Halifax, Canada
MD&A & Financial Statements
2014
Management’s Discussion & Analysis
Clarke Inc.
December 31, 2014 and 2013
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
Management’s Discussion & Analysis (“MD&A”) presents management’s view of the financial position and performance of
Clarke Inc. (“Clarke” or the “Company”) for the year ended December 31, 2014 compared with the year ended December 31,
2013. The following disclosures and associated consolidated financial statements are presented in accordance with
International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”). This MD&A should be read in conjunction with the information
disclosed within the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto for the year ended December 31, 2014 and the
Company’s Annual Information Form (“AIF”), including the risk factors described therein, available on SEDAR at
www.sedar.com. This MD&A provides an overall discussion, followed by analyses of the performance of the Company’s
major reportable segments (see note 22 to the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2014). The
MD&A is prepared as at February 23, 2014 (unless otherwise stated). All dollar amounts are shown in millions of Canadian
dollars unless otherwise indicated.
OVERVIEW & STRATEGY
Clarke is an investment company. Our objective is to maximize shareholder value. While not the perfect metric, we believe
that Clarke’s book value per share, together with the dividends paid to shareholders, is an appropriate measure of our success
in maximizing shareholder value over time.
We attempt to maximize shareholder value by allocating capital to investments that we believe will generate high returns and
reallocating capital over time as needed. In doing this, Clarke’s goal is to identify investments that are either undervalued or
are underperforming and may be in need of positive change. These investments may be companies, securities or other assets
such as real estate, and they may be public entities or private entities. We do not believe in limiting ourselves to specific
types of investments. From time to time, Clarke will invest passively in a security where it believes the security is
undervalued and there is no need for change or where it believes the security is undervalued but that the management team in
place at the underlying company is doing an appropriate job to reduce the undervaluation. More often, Clarke will seek active
involvement in the governance and/or management of the company in which it invests. In these cases, Clarke will have
acquired the security with a view of changes that could be made to improve the underlying company’s performance and
maximize the company’s value. When Clarke believes that an investee company has implemented appropriate changes and/or
the value of the investee company has reached or exceeded its intrinsic value, Clarke may sell its investment. Clarke
generally invests in industries that have hard assets, including manufacturing, industrial, energy and real estate businesses.
We view our investments as businesses. The rules applicable to the drafting of this MD&A may require us to call these
investments “reportable segments”, combine multiple investments together in a single “reportable segment” and discuss these
investments as if we operated them ourselves. While we are sometimes involved in the management of our investee
companies, we rather speak of them as owners and not as operators. From time to time, we will exclude certain details for
competitive reasons.
1
KEY EVENTS – 2014
During 2014 the Company grew book value per share by $4.25 (51%) and returned $0.40 per share to shareholders in the
form of dividends paid. In addition, the Company spent $12.5 million during the year repurchasing 1,243,846 of our common
shares (“Common Shares”), all at a discount to book value. Our book value per share at the end of the year was $12.57 while
our share price was $10.00.
The following were certain key events during 2014:
The Company completed the sale of its truckload, less-than-truckload and freight logistics businesses (the “Freight
Transport Business”) to TransForce Inc. (“TransForce”) for total consideration of $100.5 million. We realized a gain on
sale of $66.4 million.
The Company completed the sale of Gestion Jerico Inc. (“Jerico”), the business that made up its Commercial Tanks &
Home Heating segment, to TerraVest Capital Inc. (“Terravest”). We received $24.9 million for our 75% equity interest
in Jerico in the form of a 6.50% promissory note with a three year term. We realized a gain on sale of $4.7 million.
During the year, Terravest repaid $5.9 million of the promissory note leaving an outstanding principal balance of $19.0
million.
The Company redeemed the remaining $30.2 million principal amount of its 2018 convertible debentures (the
“Debentures”) using cash on hand. The Company no longer has any debentures outstanding.
Clarke concluded its proxy contest with Sherritt International Corporation (“Sherritt”). Clarke commenced a proxy
contest against Sherritt in early 2014 with the goal of replacing three directors with nominees of Clarke and promoting
various changes in Sherritt’s governance, operations and capital allocation. Although we were not successful in
obtaining representation on Sherritt’s board, our investment in Sherritt was a financial success. We sold our shares
following the results of the proxy contest and realized a gain of $17.5 million and an IRR of 68% on our investment in
Sherritt.
Holloway Lodging Corporation (“Holloway”) acquired all of the outstanding shares of Royal Host Inc. (“Royal Host”).
As a shareholder of Royal Host, Clarke received cash of $6.1 million and 610,977 Holloway shares on closing of the
acquisition. Following the completion of this transaction, Clarke acquired an additional 6,263,839 shares of Holloway
and at year-end owned approximately 35% of Holloway’s outstanding shares.
The Company sold its investment in Supremex Inc. (“Supremex”) for gross proceeds of $38.0 million. Our profit since
holding this investment (including distributions and dividends received) was $5.6 million
KEY EVENTS – SUBSEQUENT TO 2014 YEAR END
On January 27, 2015, the Company completed a substantial issuer bid (“SIB”) by purchasing 665,330 Common Shares at a
purchase price of $9.50 per Common Share.
On February 3, 2015, the Company completed the sale of the MV Shamrock, a container ship included in its Transportation
segment, for net proceeds of US$4.6 million (Cdn. $5.7 million).
On February 4, 2015, the Company purchased an additional 1,000,000 shares of Holloway for $5.25 per share.
On February 10, 2015, the Company received a distribution from one of its private investment funds in the amount of US$0.9
million (Cdn. $1.1 million).
On February 23, 2015, the Company’s Board of Directors announced the first quarter dividend of $0.10 per Common Share
payable on April 10, 2015 to shareholders of record at the end of business on March 31, 2015.
2
OUTLOOK
Throughout 2013 and 2014 Clarke sold a number of investments with a view to realizing the value that exists in the
Company’s assets. Two of the investments we sold in the last 24 months were Bonnett’s Energy Corp. and Highkelly
Drilling Inc. Both of these businesses were leaders in their respective fields and had conservative capital structures. These
sales proved timely as we realized attractive profits and reduced our exposure to the oil and gas industry prior to the recent
downturn. Given the recent declines in oil and gas prices and the negative impact expected on related service businesses, we
are seeking new investments in the oil and gas service industry.
As a result of our various investment sales, Clarke has eliminated substantially all of its debt and built a significant cash
balance. At year-end, Clarke had $76.1 million of cash on hand (net of all debt) representing 39% of our market
capitalization. We continue to seek new investments that can deliver attractive returns in coming years. We are beginning to
see opportunities in the oil and gas industry as valuations have come down in response to the decline and uncertainty in
global oil prices. Investment opportunities outside of the oil and gas industry have been more limited in our view due to
generally high valuations. We will remain disciplined in deploying our capital as that capital retains option value while it is
in our hands.
In addition to seeking new investments, we intend to continue working with our two major investee companies to maximize
their business values. We believe there is significant opportunity for each of Terravest and Holloway to continue acquiring
complementary businesses and hotels, respectively, at accretive prices. Each of these companies remains undervalued in our
view.
Finally, we continue to view our Common Shares as undervalued. As long as this situation exists, we will continue to
repurchase our Common Shares as it is the equivalent of buying a dollar for a fraction of that amount. We repurchased
1,243,846 Common Shares under our normal course issuer bid (“NCIB”) in 2014 and 665,330 shares under our SIB in early
2015, all at a discount to our book value per share.
3
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Highlights of the consolidated financial statements for the last three completed fiscal years are as follows:
(in millions, except per share amounts)
Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
Dividend income
Revenue and other income*
Income (loss) from continuing operations
Income from discontinued operations attributable to
equity holders of the Company**
Net income (loss) attributable to equity holders of the
Company
Comprehensive income attributable to equity holders
of the Company
Basic earnings per share (“EPS”)
Income (loss) from continuing operations
Income from discontinued operations
Net income (loss)
Diluted EPS
Year ended
December 31, 2014
$
29.3
6.6
19.8
43.2
Year ended
December 31, 2013
$
38.8
5.9
8.2
37.2
Year ended
December 31, 2012
$
(7.5)
3.1
9.6
(16.6)
59.4
102.6
99.5
2.23
3.06
5.29
15.5
52.7
58.9
2.24
0.93
3.17
15.6
(1.0)
2.4
(0.98)
0.93
(0.05)
Income (loss) from continuing operations
Income from discontinued operations
Net income (loss)
Total assets
Long-term financial liabilities
Cash dividends declared per share
Book value per share
(0.98)
0.93
(0.05)
229.9
***19.9
0.12
5.15
*Revenue and other income includes pension recovery/expense, interest income, gains on sale of fixed assets, foreign
exchange gains/losses, gains on convertible debenture redemptions and repurchases and revenue from the Transportation
segment.
**Non-IFRS measure determined by deducting non-controlling interest from income from discontinued operations. Income
from discontinued operations includes the results and the gain on sale of the Freight Transport Business and Jerico.
***Not included in long-term financial liabilities for the year ended December 31, 2012 is $62.3 million principal amount of
Debentures that was included in current liabilities.
1.85
2.45
4.30
256.5
2.4
0.50
12.57
1.61
0.62
2.23
298.4
66.1
0.34
8.32
Net income attributable to equity holders of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $102.6 million
compared with net income of $52.7 million in 2013. This represents the highest net income generated in a twelve month
annual period in the Company’s history. During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company had unrealized gains on its
investments of $46.6 million compared to unrealized gains of $25.9 million in 2013. The Company had realized losses on its
investments of $17.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 compared with realized gains of $12.9 million in 2013.
Further discussion on these unrealized and realized gains/losses is below in the “Investment Segment” section of this
MD&A.
During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company completed the sale of its Freight Transport Business and Jerico
resulting in gains on sale of subsidiaries of $71.1 million, included in income from discontinued operations.
On January 1, 2014, upon the sale of the Freight Transport Business, all active members of the Pension Plan for the
Employees of Clarke Inc. and of the Clarke Group Pension Plan who were employees of that business stopped accruing
service and salary increases for future periods which resulted in a curtailment gain of $3.3 million and is included in the
consolidated statements of earnings for the year ended December 31, 2014.
The Company’s book value per share as at December 31, 2014 was $12.57, an increase of $4.25, or 51%, per share since
December 31, 2013. This increase was due to the gain recognized on the sale of the Freight Transport Business, the
significant increases in the market value of the Company’s marketable securities and the net gains on the sale of investments
in the year. Although the Company’s book value has increased significantly in recent years and in large part consists of cash
and marketable securities, the Company’s shares continue to trade at a meaningful discount to their book value.
4
The following graph represents the book value per share of Clarke, compared to public market price per share for the thirteen
years ended December 31, 2014.
* Information for the years ended 2002 and 2003 is as at March of the following year. In 2004 the Company’s year end was
changed to December.
SEGMENT REPORTING
Investment segment
The Investment segment represents the Company’s marketable securities portfolio as well as long-term private investment
funds and debt investments. Results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2014, compared to the year ended
December 31, 2013 in the Company’s Investment segment are as follows:
Year ended
December 31, 2014
$
Year ended
December 31, 2013
$
Revenue and other income:
Investment and other income
Intercompany management revenue*
Expenses
Net income before income taxes
Net income before intercompany revenue and income taxes
*Intercompany management revenue is eliminated upon consolidation.
39.6
0.8
40.4
1.2
39.2
38.4
40.6
1.8
42.4
0.6
41.8
40.0
5
2.62 2.68 3.53 4.79 5.626.952.744.075.415.315.158.3212.572.34 3.03 3.71 5.00 6.557.523.273.354.124.004.707.9910.00$0.00$1.00$2.00$3.00$4.00$5.00$6.00$7.00$8.00$9.00$10.00$11.00$12.00$13.00Year Ended Book Value Per ShareBook Value Per ShareClarke Share Price
The Investment segment performed well in the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 due to the increase in market prices
of the publicly-traded securities we own and gains earned upon the sale of various investments. During the year ended
December 31, 2014, we sold our shares of Sherritt and our remaining shares of Vitran Corporation Inc. (“Vitran”) upon the
completion of TransForce’s acquisition of Vitran. These two sales generated realized gains on investments of $18.5 million.
The Company also had realized losses in 2014 on the sale of our Royal Host and Supremex shares amounting to $35.9
million. While we sold our shares of these two companies at a premium to their market price in recent years and have
collected distributions/dividends on these investments over the years, the sale price was substantially below the Company’s
acquisition cost in 2007 and 2008 and therefore was a disappointment for Clarke.
The breakdown of the change in the Company’s marketable securities portfolio is as follows:
Marketable securities – beginning of year
Purchases
Proceeds on sale
Realized and unrealized gains on marketable securities
Marketable securities – end of year
Year ended
December 31, 2014
$
129.4
44.3
(113.1)
28.7
89.3
The Company received dividends of $6.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 compared to $5.9 million in 2013.
This increase is mainly due to an increase in dividends paid by Supremex and Terravest.
The Company’s marketable securities portfolio included the following investments:
December 31, 2014
Market
Price
$
Market
value
$’000
Shares or
face value
Energy Securities Portfolio
N/A
N/A
2,647
December 31, 2013
Market
Price
$
Market
value
$’000
Shares or
face value
N/A
N/A
10,860
%
2.9
Holloway
6,874,815
6.00
41,249
46.2
―
―
―
11,604,000
0.875
10,154
11.4
11,347,000
0.898
10,185
%
8.4
―
7.9
Holloway 6.25% Convertible
Debentures (DB) *†
Holloway 7.50% Convertible
Debentures (DB.A) *
Terravest
Supremex
Sherritt
Royal Host
Vitran
6,232,000
0.970
6,045
6.8
6,232,000
0.910
5,671
4.4
5,000,000
5.85
29,250
32.7
4,021,008
4.53
18,215
14.1
―
―
―
―
―
―
―
―
―
―
―
―
―
―
―
―
13,094,200
2.07
27,105
20.9
12,420,000
3.72
46,202
35.7
6,109,768
418,837
1.35
6.87
8,248
2,877
6.4
2.2
Carrying value of marketable
securities
89,345
100.0
129,363
100.0
*These convertible debentures were in the name of Royal Host as at December 31, 2013. Following Holloway’s acquisition of Royal Host
Holloway formally assumed the debentures.
† Effective October 31, 2014, Holloway combined its two series of 6.25% convertible debentures into a single series of convertible
debentures. These have been combined in the prior year for comparative purposes.
6
Summary of investee performance
Energy Basket: Following the precipitous decline in oil prices in the fourth quarter, we started to acquire select securities of
companies engaged in the oil and gas business. There are many marginal operators in the oil and gas industry that will not (or
at least ought not to) survive the present downturn; these companies may have acquired marginal properties, paid too high a
price for mediocre properties, operated with too high a cost structure or borrowed too heavily. We believe there may be
opportunities to acquire these companies at very depressed prices and assist in their restructuring. There are also several
fundamentally good companies with solid balance sheets and business models that are being valued at distressed prices even
though they are not distressed; investing in these companies is compelling.
Our present intention is to acquire both debt and equity securities of companies engaged in the oil and gas industry that we
believe are attractively valued and offer the potential for significant capital appreciation in the future. Many of these
investments will be passive and we do not plan to disclose these investments unless they become material on an individual
basis to Clarke.
Holloway: Following its acquisition of Royal Host in July 2014, Holloway’s share price increased significantly before
declining along with oil prices towards the end of 2014. We believe the share price decline is unjustified and that Holloway is
significantly undervalued at both its year-end price of $6.00 and its recent trading price of $5.84. Holloway’s acquisition of
Royal Host was timely as it diversified the company’s cash flow out of oil and gas markets and into Ontario and the
Maritimes which should benefit from reduced energy prices and the weaker Canadian dollar. On both a cap rate and asset
basis, Holloway is the cheapest publicly-traded hotel company in Canada yet it has a much stronger balance sheet and much
better operating margins than its peers.
What we like about Holloway is its constant focus on maximizing free cash flow and shareholder value. For instance, to date
in 2015, Holloway announced the sale of two properties at cap rates below 3.0% and the acquisition of another property at a
cap rate in excess of 11.0%; these transactions are immediately accretive to shareholders on a cash flow basis.
In our third quarter report, we commented on the flawed dividend-focused business model that many publicly-traded hotel
companies have adopted. These comments proved prescient as early 2015 witnessed one Canadian hotel company reduce its
dividend by 44% with a corresponding share price decline. We see no such thing occurring with Holloway which currently
has a low payout ratio and even has capacity to meaningfully increase its dividend should it wish to do so.
Terravest: During 2014 Terravest completed the acquisitions of Jerico, a manufacturer of tanks and vessels, and NWP
Industries, a manufacturer of oil and gas processing equipment. In our view, each of these acquisitions was compelling and
well-executed. In the case of Jerico, Terravest purchased a stable business that has no correlation with the oil and gas market.
In the case of NWP Industries, Terravest acquired a company that complemented its existing RJV Gas Services business and
offered significant synergies.
Terravest’s most recent quarter was our first look at Terravest’s results with the inclusion of both newly acquired
subsidiaries. The results were impressive and highlight the impact of the new subsidiaries as well as the integration efforts of
management. Jerico’s contribution was especially strong resulting from increased demand in their residential and propane
businesses. These results help reinforce our view that management’s disciplined approach to acquisitions is creating value.
