Quarterlytics / Real Estate / Real Estate - Services / Hysan Development Co Ltd / FY2007 Annual Report

Hysan Development Co Ltd
Annual Report 2007

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FY2007 Annual Report · Hysan Development Co Ltd
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OUR
GUIDING
VALUES
2007 Annual Report

stock code: 00014

Hysan Development Company Limited
49/F The Lee Gardens
33 Hysan Avenue, Hong Kong
T 852 2895 5777   F 852 2577 5153
www.hysan.com.hk

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Hysan’s fi nancial results and other 
accomplishments contributed to a 
successful 2007. Hysan’s encouraging 
revenue growth during the year was 
complemented by the Company’s strengthened 
competitiveness and operational effectiveness. 
We also, as recorded in our separate Corporate 
Responsibility Report, made useful contributions 
to our community through Hysan’s daily 
operations and giving projects. We are creating 
value and are positioned to grow further as a 
successful and responsible business, guided 
by our corporate culture and values.

Hysan Annual Report 2007

Contents

  Overview

04  Hysan’s Mission
04  Competitive Advantages
05  Value Creation

06-07  Year 2007 in Review
10-11  Chairman’s Statement

02-11

  Our Strategy in Action

14-15  Market Overview
16-25  Operations Review
28-31  Financial Policy
34-38 

Internal Controls and Risk Management

39  Human Resources

42-43 

Investment Properties Portfolio

12-43

  Our Governance

46-49  Our Board of Directors and Offi cers
50-64  Corporate Governance Report
65-71  Directors’ Report
72-78  Directors’ Remuneration and Interests Report
79-80  Audit Committee Report

44-80

  Financial Statements and Valuation

82  Directors’ Responsibilities for the Financial Statements
Independent Auditor’s Report
83 
84  Consolidated Income Statement

85-86  Consolidated Balance Sheet

87  Balance Sheet

88-89  Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
90-91  Consolidated Cash Flow Statement

  92-134  Notes to the Financial Statements
  135-136  Five-Year Financial Summary

137  Report of the Valuer
138  Schedule of Principal Properties

  139-140  Shareholding Analysis

81-140

  Shareholder Information

Hysan Annual Report 2007

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Overview

Hysan is one of Hong Kong’s leading property 
investment companies. We are the largest 
commercial landlord in the prime Causeway 
Bay district. This section provides important 
background information for our shareholders 
about where we are today, how we performed 
in 2007, and our Chairman’s outlook.

02

Hysan Annual Report 2007

CONTENT HIGHLIGHTS

  Hysan’s Mission
  Competitive Advantages
  Value Creation
  Year 2007 in Review
  Chairman’s Statement

Hysan Annual Report 2007

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Hysan’s Mission

To build, own and manage quality buildings, 
and being the occupiers’ partner of choice in 
the provision of real estate accommodation 
and services, thereby delivering attractive and 
sustainable returns to shareholders.

Competitive Advantages

Largest Commercial Landlord 
in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong’s prime offi ce and retail district 
Balanced Portfolio 
of superior investment properties
Quality Client Base 
with prominent multinational and strong local tenants
Sustainable Income 
with high occupancy consistently achieved
Established Asset Enhancement Programme 
with track record of adding value
Exceptional Services 
with focus on our commercial and residential customers
Strong Balance Sheet 
with debts of long maturity and diversifi ed funding sources
Financial Prudence 
to keep risk and return in balance
Effective Corporate Governance 
with widespread industry recognition achieved

04

Hysan Annual Report 2007

Value Creation

Recurring Underlying Profit
(HK$ million)

Underlying Profit
(HK$ million)

Adjusted Shareholders’ Funds 
(HK$ million)

1,000

800

600

400

200

0

950

1,200

1,158

40,000

755

641

586

534

1,005

1,012

960

720

609

534

480

32,000

24,000

22,399

18,553

16,000

35,072

30,729

27,134

03

04

05

06

07

240

0

03

04

05

06

07

8,000

0

03

04

05

06

07

Recurring Underlying Earnings 
per Share (HK cents)

