Bell Direct management shareholders (who together hold approximately 14.3% of the shares in Bell Direct) permitting them to sell their Bell Direct shares to the Company. This put option values Bell Direct at $35 million and is exercisable at any time between 31 December 2012 and 31 January 2015. In August 2011, the Company participated in a rights issue increasing its stake in Bell Direct from 40% to 45%. Issue of shares under the New Call Option is subject to shareholder approval, which the Company will seek at the appropriate time in accordance with Corporations Act 2001 and ASX Listing Rule requirements and prior to the exercise of the option. Bell financial is under no obligation to exercise the New Call Option and any decision whether or not to exercise this option will be made by the Company’s independent non-executive Directors at the relevant time. As noted in the Company’s previous Annual reports, the Company applied to the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) for relief from the takeover provisions of Chapter 6 of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) in relation to the proposed issue of Bell financial shares to the grantors of the Bell Direct Call Option. following preliminary discussions with ASIC which indicated that the relief may not be obtained, the Company withdrew this application for relief in the view that the matter would be considered at a later stage. In the event that the Company does not obtain the relevant ASIC relief, the Company may, if it is necessary to do so, seek shareholder approval to the proposed issue of Bell financial shares in accordance with item 7 of section 611 of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) at a future annual meeting of the Company. soutHern Cross equItIes lImIted (sCe) a) summary The final instalment of the cash and scrip components payable for the Company’s acquisition of SCE was paid in November 2011. Total consideration paid for the SCE business was approximately $70 million, consisting of $40 million cash and 32 million shares in the Company. Under the original arrangements, the potential consideration was $72.9 million cash and 58.3 million shares. further details of the acquisition by the Company of SCE are set out in sections (b) and (c) below. b) acquisition The Company’s 2008, 2009 and 2010 Annual Reports summarised details of the acquisition by the Company of all of the issued capital of SCE and the amendments to the terms of that acquisition. As a result of the agreements made in 2009, from 1 July 2009 SCE was entitled to pay total remuneration to front office employees of up to 50% of SCE revenue (increased from 40%). The consideration for these amendments was a reduction in the total potential purchase price for SCE from $145.8 million to $114.8 million. The purchase price was payable 50% in cash and 50% in Bell financial shares. 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 7 DIRECTORS’ REPORT CONTINUED fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 One quarter of the original cash consideration was paid on completion (30 September 2008). The revised agreement reduced the three further equal cash instalments potentially payable on the anniversary of completion in 2009, 2010 and 2011 respectively from $18.2 million to $13.1 million (totalling $39.3 million). Those payments were subject to the original performance benchmarks being met. The scrip component of the consideration was satisfied on completion by the issue of 14,580,000 Ordinary shares, 14,580,000 A Class, 14,580,000 B Class and 14,580,000 C Class shares. In 2009, the number of A Class shares was reduced from 14,580,000 to 10,446,681, the number of B Class shares reduced from 14,580,000 to 10,446,681 and the number of C Class shares reduced from 14,580,000 to 10,446,681. Those A, B and C Class shares potentially converted into Ordinary shares on the anniversary of completion in 2009, 2010 and 2011 respectively, subject to the performance benchmarks being met. If the performance benchmarks were fully met then all A Class, B Class and C Class shares would be converted to Ordinary Bfg shares on a one for one basis. If the benchmarks were not met, the purchase price would be adjusted. SCE revenue for the financial year 1 July 2008 to 30 June 2009 did not reach the first benchmark of $37.4 million therefore no cash or scrip instalment was payable to the SCE vendors for 2009. At 30 June 2010 SCE met the performance benchmark for the full second instalment, which was paid in the fourth quarter of 2010. This instalment included the B Class shares being converted into Ordinary shares on 29 September 2010. At 30 June 2011 SCE revenue met the performance benchmark for two-thirds of the third and final instalment, which was paid in the fourth quarter of 2011. This instalment included two-thirds of the C Class shares being converted into ordinary shares of the Company on 28 November 2011. As revenue did not exceed the benchmark in the 2011 year, none of the 2009 cash instalment was paid and the A Class shares did not convert into ordinary shares. All the A Class shares and the remaining C Class shares were each converted to 0.0001 ordinary shares on 28 November 2011. c) share rights and entitlements The B Class shares were converted to Ordinary shares in September 2010. The A and C Class shares have been converted into ordinary shares as described in section (a) above. They had the following rights and entitlements: a) in the event of a share consolidation, share subdivision or bonus issue of Ordinary shares, or other capital reorganisation with respect to Ordinary shares, each A and C Class share would be converted into such number of A and C Class shares as determined by the Company’s Directors as being fair and equitable to the holders of A and C Class shares in the particular circumstances; b) if there was a change of control of the Company, as a result of takeover bid, scheme of arrangement or other analogous event, then A and C Class shares held by each shareholder would, on a date determined by the Directors, be converted into Ordinary Bell financial shares on a one for one basis; c) each holder would receive the amount of $0.0001 per share on a winding up, ranking equally with all other classes of shares in the capital of the Company; d) they were transferable only to an A or C Class shareholder; and e) they had no voting rights in general meeting, no right to receive dividends of any kind, did not permit the holder to participate in new issues of capital such as bonus issues and entitlement issues, had no right to participate in any return of capital and were not quoted on ASX. As at the date of this report, all the A Class, B Class and C Class shares have been converted to Ordinary shares as described above. 8 uBs a) summary As at the date of this report, UBS owns 16.27% of the Ordinary shares in the Company. It has certain non-dilution rights with respect to its shareholding in the Company, summarised in section (b) below. UBS chose not to subscribe for further shares following the conversion of the A and C Class shares to Ordinary shares in 2011 described above. UBS and the Company are parties to a Strategic Alliance Agreement, summarised in section (c) below, which expires on 12 December 2013, subject to 12 months’ notice of termination by either party. b) uBs non-dilution rights UBS has certain non-dilution rights with respect to its shareholding in the Company. In summary, if immediately following the issue of new shares in the Company the UBS shareholding percentage is less than its percentage at the time of the Company’s listing, then UBS will have the right, but not the obligation, to subscribe for up to that number of further shares so that following that subscription the UBS shareholding percentage will equal the UBS listing percentage. UBS chose not to subscribe for further shares following the issue of Ordinary shares to the former SCE shareholders in September 2008. UBS also chose not to subscribe for further shares following the conversion of the B Class shares to Ordinary shares in September 2010 and the A and C Class shares to Ordinary shares in 2011. UBS retains its right to exercise its non-dilution rights in respect of any future issue of Ordinary shares. Save where UBS terminates the Strategic Alliance Agreement described below for cause, the non-dilution rights will cease on the termination of the Strategic Alliance Agreement. c) strategic alliance agreement Under this agreement, UBS will supply to the Company for no fee a selection of research it produces relating to ASX listed entities which can be re-branded and given to the Company’s retail clients. UBS may also supply research relating to entities listed on securities exchanges other than ASX for the Company’s internal use only. UBS will also give the Company a priority broker firm allocation with respect to certain securities offerings and UBS derivative products offerings. The Company will make available to UBS its retail investor distribution capabilities in certain situations and has also given certain undertakings in relation to UBS competitors. The Strategic Alliance Agreement had an initial term of three years from 12 December 2007. Either party had the right to extend the term for a further three years, which occurred in 2010. The further three-year term of the Strategic Alliance Agreement expires on 12 December 2013, subject to 12 months’ notice of termination by either party. matters suBsequent to tHe end oF tHe FInanCIal year There has not arisen in the interval between the end of the financial year and the date of this report, any item, transaction or event of a material and unusual nature likely, in the opinion of the Directors of the Company, to significantly affect: a) the group’s operations in future financial years; or b) the results of those operations in future financial years; or c) the group’s state of affairs in future financial years. dIreCtors’ meetInGs The number of meetings of the Company’s Board of Directors held during the year ended 31 December 2011, and the number of meetings attended by each Director, are set out below. dIreCtor Board meetInGs Group rIsk and audIt CommIttee meetInGs remuneratIon CommIttee meetInGs Mr C Bell (Director for the full year) Mr A Provan (Director for the full year) Mr g Cubbin (Director for the full year) Mr C Coleman (Director for the full year) Mr M Spry (Director for the full year) Mr B wilson (Director for the full year) Mr B Potts (resigned 1 December 2011) a 5 5 5 5 5 5 3 B 5 5 5 5 5 5 4 a - - 6 6 6 - - B - - 6 6 6 - - a - 3 3 3 3 - - B - 3 3 3 3 - - A – Number of meetings attended B – Number of meetings held during the year dIreCtors’ Interests The relevant interest of each director in the shares and options over such instruments issued by the Company as of the date of this report is as follows: Bell FInanCIal Group ltd dIreCt IndIreCt total optIons ordInary sHares name Colin Bell Alastair Provan graham Cubbin Craig Coleman Malcolm Spry Brian wilson 1,824,723 31,264,862 33,089,585 1,693,467 31,264,862 32,958,329 130,000 50,000 180,000 39,264 1,733,019 1,772,283 150,000 - - 100,000 150,000 100,000 - - - - - - There were no changes to Directors’ interests in the Company’s shares between 31 December 2011 and the date of this report. 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 9 DIRECTORS’ REPORT CONTINUED fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 dIvIdends Dividends paid or declared by the Company to members during the financial year were as follows: deClared and paId durInG tHe year 2011 Cents per sHare final 2010 ordinary Interim 2011 ordinary 4.0 2.0 total amount $’000 Franked/ unFranked 10,106 5,053 franked franked date oF payment 25 March 2011 23 September 2011 On 22 february 2012, the Directors declared a final fully franked dividend of 1.0 cent per share, payable on 23 March 2012. This amount is not accrued within the financial statements. All dividends declared were fully franked at the tax rate of 30%. Company seCretary The Company Secretary is Mr A Paul M Vine LLB (European) Hons, CSA (Affiliate). Mr Vine was appointed to the position in 2007 and is also the Company’s general Counsel, with over 19 years’ experience in legal practices in public companies and leading law firms. Corporate GovernanCe Bell financial recognises the importance of good corporate governance practices. This section outlines key aspects of its corporate governance policies and frameworks. Bell financial developed its corporate governance framework by reference to the ASX Corporate governance Council’s Corporate governance Principles and Recommendations (2nd ed.) released in August 2007 (“ASX Recommendations”). The ASX Recommendations are guidelines of practices designed to optimise corporate performance and accountability. The commentary below is based on the 2nd edition of the Corporate governance Principles and Recommendations, including the 2010 amendments, which apply to the Company’s financial year commencing on 1 January 2011. Having regard to the structure, size and nature of operations of Bell financial, the Board considers that certain ASX Recommendations are not appropriate to its particular circumstances at present. Departures from the ASX Recommendations are identified in the discussion below. 1. Board oF dIreCtors 1.1 Composition of the Board The members of the Board and their experience and qualifications are set out on page 6. 1.2 Chairman The Chairman of the Board is not an independent Director. This represents a departure from the ASX Recommendations. Mr Colin Bell serves as the Executive Chairman. The Board considers that this is in the best interests of Bell financial given his experience, expertise and understanding of the business. Mr Alastair Provan, the Managing Director, has the primary responsibility for the discharge of the chief executive function including the day-to-day management of Bell financial. In this way, the Executive Chairman is not distracted in performing the role of chair effectively. 1.3 directors’ independence Directors are considered independent if they are a non-executive Director who is not a member of management and free of any business or other relationship that could materially interfere with the exercise of their unfettered and independent judgement or be perceived to do so. The Board Charter contains the principles used by the Board in assessing independence. During 2011 there were four non-executive Directors on the Board - Mr graham Cubbin, Mr Craig Coleman, Mr Malcolm Spry and Mr Brian wilson. Mr Cubbin and Mr Spry are independent non-executive directors. The Board did not consider that Mr Craig Coleman was an “independent” Director during 2011 due to his pre-existing role as a consultant to Bell Potter Securities, including his involvement with the listing of the Company in 2007 and various consultant roles performed since then. further, the Board did not consider that Mr Brian wilson was an “independent” Director during 2011 due to his pre-existing role as a principal of a material professional adviser to the Company. Their status may change over time and this will be disclosed to the market in a timely manner. As at the date of this report the Board does not have a majority of independent Directors. 10 The Board considers that it has the appropriate balance of experience, expertise and independence to enable it to discharge its functions effectively. 1.4 Independent professional advice Directors are, after consultation with the Chairman, able to seek independent professional advice at the Company’s expense. where appropriate, the advice may be made available to the Board. 1.5 director education The group has a formal process to educate new directors about the nature of the business, current issues, the corporate strategy and the expectations of the group concerning performance of directors. Directors also have the opportunity to meet with management to gain a better understanding of business operations. Directors are given access to continuing education opportunities to update and enhance their skills and knowledge. 2. Board responsIBIlItIes The Board is responsible for the overall corporate governance of Bell financial, which includes effective oversight of management. The Board has adopted a Board Charter, a copy of which is available on Bell financial’s website, www.bellfg.com.au. The Board Charter includes a description of the specific responsibilities reserved to the Board. The Board Charter also describes the nature of matters delegated to the senior executives, and includes a description of the respective roles of the Executive Chairman and the Managing Director. This description is designed to clearly identify the division of responsibility at the senior executive level of Bell financial. The Managing Director has authority to sub- delegate to the senior executive team. whilst the appointment of an Executive Chairman represents a departure from the ASX Recommendations, the Board is satisfied that the division of responsibility is clearly articulated to ensure appropriate accountability. The Board is responsible for monitoring the senior executive team’s performance. As part of the delegation of authority to manage the day-to-day affairs of the Company, the Managing Director carried out a performance evaluation for senior executives in late 2011. 3. Board CommIttees The Board Charter contemplates that the Board may delegate certain functions to Board committees to assist the Board in the discharge of its oversight role. These committees are required to consider particular issues in detail and then report back to and advise the Board. The Board has established two standing committees, the functions of which are discussed below. A copy of the Board committee charters are also available on Bell financial’s website, www.bellfg.com.au. 3.1 Group risk and audit Committee The group Risk and Audit Committee (gRAC) assists the Board to carry out its oversight role in relation to risk management, accounting, auditing and financial reporting. The core responsibilities of the gRAC include reviewing and, where required, providing recommendations to the Board on: ■ the effectiveness of Bell financial’s risk management and internal control systems; ■ external financial reporting and financial statements; ■ the discharge of the internal audit function; and ■ matters relating to the appointment, independence and performance of the external auditor. The gRAC charter stipulates that the chair of the Committee must be an independent non-executive Director, who is not the chair of the Board. The gRAC Charter also stipulates that the Committee must be comprised of a majority of non-executive Directors and have at least three members. During 2011 the members of the gRAC were graham Cubbin (Chairman), Craig Coleman and Malcolm Spry. The composition of the Committee during 2011 and at the date of this report follows the ASX Recommendations, which propose that such committees should consist of only non-executive Directors and a majority of members should be independent Directors. A copy of the gRAC charter is available on Bell financial’s website, www.bellfg.com.au. 3.2 remuneration Committee The Remuneration Committee assists and advises the Board on remuneration matters. The role of the Remuneration Committee is to develop, review and make recommendations to the Board on the remuneration framework for the non-executive Directors, the executive Directors and other senior executives. This includes the recommendations in relation to incentive schemes and equity based plans where appropriate. Bell financial’s remuneration policy is set out in section 1 of the Remuneration Report. The members of the Remuneration Committee during 2011 were graham Cubbin (Chairman), Craig Coleman, Alastair Provan and Malcolm Spry. The composition of the Committee represents a departure from the ASX Recommendations that propose that a majority of members should be independent Directors. However, the Board is satisfied that, given the majority of non-executive Directors, the Remuneration Committee has the appropriate balance of experience, expertise and independence to enable it to discharge its functions effectively. A copy of the Remuneration Committee Charter is available on Bell financial’s website, www.bellfg.com.au. 