Clarke Inc.
Annual Report 2017

Plain-text annual report

Halifax, Canada MD&A & Financial Statements 2017 Management’s Discussion & Analysis Clarke Inc. December 31, 2017 and 2016 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, 2017 compared with the year ended December 31, 2016. 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, 2017 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 investments. The MD&A is prepared as at February 13, 2018 (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. FULL YEAR REVIEW AND OUTLOOK During 2017, the Company’s book value per share decreased by $0.90 or 7.8%. The decrease can be ascribed mainly to (i) $0.24 per Clarke common share (“Common Share”) of positive investment performance and net income, (ii) a positive $0.85 per Common Share resulting from the recognition of additional surplus in one of our pension plans, and (iii) the payment of a $2.00 per Common Share special dividend. Our book value per Common Share at the end of the year was $10.71 while our Common Share price was $10.45. During 2017 we received aggregate distributions from our pension plans of $33.4 million. Following the wind-up of Clarke’s Nova Scotia pension plan in the third quarter, Clarke received a distribution of this pension plan’s surplus in the amount of $29.6 million. More than $20.0 million of this distribution was received in cash while approximately $7.3 million is expected to be received following the filing of Clarke’s year-end tax return. In the fourth quarter, Clarke received a $3.8 million pre- tax distribution of surplus from its Quebec pension plan following amendments to the surplus withdrawal rules under the Quebec Supplemental Pension Plans Act. As a result of the new legislation, the Company expects to withdraw on an annual basis up to 20% of the surplus in its Quebec pension plan in excess of a 105% solvency ratio. We expect the next distribution from this pension plan to occur in the first quarter of 2018. These distributions are not included in our net income. At the end of the fourth quarter, Clarke commenced a substantial issuer bid for its Common Shares. Subsequent to year-end, Clarke repurchased under this substantial issuer bid 1,851,579 Common Shares or 12.7% of the outstanding Common Shares for an aggregate purchase price of $19.4 million. The special dividend, normal course share repurchases and substantial issuer bid resulted in Clarke returning $51.5 million to shareholders since the start of 2017. We continue to believe that our two core holdings remain undervalued. Holloway Lodging Corp. (“Holloway”) has seen business levels improve modestly in Western Canada and is performing well throughout the rest of Canada. The company’s 1debt refinancing in May 2017 materially reduced the company’s debt service. Since the third quarter of 2017, Holloway has ramped up its share repurchases which we believe are being completed at attractive prices. TerraVest Capital Inc. (“Terravest”) has also seen its business levels improve modestly as a result of improved energy prices. Terravest completed several acquisitions in recent quarters and we do not believe the full benefits of these acquisitions have been realized. We believe that Terravest can further optimize its operations and drive additional EBITDA and free cash flow growth, which should cause its valuation to improve further. During the year, we fully disposed of an energy basket debt security, which resulted in a total return of $2.9 million and an IRR of 30%. We also began to sell one energy basket equity security but have not fully disposed of this investment. Our two other remaining energy basket securities remain in a loss position but remain undervalued in our view. It remains challenging to find investments that meet our investment criteria. While some investors may choose to alter their investment strategies or dilute their investment criteria at times like these, we are not going to do so. We understand the source of our returns over time and it is largely from investments made at times of market or industry dislocation or from company-specific challenges that we believe we can help rectify. Accordingly, our bias is to continue returning capital to shareholders until such time as more attractive opportunities present themselves. BOOK VALUE PER SHARE The Company’s book value per share at December 31, 2017 was $10.71, a decrease of $0.90 per Common Share since December 31, 2016. The following graph shows Clarke’s book value per share, share price and cumulative dividends paid since 2002 (the year the present Executive Chairman joined the Company). $13.00 $12.00 $11.00 $10.00 $9.00 $8.00 $7.00 $6.00 $5.00 $4.00 $3.00 6.55 7.52 6.95 5.00 5.62 3.71 4.79 3.03 2.34 3.53 3.27 3.35 4.07 5.41 4.12 5.31 5.15 4.77 4.00 12.57 12.21 11.61 10.71 10.45 10.00 9.86 9.36 8.32 7.99 6.12 4.12 $2.00 2.62 2.68 2.74 $1.00 $0.00 0.08 0.16 0.24 0.32 0.40 0.48 0.56 0.56 0.56 0.56 1.92 1.52 0.68 1.02 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Book Value Per Share Cumulative Dividend Clarke Share Price * 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. All other information is for the years ended December 31. 2The following graph compares the yearly change in the value of $100 invested since 2002 (the year the present Executive Chairman joined the Company) in (i) the TSX Composite Total Return Index, (ii) the S&P 500 Total Return Index, and (iii) the Company based on the change in book value per share (“BVPS”) and cumulative dividends paid. 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) Year ended December 31, 2015 $ (14.7) 3.7 2.7 8.9 (11.1) (8.8) (0.66) 198.9 1.7 0.40 12.21 *Revenue and other income includes pension expense/recovery, gains on sale of fixed assets, foreign exchange gains/losses, and service revenue. Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments Dividend income Interest income Revenue and other income* Net income (loss) Comprehensive income (loss) Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share (“EPS”) Total assets Long-term financial liabilities Cash dividends declared per share Book value per share Year ended December 31, 2017 $ 3.2 3.6 0.8 5.2 3.5 15.9 0.24 160.6 0.4 2.00 10.71 Year ended December 31, 2016 $ 20.2 3.5 1.7 7.3 25.4 22.9 1.66 177.8 1.1 2.20 11.61 Net income of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2017 was $3.5 million compared with net income of $25.4 million in 2016. During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company had unrealized gains on its investments of $30.4 million compared to unrealized gains of $20.1 million in 2016. The Company had realized losses on its investments of $27.