The drastic decline in oil prices has caused many oil and gas producers and service companies to slash their capital budgets
and reduce or eliminate their dividends. We find it fascinating just how many business models were built on the assumption
of ever increasing oil prices. Warren Buffet once said “…you only find out who’s swimming naked when the tide goes out.”
He was referring to insurance policy risk, but it applies equally well to the situation the oil industry is currently experiencing.
We feel Terravest is in a much stronger position than many of its peers due to its strong balance sheet, reasonable payout
ratio and its timely diversification into the tanks and vessels business. While Terravest’s oil and gas focused subsidiaries may
experience cyclical declines in activity levels, the company is well-positioned to execute on its value maximization strategy
and take advantage of opportunities that result from the current industry environment.
Supremex: During the fourth quarter, Clarke sold its investment in Supremex, receiving gross proceeds of $38.0 million.
While the company continues to transition its revenues from envelopes to packaging products, we are uncertain as to (i) the
pace of the decline of the company’s core envelope business, and (ii) how quickly the company’s new packaging business
can grow to replace any envelope declines. Ultimately, we believe that we can deploy our capital more profitably in other
investments.
7
Transportation segment
The Transportation segment consists of the Company’s ferry and international shipping operations. Previously, this segment
also included the Freight Transport Business which was sold on January 1, 2014.
Results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2014 compared to the year ended December 31, 2013 in the
Company’s Transportation segment are as follows:
Revenue
Expenses
Adjusted EBITDA*
Impairment of fixed assets
Depreciation and amortization
Interest expense
Net income (loss) before income taxes
Year ended
December 31, 2014
$
Year ended
December 31, 2013
$
7.6
6.2
1.4
1.2
0.8
0.2
(0.8)
7.8
6.0
1.8
―
1.0
0.2
0.6
* Non-IFRS measure. See definitions of non-IFRS measures on page 17.
Revenue and Adjusted EBITDA generated by the ferry and international shipping operations in 2014 was fairly consistent
with that of 2013. In late 2014, the Company entered into an agreement to sell the MV Shamrock, the vessel used in its
international shipping operations. Subsequent to the end of 2014, we closed the sale of this vessel and received net proceeds
from the sale of US$4.6 million (Cdn. $5.7 million). As a result of the sale, we impaired the value of the assets used in the
Company’s international shipping operations by $1.2 million which is included on the consolidated statements of earnings
for the year ended December 31, 2014. The Company acquired the MV Shamrock at a tax lien auction in 2004 in the belief
that (i) the vessel’s replacement cost was substantially higher than the Company’s purchase price, and (ii) the day rates for
the vessel were attractive and were likely to generate an attractive cash flow yield. Following the financial crisis, day rates
for the vessel were halved and have never fully recovered. While the vessel’s replacement cost remains higher than the price
the Company paid for the vessel, day rates have remained weak and the vessel’s cash flow contribution to the Company is
minimal. We believe that selling the vessel and redeploying the funds generated from its sale to other investments is the best
course of action.
Other segment
The Other segment consists of owned real estate, our IT services business, our treasury and executive functions, our pension
plans and the interest payable on our Debentures (which were fully redeemed in 2014).
During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company sold a property in Kitchener, Ontario for net proceeds of $2.1
million, resulting in a gain on sale of $1.6 million. Also during the year ended December 31, 2014, one of Clarke’s joint
venture companies sold real estate that was retained from a prior business. This real estate was sold for $2.5 million of which
Clarke’s share was $1.3 million. This transaction is disclosed for accounting purposes as ‘equity in earnings of joint
ventures’. This resulted in equity in earnings in the amount of $0.5 million and concludes all operations in this entity.
8
Assets by segment
The table below shows a breakdown by segment of the Company’s assets of continuing operations as at December 31, 2014,
2013 and 2012:
Investment
Transportation*
Commercial Tanks & Home Heating**
Other
December 31, 2014
December 31, 2013
December 31, 2012
$’000
133.8
8.2
―
114.5
%
52.2
3.2
―
44.6
$’000
137.2
8.3
60.5
47.7
%
54.1
3.3
23.8
18.8
$’000
70.2
53.0
45.7
61.0
%
30.5
23.1
19.9
26.5
Total
256.5
100.0
253.7
100.0
229.9
100.0
*The December 31, 2012 asset balance in the Transportation segment includes the Freight Transport Business that was sold during the
first quarter of 2014 and is included in assets of discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2013.
**The company sold its Commercial Tanks & Home Heating segment during 2014.
RESULTS OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
On January 1, 2014, Clarke completed the sale of the Freight Transport Business. The Company received cash proceeds of
$100.5 million on the sale which included an estimated net working capital adjustment. As a result of this transaction,
included in income from discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2014, is a gain on sale of subsidiary of
$66.4 million. The Company recorded the net assets of the Freight Transport Business as assets and liabilities of discontinued
operations for the year ended December 31, 2013 and the results of this business have been reclassified as net income from
discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2013.
On February 15, 2014, the Company completed the sale of Jerico. Jerico formed the Company’s Commercial Tanks & Home
Heating segment. The Company received $24.9 million for its 75% equity interest in Jerico in the form of a 6.50%
promissory note with a three year term. Prior to the end of 2014 Terravest repaid $5.9 million of the promissory note leaving
an outstanding principal balance of $19.0 million. We expect the remainder of the promissory note to be repaid prior to its
maturity date. As a result of this transaction, included in income from discontinued operations for the year ended December
31, 2014, is a gain on sale of subsidiary of $4.7 million. The results of Jerico have been reclassified as net income from
discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2014 and 2013.
As a result of the above, the Company had net income from discontinued operations of $59.4 million for the year ended
December 31, 2014 compared to $17.0 million in 2013.
NORMAL COURSE ISSUER BIDS (“NCIB”)
The directors and management are of the opinion that, from time to time, the prices of the Company’s publicly-traded
securities may not reflect their intrinsic value and, therefore, purchasing such securities may be a worthwhile use of funds
and in the best interests of the Company and its security holders.
In May 2013, Clarke announced that it had received approval from the TSX to conduct a NCIB to purchase for cancellation
up to 834,115 Common Shares, representing 5% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares as at that date. The NCIB
commenced on May 22, 2013 and was terminated on May 21, 2014. During 2014 Clarke repurchased 217,900 Common
Shares under this NCIB.
In May 2014, Clarke announced that it had received approval from the TSX to conduct a NCIB to purchase for cancellation
up to 1,025,946 Common Shares, representing 5% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares as at that date. The NCIB
commenced on May 27, 2014 and Clarke repurchased all 1,025,946 Common Shares permitted by the fourth quarter.
In November 2014, Clarke announced that its Board of Directors had authorized a NCIB to purchase for cancellation through
the facilities of the OTC Markets up to 974,649 of its outstanding Common Shares, representing approximately 5% of the
currently outstanding Common Shares of Clarke. The NCIB commenced on November 27, 2014 and will terminate on
November 26, 2015 unless terminated earlier by the Company.
9
In May 2013, Clarke announced that it had received approval from the TSX to conduct a NCIB to purchase for cancellation
up to $6.1 million principal amount of the 2018 Debentures, representing 10% of the public float of the 2018 Debentures as
at that date. The NCIB commenced on May 22, 2013 and was terminated on May 21, 2014. During 2014 Clarke repurchased
$0.5 million Debentures under this NCIB.
OUTSTANDING SHARE DATA
At February 23, 2015, the Company had:
An unlimited number of Common Shares authorized and 18,827,647 Common Shares outstanding; and
An unlimited number of First and Second Preferred Shares authorized and none outstanding.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
At December 31, 2014, the Company’s net cash position of continuing operations (a non-IFRS measure representing cash
and cash equivalents less short-term indebtedness) was $79.1 million compared to a net short-term debt position of $42.3
million at December 31, 2013. This increase in cash is a result of the proceeds received on the sale of the Freight Transport
Business during the first quarter of 2014 and net marketable security sales throughout 2014. At February 23, 2014, the
Company’s net cash position was approximately $77.0 million.
Cash flow from operating activities
Cash provided by operating activities was $6.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, compared to $0.6 million
provided by operations for the year ended December 31, 2013. This increase is mainly due to higher dividends and interest
received on our investments. Additionally, the Company has reduced its debt to a minimal amount which has reduced interest
costs from $4.7 million in 2013 to $1.1 million in 2014.
At December 31, 2014, working capital excluding marketable securities was $79.0 million, compared to negative $26.4
million at December 31, 2013. The significant improvement in net working capital is due to the sale of the Freight Transport
Business and Jerico. With the sale of such businesses, the Company’s working capital needs are minimal and the Company
has the ability to fund any working capital needs through its cash on hand and its existing credit facilities.
Cash flow from investing activities
Net cash of $61.0 million was provided by investing activities during the year ended December 31, 2014, compared to $10.5
million used in the year ended December 31, 2013. This was primarily due to proceeds received on net sales of investments
(sales less purchases) in the amount of $68.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, compared to net purchases of
investments (purchases less sales) $15.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. This was partially offset by net
advances of notes receivable in the amount of $10.1 million in the year ended December 31, 2014.
Cash flow from financing activities
Net cash used in financing activities was $87.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, compared to $8.8 million
provided in the year ended December 31, 2013. Net cash used in financing activities during the year was mainly related to
the repayment of short term indebtedness in the amount of $35.9 million, the redemption and repurchase of Debentures in the
amount of $30.7 million, the repurchase of shares in the amount of $12.5 million and the payment of dividends in the amount
of $7.6 million. Net cash provided by financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2013 was mainly attributable to
the proceeds of short term indebtedness of $16.2 million partially offset by the payment of dividends in the amount of $5.6
million.
Available capital under credit facilities
The Company has access to credit facilities where certain of the Company’s marketable securities are pledged as collateral.
At December 31, 2014, $20.0 million was available under these facilities (subject to the amount of eligible securities pledged
as collateral) and nil was drawn on these facilities. Declines in the market value of pledged securities may have an adverse
effect on the amount of credit available under these facilities. Funds drawn on these facilities can be transferred by the
Company to business units within its corporate structure, provided the Company is in compliance with all covenant
requirements under its borrowing facilities; this enables us to allocate capital to its best use.
10
Cash flow from discontinued operations
Net cash provided by operating activities of discontinued operations was $0.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2014
compared to $20.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. Cash flow provided by operating activities for the current
year mainly relates to the cash flow generated from Jerico for the period prior to the sale transaction. Net cash provided by
investing activities of discontinued operations was $99.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, compared to $7.9
million used for the year ended December 31, 2013. The amount provided by investing activities in the current year was
mainly due to the cash proceeds received on the sale of the Freight Transport Business. Net cash used in financing activities
of discontinued operations was $2.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 compared to $11.7 million used in the
year ended December 31, 2013. In the current year, this was primarily due to the reduction of debt in Jerico for the period
prior to the sale transaction.
Contractual obligations and capital resource requirements
The effects of commitments, events, risks and uncertainties on future performance are discussed in the sections relating to
Contractual Obligations and Capital Resource Requirements.
The table below summarizes Clarke’s maximum contractual obligations by due date:
Contractual obligations
Long-term debt
Operating leases
Total
$
3.0
0.7
3.7
Less than
1 year
$
0.6
0.2
0.8
1 – 3 years
$
1.3
0.4
1.7
3 - 5 years
$
1.1
0.1
1.2
After 5 years
$
―
―
―
Clarke expects to be able to fund all working capital requirements, contractual obligations, and capital expenditures from a
combination of operating cash flows, existing credit facilities, and its current cash and cash equivalents position.
Clarke has several investment margin facilities with Canadian brokerage companies. The facilities permit draws of a portion
of the market value of purchases of qualifying marketable securities, depending upon the type of instrument, with certain
market value restrictions. At December 31, 2014, Clarke had drawn nil under these facilities (2013 – $35.9 million) and had a
total cash availability of $20.0 million (2013 – $39.2 million) (see note 15 to the consolidated financial statements for the
year ended December 31, 2014).
Unrecorded commitments
At December 31, 2014, Clarke continued to be a party to the following unrecorded commitments:
Operating leases, as discussed under “Contractual Obligations and Capital Resource Requirements” above, in the annual
MD&A for the year ended December 31, 2014, and in note 17 to the consolidated financial statements for the year ended
December 31, 2014.
Other commitments, as discussed in note 17 to the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31,
2014.
11
FOURTH QUARTER
A comparison of results for the three months ended December 31, 2014, compared to three months ended December 31,
2013, is as follows:
Three months ended
December 31, 2014
$
Three months ended
December 31, 2013
$
Revenue
Unrealized gains on investments
Realized gains (losses) on investments
Dividend income
Pension recovery (expense)
Provision of services
Other income
Expenses
General and administrative expenses
Cost of services provided
Depreciation and amortization
Interest expense
Income (loss) before equity in earnings of associates and joint ventures
and income taxes
Equity in earnings of associates and joint ventures
Income (loss) before income taxes
Recovery of income taxes
Income (loss) from continuing operations
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax
Equity in earnings from discontinued operations of joint ventures, net of
tax
Net income (loss)
Comprehensive income (loss)
Net income (loss) attributable to equity holders of the Company
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to equity holders of the
Company
4.6
(14.0)
1.0
0.1
1.7
1.4
(5.2)
1.3
1.5
0.1
0.1
(8.2)
―
(8.2)
(1.8)
(6.4)
(0.3)
0.1
(6.6)
(6.8)
(6.6)
(6.8)
5.6
8.7
1.9
(2.7)
1.6
0.1
15.2
1.2
1.3
0.2
1.2
11.3
0.3
11.6
(3.8)
15.4
6.3
―
21.7
24.1
20.9
23.3
Fourth quarter revenue decreased as a result of a decrease in the value of the Company’s portfolio of publicly-traded
securities and realized losses incurred on the sale of investments. Net realized and unrealized losses on investments for the
fourth quarter of 2014 were $9.4 million compared to gains of $14.3 million for the same period in 2013. The Company had
a loss from continuing operations of $6.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2014 compared to income of $15.4 in the same
period in 2013. This again was largely driven by the increase in realized losses on investments during the period which is
discussed above under the “Investment segment”. Net income from discontinued operations for the fourth quarter of 2013
consists primarily of the results of the Freight Transport Business sold on January 1, 2014 and Jerico sold on February 15,
2014. Comprehensive loss attributable to equity holders of the Company for the fourth quarter was $6.8 million compared to
comprehensive income of $23.3 million for the same period in 2013.
For the three months ended December 31, 2014, Clarke’s basic loss per share was $0.33, compared to basic EPS of $1.25 for
the same period in 2013.
Net cash provided by operating activities was $1.2 million for the fourth quarter of 2014, compared to net cash used in
operations of $7.4 million in the same period in 2013. Cash flow provided by operations in the fourth quarter of 2014 was
mainly due to dividends and interest received on investments and notes receivable. Cash flow used in operations in the fourth
quarter of 2013 was due to an increase in net working capital driven by the settlement of security purchases in the fourth
quarter that were booked in the third quarter.
12
Net cash provided by investment activities was $40.1 million in the fourth quarter of 2014, compared to net cash provided of
$8.0 million in the same period in 2013. Net sales (sales less purchases) of marketable securities in the fourth quarter of 2014
totalled $33.9 million compared to $8.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2013. The Company also received $5.9 million in
repayments of notes receivable in the fourth quarter of 2014.
Net cash used in financing activities for the fourth quarter of 2014 was $4.9 million compared to net cash provided of $10.6
million for the same period in 2013. During the fourth quarter of 2014 the Company continued to use available cash to
repurchase its shares and pay a quarterly dividend.
There was nil cash provided by operating activities of discontinued operations for the fourth quarter of 2014 while $10.9
million was provided for the same period in 2013. The majority of cash flow provided by operating activities relates to the
cash flow generated from the Company’s former Freight Transport Business and Jerico during the period. There was nil cash
provided by investing activities of discontinued operations for the fourth quarter of 2014 while $0.2 million was used for the
same period in 2013. This was due to the net purchases of fixed assets (purchases less proceeds on disposition) for the fourth
quarter of 2013. There was nil cash provided by financing activities of discontinued operations for the fourth quarter of 2014
while $21.3 million was used in 2013. This was primarily due to the repayment of credit facilities in the Freight Transport
Business prior to sale.
SUMMARY OF QUARTERLY RESULTS
Key financial information for the current and preceding seven quarters is as follows:
Three months ended
Revenue and other income
Income (loss) from continuing operations
Income (loss) from discontinued operations *
Net income (loss)
Other comprehensive income (loss)
Comprehensive income (loss)
Basic EPS from continuing operations (in dollars)
Diluted EPS from continuing operations (in dollars)
Basic EPS (in dollars)
Diluted EPS (in dollars)
Mar.
2013
$
6.1
0.8
2.5
3.3
2.3
5.6
0.08
0.08
0.19
0.16
June
2013
$
7.6
3.6
3.6
7.2
―
7.2
0.24
0.19
0.43
0.31
Sept.
2013
$
24.1
17.4
4.5
21.9
1.6
23.5
1.12
0.78
1.30
0.89
Dec.
2013
$
15.2
15.4
6.3
21.7
2.4
24.1
1.06
0.73
1.25
0.87
Mar.
2014
$
16.0
13.3
59.7
73.0
(3.8)
69.2
0.73
0.57
4.01
3.03
June
2014
$
24.4
19.9
―
19.9
(0.2)
19.7
1.00
0.94
1.00
0.94
Sept.
2014
$
20.5
16.4
―
16.4
1.1
17.5
0.83
0.83
0.83
0.83
Dec.
