Gunsynd plc
(Formerly Evocutis plc)
Annual Report and Accounts 2017
Company Number: 05656604
1
CONTENTS
COMPANY INFORMATION ........................................................................................................................................ 3
CHAIRMAN’S REPORT (INCORPORATING THE STRATEGIC REVIEW) ....................................................................... 4
DIRECTORS’ REPORT ................................................................................................................................................. 7
INFORMATION ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS ..................................................................................................... 11
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ........................................................................................................................................ 15
STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2017 ........................................... 15
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT 31 JULY 2017 ............................................................................... 16
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2017 ..................................................... 17
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2017 ................................................................. 18
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ........................................................................................................... 19
2
COMPANY INFORMATION
DIRECTORS
REGISTERED OFFICE
(Executive Chairman)
(Executive Director)
(Non-Executive Director)
Hamish Harris
Donald Strang
David Ormerod
2 Chapel Court
London
SE1 1HH
COMPANY WEBSITE
www.gunsynd.com
COMPANY REGISTRATION NUMBER
05656604 (England and Wales)
NOMINATED ADVISER AND JOINT BROKER
JOINT BROKER
AUDITOR
SOLICITOR
BANKERS
REGISTRAR
Cairn Financial Advisers LLP
Cheyne House, Crown Court
62-63 Cheapside
London
EC2V 6AX
Peterhouse Corporate Finance
3rd floor, New Liverpool House
15 Eldon Street
London
EC2M 7LD
Chapman Davis LLP
Chartered Accountants and Registered Auditor
2 Chapel Court
London
SE1 1HH
Hill Dickinson LLP
The Broadgate Tower
20 Primrose Street
London
EC2A 2EW
Barclays Bank plc
1 Churchill Place
London
E14 5HP
Neville Registrars Limited
Neville House
18 Laurel Lane
Halesowen
B63 3DA
3
CHAIRMAN’S REPORT (INCORPORATING THE STRATEGIC REVIEW)
I am pleased to present the annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 July 2017.
Finance Review
The Company made a profit for the year of £492,000 (2016: loss of £564,000) after taxation. This profit originated from
realised gains on disposals of its listed investments of £408,000 along with market value revaluation gains of £417,000 (2016:
losses £54,000). The Company had net assets of £3,266,000 (2016: £1,307,000) including cash balances of £372,000 (2016:
£358,000) at 31 July 2017.
During the period, the Company announced it had raised approximately £1.55 million through the issue of approximately
3.65 billion new shares at an average placing price of 0.0425 pence per share. The funds have been used to make further
investments and for general working capital purposes.
Review of Investments
The reporting period has been one of activity and pleasing results for the Company. We have substantially increased our
investment portfolio with new investments in Oyster Oil and Gas and United Oil and Gas.
The Company has divested the majority of its stakes held in Zenith and Alba and completely disposed of legacy positions in
Integumen and Georgia Mining and a recent investment in Pires Investments.
Oyster Oil and Gas Limited (“Oyster”)
Oyster is an international energy group focused on oil and gas exploration and production activities in underexplored
hydrocarbon basins. Oyster currently operates 4 blocks in the Republic of Djibouti (100% interest); 3 blocks are located
onshore and 1 block offshore, also the sole interest holder in 1 onshore block in the Republic of Madagascar.
In February 2017, Oyster announced that, following negotiations with the Office des Mines Nationales et des Industries
Stratégiques, agreement had been reached to provide a 2 year extension to the current exploration phase of the Production
Sharing Contract (“PSC)” to July 2019. The technical work program for 2017 has also been defined, which will include field
work and detailed surveys to improve the structural definition and drilling locations on the prospects. Oyster has announced
its intention to float in AIM in 2017 and has appointed advisers. As at today’s date Gunsynd holds 3,062,500 shares in Oyster,
and also holds a convertible loan for a principal amount of approximately £250,000, as well as 216,875 warrants to subscribe
for new shares of Oyster, at a placing price of CAD0.55 per Oyster share.
United Oil and Gas Limited (“UOG”)
UOG is an independent oil & gas start-up established in 2015 by a former Tullow Oil team. Its strategy is to acquire assets
where the management team's experience can drive near-term activity and unlock previously untapped value. Two deals
have been completed since August 2016, providing UOG with a material stake in two licences: PL090 onshore UK, and Podere
Gallina onshore Italy. UOG is listed on the main market of the London Stock Exchange by way of a standard listing. As at
today’s date Gunsynd holds 6,058,599 shares in UOG.
Horse Hill Developments Limited (“HHDL”)
The Company currently owns a 2% direct interest in Horse Hill Developments Limited. HHDL is a special purpose company
that owns a 65% participating interest and operatorship of Licence PEDL137 and the adjacent Licence PEDL246 in the UK
Weald Basin.
As reported in March 2016, the final total aggregate stable dry oil flow rate from two Kimmeridge limestones plus the
overlying Portland sandstone in HH-1 stands at 1,688 barrels of oil per day (“bopd”), a UK record for an onshore discovery
well. Over the 30 to 90 hour flow periods from each of the 3 zones in HH-1, no clear indication of any reservoir pressure
depletion was observed.
During the reporting period it was announced that Xodus oil & gas consultants had upgraded the Portland sandstone P50 Oil
in Place (OIP) to 32 million barrels, a 53 per cent increase on previous calculations. The Company also announced that it had
been informed by the Operator, HHDL, that the Oil & Gas Authority (“OGA”) had consented to extend the PEDL137 and
PEDL246 licences until 2021. The Company was informed by HHDL that it understood that its planning application for long
term production testing and further appraisal drilling would be determined at a scheduled Surrey County Council planning
meeting to be held during October 2017.
4
CHAIRMAN’S REPORT (INCORPORATING THE STRATEGIC REVIEW) - CONTINUED
Sunshine Minerals (“Sunshine”)
Gunsynd holds a 10% stake in this company (and a loan note convertible into a further 10%) which is a nickel and bauxite
exploration company focussing on the Solomon Islands. Whilst the bauxite prospecting licence has been granted, the grant
of the prospecting licence for the Jejevo nickel licence is still under consideration by the government. The nickel price has
moved meaningfully since our investment which bodes rather well for the future subject to the licence being granted.
Brazil Tungsten Holdings Limited (“BTHL”)
Production decreased in the last quarter as the mine focused on the development of the incline joining Feijão Bravo to Central
497 Level (“Central”). Once completed, ore production from Central will be taken to the surface via mechanised equipment
(tracked loaders and bobcats) which will significantly increase daily ROM ore production and extraction. September’s
production was 12 tonnes of concentrate which was an improvement over the previous months (April through to June being
in the range of 7-10 tonnes). Thirteen tonnes of concentrate where shipped to a customer on October 4th for a price of
US$245/mtu which is a 50% increase on the prior shipment in July. Improved mechanisation, higher tungsten prices and the
prospect of government approvals for the Tarantula mine should hopefully translate into much improved prospects for this
investment.
Alba Mineral Resources plc (“Alba”)
The investment thesis for Alba rest on its stake in HHDL (as mentioned above) and its stake in the Brockham oil licence. Whilst
we still hold a position we divested a substantial part of our holding at a very good profit and with last sales at a price well
above today’s share price.
Zenith Energy Limited (“Zenith”)
Despite holding much promise Zenith has underperformed due to lack of operational progress and perceptions of a
particularly poor PR strategy. Gunsynd saw the issues arising early and coupled with warning signs such as the CFO abruptly
departing, we decided to divest a substantial portion of our investment at a rather decent profit which proved to be the
entirely correct thing to do. As at today’s date Gunsynd holds 383,334 shares in Zenith.