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared with realized gains of $0.1 million in 2016. - 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800January 1, 2002 Values= 100Clarke Inc. BVPS + DividendsTSX Composite - Total ReturnS&P 500 - Total Return (CAD)3INVESTMENT HOLDINGS The Company owns securities, interests in two private equity funds and a ferry business. The Company’s equity holdings generated dividends of $3.6 million in the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to $3.5 million in 2016. The Company’s debt and cash holdings generated interest income of $0.8 million in the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to $1.7 million in 2016. This decrease is due to the sale of debentures. Securities Portfolio The Company’s securities portfolio consisted of the following investments: December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 Shares or face value N/A 7,952,715 ― 4,292,000 5,750,000 ― Market Price $ N/A 5.70 ― 1.12 9.35 ― Market value $’000 15,503 45,330 ― 4,823 53,763 ― 119,419 % 13.0 38.0 ― 4.0 45.0 ― 100.0 Shares or face value N/A 7,952,715 6,909,000 4,292,000 5,750,000 N/A Market Price $ N/A 5.00 0.93 0.97 8.75 N/A Market value $’000 31,770 39,764 % 23.6 29.5 6,391 4,162 50,312 2,422 4.7 3.1 37.3 1.8 134,821 100.0 Energy Securities Portfolio Holloway shares Holloway 6.25% Convertible Debentures Keck Seng Investments Ltd. Terravest shares Undisclosed investments Carrying value of securities The breakdown of the change in the Company’s securities portfolio is as follows: Securities – beginning of year Purchases Proceeds on sale Realized and unrealized gains on securities (net of foreign exchange losses on securities) Securities – end of year Other Investments Year ended December 31, 2017 $ 134.8 0.2 (17.8) 2.2 119.4 We currently have $1.8 million invested in two private equity funds, which management considers legacy investments. We also own a passenger/car ferry operating on the St. Lawrence River under contract with the Government of Québec since 1973. There were no material developments with these assets during the year. OUTSTANDING SHARE DATA At February 13, 2018, the Company had:  An unlimited number of Common Shares authorized and 12,706,588 Common Shares outstanding; and  An unlimited number of First and Second Preferred Shares authorized and none outstanding.  250,000 options to acquire Common Shares outstanding, all of which are vested and exercisable. NORMAL COURSE ISSUER BIDS (“NCIB”) The directors and management are of the opinion that, from time to time, the prices of the Company’s Common Shares may not reflect their intrinsic value and, therefore, purchasing such Common Shares may be a worthwhile use of funds and in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders. 4In May 2016, Clarke announced that it had received approval from the TSX to conduct a NCIB to purchase for cancellation up to 781,308 Common Shares, representing 5% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares as at that date. The NCIB commenced on June 2, 2016 and Clarke repurchased all 781,308 Common Shares permitted by the end of 2016. In May 2017, Clarke announced that it had received approval from the TSX to conduct a NCIB to purchase for cancellation up to 742,243 Common Shares, representing 5% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares as at that date. The NCIB commenced on June 2, 2017 and Clarke repurchased 243,900 Common Shares by the end of 2017. LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES At December 31, 2017, the Company’s cash position was $20.8 million compared to $6.8 million at December 31, 2016. This increase in cash is mainly a result of proceeds on the sale of investments offset by the repurchase of Common Shares. Cash flow from operating activities Cash provided by operating activities was $4.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016. The cash from operating activities is driven mainly by the dividends and interest received during the year as well as the ferry operations. At December 31, 2017, working capital excluding securities was $25.0 million, compared to $5.8 million at December 31, 2016. 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 $41.9 million was provided by investing activities during the year ended December 31, 2017, compared to $3.6 million provided in 2016. Net cash provided by investing activities during the year was mainly a result of the after-tax pension surplus distributions of $23.4 million and net sales of investments (sales less purchases) in the amount of $17.6 million. Cash provided by investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2016 was mainly the result of proceeds on sale of a building of $3.6 million and proceeds from the repayment of a loan receivable of $1.7 million. This was partially offset by net purchases of investments (purchases less sales) in the amount of $2.0 million during the year. Cash flow from financing activities Net cash used in financing activities was $32.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, compared to $43.8 million used in 2016. Net cash used in financing activities during the year was related to the payment of a special dividend in the amount of $29.3 million and the repurchase of Common Shares of $2.7 million. Cash used in financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2016 was mainly related to the payment of regular and special dividends in the amount of $35.9 million and the repurchase of Common Shares of $7.2 million. Available capital under credit facilities The Company has access to credit facilities where certain of the Company’s securities are pledged as collateral. At December 31, 2017, $6.6 million was available under these facilities 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. 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 $ 1.1 0.3 1.4 Less than 1 year $ 0.6 0.2 0.8 1 – 3 years $ 0.5 0.1 0.6 3 - 5 years $ ― ― ― After 5 years $ ― ― ― 5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 securities, depending upon the type of instrument, with certain market value restrictions. At December 31, 2017 and 2016, Clarke had drawn nil under these facilities and had total cash availability of $6.6 million (2016 – $43.0 million) (see note 16 to the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2017). Unrecorded commitments At December 31, 2017, 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, 2017, and in note 11 to the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2017.  Other commitments, as discussed in note 11 to the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2017. FOURTH QUARTER A comparison of results for the three months ended December 31, 2017, compared to three months ended December 31, 2016, is as follows: Revenue Realized and unrealized gains on investments Dividend income Interest income Provision of services Other income (loss) Expenses Cost of services provided General and administrative expenses Share-based payment expense Depreciation and amortization Income before income taxes Provision for income taxes Net income (loss) Comprehensive income Three months ended December 31, 2017 $ Three months ended December 31, 2016 $ 1.1 0.9 0.1 1.1 (0.3) 2.9 0.9 0.9 0.4 0.1 0.6 1.2 (0.6) 10.9 9.5 0.9 0.3 1.1 0.3 12.1 0.9 1.3 ― 0.4 9.5 0.1 9.4 11.0 Net realized and unrealized gains on investments for the fourth quarter of 2017 were $1.1 million compared to $9.5 million for the same period in 2016. Interest income for the fourth quarter of 2017 was $0.1 million compared to $0.3 million for the same period in 2016 mainly due to the sale of debentures in 2017. General and administrative expenses during the fourth quarter of 2017 were $0.4 million lower than expenses during the same period in 2016. The Company had a net loss of $0.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2017 compared to net income of $9.4 million in the same period in 2016. This was largely driven by the decrease in unrealized gains on investments during the period compared to the same period in the prior year. Comprehensive income for the fourth quarter was $10.9 million compared to $11.0 million for the same period in 2016. For the three months ended December 31, 2017, Clarke’s basic EPS was negative $0.04, compared to earnings of $0.64 for the same period in 2016. 