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 11 DIRECTORS’ REPORT CONTINUED fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 4. Board nomInatIons and reneWal In 2007 the Board determined not to establish a separate Nominations Committee and this is the position as at the date of this report. This is a departure from the ASX Recommendations. The Board does not consider that delegating the Board selection and appointment practices of Bell financial to a separate committee would enhance efficiency. Instead, the Board has reserved to itself relevant responsibilities, including appointing and removing the Managing Director, developing and approving succession plans for the Board and key senior executives and overseeing that membership of the Board is skilled and appropriate for Bell financial’s needs, as identified in the Board Charter. A performance evaluation in accordance with the Board Charter was carried out in 2011 in relation to the Directors and the two Board committees. There must be an election of Directors at each annual general meeting. The constitution of the Company provides, amongst other things, for a process of retirement of Directors by rotation (which will occur for each Director approximately every three years except for the Managing Director, Alastair Provan). Directors who retire from office are eligible to stand for re-election. 5. Company polICIes 5.1 ongoing disclosure with a view to ensuring that investors are informed of all major developments affecting Bell financial and its businesses, the Board has adopted policies designed to ensure that Bell financial meets its continuous disclosure obligations imposed by the ASX Listing Rules and the Corporations Act. Information is communicated to shareholders through ASX announcements, annual reports and half yearly updates which are accessible on Bell financial’s website, www.bellfg.com.au 12 A copy of the Disclosure and Communications Policy and guidelines is available on Bell financial’s website, www.bellfg.com.au. 5.2 securities trading guidelines Bell financial has adopted a Trading Policy that applies to the Directors, executives and employees of Bell financial. The Trading Policy is intended to explain the type of conduct in relation to dealings in the Company’s securities that is prohibited under the Corporations Act, and establish procedures in relation to Directors, executives or employees dealing in securities of the Company. Under the Trading Policy, Directors and other designated employees may not deal in securities of the Company during the following “black-out periods” (subject to limited exceptions): ■ from the end of the Company’s financial year (31 December) until release of its full year results in february; and ■ from the end of the Company’s half- year (30 June) until release of its half- year results in August. Other “black-out periods” may be declared from time to time. The policy also contains an approval process to be followed by Directors and other designated employees if they propose to deal in the Company’s securities. A copy of the Trading Policy is available on Bell financial’s website, www.bellfg.com.au. 5.3 Code of Conduct Bell financial has developed a Code of Conduct (Code), which applies to all Directors, officers and employees. Bell financial is committed to honesty and integrity in all its dealings, as well as ensuring the highest quality of service is provided to customers and clients at all times. The Code sets out the ethical standards, values and policies of the Company and provides a framework to guide compliance with legal and other obligations to stakeholders, commitment to which the Board believes will maintain the confidence of the Company’s key stakeholders. The Code provides that all potential or actual conflicts of interest must be avoided or disclosed. Directors must keep the Board advised, on an ongoing basis, of any interest that could potentially conflict with those of the Company. where the Board believes that a significant conflict exists for a Director on a board matter, the Director concerned would not receive the relevant board papers and would not be present at the meeting whilst the item is considered. Details of the Director related entity transactions with the Company and the group are set out in note 34 of the financial statements. 5.4 diversity Considerable diversity exists throughout the Bell financial group, in terms of age, culture and gender. The Company values diversity in the workplace and is committed to employing people on the basis of the “best fit” for the job, based on relative ability, performance or potential. Bell financial has established a Diversity Policy, which is available on the Company’s website, www.bellfg.com.au. 5.5 risk assessment and management The Board understands that the management of risk is a continuous process and an integral part of good business management and corporate governance. The gRAC plays a key role in assisting the Board with its responsibilities relating to accounting, internal control systems, reporting practices, risk management and ensuring the independence of the company’s external auditors. The Company has implemented a Risk Management Policy and framework based on Australian/New Zealand standard AS/NZ ISO 3100:2009 Risk Management Standard. A summary of the Risk Management Policy and framework is available from Bell financial’s website, www.bellfg.com.au. The gRAC reviewed and approved the Company’s Risk Management Policy and its Risk Management Plan in 2011. The gRAC reported to the Company’s Board on these matters and the Board is satisfied that the Company’s risk management and internal control system is appropriate. ■ none of the services undermine the general principles relating to auditor independence as set out in Professional Statement f1. 5.8 Internal audit The internal auditors assist the gRAC in ensuring compliance with internal controls and risk management programs by regularly reviewing the effectiveness of Company’s internal controls and systems. The gRAC is responsible for approving the program of internal audit visits to be conducted each financial year and for the scope of the work to be performed. The gRAC is responsible for recommending to the Board the appointment and dismissal of the Internal Audit and Risk Manager. The group’s principal financial instruments comprise listed securities, derivatives, term deposits and cash. The main risks arising from the group’s financial instruments are market risk, credit risk and liquidity risk. These are examined in more detail in note 3, financial Risk Management. 5.6 Financial reporting The Managing Director and Chief financial Officer have declared in writing to the Board that the declaration provided to the Board in accordance with section 295A of the Corporations Act 2001 is founded on a sound system of risk management and internal control and that the system is operating effectively in all material respects in relation to financial reporting risks. 5.7 external auditors The Company policy is to appoint external auditors who demonstrate quality and independence. The performance of the auditor is reviewed annually. KPMg is Bell financial’s external auditor. An analysis of fees paid to the external auditors is provided in note 38 of the financial report. The external auditor will attend the Annual general Meeting and be available to answer shareholder questions about the conduct of the audit and the preparation and content of the auditor’s report. The Company may decide to engage the auditor on assignments additional to their statutory audit duties where the auditor’s expertise in relation to the group is important. The Board has considered the position and, in accordance with the advice from the gRAC, is satisfied that the provision of the non-audit services is compatible with the general standard of independence for auditors outlined by the Corporations Act 2001. The Directors are satisfied that the auditor’s independence is not compromised in relation to non- audit services for the following reasons: ■ all non-audit services have been reviewed by the gRAC to ensure they do not impact the impartiality and objectivity of the auditor; and 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 13 DIRECTORS’ REPORT CONTINUED fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 6. asX Corporate GovernanCe reCommendatIons The ASX Listing Rules require listed entities to include in their annual report a statement disclosing the extent to which they have followed the 30 ASX corporate governance recommendations during the reporting period, identifying the recommendations that have not been followed and providing reasons for that variance. The statement below is based on the 2nd edition of the Corporate governance Principles and Recommendations, including the 2010 amendments. asX ‘Best praCtICe’ Corporate GovernanCe reCommendatIon reFerenCe1 Comply prInCIple 1: lay solId FoundatIons For manaGement and oversIGHt 1.1 1.2 1.3 Establish and disclose the functions reserved to the Board and those delegated to management Disclose the process for evaluating the performance of senior executives Provide the information indicated in the guide to reporting on Principle 1 prInCIple 2: struCture tHe Board to add value A majority of the Board should be independent Directors The chair should be an independent Director 2 2 2 1.3 1.2 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 The roles of chair and Managing Director should not be exercised by the same individual 1.2, 2 The Board should establish a nomination committee Disclose the process for evaluating the performance of the Board, committees and individual directors 4 4 Provide the information indicated in the guide to reporting on Principle 2 1, Directors’ Report prInCIple 3: promote etHICal and responsIBle deCIsIon makInG 3.1 Establish a code of conduct and disclose the code or a summary of the code as to: 5.3 ■ the practices necessary to maintain confidence in the Company’s integrity ■ the practices necessary to take into account the Company’s legal obligations and the reasonable expectations of stakeholders ■ the responsibility and accountability of individuals for reporting and investigating reports of unethical practices Establish a policy concerning diversity and disclose the policy or a summary of that policy. The policy should include requirements for the Board to establish measurable objectives for achieving gender diversity for the Board to assess annually both the objectives and progress for achieving them Disclose in each annual report the measurable objectives for achieving gender diversity set by the Board in accordance with the diversity policy and progress towards achieving them Disclose in each annual report the proportion of women employees in the whole organisation, women in senior executive positions and women on the Board Provide the information indicated in the guide to reporting on Principle 3 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 prInCIple 4: saFeGuard InteGrIty In FInanCIal reportInG The Board should establish an audit committee Structure the audit committee so that it: ■ consists of only non-executive Directors ■ consists of a majority of independent Directors ■ is chaired by an independent chair, who is not chair of the Board ■ has at least three members The audit committee should have a formal charter Provide the information indicated in the guide to reporting on Principle 4 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 14 5.4 5.4 5.4 5.4 3.1 3.1 3.1 3.1, 5.6, Directors’ Report ✔ ✔ ✔ Non- comply Non- comply ✔ Non- comply ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Non- Comply ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ 5.1 5.1 5.1 5.1 5.5 5.5 5.6, Directors’ Report 5.5, Directors’ Report 3.2, Remuneration Report 3.2, Remuneration Report ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Non- comply ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ asX ‘Best praCtICe’ Corporate GovernanCe reCommendatIon reFerenCe1 Comply prInCIple 5: make tImely and BalanCed dIsClosure 5.1 5.2 Establish written policies and procedures designed to ensure compliance with ASX Listing Rule disclosure requirements and to ensure accountability at a senior executive level for that compliance and disclose those policies or a summary of those policies Provide the information indicated in the guide to reporting on Principle 5 prInCIple 6: respeCt tHe rIGHts oF sHareHolders 6.1 6.2 Design a communications policy for promoting effective communication with shareholders and encourage their participation at general meetings and disclose the policy or a summary of that policy Provide the information indicated in the guide to reporting on Principle 6 prInCIple 7: reCoGnIse and manaGe rIsk 7.1 7.2 7.3 Establish policies for the oversight and management of material business risks and disclose a summary of those policies The Board should require management to design and implement the risk management and internal control system to manage the company’s material business risks and report to it on whether those risks are being managed effectively. The Board should disclose that management has reported to it as to the effectiveness of the company’s management of its material business risks The Board should disclose whether it has received assurance from the Managing Director and the Chief financial Officer that the declaration provided in accordance with section 295A of the Corporations Act is founded on a sound system of risk management and internal control and that the system is operating efficiently in all material respects in relation to financial reporting risks 7.4 Provide the information indicated in the guide to reporting on Principle 7 prInCIple 8: remunerate FaIrly and responsIBIlIty The Board should establish a remuneration committee The remuneration committee should be structured so that it: ■ consists of a majority of independent directors ■ is chaired by an independent director ■ has at least 3 members 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 Clearly distinguish the structure of non-executive directors’ remuneration from that of executive directors and senior executives Remuneration Report Provide the information indicated in the guide to reporting on Principle 8 3.2, Remuneration Report, Directors’ Report 1 Cross references to the relevant sections of this Corporate governance Statement, the Directors’ Report or the Remuneration Report in the 2011 Annual Report. 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 15 DIRECTORS’ REPORT CONTINUED fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 remuneratIon report (audIted) 3. Commission ■ the STI payable to the Executive 1. remuneration policy Bell financial remunerates key executives, management and advisers by a combination of fixed salary, commission entitlements and other short and long- term incentives. The Company has established the following equity-based plans to assist in the attraction, retention and motivation of Directors, management and employees of the Company: ■ Long Term Incentive Plan (pursuant to which the option offer, open to the Executive Chairman, the Managing Director and selected other Directors, senior executives and employed advisers, is made); and ■ Employee Share Acquisition (Tax Exempt) Plan (pursuant to which the employee grant offer, open to eligible employees, is made). Each plan contains customary and standard terms for dealing with the administration of the plan, and the termination and suspension of the plan. Participants in the Long Term Incentive Plan must not enter into a transaction or arrangement or otherwise deal in financial products which operate to limit the economic risk of the unvested Company securities issued under that plan. Compensation packages include a combination of fixed and variable compensation and short-term and long- term performance-based incentives. 2. Fixed compensation fixed compensation consists of base compensation as well as employer contributions to superannuation funds. Compensation levels are reviewed annually through a process that considers individual performance and that of the overall group. Commission entitlements are determined by the Board from time to time and aim to align the remuneration of key executives and advisers with the Company’s performance. In general, certain executives and advisers are paid a commission based on revenue generated by the individual during the year. This creates a strong incentive for key executives and advisers to maximise the Company’s revenues and performance. 4. performance linked compensation Performance linked compensation includes both short-term and long-term incentives and is designed to reward key management personnel for meeting or exceeding their financial and personal objectives. The short-term incentive is an ‘at risk’ bonus provided in the form of cash, while the long-term incentive is provided as options or performance rights over ordinary shares of the Company. 5. short-term incentive bonus The Company pays its key executives, including the Executive Chairman and Managing Director, a short-term incentive (STI) payable annually. The Company’s Remuneration Committee is responsible for determining who is eligible to participate in STI arrangements, as well as the structure of those arrangements. There are two types of STI arrangements: ■ the STI payable to executives who are not remunerated by reference to commission is a discretionary annual cash bonus determined based on the Company’s financial performance during the year, key performance indicators and industry competitive measures as well as individual performance over the period; and Chairman and the Managing Director is a discretionary annual cash bonus, up to three times their annual salary, which is determined based on the Company’s financial performance during the year, key performance indicators as well as individual performance over the period. These STI arrangements ensure that executive remuneration is aligned with the Company’s financial performance and growth. 6. long-term incentive (ltIp) The LTIP is part of the Company’s remuneration strategy and is designed to align the interests of the Company’s Directors, executives and advisers with the interests of Shareholders to assist the Company in the attraction, motivation and retention of Directors, executives and advisers. In particular, the LTIP is designed to provide relevant executives and advisers with an incentive for future performance, with conditions for the vesting and exercise of the options or performance rights under the LTIP, therefore encouraging those Directors, executives and advisers to remain with the Company and contribute to its future performance. Under the LTIP eligible persons participating may be granted options or performance rights on terms and conditions determined by the Board from time to time. An option or performance right is a right, subject to the satisfaction of the applicable vesting conditions and exercise conditions, to subscribe for a share in the Company. If persons become entitled to participate in the LTIP and their participation requires approval under Chapter 10 of the Listing Rules, they will not participate in the LTIP until shareholder approval is received pursuant to Listing Rule 10.4. 