2014
$
(5.2)
(6.4)
(0.3)
(6.6)
(0.2)
(6.8)
(0.32)
(0.32)
(0.33)
(0.33)
* Income from discontinued operations mainly consists of the results from the Freight Transport Business and Jerico and the gain on sale
of both subsidiaries in the first quarter of 2014.
As seen in the table above, our results can fluctuate significantly from quarter to quarter, mainly as a result of certain
accounting standards the Company follows. Under IFRS, realized and unrealized gains and losses on our publicly-traded
securities are recorded in “revenue” on our consolidated statements of earnings. The Company does not believe that quarterly
fluctuations in the stock prices of our investee companies necessarily reflect a change in the value of the underlying
businesses in which we are invested. The value of the underlying businesses are often more stable than their stock prices
reflect and often worth more than the public markets give them credit for (as evidenced by some of our recent sales). Clarke
views its investments on a longer-term basis as opposed to on a quarter-to-quarter basis. These fluctuations, however, often
provide us with an opportunity to invest more capital in particular investments that we like or vice-versa.
13
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
The Company was party to the following related party transactions during the year ended December 31, 2014:
The Company is a party to rental agreements with a company owned by the Executive Chairman and his immediate
family member. Included in ‘General and administrative expenses’ is rental and other property expenses of $0.2 million
(2013 – $0.2 million) under this agreement.
The Company provides administrative and asset management services to two pension plans it sponsors. Included in
‘Provision of services’ is $0.3 million (2013 – $0.3 million) for services provided to the pension plans during the year.
The Company provides information technology services to related companies. Included in ‘Income from discontinued
operations’ is nil (2013 – $0.3 million) for services provided during the year.
The Company has a promissory note receivable from Terravest as a result of the sale of Jerico. The note has a three
year term. Included in ‘Other income’ for the year ended December 31, 2014 is interest income of $1.4 million (2013 –
nil) and included in ‘Income from discontinued operations’ for the year ended December 31, 2014 is a gain on sale of
subsidiary of $4.7 million (2013 – nil).
The Company has a credit facility to lend $6.0 million to Holloway maturing on or before December 31, 2015. The
facility bears interest at 7.00%. As at December 31, 2014, $3.0 million was drawn on the facility. Included in ‘Other
income’ for the year ended December 31, 2014 is interest income of $0.2 million (2013 – $0.3 million). The facility was
repaid in full subsequent to December 31, 2014.
During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company entered into a term loan agreement with Holloway. The
agreement consists of a $17.0 million term loan that bears interest at 6.50%. The term loan does not require any
principal payments until the maturity on March 31, 2016, or March 31, 2017 if the borrower requests an extension. The
borrower may prepay all or part of the term loan at any time following the six month anniversary of the first loan draw.
During the year ended December 31, 2014, the borrower made its first loan draw in the amount of $16.0 million on the
term loan and is included in ‘Notes receivable’ on the consolidated statements of financial position. Interest on this
note is included in ‘Other income’ for the year ended December 31, 2014 in the amount of $0.5 million (2013 – nil).
During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company purchased 6,263,839 shares of Holloway through the facilities
of the Toronto Stock Exchange from the Company’s Executive Chairman and a company owned by an immediate
family member of the Company’s Executive Chairman. The purchase of the shares was made for investment purposes
and the Company paid $4.50 per share.
Key management consists of the directors and officers of the Company. The compensation accrued is as follows:
Year ended December 31, 2014
Salary and fees
Bonus
Pension value
Total
Board of directors
$
0.1
―
0.9
1.0
Officers
$
0.4
0.7
―
1.1
Total
$
0.5
0.7
0.9
2.1
14
FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
In the normal course of operations, the Company uses the following financial and other instruments:
To generate investment returns, including investment income and capital appreciation, the Company will invest in
numerous types of securities, including shares, trust units, debentures, loans, private investment funds and cash. These
instruments have interest rate, market, credit and foreign exchange risk associated with them.
To manage foreign exchange, interest rate and general market risk, the Company will use where it sees fit, futures and
forward exchange contracts. These instruments may have interest, market, credit and foreign exchange risk associated
with them.
As an investment company, Clarke has a significant number of financial instruments. Notes 1, 5, 6, 8, 11, 14, 15, 16, 25 and
26 to the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2014 and the Company’s AIF, provide further
information on classifications in the financial statements, and risks, pertaining to the use of financial instruments by the
Company.
SIGNIFICANT EQUITY INVESTMENTS
In accordance with National Instrument 51-102 of the Canadian Securities Administrators, the Company has determined that
Holloway and Terravest are significant equity investees. Accordingly, we are required to disclose the following summary
financial information. The summarized financial information provided is for the most recent annual period and the
comparative annual period. For those reporting entities that have not yet released their annual consolidated financial
statements for the current year, the prior year financial information is provided.
Holloway
Holloway’s core businesses are hotel ownership and hotel franchising. Holloway owns 35 hotels comprising 3,967 rooms and
franchises over 90 locations in Canada under the Travelodge® and Thriftlodge® banners. As of December 31, 2014, Clarke
owned 35.5% of the outstanding shares of Holloway, $11.6 million face value series B convertible debentures and $6.2
million face value series C convertible debentures.
Selected Financial Information (audited)
Total assets
Total liabilities
Shareholders' equity
Total revenue
Net income
Terravest
Year ended
December 31, 2013
$
199.4
114.0
85.4
60.0
4.5
Year ended
December 31, 2012
$
204.6
119.1
85.5
58.4
19.7
Terravest is engaged in (i) the manufacturing of residential and commercial tanks and pressure vessels, (ii) the manufacturing
of wellhead processing equipment for the oil and natural gas industry, and (iii) well servicing for the oil and natural gas
industry in Southwestern Saskatchewan. As of December 31, 2014, Clarke owned 27.6% of the outstanding shares of
Terravest.
Selected Financial Information (audited)
Total assets
Total liabilities
Shareholders' equity
Total revenue
Net income
*Terravest changed its fiscal year-end to September 30th in 2013.
15
Year ended
September 30, 2014
$
171.4
91.3
80.1
131.6
8.9
Year ended
September 30, 2013
$
71.9
27.0
44.9
46.9
3.9
DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND INTERNAL CONTROLS OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
The implementation of Canadian Securities Administrators National Instrument 52-109 - Certification of Disclosure in
Issuers’ Annual and Interim Filings represents a continuous improvement process, which has prompted the Company to
formalize existing processes and control measures and to introduce new ones. The objective of this instrument is to improve
the quality, reliability, and transparency of information that is filed or submitted under securities regulation.
In accordance with this instrument, the Company has filed certificates signed by the President & Chief Executive Officer and
the Chief Financial Officer that, among other things, report on the design and effectiveness of disclosure controls and
procedures and the design and effectiveness of internal controls over financial reporting.
Management has designed disclosure controls and procedures to provide reasonable assurance that material information
relating to the Company is made known to the President & Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer,
particularly during the period in which annual filings are being prepared. These two certifying officers evaluated the
effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures as of December 31, 2014, and based on their evaluation,
concluded that these controls and procedures were adequate and effective.
Management has also designed internal controls over financial reporting to provide reasonable assurance regarding the
reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with IFRS.
The President & Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer have supervised Company’s management in the
evaluation of the design and effectiveness of the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting as of the end of the
period covered by the annual filings and believe the design and effectiveness to be adequate to provide such reasonable
assurance using the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in
Internal Control – Integrated Framework.
Finally, there have been no changes in the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures or internal controls over financial
reporting during the year ended December 31, 2014 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially
affect, the effectiveness of the internal controls over financial reporting.
ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS
The Company’s businesses are exposed to the following environmental risks in conducting regular operations: (i)
contamination of owned or leased property; and (ii) contamination of the environment relating to spills or leaks originating
from the vessels in its Transportation segment.
The Company’s businesses regularly review their operations and facilities to identify any potential environmental
contamination or liability. Limited internal reviews, which may include third party environmental assessments, have been
conducted at all the Company’s wholly-owned real estate within the past three years. These limited reviews identified no
material remediation issues and potential risks and there have been no material events arising subsequently that would
indicate additional obligations.
The Company believes it and its businesses comply in all material respects with all relevant environmental laws and
regulations. The Company is not aware of any material uninsured pending or proceeding actions against it or any of its
businesses relating to environmental issues.
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING USE OF NON-IFRS ACCOUNTING MEASURES
This MD&A makes reference to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization and impairment charges
(“Adjusted EBITDA”) and book value per share. Clarke uses Adjusted EBITDA as a measure of the performance of certain
of its investee companies and operating subsidiaries as it excludes depreciation, impairments and interest charges, which are
a function of the company’s specific capital structure, and also excludes entity specific tax expense. Clarke uses book value
per share as a measure of the performance of the Company as a whole. Book value per share is measured by dividing
shareholders’ equity attributable to equity holders of the Company at the date of the statement of financial position by the
number of Common Shares outstanding at that date. Clarke’s method of determining these amounts may differ from other
companies’ methods and, accordingly, these amounts may not be comparable to measures used by other companies. These
amounts are not performance measures as defined under IFRS and should not be considered either in isolation of, or as a
substitute for, net earnings prepared in accordance with IFRS.
16
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This MD&A may contain or refer to certain forward-looking statements relating, but not limited, to the Company’s
expectations, intentions, plans and beliefs with respect to the Company. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements
can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “does not expect”, “is expected”, “budget”, “estimates”,
“forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, “believes”, or equivalents or variations of such words and
phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results, “may”, “could”, “would”, “should”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur
or be achieved. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, those with respect to the future or expected
performance of the Company’s investee companies, the future price and value of securities held by the Company, changes in
these securities holdings, changes to the Company’s hedging practices, currency fluctuations and requirements for additional
capital. Forward-looking statements rely on certain underlying assumptions that, if not realized, can result in such forward-
looking statements not being achieved. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and
other factors that could cause the actual results of the Company to be materially different from the historical results or from
any future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, among
others, the Company’s investment strategy, legal and regulatory risks, general market risk, potential lack of diversification in
the Company’s investments, interest rates, foreign currency fluctuations, the sale of Company investments, the fact that
dividends from investee companies are not guaranteed, reliance on key executives, commodity market risk, risks associated
with investment in derivative instruments and other factors. With respect to the Company’s Transportation segment, such
risks and uncertainties include, among others, weather conditions, safety, claims and insurance, labour relations, and other
factors.
Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actions, events or results not to be as
estimated or intended, there can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate as actual results
and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Other than as required by applicable
Canadian securities laws, the Company does not update or revise any such forward-looking statements to reflect events or
circumstances after the date of this document or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. Accordingly, readers
should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES & THE APPLICATION OF NEW AND REVISED
IFRS
Please refer to notes 1, 2 and 3 to our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2014 for a detailed
discussion regarding our significant accounting policies, application of new and revised IFRS and application of significant
accounting judgments, estimates and assumptions. Such changes are reflected in the assumptions when they occur.
Allowance for credit losses
Receivables are assessed on an individual basis. When there is no longer a reasonable expectation that a loan will be repaid,
the loan is considered impaired and a specific impairment provision is recognized. The Company assesses the financial
resources, future performance expectations and net realizable value of the collateral for each loan in assessing an expectation
of repayment.
Impairment of non-financial assets
Impairment exists when the carrying value of an asset or cash generating unit exceeds its recoverable amount, which is the
higher of its fair value less costs to sell and its value in use. The fair value less costs to sell calculation is based on available
data from binding sales transactions in an arm’s length transaction of similar assets or observable market prices less
incremental costs for disposing of the asset. Value in use is calculated using estimated future cash flows which are
discounted to their present value using a weighted average cost of capital.
Taxes
Uncertainties exist with respect to the interpretation of complex tax regulations, changes in tax laws, and the amount and
timing of future taxable income. Given the wide range of international business relationships and the long-term nature and
complexity of existing contractual agreements, differences arising between the actual results and the assumptions made, or
future changes to such assumptions, could necessitate future adjustments to taxable income and expense already recorded.
The Company establishes provisions, based on reasonable estimates, for possible consequences of audits by the tax
17
authorities of the respective countries in which it operates. The amount of such provisions is based on various factors, such
as experience of previous tax audits and differing interpretations of tax regulations by the taxable entity and the responsible
tax authority. Such differences of interpretation may arise on a wide variety of issues depending on the conditions prevailing
in the respective company's domicile. As the Company assesses the probability for litigation and subsequent cash outflow
with respect to taxes as remote, no contingent liability has been recognized.
Fair value of financial instruments
Where the fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities disclosed in the notes to the consolidated financial statements
cannot be derived from active markets, their fair value is determined using valuation techniques including the discounted
cash flow model. The inputs to these models are taken from observable markets where possible, but where this is not
feasible, a degree of judgement is required in establishing fair values. The judgements include considerations of inputs such
as liquidity risk, credit risk and volatility. Changes in assumptions about these factors could affect the disclosed fair value of
financial instruments.
Pension benefits
The cost of defined benefit pension plans and the present value of the pension obligation are determined using actuarial
valuations. An actuarial valuation involves making various assumptions which may differ from actual developments in the
future. These include the determination of the discount rate, future salary increases, mortality rates and future pension
increases. Due to the complexity of the valuation, the underlying assumptions and its long term nature, a defined benefit
obligation is highly sensitive to changes in these assumptions. All assumptions are reviewed at each reporting date. In
determining the appropriate discount rate, management considers the interest rates of corporate bonds in the respective
currency with at least AA rating, with extrapolated maturities corresponding to the expected duration of the defined benefit
obligation. The underlying bonds are further reviewed for quality, and those having excessive credit spreads are removed
from the population of bonds on which the discount rate is based, on the basis that they do not represent high quality bonds.
The mortality rate is based on publicly available mortality tables. Future salary increases and pension increases are based on
expected future inflation rates.
STANDARDS ISSUED BUT NOT YET EFFECTIVE
Standards issued but not yet effective up to the date of issuance of the Company’s consolidated financial statements are listed
below. This listing is of standards and interpretations issued, which the Company reasonably expects to be applicable at a
future date. The Company intends to adopt those standards when they become effective.
IFRS 9 Financial Instruments: Classification and Measurement
IFRS 9 will replace IAS 39 Financial instruments: recognition and measurement. The standard is effective for annual
periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018. IFRS 9 includes requirements for recognition and measurement, impairment,
derecognition and general hedge accounting. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the new standard.
IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers
IFRS 15 replaces the previous guidance on revenue recognition and provides a framework to determine when to recognize
revenue and at what amount. The new standard is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2017. The
Company is currently evaluating the impact of the new standard.
IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements
IAS 1 amendments outline disclosure initiatives relating to materiality, ordering of the notes, subtotals, accounting policies
and disaggregation with an aim of clarifying IAS 1 to address perceived impediments to preparers exercising their judgment
in presenting their financial reports. The amendments are effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2016.
The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the new standard.
IAS 19 Employee Benefits
IAS 19 amendment provides additional guidance on the type of bonds used in estimating the discount rate for post-
employment benefits. The amendments are effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2016. The
Company is currently evaluating the impact of the new standard.
18
19
Consolidated Financial Statements
Clarke Inc.
December 31, 2014 and 2013
20
Deloitte LLP
Purdy's Wharf Tower II
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Suite 1500
Halifax NS B3J 3R7
Canada
Tel: 902-422-8541
Fax: 902-423-5820
www.deloitte.ca
Independent Auditor’s Report
To the Shareholders of Clarke Inc.
We have audited the accompanying consolidated financial statements of Clarke Inc., which comprise the consolidated
statements of financial position as at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 and the consolidated statements of
earnings, consolidated statements of comprehensive income, consolidated statements of shareholders’ equity and
consolidated statements of cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, and a summary of
significant accounting policies and other explanatory information.
Management's Responsibility for the Consolidated Financial Statements
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these consolidated financial statements in accordance
with International Financial Reporting Standards, and for such internal control as management determines is necessary to
enable the preparation of consolidated financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or
error.
Auditor's Responsibility
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our
audits in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards require that we comply with
ethical requirements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial
statements are free from material misstatement.
An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated
financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor's judgment, including the assessment of the risks of
material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk
assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity's preparation and fair presentation of the consolidated
financial statements 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 control. An audit also includes evaluating the
appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by management, as well as
evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements.
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained in our audits is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit
opinion.
Opinion
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Clarke
Inc. as at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 and its financial performance and its cash flows for the years ended
December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards.