Investing Policy
The Company's investing policy, as approved by shareholders on 12 September 2014. Is set out below in full:
"The Company’s Investing Policy is to invest in and/or acquire companies and/or projects within the natural resources sector
which the Board considers, in its opinion, has potential for growth. The Company will consider opportunities in all sectors as
they arise if the Board considers there is an opportunity to generate potential value for Shareholders. The geographical focus
will primarily be Europe, however, investments may also be considered in other regions to the extent that the Board considers
that valuable opportunities exist and potential value can be achieved.
Where appropriate, the New Board may seek to invest in businesses where it may influence the business at a board level,
add their expertise to the management of the business, and utilise their industry relationships and access to finance.
The Company's interests in a proposed investment and/or acquisition may range from a minority position to full ownership
and may comprise one investment or multiple investments. The proposed investments may be in either quoted or unquoted
companies; be made by direct acquisitions or farm-ins; and may be in companies, partnerships, earn-in joint ventures, debt
or other loan structures, joint ventures or direct or indirect interests in assets or projects. The New Board may focus on
investments where intrinsic value may be achieved from the restructuring of investments or merger of complementary
businesses.
The New Board expects that investments will typically be held for the medium to long term, although short term disposal of
assets cannot be ruled out if there is an opportunity to generate a return for Shareholders. The New Board will place no
minimum or maximum limit on the length of time that any investment may be held. The Company may be both an active
and a passive investor depending on the nature of the individual investment.
There is no limit on the number of projects into which the Company may invest, and the Company's financial resources may
be invested in a number of propositions or in just one investment, which may be deemed to be a reverse takeover under the
AIM Rules. The New Board intends to mitigate risk by appropriate due diligence and transaction analysis. Any transaction
constituting a reverse takeover under the AIM Rules will also require Shareholder approval. The New Board considers that,
as investments are made and new investment opportunities arise, further funding of the Company may also be required.
5
CHAIRMAN’S REPORT (INCORPORATING THE STRATEGIC REVIEW) - CONTINUED
Where the Company builds a portfolio of related assets, it is possible that there may be cross holdings between such assets.
The Company does not currently intend to fund any investments with debt or other borrowings but may do so if appropriate.
Investments in early stage assets are expected to be mainly in the form of equity, with debt potentially being raised later to
fund the development of such assets. Investments in later stage assets are more likely to include an element of debt to
equity gearing. The New Board may also offer New Ordinary Shares by way of consideration as well as cash, thereby helping
to preserve the Company's cash for working capital and as a reserve against unforeseen contingencies including, for example,
delays in collecting accounts receivable, unexpected changes in the economic environment and operational problems.
Investments may be made in all types of assets and there will be no investment restrictions on the type of investment that
the Company might make or the type of opportunity that may be considered.
The Company may consider possible opportunities anywhere in the world.
The New Board will conduct initial due diligence appraisals of potential business or projects and, where they believe further
investigation is warranted, intend to appoint appropriately qualified persons to assist. The New Board believes its expertise
will enable it to determine quickly which opportunities could be viable and so progress quickly to formal due diligence. The
Company will not have a separate investment manager.”
In the recent past the regulatory landscape has changed in that early stage pre-resource mining, oil and gas deals are now,
we believe, looked upon less favourably by exchanges globally. This being the stage of the investment cycle offering the
greatest potential returns to investors means that we have to adapt to changed circumstances. Our last investments have
performed strongly. Two of these have been due to regulatory arbitrage, i.e. the prospect of TSX companies dual listing on
LSE. Sunshine, whilst very early stage, has seen us take an active investment approach. It is this sort of investing that I believe
holds the key to creating substantial shareholder value in the small cap space. Passive investment is extraordinarily hard in
this space which is why we believe so few institutional investors invest in it. Accordingly, going forward and in line with our
investment policy, we will also look at sectors other than natural resources where we are able to invest in a manner that
provides not only potential for very high risk-adjusted rewards but also affords Gunsynd the opportunity to help the investee
company maximise its return to shareholders.
Outlook
Whilst unfortunately not yet reflected in the share price Gunsynd is in a far better shape than it was this time last year. This,
however, is merely the start. We intend to be very active in the next twelve months.
The Board would like to take this opportunity to thank our shareholders for their continued support and I look forward to
reporting further progress over the next period and beyond.
Hamish Harris
Executive Chairman
12 October 2017
6
DIRECTORS’ REPORT
The directors present their annual report on the Company and its audited financial statements for the year ended 31 July
2017.
Principal activity
As at 31 July 2017 the principal activity of the Company is that of investing by seeking to acquire companies and/or projects
within the natural resources sector which the Board considers, in its opinion, have potential for growth. The Company will
consider opportunities in all relevant sectors as they arise if the Board considers there is an opportunity to generate potential
value for Shareholders. The geographical focus will primarily be in Europe, however, investments may also be considered in
other regions to the extent that the Board considers that valuable opportunities exist and potential value can be achieved.
Results and dividends
The income statement is set out on page 15 and has been prepared in Sterling, the functional and reporting currency of the
Company.
The Company’s net profit after taxation attributable to equity holders of Gunsynd plc for the year was £492,000 (2016:
restated loss £564,000 loss).
No dividends have been paid or proposed.
Review of the business and future developments
A full review of the Company’s performance, financial position and future prospects is given in the Chairman’s Report
(Incorporating the Strategic Review).
Directors and their interests
The Directors who served during the year were:
H Harris
D Strang
D Ormerod - appointed 30 March 2017
C Gordon - resigned 16 June 2017
The interests of the serving Directors at 31 July 2017 or at date of resignation, in the ordinary share capital of the Company
(all beneficially held) were as follows
Hamish Harris
Donald Strang
David Ormerod
Christopher Gordon
31 July 2017
No.
48,725,490
57,058,823
-
-
31 July 2016
No.
1,666,667
10,000,000
-
-
In addition to the issued shares shown above, at the current date, Hamish Harris and Donald Strang each holds options over
75,000,000 ordinary shares, exercisable at 0.05p at any time up to 30 June 2022.
Directors’ remuneration
The remuneration of the Executive Directors paid during the year was fixed on the recommendation of the Remuneration
Committee. The remuneration of the Non-executive Director paid during the year was fixed on the recommendation of the
Executive Directors. This has been achieved acknowledging the need to maximise the effectiveness of the Company’s limited
resources during the year.
Fees paid to each Director for the year ended 31 July 2017 are set out in note 6 to the financial statements.
7
DIRECTORS’ REPORT - CONTINUED
Substantial shareholdings
Other than as summarised below, the Directors have not been advised of any individual interest, or group or interests held
by persons acting together, which at 11 October 2017 exceeded 3% of the Company’s issued share capital.
Number of ordinary
shares held
% of issued
share capital
862,921,931
542,602,203
410,836,283
382,700,829
230,000,000
224,414,159
206,564,353
198,389,229
196,944,463
161,494,637
17.67%
11.11%
8.41%
7.84%
4.71%
4.60%
4.23%
4.06%
4.03%
3.31%
Beaufort Nominees Limited
JIM Nominees Limited
Barclayshare Nominees
Hargreaves Lansdown (Nominees) Limited
Neil Scott
HSDL Nominees Limited
TD Direct Investing Nominees (Europe) Limited - SMKTISAS
Investor Nominees Limited
TD Direct Investing Nominees (Europe) Limited - SMKTNOMS
Vidacos Nominees Limited
Employees
The Company has only one direct employee.
Creditor payment policy
The policy of the Company is to:
(a)
Agree the terms of payment with suppliers when settling the terms of each transaction;
(b)
Ensure that suppliers are made aware of the terms of payment by inclusion of the relevant terms in contracts; and
(c)
Pay in accordance with its contractual and other legal obligations provided suppliers comply with the terms and
conditions of supply.