6Net cash provided by operating activities was $1.4 million for the fourth quarter of 2017, compared to $1.2 million provided in the same period in 2016. Cash flow provided in the fourth quarter of 2017 and 2016 was driven mainly by the dividends and interest received during the period as well as the ferry operations. Net cash provided by investment activities was $9.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2017, compared to $2.2 million used in the same period in 2016. Net sales (sales less purchases) of securities in the fourth quarter of 2017 totalled $6.6 million compared to net purchases of $2.1 million in the fourth quarter of 2016. The Company also received a pension plan surplus distribution of $2.7 million after-tax during the fourth quarter of 2017. Net cash used in financing activities for the fourth quarter of 2017 was $0.9 million compared to net cash used of $0.4 million for the same period in 2016. During the fourth quarter of 2017 the Company made its regular long-term debt repayments and continued to repurchase shares under its NCIB. SUMMARY OF QUARTERLY RESULTS Key financial information for the current and preceding seven quarters is as follows: Three months ended Revenue Net income (loss) Other comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive income (loss) Basic and diluted EPS (in dollars) Mar. 2016 $ (3.1) (4.6) (1.6) (6.2) (0.29) Jun. 2016 $ 7.3 6.4 (3.2) 3.2 0.41 Sept. 2016 $ 16.4 14.2 0.7 14.9 0.93 Dec. 2016 $ 12.1 9.4 1.6 11.0 0.64 Mar. 2017 $ 5.6 4.2 0.8 5.0 0.28 Jun. 2017 $ 1.9 ― 0.7 0.7 ― Sept. 2017 $ 2.4 ― (0.6) (0.6) ― Dec. 2017 $ 2.9 (0.6) 11.5 10.9 (0.04) 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. 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. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS The Company was party to the following related party transactions during the year ended December 31, 2017:  The Company is a party to rental agreements with a company owned by the Executive Chairman and his immediate family member. Included in ‘Expenses’ is rental and other property expenses of $0.1 million (2016 – $0.1 million) under this agreement.  The Company provides administrative and asset management services to two pension plans it sponsors. Included in ‘Revenue’ is $0.4 million (2016 – $0.4 million) for services provided to the pension plans during the year.  During the year, the Company provided consulting and tax services for Holloway and Terravest which are investments in associates of the Company. Included in ‘Revenue’ is $0.2 million for the services provided.  During the year, the Company sold marketable securities through the facilities of the Toronto Stock Exchange to the Clarke Inc. Master Trust, which holds the units of the pension plans administered by the Company. The sale was made for investment purposes and the Company received net proceeds of $5.9 million.  During the prior year, the Company provided information technology services to related companies. Included in ‘Revenue’ is $0.5 million for services provided during 2016. 7Key management consists of the directors and officers of the Company. The compensation accrued is as follows: Year ended December 31, 2017 Salary and fees Bonus Pension value Total FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS Board of directors $ 0.1 ― 0.9 1.0 Officers $ 0.5 0.4 ― 0.9 Total $ 0.6 0.4 0.9 1.9 In the normal course of operations, the Company uses the following financial and other instruments:   To generate investment returns, the Company will invest in equity, debt and other securities. These instruments may have interest rate, market, credit and foreign exchange risk associated with them. To manage foreign exchange, interest rate and general market risk, the Company may enter into futures and forward exchange contracts. These instruments may have interest, market, credit and foreign exchange risk associated with them. Clarke hedges its foreign currency exposure on U.S. dollar denominated investments. Clarke anticipates continuing this policy for the foreseeable future. As an investment company, Clarke has a significant number of financial instruments. Notes 1, 4, 7, 10, 16 and 17 to the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2017 and the Company’s 2017 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 business is hotel ownership. Holloway owns 32 hotels comprising 3,665 rooms. As of December 31, 2017, Clarke owned 43.3% of the outstanding shares of Holloway. Selected Financial Information (audited) Total assets Total liabilities Shareholders' equity Total revenue Net loss Terravest Year ended December 31, 2016 $ 351.4 246.4 105.0 106.4 (1.3) Year ended December 31, 2015 $ 356.4 246.8 109.6 110.7 (3.7) 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, 2017, Clarke owned 31.4% of the outstanding shares of Terravest. 8Selected Financial Information (audited) Total assets Total liabilities Shareholders' equity Total revenue Net income Year ended September 30, 2017 $ 207.4 120.8 86.6 192.5 9.0 Year ended September 30, 2016 $ 168.9 82.4 86.5 178.5 7.7 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, 2017, 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 GAAP. 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 (2013). 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, 2017 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 Company’s ferry. 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 five 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. 9CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING USE OF NON-IFRS ACCOUNTING MEASURES This MD&A makes reference to the Company’s 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 at the date of the statement of financial position by the number of Common Shares outstanding at that date. Clarke’s method of determining this amount may differ from other companies’ methods and, accordingly, this amount may not be comparable to measures used by other companies. This amount is not a performance measure 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. 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”, “budgets”, “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, the future price of oil and value of securities held in the Company’s energy basket, 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 investment in a ferry operation, 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 Please refer to notes 1 and 2 of our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2017 for a detailed discussion regarding our significant accounting policies and application of significant accounting judgments, estimates and assumptions. Such changes are reflected in the assumptions when they occur. 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 5 of the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2017. 10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. 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. 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. 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 has assessed this new standard and there will be no significant impact to the consolidated financial statements when adopted. 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, 2018. The Company has assessed this new standard and there will be no significant impact to the consolidated financial statements when adopted. IFRS 16 Leases IFRS 16 sets out the principles for the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of leases for both parties to a contract, i.e. the customer (‘lessee’) and the supplier (‘lessor’). IFRS 16 eliminates the classification of leases as either operating leases or finance leases as is required by IAS 17 and, instead, introduces a single lessee accounting model. Applying that model, a lessee is required to recognize: 1) assets and liabilities for all leases with a term of more than twelve months, unless the underlying asset is of low value and 2) depreciation of lease assets separately from interest on lease liabilities on the statements of earnings. The standard is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the new standard. 