Chartered Accountants
Halifax, Nova Scotia
February 23, 2015
21
Clarke Inc.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION
(in thousands of Canadian dollars)
As at December 31
2014
$
2013
$
ASSETS (note 14)
Current
Cash and cash equivalents
Marketable securities (note 5)
Receivables (note 6)
Income taxes receivable
Prepaid expenses
Inventories (note 7)
Total current assets
Notes receivable (notes 8 and 14)
Accrued pension benefit asset (note 9)
Fixed assets and investment properties (note 10)
Investments in joint ventures and other long-term investments (note 11)
Deferred income tax assets (note 12)
Goodwill
Other assets (note 13)
Total assets of continuing operations
Assets of discontinued operations (note 14)
Total assets
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (note 14)
Current
Short-term indebtedness (note 15)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Dividends payable (note 18)
Income taxes payable
Current portion of other long-term debt (note 16)
Share-based payment liability
Total current liabilities
Other long-term debt (note 16)
Deferred income tax liabilities (note 12)
Convertible debentures (note 16)
Total liabilities of continuing operations
Liabilities of discontinued operations (note 14)
Total liabilities
Commitments and contingencies (note 17)
Shareholders’ equity
Share capital (note 18)
Retained earnings
Accumulated other comprehensive income (note 19)
Equity portion of convertible debentures (note 16)
Share-based payments
Total shareholders’ equity attributable to equity holders of the Company
Non-controlling interest
Total shareholders’ equity
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements
On behalf of the Board:
/s/ George Armoyan
Director
/s/ Blair Cook
Director
22
79,061
89,345
6,704
51
290
―
175,451
35,000
29,823
9,941
3,761
2,496
―
―
256,472
―
256,472
―
4,504
1,949
32
644
―
7,129
2,363
1,882
―
11,374
―
11,374
63,189
175,574
6,335
―
―
245,098
―
245,098
256,472
1,568
129,363
13,414
406
844
15,111
160,706
3,000
29,659
25,957
4,312
14,953
9,722
5,384
253,693
44,694
298,387
43,878
9,847
―
280
3,522
254
57,781
13,348
3,314
52,775
127,218
16,516
143,734
42,701
91,783
9,440
2,356
580
146,860
7,793
154,653
298,387
Clarke Inc.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
Years ended December 31
Revenue
Unrealized gains on investments
Realized gains (losses) on investments
Dividend income
Pension recovery (expense) (note 9)
Provision of services
Other income (note 20)
Expenses
General and administrative expenses
Cost of services provided
Impairment of fixed assets (note 10)
Depreciation and amortization
Interest expense (note 21)
Income before equity in earnings of associates and joint ventures and income taxes
Equity in earnings of associates and joint ventures (note 11)
Income before income taxes
Provision for (recovery of) income taxes (note 12)
Income from continuing operations
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax (note 14)
Equity in earnings from discontinued operations of joint ventures, net of tax
Net income
Attributable to:
Equity holders of the Company
Non-controlling interest
Basic earnings per share attributable to equity holders of the Company:
(in dollars) (note 18)
Income from continuing operations
Income from discontinued operations
Net income
Diluted earnings per share attributable to equity holders of the Company:
(in dollars) (note 18)
Income from continuing operations
Income from discontinued operations
Net income
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements
23
2014
$
46,628
(17,364)
6,604
3,752
8,514
7,607
55,741
3,921
5,946
1,243
956
1,134
13,200
42,541
462
43,003
(247)
43,250
59,404
47
102,701
102,646
55
102,701
2.23
3.06
5.29
1.85
2.45
4.30
2013
$
25,853
12,949
5,913
(3,678)
8,248
3,659
52,944
3,528
5,389
―
1,209
4,675
14,801
38,143
400
38,543
1,305
37,238
16,971
―
54,209
52,737
1,472
54,209
2.24
0.93
3.17
1.61
0.62
2.23
Clarke Inc.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(in thousands of Canadian dollars)
Years ended December 31
Net income
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
Items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss
Remeasurement gains (losses) and effect of limit on asset ceiling on defined benefit
pension plans (note 9)
Total items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss
Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss
Unrealized gains on translation of net investment in foreign operations
Total items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss
Other comprehensive income (loss)
Comprehensive income
Attributable to:
Equity holders of the Company
Non-controlling interest
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements
2014
$
2013
$
102,701
54,209
(3,588)
(3,588)
483
483
(3,105)
99,596
99,541
55
99,596
5,714
5,714
480
480
6,194
60,403
58,931
1,472
60,403
24
Clarke Inc.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands of Canadian dollars)
Years ended December 31
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Income from continuing operations
Adjustments for items not involving cash (note 23)
Net change in non-cash working capital balances (note 23)
Net cash provided by operating activities
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds on disposition of marketable securities and investments in associates
Purchase of marketable securities
Advances of notes receivable
Repayments of notes receivable
Proceeds on disposition of fixed assets
Purchase of fixed assets
Net purchases (return of capital) of other long-term investments
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Net proceeds (repayment) of short-term indebtedness
Redemption and repurchase of convertible debt for cancellation (note 16)
Repurchase of shares for cancellation (note 18)
Dividends paid (note 18)
Repayment of long-term debt
Debt issue costs of convertible debentures
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
Net cash used in continuing operations
Net cash provided by operating activities of discontinued operations
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities of discontinued operations
Net cash used in financing activities of discontinued operations
Net change in cash during the year
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year
Represented by:
Cash
Cash included in assets of discontinued operations (note 14)
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements
2014
$
2013
$
43,250
(33,959)
9,291
(2,562)
6,729
113,081
(44,325)
(16,000)
5,915
2,117
(150)
358
60,996
(35,906)
(30,718)
(12,502)
(7,640)
(644)
―
(87,410)
(19,685)
155
99,278
(2,676)
77,072
1,989
79,061
37,238
(35,738)
1,500
(883)
617
58,519
(73,498)
(1,000)
3,000
3,418
(722)
(173)
(10,456)
16,232
―
(844)
(5,647)
(644)
(332)
8,765
(1,074)
20,620
(7,939)
(11,710)
(103)
2,092
1,989
79,061
―
1,568
421
25
Clarke Inc.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(in thousands of Canadian dollars)
Years ended December 31
2014
$
2013
$
34,249
8,785
(333)
42,701
45,204
52,737
(5,647)
42,701
24,434
(3,946)
63,189
91,783
102,646
(9,589)
(8,556)
(511)
(710)
175,574
―
91,783
9,440
(3,105)
6,335
3,246
6,194
9,440
2,356
2,662
(2,843)
(444)
(571)
1,058
―
―
138
2,356
580
―
(580)
―
245,098
7,793
55
(125)
(7,723)
―
―
245,098
526
54
―
580
146,860
5,442
1,472
(250)
―
1,129
7,793
154,653
Share capital
Common shares:
Balance at beginning of year
Common shares issued upon conversion of convertible debt (note 18)
Common shares repurchased for cancellation (note 18)
Balance at end of year
Retained earnings
Balance at beginning of year
Net income attributable to equity holders of the Company
Dividends declared (note 18)
Purchase price in excess of the historical book value of common shares repurchased for
cancellation (note 18)
Purchase price in excess of average book value of convertible debentures redeemed or
repurchased for cancellation (note 16)
Balance at end of year
Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax (note 19)
Balance at beginning of year
Other comprehensive income (loss)
Balance at end of year
Equity portion of convertible debentures
Balance at beginning of year
Reduction of share conversion option upon the redemption, repurchase or conversion of
convertible debentures (note 16)
Purchase price in excess of average book value of convertible debentures redeemed or
repurchased for cancellation (note 16)
Deferred income tax adjustment on convertible debentures (note 12)
Balance at end of year
Share-based payments
Balance at beginning of year
Share-based payment expense
Sale of subsidiary with share-based payments
Balance at end of year
Total shareholders’ equity attributable to equity holders of the Company
Non-controlling interest
Balance at beginning of year
Net income attributable to non-controlling interest
Dividend paid by subsidiary to non-controlling interest
Sale of subsidiary with non-controlling interest
Non-controlling interest acquired in business combination
Balance at end of year
Total shareholders’ equity
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements
26
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Nature of operations
Clarke Inc. (the “Company” or “Clarke”) was incorporated on December 9, 1997 pursuant to the Canada Business
Corporations Act. The head office of the Company is located at 6009 Quinpool Road, Halifax, Nova Scotia. The Company
is an investment holding company with investments in a diversified group of businesses, operating primarily in Canada. The
Company continuously evaluates the acquisition, retention and disposition of its investments. Changes in the mix of
investments should be expected. These consolidated financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on
February 23, 2015.
Basis of presentation and statement of compliance
These consolidated financial statements of the Company and its subsidiaries were prepared in accordance with International
Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”).
These consolidated financial statements were prepared on a going concern basis under the historical cost convention, as
modified by the revaluation of any financial instruments recorded at fair value. Assets of discontinued operations are carried
at the lower of cost and fair value less costs to sell.
The preparation of financial statements in accordance with IFRS requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates. It
also requires management to exercise judgement in applying the Company’s accounting policies. The areas involving a
higher degree of judgement or complexity, or areas where assumptions and estimates are significant to the consolidated
financial statements are disclosed in note 3.
Principles of consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries. The significant subsidiaries
of the Company are CKI Holdings Partnership, Quinpool Holdings Partnership, La Traverse Rivière-du-Loup – St-Siméon
Limitée and Clarke Shipping Inc.
All significant intercompany transactions have been eliminated on consolidation. All subsidiaries have the same reporting
year end as the Company, and all follow the same accounting policies.
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include deposits in banks, certificates of deposit and short-term investments with original
maturities of three months or less.
Marketable securities, investments in associates and joint ventures
The Company has elected to use the exemption in IAS 28 – Investments in associates for venture capital companies. Under
this exemption, the Company may designate all investments managed in the same way at fair value through profit or loss.
The Company has designated all publicly-traded securities at fair value through profit or loss, regardless of whether or not
significant influence exists. In these cases, all realized and unrealized gains and losses are recorded in the consolidated
statements of earnings. All private investments subject to significant influence and joint ventures are accounted for using the
equity method.
27
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D)
The Company has several investments in associates and joint ventures that are accounted for using the equity method. An
associate is an entity in which the Company has significant influence and a joint venture is an entity in which the Company
and another entity have joint control. Under the equity method, the investment is carried in the consolidated statements of
financial position at cost plus post-acquisition changes in the Company’s share of net assets of the associate or joint venture.
Goodwill relating to the associate or joint venture is included in the carrying amount of the investment and is neither
amortized nor individually tested for impairment. The share of earnings or losses of the associates and joint ventures is
shown on the face of the consolidated statements of earnings.
The financial statements of the associates and joint ventures are prepared for the same reporting period as the Company.
Where necessary, adjustments are made to bring accounting policies in line with those of the Company.
After application of the equity method, the Company determines whether it is necessary to recognize an additional
impairment loss on the Company’s investment in the associates and joint ventures. The Company determines at each
reporting date whether there is objective evidence that the investments in the associates and joint ventures are impaired. If
this is the case, the Company calculates the amount of impairment as the difference between the recoverable amount of the
associate or joint venture and its carrying value and recognizes the amount in the ‘equity in earnings of associates and joint
ventures’ in the consolidated statements of earnings.
Upon loss of significant influence over an investment, the Company measures and recognizes any retaining investment at its
fair value. Any difference between the carrying value upon loss of significant influence and the fair value of the retained
investment and proceeds from disposal is recognized in the consolidated statements of earnings.
Inventories
Finished goods and raw materials are valued at the lower of cost and net realizable value. The cost of certain inventories is
based on weighted average cost, and includes expenditures directly attributable to their acquisition and delivery. The cost of
other inventories is determined using a first-in, first-out (“FIFO”) method. Inventory costs include raw materials, direct and
indirect labour and plant overheads. For manufactured inventories, including work in progress, cost also includes an
appropriate share of the production overhead based on normal capacity. Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in
the ordinary course of business, less estimated costs of completion and the estimated costs necessary to make the sale. The
Company does not have any inventory balances as at December 31, 2014.
Transaction costs
Transaction costs related to investments are expensed as incurred. Transaction costs for all other financial instruments are
capitalized and for instruments with maturity dates are then amortized over the expected life of the instrument using the
effective interest method.
Intangible assets and development costs
Intangible assets are recorded at cost and are amortized over their estimated useful lives where the life is deemed to be finite.
Intangible assets with finite lives include supply agreements and distribution networks, and are amortized on a straight-line
basis over 5 years.
28
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D)
Intangible assets with indefinite lives are trademarks of a subsidiary and are tested for impairment annually either
individually or at the cash-generating unit level. The Company’s intangible assets with indefinite lives are not amortized.
When the carrying amount of a cash-generating unit exceeds its fair value, any impairment of intangibles is measured by
comparing the carrying value of the intangible with its implied fair value. Fair value of the cash-generating unit is measured
using the recoverable amount, based on valuation multiples in like transactions or discounted cash flow. The useful life of an
intangible asset with an indefinite life is reviewed annually to determine whether indefinite life assessment continues to be
supportable. If not, the change in the useful life assessment from indefinite to finite is accounted for on a prospective basis.
Intangible assets acquired separately are measured on initial recognition at cost. The cost of intangible assets acquired in a
business combination is its fair value as at the date of acquisition. Following initial recognition, intangible assets are carried
at cost less any accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses, if any. Internally generated intangible assets,
excluding capitalized development costs, are not capitalized and the expenditure is reflected in the consolidated statements of
earnings in the year in which the expenditure is incurred. Development costs of future products prior to their introduction are
capitalized and amortized over the expected life of the product when it is brought into production.
The useful lives of intangible assets are assessed annually as either finite or indefinite. Intangible assets with finite lives are
amortized over the useful economic life and assessed for impairment whenever there is an indication that the intangible asset
may be impaired. The amortization period and the amortization method for an intangible asset with a finite useful life are
reviewed at least at the end of each reporting period. Changes in the expected useful life or the expected pattern of
consumption of future economic benefits embodied in the asset is accounted for by changing the amortization period or
method, as appropriate, and are treated as changes in accounting estimates. The amortization expense on intangible assets
with finite lives is recognized in the consolidated statements of earnings.
Gains or losses arising from derecognition of an intangible asset are measured as the difference between the net disposal
proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset and are recognized in the consolidated statements of earnings when the asset is
derecognized.
The Company does not have any intangible assets or development costs as at December 31, 2014.
Business combinations and goodwill
Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method. The cost of an acquisition is measured as the
aggregate of the consideration transferred, measured at acquisition date fair value and the amount of any non-controlling
interest in the acquiree. For each business combination, the Company measures the non-controlling interest at the
proportionate share of the acquiree’s identifiable net assets. Acquisition costs incurred are expensed and included in general
and administrative expenses.
When the Company acquires a business, it assesses the financial assets and liabilities assumed for appropriate classification
and designation in accordance with the contractual terms, economic circumstances and pertinent conditions as at the
acquisition date. This includes the separation of embedded derivatives in host contracts by the acquiree.
If the business combination is achieved in stages, the acquisition date fair value of the Company’s previously held equity
interest in the acquiree is remeasured to fair value at the acquisition date through profit or loss.
Goodwill is initially measured at cost being the excess of the aggregate of the consideration transferred and the amount
recognized for non-controlling interest over the net identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed. If this consideration
is lower than the fair value of the net assets of the acquiree, the difference is recognized in profit or loss.
29
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D)
After initial recognition, goodwill is measured at cost less any accumulated impairment losses. For the purpose of
impairment testing, goodwill acquired in a business combination is, from the acquisition date, allocated to each of the
Company’s cash-generating units that are expected to benefit from the combination, irrespective of whether assets or
liabilities of the acquiree are assigned to those units.
Where goodwill forms part of a cash-generating unit and part of the operation within that unit is disposed of, the goodwill
associated with the operation disposed of is included in the carrying amount of the operation when determining the gain or
loss on disposal of the operation. Goodwill disposed of in this circumstance is measured based on the relative fair values of
the operation disposed of and the portion of the cash-generating unit retained.
The Company does not have any goodwill as at December 31, 2014.
Convertible debentures
Convertible debentures are classified according to their liability and equity elements using the residual approach, whereby
the Company estimates the fair value of the liability element and assigns the residual value of the convertible debentures to
the equity element. The liability element is classified as long-term debt (or current portion of long-term debt if due within
one year) and the equity element is classified as a conversion option and recorded in the equity portion of convertible
debentures component of shareholders’ equity. Upon conversion of debentures to common shares, a pro rata portion of the
convertible debenture, conversion option, unamortized discount and debt issue costs, as well as accrued but unpaid interest,
will be transferred to share capital. Upon the repurchase of debentures by the Company, a pro rata portion of the convertible
debenture, conversion option, unamortized discount and debt issue costs, as well as accrued but unpaid interest, will be
deducted from the purchase price and the difference reflected as a gain or loss in the consolidated statements of earnings. If
any convertible debentures mature without being converted, the remaining conversion option balance will remain in
shareholders’ equity. The discount is amortized using the effective interest rate method over the term of the related debt. The
unamortized discount is included in convertible debentures and the amortization of the discount is included in interest
expense. The Company does not have any convertible debentures as at December 31, 2014.
Revenue recognition
Revenue is recognized to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Company and the revenue
can be reliably measured, regardless of when the payment is being made. Revenue is measured at the fair value of the
consideration received or receivable, taking into account contractually defined terms of payment and excluding taxes or duty.
Distributions from investments that are treated as a return of capital for income tax purposes reduce the average cost of the
underlying investment. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. For all financial instruments measured at
amortized cost and interest bearing financial assets classified as available for sale, interest income is recorded using the
effective interest rate method.
Services revenue for the Transportation segment is recognized with the completion of transportation services, which is
generally at the time of delivery.
30
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D)
Foreign currency translation
The Company’s consolidated financial statements are presented in Canadian dollars, which is also the functional currency of
the parent company. Each of the Company’s subsidiaries determines its own functional currency and items included in the
financial statements of each entity are measured using that functional currency.
i) Transactions and balances
Transactions in foreign currencies are initially recorded by the Company’s subsidiaries at their respective functional currency
rates prevailing at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are
retranslated at the functional currency spot rate of exchange ruling at the reporting date. Non-monetary items that are
measured at historical cost in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rates as at the dates of the initial
transactions. Non-monetary items measured at fair value in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rates at the
date when the fair value is determined. All exchange gains and losses are recorded in other income as incurred.
ii) Foreign operations
The assets and liabilities of foreign operations are translated into Canadian dollars at the rate of exchange prevailing at the
reporting date and their statements of earnings are translated at monthly average exchange rates. The exchange differences
arising on the translation, tax charges and credits attributable to exchange differences are recognized in other comprehensive
income. On disposal of a foreign operation, the component of accumulated other comprehensive income relating to that
particular foreign operation is recognized in the consolidated statements of earnings.