Directors’ liability
As permitted by the Companies Act 2006, the Company has purchased insurance cover for the Directors against liabilities in
relation to the Company.
Charitable donations
During the period, the Company made no charitable donations (2016 - £Nil).
Financial reporting
The Board has ultimate responsibility for the preparation of the annual audited accounts. A detailed review of the
performance of the Company is contained in the Chairman’s report (incorporating Strategic Review). Presenting the
Chairman’s report (incorporating Strategic Review) and Director’s Report, the Board seeks to present a balanced and
understandable assessment of the Company’s position, performance and prospects.
Internal control
A key objective of the Directors is to safeguard the value of the business and assets of the Company. This requires the
development of relevant policies and appropriate internal controls to ensure proper management of the Company’s
resources and the identification and mitigation of risks which might serve to undermine them. The Directors are responsible
for the Company’s system of internal control and for reviewing its effectiveness. It should, however, be recognised that such
a system can provide only reasonable and not absolute assurance against material misstatement or loss.
8
DIRECTORS’ REPORT - CONTINUED
Events after the reporting period
Events after the reporting period are set out in note 22 to the financial statements.
Auditor
The Directors will place a resolution before the Annual General Meeting to re-appoint Chapman Davis LLP as auditor for the
coming year.
Risk management
The directors have in place a process of regularly reviewing risks to the business and monitoring associated controls, actions
and contingency plans.
The Company’s financial risk management policies are set out in Note 18.
Website publication
The directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the company’s website. Legislation in the United Kingdom
governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.
Corporate Governance
Audit and Remuneration Committees have been established and comprise Hamish Harris (Chairman) and David Ormerod
(audit) and Hamish Harris (Chairman) and David Ormerod (remuneration).
The role of the Remuneration Committee is to review the performance of the executive Directors and to set the scale and
structure of their remuneration, including bonus arrangements. The Remuneration Committee also administers and
establishes performance targets for the Company’s employee share schemes and executive incentive schemes for key
management. In exercising this role, the terms of reference of the Remuneration Committee require it to comply with the
Code of Best Practice published in the Combined Code.
The Audit Committee is responsible for making recommendations to the Board on the appointment of the auditors and the
audit fee, and receives and reviews reports from management and the Company’s auditors on the internal control systems
in use throughout the Company and its accounting policies.
Going concern
The financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, notwithstanding the profit for the year ended 31 July
2017. This basis assumes that the company will have sufficient funding to enable it to continue to operate for the foreseeable
future and the Directors have taken steps to ensure that they believe that the going concern basis of preparation remains
appropriate.
The Company made a profit for the year of £492,000 (2016: loss £564,000) after taxation. The Company had net assets of
£3,266,000 (2016: £1,307,000) and cash balances of £372,000 (2016: £358,000) at 31 July 2017. The Directors have prepared
financial forecasts which cover a period of at least 12 months from date that these financial statements are approved to 31
October 2018. These forecasts show that the Company expects to have sufficient financial resources to continue to operate
as a going concern.
The cost structure of the Company comprises a high proportion of discretionary spend and therefore in the event that cash
flows become constrained, costs can be quickly reduced to enable the Company to operate within its available funding. As a
junior investment exploration company, the Directors are aware that the Company must go to the marketplace to raise cash
to meet its investment plans, and/or consider liquidation of its investments and/or assets as is deemed appropriate, and the
Company demonstrated its ability to raise further cash by way of completing placings totalling £1,550,000 during the year
ended 31 July 2017. Therefore they are confident that existing cash balances, along with the any new funding would be
adequate to ensure that costs can be covered.
Consequently, the Directors have a reasonable expectation that the Company has adequate resources to continue to operate
for the foreseeable future and that it remains appropriate for the financial statements to be prepared on a going concern
basis.
9
DIRECTORS’ REPORT - CONTINUED
Statement of directors’ responsibilities
Company law requires the directors to keep reliable accounting records which correctly explain the transactions of the
Company, enable the financial position of the Company to be determined with reasonable accuracy at any time and allow
financial statements to be prepared. The shareholders have resolved, in accordance with the Companies Act 2006 and the
Articles of Association, that the directors prepare financial statements for each financial period which give a true and fair view
of the state of affairs of the Company and of its profit or loss for that period.
On this basis the directors have elected to prepare the financial statements for the Company in accordance with International
Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) as adopted by the European Union.
International Accounting Standard 1 requires that accounts present fairly for each financial period the company’s financial
position, financial performance and cash flows. This requires the faithful representation of the effects of transactions, other
events and conditions in accordance with the definitions and recognition criteria for assets, liabilities, income and expenses
set out in the International Accounting Standards Board’s ‘Framework for the preparation and presentation of accounts’. In
virtually all circumstances, a fair presentation will be achieved by compliance with all applicable IFRSs. However, directors
are also required to:
select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
state whether applicable IFRSs have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the
accounts; and
prepare the accounts on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the company will continue in
business.
The directors are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the
financial position of the company and to enable them to ensure that the accounts comply with the Companies Act 2006.
They have a general responsibility for taking such steps as are reasonably open to them to safeguard the assets of the
company and to prevent and detect fraud and other irregularities. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the
preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.
Website publication
The directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial information included on the
Company’s website.
Statement of disclosure to auditors
So far as the directors are aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the Company’s auditors are unaware.
Additionally, the directors have taken all the necessary steps that they ought to have taken as directors in order to make
themselves aware of all relevant audit information and to establish that the Company’s auditors are aware of that
information.
By order of the Board of Directors
Hamish Harris
Director
12 October 2017
10
INFORMATION ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Hamish Harris, Executive Chairman
Hamish holds a Bachelor of Commerce and has held positions within market risk management at a number of financial
institutions including Nomura Group, Deutsche Bank AG and BZW plc in Singapore, Hong Kong and London. Hamish is also a
Director on a number of AIM listed companies. Hamish is a member of both the Audit and Remuneration committees.
Donald Strang – Executive Director
Donald is a member of the Australian Institute of Chartered Accountants and has been in business over 20 years, holding
senior financial and management positions in both publicly listed and private enterprises in Australia, Europe and Africa. He
has considerable corporate and international expertise and over the past decade has focussed on mining and exploration
activities. He is currently the Finance Director of Cadence Minerals plc and a Director of Doriemus plc, Primorus Investments
plc, and Solo Oil plc.
David Ormerod – Non-Executive Director
David is an experienced oil and gas professional who has been involved in public companies at a management and board
level for thirty years. He has experience with operations in Africa, Asia, US, South America and Australia where he has been
involved in business development, initial drilling through to field development. He is a member of the AAPG, SEG and a fellow
of the Royal Geological Society. He adds technical governance and strategy at a critical time in the development of the
Company. David is a member of both the Audit and Remuneration committees.
11
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF GUNSYND PLC
OPINION
We have audited the financial statements of Gunsynd Plc (the ‘Company’) for the year ended 31 July 2017 which comprise
the statement of comprehensive income, the statement of financial position, the statement of changes in equity, the
statement of cash flows and notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies.
The financial reporting framework that has been applied in the preparation of the company financial statements is applicable
law and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) as adopted by the European Union.
In our opinion:
• the financial statements give a true and fair view of the state of the Company’s affairs as at 31 July 2017 and of the
Company’s profits for the year then ended;
• the Company financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with IFRSs as adopted by the European
Union;
• the financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.
BASIS FOR OPINION
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our
responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial
statements section of our report. We are independent of the Group in accordance with the ethical requirements that are
relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard as applied to listed entities,
and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit
evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.