16 7. service agreements 7.1 Executive Chairman and Managing Director Bell financial entered into service agreements with its Executive Chairman, Colin Bell, and its Managing Director, Alastair Provan, effective from listing in December 2007. These agreements set out the terms of the appointment, including responsibilities, duties, rights and remuneration. A summary of the remuneration packages including benefits under the short and long-term incentive plans for each of Colin Bell and Alastair Provan is set out in the following section of this report. Bell financial may terminate the service agreements on twelve (12) months’ notice, or immediately for cause. If those agreements are terminated on 12 months’ notice, Bell financial has agreed to vest early any unvested options under the LTIP and to allow their early exercise. Colin Bell and Alastair Provan may terminate their respective service agreements on six (6) months’ notice. Each of Colin Bell and Alastair Provan have entered into non-competition covenants with Bell financial which operate for six (6) months from termination of their respective service agreements. 7.2 Craig Coleman Craig Coleman is currently a non-executive Director of the Company. Before he was appointed to that role, he served as an executive director of Bell financial from 6 June 2007 to 29 October 2007. During 2011 Craig Coleman provided consultancy services to Bell financial and was paid $200,000 (2010: $300,000) in relation to those services. Mr Coleman is the Chairman of Bell Direct. 7.3 Brian Wilson Brian wilson is currently a non-executive Director of the Company. Before appointment to that role, he was Managing Director of the global investment bank Lazard, which was a professional adviser to Bell financial. During 2011 Mr wilson provided consultancy services to the Company and was paid $75,000 (2010: nil) in relation to those services. 7.4 Non-Executive Directors On appointment to the Board, all the non-executive Directors (Mr Coleman, Mr Cubbin, Mr Spry and Mr wilson) were provided with a letter of appointment setting out the terms of the appointment, including responsibilities, duties, rights and remuneration, relevant to the office of Director. A summary of the annual remuneration package for those Directors is in the following section of this report. name Mr C Coleman Mr M Spry Mr B wilson Mr g Cubbin 7.5 Executives dIreCtors’ Fees superannuatIon $ 91,743 91,743 91,743 91,743 $ 8,257 8,257 8,257 8,257 total $ 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 All of the key executives are permanent employees of Bell financial. Each executive has an employment contract with no fixed end date. Any executive may resign from their position by giving four weeks written notice. The Company may terminate an employment contract by providing written notice and making payment in lieu of notice in accordance with the Company’s termination policies. The Company may terminate an employment contract at any time for serious misconduct. 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 17 DIRECTORS’ REPORT CONTINUED fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 remuneratIon report (audIted) CONTINUEd 8. directors’ and executive officers’ remuneration (Company and Consolidated) Details of the nature and amount of each major element of remuneration of each Director of the Company and each of the five named Company executives and relevant group executives who receive the highest remuneration and other key management personnel are: In aud dIreCtors, eXeCutIve dIreCtors Colin Bell, Executive Chairman1 Alastair Provan, Managing Director1 Brent Potts, Director3 non-eXeCutIve dIreCtors graham Cubbin Craig Coleman Malcolm Spry Brian wilson total compensation: directors (consolidated) total compensation: directors (company) sHort-term salary & Fees $ stI CasH Bonus $ non-monetary BeneFIts $ 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 569,794 570,000 528,789 529,446 259,604 350,000 91,743 91,743 291,743 391,743 91,743 91,743 161,248 91,743 1,994,664 - 450,000 - 450,000 - 200,000 - - - - - - - - - 2,116,418 1,100,000 636,477 666,972 - - 1 Colin Bell and Alastair Provan volunteered to forego any discretionary annual cash bonus in 2011. 2 Voluntary super contributions above the minimum legislative requirements are classified as post-employment benefits. 3 Brent Potts resigned on 1 December 2011. Amounts shown above are for the period 1 January 2011 to 30 November 2011. 4 Termination benefits paid to Brent Potts include long service leave and annual leave accrued. eXeCutIves Lewis Bell, Head of Compliance Andrew Bell, Executive Director of Bell Potter Securities Dean Davenport, Chief financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer Rowan fell, Director – Investment Services Paul Vine, general Counsel and Company Secretary total compensation: key management personnel (consolidated) total compensation: key management personnel (company) 18 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 339,502 339,502 310,203 327,785 284,513 275,369 280,866 315,170 234,513 232,670 1,449,597 1,490,496 - - - 150,000 - - 125,000 250,000 110,000 165,000 10,000 25,000 245,000 590,000 - - total $ 569,794 1,020,000 528,789 979,446 259,604 550,000 91,743 91,743 291,743 391,743 91,743 91,743 161,248 91,743 1,994,664 3,216,418 636,477 666,972 339,502 489,502 310,203 327,785 409,513 525,369 390,866 480,170 244,513 257,670 1,694,597 2,080,496 - - post- employment sHare-Based payments superannuatIon otHer termInatIon total amortIsatIon BeneFIts2 lonG term BeneFIts4 value oF ltI optIons $ $ proportIon oF remuneratIon value oF optIons as perFormanCe proportIon oF related remuneratIon 112,258 112,258 $ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 50,206 50,000 15,487 14,830 40,396 50,000 8,257 8,257 8,257 8,257 8,257 8,257 13,752 8,257 144,612 147,858 38,523 33,028 50,000 50,000 48,125 50,369 15,487 24,631 49,134 14,830 15,487 14,830 178,233 154,660 - - 6,550 6,550 328 $ - - - - - - - - - - - - - 13,428 328 2,620 3,989 1,965 491 9,065 - - - - - - - - - total $ 620,000 1,076,550 544,276 1,000,826 412,258 600,000 100,000 100,328 300,000 400,000 100,000 100,000 175,000 100,000 2,251,534 3,377,704 675,000 700,328 389,502 542,122 358,328 378,154 425,000 553,989 440,000 496,965 260,000 272,991 1,872,830 2,244,221 - - % 42 - - - 46 33 - 1 - - - - - - - - - 33 28 - - - 29 46 25 34 4 9 13 27 - - % - 1 - 1 - - - 1 - - - - - - - 1 - - - 1 - - - 1 - 1 - - - 1 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - remuneratIon report (audIted) CONTINUEd 8. directors’ and executive officers’ remuneration (Company and Consolidated) Details of the nature and amount of each major element of remuneration of each Director of the Company and each of the five named Company executives and relevant group executives who receive the highest remuneration and other key management personnel are: In aud dIreCtors, eXeCutIve dIreCtors Colin Bell, Executive Chairman1 Alastair Provan, Managing Director1 Brent Potts, Director3 non-eXeCutIve dIreCtors graham Cubbin Craig Coleman Malcolm Spry Brian wilson 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 2011 2010 569,794 570,000 528,789 529,446 259,604 350,000 91,743 91,743 291,743 391,743 91,743 91,743 161,248 91,743 1,994,664 636,477 666,972 339,502 339,502 310,203 327,785 284,513 275,369 280,866 315,170 234,513 232,670 1,449,597 1,490,496 - - 450,000 450,000 200,000 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 150,000 125,000 250,000 110,000 165,000 10,000 25,000 245,000 590,000 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 569,794 1,020,000 528,789 979,446 259,604 550,000 91,743 91,743 291,743 391,743 91,743 91,743 161,248 91,743 1,994,664 3,216,418 636,477 666,972 339,502 489,502 310,203 327,785 409,513 525,369 390,866 480,170 244,513 257,670 1,694,597 2,080,496 - - total compensation: directors (consolidated) total compensation: directors (company) 2,116,418 1,100,000 1 Colin Bell and Alastair Provan volunteered to forego any discretionary annual cash bonus in 2011. 2 Voluntary super contributions above the minimum legislative requirements are classified as post-employment benefits. 3 Brent Potts resigned on 1 December 2011. Amounts shown above are for the period 1 January 2011 to 30 November 2011. 4 Termination benefits paid to Brent Potts include long service leave and annual leave accrued. eXeCutIves Lewis Bell, Head of Compliance Andrew Bell, Executive Director of Bell Potter Securities Dean Davenport, Chief financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer Rowan fell, Director – Investment Services Paul Vine, general Counsel and Company Secretary total compensation: key management personnel (consolidated) total compensation: key management personnel (company) sHort-term post- employment sHare-Based payments salary & stI CasH non-monetary Fees $ Bonus $ BeneFIts $ total $ superannuatIon BeneFIts2 $ otHer lonG term $ termInatIon BeneFIts4 $ total amortIsatIon value oF ltI optIons $ 50,206 50,000 15,487 14,830 40,396 50,000 8,257 8,257 8,257 8,257 8,257 8,257 13,752 8,257 144,612 147,858 38,523 33,028 50,000 50,000 48,125 50,369 15,487 24,631 49,134 14,830 15,487 14,830 178,233 154,660 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 112,258 - - - - - - - - - 112,258 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6,550 - 6,550 - - - 328 - - - - - - - 13,428 - 328 - 2,620 - - - 3,989 - 1,965 - 491 - 9,065 - - total $ 620,000 1,076,550 544,276 1,000,826 412,258 600,000 100,000 100,328 300,000 400,000 100,000 100,000 175,000 100,000 2,251,534 3,377,704 675,000 700,328 389,502 542,122 358,328 378,154 425,000 553,989 440,000 496,965 260,000 272,991 1,872,830 2,244,221 - - proportIon oF remuneratIon perFormanCe related % value oF optIons as proportIon oF remuneratIon % - 42 - 46 - 33 - 1 - - - - - - - 33 - - - 28 - - 29 46 25 34 4 9 13 27 - - - 1 - 1 - - - 1 - - - - - - - 1 - - - 1 - - - 1 - 1 - - - 1 - - 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 19 DIRECTORS’ REPORT CONTINUED fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 remuneratIon report (audIted) CONTINUEd Notes in relation to the table of Directors’ and executive officers’ remuneration a) In relation to the executive officers, the short-term incentive bonus is for performance during the financial year ended 31 December 2011 using the criteria set out in section 5 of the Remuneration Report. b) Options were issued to Directors and executives in October 2007. The fair value of the options is calculated at the date of grant using an option-pricing model and allocated to each reporting period evenly over the period from grant date to vesting date. The value disclosed is the portion of the fair value of the options recognised in this reporting period. None of the options were exercised and they expired in December 2011. The following factors and assumptions were used in determining the fair value of options on grant date: Grant date optIon eXerCIse date FaIr value per optIon eXerCIse prICe prICe oF sHares on Grant date eXpeCted volatIlIty 10 Oct 07 15 Dec 20101 $0.0262 $3.102 $1.55 25% rIsk Free Interest rate 6.55% dIvIdend yIeld 5.0% 1 Options could be exercised for a period of up to 12 months from exercise date. 2 Represents exercise price at grant. Exercise price at listing date was $2.00. equity instruments All options refer to options over Ordinary shares of Bell financial, which are exercisable on a one-for-one basis under the LTI plan. 9. optIons Granted as CompensatIon – all eXpIred Details on options over Ordinary shares in the Company that were granted as compensation to each key management person in 2007 were disclosed in previous Annual Reports. Those options were exercisable until 12 December 2011 and expired on that date. No options were granted in 2011. 9.1 modification of terms of equity-settled share-based payment transactions No terms of equity settled share based payment transactions (including options granted to key management personnel) have been altered or modified by the issuing entity during the reporting period. 9.2 exercise of options granted as compensation following the vesting date or the accelerated vesting of an option, the vested option may be exercised by the executive subject to any exercise conditions and the payment of the exercise price (if any), and the executive will then be allocated or issued shares on one- for-one basis. No options granted as compensation were exercised during the period. 9.3 analysis of options granted as compensation Details of vesting profile of the options granted as remuneration to each Director of the Company and each of the named Company executives are detailed below. dIreCtors Colin Bell Alastair Provan graham Cubbin eXeCutIves Lewis Bell Dean Davenport Rowan fell Paul Vine optIons Granted numBer date % vested In year FInanCIal years In WHICH Grant vests 1,000,000 1,000,000 50,000 400,000 608,959 300,000 75,000 10 Oct 2007 10 Oct 2007 10 Oct 2007 10 Oct 2007 10 Oct 2007 10 Oct 2007 10 Oct 2007 - - - - - - - 15 Dec 2010 15 Dec 2010 15 Dec 2010 15 Dec 2010 15 Dec 2010 15 Dec 2010 15 Dec 2010 There were no options granted as compensation during the period. 9.4 analysis of movements in options All options disclosed above lapsed on 12 December 2011. 20 IndemnIFICatIon and InsuranCe oF dIreCtors Indemnification The Company has agreed to indemnify the Directors against all liabilities to another person (other than the Company or related entity) that may arise from their position as Directors of the Company or its controlled entities, except where the liability arises out of conduct including a lack of good faith. Except for the above, neither the Company nor its controlled entities has indemnified any person who is or has been an officer or auditor of the Company or its controlled entities. Insurance premiums Since the end of the previous financial year the Company has paid a premium for an insurance policy for the benefit of the Directors, officers, secretaries and senior executives of the Company. In accordance with commercial practice, the policy prohibits disclosure of the nature of insurance or amount of the premium. envIronmental reGulatIon The operations of the group are not subject to any particular and significant environmental regulation under a law of the Commonwealth of a State or Territory. To the best of the Company’s knowledge no member of the group has incurred any material environmental liability during the year. non-audIt servICes The Company may decide to engage the auditor on assignments additional to their statutory audit duties where the auditor’s expertise with the group is important. The provision of these services and the auditor’s independence are discussed in the Corporate governance Statement. Details of the amounts paid to the auditor of the Company, KPMg, and its related practices for audit and non-audit services provided during the year are set in note 38. lIkely developments further details of likely developments in the operations of the group and its prospects in future financial years are contained in the Executive Chairman’s and the Managing Director’s Reports set out on pages 2 to 5. In the opinion of the Directors, disclosure of any further information would be likely to result in unreasonable prejudice to the group. lead audItor’s IndependenCe deClaratIon The lead auditor’s independence declaration is set out on page 22 and forms part of the Directors’ report for the financial year ended 31 December 2011. roundInG oF amounts The Company is of a kind referred to in ASIC Class Order 98/100 dated 10 January 1998 and in accordance with that Class Order, amounts in the financial report and Directors’ report have been rounded off to the nearest thousand dollars, unless otherwise stated. Signed in accordance with a resolution of the Directors. Colin Bell Executive Chairman 22 february 2012 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 21 LEAD AUDITOR’S INDEPENDENCE DECLARATION UNDER SECTION 307C Of THE CORPORATIONS ACT 2001 to: tHe dIreCtors oF Bell FInanCIal Group lImIted I declare that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, in relation to the audit for the financial year ended 31 December 2011 there have been: i) no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements as set out in the Corporations Act 2001 in relation to the audit; and ii) no contraventions of any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the audit. kpmG don pasquariello Partner Melbourne 22 february 2012 22 INCOME STATEMENT fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 Rendering of services finance income Investing income / (expense) Other income total revenue Employee expenses ConsolIdated $ ‘000 note 2011 2010 6. 9. 7. 8. 140,540 171,837 19,837 (5,646) 816 19,902 7,608 898 155,547 200,245 10. (94,383) (119,593) Depreciation and amortisation expenses 16,17. Occupancy expenses Systems and communication expenses Professional expenses finance expenses Other expenses total expenses results from operating activities Share of profit / (loss) of equity accounted investments, net of income tax profit before income tax Income tax (expense) / benefit profit for the year attrIButaBle to: Equity holders of the Company profit for the year earnInGs per sHare: Basic earnings per share (AUD) Diluted earnings per share (AUD) 9. 18. 11. 29. 29. The notes on pages 28 to 59 are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. (1,398) (9,646) (14,580) (3,043) (9,527) (1,592) (10,007) (14,295) (2,334) (9,722) (10,136) (10,061) (142,713) (167,604) 12,834 (1,134) 11,700 32,641 (1,034) 31,607 (4,061) (10,038) 7,639 21,569 7,639 7,639 Cents 3.0 3.0 21,569 21,569 Cents 8.7 8.7 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 23 STATEMENT Of COMPREHENSIVE INCOME fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 profit for the year otHer CompreHensIve InCome Change in fair value of cash flow hedge other comprehensive income for the year, net of tax total comprehensive income for the year attrIButaBle to: Equity holders of the Company total comprehensive income for the year Other movements in equity arising from transactions with owners as owners are set out in note 27. The notes on pages 28 to 59 are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. ConsolIdated $ ‘000 2011 7,639 (220) (220) 7,419 7,419 7,419 2010 21,569 (205) (205) 21,364 21,364 21,364 24 STATEMENT Of fINANCIAL POSITION AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2011 assets Cash and cash equivalents Trade and other receivables Loans and advances financial assets Prepayments total current assets Investments in equity accounted investees Deferred tax assets Property, plant and equipment goodwill Intangible assets total non-current assets total assets lIaBIlItIes Trade and other payables financial liabilities Deposits and borrowings Current tax liabilities Derivatives Employee benefits Provisions total current liabilities Deferred tax liability Employee benefits total non-current liabilities total liabilities net assets equIty Contributed equity Reserves Retained earnings / (losses) total equity attributable to equity holders of the Company The notes on pages 28 to 59 are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. ConsolIdated $ ‘000 note 2011 2010 12. 13. 20. 14. 18. 19. 16. 17. 17. 21. 15. 22. 23. 31. 25. 24. 19. 25. 27. 27. 27. 