11Consolidated Financial Statements Clarke Inc. December 31, 2017 and 2016 12February 13, 2018 Independent Auditor’s Report To the Shareholders of Clarke Inc. We have audited the accompanying consolidated financial statements of Clarke Inc. and its subsidiaries, which comprise the consolidated statements of financial position as at December 31, 2017 and 2016 and the consolidated statements of earnings, comprehensive income, cash flows and shareholders’ equity for the years then ended, and the related notes, which comprise 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. and its subsidiaries as at December 31, 2017 and 2016 and their financial performance and their cash flows for the years then ended in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards. (signed) “PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP” Chartered Professional Accountants, Licensed Public Accountants PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP 1601 Lower Water Street, Suite 400, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada B3J 3P6 T: +1 902 491 7400, F: +1 902 422 1166 “PwC” refers to PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an Ontario limited liability partnership. 13Clarke Inc. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION (in thousands of Canadian dollars) As at December 31 ASSETS Current Cash and cash equivalents Marketable securities (note 4) Receivables Income taxes receivable Prepaid expenses Total current assets Accrued pension benefit asset (note 5) Fixed assets and investment properties (note 6) Long-term investments (note 7) Deferred income tax assets (note 8) Total assets LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY Current Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Income taxes payable Current portion of long-term debt (note 10) Total current liabilities Long-term debt (note 10) Deferred income tax liabilities (note 8) Total liabilities Commitments (note 11) Shareholders’ equity Share capital (note 9) Retained earnings Accumulated other comprehensive income Share-based payments (note 12) 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 2017 $ 2016 $ 20,773 119,419 670 5,710 99 146,671 10,270 444 1,843 1,420 160,648 1,440 127 645 2,212 430 1,618 4,260 6,770 134,821 1,012 155 91 142,849 30,434 486 2,925 1,069 177,763 1,575 ― 644 2,219 1,075 2,170 5,464 47,330 89,010 18,503 1,545 156,388 160,648 48,121 116,789 6,142 1,247 172,299 177,763 14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 Interest income Provision of services Other income (loss) (note 13) Expenses Cost of services provided General and administrative expenses Share-based payment expense (note 12) Depreciation and impairment (note 6) Interest expense Income before income taxes Provision for (recovery of) income taxes (note 8) Net income Basic earnings per share: (in dollars) (note 9) Diluted earnings per share: (in dollars) (note 9) See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements 2017 $ 2016 $ 30,380 (27,182) 3,573 774 6,749 (1,475) 12,819 3,923 2,529 298 232 52 7,034 5,785 2,279 3,506 20,118 121 3,528 1,746 6,971 252 32,736 4,071 3,271 147 427 76 7,992 24,744 (662) 25,406 0.24 1.66 0.24 1.66 15Clarke Inc. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (in thousands of Canadian dollars) Years ended December 31 Net income Other comprehensive income (loss) 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, net of income tax expense of $1,319 (2016 – nil) (note 5) Other comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive income See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements 2017 $ 2016 $ 3,506 25,406 12,361 12,361 15,867 (2,474) (2,474) 22,932 16Clarke Inc. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (in thousands of Canadian dollars) Years ended December 31 OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net income Adjustments for items not involving cash (note 14) Net change in non-cash working capital balances (note 14) Net cash provided by operating activities INVESTING ACTIVITIES Proceeds on disposition of marketable securities Purchase of marketable securities Proceeds on disposition of fixed assets Purchase of fixed assets (note 6) Distribution of pension plan surplus, net of tax (note 5) Return of capital (net of purchases) of long-term investments Proceeds of loans receivable Net cash provided by investing activities FINANCING ACTIVITIES Dividends paid (note 9) Repurchase of shares for cancellation (note 9) Repayment of long-term debt (note 10) Net cash used in financing activities Net change in cash during the year Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year Cash and cash equivalents, end of year See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements 2017 $ 2016 $ 3,506 (3,529) (23) 4,800 4,777 17,828 (230) 2 (190) 23,411 1,125 ― 41,946 (29,338) (2,738) (644) (32,720) 14,003 6,770 20,773 25,406 (21,057) 4,349 437 4,786 9,501 (11,459) 3,600 (61) ― 344 1,717 3,642 (35,918) (7,226) (644) (43,788) (35,360) 42,130 6,770 17Clarke Inc. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (in thousands of Canadian dollars) Years ended December 31 Share capital Common shares: Balance at beginning of year Common shares repurchased for cancellation (note 9) Balance at end of year Retained earnings Balance at beginning of year Net income Dividends declared (note 9) Purchase price in excess of the book value of common shares repurchased for cancellation (note 9) Balance at end of year Accumulated other comprehensive income Balance at beginning of year Other comprehensive income (loss) Balance at end of year Share-based payments Balance at beginning of year Share-based payment expense (note 12) Balance at end of year Total shareholders’ equity See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements 2017 $ 2016 $ 48,121 (791) 47,330 50,654 (2,533) 48,121 116,789 3,506 (29,338) 130,431 25,406 (34,355) (1,947) 89,010 (4,693) 116,789 6,142 12,361 18,503 1,247 298 1,545 156,388 8,616 (2,474) 6,142 1,100 147 1,247 172,299 18Clarke Inc. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS December 31, 2017 and 2016 (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 13, 2018. 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. 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 2. 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 and La Traverse Rivière-du-Loup – St-Siméon Limitée. 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 long-term investments 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. 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. 19Clarke Inc. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS December 31, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D) 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 from the Company’s ferry business is recognized upon provision of those services and customer acceptance of those services. Foreign currency translation The Company’s consolidated financial statements are presented in Canadian dollars, which is also the functional currency of the parent company. Transactions in foreign currencies are initially recorded 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. There were no non-monetary assets or liabilities denominated in foreign currencies as at December 31, 2017. All exchange gains and losses are recorded in other income as incurred. Government grants 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 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. 