CONCLUSIONS RELATING TO GOING CONCERN
We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the ISAs (UK) require us to report to you
where:
• the directors’ use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is not
appropriate; or
• the directors have not disclosed in the financial statements any identified material uncertainties that may cast significant
doubt about the company’s ability to continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting for a period of at least
twelve months from the date when the financial statements are authorised for issue.
KEY AUDIT MATTERS
Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgement, were of most significance in our audit of the financial
report of the current period. These matters were addressed in the context of our audit of the financial report as a whole,
and in forming our opinion thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters. We have determined the
matters described below to be the key audit matters to be communicated in our report.
CARRYING VALUE OF AVAILABLE FOR SALE INVESTMENTS
The Company’s Available for Sale Investment assets (‘AFS assets’) represent the most significant asset on its statement of
financial position totalling £2.6m as at 31 July 2017, of which unlisted investments represented £1.4m of the total AFS assets.
The carrying value of AFS assets represents significant assets of the company and assessing whether facts or circumstances
exist to suggest that impairment indicators were present, and if present, whether the carrying amount of these asset may
exceed its recoverable amount was considered key to the audit. This assessment involves significant judgement applied by
management to the Company’s unlisted investments.
We considered it necessary to assess whether facts and circumstances existed to suggest that impairment indicators were
present, and if present, whether the carrying amount of these assets may exceed its recoverable amount.
12
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF GUNSYND PLC - CONTINUED
How the Matter was addressed in the Audit
The procedures included, but were not limited to, assessing and evaluating management's assessment of whether any
impairment indicators have been identified across the Company’s AFS assets, the indicators being:
• Expiring, or imminently expiring, rights to licences held by the investee Companies
• A lack of flow of information in regards to the investee companies exploration activities and/or production
• Discontinuation of, or a plan to discontinue, exploration activities in the areas of interest by the Investee Companies
• Sufficient data exists to suggest carrying value of exploration and evaluation assets is unlikely be recovered in full through
successful development or sale by the Investee Companies.
We also reviewed Stock Exchange RNS announcements and Board meeting minutes for the year and subsequent to year end
for activity to identify any indicators of impairment.
We also assessed the disclosures included in the financial statements.
OTHER INFORMATION
The Directors are responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the information included in the
annual report, other than the financial statements and our auditor’s report thereon. Our opinion on the financial statements
does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express
any form of assurance conclusion thereon.
In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so,
consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained
in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material
misstatements, we are required to determine whether there is a material misstatement in the financial statements or a
material misstatement of the other information. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a
material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this
regard.
OPINIONS ON OTHER MATTERS PRESCRIBED BY THE COMPANIES ACT 2006
In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit:
• the information given in the Strategic Report and the Directors’ report for the financial year for which the financial
statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and
• the Strategic Report and the Directors’ report have been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements.
MATTERS ON WHICH WE ARE REQUIRED TO REPORT BY EXCEPTION
In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the Company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we
have not identified material misstatements in the Strategic report or the Directors’ report.
We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Companies Act 2006 requires us to
report to you if, in our opinion:
• adequate accounting records have not been kept by the Company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been
received from branches not visited by us; or
• the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or
• certain disclosures of Directors’ remuneration specified by law are not made; or
• we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.
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INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF GUNSYND PLC - CONTINUED
RESPONSIBILITIES OF DIRECTORS
As explained more fully in the Directors’ responsibilities statement, the Directors are responsible for the preparation of the
financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the Directors
determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether
due to fraud or error.
In preparing the financial statements, the Directors are responsible for assessing the Company’s ability to continue as a going
concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless
the Directors either intend to liquidate the Company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.
AUDITOR’S RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE AUDIT OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
This report is made solely to the Company’s members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies
Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the Company’s members those matters we are
required to state to them in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not
accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Company and the Company’s members as a body, for our audit
work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material
misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable
assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) or ISA
IAASB will always detect a material misstatement when it exists.
Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could
reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.
A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting
Council’s website at: www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor’s report.
Keith Fulton
(Senior Statutory Auditor)
For and on behalf of Chapman Davis LLP, Statutory Auditor
London
Chapman Davis LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales (with registered number OC306037).
12 October 2017
14
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2017
Continuing operations
Income
Unrealised profit/(loss) on available for sale assets
Realised Profit on available for sale assets
Administrative expenses
Salaries and other staff costs
Other costs
Share based payment charge
Total administrative expenses
(Impairment) of available-for-sale asset
Other income
Finance income
Profit/(loss) before tax
Taxation
Profit/(loss) for the period attributable to equity shareholders of
the parent Company
Other comprehensive (expenditure)/income for the period net of
tax
Total comprehensive income/(expenditure) for the period
Earnings/(loss) per ordinary share
Basic (pence)
Diluted (pence)
Note
6
8
19
11
7
9
10
2017
£000
417
408
825
(91)
(261)
-
(352)
-
18
1
492
-
492
-
492
0.017
0.015
2016
(restated)
£000
(54)
-
(54)
(23)
(186)
-
(209)
(301)
-
-
(564)
-
(564)
-
(564)
(0.060)
(0.060)
The notes form an integral part of these financial statements.
15
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT 31 JULY 2017
ASSETS
Non-current assets
Available-for-sale investments
Total non-current assets
Current assets
Trade and other receivables
Cash and cash equivalents
Total current assets
Total assets
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables
Total current liabilities
Total liabilities
Net assets
Equity attributable to equity holders of the company
Ordinary share capital
Deferred share capital
Share premium reserve
Share based payments reserve
Retained earnings
Total equity
Note
11
12
17
13
14
14
14
2017
£000
2,585
2,585
486
372
858
2016
(restated)
£000
1,009
1,009
102
358
460
3,443
1,469
(177)
(177)
(177)
3,266
489
1,729
10,540
174
(9,666)
3,266
(162)
(162)
(162)
1,307
123
1,729
9,439
174
(10,158)
1,307
The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Board of Directors on 12 October 2017 and were
signed on its behalf by:
Hamish Harris
Chairman
Company number: 05656604
Donald Strang
Director
The notes form an integral part of these financial statements.
16
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2017
At 1 August 2015 (restated)
(Loss) for the year
Total comprehensive loss for
the period
Transactions with owners:
Issue of share capital
Share issue costs
At 31 July 2016 (restated)
Profit for the year
Total comprehensive income
for the period
Transactions with owners:
Issue of share capital
Share issue costs
At 31 July 2017
Share
capital
£000
73
-
-
Deferred
Share
capital
£ 000
1,729
-
Share Share-based
payments
reserve
£000
174
-
premium
reserve
£000
9,186
-
Retained
earnings
£000
(9,594)
(564)
-
-
-
(564)
50
-
123
-
-
366
-
489
-
-
1,729
-
-
-
-
1,729
300
(47)
9,439
-
-
1,185
(84)
10,540
-
-
174
-
-
-
-
174
-
-
(10,158)
492
492
-
-
(9,666)
Total
£000
1,568
(564)
(564)
350
(47)
1,307
492
492
1,551
(84)
3,266
Details of the nature of each component of equity are set out in Notes 15
The notes form an integral part of these financial statements.
17
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 JULY 2017
Cash flow from operating activities
Profit/(loss) after tax
Tax on losses
Other income
Finance income net of finance costs
Unrealised Revaluation of AFS assets
(Profit)/loss on sale of AFS Asset
Impairment/(reversal) of available-for-sale asset
Changes in working capital:
(Increase) in trade and other receivables
Increase in trade and other payables
Cash outflow from operations
Taxation received
Net cash outflow from operating activities
Cash flow from investing activities
Payments for investments in AFS assets
Disposal proceeds from sale of AFS Asset
Finance income
Net cash (outflow) from investing activities
Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds on issuing of ordinary shares
Cost of issue of ordinary shares
Net cash inflow from financing activities
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year
Note
11
11
11
14
17
17
2017
£000
492
-
(15)
(1)
(417)
(408)
-
6
15
(328)
-
(328)
(1,873)
1,137
1
(735)
1,161
(84)
1,077
14
358
372
2016
(restated)
£000
(564)
-
-
-
54
-
301
(51)
8
(252)
-
(252)
(145)
-
-
(145)
350
(47)
303
(94)
452
358
The notes form an integral part of these financial statements.