109,933 126,674 52,411 64,778 138,498 174,907 2,088 542 18,044 701 303,472 385,104 11,068 10,439 2,298 3,111 2,908 2,530 118,819 126,479 1,741 2,036 137,037 144,392 440,509 529,496 72,351 - 93,333 2,449 182,402 204,215 1,020 228 6,670 750 3,159 8 21,107 24,482 263,421 348,753 3 2,444 2,447 1,781 2,621 4,402 265,868 353,155 174,641 176,341 164,284 157,666 25,736 34,054 (15,379) (15,379) 174,641 176,341 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 25 STATEMENT Of CHANgES IN EqUITy treasury sHares reserve $ ’000 sHare Based payments reserve $’000 ConsolIdated Balance at 1 January 2010 total CompreHensIve InCome Profit for the year otHer CompreHensIve InCome Change in fair value of cash flow hedges Total other comprehensive income total comprehensive income for the year sHare CapItal $ ‘000 147,742 - - - - transaCtIons WItH oWners, dIreCtly In equIty Transfer of retained earnings New equity issue Dividends Balance at 31 december 2010 Balance at 1 January 2011 total CompreHensIve InCome Profit for the year otHer CompreHensIve InCome Change in fair value of cash flow hedges Total other comprehensive income total comprehensive income for the year - 9,924 - 157,666 157,666 - - - - transaCtIons WItH oWners, dIreCtly In equIty Transfer of retained earnings New equity issue Purchase of treasury shares Share based payments Dividends Other - 6,618 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - (863) - - - dIstrIButaBle proFIts reserve $ ‘000 CasH FloW HedGe reserve $ ‘000 retaIned earnInGs $ ‘000 total equIty $ ‘000 33,081 197 (15,379) 165,641 - - - - 21,569 - (20,588) 34,062 34,062 - - - - 7,639 - - - (15,159) 277 - 21,569 21,569 (205) (205) (205) - - (205) (205) 21,569 21,364 - - - (8) (8) (21,569) - - - 9,924 (20,588) (15,379) 176,341 (15,379) 176,341 - 7,639 7,639 (220) (220) (220) - - (220) (220) 7,639 7,419 - - - - - - (7,639) - - - - - - 6,618 (863) 8 (15,159) 277 26,819 (228) (15,379) 174,641 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 8 - - 8 Balance at 31 december 2011 164,284 (863) The notes on pages 28 to 59 are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 26 STATEMENT Of CASH fLOwS fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 CasH FloWs From / (used In) operatInG aCtIvItIes Cash receipts from customers Cash paid to suppliers and employees Cash generated from operations Dividends received Interest received Interest paid Income taxes paid net cash from operating activities 26. (10,878) CasH FloWs From / (used In) InvestInG aCtIvItIes Net proceeds from sale of investments Southern Cross consideration Acquisition of property, plant and equipment Acquisition of other investments net cash from / (used in) investing activities CasH FloWs From / (used In) FInanCInG aCtIvItIes Dividends paid On market share purchases Bell Potter Capital (Margin Lending) Deposits Loans Repayment of borrowings net cash from / (used in) financing activities Net increase / (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January Cash and cash equivalents at 31 december The notes on pages 28 to 59 are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. ConsolIdated $ ‘000 note 2011 2010 163,012 199,526 (176,863) (176,664) (13,851) 22,862 146 19,543 (9,527) (7,189) 8,031 (8,705) (1,684) (2,079) 184 19,767 (9,722) (12,261) 20,830 5,117 (13,059) (1,330) (7,698) (4,437) (16,970) (15,159) (20,588) (863) - (6,730) 36,409 47,166 18,124 (15,083) (47,085) (1,426) (2,383) (16,741) 126,674 1,477 125,197 12, 26. 109,933 126,674 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 27 NOTES TO THE fINANCIAL STATEMENTS fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 Bell financial group Ltd (“Bell financial” or the “Company”) is domiciled in Australia. The address of the Company’s registered office is Level 29, 101 Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC. The consolidated financial statements of the Company comprise of the Company and its subsidiaries (the “group” or “Consolidated Entity”) and the group’s interest in associates. 1. sIGnIFICant aCCountInG polICIes Set out below is a summary of significant accounting policies adopted by the Company, its subsidiaries and associates in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements. a) Basis of preparation Statement of compliance The financial report is a general purpose financial report prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards (AASBs) (including Australian Accounting Interpretations) adopted by the Australian Accounting Standards Board (AASB) and the Corporations Act 2001. The consolidated financial report of the group and the financial report of the Company comply with International financial Reporting Standards (IfRS) and interpretations adopted by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). The financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on 22 february 2012. The accounting policies set out below, except as noted, have been applied consistently to all periods presented in these consolidated financial statements, and have been consistently applied by all entities within the consolidated entity. Basis of measurement These consolidated financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, except for financial assets and liabilities (including derivative instruments) at fair value through the profit and loss. 28 Functional and presentation currency Investments in associates These consolidated financial statements are presented in Australian dollars, which is the Company’s functional currency and the functional currency of the majority of the group. The Company is of a kind referred to in ASIC Class Order 98/100 dated 10 July 1998 and in accordance with that Class Order, all financial information presented in Australian dollars has been rounded to the nearest thousand dollars unless otherwise stated. Removal of parent entity financial statements The group has applied amendments to the Corporations Act (2001) that remove the requirement for the group to lodge parent entity financial statements. Parent entity financial statements have been replaced by the specific parent entity disclosures in note 33. b) principles of consolidation Business combinations The group has adopted revised AASB 3 Business Combinations (2008) and amended AASB 127 Consolidated and Separate financial Statements (2008) for business combinations occurring in the financial year starting 1 January 2009. All business combinations occurring before this date are accounted for by applying the acquisition method. Subsidiaries Subsidiaries are all entities controlled by the group. Control exists where the group has the power to govern the financial and operating policies of the entity so as to obtain benefits from its activities. In assessing control, potential voting rights that are currently exercisable are taken into account. The financial statements of subsidiaries are included in the consolidated financial statements from the date that control commenced until the date that control ceases. All controlled entities have a 31 December balance date. Intra-group balances, and any unrealised income and expenses arising from intra-group transactions, are eliminated in preparing the consolidated financial statements. Associates are those entities in which the Company has significant influence, but not control, over the financial and operating policies. Associates are accounted for using the equity method. The consolidated financial statements include the group’s share of the income and expenses of equity accounted investees, from the date significant influence commences until the date that significant influence ceases. when the group’s share of losses exceeds its interest in an equity accounted investee, the carrying amount of that interest is reduced to nil. Unrealised gains arising from transactions with equity accounted investees are eliminated against the investment to the extent of the group’s interest in the investee. Unrealised losses are eliminated in the same way as unrealised gains, but only to the extent that there is no evidence of impairment. Special purpose entities The group has established a special purpose entity (SPE) to manage margin loans. The group does not have direct or indirect shareholdings in this entity. The SPE is consolidated if, based on an evaluation of the substance of its relationship with the group and the SPE’s risks and rewards, the group concludes that it controls the SPE. SPE’s consolidated by the group were established under terms that impose strict limitations on the decision making powers of the SPE’s management and that result in the group receiving the majority of the benefits related to the SPE’s operations and net assets, being exposed to risks incident to the SPE’s activities and retaining the majority of the residual or ownership risks related to the SPE or its assets. c) revenue recognition Revenue is recognised to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefit will flow to the group and the revenue can be reliably measured. The following specific criteria must also be met before revenue can be recognised. Rendering of services e) Income tax Revenue arising from brokerage, commissions, fee income and corporate finance transactions are recognised by the group on an accruals basis as and when services have been provided, net of the amount of goods and services tax (gST). Provision is made for uncollectible debts arising from such services. Securities held at balance date are valued by directors at market value at each balance date, with any unrealised gains and losses being taken to the income statement. Interest income Interest income is recognised as it accrues using the effective interest method. Dividend income Dividends are bought to account as revenue when the right to receive the payment is established. d) statement of cash flows The Statement of Cash flows is prepared on the basis of net cash flows in relation to settlement of trades. This is consistent with the group’s revenue recognition policy whereby the entity acts as an agent and receives and pays funds on behalf of its clients, however only recognises as revenue, the group’s entitlement to brokerage commission. for the purpose of the Statement of Cash flows, cash and cash equivalents comprise cash at bank and on hand, investments in money market instruments maturing within less than 14 days (net of bank overdrafts) and short- term deposits with an original maturity of 3 months or less. It is important to note that the statement of financial position discloses trade debtors and payables that represent net client accounts being the accumulation of gross trading. Income tax expense or revenue for the period comprises current and deferred tax. Income tax is recognised in the Income Statement except to the extent that it relates to items recognised directly in equity, in which case it is recognised in equity. Current tax is the expected tax payable on the taxable income for the year, using tax rates enacted or substantially enacted at the balance sheet date, and any adjustments to tax payable in respect of previous years. Deferred tax is recognised using the balance sheet method, providing for temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for taxation purposes. Deferred tax is not recognised for the following temporary differences: the initial recognition of goodwill, the initial recognition of assets or liabilities in a transaction that is not a business combination and that affects neither accounting nor taxable profit, and differences relating to investments in subsidiaries to the extent that they probably will not reverse in the foreseeable future. Deferred tax is measured at the tax rates that are expected to be applied to the temporary differences when they reverse, based on the laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting date. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset if there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax liabilities and assets, and they relate to income taxes levied by the same tax authority on the same taxable entity, or on different tax entities, but they intend to settle current tax liabilities and assets on a net basis or their tax assets and liabilities will be realised simultaneously. A deferred tax asset is recognised to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which temporary differences can be utilised. Deferred tax assets are reviewed at each reporting date and are reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that the related tax benefit will be realised. Tax consolidation Effective 1 January 2003, the Company elected to apply the tax consolidation legislation. All current tax amounts relating to the group have been assumed by the head entity of the tax-consolidated group, Bell financial group. Deferred tax amounts in relation to temporary differences are allocated as if each entity continued to be a taxable entity in its own right. f) Goods and services tax Revenues, expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of goods and services tax (gST), except where the amount of gST incurred is not recoverable from the Australian Tax Office (ATO). In these circumstances the gST is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or as part of an item of the expense. Receivables and payables are stated with the amount of gST excluded. The net amount of gST recoverable from, or payable to, the ATO is included as a current asset or liability in the Statement of financial Position. Cash flows are included in the statement of cash flows on a gross basis. The gST components of cash flows arising from investing and financing activities that are recoverable from, or payable to, the ATO are classified as operating cash flows. g) Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash balances, investments in money market instruments maturing within less than 14 days and short-term deposits with original maturity of less than three months. Bank overdrafts that are repayable on demand are included as a component of cash and cash equivalents for the purpose of the Statement of Cash flows. 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 29 NOTES TO THE fINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 If the hedging instrument no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, expires or is sold, terminated or exercised, the hedge accounting is discontinued prospectively. The cumulative gain or loss previously recognised in equity remains there until the forecast transaction occurs. k) trade and other payables Liabilities for trade creditors and other amounts are carried at cost which is the fair value of the consideration to be paid in the future for goods and services received, whether or not billed to the parent entity or group. Trade accounts payable are normally settled within 60 days. i) Impairment of assets l) leased assets At each reporting date, the group reviews the carrying values of its tangible and intangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have been impaired. If such an indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset, being the higher of the asset’s fair value less costs to sell and value in use, is compared to the asset’s carrying value. Any excess of the asset’s carrying value over its recoverable amount is expensed to the Income Statement. where it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, the group estimates the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit to which the asset belongs. An impairment loss is reversed if the reversal can be related objectively to an event occurring after the impairment loss was recognised. for financial assets measured at amortised cost and available-for-sale financial assets that are debt securities the reversal is recognised in profit or loss. for available-for-sale financial assets that are equity securities, the reversal is recognised in equity. Impairment losses on goodwill are not reversed. j) trade and other receivables Trade debtors to be settled within 3 trading days are carried at amounts due. Term debtors are carried at the amount due. The collectability of debts is assessed at balance date and specific provision is made for any doubtful accounts. Leases in terms of which the group assumes substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership are classified as finance leases. Upon initial recognition the leased asset is measured at an amount equal to the lower of its fair value and the present value of minimum lease payments. Subsequent to initial recognition, the asset is accounted for in accordance with the accounting policy applicable to that asset. Other leases are operating leases and are not recognised on the group’s Statement of financial Position. m) Borrowing costs Borrowing costs are recognised as expenses in the period in which they are incurred. n) provisions A provision is recognised if, as a result of a past event, the group has a present legal or constructive obligation that can be estimated reliably, and it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation. Provisions are determined by discounting the expected future cash flows at a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the liability. o) deposits and borrowings All deposits and borrowings are recognised at cost, being the fair value of the consideration received net of issue costs associated with the borrowings. 1. sIGnIFICant aCCountInG polICIes CONTINUEd h) derivatives Derivative financial instruments are contracts whose value is derived from one or more underlying price indices or other variable. They include swaps, forward rate agreements, options or a combination of all three. Certain derivative instruments are held for trading for the purpose of making short-term gains. These derivatives do not qualify for hedge accounting. The right to receive options arising from the provision of services to corporate fee clients are valued using the Black and Scholes model. On disposal of options any realised gains/losses are taken to the Income Statement. Derivatives are recognised initially at fair value and attributable transaction costs are recognised in profit or loss when incurred. Derivative financial instruments are also used for hedging purposes to mitigate the group’s exposure to interest rate risk. Derivative financial instruments are recognised initially at fair value. where the derivative is designated effective as a hedging instrument, the timing of the recognition of any resultant gain or loss is dependant on the hedging designation. The group designated interest rate swaps as cash flow hedges during the period. Details of the hedging instruments are outlined below: Cash flow hedges Changes in the fair value of cash flow hedges are recognised directly in equity to the extent that the hedges are effective. To the extent hedges are ineffective, changes in the fair value are recognised in the profit and loss. Hedge effectiveness is tested at each reporting date and is calculated using the dollar offset method. Effectiveness will be assessed on a cumulative basis by calculating the change in fair value of the interest rate swap as a percentage of the change in fair value of the designated hedge item. If the ratio change in the fair value is within the 80 - 125% range, a hedge is deemed to be effective. 30 p) Goodwill and intangible assets Goodwill goodwill on acquisition is initially measured at cost being the excess of the costs of the business combination over the acquirer’s interest in the net fair value of the identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities. following initial recognition, goodwill is measured at cost less accumulated impairment losses. goodwill is reviewed for impairment, annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount is impaired. Other intangible assets Other intangible assets that are acquired by the group, which have finite lives, are measured at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses. Amortisation is recognised in the profit and loss on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of intangible assets. The estimated useful lives are as follows: 2011 2010 Customer list 10 years 10 years q) Financial instruments All investments are initially recognised at fair value of the consideration given, plus directly attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, investments, which are classified as financial assets are measured as described below. Fair value estimation for investments actively traded in organised financial markets, fair value is determined by reference to Stock Exchange quoted market bid prices at the close of business on the balance sheet date. for investments where there is no quoted market price and a reliable estimate of fair value is not available the security is recorded at the lower of cost and recoverable amount, being a Directors’ valuation, by reference to the current market value of another instrument that is substantially the same. Realised and unrealised gains and losses are included in the income statement. Dividends are brought to account when declared. Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss A financial asset is classified in this category if acquired principally for the purpose of selling in the short term or if so designated by management and within the requirements of AASB 139: Recognition and Measurement of financial Instruments. Realised and unrealised gains and losses arising from changes in the fair value of these assets are included in the income statement in the period in which they arise. Loans and advances All loans and advances are recognised at amortised cost. Impairment assessments are performed at least at each reporting date and impairment is reviewed on each individual loan. Impairment provisions are raised if the recoverable amount is less than the carrying value of the loan. Loans are secured by holding equities as collateral. Share capital Ordinary shares Ordinary shares are classified as equity. Incremental costs directly attributable to issue of ordinary shares and share options are recognised as a deduction from equity, net of any tax effects. Dividends Dividends are recognised as a liability in the period in which they are declared, being appropriately authorised and no longer at the discretion of the Company. Treasury shares when share capital recognised as equity is repurchased, the amount of the consideration paid is recognised as a deduction from equity. Repurchased shares are classified as treasury shares and are presented in the reserve until sold or reissued. r) property, plant and equipment Property, plant and equipment is included at cost less accumulated depreciation and any impairment in value. All property, plant and equipment is depreciated over its estimated useful life, commencing from the time assets are held ready for use. Items of property, plant and equipment are depreciated/amortised using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives. The depreciation rates for each class of asset are as follows: 2011 2010 20 – 25% 20 – 25% Leasehold improvements Office equipment 20 – 50% 20 – 50% furniture and fittings 20 – 50% 20 – 50% s) employee entitlements Wages, salaries and annual leave The provisions for entitlements to wages, salaries and annual leave expected to be settled within 12 months of reporting date represent the amounts which the group has a present obligation to pay resulting from employees’ services provided up to reporting date. Long service leave The provision for salaried employee entitlements to long service leave represents the present value of the estimated future cash outflows to be made resulting from employees’ service provided up to reporting date. Liabilities for employee entitlements, which are not expected to be settled within twelve months, are discounted using the rates attaching to national government securities at balance date, which most closely match the terms of maturity of the related liabilities. In determining the liability for employee entitlements, consideration has been given to future increases in wage and salary rates, and experience with staff departures. Related on-costs have also been included in the liability. 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 31 NOTES TO THE fINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 1. sIGnIFICant aCCountInG polICIes CONTINUEd Bonuses The Company recognises a liability and an expense for bonuses. The Company recognises a provision where contractually obliged or where there is a past performance that has created a constructive obligation. Defined contribution plans A defined contribution plan is a post- employment benefit plan under which the Company pays fixed contributions into a separate entity and will have no legal or constructive obligation to pay further amounts. Obligations for contributions to defined contribution plans are recognised as an employee expense in profit or loss when they are due. Share based payments The Company has adopted a number of share based Equity Incentive Plans in which employees and Directors participate. The grant date fair value of shares expected to be issued under the various Equity Incentive Plans, including options, granted to employees and Directors is recognised as an employee expense, with a corresponding increase in equity over the period in which the employees become unconditionally entitled to the shares. The fair value of options at grant date is independently determined using the Black and Scholes option pricing model that takes into account the exercise price, the vesting period, the vesting and performance criteria, the impact of dilution, the share price at grant date and the expected price volatility of the underlying share and the risk free interest rate for the vesting period. t) earnings per share The group presents basic and diluted earnings per share (EPS) data for its ordinary shares. Basic earnings per share Basic EPS is calculated by dividing the profit or loss attributable to ordinary shareholders of the Company by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the period. 32 Diluted earnings per share w) new standards and interpretations Diluted EPS is determined by adjusting the profit or loss attributable to ordinary shareholders and the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding for the effects of all dilutive potential ordinary shares and share options granted to employees and Directors. u) Foreign currency transactions Transactions in foreign currencies are translated to the functional currency of the group at exchange rates at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at the reporting date are retranslated to the functional currency at the foreign exchange rate at that date. Non-monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies that are measured at fair value are retranslated to the functional currency at the exchange rate at the date that the fair value was determined. foreign currency differences arising on retranslation are recognised in profit or loss, except for differences arising on available for sale equity instruments that are recognised directly in equity. v) segment reporting The group determines and presents operating segments based on the information that is internally provided to the Chief Decision Maker in accordance with AASB 8 Operating Segments. An operating segment is a component of the group that engages in business activities from which it may earn revenues and incur expenses, including revenues and expenses that relate to transactions with any of the group’s other components. An operating segment’s operating results are reviewed regularly by management to make decisions about resources to be allocated to the segment and assess its performance. Segment results that are reported to management include items directly attributable to a segment as well as to those that can be allocated on a reasonable basis. not yet adopted A number of new standards, amendments to standards and interpretations are effective for annual periods beginning after 1 January 2011 and have not been applied in preparing these consolidated financial statements. None of these is expected to have a significant effect on the consolidated financial statements of the group, except for IfRS 9 financial Instruments, which becomes mandatory for the group’s 2013 consolidated financial statements and could change the classification and measurement of financial assets. The group does not plan to adopt this standard early and the extent of the impact has not been determined. 2. sIGnIFICant aCCountInG JudGements, estImates and assumptIons In applying the group’s accounting policies management continually evaluates judgements, estimates and assumptions based on experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that may have an impact on the group. All judgements, estimates and assumptions made are believed to be reasonable based on the most current set of circumstances available to management and are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Actual results may differ from the judgements, estimates and assumptions. Significant judgements, estimates and assumptions made by management in the preparation of these financial statements are outlined below: recovery of deferred tax assets Deferred tax assets are recognised for deductible temporary differences as management considers that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available to utilise those temporary differences (refer to note 19). Impairment of loans and advances The Company assesses impairment of all loans at each reporting date by evaluating any issues particular to an asset that may lead to impairment. In the Directors’ opinion, no such impairment exists beyond that provided at 31 December 2011 (refer to note 20). long service leave provisions The liability for long service leave is recognised and measured as the present value of the estimated future cash flows to be made in respect of all employees at balance date. In determining the present value of a liability, attrition rates and pay increases through promotion and inflation have been taken into account. A discount rate equal to the government bond rate has been used in determining the present value of the obligation (refer to note 25). legal provision As at 31 December 2011, a provision has been accrued to reflect potential claims. In the Directors’ opinion, the outcome of these legal claims is unlikely to give rise to any significant loss beyond the amounts provided at 31 December 2011 (refer to note 24). Intangible assets The intangible assets acquired have been valued using the net present value of the unlevered free cash flow from each business’ client list. These valuations are outlined below: Bell Foreign Exchange and Futures business The amortisation period for the acquired intangible assets of the foreign Exchange and futures business is deemed to be 10 years. This was determined by analysing the average length of the relationship clients have with the business. Impairment of goodwill goodwill is tested for impairment at each reporting date, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicated that it might be impaired. for the purpose of impairment testing, goodwill is allocated to Bell Potter Broking and Margin Lending which represents the lowest level at which it is monitored for internal management purposes. The recoverable amount of the business to which each goodwill component is allocated is estimated based on its value in use and is determined by discounting the future cash flows generated from continuing use. The result of the impairment testing performed did not result in any impairment being identified. Key assumptions used in discounted cash flow projections The key assumptions used in calculation of the recoverable amounts are discount rates and terminal value multiples. dIsCount rate 2011 % 10 11 2010 % 10 11 termInal value multIple 2011 2010 n/a 7x n/a 7x Broking Margin Lending Broking Margin Lending The discount rate used is a pre-tax measure based on the risk-free rate, adjusted for a risk premium to reflect both the increased risk of investing in equities and the systematic risk of the specific business. Risk management policies are established to identify and analyse the risks faced by the group, to set appropriate risk limits and controls, and to monitor risks and adherence to limits. Risk management policies and systems are reviewed regularly to reflect changes in market conditions and the group’s activities. The group, through its training and management standards and procedures, aims to develop a disciplined and constructive control environment in which all employees understand their roles and obligations. The group Risk and Audit Committee oversees how management monitors compliance with the group’s risk management policies and procedures and reviews the adequacy of the risk management framework in relation to the risks faced by the group. Internal Audit assists the group Risk and Audit Committee in its oversight role. Internal Audit undertakes both regular and ad hoc reviews of risk management controls and procedures, the results of which are reported to the group Risk and Audit Committee. 3. FInanCIal rIsk manaGement market risk overview The group’s principal financial instruments comprise listed securities, derivatives, term deposits and cash. The group has exposure to the following risks from its use of financial instruments: ■ market risk; ■ credit risk; and ■ liquidity risk. risk management framework The Board of Directors has overall responsibility for the establishment and oversight of the risk management framework. The Board has established the group Risk and Audit Committee, which is responsible for developing and monitoring risk management policies. The Committee reports regularly to the Board of Directors on its activities. Market risk is the risk that changes in market prices, such as interest rates, equity prices and foreign exchange rates will affect the group’s income or the value of its holdings of financial instruments. The objective of market risk management is to manage and control exposures within acceptable parameters, while optimising returns. Equity price risk All instruments are subject to the risk that future changes in market conditions may make an instrument less valuable. As trading instruments are valued with reference to the market or Black and Scholes model, changes in equity prices directly affect reported income in each period. The group continually monitors equity price movements to ensure the impact on the group’s activities is managed. 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 33 NOTES TO THE fINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 3. FInanCIal rIsk manaGement CONTINUEd Interest rate risk Interest rate risk arises from the potential for change in interest rates to have an adverse effect on the group’s net earnings. The group continually monitors movements in interest rates and manages exposure accordingly. The Board has also approved the use of derivatives, in the form of interest rate swaps, to mitigate its exposure to interest rate risk. Changes in the fair value and effectiveness of interest rate swaps (which are designated cash flow hedging instruments) are monitored on a six- monthly basis. Currency risk The group is exposed to currency risk on monetary assets and liabilities held in a currency other than the respective functional currency of the group. The group ensures the net exposure is kept to an acceptable level by buying or selling foreign currencies at spot rates where necessary to address short-term imbalances. liquidity risk Liquidity risk is the risk that the group will not be able to meet its financial obligations as they fall due. The group’s approach to managing this risk is to ensure that it will always have sufficient liquidity to meet its liabilities when due, under both normal and stressed conditions, without incurring unacceptable losses or risking damage to the group’s reputation. Ultimate responsibility for liquidity risk management rests with the Board of Directors, which has built an appropriate liquidity risk management framework for the management of the group’s short, medium and long-term funding requirements. The group manages liquidity by maintaining reserves, banking facilities and reserve borrowing facilities and by continuously monitoring forecast and actual cash flows and matching up maturity profiles of financial assets and liabilities. 34 with respect to the maturity of financial liabilities, the group also: ■ holds financial assets for which there is a liquid market and that they are readily saleable to meet liquidity needs; and ■ has committed borrowing facilities or other lines of credit that it can access to meet liquidity needs. Credit risk Credit risk is the financial loss to the group if a debtor or counterparty to a financial instrument fails to meet its contractual obligations. Trade and other receivables The credit risk for these accounts is that financial assets recognised on the balance sheet exceed their carrying amount, net of any provisions for doubtful debts. In relation to client debtors, the group’s credit risk concentration is minimised as transactions are settled on a delivery versus payment basis with a settlement regime of trade day plus three days. Margin lending Management has a process in place and the exposure to credit risk is monitored on an ongoing basis. The group requires collateral in respect of margin loans made in the course of business. This collateral is generally in the form of the underlying security the margin loan is used to invest in. Loan to value ratios (LVRs) are assigned to determine the amounts of lending allowed against each security. Loans balances are reviewed daily and are subject to margin calls once the geared value falls 10% lower than the loan balance. warnings are sent between 5% and 10%. Capital management The Board’s policy is to maintain a strong capital base so as to maintain investor, creditor and market confidence and to sustain future development of the business. The group is required to comply with certain capital and liquidity requirements imposed by regulators as a licensed broking firm. All capital requirements are monitored by the Board and the group was in compliance with all requirements throughout the year. security arrangements The ANZ Bank has a Registered Mortgage Debenture over the assets and undertakings of the Company. 4. determInatIon oF FaIr values A number of the group’s accounting policies and disclosures require the determination of fair value, for both financial and non-financial assets and liabilities. fair values have been determined and disclosed based on the following methods. where applicable, further information about the assumptions made in determining fair values is disclosed in the notes specific to that asset or liability. Intangible assets The fair value of intangible assets acquired in a business combination is based on the discounted cash flows expected to be derived from the assets. Investments in equity The fair values of financial assets at fair value through profit and loss are determined with reference to the quoted bid price or if unquoted determined using a valuation model at reporting date. derivatives The fair value of interest rate swaps is based on a mark-to-market model with reference to prevailing fixed and floating interest rates. These quotes are tested for reasonableness by discounting estimated future cash flows based on term to maturity of each contract and using market interest rates for a similar instrument at the measurement date. The fair value of options is determined using the Black and Scholes option- pricing model. share based payments The fair value of employee stock options is determined using a Black and Scholes model. Measurement inputs include share price, exercise price, volatility, weighted average expected life of the instrument, expected dividends and risk free interest rate. Service and non- market conditions are not taken into account in determining fair value. 