Government grants
Government grants are recognized where there is reasonable assurance that the grant will be received and all attached
conditions will be complied with. Where the Company receives non-monetary grants, no amounts are recorded in the
consolidated statements of earnings as the grants are for consumables in the operations of a subsidiary.
Taxes
Current income tax
Current income tax assets and liabilities for the current period are measured at the amount expected to be recovered from or
paid to the taxation authorities. The tax rates and tax laws used to compute the amount are those that are enacted or
substantively enacted, at the reporting date in the countries where the Company operates and generates taxable income.
Current income tax relating to items recognized directly in shareholders’ equity is recognized in shareholders’ equity and not
in the consolidated statements of earnings. Management periodically evaluates positions taken in the tax returns with respect
to situations in which applicable tax regulations are subject to interpretation and establishes provisions where appropriate.
Deferred income tax
Deferred income tax is provided using the liability method on temporary differences at the reporting date between the tax
bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts for financial reporting purposes. Deferred income tax liabilities are
recognized for all taxable temporary differences, except:
31
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D)
Where the deferred income tax liability arises from the initial recognition of goodwill or of an asset or liability in a
transaction that is not a business combination and, at the time of the transaction, affects neither the accounting profit
nor taxable profit or loss.
In respect of taxable temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, associates and interests in
joint ventures, where the timing of the reversal of the temporary differences can be controlled and it is probable that
the temporary differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future.
Deferred income tax assets are recognized for all deductible temporary differences, carry forward of unused tax credits and
unused tax losses, to the extent that it is probable that taxable profit will be available against the deductible temporary
differences, and the carry forward of unused tax credits and unused tax losses can be utilized, except:
Where the deferred income tax asset relating to the deductible temporary difference arises from the initial
recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction that is not a business combination and, at the time of the
transaction, affects neither the accounting profit nor taxable profit or loss.
In respect of deductible temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, associates and interests in
joint ventures, deferred tax assets are recognized only to the extent that it is probable that the temporary differences
will reverse in the foreseeable future and taxable profit will be available against which the temporary differences can
be utilized.
The carrying amount of deferred income tax assets is reviewed at each reporting date and reduced to the extent that it is no
longer probable that sufficient taxable profit will be available to allow all or part of the deferred income tax asset to be
utilized. Unrecognized deferred income tax assets are reassessed at each reporting date and are recognized to the extent that
it has become probable that future taxable profits will allow the deferred income tax asset to be recovered. Deferred income
tax assets and liabilities are measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the year when the asset is realized or the
liability is settled, based on tax rates (and tax laws) that have been enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date.
Deferred income tax relating to items recognized outside profit or loss is recognized outside profit or loss. Deferred income
tax items are recognized in correlation to the underlying transaction either in accumulated other comprehensive income or
directly in shareholders’ equity.
Deferred income tax assets and deferred income tax liabilities are offset, if a legally enforceable right exists to set off current
income tax assets against current income tax liabilities and the deferred income taxes relate to the same taxable entity and the
same taxation authority.
Tax benefits acquired as part of a business combination, but not satisfying the criteria for separate recognition at that date,
would be recognized subsequently if new information about facts and circumstances changed. The adjustment would either
be treated as a reduction to goodwill (as long as it does not exceed goodwill) if it is incurred during the measurement period
or in profit or loss.
Sales tax
Revenues, expenses and assets are recognized net of the amount of sales tax, except:
32
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D)
Where the sales tax incurred on a purchase of assets or services is not recoverable from the taxation authority, in
which case the sales tax is recognized as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or as part of the expense item as
applicable.
Receivables and payables that are stated with the amount of sales tax included. The net amount of sales tax
recoverable from, or payable to, the taxation authority is included as part of receivables or payables in the
consolidated statements of financial position.
Non-current assets held for sale and discontinued operations
Non-current assets and disposal groups classified as held for sale are measured at the lower of their carrying amount and fair
value less costs to sell. Non-current assets and disposal groups are classified as held for sale if their carrying amounts will be
recovered principally through a sale transaction rather than through continuing use. This condition is regarded as met only
when the sale is highly probable and the asset or disposal group is available for immediate sale in its present condition.
Management must be committed to the sale, which should be expected to qualify for recognition as a completed sale within
one year from the date of classification. In the consolidated statements of earnings of the reporting period, and of the
comparable period of the previous year, income and expenses from discontinued operations are reported separately from
income and expenses from continuing operations, down to the level of profit after taxes. The resulting profit or loss (after
taxes) is reported separately in the consolidated statements of earnings. Fixed assets and intangible assets once classified as
held for sale are not depreciated or amortized.
Fixed assets and investment properties
Fixed assets and investment properties are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and/or accumulated impairment
losses, if any. Such cost includes the cost of replacing part of the fixed asset. When significant parts of a fixed asset are
required to be replaced at intervals, the Company recognizes such parts as individual assets with specific useful lives and
depreciation, respectively. All other repair and maintenance costs are recognized in the consolidated statements of earnings
as incurred.
Depreciation is calculated over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:
Fixed assets and investment properties
Buildings
Computer hardware
Furniture and equipment
Container ship
Ferry and vessel dry dock costs
Leasehold improvements
Years
20 to 35
2 to 5, 30%
8, 20%
20
3 to 5
2 to 10
Method
Straight-line
Straight-line/declining balance
Straight-line/declining balance
Straight-line
Straight-line
Straight-line
A fixed asset and any significant part of a fixed asset initially recognized is derecognized upon disposal or when no future
economic benefits are expected from its use or disposal. Any gain or loss arising on derecognition of the asset (calculated as
the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset) is included in the consolidated
statements of earnings when the asset is derecognized. The assets’ residual values, useful lives and methods of depreciation
are reviewed at each financial year end and adjusted prospectively, if appropriate.
33
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D)
Leases
The determination of whether an arrangement is, or contains, a lease is based on the substance of the arrangement at the
inception date, whether fulfilment of the arrangement is dependent on the use of a specific asset or assets or the arrangement
conveys a right to use the asset, even if that right is not explicitly specified in an arrangement.
Company as a lessee
Operating lease payments are recognized as an expense in the consolidated statements of earnings on a straight-line basis
over the lease term.
Company as a lessor
Leases in which the Company does not transfer substantially all the risks and benefits of ownership of the asset are classified
as operating leases. Initial direct costs incurred in negotiating an operating lease are added to the carrying amount of the
leased asset and recognized over the lease term on the same bases as rental income.
Financial instruments — initial recognition and subsequent measurement
i) Financial assets
Initial recognition and measurement
Financial assets within the scope of IAS 39 are classified as financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, loans and
receivables, held-to-maturity investments, or as available-for-sale financial assets, as appropriate. The Company determines
the classification of its financial assets at initial recognition, based on trade date.
All financial assets are recognized initially at fair value plus, in the case of investments not at fair value through profit or
loss, directly attributable transaction costs.
The Company’s financial assets include cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities, receivables, long-term investments
and notes receivable.
Subsequent measurement
The subsequent measurement of financial assets depends on their classification as follows:
Notes receivable
Notes receivable are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active
market. Notes receivable are initially measured at fair value and are subsequently measured at amortized cost using the
effective interest rate method (“EIR”), less impairment. Amortized cost is calculated by taking into account any discount or
premium on acquisition and fees or costs that are an integral part of the EIR. The EIR amortization is included in other
income in the consolidated statements of earnings. Allowances for estimated losses from uncollectible loans are recognized
on the consolidated statements of earnings when it is probable that the counterparty will be unable to pay all amounts due
according to the terms of the loan.
34
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D)
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss include financial assets held for trading and financial assets designated
upon initial recognition at fair value through profit or loss. Financial assets are classified as held for trading if they are
acquired for the purpose of selling or repurchasing in the near term. Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss are
carried in the consolidated statements of financial position at fair value with changes in fair value recognized on the face of
the consolidated statements of earnings.
Debt issue costs
Debt issue costs are amortized using the EIR method, over the term of the related debt, and the amortization expense is
included in interest expense. The unamortized amount of debt issue costs is included in the carrying value of the related
debt.
Impairment of financial assets
The Company assesses at each reporting date whether there is any objective evidence that a financial asset or a group of
financial assets is impaired. A financial asset or a group of financial assets is deemed to be impaired if, and only if, there is
objective evidence of impairment as a result of one or more events that has occurred after the initial recognition of the asset
(an incurred ‘loss event’) and that loss event has an impact on the estimated future cash flows of the financial asset or the
group of financial assets that can be reliably estimated. Evidence of impairment may include indications that the debtors or a
group of debtors is experiencing significant financial difficulty and where observable data indicate that there is a measurable
decrease in the estimated future cash flows.
Financial assets carried at amortized cost
For financial assets carried at amortized cost, the Company first assesses whether objective evidence of impairment exists
individually for financial assets that are individually significant, or collectively for financial assets that are not individually
significant. If the Company determines that no objective evidence of impairment exists for an individually assessed financial
asset, whether significant or not, it includes the asset in a group of financial assets with similar credit risk characteristics and
collectively assesses them for impairment. Assets that are individually assessed for impairment and for which an impairment
loss is, or continues to be, recognized are not included in a collective assessment of impairment.
If there is objective evidence that an impairment loss has been incurred, the amount of the loss is measured as the difference
between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows (excluding future expected credit
losses that have not yet been incurred). The present value of the estimated future cash flows is discounted at the financial
asset’s original effective interest rate. If a loan has a variable interest rate, the discount rate for measuring any impairment
loss is the current effective interest rate.
The carrying amount of the asset is reduced through the use of an allowance account and the amount of the loss is recognized
in the consolidated statements of earnings. Interest income continues to be accrued on the reduced carrying amount and is
accrued using the rate of interest used to discount the future cash flows for the purpose of measuring the impairment loss.
The interest income is recorded as part of other income in the consolidated statements of earnings. Loans together with the
associated allowance are written off when there is no realistic prospect of future recovery and all collateral has been realized
or has been transferred to the Company. If, in a subsequent year, the amount of the estimated impairment loss increases or
decreases because of an event occurring after the impairment was recognized, the previously recognized impairment loss is
increased or reduced by adjusting the allowance account. If a future write-off is later recovered, the recovery is credited to
interest expense in the consolidated statements of earnings.
35
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D)
ii) Financial liabilities
Initial recognition and measurement
Financial liabilities within the scope of IAS 39 are classified as financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss, or
other financial liabilities, as appropriate. The Company determines the classification of its financial liabilities at initial
recognition. All financial liabilities are recognized initially at fair value and in the case of other financial liabilities, plus
directly attributable transaction costs. The Company’s financial liabilities include accounts payable and accrued liabilities,
short-term indebtedness, convertible debentures and other long-term debt.
Subsequent measurement
The measurement of financial liabilities depends on their classification as follows:
Other financial liabilities
After initial recognition, interest bearing loans and borrowings are subsequently measured at amortized cost using the EIR
method. Gains and losses are recognized in the consolidated statements of earnings when the liabilities are derecognized as
well as through the EIR method amortization process. The EIR amortization is included in interest expense in the
consolidated statements of earnings.
Derecognition
A financial liability is derecognized when the obligation under the liability is discharged, cancelled or expires. When an
existing financial liability is replaced by another from the same lender on substantially different terms, or the terms of an
existing liability are substantially modified, such an exchange or modification is treated as a derecognition of the original
liability and the recognition of a new liability, and the difference in the respective carrying amounts is recognized in the
consolidated statements of earnings.
iii) Offsetting of financial instruments
Financial assets and financial liabilities are offset and the net amount reported in the consolidated statements of financial
position if, and only if, there is a currently enforceable legal right to offset the recognized amounts and there is an intention to
settle on a net basis, or to realize the assets and settle the liabilities simultaneously.
iv) Fair value of financial instruments
The fair value of financial instruments that are traded in active markets at each reporting date is determined by reference to
quoted market prices or dealer price quotations (bid price for long positions and ask price for short positions), without any
deduction for transaction costs. For financial instruments not traded in an active market, the fair value is determined using
appropriate valuation techniques. Such techniques may include using recent arm’s length market transactions; reference to
the current fair value of another instrument that is substantially the same; a discounted cash flow analysis or other valuation
models. An analysis of fair values of financial instruments and further details as to how they are measured are provided in
note 26.
36
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D)
Derivative financial instruments
Initial recognition and subsequent measurement
The Company may use derivative financial instruments such as forward currency contracts to hedge its foreign currency
risks. Such derivative financial instruments are initially recognized at fair value on the date on which a derivative contract is
entered into and are subsequently remeasured at fair value. Derivatives are carried as financial assets when the fair value is
positive and as financial liabilities when the fair value is negative. Any gains or losses arising from changes in the fair value
of derivatives are taken directly to the consolidated statements of earnings.
Impairment of non-financial assets
The Company assesses at each reporting date whether there is an indication that an asset may be impaired. If any indication
exists, or when annual impairment testing for an asset is required, the Company estimates the asset’s recoverable amount.
An asset’s recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s or cash-generating unit’s (“CGU”) fair value less costs to sell and
its value in use and is determined for an individual asset, unless the asset does not generate cash inflows that are largely
independent of those from other assets or groups of assets. Where the carrying amount of an asset or CGU exceeds its
recoverable amount, the asset is considered impaired and is written down to its recoverable amount. In assessing value in
use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current
market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. In determining fair value less costs to sell,
recent market transactions are taken into account, if available. If no such transactions can be identified, an appropriate
valuation model is used. These calculations are corroborated by valuation multiples, quoted share prices for publicly-traded
subsidiaries or other available fair value indicators.
The Company bases its impairment calculation on forecast calculations which are prepared separately for each of the
Company’s CGUs to which the individual assets are allocated. Impairment losses of continuing operations, including
impairment on inventories, are recognized in the consolidated statements of earnings.
For assets excluding goodwill and intangibles with indefinite lives, an assessment is made at each reporting date as to
whether there is any indication that previously recognized impairment losses may no longer exist or may have decreased. If
such indication exists, the Company estimates the asset’s or CGU’s recoverable amount. A previously recognized
impairment loss is reversed only if there has been a change in the assumptions used to determine the asset’s recoverable
amount since the last impairment loss was recognized. The reversal is limited so that the carrying amount of the asset does
not exceed its recoverable amount, nor exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined, net of depreciation, had
no impairment loss been recognized for the asset in prior years. Such reversal is recognized in the consolidated statements of
earnings unless the asset is carried at a revalued amount, in which case the reversal is treated as a revaluation increase.
The following criteria are also applied in assessing impairment of specific assets:
Goodwill
Goodwill is tested for impairment annually as at December 31, and when circumstances indicate that the carrying value may
be impaired. Impairment is determined for goodwill by assessing the recoverable amount of each CGU (or group of CGUs)
to which the goodwill relates. Where the recoverable amount of the CGU is less than its carrying amount, an impairment
loss is recognized. Impairment losses relating to goodwill cannot be reversed in future periods.
37
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D)
Intangible assets
Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are tested for impairment annually as at December 31, either individually or at
the CGU level, as appropriate and when circumstances indicate that the carrying value may be impaired.
The Company does not have any goodwill or intangible assets as at December 31, 2014.
Provisions
General
Provisions are recognized when the Company has a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a result of a past event, it is
probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation and a reliable
estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation. Where the Company expects some or all of a provision to be
reimbursed, for example under an insurance contract, the reimbursement is recognized as a separate asset but only when the
reimbursement is virtually certain. The expense relating to any provision is presented in the consolidated statements of
earnings net of any reimbursement.
Warranty provisions
Provisions for warranty-related costs are recognized when the product is sold or service provided. Initial recognition is based
on historical experience. The initial estimate of warranty-related costs is revised annually.
Pensions and other post-employment benefits
The Company has two defined benefit pension plans covering full-time employees who commenced employment before
September 2003. For other employees, the Company has a RRSP matching pension plan. The cost of providing benefits
under the defined benefit plans is determined separately for each plan using the projected unit credit method.
Remeasurement gains and losses and the effect of the limit on the asset ceiling of the defined benefit plans are included in
other comprehensive income. The past service costs, current service costs, net interest on surplus and non-investment
management fees are recognized as an expense in the consolidated statements of earnings.
The defined benefit asset or liability comprises the present value of the defined benefit obligation (using a discount rate based
on high quality corporate bonds, as explained in note 3), less unrecognized past service costs, if any, and less the fair value of
plan assets out of which the obligations are to be settled. Plan assets are assets that are held by a long-term employee benefit
fund. Plan assets are not available to the creditors of the Company, nor can they be paid directly to the Company. Fair value
is based on market price information and in the case of quoted securities it is the published bid price. The value of any
defined benefit asset recognized is restricted to the present value of any economic benefits available in the form of refunds
from the plan or reductions in the future contributions to the plan.