18
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1 Presentation of the financial statements
Description of business & Investing Policy
Gunsynd plc (formerly Evocutis plc) is public limited company domiciled in the United Kingdom. On 2 August 2016, the
Company changed its name to Gunsynd Plc from Evocutis Plc, by statutory notice of change filed at Companies House. The
Company’s registered office is 2 Chapel Court, London SE1 1HH.
The Company's Investing Policy is to invest in and/or acquire companies and/or projects within the natural resources sector
which the Board considers, in its opinion, has potential for growth. The Company will consider opportunities in all sectors as
they arise if the Board considers there is an opportunity to generate potential value for Shareholders. The geographical focus
will primarily be in Europe, however, investments may also be considered in other regions to the extent that the Board
considers that valuable opportunities exist and potential value can be achieved.
Where appropriate, the Board may seek to invest in businesses where it may influence the business at a board level, add their
expertise to the management of the business, and utilise their industry relationships and access to finance.
The Company’s interests in a investment and/or acquisition may range from a minority position to full ownership and may
comprise one investment or multiple investments. The investments may be in either quoted or unquoted companies; be
made by direct acquisitions or farm-ins; and may be in companies, partnerships, earn-in joint ventures, debt or other loan
structures, joint ventures or direct or indirect interests in assets or projects. The Board may focus on investments where
intrinsic value may be achieved from the restructuring of investments or merger of complementary businesses.
The Board expects that investments will typically be held for the medium to long term, although short term disposal of assets
cannot be ruled out if there is an opportunity to generate a return for Shareholders. The Board will place no minimum or
maximum limit on the length of time that any investment may be held. The Company may be both an active and a passive
investor depending on the nature of the individual investment. There is no limit on the number of projects into which the
Company may invest, and the Company’s financial resources may be invested in a number of propositions or in just one
investment, which may be deemed to be a reverse takeover under the AIM Rules. The Board intends to mitigate risk by
appropriate due diligence and transaction analysis. Any transaction constituting a reverse takeover under the AIM Rules will
also require Shareholder approval. The Board considers that, as investments are made and new investment opportunities
arise, further funding of the Company may also be required.
Where the Company builds a portfolio of related assets, it is possible that there may be cross holdings between such assets.
The Company does not currently intend to fund any investments with debt or other borrowings but may do so if appropriate.
Investments in early stage assets are expected to be mainly in the form of equity, with debt potentially being raised later to
fund the development of such assets. Investments in later stage assets are more likely to include an element of debt to equity
gearing. The Board may also offer New Ordinary Shares by way of consideration as well as cash, thereby helping to preserve
the Company’s cash for working capital and as a reserve against unforeseen contingencies including, for example, delays in
collecting accounts receivable, unexpected changes in the economic environment and operational problems.
Investments may be made in all types of assets and there will be no investment restrictions on the type of investment that
the Company might make or the type of opportunity that may be considered. The Company may consider possible
opportunities anywhere in the world.
The Board will conduct initial due diligence appraisals of potential business or projects and, where they believe further
investigation is warranted, intend to appoint appropriately qualified persons to assist. The Board believes its expertise will
enable it to determine quickly which opportunities could be viable and so progress quickly to formal due diligence. The
Company will not have a separate investment manager.
Compliance with applicable law and IFRS
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Companies Act 2006 and International Accounting
Standards (IAS) and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and related interpretations, as adopted by the
European Union.
Composition of the financial statements
The Company financial statements are drawn up in Sterling, the functional currency of Gunsynd plc (formerly Evocutis plc)
and in accordance with IFRS accounting presentation. The level of rounding for financial information is the nearest thousand
pounds.
19
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED
1 Presentation of the financial statements continued
Accounting convention
The financial statements have been prepared using the historical cost convention, as modified by the revaluation of certain
items, as stated in the accounting policies.
Basis of preparation – Going concern
The financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, notwithstanding the profit for the year ended 31 July
2017. This basis assumes that the company will have sufficient funding to enable it to continue to operate for the foreseeable
future and the Directors have taken steps to ensure that they believe that the going concern basis of preparation remains
appropriate.
The Company made a profit for the year of £492,000 (2016: loss £564,000) after taxation. The Company had net assets of
£3,266,000 (2016: £1,307,000) and cash balances of £372,000 (2016: £358,000) at 31 July 2017. The Directors have prepared
financial forecasts which cover a period of at least 12 months from date that these financial statements are approved to 31
October 2018. These forecasts show that the Company expects to have sufficient financial resources to continue to operate
as a going concern.
The cost structure of the Company comprises a high proportion of discretionary spend and therefore in the event that cash
flows become constrained, costs can be quickly reduced to enable the Company to operate within its available funding. As a
junior investment exploration company, the Directors are aware that the Company must go to the marketplace to raise cash
to meet its investment plans, and/or consider liquidation of its investments and/or assets as is deemed appropriate, and the
Company demonstrated its ability to raise further cash by way of completing placings totalling £1,550,000 during the year
ended 31 July 2017. Therefore they are confident that existing cash balances, along with the any new funding would be
adequate to ensure that costs can be covered.
Consequently, the Directors have a reasonable expectation that the Company has adequate resources to continue to operate
for the foreseeable future and that it remains appropriate for the financial statements to be prepared on a going concern
basis.
Financial period
These financial statements cover the financial year from 1 August 2016 to 31 July 2017, with comparative figures for the
financial year from 1 August 2015 to 31 July 2016.
Accounting principles and policies
The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management
to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent
assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the
reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Company’s accounting policies approved by the Board
and signed on their behalf by Hamish Harris and Donald Strang, and described in Note 2, ‘Accounting principles and policies’.
Information on the application of these accounting policies, including areas of estimation and judgement is given in Note 3,
‘Key accounting judgements and estimates’. Where appropriate, comparative figures are reclassified to ensure a consistent
presentation with current year information.
20
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED
2 Accounting principles and policies
Revenue
Revenue is recognised when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery of products has occurred or services have
been rendered, prices are fixed or determinable and there is a probability that economic benefits will flow to the Company.
Other/Royalty income is recognised on an accruals basis in accordance with the economic substance of the agreement and is
reported as part of revenue. Other revenues are recorded as earned or as the services are performed. As part of the disposal
of assets agreement in March 2014, the Company retained a right to receive contingent consideration in the form of royalties
arising on any revenues generated by those assets during the 3 year period ending 18 March 2017 or from the sale or licence
of the SYN1113 asset at any time, this agreement was settled in full during the year for £18,000 as detailed in Note 7.
Segment reporting
Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the chief operating decision
maker. The chief operating decision maker has been identified as the Board of Directors. Further details are set out in Note
5.
Share capital
Financial instruments issued by the Company are treated as equity only to the extent that they do not meet the definition of
a financial liability. The Company’s ordinary shares are classified as equity instruments.
Share-based payments
Where equity settled share options are awarded to employees, the fair value of the options at the date of grant is charged to
the statement of comprehensive income over the vesting period. Non-market vesting conditions are taken into account by
adjusting the number of equity instruments expected to vest at each balance sheet date so that, ultimately, the cumulative
amount recognised over the vesting period is based on the number of options that eventually vest.