5. seGment reportInG Business segments The group comprises the following main business segments: ■ Broking – equities, futures, foreign exchange, corporate fee income and portfolio administration services; and ■ Margin lending and deposits. Revenue from operations Profit / (loss) after tax Segment assets Investment in associates total assets Segment liabilities total liabilities otHer seGment detaIls Interest revenue Interest expense Depreciation / amortisation Share of net losses of associates Revenue from operations Profit / (loss) after tax Segment assets Investment in associates total assets Segment liabilities total liabilities otHer seGment detaIls Interest revenue Interest expense Depreciation / amortisation Share of net losses of associates Geographical segments BrokInG 2011 $ ‘000 139,521 6,013 237,381 11,068 248,449 80,917 80,917 4,400 (342) (1,398) (1,134) BrokInG 2010 $ ‘000 183,991 20,047 305,549 10,439 315,988 145,351 145,351 4,303 (252) (1,592) (1,034) elImInatIons 2011 $ ‘000 ConsolIdated 2011 $ ‘000 200,214 (8,154) marGIn lendInG 2011 $ ‘000 16,026 1,626 - 200,214 193,105 193,105 16,016 (9,764) - - marGIn lendInG 2010 $ ‘000 16,254 1,522 - (8,154) (8,154) (8,154) (579) 579 - - - - - - 226,735 (13,227) - 226,735 221,031 221,031 16,230 (10,101) - - - (13,227) (13,227) (13,227) (631) 631 - - 155,547 7,639 429,441 11,068 440,509 265,868 265,868 19,837 (9,527) (1,398) (1,134) 200,245 21,569 519,057 10,439 529,496 353,155 353,155 19,902 (9,722) (1,592) (1,034) elImInatIons 2010 $ ‘000 ConsolIdated 2010 $ ‘000 The group operates predominantly within Australia and has a subsidiary in London. 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 35 NOTES TO THE fINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 6. renderInG oF servICes Brokerage Corporate fee income Trailing commissions Portfolio administration fees Other 7. InvestInG InCome Dividends received Profit / (loss) on trading of listed and unlisted securities 8. otHer InCome Bad debts recovered Sundry income 9. FInanCe InCome and eXpenses Interest income on bank deposits Interest income on loans and advances total finance income Bank interest expense Interest expense on deposits total finance expense net finance income / (expense) 10. employee eXpenses wages and salaries Superannuation Payroll tax Other employee expenses Equity-settled share-based payments 36 ConsolIdated 2011 $ ‘000 98,403 26,861 6,377 7,717 1,182 2010 $ ‘000 118,257 38,069 6,314 8,212 985 140,540 171,837 146 (5,792) (5,646) 15 801 816 3,821 16,016 19,837 (1,424) (8,103) (9,527) 10,310 184 7,424 7,608 10 888 898 3,672 16,230 19,902 (1,621) (8,101) (9,722) 10,180 (80,100) (105,388) (7,607) (4,679) (1,989) (8) (7,258) (4,935) (1,936) (76) (94,383) (119,593) 11. InCome taX eXpense Current taX eXpense Current period Adjustment for prior periods deFerred taX eXpense Origination and reversal of temporary differences total income tax expense / (benefit) numerical reconciliation between tax-expense and pre-tax profit Accounting profit (before income tax) Income tax using the Company’s domestic tax rate of 30% (2010: 30%) Non-deductible expenses Adjustments in respect of current income tax of previous year tax consolidation Bell financial group and its wholly owned Australian controlled entities are a tax-consolidated group. 12. CasH and CasH equIvalents Cash on hand Cash at bank Short-term deposits marGIn lendInG CasH Cash at bank Short-term deposits ClIent CasH Cash at bank (Trust account) Segregated cash at bank (client) ConsolIdated 2011 $ ‘000 5,206 23 5,229 (1,168) 4,061 11,700 3,510 528 23 2010 $ ‘000 8,611 23 8,634 1,404 10,038 31,607 9,482 533 23 4,061 10,038 9 23,082 15,372 38,463 5,452 40,000 45,452 17,744 8,274 26,018 9 41,545 27,311 68,865 26,233 5,026 31,259 20,706 5,844 26,550 Cash and cash equivalents in the statement of cash flows 109,933 126,674 Cash on hand, Cash at bank and Short-term deposits represent group cash reserves. Cash on hand and at bank earns interest at floating rates based on daily bank deposit rates. Short-term deposits are made for periods of between 7 days and 90 days. Segregated cash and Trust bank balances earn interest at floating rates based on daily bank rates. The group’s exposure to interest rate risk for financial assets and liabilities is disclosed in note 31. 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 37 NOTES TO THE fINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 13. trade and otHer reCeIvaBles Current Trade debtors Less: Impairment Segregated deposits with clearing brokers1 Sundry debtors ConsolIdated 2011 $ ‘000 23,513 (4) 23,509 25,101 3,801 52,411 The movement for the allowance in impairment in respect of loans and receivables during the year was as follows: Balance at 1 January Bad debts written off Bad debts recovered Balance at 31 december 19 - (15) 4 2010 $ ‘000 28,829 (19) 28,810 32,207 3,761 64,778 29 - (10) 19 1 Mf global Australia Limited (‘MfgA’) was placed into Voluntary Administration on 1 November 2011 as a result of the failure of its parent company Mf global Inc. At the time MfgA was placed into Administration, all client positions were fully funded in segregated accounts. Open futures and options positions held at 1 November have now either been closed out or have been transferred to another broker, and the net Australian dollar cash equivalent owed to Bell Potter Securities by MfgA is $3.8 million. The $3.8 million is carried on the statement of financial position as a receivable at 31 December. 14. FInanCIal assets Current (at FaIr value) Shares in listed corporations Unlisted options held for trading 15. FInanCIal lIaBIlItIes Current (at FaIr value) Trading liabilities 38 1,840 248 2,088 10,980 7,064 18,044 - - 2,449 2,449 16. property, plant and equIpment ConsolIdated year ended 31 deCemBer 2011 Balance at 1 January 2011 (net accumulated depreciation) Additions Disposals Depreciation charge for the year Balance at 31 december 2011 BalanCe at 1 January 2011 Cost Accumulated depreciation net carrying amount BalanCe at 31 deCemBer 2011 Cost Accumulated depreciation net carrying amount year ended 31 deCemBer 2010 Balance at 1 January 2010 (net accumulated depreciation) Additions Disposals Depreciation charge for the year Balance at 31 december 2010 BalanCe at 1 January 2010 Cost Accumulated depreciation net carrying amount BalanCe at 31 deCemBer 2010 Cost Accumulated depreciation net carrying amount FIXtures and FIttInGs $ ‘000 oFFICe equIpment $ ‘000 leaseHold Improvements $ ‘000 548 245 - (161) 632 1,852 (1,304) 548 2,097 (1,465) 632 628 92 (23) (149) 548 2,037 (1,409) 628 1,852 (1,304) 548 836 1,146 - (533) 1,449 3,931 (3,095) 836 5,077 (3,628) 1,449 658 949 (42) (729) 836 6,398 (5,740) 658 3,931 (3,095) 836 1,146 293 - (409) 1,030 5,697 (4,551) 1,146 5,990 (4,960) 1,030 1,354 289 (78) (419) 1,146 5,673 (4,319) 1,354 5,697 (4,551) 1,146 total $ ‘000 2,530 1,684 - (1,103) 3,111 11,480 (8,950) 2,530 13,164 (10,053) 3,111 2,640 1,330 (143) (1,297) 2,530 14,108 (11,468) 2,640 11,480 (8,950) 2,530 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 39 NOTES TO THE fINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 17. GoodWIll and IntanGIBle assets ConsolIdated year ended 31 deCemBer 2011 Balance at 1 January 2011 Additions1 Amortisation Impairment Balance at 31 december 2011 BalanCe at 1 January 2011 Cost (gross carrying amount) Accumulated amortisation Accumulated impairment net carrying amount BalanCe at 31 deCemBer 2011 Cost (gross carrying amount) Accumulated amortisation Accumulated impairment net carrying amount GoodWIll $ ‘000 IdentIFIaBle IntanGIBles $ ‘000 126,479 (7,660) - - 2,036 - (295) - total $ ‘000 128,515 (7,660) (295) - 118,819 1,741 120,560 126,479 - - 2,945 (909) - 129,424 (909) - 126,479 2,036 128,515 118,819 - - 2,945 (1,204) - 121,764 (1,204) - 118,819 1,741 120,560 1. This is the adjustment relating to the final instalment payment of the SCE acquisition. Refer to note 24 for further information. year ended 31 deCemBer 2010 Balance at 1 January 2010 Additions Amortisation Impairment Balance at 31 december 2010 BalanCe at 1 January 2010 Cost (gross carrying amount) Accumulated amortisation Accumulated impairment net carrying amount BalanCe at 31 deCemBer 2010 Cost (gross carrying amount) Accumulated amortisation Accumulated impairment net carrying amount 40 103,496 22,983 - - 2,331 - (295) - 105,827 22,983 (295) - 126,479 2,036 128,515 103,496 - - 2,945 (614) - 106,441 (614) - 103,496 2,331 105,827 126,479 - - 2,945 (909) - 129,424 (909) - 126,479 2,036 128,515 18. Investments In equIty aCCounted Investees The group’s share of the loss (after tax) in its equity accounted investees for the year was $1,134,182 (2010: $1,034,440). Equity accounted investees also have a 31 December balance date. Summary financial information for equity accounted investees, not adjusted for the percentage ownership held by the group. In tHousands oF aud 2011 Third Party Platform Pty Ltd (Bell Direct) 2010 Third Party Platform Pty Ltd (Bell Direct) oWnersHIp % total assets $ ‘000 total lIaBIlItIes $ ‘000 revenues $ ‘000 eXpenses $ ‘000 proFIt/ (loss) aFter taX $ ‘000 45% 40% 38,570 38,570 51,754 51,754 (31,633) (31,633) (44,796) (44,796) 7,231 7,231 5,789 5,789 (11,061) (11,061) (9,700) (9,700) (2,689) (2,689) (2,743) (2,743) The Company has a call option to purchase all the Bell Direct shares it does not own, taking its holding to 100%, exercisable at any time up until 31 January 2015. The exercise price of the call option is to be satisfied by the Company issuing new shares and values all of Bell Direct’s existing share capital at $70 million and its exercise is subject to approvals by non-executive Directors and shareholders. In August 2011 the Company participated in a rights issue increasing its stake in Bell Direct from 40% to 45%. 19. deFerred taX assets and lIaBIlItIes Deferred tax assets are attributable to the following: tHe BalanCe ComprIses temporary dIFFerenCes attrIButaBle to: statement oF FInanCIal posItIon InCome statement ConsolIdated Depreciation Employee benefits Other items gross deferred income tax assets Deferred income tax charge Deferred tax liabilities are attributable to the following: Investments 20. loans and advanCes Current Margin Lending Refer to note 31 for further detail on the Margin Lending loans. 2011 $ ‘000 354 1,203 741 2,298 2010 $ ‘000 427 1,872 609 2,908 2011 $ ‘000 (73) (669) 132 2010 $ ‘000 (94) 517 (522) (610) (99) (3) (3) 1,781 1,781 1,778 1,778 (1,305) (1,305) ConsolIdated 2011 $ ‘000 2010 $ ‘000 138,498 138,498 174,907 174,907 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 41 NOTES TO THE fINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 21. trade and otHer payaBles Current Settlement obligations Sundry creditors and accruals Segregated client liabilities ConsolIdated 2011 $ ‘000 30,907 6,872 34,572 72,351 2010 $ ‘000 35,580 10,511 47,242 93,333 Settlement obligations are non-interest bearing and are normally settled on 3-day terms. Sundry creditors are normally settled on 60-day terms. 22. deposIts and BorroWInGs This note provides information about the contractual terms of the group’s interest-bearing loans and borrowings. for more information about the group’s exposure to interest rate and foreign currency risk, see note 31. Current lIaBIlItIes finance lease liabilities Deposits (cash account)1 Cash advance facility2 - 83 182,402 189,132 - 15,000 182,402 204,215 1 Borrowings relate to Margin Lending / Cash Account business (Bell Potter Capital) which are largely at call. 2 Represents drawn funds from available cash advance facility of $150 million (Bell Potter Capital). Interest rate risk exposures Details of the group’s exposure to interest rate changes on borrowings is set out in note 31. terms and debt repayment schedule Terms and conditions of outstanding deposits and borrowings were as follows: ConsolIdated CurrenCy Cash advance facility* AUD Deposits (Cash Account)* AUD finance lease liabilities AUD averaGe eFFeCtIve Interest rate - 3.93% - 2011 2010 year oF maturIty FaCe value $ ‘000 CarryInG amount $ ‘000 FaCe value $ ‘000 CarryInG amount $ ‘000 2012 2012 2011 - - 15,000 15,000 182,402 182,402 189,132 189,132 - - 83 83 182,402 182,402 204,215 204,215 * Borrowings relate to Margin Lending / Cash Account business (Bell Potter Capital) which are largely at call. 42 Finance lease liabilities finance lease liabilities of the group are payable as follows: mInImum lease payments 2011 $ ‘000 - - - - Interest 2011 $ ‘000 prInCIpal 2011 $ ‘000 - - - - - - - - mInImum lease payments 2010 $ ‘000 83 - - 83 Interest 2010 $ ‘000 prInCIpal 2010 $ ‘000 - - - - 83 - - 83 ConsolIdated Less than one year Between one and five years More than five years 23. Current taX lIaBIlItIes The current tax liability of the group is $1,019,859 (2010: $3,158,803). This amount represents the amount of income taxes payable in respect of current and prior financial periods. 24. provIsIons Current SCE provision Legal provision Other Balance at 1 January arIsInG durInG tHe year: SCE Legal/other utIlIsed: SCE Legal/other Balance at 31 december sCe provision ConsolIdated 2011 $ ‘000 - 750 - 750 24,482 - - 2010 $ ‘000 22,983 1,213 286 24,482 24,692 22,983 77 (22,983) (22,983) (749) 750 (287) 24,482 The Company’s 2008, 2009 and 2010 Annual Reports summarised details of the acquisition by the Company of all of the issued capital of SCE and the amendments to the terms of that acquisition. As a result of the agreements made in 2009, from 1 July 2009 SCE was entitled to pay total remuneration to front office employees of up to 50% of SCE revenue (increased from 40%). The consideration for these amendments was a reduction in the total potential purchase price for SCE from $145.8 million to $114.8 million. The purchase price was payable 50% in cash and 50% in Bell financial shares. 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 43 NOTES TO THE fINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 24. provIsIons CONTINUEd One quarter of the original cash consideration was paid on completion (30 September 2008). The revised agreement reduced the three further equal cash instalments potentially payable on the anniversary of completion in 2009, 2010 and 2011 respectively from $18.2 million to $13.1 million (totalling $39.3 million). Those payments were subject to the original performance benchmarks being met. The scrip component of the consideration was satisfied on completion by the issue of 14,580,000 Ordinary shares, 14,580,000 A Class, 14,580,000 B Class and 14,580,000 C Class shares. In 2009, the number of A Class shares was reduced from 14,580,000 to 10,446,681, the number of B Class shares reduced from 14,580,000 to 10,446,681 and the number of C Class shares reduced from 14,580,000 to 10,446,681. Those A, B and C Class shares potentially converted into Ordinary shares on the anniversary of completion in 2009, 2010 and 2011 respectively, subject to the performance benchmarks being met. If the performance benchmarks were fully met then all A Class, B Class and C Class shares would be converted to Ordinary Bfg shares on a one for one basis. If the benchmarks were not met, the purchase price would be adjusted. SCE revenue for the financial year 1 July 2008 to 30 June 2009 did not reach the first benchmark of $37.4 million therefore no cash or scrip instalment was payable to the SCE vendors for 2009. At 30 June 2010 SCE met the performance benchmark for the full second instalment, which was paid in the fourth quarter of 2010. This instalment included the B Class shares being converted into Ordinary shares on 29 September 2010. At 30 June 2011 SCE revenue met the performance benchmark for two-thirds of the third and final instalment, which was paid in the fourth quarter of 2011. This instalment included two-thirds of the C Class shares being converted into ordinary shares of the Company on 28 November 2011. As revenue did not exceed the benchmark in the 2011 year, none of the 2009 cash instalment was paid and the A Class shares did not convert into ordinary shares. All the A Class shares and the remaining C Class shares were each converted to 0.0001 ordinary shares on 28 November 2011. Total consideration paid for the SCE business was approximately $70 million, consisting of $40 million cash and 32 million shares in the Company. Under the original arrangements, the potential consideration was $72.9 million cash and 58.3 million shares. legal provision This amount represents a provision for certain legal claims brought against the group. In the Directors’ opinion, the outcome of these legal claims is unlikely to give rise to any significant liability beyond the amounts provided at 31 December 2011. 25. employee BeneFIts Current Salaries and wages accrued Liability for annual leave total employee benefits - current non-Current Liability for long-service leave total employee benefits – non-current ConsolIdated 2011 $ ‘000 3,520 3,150 6,670 2,444 2,444 2010 $ ‘000 18,499 2,608 21,107 2,621 2,261 The present value of employee entitlements not expected to be settled within twelve months of balance date have been calculated using the following inputs or assumptions: Assumed rate of increase on wage / salaries Discount rate Settlement term (years) Number of employees at year end 44 ConsolIdated 2011 5.5% 4.3% 7 658 2010 5.5% 4.8% 7 661 26. reConCIlIatIon oF CasH FloWs From operatInG aCtIvItIes CasH FloWs From operatInG aCtIvItIes Profit after tax Adjustments for: Depreciation & amortisation Loss on disposal of property, plant & equipment Net (gain) / loss on investments Share of losses of equity accounted investees Equity settled share-based payments (Increase) / decrease current client receivables (Increase) / decrease current other receivables (Increase) / decrease other current assets (Increase) / decrease deferred tax assets Increase / (decrease) current client payables Increase / (decrease) current other payables Increase / (decrease) current tax liabilities Increase / (decrease) current provisions Increase / (decrease) non-current payables Increase / (decrease) non-current provisions net cash from operating activities reConCIlIatIon oF CasH for the purpose of the cash flow statement, cash and cash equivalents comprise: Cash on hand Cash at bank Short-term deposits marGIn lendInG CasH Cash at bank Short-term deposits ClIent CasH Cash at bank (Trust account) Segregated cash at bank (client) ConsolIdated 2011 $ ‘000 2010 $ ‘000 7,639 21,569 1,398 - 5,792 1,134 8 15,971 12,407 (40) 159 610 (17,343) (3,639) (2,139) (14,909) (1,778) (177) 1,592 143 (7,424) 1,034 76 16,990 16,795 (816) 9 99 (8,812) 2,016 (3,627) (3,473) 1,305 344 (10,878) 20,830 9 23,082 15,372 38,463 5,452 40,000 45,452 17,744 8,274 26,018 9 41,545 27,311 68,865 26,233 5,026 31,259 20,706 5,844 26,550 109,933 126,674 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 45 NOTES TO THE fINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 27. CapItal and reserves share capital ordInary sHares On issue at 1 January Share issue on issue at 31 december movements in ordinary share capital date detaIls 1 January 2010 Opening balance 29 September 2010 Share Issue (B Class Shares conversion) 31 December 2010 Balance 1 January 2011 Opening Balance 28 November 2011 Share Issue (A Class Shares conversion) 28 November 2011 Share Issue (C Class Shares conversion) 31 December 2011 Balance Ordinary Shares ConsolIdated 2011 $ ‘000 2010 $ ‘000 157,666 147,742 6,618 9,924 164,284 157,666 numBer oF sHares 242,210,523 10,446,681 252,657,204 252,657,204 1,045 6,964,800 259,623,049 On the 28 November 2011, 6,964,454 fully paid C Class shares were converted into fully paid Ordinary shares as a result of Southern Cross Equities meeting 2011 performance benchmarks. On the same date, the remaining 3,482,227 C Class shares and the remaining 10,448,681 fully paid A Class shares were converted to 0.0001 fully paid Ordinary shares, totalling 1,391 Ordinary shares. for further information, refer to note 24. The authorised capital of the group is $164,283,700 representing 259,623,049 fully paid ordinary shares. The holders of ordinary shares are entitled to receive dividends as declared from time to time and are entitled to one vote per share at meetings of the Company. All ordinary shares rank equally with regard to the Company’s residual assets. Treasury Shares As at 31 December 2011, there were 1,437,749 treasury shares outstanding (2010: nil). distributable profits reserve The distributable profits reserve records profits that are distributable as dividends. Cash flow hedging reserve The cash flow hedging reserve comprises the effective portion of the cumulative net change in the fair value of the interest rate swap related to hedged transactions. share based payments reserve The share based payments reserve arises on the grant of options, performance rights and deferred share rights to select employees under the Company’s equity-based remuneration plans. treasury shares reserve The treasury shares reserve represents the cost of shares held by the Employee Share Trust that the group is required to include in the consolidated financial statements. 