Dividends per Share
(HK cents)

100

80

60

40

20

0

90.32

71.60

60.94

56.00

51.42

03

04

05

06

07

80

64

48

32

16

0

60.00

50.00

45.00

40.00

36.50

03

04

05

06

07

Gross Floor Area
(Excluding Property Under 
Redevelopment)

21%

24%

55%

Capital Value

Turnover by Sector

1%

16%

37%

19%

27%

3%

19%

37%

41%

Office

Retail           

Residential           

Property under 
Redevelopment      

Others

3.8 million sq.ft.

HK$35,711 million HK$1,368 million

Hysan Annual Report 2007

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Year 2007 in Review

OVERVIEW OF THE GROUP’S FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

Turnover 

Offi ce 
Retail 
Residential 
Others 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006 
HK$ million 

Change 
HK$ million 

567 
505 
262 
34 

509 
491 
232 
36 

+58 
+14 
+30 
-2 

Change
%

+11.4%
+2.9%
+12.9%
-5.6%

1,368 

1,268 

+100 

+7.9%

Change
%

+25.8%
+14.4%
+27.4%

Change
%

+12.8%
+13.7%
+14.1%

•  Group turnover rose by 7.9% (like-for-like turnover, excluding Hennessy Centre, up 18.8%)
•  Offi ce sector recorded strong growth in rentals, including capitalisation on Grade “A” offi ce decentralisation trend
•  Strong retail sales translated into higher rental rates and turnover rent

Profit Indicators 

1

2

3

Recurring Underlying Profi t 
Underlying Profi t 
Statutory Profi t 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006 
HK$ million 

Change 
HK$ million 

950 
1,158 
3,949 

755 
1,012 
3,099 

+195 
+146 
+850 

•  Increase in turnover and lower operating costs have contributed to the increase in Recurring Underlying Profi t
•  Underlying Profi t increased principally due to higher operating profi ts and realised gain on disposal of listed securities
•  Statutory Profi t improvement due mainly to HK$555 million more fair value changes on investment properties

4

1

2

Asset Value Indicators 

Total assets 
Shareholders’ funds 
Adjusted Shareholders’ Funds 

2007 
HK$ million 

40,890 
31,652 
35,072 

2006 
HK$ million 

36,253 
27,828 
30,729 

Change 
HK$ million 

+4,637 
+3,824 
+4,343 

•  Increase in shareholders’ funds due to growth in core operating business, revaluation gains associated with investment 

properties and listed securities portfolios

DEFINITIONS

Recurring Underlying Profit
This is a performance indicator of the Group’s 
core property investment business. It is arrived 
at by excluding from Underlying Profi t gains/
losses from disposal of assets, impairment, 
reversal, recovery and tax provisions for prior 
year(s).  

deferred tax on such fair value changes has to be 
provided for despite the fact that no capital gain 
tax liability will arise in Hong Kong on disposal of 
the Group’s investment properties. Accordingly, 
both of these two items are excluded in arriving at 
the Underlying Profi t.

Underlying Profit
This is arrived at by excluding from Statutory 
Profi t unrealised fair value changes on 
investment properties and related deferred tax. 
As a property investor, the Group’s results are 
principally derived from the rental revenues 
on its investment properties.  The inclusion of 
the unrealised fair value change on investment 
properties in the consolidated income statement 
causes an increase in fl uctuation in earnings and 
poses limitation on the use of the unadjusted 
earning fi gures, fi nancial ratios, trends and 
comparison against prior period(s). Besides, 

3

4

Statutory Profit
This is the profi t attributable to equity holders of the 
Company. It is prepared in accordance with Hong 
Kong Financial Reporting Standards issued by 
Hong Kong Institute of Certifi ed Public Accountants 
and the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance.

Adjusted Shareholders’ Funds
This is arrived at by adding back the Group’s share 
of cumulative deferred tax on property revaluation 
to shareholders’ funds fi gure. Deferred tax on 
property revaluation has to be provided for despite 
the fact that no capital gains tax liability will arise in 
Hong Kong on disposal of properties.