Market vesting conditions are factored into the fair value of the options granted. As long as all other vesting conditions are
satisfied, a charge is made irrespective of whether the market vesting conditions are satisfied. The cumulative expense is not
adjusted for failure to achieve a market vesting condition.
Financial instruments
Available-for-sale investments
Non-derivative financial assets comprising the Company’s strategic investments in entities not qualifying as subsidiaries,
associates or jointly controlled entities. They are carried at fair value with changes in fair value recognised directly in a
separate component of equity (available-for-sale reserve). Where there is a significant or prolonged decline in the fair value
of an available-for-sale financial asset (which constitutes objective evidence of impairment), the full amount of the
impairment, including any amount previously charged to equity, is recognised in the statement of comprehensive income.
On sale, the amount held in the available-for-sale reserve associated with that asset is removed from equity and recognised
in the statement of comprehensive income.
Trade and other receivables
Trade and other receivables are accounted for at original invoice amount less any provisions for doubtful debts. Provisions
are made where there is evidence of a risk of non-payment, taking into account the age of the debt, historical experience and
general economic conditions. If a trade debt is determined to be uncollectable, it is written off, firstly against any provisions
already held and then to the statement of comprehensive income. Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously provided
for are credited to the statement of comprehensive income.
Trade and other payables
Trade and other payables are held at amortised cost which equates to nominal value.
21
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED
2 Accounting principles and policies continued
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash in hand, current balances with banks and similar institutions and liquid investments
generally with maturities of 3 months or less. They are readily convertible into known amounts of cash and have an
insignificant risk of changes in values.
Financial investments
Listed investments are valued at closing bid price on 31 July. For measurement purposes, financial investments are designated
at fair value through statement of comprehensive income. Gains and losses on the realisation of financial investments are
recognised in the statement of comprehensive income for the period and taken to retained earnings. The difference between
the market value of financial instruments and book value to the Company is shown as a gain or loss in the income statement
for the period.
Restatement of market value movements in AFSA
The company has amended its accounting policy for Available For Sale Assets. The unrealised profits of these quoted
investments are now taken directly through the income statement less any related costs of purchase. This has resulted in a
restatement of the financial statements for 31 July 2016. This has resulted in an increased loss for the prior period by £54,000
from £510,000 to £564,000.
Taxation
The tax expense for the period comprises current and deferred tax. Tax is recognised in the income statement, except to the
extent that it relates to items recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity. In this case the tax is also
recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity, respectively.
The current income tax charge is calculated on the basis of the tax laws enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet
date in the countries where the company’s subsidiaries and associates operate and generate taxable income. Management
periodically evaluates positions taken in tax returns with respect to situations in which applicable tax regulation is subject to
interpretation and establishes provisions where appropriate on the basis of amounts expected to be paid to the tax
authorities.
Deferred income tax is provided in full, using the liability method, on temporary differences arising between the tax bases of
assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the consolidated financial statements. However, the deferred income tax
is not accounted for if it arises from initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction other than a business combination
that at the time of the transaction affects neither accounting nor taxable profit nor loss. Deferred income tax is determined
using tax rates (and laws) that have been enacted or substantially enacted by the balance sheet date and are expected to
apply when the related deferred income tax asset is realised or the deferred income tax liability is settled.
Deferred income tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against
which the temporary differences can be utilised. Deferred income tax is provided on temporary differences arising on
disallowed expenses, expect where the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference is controlled by the company and
it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.
Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets against
current tax liabilities and when the deferred income taxes assets and liabilities relate to income taxes levied by the same
taxation authority on either the taxable entity or different taxable entities where there is an intention to settle the balances
on a net basis.
Impairment of non-current assets
The carrying values of all non-currents assets are reviewed for impairment when there is an indication that the assets might
be impaired. Any provision for impairment is charged to the statement of comprehensive income in the year concerned.
Impairment losses on other non-current assets are only reversed if there has been a change in estimates used to determine
recoverable amounts and only to the extent that the revised recoverable amounts do not exceed the carrying values that
would have existed, net of depreciation or amortisation, had no impairments been recognised.
22
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED
3 Key accounting judgements and estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRSs requires management to make judgements, estimates and
assumptions that affect the application of policies and reported amounts of assets and liabilities, income and expenses. The
estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and various other factors that are believed to be
reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis of making the judgements about carrying values of
assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources.
Actual results may differ from these estimates. The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis.
Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised if the revision only affects that
period, or in the period of the revision and future periods if the revision affects both current and future periods.
Significant estimates and assumptions that may have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying
amounts of assets and liabilities at 31 July 2017 are set out below:
Fair value of contingent consideration
The consideration for the sale of intellectual property assets to Venn Life Science Holdings plc in March 2014 included an
element of contingent consideration that is based on a future royalty stream from commercialisation of those assets by Venn.
An estimate of the fair value of the contingent consideration has not been included in these financial statements. However
the actual amounts of royalties receivable in future years is dependent upon a number of factors, all of which are outside the
Company’s control. These include Venn’s ability to be able to generate commercial revenues from the intellectual property
assets, the demand for those products and other economic factors, and as such, the Company has taken a prudent basis and
not accounted for any potential future royalties. This has been fully settled during the year for £18,000 as detailed in Note 7.
Share Based Payments
The Company made awards of nil million options over its unissued share capital to the directors during the year to 31 July
2017. (2016: £nil share options issued)
The fair value of share based payments is calculated by reference to Black Scholes model. Inputs into the model are based
on management's best estimates of appropriate volatility, dividend yields, discount rate and share price. During the year, the
Company incurred £nil share based payment charge (2016: £nil charge).
4 New accounting requirements
At the date of authorisation of these financial statements, the following IFRSs, IASs and Interpretations were in issue but not
yet effective. Their adoption is not expected to have a material effect on the financial statements unless otherwise indicated:
IFRS 9 Financial Instruments (effective date 1 January 2018);
IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers (effective date 1 January 2018);
IFRS 16 Leases (effective date 1 January 2019);
IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts (effective date 1 January 2021).
5 Segmental analysis
Segmental analysis is not applicable as there is only one operating segment of the continuing business – investment activities.
The performance measure of investment activities is considered by the Board to be profitability and is disclosed on the face
of the statement of comprehensive Income. The Board will continually review the segmental analysis of the business on an
ongoing basis and at each reporting date.
23
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED
6
Information regarding Directors and employees
Included within continuing operations
Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Share based payment expense
2017
£000
87
4
-
91
2016
£000
22
1
-
23
2017
Number
2016
Number
Average number of persons employed by the Company (including Directors) during the year
Directors
Administrative staff
Total
The compensation of the Directors, in aggregate, was as follows:
Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Share based payment expense
3
1
4
2017
£000
75
2
-
77
Full details of the remuneration of individual directors, including the highest paid director, are set out below:
Directors
Mr H Harris
Mr D Strang
Mr C Gordon (resigned 16 June 2017)
Mr D Ormerod (appointed 30 March 2017)
Mr D Lenigas (resigned 21 December 2015)
Fees &
salary
£000
Share Based
Payments
£000
26
26
19
4
-
75
-
-
-
-
-
-
Total
2017
£000
26
26
19
4
-
75
Directors fees totalling £5,000 have been accrued and remain unpaid at 31 July 2017. (2016: £27,000)
3
-
3
2016
£000
20
1
-
21
Total
2016
£000
6
6
6
-
2
20
7 Other income
Royalty settlement
Total other income
2017
£000
18
18
2016
£000
-
-
On 26 February 2014, the Company announced that it was, subject to shareholder approval, disposing of certain intellectual
property assets to Venn Life Sciences plc (the "Disposal"). As part of the terms of the Disposal, the Company was entitled to
receive additional potential consideration based on future net sales made by Venn. Subsequently, on 20 February 2015, the
Purchaser sold the intellectual property assets the subject of the Disposal to Innovenn, which is a subsidiary of Integumen plc
("Integumen"), which was admitted to trading on AIM on 5 April 2017. Integumen at that date agreed to pay £3,000 and has
also issued 300,000 new ordinary shares in Integumen to the Company at a price of 5 pence per new ordinary share, in full
and final settlement of any rights to additional consideration.