46 28. dIvIdends Dividends recognised in the current year by the group are: 2011 Interim 2011 ordinary 2010 Interim 2010 ordinary final 2010 ordinary Cents per sHare total amount $ ‘000 Franked / unFranked date oF payment 2.0 2.5 4.0 5,053 franked 23 September 2011 6,056 10,106 franked 23 September 2010 franked 25 March 2011 Company 2011 $ ‘000 2010 $ ‘000 dIvIdend FrankInG aCCount 30 per cent franking credits available to shareholders of Bell financial group Ltd for subsequent financial years 17,636 16,908 On 22 february 2012, the Directors declared a final fully franked dividend of 1.0 cent per share, payable on 23 March 2012. This amount is not accrued within the financial statements. The above available amounts are based on the balance of the dividend franking account at year-end adjusted for: 1) franking credits that will arise from the payment of current tax liabilities. 2) franking debits that will arise from payment of dividends recognised as a liability at year-end. 3) franking credits that will arise from the receipt of dividends recognised as receivable at year-end. The ability to utilise the franking credits is dependent upon there being sufficient available profits to declare dividends. The impact on the dividend franking account of dividends declared but not recognised as a liability is to reduce it by $1,112,670 (2010: $4,331,266). 29. earnInGs per sHare Earnings per share at 31 December 2011 based on profit after tax and a weighted average number of shares outlined below was 3.0 cents (2010: 8.7 cents). Diluted earnings per share at 31 December 2011 was 3.0 cents (2010: 8.7 cents). reconciliation of earnings used in calculating eps BasIC earnInGs per sHare Profit after tax profit attributable to ordinary equity holders used for basic eps Adjustments for calculation of diluted earnings per share: Profit attributable to ordinary equity holders used to calculate basic EPS Effect of stock options issued profit attributable to ordinary equity holders used for diluted eps ConsolIdated 2011 $ ‘000 7,639 7,639 2010 $ ‘000 21,569 21,569 7,639 21,569 - - 7,639 21,569 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 47 NOTES TO THE fINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 29. earnInGs per sHare CONTINUEd Weighted average number of ordinary shares used as the denominator ConsolIdated 2011 numBer 2010 numBer weighted average number of ordinary shares used to calculate basic EPS (net of treasury shares) 256,071,016 247,476,788 weighted average number of ordinary shares at year-end Weighted average number of ordinary shares used to calculate diluted eps 256,071,016 247,476,788 256,071,016 247,476,788 30. sHare-Based payments long-term Incentive plan (ltIp) The Board is responsible for administering the LTIP Rules and the terms and conditions of specific grants of options or performance rights to participants in the LTIP. The LTIP Rules include the following provisions: ■ The Board may determine which persons will be eligible to participate in the LTIP from time to time. Eligible persons may be invited to apply to participate in the LTIP. The Board may in its discretion accept such applications. ■ A person participating in the LTIP (“Executive”) may be granted options or performance rights on conditions determined by the Board. ■ The options or performance rights will vest on, and become exercisable on or after, a date predetermined by the Board (“the Vesting Date”), provided that the Executive remains employed as an executive of the Company as at that date. These terms may be accelerated at the discretion of the Board under specified circumstances. ■ An unvested option or performance right will generally lapse at the expiry of the exercise period applicable to that option or performance right. ■ following the Vesting Date, the vested option or performance right may be exercised by the Executive subject to any exercise conditions and the payment of the exercise price (if any), and the Executive will then be allocated or issued Shares on a one-for-one basis. ■ The Company has established an Employee Share Trust for the purpose of acquiring and holding shares in the Company for the benefit of participants. Fair value of options granted There were no options granted during the year to 31 December 2011. The assessed fair value at grant date of options issued in 2007 was $319,923. The fair value was independently determined using the Black and Scholes option-pricing model. An outline of details and assumptions used in the valuation of share options granted is provided below: FaIr value oF sHare optIons and assumptIons fair value at grant date Share price at grant date Exercise price at grant date Option life (expected weighted average life) Expected volatility (weighted average volatility) Risk-free interest rate (based on government bonds) 1 Options can be exercised for a period of up to 12 months from exercise date. 48 2007 $0.0262 $1.55 $3.10 15 Dec 20101 25% 6.55% The number and weighted average exercise prices of share options is as follows: Outstanding 1 January $2.00 17,708,959 $2.00 18,193,959 WeIGHted averaGe eXerCIse prICe 2011 numBer oF optIons 2011 WeIGHted averaGe eXerCIse prICe 2010 numBer oF optIons 2010 granted forfeited Expired outstanding 31 december exercisable 31 december performance rights - - - - - - - (17,708,959) - - - - - $2.00 - - (485,000) - 17,708,959 - Under the LTIP Rules, performance rights are deferred equity taken as 100% shares, with the conditions, including vesting and the period of deferral, governed by the terms of the grant. Unvested performance rights are forfeited in certain situations set out in the LTIP Rules. Ordinary shares allocated under the LTIP on exercise of performance rights may be held in trust beyond the deferral period. The issue price for performance rights is based on the closing price of the shares traded on the ASX on the grant date. During the 2011 year, 2,000,000 performance rights with an issue price of $0.60 were granted under the LTIP (2010: nil). expenses arising from share-based payment transactions Share options granted in 2007 – equity settled Performance rights total expense recognised as employee costs 31. FInanCIal Instruments ConsolIdated 2011 $ ‘000 2010 $ ‘000 - 8 8 76 - 76 Exposure to credit, interest rate, currency and liquidity risks arise in the normal course of the group’s business. Credit risk Management has a process in place to monitor the exposure to credit risk on an ongoing basis. The group requires collateral in respect of margin loans made in the course of business within Bell Potter Capital. This collateral is generally in the form of the underlying security the margin loan is used to invest in. A loan to value ratio (LVR) is determined for each security with regard to market weight, index membership, liquidity, volatility, dividend yield, industry sector and advice from Bell financial’s research department. A risk analyst performs a review of the LVR and the recommendation is submitted to Management. Management does not expect any counterparty to fail to meet its obligations. Advisers and clients are provided with early warning of accounts in deficit from 5% up to 10% and clients receive a margin call if their account is in deficit by more than 10%. Margin calls are made based on the end-of-day position but can be made intraday at Management’s discretion. 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 49 NOTES TO THE fINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 31. FInanCIal Instruments CONTINUEd The maximum exposure to credit risk is represented by the carrying amount of each financial asset on the Statement of financial Position as outlined below: Trade debtors Segregated deposits with clearing brokers Loans and advances Sundry debtors The ageing of trade receivables at reporting date is outlined below. ConsolIdated 2011 $ ‘000 23,509 25,101 2010 $ ‘000 28,810 32,207 138,498 174,907 3,801 3,761 note 13. 13. 20. 13. ConsolIdated Gross ImpaIrment Gross ImpaIrment aGeInG oF reCeIvaBles Not past due Past due 0 – 30 days Past due 31-120 days More than one year 2011 $ ‘000 22,763 578 55 117 2011 $ ‘000 - - - (4) 2010 $ ‘000 27,292 1,352 49 136 2010 $ ‘000 - - - (19) Collectability of trade receivables is reviewed on an ongoing basis. Debts that are known to be uncollectible are written off. A provision for impairment of trade receivables is established when there is evidence that the Company will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original terms. Significant financial difficulties of the debtor, probability that the debtor will enter bankruptcy and default or delinquency in payments (for amounts greater than 30 days overdue) are considered indicators that the trade receivable is impaired. liquidity risk The following are the contractual maturities of financial liabilities, including estimated interest excluding the impact of netting agreements. ConsolIdated 2011 non-derIvatIve lIaBIlItIes CarryInG amount $ ‘000 ContraCted CasHFloW $ ‘000 6-montHs or less $ ‘000 6-12 montHs $ ‘000 1-2 years $ ‘000 2-5 years $ ‘000 5+ years $ ‘000 Trade & other payables 72,351 (72,351) (72,351) finance lease liabilities - - - Cash deposits 182,402 (182,402) (182,402) Cash advance facilities - - - derIvatIve lIaBIlItIes Hedging derivative 228 (228) (228) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 50 ConsolIdated 2010 non-derIvatIve lIaBIlItIes CarryInG amount $ ‘000 ContraCted CasHFloW $ ‘000 6-montHs or less $ ‘000 6-12 montHs $ ‘000 1-2 years $ ‘000 2-5 years $ ‘000 5+ years $ ‘000 Trade & other payables 93,333 (93,333) (93,333) finance lease liabilities 83 (83) (83) - - Cash deposits 189,132 (189,132) (188,660) (472) Cash advance facilities 15,000 (15,000) - (15,000) derIvatIve lIaBIlItIes Hedging derivative 8 (8) (8) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - The group manages liquidity by maintaining reserves, banking facilities and reserve borrowing facilities and by continuously monitoring forecast and actual cash flows and matching up maturity profiles of financial assets and liabilities. Rolling cash projections are used to monitor cash flow requirements and optimise cash returns on investments. A bank facility is also available to be drawn upon in order to meet both short and long-term liquidity requirements. market risk Market risk is the risk that changes in market prices, such as interest rates, equity prices and foreign exchange rates will affect the group’s income or the value of its holdings of financial instruments. The objective of market risk management is to manage and control exposures within acceptable parameters, while optimising returns. Interest rate risk The group’s investments in fixed-rate debt securities and its fixed-rate borrowings are exposed to a risk of change in their fair value due to changes in interest rates. The group’s investments in variable-rate debt securities and its variable-rate borrowings are exposed to a risk of change in cash flows due to changes in interest rates. Interest rate swaps are used to hedge exposure to fluctuations in interest rates. Changes in the fair value of these derivative hedging instruments are recognised directly in equity to the extent that the hedge is effective. To the extent the hedge is ineffective, changes in the fair value are recognised in profit and loss. In managing interest rate risk the group aims to reduce the impact of short-term fluctuations on the group’s earnings. Over the longer-term, however, permanent changes in interest rates will have an impact on profit. Investments in equity securities and short-term receivables and payables are not exposed to interest rate risk. Equity price risk All instruments are subject to the risk that future changes in market conditions may make an instrument less valuable. As trading instruments are valued with reference to the market or Black and Scholes model, changes in equity prices directly affect reported income each period. The group monitors equity price movements to ensure there is no material impact on the group’s activities. The group is exposed to equity price risks through its listed and unlisted investments. These investments are classified as financial assets or liabilities at fair value through the profit and loss. Foreign currency risk The group is exposed to insignificant currency risk on monetary assets and liabilities held in a currency other than the respective functional currency of the group. The group ensures the net exposure is kept to an acceptable level by buying or selling foreign currencies at spot rates where necessary to address short-term imbalances. sensitivity analysis Interest rate risk At 31 December 2011, it is estimated that a general decrease of one-percentage point in interest rates would decrease the group’s profit before income tax by approximately $0.9 million (2010: $0.8 million). Interest rate swaps have been included in this calculation. A general increase of one-percentage point in interest rates would have an equal but opposite effect. Equity price risk At 31 December 2011, it is estimated that a 10% decrease in equity prices would decrease the group’s profit before income tax by approximately $0.2 million (2010: $1.6 million). A 10% increase in equity prices would have an equal but opposite effect. 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 51 total $ ‘000 32,338 (83) 43,560 (20,281) (15,000) 40,534 94,336 131,347 (168,851) 56,832 6 montHs or less $ ‘000 32,338 (83) 43,395 (19,809) - 55,841 94,336 131,347 (168,851) 56,832 5.75% 7.76% 7.64% 5.89% 5.70% 3.95% 8.91% 3.00% 165 (472) (15,000) (15,307) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - NOTES TO THE fINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 31. FInanCIal Instruments CONTINUEd effective interest rates In respect of income-earning financial assets and interest-bearing financial liabilities, the following tables indicate their average effective interest rates at the reporting date and the periods in which they mature. ConsolIdated note averaGe eFFeCtIve Interest rate total $ ‘000 6 montHs or less $ ‘000 6-12 montHs $ ‘000 1-2 years $ ‘000 2-5 years $ ‘000 more tHan 5 years $ ‘000 averaGe eFFeCtIve Interest rate 6-12 montHs $ ‘000 1-2 years $ ‘000 2-5 years $ ‘000 more tHan 5 years $ ‘000 2011 2010 FIXed rate Instruments Cash and cash equivalents finance lease liabilities Loans and advances Deposits and borrowings Cash advance facility varIaBle rate Instruments Cash and cash equivalents Loans and advances Deposits and borrowings 12. 22. 20. 22. 22. 12. 20. 22. Fair value measurements Loans 5.75% 55,372 55,372 n/a 7.99% 5.58% n/a - - 37,221 37,056 (19,587) (19,587) - - 73,006 72,841 4.25% 8.48% 54,561 54,561 101,277 101,277 3.74% (162,815) (162,815) (6,977) (6,977) - - 165 - - 165 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - fixed loan assets on the balance sheet are stated at amortised cost for the year ended 31 December 2011. The fair value of these loans at reporting date would be $0.1 million less (2010: $0.1 million less) than the carrying value based on prevailing interest rates. All other assets and liabilities carrying values approximate fair value. Financial assets and liabilities As at 31 December 2011, the group used both quoted prices and observable market inputs, other than quoted prices to fair value certain financial assets and liabilities. The table below categorises financial assets and liabilities that are recognised and measured at fair value and the valuation methodology used according to the following hierarchy: a) quoted prices in active markets – level 1 b) valuation technique using observable inputs – level 2 c) valuation technique using significant unobservable inputs – level 3. ConsolIdated assets fair value through Income Statement total assets lIaBIlItIes fair value through Income Statement Derivative liabilities total liabilities There was no movement between categories in 2011 (2010: nil). 52 FaIr value at 31 deCemBer 2011 level 1 $ ‘000 level 2 $ ‘000 level 3 $ ‘000 1,840 1,840 - - - 248 248 - 228 228 - - - - - total $ ‘000 2,088 2,088 - 228 228 FaIr value at 31 deCemBer 2010 level 1 $ ‘000 level 2 $ ‘000 level 3 $ ‘000 10,980 10,980 2,449 - 2,449 7,064 7,064 - 8 8 - - - - - total $ ‘000 18,044 18,044 2,449 8 2,457 31. FInanCIal Instruments CONTINUEd effective interest rates In respect of income-earning financial assets and interest-bearing financial liabilities, the following tables indicate their average effective interest rates at the reporting date and the periods in which they mature. ConsolIdated note Interest rate FIXed rate Instruments Cash and cash equivalents 5.75% 55,372 55,372 2011 2010 averaGe eFFeCtIve 6 montHs 6-12 total $ ‘000 or less $ ‘000 montHs 1-2 years 2-5 years $ ‘000 $ ‘000 $ ‘000 more tHan 5 years $ ‘000 averaGe eFFeCtIve Interest rate n/a 7.99% 5.58% n/a - - - - 37,221 37,056 165 (19,587) (19,587) 73,006 72,841 165 4.25% 8.48% 54,561 54,561 101,277 101,277 (6,977) (6,977) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5.75% 7.76% 7.64% 5.89% 5.70% 3.95% 8.91% 3.00% total $ ‘000 32,338 (83) 43,560 (20,281) (15,000) 40,534 94,336 131,347 (168,851) 56,832 6 montHs or less $ ‘000 32,338 (83) 43,395 (19,809) - 55,841 94,336 131,347 (168,851) 56,832 6-12 montHs $ ‘000 1-2 years $ ‘000 2-5 years $ ‘000 more tHan 5 years $ ‘000 - - 165 (472) (15,000) (15,307) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Deposits and borrowings 3.74% (162,815) (162,815) finance lease liabilities Loans and advances Deposits and borrowings Cash advance facility varIaBle rate Instruments Cash and cash equivalents Loans and advances 12. 22. 20. 22. 22. 12. 20. 22. Fair value measurements Loans fixed loan assets on the balance sheet are stated at amortised cost for the year ended 31 December 2011. The fair value of these loans at reporting date would be $0.1 million less (2010: $0.1 million less) than the carrying value based on prevailing interest rates. All other assets and liabilities carrying values approximate fair value. Financial assets and liabilities As at 31 December 2011, the group used both quoted prices and observable market inputs, other than quoted prices to fair value certain financial assets and liabilities. The table below categorises financial assets and liabilities that are recognised and measured at fair value and the valuation methodology used according to the following hierarchy: a) quoted prices in active markets – level 1 b) valuation technique using observable inputs – level 2 c) valuation technique using significant unobservable inputs – level 3. ConsolIdated assets total assets lIaBIlItIes fair value through Income Statement fair value through Income Statement Derivative liabilities total liabilities There was no movement between categories in 2011 (2010: nil). FaIr value at 31 deCemBer 2011 level 1 $ ‘000 level 2 $ ‘000 level 3 $ ‘000 1,840 1,840 - - - 248 248 - 228 228 - - - - - total $ ‘000 2,088 2,088 - 228 228 FaIr value at 31 deCemBer 2010 level 1 $ ‘000 level 2 $ ‘000 level 3 $ ‘000 10,980 10,980 2,449 - 2,449 7,064 7,064 - 8 8 - - - - - total $ ‘000 18,044 18,044 2,449 8 2,457 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 53 NOTES TO THE fINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 32. operatInG lease CommItments leases as lessee future minimum rental payments under the non-cancellable operating leases at 31 December are as follows: Less than one year Between one and five years More than five years ConsolIdated 2011 $ ‘000 11,410 34,770 30,146 76,326 2010 $ ‘000 7,931 21,288 3,285 32,504 The group has entered into commercial property leases for its office accommodation. These leases have a remaining life of up to ten years. The group has no other capital or lease commitments. 