20Clarke Inc. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS December 31, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D) 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 in respect of taxable temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries 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, 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. Sales tax Revenues, expenses and assets are recognized net of the amount of sales tax, except: • 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 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. 21Clarke Inc. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS December 31, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D) 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 Computer hardware Furniture and equipment Ferry and vessel dry dock costs Years 2 to 5, 30% 8, 20% 3 to 5 Method Straight-line/declining balance Straight-line/declining balance 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. 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. Operating lease payments are recognized as an expense in the consolidated statements of earnings on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Operating segments The Company operates in one reporting segment, the Investment segment, which includes investments in a diversified group of businesses, operating primarily in Canada. 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 and long-term investments. 22Clarke Inc. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS December 31, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D) Subsequent measurement Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss 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 in the consolidated statements of earnings. 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 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 debtor 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 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. The present value of the estimated future cash flows is discounted at the financial asset’s original 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 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. 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. 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, and long-term debt. 23Clarke Inc. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS December 31, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D) Subsequent measurement After initial recognition, interest bearing loans and borrowings are subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest rate (“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 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 last bid price, 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 17. Derivative financial instruments 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. Provisions 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. 24Clarke Inc. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS December 31, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D) 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. The 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 of the asset. In determining fair value less costs to sell, recent market transactions are taken into account, if available. If no 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. Impairment losses are recognized in the consolidated statements of earnings. 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. Pensions and other post-employment benefits The Company has two defined benefit pension plans covering full-time employees who commenced employment before September 2003. In the prior year there were three plans, and during 2017 the Company received approval from the Nova Scotia Pension Regulation Division to terminate and wind-up one plan. For other employees, the Company has a RRSP and defined contribution 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 comprises the fair value of plan assets less the present value of the defined benefit obligation (using a discount rate based on high quality corporate bonds, as explained in note 2). 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 is calculated based on net income using the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the year. Diluted earnings per share is 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. 25Clarke Inc. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS December 31, 2017 and 2016 (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. 2. 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 judgements, 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. 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. 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 that would lead to increased ownership. 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. 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. 26Clarke Inc. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS December 31, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) 2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING JUDGEMENTS, ESTIMATES AND ASSUMPTIONS (CONT’D) 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 5. 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. 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. 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. 3. 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 has assessed this new standard and there will be no significant impact to the consolidated financial statements when adopted. 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, 2018. The Company has assessed this new standard and there will be no significant impact to the consolidated financial statements when adopted. 27Clarke Inc. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS December 31, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) 3. STANDARDS ISSUED BUT NOT YET EFFECTIVE (CONT’D) IFRS 16 Leases IFRS 16 sets out the principles for the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of leases for both parties to a contract, i.e. the customer (‘lessee’) and the supplier (‘lessor’). IFRS 16 eliminates the classification of leases as either operating leases or finance leases as is required by IAS 17 and, instead, introduces a single lessee accounting model. Applying that model, a lessee is required to recognize: 1) assets and liabilities for all leases with a term of more than twelve months, unless the underlying asset is of low value and 2) depreciation of lease assets separately from interest on lease liabilities on the statements of earnings. The standard is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the new standard. 4. MARKETABLE SECURITIES The Company’s marketable securities include publicly traded equities and convertible debentures measured at fair value through profit or loss. 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. 