06

Hysan Annual Report 2007

       
       
       
       
KEY FINANCIAL AND OPERATING DATA

Cash Flow Information (expressed in HK$ million)

Net cash from operating activities 
Net cash from investing activities 
Net cash used in fi nancing activities 
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalent 

Per Share Data

Earnings per share, based on:
  Recurring Underlying Profi t
    Basic (HK cents) 
    Diluted (HK cents) 
  Underlying Profi t
    Basic (HK cents) 
    Diluted (HK cents) 
  Statutory Profi t
    Basic (HK cents) 
    Diluted (HK cents) 
Shareholders’ returns:
  Dividends per share (HK cents) 
  Shareholders’ returns per share (HK$) 
  Total shareholders’ returns per share (HK$) 
Assets value:
  Net assets value per share (HK$) 
  Adjusted net assets value per share (HK$) 
  Net debt per share (HK$) 

Share Information

Number of shares in issue at year end (million) 
Weighted average number of shares (million) 
Highest share price (HK$) 
Lowest share price (HK$) 
Closing share price at year end (HK$) 

Investments in Listed Securities

2007 

2006 

Change

1,044 
212 
(1,157) 
99 

918 
175 
(2,110) 
(1,017) 

90.32 
90.27 

110.09 
110.04 

375.46 
375.25 

60.00 
2.42 
5.21 

30.51 
33.81 
2.29 

1,037 
1,052 
23.80 
18.54 
22.25 

71.60 
71.53 

96.03 
95.94 

293.96 
293.70 

50.00 
1.60 
3.81 

26.37 
29.12 
2.31 

1,055 
1,054 
23.95 
18.60 
20.35 

+13.7%
+21.1%
+45.2%
N/A

+26.1%
+26.2%

+14.6%
+14.7%

+27.7%
+27.8%

+20.0%
+51.3%
+36.7%

+15.7%
+16.1%
-0.9%

-1.7%
-0.2%
-0.6%
-0.3%
+9.3%

Total return (i.e. dividends received plus capital value growth) 

65.9% 

57.3% 

+8.6pp

Financial Data

Average fi nance costs 
Net debt to equity 
Net interest coverage (times) 
Floating rate debt (% on total debt) 
Average debt maturity 
Bank facilities: Capital market issuance 

Key Operating Data (expressed in HK$ million)

Investment properties value 
  Offi ce 
  Retail 
  Residential 
  Hennessy Centre 
  Others 
Occupancy rate as at year end
  Offi ce 
  Retail 
  Residential 

5.6% 
6.8% 
7.8X 
60.1% 
4.0 years 

4.9% 
7.9% 
6.9X 
64.7% 
5.0 years 
  24.7% : 75.3%  24.7% : 75.3% 

35,711 
13,202 
9,616 
6,810 
5,650 
433 

97% 
98% 
90% 

32,473 
11,876 
9,062 
6,206 
4,900 
429 

97% 
99% 
92% 

+0.7pp
-1.1pp
+0.9X
-4.6pp
N/A
N/A

+10.0%
+11.2%
+6.1%
+9.7%
+15.3%
+0.9%

–
-1pp
-2pp

Hysan Annual Report 2007

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08

Hysan Annual Report 2007

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Hysan aims to achieve its market 
leadership by providing the fi nest 
products and services. We are proud 
to be the largest commercial landlord 
in Causeway Bay, the thriving home of 
more than 500 offi ces, retail shops and 
restaurants. Our Causeway Bay portfolio 
perfectly refl ects Hong Kong’s energetic 
and progressive personality.

Hysan Annual Report 2007

09

Chairman’s Statement

OVERVIEW
While the global economy experienced 
overall growth in 2007, the second half of 
the year saw signifi cant slowdown in the 
United States economy, stemming from 
subprime debt issues. Hong Kong’s economic 
fundamentals continued to be supported by 
domestic consumption and good employment 
conditions. The supply of Grade A offi ce units 
in core districts remained limited relative to the 
demand, leading to signifi cant rental increases. 
In particular, rental trends in the central business 
district resulted in more tenants choosing 
to relocate to other core areas including 
Causeway Bay. Retail rents were again boosted 
by strong private consumption, while luxury 
residential rental demand remained high. 