24
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED
8 Profit/(Loss) for the year
The following items have been included in operating profit/(loss):
Fees payable to the company’s auditors, Chapman Davis LLP in relation to the
Company:
Audit and assurance services:
- Audit of parent Company financial statements
- Other services
Total auditor’s fees
Analysis of other costs:
Legal and professional fees
Foreign exchange (gains)
Other general overheads
9 Taxation
Taxation charge based on losses for the year
UK Corporation tax
Deferred taxation
Total tax expense
Factors affecting the tax charge for the year:
Profit/(loss) on ordinary activities before taxation
Loss on ordinary activities at the average UK standard rate of 19/20% (2016: 20%)
Effect of non-deductible expenses
Future income tax benefit not brought to account
Other deductions for tax purposes including prior year losses
Current tax charge
2017
£000
2016
£000
10
-
10
10
(23)
274
261
2017
£000
-
-
-
492
97
-
(82)
(15)
-
12
-
12
99
-
87
186
2016
(restated)
£000
-
-
-
(564)
(113)
60
53
-
-
As set out in Note 2, the Company has not recognised a deferred tax asset in the financial statements as there is no certainty
that taxable profits will be available against which these assets could be utilised.
Factors affecting the tax charge in future years
Changes to tax legislation could impact on the Company’s effective tax rate. The UK Government has in recent years proposed
some significant changes to the UK taxation system. The UK Government announced a phased reduction in the main rate of
corporation tax to 19% and the deferred tax balances reflect that reduction in the UK tax rate, as is appropriate to the
Company’s circumstances.
25
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED
10 Earnings/(Loss) per share
Loss attributable to ordinary shareholders
The calculation of loss per share is based on the loss after taxation divided by the weighted
average number of shares in issue during the period:
Profit/(loss) from operations (£000)
Total (£000)
Number of shares
Weighted average number of ordinary shares for the purposes of basic earnings/(loss) per
share (millions)
Weighted average number of ordinary shares for the purposes of diluted earnings/(loss) per
share (millions)
Basic earnings/(loss) per share (expressed in pence)
Diluted earnings/(loss) per share (expressed in pence)
11 Available-for-sale investments
2017
2016
(restated)
492
492
(564)
(564)
2,783.3
941.9
2,815.9
941.9
0.018
0.017
(0.060)
(0.060)
Fair Value at 31 July 2015
Additions
Revaluation
Impairment provision
Fair Value at 31 July 2016
Additions
Market value Revaluations
Gains on disposals
Disposal
Impairment provision
Fair Value at 31 July 2017
The available for sale investments splits are as below:
Non-current assets - listed
Non-current assets - unlisted
Non-current assets – unlisted convertible loans
£000
1,219
145
(54)
(301)
1,009
1,888
408
417
(1,137)
-
2,585
1,170
965
450
2,585
The Directors carried out an impairment review as at 31 July 2016 on the unlisted investments, and determined that an
impairment charge of £301,000 was required against its investment in Brazil Tungsten Holdings Ltd ("BTH"), a BVI based
company focused solely on the producing Bodo Tungsten Mine in Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. The Directors considered it
prudent in light of lower commodity prices. The Directors carried out an impairment review as at 31 July 2017 and determined
no further impairment was required in regards to its unlisted investments, as a result of the progress made by the companies
and detailed within the strategic review.
Available-for-sale investments comprise investments in listed and unlisted Companies, of which the listed investments are
traded on stock markets throughout the world, and are held by the Company as a mix of strategic and short term investments.
The listed investments have been valued at bid price, as quoted on their respective Stock Exchanges, at 31 July 2017. The
market value of the listed investments at 6 October 2017 was £1,111,000.
26
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED
12 Trade and other receivables
Trade receivables
Other receivables
Prepayments
13 Trade and other payables
Amounts due within one year
Trade payables
Accruals and deferred income
14 Share capital and share premium account
Share capital issued and fully paid
At 31 July 2015
Issue of new ordinary shares on 23 February 2016
Less: costs of share placing
At 31 July 2016
All share issues for cash via Placings;
Issue of new ordinary shares on 12 October 2016
Issue of new ordinary shares on 11 January 2017
Issue of new ordinary shares on 16 January 2017
Issue of new ordinary shares on 16 January 2017
Issue of new ordinary shares on 21 July 2017
Less: costs of share placing
At 31 July 2017
15 Movements in equity
2017
£000
-
472
14
486
2017
£000
65
112
177
2016
£000
-
82
20
102
2016
£000
48
114
162
Number
of shares
Ordinary
share
capital
Deferred
share
capital
Share
premium
£000
£000
£000
724,675,828
500,000,000
-
1,224,675,828
545,454,545
1,752,500,000
141,176,471
94,117,646
1,125,000,000
-
4,882,924,490
73
50
-
123
55
175
14
9
113
-
489
1,729
-
-
1,729
-
-
-
-
-
-
1,729
9,186
300
(47)
9,439
245
525
46
31
338
(84)
10,540
Share capital represents the nominal value of the amount subscribed for shares. Share premium represents the amount
subscribed for shares in excess of their nominal value less costs of subscription. Ordinary shares carry the rights to one vote
per share at general meetings of the Company and the rights to share in any distributions of profits or returns of capital and
to share in any residual assets available for distribution in the event of a winding up.
The share-based payment reserve represents amounts arising from the requirement to expense the fair value of share-based
remuneration in accordance with IFRS 2 ‘Share-based Payments’.
Retained earnings are the cumulative net losses recognised in the income statement and other comprehensive income.
Movements on these reserves are set out in the statement of changes in equity.
27
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED
16 Related party transactions
The Company had the following transactions with related parties:
Name of related party
Relationship
Nature of transaction
Transactions with
related party
Amounts owed from
related party
At 31 July At 31 July At 31 July At 31 July
2016
£000
2017
£000
2016
£000
2017
£000
Horse Hill Developments
Ltd (“HHDL”)
Investee Company
Cash call Loan to
HHDL
-
82
82
82
Terms and conditions of transactions with related parties
Outstanding balances that relate to trading balances are unsecured, interest free and settlement occurs in cash. There have
been no guarantees provided or received for any related party receivables or payables. The Company only has the outstanding
amounts due from HHDL as at 31 July 2017. The loan outstanding is included within trade and other receivables, Note 12.
The loan to HHDL has been made in accordance with the terms of the investment agreement whereby it accrues interest daily
at the Bank of England base rate and is repayable out of future cashflows.
Compensation of key management personnel of the Company
The Company considers the directors to be its key management personnel. Full details of the remuneration of the directors
are shown in Note 6.
17 Reconciliation of net cash flow to movement in net funds
Net funds at beginning of the year
Increase/(decrease) in cash
Net funds at end of the year
Analysis of changes in net funds
Cash and cash equivalents
Net funds
2017
£000
358
14
372
Cash
Flow
£000
14
14
2016
£000
452
(94)
358
At 31
July
2017
£000
358
358
At 31
July
2016
£000
358
358
28
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED
18 Financial instruments and related disclosures
General objectives, policies and processes
The Board has overall responsibility for the determination of the Company’s risk management objectives and policies and,
whilst retaining ultimate responsibility for them, it has delegated authority for designing and operating processes that ensure
the effective implementation of the objectives and policies to the Company’s finance function. The Board receives monthly
reports through which it reviews the effectiveness of the processes put in place and the appropriateness of the objectives
and policies it sets.