5. EMPLOYEE FUTURE BENEFITS The Company has two defined benefit plans (2016 – three plans) providing pensions for staff who commenced employment prior to September 1, 2003. For all other staff, the Company provides RRSP and defined contribution matching pension plans. During the year, the Company received approval from the Nova Scotia Pension Regulation Division to terminate and wind- up the Clarke Group Pension Plan (the “Plan”), which was administered by Clarke Inc. Following a settlement of the Plan’s liabilities, the Company received a pre-tax distribution of surplus in the amount of $29,586. Also during the year, the Company received a pre-tax distribution from a second pension plan in the amount of $3,858 following amendments to the surplus withdrawal rules under the Quebec Supplemental Pension Plans Act (the “Act”). The amendments clarify the Act’s position and requirements as to how a sponsor can make surplus withdrawals from a Quebec plan. As a result of the amendments, the cumulative impact of the asset ceiling on that plan was reversed through other comprehensive income. 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 one defined benefit pension plan for funding purposes was as of December 31, 2014 and for the second defined benefit pension plan was as of December 31, 2015. Total cash payments Total cash payments for employee future benefits for the year ended December 31, 2017, consisting of cash contributed by the Company to its RRSP and defined contribution matching pension plans were $96 (2016 – $112). 28Clarke Inc. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS December 31, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) 5. EMPLOYEE FUTURE BENEFITS (CONT’D) 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 Surplus distribution Balance, end of year Defined benefit plan obligations Accrued benefit obligation Balance, beginning of year Current service cost Interest cost Employee contributions Benefits paid Remeasurement losses Balance, end of year 2017 $ 111,426 3,725 2 (3,227) (477) 5,826 (33,444) 83,831 2017 $ 49,943 608 1,861 2 (3,227) 2,469 51,656 2016 $ 100,648 3,941 2 (1,775) (498) 9,108 ― 111,426 2016 $ 48,113 571 1,888 2 (1,775) 1,144 49,943 Reconciliations of the funded status of the benefit plans to the amounts recorded on the consolidated statements of financial position are: 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 2017 $ 83,831 (51,656) 32,175 (21,905) 10,270 2016 $ 111,426 (49,943) 61,483 (31,049) 30,434 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 Net interest on surplus Provision for non-investment management fees Defined benefit recovery (expense) recognized 2017 $ (608) 685 (477) (400) 2016 $ (571) 1,269 (498) 200 29Clarke Inc. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS December 31, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) 5. EMPLOYEE FUTURE BENEFITS (CONT’D) Elements of the defined benefit recovery (expense) recognized in other comprehensive income are as follows: For the years ended December 31: Net remeasurement gains Change in amount of asset ceiling Deferred income tax expense 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 * 2017 $ 3,357 10,323 (1,319) 12,361 2016 $ 7,964 (10,438) ― (2,474) 2017 % 2016 % 3.40 2.50 – 4.00 3.80 2.50 – 4.00 3.80 2.50 – 4.00 3.95 2.50 – 4.00 * The rate of compensation increase is only applicable to the two remaining active members of the Pension Plan. 6. FIXED ASSETS AND INVESTMENT PROPERTIES Furniture, equipment and computer hardware $ Ferry and vessel dry dock costs $ Investment properties – land $ Investment properties – buildings $ Cost January 1, 2016 Additions Disposals December 31, 2016 Additions Disposals December 31, 2017 Accumulated depreciation and impairment January 1, 2016 Depreciation Disposals Impairments December 31, 2016 Depreciation Disposals December 31, 2017 Carrying value – 2016 Carrying value – 2017 385 6 ― 391 16 (261) 146 161 64 ― 144 369 14 (261) 122 22 24 3,605 55 ― 3,660 174 ― 3,834 3,144 219 ― ― 3,363 218 ― 3,581 297 253 167 ― ― 167 ― ― 167 ― ― ― ― ― ― ― ― 167 167 5,202 ― (5,202) ― ― ― ― 1,962 ― (1,962) ― ― ― ― ― ― ― Total $ 9,359 61 (5,202) 4,218 190 (261) 4,147 5,267 283 (1,962) 144 3,732 232 (261) 3,703 486 444 30Clarke Inc. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS December 31, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) 6. FIXED ASSETS AND INVESTMENT PROPERTIES (CONT’D) The Company’s investment properties represent land previously used in operations that are now held to earn rental income or for future resale. Depreciation for the year ended December 31, 2017 was $232 (2016 – $283). At December 31, 2017, there were no assets under finance leases. During the prior year, certain equipment in the Company’s former Information Technology division was written down to its fair value, which was less than its carrying value. An impairment loss of $144 is included in the consolidated statements of earnings for the year ended December 31, 2016. The Company sold the equipment in early 2017 to a related party for a nominal amount, which was the carrying amount on the transaction date. Also during the prior year, the Company sold a building to the Clarke Inc. Master Trust (“Master Trust”) which holds the units of the pension plans administered by the Company. The proceeds received were $3,600 and the gain on sale was $360. This related party transaction was in the normal course of operations and measured at fair value. 7. LONG-TERM INVESTMENTS The Company’s long-term investments consist of two investment funds and are designated as fair value through profit or loss. The investment funds require periodic capital contributions, and as at December 31, 2017, the outstanding commitments to the funds were $247 and US$766, respectively. 8. 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 change in recoverable amount of a deferred income tax asset Provision for (recovery of) income taxes 2017 $ 4,501 ― (1,641) (581) 2,279 2016 $ (61) 15 2,837 (3,453) (662) The provision for (recovery of) income taxes varies from the expected provision at statutory rates for the following reasons: Provision for income taxes at statutory rate of 28.80% (2016 – 29.56%) Increase (decrease) from statutory rate: Effect of difference in statutory rates of subsidiaries 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 related to gains (losses) in defined benefit pension plans Other Provision for (recovery of) income taxes at effective rate 2017 $ 1,666 (39) (353) (1,032) 87 (581) 2,626 (95) 2,279 2016 $ 7,314 (10) (3,773) (1,015) 821 (3,453) (731) 185 (662) 31Clarke Inc. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS December 31, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) 8. INCOME TAXES (CONT’D) The significant components of the Company’s deferred income tax assets and liabilities are as follows: Year ended December 31, 2017 Intangible assets Marketable securities Fixed assets Long-term investments Employee future benefits Loss carry forwards Recognized as: Deferred income tax assets Deferred income tax liabilities Year ended December 31, 2016 Intangible assets Marketable securities Fixed assets Long-term investments Employee future benefits Loss carry forwards Recognized as: Deferred income tax assets Deferred income tax liabilities Deferred income tax asset (liability) beginning of year $ (195) 19 765 (59) (8,995) 7,364 (1,101) Recognized directly in shareholders’ equity $ ― ― ― ― (1,319) ― (1,319) Recognized directly in earnings $ (65) 1,930 (83) 25 7,356 (6,941) 2,222 Deferred income tax asset (liability) end of year $ (260) 1,949 682 (34) (2,958) 423 (198) 1,069 (2,170) (1,101) ― (1,319) (1,319) 351 1,871 2,222 1,420 (1,618) (198) Deferred income tax asset (liability) beginning of year $ (127) 99 568 (186) (9,744) 7,673 (1,717) Recognized directly in shareholders’ equity $ ― ― ― ― ― ― ― Recognized directly in earnings $ (68) (80) 197 127 749 (309) 616 Deferred income tax asset (liability) end of year $ (195) 19 765 (59) (8,995) 7,364 (1,101) 704 (2,421) (1,717) ― ― ― 365 251 616 1,069 (2,170) (1,101) 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, 2017, 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 $159,813 (2016 – $110,505). 