PERFORMANCE
Overall 2007 turnover was HK$1,368 million, 
up 7.9% from 2006. If the element of Hennessy 
Centre (under redevelopment since late 2006) 
is excluded, the turnover increase would 
be 18.8%. Healthy growth was recorded 
in all sectors (Offi ce: 23.3%; Retail: 17.7%; 
Residential: 12.9%), with the offi ce sector 
growth due partly to the decentralisation factor.

Recurring Underlying Profi t, which is profi t 
excluding asset value changes and prior years’ 
tax provision, was HK$950 million, up 25.8% 

from HK$755 million in 2006. Earnings per 
share, based on Recurring Underlying Profi t, 
rose to HK90.32 cents (2006: HK71.60 cents).

Underlying Profi t, excluding unrealised 
revaluation changes on investment properties 
and related deferred tax, was HK$1,158 million 
(2006: HK$1,012 million). 

Statutory Profi t increased 27.4% to HK$3,949 
million (2006: HK$3,099 million), due mainly 
to higher valuation of the Group’s investment 
properties. 

The external valuation of the Group’s investment 
property portfolio increased to HK$35,711 
million, a rise of 10.0% from HK$32,473 million 
in 2006. Adjusted shareholders’ funds went up 
by 14.1% to HK$35,072 million. 

The Board recommends the payment of 
a fi nal dividend of HK48.0 cents per share 
(2006: HK40.0 cents). Together with the 
interim dividend of HK12.0 cents per share 
(2006: HK10.0 cents), there is an aggregate 
distribution of HK60.0 cents per share, 
representing a year-on-year increase of 20.0%. 
Subject to shareholder approval, the fi nal 
dividend will be payable in cash with a scrip 
dividend alternative. 

OUR GUIDING VALUES
I believe a company’s corporate culture and 
values play a very important role in its success. 
They defi ne the way it does things, and 
ensure that all staff pursue a common goal. 
Hysan takes pride in our corporate culture 
underpinning our aim to be a successful as well 
as responsible business. “Our Guiding Values” 
is the theme of this year’s annual report. I trust 
it will give readers a better understanding of the 
values that underpin our achievements.

10

Hysan Annual Report 2007

 
DIRECTORS AND STAFF
I would like to take this opportunity to express 
my sincere thanks to Per Jorgensen, who 
stepped down as an Independent non-
executive Director after serving the Board for 
26 years. I would also like to thank Michael Lee, 
who stepped down as the Managing Director, 
for his contribution to the Group. I welcome 
Tom Behrens-Sorensen, our new Independent 
non-executive Director, who joined us in May. 
Finally, I also thank all staff members for their 
dedication and hard work throughout the year.

OUTLOOK
Hong Kong’s economic fundamentals remain 
sound, underpinned by solid domestic demand 
and employment conditions. Challenges, 
however, include the risk of further slowdown in 
the U.S. economy and in Europe. 

We are cautiously optimistic about the year 
ahead. Signifi cant price differential for Grade 
A offi ces between central business district 
and other core areas, together with limited 
new supply in such districts, should continue 
to benefi t our property investment portfolio 
situated in the prime Causeway Bay district.

Peter Ting Chang Lee
Chairman

Hong Kong, 13 March 2008

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 11

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Our Strategy in Action

This section talks about a number of key areas of 
interest, from market dynamics to our operations; 
from business opportunities to the way we manage 
risks. These are supported by our fi nancial as well 
as our human resources strategies.