The overall objective of the Board is to set policies that seek to reduce risk as far as possible without unduly affecting the
Company’s competitiveness and flexibility.
The Company reports in Sterling. Internal and external funding requirements and financial risks are managed based on
policies and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. The Company does not use derivative financial instruments such
as forward currency contracts, interest rate and currency swaps or similar instruments. The Company does not issue or use
financial instruments of a speculative nature.
Capital management
The Company’s objectives when maintaining capital are:
to safeguard the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern, so that it can continue to provide returns for
shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders; and
to provide an adequate return to shareholders.
The capital structure of the Company consists of total shareholders’ equity as set out in the ‘Statement of changes in equity’.
All working capital requirements are financed from existing cash resources.
Capital is managed on a day to day basis to ensure that all entities in the Company are able to operate as a going concern.
Operating cash flow is primarily used to cover the overhead costs associated with operating as an AIM and NEX-listed
company.
Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk arises from the Company’s management of working capital. It is the risk that the Company will encounter
difficulty in meeting its financial obligations as they fall due.
The directors consider that there is no significant liquidity risk faced by the Company. The Company maintains sufficient
balances in cash to pay accounts payable and accrued expenses.
The Board receives forward looking cash flow projections at periodic intervals during the year as well as information regarding
cash balances. At the balance sheet date the Company had cash balances of £372,000 and the financial forecasts indicated
that the Company expected to have sufficient liquid resources to meet its obligations under all reasonably expected
circumstances and will not need to establish overdraft or other borrowing facilities.
Interest rate risk
As the Company has no borrowings, it only has limited interest rate risk. The impact is on income and operating cash flow
and arises from changes in market interest rates. Cash resources are held in current, floating rate accounts.
29
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED
18 Financial instruments and related disclosures continued
Market risk
Market price risk arises from uncertainty about the future valuations of financial instruments held in accordance with the
Company’s investment objectives. These future valuations are determined by many factors but include the operational and
financial performance of the underlying investee companies, as well as market perceptions of the future of the economy and
its impact upon the economic environment in which these companies operate. This risk represents the potential loss that the
Company might suffer through holding its available-for-sale investment portfolio in the face of market movements, which was
a maximum of £2,585,000 (2016: £1,009,000).
The investments in equity of quoted companies that the Company holds are less frequently traded than shares in more widely
traded securities. Consequently, the valuations of these investments can be more volatile.
Market price risk sensitivity
The table below shows the impact on the return and net assets of the Company if there were to be a 20% movement in overall
share prices of the available-for-sale investments held at 31 July 2017.
Decrease if overall share price falls by 20%, with all other variables held constant
Decrease in other comprehensive earnings and net asset value per Ordinary share (in
pence)
2017
Other
comprehensive
income and
Net assets
£000
(427.0)
2016
Other
comprehensive
income and
Net assets
£000
(201.8)
(0.015p)
(0.02p)
Increase if overall share price rises by 20%, with all other variables held constant
Increase in other comprehensive earnings and net asset value per Ordinary share (in
pence)
427.0
0.015p
201.8
0.02p
The impact of a change of 20% has been selected as this is considered reasonable given the current level of volatility observed,
and assumes a market value is attainable for the Company’s unlisted investments.
Currency risk
The directors consider that there is no significant currency risk faced by the Company. The only current foreign currency
transactions the Company enters into are denominated in US$ in relation to transactions with or relating to its investment in
Brazil Tungsten Holdings Ltd, and no balances at 31 July 2017 are denominated in foreign currencies.
Credit risk
Credit risk is the risk that a counterparty will fail to discharge an obligation or commitment that it has entered into with the
Company. The Company’s maximum exposure to credit risk is:
Cash at bank
Other receivables
The Company’s cash balances are held in accounts with Barclays Bank plc.
2017
£000
372
486
858
2016
£000
358
102
460
30
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED
18 Financial instruments and related disclosures continued
Fair value of financial assets and liabilities
Financial assets and liabilities are carried in the Statement of Financial Position at either their fair value (available-for-sale
investments) or at a reasonable approximation of the fair value (trade and other receivables, trade and other payables and
cash at bank).
The fair values are included at the amount at which the instrument could be exchanged in a current transaction between
willing parties, other than in a forced or liquidation sale.
Trade and other receivables in scope of IAS 39
The following table sets out financial assets within Trade and other receivables which fall within the scope of IAS39. These
assets are non-interest earning.
Financial assets in scope of IAS39
Trade and other receivables (Note 12)
2017
£000
486
2016
£000
102
There are no financial assets which are past due and for which no provision for bad or doubtful debts has been made.
Trade and other payables in scope of IAS39
The following table sets out financial liabilities within Trade and other payables which fall within the scope of IAS39. These
financial liabilities are predominantly non-interest bearing. Other liabilities include tax and social security payables and
provisions which do not constitute contractual obligations to deliver cash or other financial assets, which are outside the
scope of IAS39.
Financial liabilities in scope of IAS39
Total trade and other payables (Note 13)
19 Share schemes
2017
£000
177
2016
£000
162
The Company has a share option scheme for all employees (including Directors). Options are exercisable at a price agreed at
the date of grant. The vesting period is usually between zero and five years. The exercise of options is dependent upon
eligible employees meeting performance criteria. The options are settled in equity once exercised.
If the options remain unexercised after their expiry date, the options expire. Options lapse if the employee leaves the
Company before the options vest.
Options outstanding
At 31 July 2015
Options granted
At 31 July 2016
Options granted
At 31 July 2017
Range of exercise prices
Weighted average remaining contractual life
Weighted
average
exercise
price
0.60p
Number
32,650,840
-
32,650,840
-
32,650,840
-
0.60p
-
0.60p
0.22p – 8.65p
2.60 years
31
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED
19 Share schemes continued
Options outstanding at 31 July 2016
Date of grant
6 August 2008
1 October 2010
1 April 2015
Total
Options exercisable
At 31 July 2016
At 31 July 2017
Charges to the statement of comprehensive income
Share based payment charges
Warrants in issue
Exercise
price (p)
8.65p
5.25p
Expiry
date
06/08/2018
30/11/2020
0.22p
01/04/2020
Number
1,031,990
1,618,850
30,000,000
32,650,840
Number
32,650,840
32,650,840
2017
£000
-
Weighted
exercise
price (p)
0.60p
0.60p
2016
£000
-
As at 31 July 2017 and at 31 July 2016, no warrants remained outstanding, no warrants expired during the year. (2016:
375,000,000 warrants expired) No warrants were issued during the year. (2016: nil)
20 Commitments and contingencies
The directors have confirmed that there were no contingent liabilities or capital commitments which should be disclosed at
31 July 2017.
21 Ultimate controlling party
There is not considered to be an ultimate controlling party of the company.
22 Events after the end of the reporting period
On 7 August 2017, The Company announced that it had agreed to grant 150 million share options to Donald Strang and 150
million share options Hamish Harris ("New Options"). Each New Option will entitle the holder to subscribe for new ordinary
shares of 0.01p each in the Company ("Shares") at an exercise price of 0.05 pence per Share and are exercisable at any time
until 30 June 2022, which represents a premium of circa 11 per cent over the closing mid-price on 4 August 2017. Also on
this date, existing options over 10,000,000 ordinary shares issued to each of Donald Strang and Hamish Harris which vested
on 2 April 2015 with an exercise price of 0.22 pence have been cancelled following the award of options noted above.
32