32Clarke Inc. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS December 31, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) 8. INCOME TAXES (CONT’D) Certain deferred income tax assets have not been recognized. They are as follows: Marketable securities Capital loss carry forwards Total $ 790 135 925 As at December 31, 2017, the Company had non-capital losses carried forward for tax purposes of nil (2016 – $24,915) and capital losses carried forward for tax purposes of $2,939 (2016 – $940). 9. SHARE CAPITAL AND EARNINGS PER SHARE As at and for the year ended December 31 2017 2016 # of shares $ # 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 repurchased for cancellation Outstanding common shares, end of year Earnings per share 14,844,867 (243,900) 14,600,967 48,121 (791) 47,330 15,626,175 (781,308) 14,844,867 50,654 (2,533) 48,121 The following table reconciles the basic and diluted per share computations from continuing operations: 2017 Weighted average shares (in thousands) # 14,755 Per share amount $ 0.24 2016 Weighted average shares (in thousands) # 15,330 Per share amount $ 1.66 Earnings $ 25,406 Earnings $ 3,506 Basic earnings per share Common shares issued on assumed exercising of stock options Diluted earnings per share * *All potentially dilutive securities issued relate to stock options for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016. The stock options were dilutive for the year ended December 31, 2017 and anti-dilutive for the year ended December 31, 2016. 0.24 ― 3,506 61 14,816 ― 25,406 ― 15,330 ― 1.66 Normal course issuer bid (“NCIB”) In the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company purchased for cancellation 243,900 (2016 – 781,308) common shares under a NCIB at a cost of $2,738 (2016 – $7,226). The purchase price in excess of the historical book value of the shares in the amount of $1,947 (2016 – $4,693) has been charged to retained earnings and $791 (2016 – $2,533) has been charged to share capital. 33Clarke Inc. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS December 31, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) 9. SHARE CAPITAL AND EARNINGS PER SHARE (CONT’D) Dividends Dividends declared from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2017 were as follows: Declaration date August 3, 2017 Total Record date August 14, 2017 Payment date August 22, 2017 Dividends declared from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2016 were as follows: Declaration date February 23, 2016 June 10, 2016 May 5, 2016 Total Record date March 31, 2016 June 16, 2016 June 30, 2016 Payment date April 8, 2016 June 27, 2016 July 15, 2016 10. LONG-TERM DEBT Per share $ 2.00 2.00 Per share $ 0.10 2.00 0.10 2.20 Dividend $ 29,338 29,338 Dividend $ 1,563 31,249 1,543 34,355 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 minus 1.50% (3.80% as at December 31, 2017 and 3.20% as at December 31, 2016), secured by fixed charge against ferry, MV Trans-Saint-Laurent, machinery, tools, vehicles, and intellectual property, with a carrying value of $253. Less: current portion of long-term debt 2017 $ 2016 $ 1,075 (645) 430 1,719 (644) 1,075 The aggregate maturities of long-term debt for each of the next two twelve month periods are as follows: 2018 – $645, and 2019 – $430. 11. COMMITMENTS The Company has lease commitments related to properties for the following amounts: 2018 – $179 and 2019 – $64. Included in the annual lease commitments for 2018 is $49 owing to a company owned by the Company’s Executive Chairman and his immediate family member. 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. 34Clarke Inc. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS December 31, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) 12. SHARE-BASED PAYMENTS The Company has reserved 7.50% of its issued and outstanding common shares under a stock option plan for directors, officers and certain employees. As at December 31, 2017, there were 250,000 options outstanding and exercisable. The grant date was August 18, 2014 with an original exercise price of $12.19 per share. The current exercise price is $8.19 per share as a result of two modifications in 2017 of $2.00 per share each following special dividend payments. The options vest over a three year period and expire on August 7, 2021. There were no options exercised or cancelled during the year ended December 31, 2017 and 150,000 options were forfeited. The share-based payment expense included in the consolidated statements of earnings for the year ended December 31, 2017 was $298 (2016 – $147). The following table shows the assumptions used to determine the original share-based payments expense and the 2017 modifications, using the Black-Scholes option pricing model: Fair value per option granted Assumptions: Risk-free interest rate Expected dividend yield Expected volatility Expected time until exercise Expected forfeiture rate 13. OTHER INCOME (LOSS) Other income (loss) is comprised of the following: Foreign exchange losses Gains on disposition of fixed assets (note 6) Pension recovery (expense) (note 5) Other income (loss) Original issuance $3.40 First Modification $2.70 Second Modification $3.48 1.68% 3.65% 46.78% 7.0 years 9.50% 1.34% ― 29.13% 4.5 years 9.50% 1.70% ― 28.52% 4.0 years 9.50% 2017 $ (1,077) 2 (400) (1,475) 2016 $ (308) 360 200 252 The foreign exchange loss for the year ended December 31, 2017 is primarily the result of unrealized foreign exchange losses on foreign investments. The foreign exchange loss for the year ended December 31, 2016 is primarily the result of settling foreign exchange contracts at a loss. 14. SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION Income taxes paid Interest received Interest paid 2017 $ 50 980 52 2016 $ 155 1,799 76 35Clarke Inc. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS December 31, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) 14. SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION (CONT’D) Adjustments for items not involving cash Realized/unrealized gains on investments Deferred income tax recovery (note 8) Share-based payment expense (note 12) Unrealized foreign exchange losses (gains) Pension expense (recovery) (note 5) Gains on disposition of fixed assets (note 6) Depreciation and impairment (note 6) Loan receivable accretion Net changes in non-cash working capital balances Receivables (note 17) Income taxes receivable Prepaid expenses Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Income taxes payable 2017 $ (3,198) (2,222) 298 963 400 (2) 232 ― (3,529) 2017 $ 338 3,321 (8) (135) 1,284 4,800 2016 $ (20,239) (616) 147 (89) (200) (360) 427 (127) (21,057) 2016 $ 92 (133) (13) 551 (60) 437 All dividends received, interest and taxes are classified as cash flows from operating activities. 15. 