12

Hysan Annual Report 2007

CONTENT HIGHLIGHTS

  Market Overview
  Operations Review
  Financial Policy
  Internal Controls and 
  Risk Management
  Human Resources
  Investment Properties 
  Portfolio

Hysan Annual Report 2007 13

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Market Overview

This market report intends to give general background 
rather than Group-specifi c information. Views expressed 
shall not be regarded as providing any advice or 
recommendation for whatever purpose. For the Group’s 
performance – see “Operations Review” section. 

HONG KONG ECONOMY
Hong Kong’s economy expanded by 6.3% in 
2007, after growing by 7.0% in 2006. There was 
broad-based growth in both the external and 
domestic sectors. Export of services increased 
11.2% year-on-year while better employment 
conditions helped private consumption 
spending to go up by 7.8% in 2007. 

OFFICE
The growth in Hong Kong’s economy 
ensured many business sectors to remain in 
an expansive mode over the last 12 months. 
This continuous growth translated into 
demand for additional offi ce space in terms 
of net take-up. In 2007, overall net take-up 
amounted to 3.4 million sq ft net, which is 
more than twice the amount achieved in 2006. 
Overall vacancy was down to just 5.1% in 
2007, compared to 5.4% in 2006. Overall 
supply of Grade A offi ces in core districts 
remained limited relative to the demand. 
Growing demand and tightening vacancy 
levels combined to lift Central’s rentals up 
32.2% for 2007. Rising rents continued to drive 
relocation of Central tenants into other core 
areas, including Causeway Bay/Wanchai, in 
addition to in-house expansions by tenants in 
those districts.

Source: Census and Statistics Department

14

Hysan Annual Report 2007

2007 

2006

3,302,070  1,131,327

1.6% 

4.2%

2.1% 

4.1%

5.1% 

5.4%

+32.2% 

+27.9%

+12.4% 

+19.2%

Grade A Offi ce  
Completion*

Central Grade A  
Offi ce Vacancy Rate

Causeway Bay/ 
Wanchai  Grade A 
Offi ce Vacancy Rate

Overall Grade A  
Offi ce Vacancy Rate

Change in Central  
Grade A Offi ce Rents

Change in Causeway  
Bay/Wanchai 
Grade A Offi ce Rents

* sq.ft. net
Source: Jones Lang LaSalle

RETAIL
Strong domestic consumption, supplemented 
by a growing tourism sector, helped create 
strong leasing demand for prime retail spaces. 
Due to intense competition for prime street 
shops especially among luxury brand name 
retailers, rentals for prime street shops were 
pushed up by 17.9% in 2007. On the back of 
limited supply, rentals in prime shopping centres 
increased by 15.3% during the year. 

Retail Sales  
by Value

2007 

2006

+12.8% 

+7.3%

Visitor Arrivals 

+11.6% 

+8.1%

Change in Prime  
Shopping Centre Rents

Change in Prime  
Street Shop Rents

+15.3% 

+8.1%

+17.9% 

+1.3%

Sources: Jones Lang LaSalle, Census and Statistics 
Department and Hong Kong Tourism Board

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LUXURY RESIDENTIAL
The luxury residential leasing market continued 
to pick up, supported by strong demand from 
expatriates. Overall rentals increased by 
17.6% in 2007 compared to the previous year. 
Sub-markets with limited supply including 
Mid-levels, The Peak and Island South 
continued to outperform. 

2007 

2006

+17.6% 

+8.9%

Change in Luxury  
Residential Rents

Source: Jones Lang LaSalle

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 15

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operations Review

OUR BUSINESS
Hysan is principally engaged, together 
with its subsidiaries and joint ventures, in 
investment, development and management of 
quality properties in prime locations. As at 31 
December 2007, Hysan’s investment property 
interests totaled some 3.8 million gross square 
feet of high-quality offi ce, retail and residential 
space in Hong Kong. The former Hennessy 
Centre at 500 Hennessy Road is currently 
under redevelopment.

2007 PERFORMANCE
The Group’s turnover was HK$1,368 million, 
up 7.9% (2006: HK$1,268 million). Excluding 
the revenue attributable to Hennessy Centre 
(under redevelopment since the fourth quarter 
of 2006), the like-for-like turnover would 

increase by 18.8% over the prior year (2006: 
HK$1,152 million).