Per share information
Basic earnings per share are calculated based on net income attributable to equity holders of the Company using the weighted
average number of common shares outstanding during the year. Diluted earnings per share are calculated based on the
weighted average number of common shares that would have been outstanding during the year, including adjustments for
stock options outstanding using the treasury stock method and convertible debentures using the “if-converted” method.
38
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D)
Under the treasury stock method: (i) the exercise of options is assumed to be at the beginning of the year, or at the time of
issuance, if later; (ii) the proceeds from the exercise of options are assumed to be used to repurchase common shares at the
average market price during the year, and (iii) the incremental number of shares are included in the denominator of the
diluted earnings per share calculation. Exercise of these options is not assumed to occur for the purposes of computing
diluted earnings per share if the effect would be anti-dilutive.
Under the “if-converted” method: (i) interest expense, net of the income tax effect, applicable to convertible financial
liabilities is added back to the numerator; (ii) the convertible financial liabilities are assumed to be converted at the beginning
of the period, or issue date, if later, and the resulting common shares are included in the denominator, and (iii) conversion is
not assumed to occur for purposes of computing diluted earnings per share if the effect would be anti-dilutive.
2. APPLICATION OF NEW IFRS
The following IFRS have been applied in the current year. There were no effects to the amounts reported in the consolidated
financial statements.
Amendment to IAS 36 Impairment of assets
The Company has applied the amendments to IAS 36 Recoverable Amount Disclosures for Non-Financial Assets for the first
time in the current year. The amendments to IAS 36 remove the requirement to disclose the recoverable amount of a CGU to
which goodwill or other intangible assets with indefinite useful lives had been allocated when there has been no impairment
or reversal of impairment of the related CGU. Furthermore, the amendments introduce additional disclosure requirements
applicable to when the recoverable amount of an asset or a CGU is measured at fair value less costs of disposal. These new
disclosures include the fair value hierarchy, key assumptions and valuation techniques used which are in line with the
disclosure required by IFRS 13 Fair Value Measurements. The application of these amendments has had no material impact
on the disclosures in the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
IFRIC Interpretation 21 Levies
IFRIC 21 addresses the accounting for a liability to pay a levy if that liability is within the scope of IAS 37 Provisions,
contingent liabilities and contingent assets. The Company has adopted this standard effective January 1, 2014. The
Company has assessed this new standard and there has been no significant impact to the consolidated financial statements
from this adoption.
3.
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING JUDGEMENTS, ESTIMATES AND
ASSUMPTIONS
The preparation of the Company’s consolidated financial statements requires management to make judgements, estimates
and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities, and the disclosure of
contingent liabilities, at the end of the reporting period. However, uncertainty about these assumptions and estimates could
result in outcomes that require a material adjustment to the carrying amount of the asset or liability affected in future periods.
39
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
3.
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING JUDGEMENTS, ESTIMATES AND
ASSUMPTIONS (CONT’D)
Judgements
In the process of applying the Company’s accounting policies, management has made the following judgements, which have
the most significant effect on the amounts recognized in the consolidated financial statements:
Marketable securities
The Company has interests in several publicly-traded marketable security investments which include share ownership and
board of director positions. The Company does not own greater than fifty percent of the outstanding shares of these
investments nor does it hold options or have other contractual arrangements other than convertible debentures that would
lead to increased ownership. The Company does not hold a majority position on any of the boards. De facto control exists in
circumstances when an entity owns less than 50% of the voting shares in another entity, but has control for reasons other than
potential voting rights, contract or other statutory means. The Company does not consider de facto control to be present in
any of the marketable security investments and does not consolidate these investments.
Venture capital organization
The Company has elected to use the exemption in IAS 28 – Investments in associates for venture capital organizations. As
the standard provides no guidance on the term ‘venture capital organization’, the Company considered the characteristics of a
venture capital organization in deciding to use the exemption. The Company holds its investments in the short to medium-
term; the points of exit are actively monitored; and the investments are managed without distinguishing between investments
that qualify as associates and those that do not. As such, the Company has concluded that it meets the definition of a venture
capital organization and qualifies for the exemption.
Deferred income tax assets
Deferred income tax assets are recognized for all unused tax losses to the extent that it is probable that taxable profit will be
available against which the losses can be utilized. Significant management judgement is required to determine the amount of
deferred income tax assets that can be recognized, based upon the likely timing and the level of future taxable profits together
with future tax planning strategies.
Estimates and assumptions
The key assumptions concerning the future and other key sources of estimation uncertainty at the reporting date, that have a
significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial
year, are described below. The Company based its estimates and assumptions on parameters available when the consolidated
financial statements were prepared. Existing circumstances and assumptions about future developments however, may
change due to market changes or circumstances arising beyond the control of the Company. Such changes are reflected in
the assumptions when they occur.
Allowance for credit losses
Receivables are assessed on an individual basis. When there is no longer a reasonable expectation that a loan will be repaid,
the loan is considered impaired and a specific impairment provision is recognized. The Company assesses the financial
resources, future performance expectations and net realizable value of the collateral for each loan in assessing an expectation
of repayment.
40
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
3.
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING JUDGEMENTS, ESTIMATES AND
ASSUMPTIONS (CONT’D)
Taxes
Uncertainties exist with respect to the interpretation of complex tax regulations, changes in tax laws, and the amount and
timing of future taxable income. Given the wide range of international business relationships and the long-term nature and
complexity of existing contractual agreements, differences arising between the actual results and the assumptions made, or
future changes to such assumptions, could necessitate future adjustments to taxable income and expense already recorded.
The Company establishes provisions, based on reasonable estimates, for possible consequences of audits by the tax
authorities of the respective countries in which it operates. The amount of such provisions is based on various factors, such
as experience of previous tax audits and differing interpretations of tax regulations by the taxable entity and the responsible
tax authority. Such differences of interpretation may arise on a wide variety of issues depending on the conditions prevailing
in the respective company's domicile. As the Company assesses the probability for litigation and subsequent cash outflow
with respect to taxes as remote, no contingent liability has been recognized.
Impairment of non-financial assets
Impairment exists when the carrying value of an asset or cash generating unit exceeds its recoverable amount, which is the
higher of its fair value less costs to sell and its value in use. The fair value less costs to sell calculation is based on available
data from binding sales transactions in an arm’s length transaction of similar assets or observable market prices less
incremental costs for disposing of the asset. Value in use is calculated using estimated future cash flows which are
discounted to their present value using a weighted average cost of capital.
Fair value of financial instruments
Where the fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities disclosed in the notes to the consolidated financial statements
cannot be derived from active markets, their fair value is determined using valuation techniques including the discounted
cash flow model. The inputs to these models are taken from observable markets where possible, but where this is not
feasible, a degree of judgement is required in establishing fair values. The judgements include considerations of inputs such
as liquidity risk, credit risk and volatility. Changes in assumptions about these factors could affect the disclosed fair value of
financial instruments.
Pension benefits
The cost of defined benefit pension plans and the present value of the pension obligation are determined using actuarial
valuations. An actuarial valuation involves making various assumptions which may differ from actual developments in the
future. These include the determination of the discount rate, future salary increases, mortality rates and future pension
increases. Due to the complexity of the valuation, the underlying assumptions and its long term nature, a defined benefit
obligation is highly sensitive to changes in these assumptions. All assumptions are reviewed at each reporting date. In
determining the appropriate discount rate, management considers the interest rates of corporate bonds in the respective
currency with at least AA rating, with extrapolated maturities corresponding to the expected duration of the defined benefit
obligation. The underlying bonds are further reviewed for quality, and those having excessive credit spreads are removed
from the population of bonds on which the discount rate is based, on the basis that they do not represent high quality bonds.
The mortality rate is based on publicly available mortality tables. Future salary increases and pension increases are based on
expected future inflation rates. Further details about the assumptions used are disclosed in note 9.
41
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
4. STANDARDS ISSUED BUT NOT YET EFFECTIVE
Standards issued but not yet effective up to the date of issuance of the Company’s consolidated financial statements are listed
below. This listing is of standards and interpretations issued, which the Company reasonably expects to be applicable at a
future date. The Company intends to adopt those standards when they become effective.
IFRS 9 Financial Instruments: Classification and Measurement
IFRS 9 will replace IAS 39 Financial instruments: recognition and measurement. The standard is effective for annual
periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018. IFRS 9 includes requirements for recognition and measurement, impairment,
derecognition and general hedge accounting. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the new standard.
IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers
IFRS 15 replaces the previous guidance on revenue recognition and provides a framework to determine when to recognize
revenue and at what amount. The new standard is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2017. The
Company is currently evaluating the impact of the new standard.
IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements
IAS 1 amendments outline disclosure initiatives relating to materiality, ordering of the notes, subtotals, accounting policies
and disaggregation with an aim of clarifying IAS 1 to address perceived impediments to preparers exercising their judgment
in presenting their financial reports. The amendments are effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2016.
The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the new standard.
IAS 19 Employee Benefits
IAS 19 amendment provides additional guidance on the type of bonds used in estimating the discount rate for post-
employment benefits. The amendments are effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2016. The
Company is currently evaluating the impact of the new standard.
5. MARKETABLE SECURITIES
The Company’s marketable securities are classified as follows:
Shares at fair value through profit or loss
Convertible debentures at fair value through profit or loss
2014
$
73,145
16,200
89,345
2013
$
113,508
15,855
129,363
Included in the Company’s marketable securities balance is Holloway Lodging Corporation (“Holloway”) and TerraVest
Capital Inc. (“Terravest”) which are investments in associates designated at fair value through profit or loss. Both
investments are Canadian publicly traded companies and their summarized financial information for the period ending
December 31, 2014 can be obtained in their publicly available information. As at December 31, 2014, the Company had a
35.5% equity interest in Holloway with a fair market value of $41,249 (2013 – nil) and a 27.6% equity interest in Terravest
with a fair market value of $29,250 (2013 – $18,215). In addition, the Company held $17,836 in face value of Holloway’s
convertible debentures with a fair market value of $16,200 as at December 31, 2014 (2013 – $15,855).
42
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
6.
RECEIVABLES
The significant categories of receivables included on the consolidated statements of financial position are as follows:
7.0% note receivable from Holloway, maturing on December 31, 2015*
6.0% note receivable from arm’s length party, maturing July 31, 2015
Accrued investment income
Trade accounts receivable
2014
$
3,000
1,500
1,202
1,002
6,704
2013
$
―
―
1,248
12,166
13,414
* This note had an undrawn balance of $3,000 as at December 31, 2014 and 2013 and was repaid in full before maturity
subsequent to December 31, 2014. This note was included in non-current assets as at December 31, 2013 (note 8).
Accrued investment income is comprised of dividends and interest income.
7.
INVENTORIES
Inventories were included in the Company’s former Commercial Tanks & Home Heating segment which was sold in 2014
(note 14). The significant categories of inventories included on the consolidated statements of financial position are as
follows:
Finished goods
Work in progress
Raw materials
2014
$
―
―
―
―
2013
$
4,459
1,921
8,731
15,111
Included in cost of goods sold in discontinued operations is finished goods inventory sold for the year ended December 31,
2014, of $3,345 (2013 – $37,681).
8.
NOTES RECEIVABLE
The Company’s notes receivables are from marketable securities and are as follows:
6.5% note receivable from Terravest, maturing on February 15, 2017
6.5% note receivable from Holloway, maturing on March 31, 2016
7.0% note receivable from Holloway, maturing on December 31, 2015 *
2014
$
19,000
16,000
―
35,000
2013
$
―
―
3,000
3,000
* This note had an undrawn balance of $3,000 as at December 31, 2014 and 2013 and was repaid in full before maturity
subsequent to December 31, 2014. This note is included in current assets as at December 31, 2013 (note 6).
43
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
9.
EMPLOYEE FUTURE BENEFITS
The Company has two defined benefit plans providing pensions for staff who commenced employment prior to September 1,
2003. For all other staff, the Company provides RRSP matching pension plans.
The Company measures its accrued benefit obligations and the fair value of plan assets for accounting purposes as at
December 31 for each year. The most recent actuarial valuation of the defined benefit pension plans for funding purposes
was as of December 31, 2013.
As of January 1, 2014, upon the sale of the Freight Transport Business (note 14), all active members of the Pension Plan for
the Employees of Clarke Inc. and of the Clarke Group Pension Plan who were employees of that business stopped accruing
service and salary increases for future periods which resulted in a curtailment gain of $3,326 included in the consolidated
statements of earnings for the year ended December 31, 2014.
Total cash payments
Total cash payments for employee future benefits for the year ended December 31, 2014, consisting of cash contributed by
the Company to its RRSP matching pension plans were $110 (2013 – $677).
Defined benefit plan assets
Fair value of plan assets:
Balance, beginning of year
Interest income
Employee contributions
Benefits paid
Non-investment management fees
Remeasurement gains
Balance, end of year
Defined benefit plan obligations
Accrued benefit obligation:
Balance, beginning of year
Current service cost
Past service costs
Employee contributions
Interest cost
Benefits paid
Remeasurement losses (gains)
Balance, end of year
Pension benefits
2014
$
96,224
4,460
25
(5,277)
(427)
3,647
98,652
2013
$
79,219
3,111
138
(3,013)
(369)
17,138
96,224
Pension benefits
2014
$
48,090
458
(3,284)
25
2,014
(5,277)
5,451
47,477
2013
$
50,666
1,141
3,202
138
2,040
(3,013)
(6,084)
48,090
44
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
9.
EMPLOYEE FUTURE BENEFITS (CONT’D)
Reconciliation of the funded status of the benefit plans to the amounts recorded in the consolidated financial statements is:
Fair value of plan assets
Accrued benefit obligation
Funded status of plans – surplus
Cumulative impact of asset ceiling
Accrued pension benefit asset, net of impact of asset ceiling
Pension benefits
2014
$
98,652
47,477
51,175
(21,352)
29,823
2013
$
96,224
48,090
48,134
(18,475)
29,659
Elements of the defined benefit recovery (expense) recognized in the consolidated statements of earnings are as follows:
For the years ended December 31:
Current service cost
Past service cost
Net interest on surplus
Provision for non-investment management fees
Defined benefit recovery (expense) recognized
Pension benefits
2014
$
(458)
3,284
1,353
(427)
3,752
2013
$
(1,141)
(3,202)
1,034
(369)
(3,678)
Elements of the defined benefit recovery (expense) recognized in other comprehensive income are as follows:
For the years ended December 31:
Remeasurement gains (losses)
Change in amount of asset ceiling
Defined benefit recovery (expense) recognized
Significant assumptions
Accrued benefit obligation:
Discount rate
Rate of compensation increase
Benefit costs for the year:
Discount rate
Rate of compensation increase *
Pension benefits
2014
$
(1,804)
(1,784)
(3,588)
2013
$
23,222
(17,508)
5,714
2014
%
4.00
4.00
2013
%
4.80
3.00 – 4.00
4.80
3.00 – 4.00
4.00
4.00
* The rate of compensation increase in 2014 is only applicable to the two remaining active members of the Pension Plan.
45
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
10. FIXED ASSETS AND INVESTMENT PROPERTIES
December 31, 2014
Furniture, equipment and computer hardware
Container ship
Ferry and vessel dry dock costs
Total fixed assets
Investment properties – land
Investment properties – buildings
Total investment properties
Total fixed assets and investment properties
December 31, 2013
Land
Buildings
Furniture, equipment and computer hardware
Container ship
Ferry and vessel dry dock costs
Leasehold improvements
Total fixed assets
Investment properties - land
Investment properties - buildings
Total investment properties
Total fixed assets and investment properties
Cost
$
250
12,824
3,605
16,679
167
5,202
5,369
22,048
Cost
$
936
11,864
15,660
13,642
3,605
1,119
46,826
266
978
1,244
48,070
Accumulated
depreciation
$
Carrying value
$
95
7,277
2,922
10,294
―
1,813
1,813
12,107
155
5,547
683
6,385
167
3,389
3,556
9,941
Accumulated
depreciation
$
Carrying value
$
―
2,194
8,902
6,843
2,679
983
21,601
―
512
512
22,113
936
9,670
6,758
6,799
926
136
25,225
266
466
732
25,957
The Company’s investment properties represent land and buildings previously used in operations that are now held to earn
rental income or for future resale. The fair value of investment properties has been estimated at $4,445 at December 31,
2014 (2013 – $2,736). Depreciation for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $956 (2013 – $1,209). At December 31,
2014, there were no assets under finance leases.
In the fourth quarter of 2014, the Company entered into an agreement to sell the MV Shamrock, a container ship included in
its Transportation segment (notes 22 and 27). This resulted in an impairment of fixed assets in the amount of $1,243
included on the consolidated statements of earnings for the year ended December 31, 2014. The impairment was required to
write the asset down to its fair value based on the anticipated sales proceeds.
46
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
11.
INVESTMENTS IN JOINT VENTURES AND OTHER LONG-TERM
INVESTMENTS
The Company had a 50% interest in SGHI Investments Ltd. (“SGHI”) and used the equity method to account for that
investment. During the year ended December 31, 2014, SGHI sold land and a building for net proceeds of $2,389. The
Company’s portion of the gain realized on sale was $396 and is included in ‘equity in earnings of associates and joint
ventures’ on the consolidated statements of earnings for the year ended December 31, 2014. There are no further operations
within this joint venture.
During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company sold all of its shares in its investments in associates, Midlake Oil &
Gas Limited and Highkelly Drilling Ltd. Proceeds on sale were $1,000 and $12,454, respectively, and gains of $1,000 and
$3,370, respectively, are included in ‘realized gains on investments’ on the consolidated statements of earnings for the year
ended December 31, 2013.