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: (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (v) The Company is a party to rental agreements with a company owned by the Executive Chairman and his immediate family member. Included in ‘Expenses’ is rental and other property expenses of $107 (2016 – $134) under this agreement. The Company provides administrative and asset management services to two pension plans it sponsors. Included in ‘Revenue’ is $404 (2016 – $385) for services provided to the pension plans during the year. During the year, the Company provided consulting and tax services for Holloway and Terravest which are investments in associates of the Company. Included in ‘Revenue’ is $160 for the services provided. During the year, the Company sold marketable securities through the facilities of the Toronto Stock Exchange to the Master Trust. The sale was made for investment purposes and the Company received net proceeds of $5,894. During the prior year, the Company provided information technology services to related companies. Included in ‘Revenue’ was $455 and included in ‘Receivables’ was $49 for services provided. 36Clarke Inc. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS December 31, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) 15. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES (CONT’D) Key management consists of the directors and officers of the Company. The compensation accrued is as follows: Year ended December 31, 2017 Salary and fees Bonus Pension value Total 16. CAPITAL DISCLOSURES Board of directors $ 80 ― 897 977 Officers $ 473 400 9 882 Total $ 553 400 906 1,859 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 other than the special dividend payment. The Company has a demand revolving loan of $20,000 secured by marketable securities. The interest rate for the demand revolving loan was 3.95% at December 31, 2017 (2016 – 3.45%). The Company had drawn nil on the demand revolving loan at December 31, 2017 and 2016. The short-term loan facility is 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). For the year ended December 31, 2017, 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. Due to an internal reorganization of these securities that ended subsequent to December 31, 2017, the Company’s access to the facility at December 31, 2017 was nil. The reorganization was completed during the first quarter of 2018, and the Company has regained access to the $20,000 limit. 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. The Company also maintains several investment accounts with various brokers. Under one broker arrangement, the Company has 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 3.20% at December 31, 2017 (2016 – 2.70%). 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 4.00% at December 31, 2017 (2016 – 3.25%). The Company had drawn nil on the Canadian dollar and US dollar facilities, respectively, at December 31, 2017 and 2016. 17. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS The Company’s financial instruments at December 31, 2017 and 2016 included cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities, receivables, long-term investments, accounts payable and accrued liabilities and long-term debt. The Company’s financial instruments are classified as follows: Loans and receivables Cash and cash equivalents Receivables Fair value through profit or loss Marketable securities Long-term investments Other liabilities Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Long-term debt 37Clarke Inc. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS December 31, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) 17. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (CONT’D) The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents, receivables 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, 2017 and 2016. 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 or 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. 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. 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 Long-term investments Total 119,419 1,843 121,262 Fair Value at December 31, 2017 Level 1 Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets 119,419 ― 119,419 Level 2 Significant other observable inputs ― 1,843 1,843 Level 3 Significant unobservable inputs ― ― ― 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. 38Clarke Inc. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS December 31, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) 17. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (CONT’D) 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 consolidated statements 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. The table below shows the impact to the Company on consolidated net 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 $ 119,419 119,419 Price change % 10% increase 10% decrease Estimated fair value after price change $ 131,361 107,477 After-tax impact on net income $ 10,222 (10,222) 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 may enter into interest rate swap transactions where considered necessary to further manage interest rate exposure. At December 31, 2017, the Company had not entered into any interest rate swap transactions (2016 – nil). At December 31, 2017, the after-tax net income effect of a 1% change in interest rates would have been $8 on floating rate debt of $1,075. 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 investments throughout North America, and as such is exposed to movements in the US/Canadian exchange rate. At December 31, 2017, the effect of a 20% change in the US/Canadian exchange rate on after-tax consolidated net income would have been $2,232 based on a US net asset balance of US$12,496. 39Clarke Inc. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS December 31, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts) 17. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (CONT’D) The Company manages its exposure to foreign exchange risk by entering into foreign exchange contracts. At December 31, 2017, the Company did not have any forward contracts outstanding to sell US dollars. Unrealized foreign exchange gains of nil have been included in receivables on the consolidated statements of financial position as at December 31, 2017 (2016 – $4). Unrealized foreign exchange losses of $4 have been recognized in other income in the consolidated statements of earnings for the year ended December 31, 2017 (2016 – $716). 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. At December 31, 2017, the Company had cash of $20,773 and available unused facilities totalling $6,593. The following table shows the timing of expected payments of current liabilities and long-term debt: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Long-term debt Credit risk Due within 1 year $ 1,440 645 2,085 1 to 3 years $ ― 430 430 3 to 5 years $ ― ― ― 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 believes there are no significant concentrations of credit risk due to the low level of trade receivables, cash balances and available facilities. The maximum exposure to credit risk associated with financial assets is the total carrying value of those receivables. 18. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS On December 7, 2017, the Company announced its intention to commence a substantial issuer bid pursuant to which it would offer to purchase up to 1,250,000 of its outstanding common shares (or such greater number of common shares that the Company may determine it will take up and pay for) at a purchase price of $10.50 per share. Subsequent to December 31, 2017, the Company announced that a total of 1,851,579 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 $19,442. 40Clarke Inc. 9th Floor 6009 Quinpool Road Halifax, Nova Scotia B3K 5J7 www.clarkeinc.com 

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