Recurring Underlying Profi t1 was HK$950 
million, 25.8% up from last year (2006: HK$755 
million). Underlying Profi t1 (excluding unrealised 
revaluation changes on investment properties 
and related deferred tax from the Statutory 
Profi t1), amounted to HK$1,158 million (2006: 
HK$1,012 million). Statutory Profi t for the 
year increased by HK$850 million (27.4%), to 
HK$3,949 million (2006: HK$3,099 million), 
mainly due to HK$555 million higher fair value 
changes on the Group’s investment properties 
taken to the consolidated income statement, 
refl ecting rising asset values.

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS AND 
THEIR SIGNIFICANCE TO THE GROUP
Although many factors contributed to the 
results of the Group’s businesses, some of the 
key drivers for assessment of our performance 
include those set out below. The nature of 
these performance indicators, the way they are 
measured and their signifi cance to the Group 
are set out as follows:

Performance 
indicator

Operations:

How it is measured

Significance to the Group

Occupancy Rate

–  Percentage of total area leased to tenants over 

total lettable area of each sector

–  Rental revenue and management fees are 
directly proportional to occupancy rate

–  Optimises revenue by balancing occupancy 

rate and rental level

Turnover Growth

–  Rental revenue in 2007 compared to that in 

–  Refl ects the combined effect of changes in 

2006

rental rate and occupancy rate

–  Like-for-like basis: excluding rental income 

attributable to Hennessy Centre in computing 
2006 comparative fi gures

–  Like-for-like change refl ects the growth in the 
Group’s businesses on a comparable lettable 
area basis with prior year

Property Expenses 
and as a Percentage 
on Turnover

–  Principally being direct costs associated 

with daily operations of the Group’s property 
portfolio

–  Measures the direct costs incurred in 

managing the Group’s property portfolio

–  An indication of the gross margin of our 

–  Calculated by dividing property expenses by 

business

turnover

Investments in listed securities:

Total Return

–  Aggregate of dividends received and capital 

–  The Group’s equity investment portfolio is 

value growth

signifi cant in size and it is crucial to optimise 
the returns from these investments

1  Please refer to “Year 2007 in Review” section for defi nitions.

16

Hysan Annual Report 2007

Condensed Consolidated Income Statement  
for the year ended 31 December 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006 
HK$ million 

Change 
HK$ million 

Change
%

Turnover 
Property expenses 
Investment income 
Other gains and losses 
Administrative expenses 
Finance costs 
Change in fair value of investment properties 
Share of results of associates 
Taxation 

– current 
– deferred 

Minority interests 

Statutory Profi t 

Underlying Profi t 

1,368 
(208) 
98 
302 
(106) 
(175) 
3,131 
452 

(185) 
(560) 
(168) 

1,268 
(240) 
147 
201 
(111) 
(163) 
2,576 
120 

(89) 
(469) 
(141) 

3,949 

3,099 

1,158 

1,012 

Recurring Underlying Profi t 

950 

755 

Occupancy Rate as at Year End

Turnover
Turnover comprised principally rental income 
derived from the Group’s investment properties 
portfolio in Hong Kong.

The occupancy rate and turnover of the Group’s 
investment properties portfolio are as follows:

100 
32 
(49) 
101 
5 
(12) 
555 
332 

(96) 
(91) 
(27) 

850 

146 

195 

7.9 
13.3 
(33.3)
50.2 
4.5 
(7.4)
21.5 
276.7 

(107.9)
(19.4)
(19.1)

27.4

14.4

25.8

Turnover

Offi ce 
Retail 
Residential 
Others 

2007 

Total 
HK$ million 

Hennessy 
Centre 
HK$ million 

2006 

Other 
Buildings 
HK$ million 

Total 
HK$ million 

Like-for-like 
HK$ million 

567 
505 
262 
34 

49 
62 
– 
5 

460 
429 
232 
31 

509 
491 
232 
36 

1,368 

116 

1,152 

1,268 

107 
76 
30 
3 

216 

Year-on-year Change

% 

23.3 
17.7 
12.9 
9.7 

18.8 

Total
HK$ million 

58 
14 
30 
(2) 

100 

%

11.4
2.9
12.9
(5.6)

7.9

Note: Hennessy Centre was fully vacated as of 30 September 2006 in preparation for redevelopment and therefore was excluded in calculating the 

like-for-like changes from the 2006 comparative fi gures.