The Company’s investments in joint ventures and other long-term investments consist of equity interests as follows:
Investment funds designated as fair value through profit or loss
Private investments in joint ventures
Private investments in associates
12.
INCOME TAXES
The provision for (recovery of) income taxes for the years ended December 31 consists of:
Consolidated statements of earnings
Current income tax
Current income tax charge
Adjustments in respect of current income tax of previous year
Deferred income tax
Relating to origination and reversal of temporary differences
Relating to the benefit of a previously unrecognized deferred income tax asset
Relating to the change in recoverable amount of a deferred income tax asset
Provision for (recovery of) income taxes reported in the consolidated statements
of earnings
Consolidated statements of shareholders’ equity
Deferred income tax related to items credited to equity:
Reversal of temporary difference on repurchases and conversions of
Debentures
Recovery of income taxes reported in the statements of shareholders’ equity
2014
$
3,745
16
―
3,761
2014
$
146
(130)
5,825
(2)
(6,086)
(247)
2014
$
(1,058)
(1,058)
2013
$
3,575
698
39
4,312
2013
$
174
(15)
8,005
(103)
(6,756)
1,305
2013
$
(138)
(138)
47
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
12.
INCOME TAXES (CONT’D)
The provision for (recovery of) income taxes varies from the expected provision for income taxes at statutory rates for the
following reasons:
Provision for income taxes at statutory rate of 30.22% (2013 – 31.00%)
Increase (decrease) from statutory rate:
Effect of difference in statutory rates of subsidiaries
Non-taxable component of realized and unrealized investment gains
Non-taxable dividend income
Non-deductible expenses
Change in recoverable amount of deferred income tax asset
Amounts recorded directly to equity
Amounts recorded to retained earnings from change in accounting policy
Other
Provision for (recovery of) income taxes at effective rate
2014
$
12,996
(69)
(4,931)
(1,996)
258
(6,086)
(367)
―
(52)
(247)
2013
$
11,948
39
(6,926)
906
708
(6,756)
―
1,814
(428)
1,305
The provision for income taxes from continuing operations for the year ended December 31, 2014, excludes the provision for
income taxes from discontinued operations of $11,990 (2013 – $1,649), which is included in ‘Income from discontinued
operations, net of tax’ in the consolidated statements of earnings (note 14).
Deferred income tax assets (liabilities) represent the temporary differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and
the carrying amount of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are
netted in the consolidated statements of financial position to the extent they relate to the same fiscal entity and taxation
jurisdiction.
The significant components of the Company’s deferred income tax assets and liabilities and deferred income tax expenses
and recoveries are as follows:
Consolidated statements of financial position Consolidated statements of earnings
2013
2013
$
$
2014
$
2014
$
Deferred income tax assets
(liabilities):
Goodwill and intangible
assets
Marketable securities
Fixed assets
Long-term investments
Employee future benefits
Loss carry forwards
Convertible debentures
Other
Deferred income tax assets
Deferred income tax
expense (recovery)
(57)
800
661
(130)
(9,012)
8,336
―
16
614
1,652
1,450
(1,972)
728
(9,194)
19,234
(143)
(116)
11,639
(21)
(132)
(944)
165
(182)
―
915
(64)
674
4,261
1,047
2,664
(525)
(6,857)
(44)
(74)
(263)
1,146
48
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
12.
INCOME TAXES (CONT’D)
Deferred income tax assets are reflected in the consolidated statements of financial position as follows:
Deferred income tax assets
Deferred income tax liabilities
Deferred income tax assets (net)
2014
$
2,496
(1,882)
614
2013
$
14,953
(3,314)
11,639
The ultimate realization of deferred income tax assets is dependent upon taxable profits during the periods in which those
temporary differences become deductible. In concluding that it is probable that the recorded deferred income tax assets will
be realized, management has relied upon existing taxable temporary differences as support for the recorded amounts.
At December 31, 2014, there was no deferred income tax liability recognized for taxable temporary differences related to
undistributed profits of certain of the Company’s subsidiaries as the Company is able to control and determine, whether to,
and the method for distributing those profits and has determined that those taxable temporary differences will not reverse in
the foreseeable future. The taxable temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries for which a deferred
income tax liability has not been recognized aggregate to $116,921 (2013 – $129,918).
Certain deferred income tax assets have not been recognized. They are as follows:
Marketable securities
Non-capital loss carry forwards
Capital loss carry forwards
Total
$
876
409
192
1,477
As at December 31, 2014, the Company had non-capital tax losses carried forward for tax purposes aggregating $29,056 that
are available for the reduction of future years’ taxable income. The losses expire as follows:
2030
2031
2032
2033
2034
Total
$
20,868
6,714
4
151
1,319
29,056
As at December 31, 2014, the Company had capital losses carried forward for tax purposes aggregating $1,237 that are
available for the reduction of capital gains in future years. The losses do not expire.
49
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
13. OTHER ASSETS
Other assets as at December 31, 2013 consisted of intangibles and deferred development costs that were included in the
Company’s former Commercial Tanks & Home Heating segment which was sold in 2014 (note 14).
Intangibles
Deferred development costs
14. DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
2014
$
―
―
―
2013
$
4,694
690
5,384
On January 1, 2014, the Company completed the sale of its truckload, less-than-truckload and freight logistics businesses (the
“Freight Transport Business”) to TransForce Inc. for total cash consideration of $100,471 including an estimated working
capital adjustment. The Freight Transport Business was included in the Company’s former Freight Transportation segment.
Certain other subsidiaries of Clarke engaged in information technology and human resources functions were also included in
the sale. The significant assets and liabilities of the Freight Transport Business were fixed assets, goodwill, long-term debt
and working capital. As a result of this transaction, included in income from discontinued operations for the year ended
December 31, 2014, is a gain on sale of subsidiary of $66,433.
On February 15, 2014, the Company completed the sale of Gestion Jerico Inc. (“Jerico”) to Terravest. Jerico formed the
Company’s Commercial Tanks & Home Heating segment. The Company received $24,915 for its 75% equity interest in
Jerico in the form of a 6.50% promissory note with a three year term. The promissory note is included in ‘Notes receivable’
on the consolidated statements of financial position as at December 31, 2014. The significant assets and liabilities of Jerico
were fixed assets, goodwill and intangibles, long-term debt, inventory and other working capital. As a result of this
transaction, included in income from discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2014, is a gain on sale of
subsidiary of $4,717.
The tables on the following page present the components of the Freight Transport Business and Jerico included in the
consolidated financial statements as discontinued operations.
50
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
14. DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS (CONT’D)
Cash
Receivables
Income taxes receivable
Prepaid expenses
Deferred income tax assets
Fixed assets
Goodwill
Other assets
Total assets of discontinued operations
Short-term indebtedness
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Income taxes payable
Long-term debt
Deferred income tax liabilities
Total liabilities of discontinued operations
Net assets of discontinued operations
*December 31, 2013
$
421
23,266
255
946
334
13,334
6,053
85
44,694
65
14,004
157
1,549
741
16,516
28,178
* The assets and liabilities of discontinued operations as at December 31, 2013 are comprised of the Freight Transport
Business as they were classified as held for sale at that time. Jerico’s net assets are not included in discontinued operations
as at December 31, 2013 as assets and liabilities of disposal groups are not reclassified for prior periods on the consolidated
statements of financial position.
Gain on sale of subsidiaries
Provision of services
Sales of products
Other income (loss)
Cost of services provided
Cost of goods sold
General and administrative expenses
Depreciation and amortization
Interest expense
Income before equity in losses of associates and income taxes
Equity in losses of associates
Income before income taxes
Provision for income taxes *
Income from discontinued operations
2014
$
71,150
―
5,805
(62)
76,893
―
4,001
1,034
372
92
71,394
―
71,394
11,990
59,404
2013
$
―
181,599
58,195
560
240,354
166,808
41,924
7,223
4,493
1,274
18,632
(12)
18,620
1,649
16,971
* Included in ‘Provision for income taxes’ for the year ended December 31, 2014 is a deferred tax expense of $11,935 on the
utilization of loss carry forwards used against the gain on sale of subsidiaries and resulting in a decrease in deferred income
tax assets.
51
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
15. SHORT-TERM INDEBTEDNESS
The Company has a demand revolving loan of $20,000 secured by marketable securities. The interest rate for the demand
revolving loan was 3.75% at December 31, 2014 (2013 – 3.75%). The Company had drawn nil on the demand revolving
loan at December 31, 2014 (2013 – $10,199).
The Company maintains several investment accounts with various brokers. Under one broker arrangement, the Company
had access to an investment margin account for purposes of financing eligible marketable securities. Any Canadian dollar
financing used under this arrangement bears interest at the prime rate of a Canadian chartered bank and is collateralized by
the marketable securities purchased. The interest rate was equal to 3.00% at December 31, 2014 (2013 – 3.00%). Any US
dollar financing used under this arrangement bears interest at the US base rate less 1.00% and is collateralized by the
marketable securities purchased. The interest rate was equal to 2.75% at December 31, 2014 (2013 – 2.75%). The Company
had drawn nil on the Canadian dollar and US dollar facilities, respectively, at December 31, 2014 (2013 – $25,002 and
US$663, respectively).
Subsidiaries of Jerico in the former Commercial Tanks & Home Heating segment had operating facilities to a maximum of
$16,000. At December 31, 2013, the Company had drawn $7,965 and US$7 from these facilities.
16. CONVERTIBLE DEBENTURES & OTHER LONG-TERM DEBT
Term loan, original amount of $4,800, payable in monthly principal instalments of $72
excluding March through May, due September 2019, bearing interest at financial
institution’s floating base rate plus 0.50% (5.50% as at December 31, 2014 and 2013),
secured by fixed charge against ferry, MV Trans-Saint-Laurent, machinery, tools, vehicles,
and intellectual property, with a carrying value of $933.
6.0% convertible unsecured subordinated debentures, due December 31, 2018
Term loans from the former Commercial Tanks & Home Heating segment, payable in
monthly principal instalments totalling $86 at interest rates ranging from 4.00% to 5.00%
as at December 31, 2013.
Promissory notes from the former Commercial Tanks & Home Heating segment, bearing
interest at a Canadian chartered bank’s prime rate plus 1.00% (4.00% as at December 31,
2013).
Demand loans from the former Commercial Tanks & Home Heating segment, payable in
monthly principal instalments totalling $19, at interest rates ranging from 3.25% to 5.25%
as at December 31, 2013.
Other
Total debt
Less: current portion of other long-term debt
Less: discount on convertible debentures (accumulated amortization: 2013 – $2,544)
Less: debt issue costs (accumulated amortization: 2013 – $1,511)
Represented by:
Convertible debentures
Other long-term debt
2014
$
3,007
2013
$
3,652
―
53,884
―
6,974
―
5,162
―
―
3,007
(644)
―
―
2,363
―
2,363
2,363
744
338
70,754
(3,522)
(463)
(646)
66,123
52,775
13,348
66,123
52
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
16. CONVERTIBLE DEBENTURES & OTHER LONG-TERM DEBT (CONT’D)
The changes in convertible debenture balances are summarized as follows:
2018 Debentures
Face value outstanding, beginning of year
Converted to common shares
Redeemed
Repurchased under NCIB
Face value outstanding, end of year
2014
$
53,884
(23,212)
(30,154)
(518)
―
2013
$
62,296
(8,412)
―
―
53,884
During 2013, the Company obtained approval to extend the maturity date of its 6.00% convertible unsecured subordinated
debentures due December 31, 2013 (the “Debentures”) from December 31, 2013 to December 31, 2018. All other terms of
the Debentures remained the same.
During 2014, the Company completed a redemption of its Debentures for an aggregate principal amount of $30,154. The
Company paid to the holders of redeemed Debentures a redemption price equal to the principal amount of the redeemed
Debentures, plus accrued and unpaid interest up to, but excluding the redemption date. For the year ended December 31,
2014, this resulted in a gain on redemption included in other income of $1,777, for the excess of the average book value of
the liability over the purchase price allocated to the liability component of the debenture, a decrease to the equity portion of
convertible debentures of $549 and a decrease to retained earnings of $376 for the excess of the purchase price allocated to
the share conversion option over the average book value of the share conversion option. Furthermore, this resulted in a
reduction in the share conversion option in the equity portion of convertible debentures of $1,591.
During 2014, pursuant to normal course issuer bids (“NCIB”), the Company repurchased $518 in principal of its issued and
outstanding Debentures at a cost of $564. For the year ended December 31, 2014, this resulted in a gain on redemption
included in other income of $31, for the excess of the average book value of the liability over the purchase price allocated to
the liability component of the debenture, a decrease to equity portion of convertible debentures of $22 and a decrease to
retained earnings of $40 for the excess of the purchase price allocated to the share conversion option over the average book
value of the share conversion option. Furthermore, this resulted in a reduction in the share conversion option in the equity
portion of convertible debentures of $27.
During 2014, the debenture holders converted $23,212 of principal of the Debentures, resulting in the issuance of 3,094,913
common shares. This resulted in a reduction in the share conversion option in the equity portion of convertible debentures of
$1,225.
The aggregate maturities of long-term debt for each of the next five twelve month periods are as follows: 2015 – $644; 2016
– $644; 2017 – $644; 2018 – $644; and 2019 – $431.
17. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Operating lease commitments
The Company has lease commitments related to properties for the following amounts: 2015 – $178; 2016 – $178; 2017 –
$178; 2018 – $80; and 2019 – $80. Included in each of the annual lease commitments for 2015 through 2017 is $98 owing to
a company owned by the Company’s Executive Chairman and his immediate family member.
53
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
17. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (CONT’D)
Other commitments
The Company is party to a subscription agreement for a 0.0839% equity interest in a long-term investment. The agreement
requires periodic capital contributions up to a cumulative maximum of US$3,000. As at December 31, 2014, net capital
contributions in the amount of US$2,249 have been called by the investee, leaving an outstanding commitment of US$751.
The Company is party to a subscription agreement for a 0.80% equity interest in a long-term investment. The agreement
requires periodic capital contributions up to a cumulative maximum of $2,500. As at December 31, 2014, net capital
contributions in the amount of $1,348 have been called by the investee, leaving an outstanding commitment of $1,152.
The Company provides indemnification agreements to certain employees acting on behalf of the Company including while
serving on various boards of directors of the Company’s investments.
Contingencies
In the normal course of business, various contingent liabilities are outstanding. These include potential claims for damages
and other actions. Management believes that adequate provisions have been made and any potential settlements would not
materially affect the Company’s results.
18. SHARE CAPITAL AND EARNINGS PER SHARE
As at and for the year ended December 31
2014
# of shares
$
2013
# of shares
$
Authorized
Unlimited number of common shares – no par value
Unlimited number of First Preferred shares
Unlimited number of Second Preferred shares
Issued
Outstanding common shares, beginning of year
Common shares issued upon conversion of Debentures
during the year
Common shares repurchased for cancellation
Outstanding common shares, end of year
Normal course issuer bid (“NCIB”)
17,641,910
42,701
16,682,315
34,249
3,094,913
(1,243,846)
19,492,977
24,434
(3,946)
63,189
1,121,595
(162,000)
17,641,910
8,785
(333)
42,701
In the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company purchased for cancellation 1,243,846 (2013 – 162,000) common shares
under a NCIB at a cost of $12,502 (2013 – $844). The purchase price in excess of the average book value of the shares in the
amount of $8,556 (2013 – $511) has been charged to retained earnings and $3,946 (2013 – $333) has been charged to share
capital.
54
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
18. SHARE CAPITAL AND EARNINGS PER SHARE (CONT’D)
Earnings per share
The following table reconciles the basic and diluted per share computations from continuing operations:
2014
Weighted
average shares
(in thousands)
#
19,393
Per
share
amount
$
2.23
Earnings
$
37,238
2013
Weighted
average shares
(in thousands)
#
16,611
Per
share
amount
$
2.24
Earnings
$
43,250
1,545
4,808
2,761
8,246
Basic earnings per share
Interest, net of income taxes, on
assumed conversion of
convertible debentures
Common shares issued on
assumed exercising of stock
options
―
Diluted earnings per share
24,201
* All potentially dilutive securities issued relate to Debentures and stock options. The Debentures were dilutive for the year
ended December 31, 2014. The Debentures and stock options were dilutive for the year ended December 31, 2013.
―
44,795
21
24,878
―
39,999
1.85
1.61
Dividends
Dividends declared from January 1, 2014 to December 31, 2014 were as follows:
Declaration date
January 14, 2014
March 6, 2014
June 11, 2014
August 7, 2014
November 5, 2014
Total
Record date
January 22, 2014
March 31, 2014
June 30, 2014
September 30, 2014
December 31, 2014
Payment date
January 31, 2014
April 15, 2014
July 11, 2014
October 10, 2014
January 13, 2015
Dividends declared from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2013 were as follows:
Declaration date
March 19, 2013
May 14, 2013
August 12, 2013
November 8, 2013
Total
Record date
March 28, 2013
May 31, 2013
August 30, 2013
November 29, 2013
Payment date
April 15, 2013
June 14, 2013
September 13, 2013
December 13, 2013
Per share
$
0.10
0.10
0.10
0.10
0.10
0.50
Per share
$
0.06
0.08
0.10
0.10
0.34
Dividend
$
1,787
1,869
2,008
1,976
1,949
9,589
Dividend
$
1,001
1,331
1,655
1,660
5,647
55
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
19. ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
The components of the Company’s accumulated other comprehensive income, net of income taxes, are as follows:
Unrealized gains on translating financial statements of self-sustaining foreign
operations
Remeasurement gains and effect of limit on asset ceiling on defined benefit plans
20. OTHER INCOME
Other income is comprised of the following:
Interest and finance fees
Gains on redemption and repurchase of Debentures
Gains on disposition of fixed assets
Foreign exchange gains (losses)
The gains on disposition of fixed assets are from the sale of land and buildings.