33. parent entIty dIsClosures As at, and throughout the financial year ending 31 December 2011 the parent company of the group was Bell financial group Ltd. Company 2011 $ ‘000 15,320 15,320 2010 $ ‘000 20,575 20,575 8,162 11,651 150,570 157,936 158,732 169,587 10,320 10,320 27,376 27,376 164,284 157,666 (250) 167 (15,622) (15,622) 148,412 142,211 results oF tHe parent entIty Profit for the year total comprehensive income for the year FInanCIal posItIon oF parent entIty at year end Current assets Non-current assets total assets Current liabilities total liabilities total equIty oF tHe parent entIty ComprIsInG oF: Contributed equity Reserves Retained earnings / (losses) total equity 54 34. related partIes The following were key management personnel of the group at any time during the reporting period: executive directors ■ C Bell ■ A Provan executives ■ L Bell ■ A Bell ■ B Potts – resigned 1 December 2011 ■ R fell ■ D Davenport ■ P Vine key management personnel compensation The key management personnel compensation comprised: non-executive directors ■ C Coleman ■ g Cubbin ■ M Spry ■ B wilson Short-term employee benefits Other long-term benefits Post-employment benefits Termination benefits Share-based payments ConsolIdated 2011 $ 2010 $ 3,689,261 5,296,914 - 322,845 112,258 - 302,518 - - 22,493 4,124,364 5,621,925 loans to key management personnel and their related parties Details regarding loans outstanding at the reporting date to key management personnel and their related parties at any time in the reporting period, are as follows: dIreCtors C Bell A Provan B Potts C Coleman g Cubbin M Spry B wilson eXeCutIves L Bell A Bell R fell D Davenport P Vine BalanCe 1 January 2011 $ BalanCe 31 deCemBer 2011 $ Interest paId and payaBle In tHe reportInG perIod $ HIGHest BalanCe In perIod $ 284,727 277,349 11,830 284,727 - - - - - - - - 1,738,303 1,167,715 132,950 1,822,802 - - - 3,500 517,324 1,033,347 265,156 162,126 - - - - 500,000 242,534 122,949 138,659 - - - 171 39,171 56,685 17,097 13,533 - - - 3,521 704,605 1,074,927 286,722 170,498 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 55 NOTES TO THE fINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 34. related partIes CONTINUEd dIreCtors C Bell A Provan B Potts C Coleman g Cubbin M Spry B wilson eXeCutIves L Bell A Bell R fell D Davenport P Vine BalanCe 1 January 2010 $ BalanCe 31 deCemBer 2010 $ Interest paId and payaBle In tHe reportInG perIod $ HIGHest BalanCe In perIod $ 785,688 284,727 59,285 1,149,674 - - - - - - - - 1,608,308 1,738,303 129,994 1,738,303 - - - - - - 3,500 500,000 3,500 517,324 1,763,246 1,033,347 228,996 119,945 265,156 162,126 - - - 290 37,162 98,434 19,748 12,081 - - - 3,500 1,062,836 1,835,324 265,156 162,126 Loans totalling $2,449,206 (2010: $4,004,483) were made to key management personnel and their related parties during the year. The recipients of these loans were Colin Bell, Craig Coleman, Lewis Bell, Andrew Bell, Rowan fell, Dean Davenport and Paul Vine. The loans represent margin loans held with Bell Potter Capital Limited. Interest is payable at prevailing market rates. Related parties also have deposits on normal terms and conditions. Details regarding the aggregate of loans made, guaranteed or secured by any entity in the group to key management personnel and their related parties, and the number of individuals in each group, are as follows: Total for key management personnel 2011 Total for key management personnel 2010 Total for other related parties 2011 Total for other related parties 2010 openInG BalanCe $ ClosInG BalanCe $ 4,000,983 2,449,206 5,006,183 4,000,983 3,500 3,500 - 3,500 total for key management personnel and their related parties 2011 4,004,483 2,449,206 total for key management personnel and their related parties 2010 5,009,683 4,004,483 Interest paId and payaBle In tHe reportInG perIod $ numBer In Group at 31 deCemBer 271,266 356,704 171 290 271,437 356,994 11 11 - 1 11 12 Interest is payable at prevailing market rates on all loans to key management persons and their related entities. These rates are available to all clients and may vary marginally depending on individual negotiations. The principal amounts are repayable per terms agreed on an individual basis. Interest received on the loans totalled $271,437 (2010: $356,994). No amounts have been written-down or recorded as allowances for impairment, as the balances are considered fully collectible. 56 movements in shares 2011 The movement during the reporting period in the number of ordinary shares in Bell financial group Ltd held, directly, indirectly or beneficially, by each Director and key management person, including their related parties, is as follows: Held at 1 January 2011 purCHases reCeIved on eXerCIse oF optIons sales Held at 31 deCemBer 2011 dIreCtors C Bell1 A Provan1 C Coleman g Cubbin M Spry B wilson B Potts2,3 eXeCutIves LM Bell1 Ag Bell1 R fell D Davenport P Vine 32,839,585 32,708,329 1,772,283 180,000 150,000 100,000 250,000 250,000 - - - - 3,990,692 1,007,771 32,321,837 24,793,746 610,000 184,949 50,300 98,025 68,675 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4,998,463 - - - - - 33,089,585 32,958,329 1,772,283 180,000 150,000 100,000 - 32,419,862 24,862,421 610,000 184,949 50,300 1 The number of shares held by Colin Bell, Alastair Provan, Lewis Bell and Andrew Bell includes those held indirectly through Bell group Holdings Pty Limited. 2 Brent Potts resigned as a Director on 1 December 2011. 3 “Purchases” were shares issued to Brent Potts on conversion of A Class and C Class shares on 28 November 2011. movements in shares 2010 Held at 1 January 2010 purCHases reCeIved on eXerCIse oF optIons sales Held at 31 deCemBer 2010 dIreCtors C Bell A Provan C Coleman g Cubbin M Spry B wilson B Potts eXeCutIves LM Bell Ag Bell R fell D Davenport P Vine 32,598,276 32,443,020 1,772,283 180,000 100,000 - 241,309 265,309 - - 50,000 100,000 2,479,337 1,511,355 32,089,350 24,616,171 610,000 180,651 50,300 232,487 177,575 - 4,298 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 32,839,585 32,708,329 1,772,283 180,000 150,000 100,000 3,990,692 32,321,837 24,793,746 610,000 184,949 50,300 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 57 NOTES TO THE fINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED fOR THE yEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011 34. related partIes CONTINUEd other key management personnel transactions Bell financial has an option to purchase the remaining shares of Bell Direct from the current shareholders. The current shareholders include Directors of Bell financial. Craig Coleman, currently a non-executive director, provided consultancy services to Bell financial and was paid $200,000 for those services (2010: $300,000). Brian wilson, currently a non-executive director, provided consultancy services to Bell financial and was paid $75,000 for those services (2010: nil). There are no other transactions with key management persons or their related parties other than those that have been disclosed in this report. ultimate parent Bell group Holdings Pty Ltd is the ultimate parent company of Bell financial. There are no outstanding amounts owed by the ultimate parent entity at 31 December 2011 (2010: $nil). There is no interest receivable at 31 December 2011 (2010: $nil). subsidiaries The table below outlines loans made by the Company to wholly owned subsidiaries. suBsIdIary Bell Potter Securities Limited Bell Potter financial Planning Limited2 Bell Potter Investments Pty Limited2 Bell Potter Capital Limited1 Southern Cross Equities Limited SCSH Investments Pty Ltd parent Bell group Holdings Pty Ltd 2011 $ 2010 $ - 816 50,343 - 3,225 50,343 8,053,930 13,101,969 - - 1,158,774 152,661 8,105,089 14,466,972 - - 8,105,089 14,466,972 1 The loan from the parent entity to Bell Potter Capital Limited represents a subordinated loan that attracts interest at 5.69% per annum (2010: 4.85% per annum). 2 Loan is interest free and unsecured. The table below outlines loans made by wholly owned subsidiaries to the Company. suBsIdIary Bell Potter Securities Limited Southern Cross Equities Limited 5,133,079 2,906,860 3,607,609 - 8,740,688 2,906,860 During the course of the financial year subsidiaries conducted transactions with each other and associates on terms equivalent to those on an arm’s length basis. They are fully eliminated on consolidation. As at 31 December 2011, all outstanding amounts are considered fully collectable. 58 35. Group entItIes parent entIty Bell FInanCIal Group ltd sIGnIFICant suBsIdIarIes Bell Potter Securities Limited Bell Potter Capital Limited assoCIate Third Party Platform Pty Ltd (Bell Direct) Country oF InCorporatIon 2011 2010 oWnersHIp Interest Australia Australia Australia 100% 100% 100% 100% 45% 40% In the financial statements of the Company investments in subsidiaries and investments in associates are accounted for at cost. The Company has no jointly controlled entities. 36. Guarantees from time to time Bell financial has provided financial guarantees in the ordinary course of business which amount to $17.1m (2010: $5.7m) and are not recorded in the Statement of financial Position as at 31 December 2011. 37. suBsequent events There were no significant events from 31 December 2011 to the date of this report. 38. audItor’s remuneratIon audIt servICes Auditors of the Company KPMg Australia: Audit and review of financial reports total remuneration for audit services audIt related servICes Auditors of the Company KPMg Australia: Other regulatory audit services total remuneration for audit related services ConsolIdated 2011 $ 2010 $ 325,330 386,000 325,330 386,000 82,810 82,810 97,911 97,911 408,140 483,911 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 59 DIRECTORS’ DECLARATION 1. In the opinion of the Directors of Bell financial group Ltd (‘the Company’): a) the consolidated financial statements and notes that are set out on pages 23 to 59 and the Remuneration report on pages 16 to 20 in the Directors’ report, are in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, including: i) giving a true and fair view of the group’s financial position as at 31 December 2011 and of its performance for the financial year ended on that date; and ii) complying with Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations) and the Corporations Regulations 2001; b) there are reasonable grounds to believe that the Company will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable. 2. The Directors have been given the declarations required by section 295A of the Corporations Act 2001 from the Managing Director and Chief financial Officer for the financial year ended 31 December 2011. 3. The Directors draw attention to note 1(a) of the consolidated financial statements which includes a statement of compliance with International financial Reporting Standards. Signed in accordance with a resolution of the Directors: Dated at Sydney this 22nd day of february 2012. Colin Bell Executive Chairman 60 INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS Of BELL fINANCIAL gROUP LIMITED report on tHe FInanCIal report we have audited the accompanying financial report of Bell financial group Limited (the company), which comprises the consolidated statement of financial position as at 31 December 2011, and consolidated income statement and consolidated statement of comprehensive income, consolidated statement of changes in equity and consolidated statement of cash flows for the year ended on that date, notes 1 to 38 comprising a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory information and the directors’ declaration of the group comprising the company and the entities it controlled at the year’s end or from time to time during the financial year. directors’ responsibility for the financial report The directors of the company are responsible for the preparation of the financial report that gives a true and fair view in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations Act 2001 and for such internal controls as the directors determine are necessary to enable the preparation of the financial report that is free from material misstatement whether due to fraud or error. In note 1(a), the directors also state, in accordance with Australian Accounting Standard AASB 101 Presentation of financial Statements, that the financial statements of the group comply with International financial Reporting Standards. auditor’s responsibility Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial report based on our audit. we conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. These Auditing Standards require that we comply with relevant ethical requirements relating to audit engagements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance whether the financial report is free from material misstatement. An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial report. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgement, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial report, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal controls relevant to the entity’s preparation of the financial report that gives a true and fair view in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal controls. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by the directors, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial report. we performed the procedures to assess whether in all material respects the financial report presents fairly, in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001 and Australian Accounting Standards, a true and fair view which is consistent with our understanding of the group’s financial position and of its performance. we believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion. Independence In conducting our audit, we have complied with the independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001. auditor’s opinion In our opinion: a) the financial report of the group is in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001, including: i) giving a true and fair view of the group’s financial position as at 31 December 2011 and of its performance for the year ended on that date; and ii) complying with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations Regulations 2001. b) the financial report also complies with International financial Reporting Standards as disclosed in note 1(a). 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 61 INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT CONTINUED TO THE MEMBERS Of BELL fINANCIAL gROUP LIMITED report on tHe remuneratIon report we have audited the Remuneration Report included in pages 16 to 20 of the directors’ report for the year ended 31 December 2011. The directors of the company are responsible for the preparation and presentation of the remuneration report in accordance with Section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the remuneration report, based on our audit conducted in accordance with auditing standards. audItor’s opInIon In our opinion, the remuneration report of Bell financial group Limited for the year ended 31 December 2011, complies with Section 300A of the Corporations Act 2001. kpmG don pasquariello Partner Melbourne 22 february 2012 62 ASX ADDITIONAL INfORMATION Additional information required by the ASX Limited Listing Rules and not disclosed elsewhere in this report is set out below. Shareholder information was applicable at 17 february 2012 votInG rIGHts ordinary shares Refer to note 27 in the financial statements. options There are no voting rights attached to the options. dIstrIButIon oF equIty seCurIty Holders CateGory 1 - 1,000 1,001 - 5,000 5,001 - 10,000 10,001 - 100,000 100,001 and over numBer oF equIty seCurIty Holders numBer oF Holders numBer oF sHares % oF total sHares Issued 287 941 443 623 100 2,394 183,102 3,192,116 3,776,381 19,841,036 232,630,414 259,623,049 0.07 1.23 1.45 7.65 89.60 100 The number of shareholders holding less than a marketable parcel of ordinary shares is 180. seCurItIes eXCHanGe The Company is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange. The home exchange is Melbourne. other information Bell financial group Ltd, incorporated and domiciled in Australia, is a publicly listed company limited by shares. on-market buy-back There is no current on-market buy-back. 2011 AnnuAl RepoRt. 63 ASX ADDITIONAL INfORMATION CONTINUED tWenty larGest sHareHolders name Bell group Holdings Pty Limited UBS Nominees Pty Ltd RBC Dexia Investor Services Australia Nominees Pty Limited Equitas Nominees Pty Limited Cypress Point Investments Pty Ltd Cherryburn Pty Ltd Bell Potter Nominees Ltd fatty Holdings Pty Ltd Mr Lionel Alexander Mcfadyen Zelman Pty Ltd Teragoal Pty Ltd Mr Angus william Napier Atken Colin Bell Pty Ltd Rubi Holdings Pty Ltd Moat Investments Pty Ltd walter James Unger & Danielle Angela Unger Merivale Investments Pty Ltd Teragoal Pty Ltd J P Morgan Nominees Australia Limited Mr Alastair Provan & Mrs Janis Provan suBstantIal sHareHoldInGs Bell group Holdings Pty Limited (BgH) Colin Bell Alastair Provan Lewis Bell UBS Ag, Australia Branch 1 Registered holder of 1,824,723 shares. 2 Registered holder of 1,693,467 shares. 3 Registered holder of 1,105,000 shares. numBer oF ordInary sHares Held 117,967,345 42,232,044 16,855,162 9,905,000 4,802,181 2,600,000 2,514,600 1,733,019 1,687,480 1,300,914 1,300,000 1,299,478 1,109,562 1,100,000 1,049,985 1,013,147 970,000 933,986 909,015 839,730 % oF CapItal Held 45.44 16.27 6.49 3.82 1.85 1.00 0.97 0.67 0.65 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.43 0.42 0.40 0.39 0.37 0.36 0.35 0.32 numBer oF sHares % oF Issued CapItal 117,967,345 119,792,068 119,660,812 119,072,345 42,232,044 45.44 46.141,4 46.092,4 45.863,4 16.27 4 BgH is the registered holder of 117,967,345 shares. Colin Bell, Alastair Provan and Lewis Bell are deemed to have BgH’s relevant interests in these shares because each has voting power in BgH above 20% (pursuant to section 608(3) of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth)). voluntary restrICtIons Details of the shares that are currently held in voluntary escrow are as follows: none. 64 CORPORATE DIRECTORy Bell FInanCIal Group ltd sHare reGIstry Computershare Investor services pty limited 452 Johnston Street Abbotsford VIC 3067 Telephone (03) 9415 5000 asX Code BFG Shares are listed on the Australian Securities Exchange Banker Australia and New Zealand Banking group audItor KPMg WeBsIte address www.bellfg.com.au Incorporated in Victoria on 30 June 1998 aBn 59 083 194 763 dIreCtors Colin Bell Executive Chairman alastair provan Managing Director Craig Coleman Non-executive Director Graham Cubbin Non-executive Director malcolm spry Non-executive Director Brian Wilson Non-executive Director Company seCretary Paul Vine reGIstered and Head oFFICe Level 29, 101 Collins Street Melbourne VIC 3000 Designed and produced by motivo creative media Bell Financial Group limited Level 29, 101 Collins Street Melbourne VIC 3000 Australia GPO Box 4718 Melbourne VIC 3001 Australia www.bellfg.com.au

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