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 17

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operations Review

Office Sector
There was healthy growth in the offi ce sector 
rental revenue during the year, attributable 
to both new lettings as well as positive rental 
reversion on renewals and rent reviews. In 
particular, the Group successfully capitalised 
on the decentralisation trend and attracted 
new tenants including international 
accountancy fi rms, as well as others in the 
fi nancial industries.

The like-for-like turnover increased by 23.3% to 
HK$567 million (2006: HK$460 million). Overall, 
the offi ce sector revenue increased by 11.4% 
(2006: HK$509 million). Occupancy for the 
sector as at year-end was 97% (2006: 97%).

Retail Sector
Strong domestic consumptions on the back of 
favourable employment conditions and strong 
fi nancial market performance remained the 
main driving force for the growth in retail sales. 
Increased tourists arrivals also supplemented 
such growth. Strong retail sales in turn 
supported the rise in retail rental rates, as well 
as increased contribution from turnover rent.

Like-for-like rental revenue grew 17.7% over last 
year to HK$505 million (2006: HK$429 million). 
Overall retail sector revenue increased by 2.9% 
(2006: HK$491 million). Occupancy for the 
sector as at year-end was 98% (2006: 99%).

Residential Sector
There was sustained demand for luxury 
residential properties from expatriates. Year-on-
year growth was HK$30 million, up 12.9% from 
last year. Occupancy for the sector as at year-
end was 90% (2006: 92%).

Property Expenses
Property expenses are the costs of providing 
property services directly associated with the 
daily operations of our investment properties, 
being primarily related to utilities costs, front-line 
staff wages, repairs and maintenance, agency 
fees, government rents and rates, as well as 
other rent-related expenses.

The like-for-like decrease in property expenses 
as compared with last year was HK$8 million. 
The implementation of a number of energy 
saving initiatives led to a 9% reduction in overall 
energy costs compared to 2006 on a like-for-
like basis (after adjusting for tariff changes and 
other relevant factors). Other factors for less 
property expenses included lower repairs and 
maintenance costs and promotion expenses.

Total property expenses amounted to HK$208 
million in 2007, being HK$32 million (13.3%) 
lower than last year (2006: HK$240 million).

Overall the property expenses in 2007 were 
15.2% of turnover, signifi cantly lower than the 
18.9% level in 2006, refl ecting both the increase 
in turnover as well as reduction in costs.

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

Property expenses 

208 

240

Percentage on turnover 

15.2% 

18.9%

Investment Income
Investment income mainly comprised dividend, 
interest, other receivables and reversals, which 
amounted to HK$98 million (2006: HK$147 
million). The decrease mainly refl ected the effect 
of a one-off recovery item in 2006, partly offset 
by higher interest income and higher dividend 
income from the Group’s overseas investment.

18

Hysan Annual Report 2007

   
     
 
 
 
 
Other Gains and Losses
Other gains and losses mainly comprised net 
realised gain on disposal of available-for-sale 
investments and mark-to-market movements of 
fi nancial instruments.

The Group’s average fi nance costs rose to 
5.6% in 2007 (2006: 4.9%). Further discussions 
on fi nancial management, including fi nancing 
policy and fi nancial risk management, are set 
out in the “Financial Policy” section.

Change in Fair Value of Investment 
Properties
The Group has elected the fair value model for 
investment properties under the Hong Kong 
Accounting Standard (“HKAS”) 40. As at 31 
December 2007, the investment properties of 
the Group were revalued at HK$35,711 million 
(2006: HK$32,473 million), by an independent 
professional valuer, being 10.0% higher than the 
corresponding value for last year. This refl ected 
a further increase in rentals of the Group’s 
existing investment properties portfolio and a 
higher realisable value on Hennessy Centre 
redevelopment.