21.
INTEREST EXPENSE
Interest expense is comprised of the following:
Interest on long-term debt
Interest on short-term indebtedness
Amortization of discount on Debentures
Amortization of debt issue costs
2014
$
505
5,830
6,335
2014
$
4,126
1,808
1,570
103
7,607
2014
$
1,024
46
27
37
1,134
2013
$
22
9,418
9,440
2013
$
873
―
2,967
(181)
3,659
2013
$
3,936
498
114
127
4,675
56
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
22. SEGMENTED INFORMATION
The Company operates in three reportable business segments. The Investment segment represents the Company’s
marketable securities portfolio, consisting of publicly traded equity and fixed income securities, long-term investments at fair
value through profit or loss and notes receivable. The Transportation segment (formerly the Freight Transportation segment)
consists of the Company’s ferry and international shipping businesses. The Freight Transport Business from the former
Freight Transportation segment for the year ended December 31, 2013, has been reclassified to discontinued operations.
The Other segment consists of owned real estate, investments in joint ventures, our treasury, information technology and
executive functions, the results of our pension plans and the interest payable on our Debentures, which were fully redeemed
during the year ended December 31, 2014. Revenue from external customers earned in the Other segment pertains to
management service fees and rental income. The Company had previously operated the Commercial Tanks & Home Heating
segment but has reclassified this segment to discontinued operations. The Company operates predominantly in Canada.
Transactions between the segments are recorded at fair value, which is the amount of consideration established and agreed to
by management of the segments. Reconciling items represent inter-segment eliminations for services provided between
segments. Interest and dividend income from subsidiaries is eliminated within each segment.
The Company has identifiable assets as follows:
Total assets:
Investment
Transportation
Other
Commercial Tanks & Home Heating
Assets of discontinued operations
Less: intersegment eliminations
Total liabilities:
Investment
Transportation
Other
Commercial Tanks & Home Heating
Liabilities of discontinued operations
Less: intersegment eliminations
Goodwill (Commercial Tanks & Home Heating segment)
Assets located outside of Canada:
Transportation
Commercial Tanks & Home Heating
Investments in joint ventures (Other segment)
Investments in associates (Commercial Tanks & Home Heating segment)
2014
$
133,794
8,222
114,456
―
―
―
256,472
1,612
3,849
5,913
―
―
―
11,374
―
5,874
―
16
―
2013
$
137,187
8,292
47,878
60,523
44,694
(187)
298,387
1,214
4,437
90,069
31,685
16,516
(187)
143,734
9,722
7,010
3,060
698
39
57
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
22. SEGMENTED INFORMATION (CONT’D)
2014
Revenue:
Investment and other income
Intersegment sales revenue
Provision of services
Expenses
Impairment of fixed assets
Depreciation and amortization
Interest expense
Income (loss) before equity in earnings of
joint ventures and income taxes
Equity in earnings of joint ventures
Income (loss) before income taxes
Capital expenditures, intangible asset and
goodwill additions
2013
Revenue:
Investment and other income
Intersegment sales revenue
Provision of services
Expenses
Depreciation and amortization
Interest expense
Income (loss) before equity in earnings of
associates and joint ventures and income
taxes
Equity in earnings of associates and joint
ventures
Income (loss) before income taxes
Capital expenditures, intangible asset and
goodwill additions
Investment
$
Transportation
$
Other
$
Eliminations
$
Total
$
39,527
800
46
40,373
1,146
―
―
―
39,227
―
39,227
―
3
―
7,632
7,635
6,212
1,243
768
191
(779)
―
(779)
7,697
47
836
8,580
3,344
―
188
943
4,105
462
4,567
―
(847)
―
(847)
(835)
―
―
―
(12)
―
(12)
47,227
―
8,514
55,741
9,867
1,243
956
1,134
42,541
462
43,003
―
150
―
150
Investment
$
Transportation
$
Other
$
Eliminations
$
Total
$
40,491
1,800
67
42,358
580
―
―
41,778
―
41,778
―
(6)
―
7,799
7,793
6,029
972
224
4,211
907
382
5,500
3,144
237
4,451
―
(2,707)
―
(2,707)
(836)
―
―
44,696
―
8,248
52,944
8,917
1,209
4,675
568
(2,332)
(1,871)
38,143
―
568
400
(1,932)
―
(1,871)
400
38,543
719
3
―
722
23. SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION
Income taxes paid
Interest received
Interest paid
2014
$
176
3,601
1,080
2013
$
3,164
740
5,710
58
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
23. SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION (CONT’D)
Adjustments for items not involving cash
Realized/unrealized gains on investments
Pension expense (recovery) (note 9)
Gains on disposition of fixed assets (note 20)
Equity in earnings of associates and joint ventures
Impairment of fixed assets (note 10)
Deferred income tax expense (recovery) (note 12)
Dividends from joint ventures
Gains on redemption and repurchase of Debentures (note 20)
Depreciation and amortization
Share-based payment expense net of share-based payments of $391 (2013 – $264)
Discount and debt issue cost amortization
Other items
Net changes in non-cash working capital balances
Receivables
Income taxes receivable
Prepaid expenses
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Income taxes payable
2014
$
(29,264)
(3,752)
(1,570)
(462)
1,243
(263)
1,190
(1,808)
956
(254)
64
(39)
(33,959)
2014
$
(2,011)
(21)
(154)
(398)
22
(2,562)
2013
$
(38,802)
3,678
(2,967)
(400)
―
1,146
40
―
1,209
141
241
(24)
(35,738)
2013
$
(1,171)
434
(32)
117
(231)
(883)
All dividends received, interest and taxes are classified as cash flows from operating activities.
24. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES
The Company had, other than those disclosed elsewhere in these consolidated financial statements, the following related
party transactions in the normal course of operations and measured at fair value, which is the amount of consideration
established and agreed to by the related parties:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
The Company is a party to rental agreements with a company owned by the Executive Chairman and his immediate
family member. Included in ‘General and administrative expenses’ is rental and other property expenses of $187
(2013 – $168) under this agreement. Included in ‘Income from discontinued operations’ is rental and other property
expenses of nil (2013 – $49) under this agreement.
The Company provides administrative and asset management services to two pension plans it sponsors. Included in
‘Provision of services’ is $341 (2013 – $278) for services provided to the pension plans during the year.
The Company provides information technology services to related companies. Included in ‘Provision of services’ is
$35 (2013 – nil) and included in ‘Income from discontinued operations’ is nil (2013 – $349) for services provided
during the year. Included in ‘Receivables’ at December 31, 2014 is $40 and included in ‘Receivables of assets of
discontinued operations’ at December 31, 2013 is $34 for services provided.
59
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
24. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES (CONT’D)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
The Company has a promissory note receivable from Terravest, a marketable security investment, as a result of the
sale of Jerico (notes 8 & 14). The note has a three year term. Included in ‘Other income’ for the year ended
December 31, 2014 is interest income of $1,381 (2013 – nil) and included in ‘Income from discontinued operations’
for the year ended December 31, 2014 is a gain on sale of subsidiary of $4,717 (2013 – nil).
The Company has a credit facility to lend $6,000 to Holloway, maturing on or before December 31, 2015. The
facility bears interest at 7.00%. As at December 31, 2014, $3,000 was drawn on the facility. Included in ‘Other
income’ for the year ended December 31, 2014 is interest income of $210 (2013 – $325). The facility was repaid in
full subsequent to December 31, 2014.
During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company entered into a term loan agreement with Holloway, a
marketable security investment. The agreement consists of a $17,000 term loan that bears interest at 6.50%. The
term loan does not require any principal payments until the maturity on March 31, 2016, or March 31, 2017 if the
borrower requests an extension. The borrower may prepay all or part of the term loan at any time following the six
month anniversary of the first loan draw. During the year ended December 31, 2014, the borrower made its first
loan draw in the amount of $16,000 on the term loan and is included in ‘Notes receivable’ on the consolidated
statements of financial position. Interest on this note is included in ‘Other income’ for the year ended December 31,
2014 in the amount of $536 (2013 – nil).
(vii)
During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company purchased 6,263,839 shares of Holloway through the
facilities of the Toronto Stock Exchange from the Company’s Executive Chairman and a company owned by an
immediate family member of the Company’s Executive Chairman. The purchase of the shares was made for
investment purposes and the Company paid $4.50 per share.
Key management consists of the directors and officers of the Company. The compensation accrued is as follows:
Year ended December 31, 2014
Salary and fees
Bonus
Pension value
Total
25. CAPITAL DISCLOSURES
Board of directors
$
94
―
872
966
Officers
$
455
675
10
1,140
Total
$
549
675
882
2,106
The Company’s capital consists of shareholders’ equity, long-term debt and short-term loans. To maintain or adjust its
capital structure, the Company may, from time to time, issue new shares, issue new debt, repurchase existing debt or shares
and/or adjust the amount of dividends paid to shareholders. There were no significant changes in the Company’s capital
management approach from the prior year.
The Company has primary short-term loan facilities which are subject to restrictive covenants and security arrangements.
The restrictive covenants are governed by a minimum current ratio (1.20:1.00) and maximum adjusted tangible net worth
ratio (1.25:1.00). The adjusted bases of these ratios treat the Debentures as equity for the purposes of the restrictive
covenant. For the year ended December 31, 2014, all of the restrictive covenants were met for the Company’s primary short-
term facilities. The Company has unrestricted access to its credit facilities subject to pledging sufficient securities as
collateral. Any decline in the fair value of securities within the portfolio may limit the Company’s access to the full amount
of the short-term facilities.
60
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
26. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The Company’s financial instruments at December 31, 2014 and 2013 included cash and cash equivalents, receivables,
marketable securities, long-term investments, notes receivable, short-term indebtedness, accounts payable and accrued
liabilities, convertible debentures and other long-term debt.
The Company’s financial instruments are classified as follows:
Fair value through profit or loss
Marketable securities
Long-term investments, except for the investments in
associates
Loans and receivables
Cash and cash equivalents
Receivables
Notes receivable
Other liabilities
Short-term indebtedness
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Other long-term debt
Convertible debentures
The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents, receivables, short-term indebtedness and accounts payable and accrued
liabilities approximates their fair value due to the short-term maturity of these instruments.
The majority of marketable securities and long-term investments are recorded at fair value based on quoted market prices at
December 31, 2014 and 2013. Securities designated as “fair value through profit or loss” are included in the consolidated
statements of financial position at fair value, with any movement being recorded as an unrealized gain (loss) on investments
in the consolidated statements of earnings. The carrying value of investment funds, for which there is no quoted market
value and which are not publicly traded on a recognized securities exchange, are determined using the net asset value per unit
as provided by the individual funds. No fair value disclosure information is available for the investments in associates as
they are private companies without a quoted market price in an active market.
The Company uses the following hierarchy in attempting to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of
unobservable inputs, primarily using market prices in active markets.
Level 1 – Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. An active market for an asset or liability is a
market in which transactions for the asset or liability occur with sufficient frequency and volume to provide pricing on an
ongoing basis.
Level 2 – Observable inputs other than level 1 prices, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities, quoted prices in
markets that are not active, or other inputs that are observable that can be corroborated by observable market data for
substantially the full term of the asset or liability.
Level 3 – Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the
assets or liabilities.
61
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
26. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (CONT’D)
The following details the fair value hierarchy classification for financial instruments carried at fair value on the consolidated
statements of financial position:
Description
Marketable securities
Other long-term investments
Total
89,345
3,745
93,090
Fair Value at December 31, 2014 Using
Level 1
Quoted prices in active
markets for identical
assets
89,345
―
89,345
Level 2
Significant other
observable
inputs
―
3,745
3,745
Level 3
Significant
unobservable
inputs
―
―
―
The fair value of the Company’s Debentures is set out below. The fair value of the Debentures at December 31, 2013 is
based on the quoted market price for these securities. The fair values are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that the
Company may incur in actual market transactions.
6.0% Convertible debentures – 2018 maturity – Level 1
Carrying value
$
―
2014
Fair value
$
―
Carrying value
$
52,775
2013
Fair value
$
55,231
Differences between the carrying values and fair values of other debt instruments are not significant given that they are
subject to a floating rate of interest. Level 3 fair values are based on discounted cash flows associated with the financial
instrument.
Risks associated with financial assets and liabilities
The Company is exposed to various financial risks arising from its financial assets and liabilities. These include market risk
relating to equity prices, interest rates and foreign exchange rates, liquidity risk and credit risk. To manage these risks, the
Company performs detailed risk assessment procedures at the individual investment level, under the framework of a global
risk management philosophy.
Market risk
Market risk is the risk that the fair value of future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in
market prices. For the Company, market risk is comprised of equity price risk, interest rate risk and foreign exchange risk.
Equity price risk
Equity price risk refers to the risk that the fair value of marketable securities and long-term investments will vary as
a result of changes in market prices of the investments. The carrying values of investments subject to equity price
risk are, in almost all instances, based on quoted market prices as of the statement of financial position dates.
Market prices are subject to fluctuation and, consequently, the amount realized in the subsequent sale of an
investment may significantly differ from the reported market value. Fluctuations in the market price of a security
may have no relation to the intrinsic value of the security. Furthermore, amounts realized in the sale of a particular
security may be affected by the quantity of the security being sold.
62
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
26. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (CONT’D)
The table below shows the impact to the Company on consolidated net income and other comprehensive income of a
10% increase or decrease in market prices on securities carried at market value in the consolidated statements of
financial position of the Company. The selected change does not reflect what could be considered the best or worst
case scenarios.
Fair value
$
89,345
89,345
Price change
%
10% increase
10% decrease
Estimated fair value after
price change
$
98,280
80,410
After-tax impact on net income
$
7,550
(7,550)
The Company manages its equity price risk by purchasing and holding securities of companies that it believes trade
at a discount to their intrinsic values.
Interest rate risk
Interest rate risk refers to the risk that interest expense on floating rate debt will vary as a result of changes in
underlying interest rates. The Company partially mitigates its exposure to interest rate fluctuations by borrowing
both fixed and floating rate debt. The Company may enter into interest rate swap transactions where considered
necessary to further manage interest rate exposure. At December 31, 2014, the Company had not entered into any
interest rate swap transactions (2013 – nil).
At December 31, 2014, the after-tax net income effect of a 1% change in interest rates would have been $21 on
floating rate debt of $3,007.
Foreign exchange risk
Foreign exchange risk refers to the risk that values of financial assets and liabilities denominated in foreign
currencies in the consolidated statements of financial position of the Company will vary as a result of changes in
underlying foreign exchange rates.
The Company has operations throughout North America, and as such is exposed to movements in the US/Canadian
exchange rate. At December 31, 2014, the effect of a 20% change in the US/Canadian exchange rate on after-tax
consolidated net income would have been $30 based on a US net asset balance of US$188.
The Company manages its exposure to foreign exchange risk by entering into forward foreign exchange contracts.
At December 31, 2014 the Company did not have any forward contracts outstanding (2013 – none outstanding).
Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Company will encounter difficulty in meeting its financial obligations. The Company
believes it has access to sufficient capital through cash on hand, operating cash flows and existing borrowing facilities to
meet these obligations. During the year ended December 31, 2014, short-term indebtedness has decreased by $43,878. At
December 31, 2014, the Company had cash of $79,061 and available unused facilities totalling $20,000.
63
Clarke Inc.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2014 and 2013
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)
26. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (CONT’D)
The following table shows the timing of expected payments of current liabilities and long-term debt:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Other long-term debt
Credit risk
Due within 1 year
$
4,504
644
5,148
1 to 3 years
$
―
1,288
1,288
3 to 5 years
$
―
1,075
1,075
After 5 years
$
―
―
―
Credit risk refers to the risk that a counterparty will fail to fulfill its obligations under a contract and, as a result, will cause
the Company to suffer a loss. This risk is mitigated through credit policies that limit transactions according to counterparties’
credit quality. The Company assesses the credit quality of all counterparties, taking into account their financial position, past
experience and other factors. The Company established an allowance for doubtful accounts that corresponds to the credit
risk of its specific customers, historical trends and economic circumstances.
The Company believes there are no significant concentrations of credit risk due to the low level of trade receivables and
significant cash balance. The maximum exposure to credit risk associated with financial assets is the total carrying value of
those receivables.
27. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
On December 16, 2014, the Company announced its intention to commence a substantial issuer bid pursuant to which it
would offer to purchase up to 2,500,000 of its outstanding common shares at a purchase price of $9.50 per share. Subsequent
to December 31, 2014, the Company announced that a total of 665,330 common shares were deposited at the expiration of
the offer. Clarke took up all of the shares deposited resulting in a total purchase price of $6,321.
On February 3, 2015, the Company completed its previously announced sale of the MV Shamrock for net proceeds of
US$4,605.
64
Clarke Inc.
9th Floor
6009 Quinpool Road
Halifax, Nova Scotia
B3K 5J7
www.clarkeinc.com