Excluding additions, fair value gains on 
investment properties of HK$3,131 million 
(2006: HK$2,576 million) were recognised in the 
consolidated income statement during the year.

As at 31 December 2006 
Additions 
Fair value gains 

As at 31 December 2007 

Fair Value
HK$ million

32,473
107
3,131

35,711

The Group manages its investment portfolio 
by continuing to follow prudent investment 
guidelines that sets out the permitted 
investments and limits, and with suffi cient 
fl exibility taking into account the prevailing 
volatility of the market.

For fi nancial assets held as long-term 
investments, the Group manages them with 
the aim of balancing the anticipated liquidity 
position, funding needs and capital gains. 
For this reason, certain available-for-sale 
investments were disposed of during the year 
resulting in a net realised gain of HK$255 
million (2006: HK$170 million). The remaining 
available-for-sale investment portfolio will 
continue to be held as the Group’s long-term 
investments. In addition, the Group enters 
into derivative instruments from time to time 
to manage volatilities and the pricing risks of 
its fi nancial assets and liabilities, as well as to 
enhance returns on its investment portfolio.

Administrative Expenses
Administrative expenses were lower than the 
2006 level by HK$5 million (4.5%) mainly due to 
lower staff costs and professional fees.

Finance Costs
Finance costs increased by 7.4% to HK$175 
million (2006: HK$163 million) mainly due to 
the generally higher HIBOR in 2007 and the 
expiration of interest rate hedging instruments 
secured in a low-interest environment a few 
years ago.

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 19

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
20

Hysan Annual Report 2007

I Take Pride

Hysan strongly believes in having 
the highest business ethics and 
accountability. All of us take pride in 
our work, acknowledge responsibility for 
our actions, and endeavour to complete 
our tasks in the right way.

Hysan Annual Report 2007 21

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Operations Review

Share of Results of Associates
The Group’s share of results of associates 
increased substantially by 276.7% to HK$452 
million (2006: HK$120 million). This was the 
combined result of an increased share of profi ts 
from the Shanghai Grand Gateway project to 
HK$421 million in 2007 (2006: HK$118 million) 
and that from the Singapore Amaryllis Ville 
project, which was HK$31 million (2006: 
HK$2 million).

Shanghai Grand Gateway
The Group’s share of operating results 
increased by 80.3% to HK$110 million (2006: 
HK$61 million). Overall satisfactory occupancy 
was achieved for the residential units whilst 
both the retail and offi ce properties remained 
virtually fully let. The remaining increase in share 
of profi ts was attributable to higher fair value 
gain on investment properties and an one-off 
adjustment to deferred taxation provision arising 
from the unifi cation of corporate income tax rate 
in China effective January 2008.

Under HKAS 40, properties at Shanghai Grand 
Gateway have been revalued at market value 
by an independent professional valuer. The 
Group’s share of the increase in valuation, 
less the corresponding deferred tax thereon 
(including the effect of adjustment in income 
tax rate), amounted to HK$311 million (2006: 
HK$56 million).

The Group’s effective interest in Shanghai 
Grand Gateway has increased to 24.7% at 
2007 year-end (2006: 23.7%), following the 

acquisition of an additional interest in this 
project by the Hong Kong joint-venture partners 
in December 2007.

Singapore Amaryllis Ville
The Group has a 25% interest in the Singapore 
Amaryllis Ville project. All the remaining units at 
the project were disposed of during the year 
and contributed to a signifi cant increase in profi t 
as compared to last year, refl ecting the buoyant 
luxury property market in Singapore.

Taxation
Tax provision increased by HK$187 million to 
HK$745 million in 2007 (2006: HK$558 million) 
principally due to increase in deferred tax 
provision relating to higher revaluation gains on 
investment properties and a provision for prior 
year taxation of HK$58 million.

The Group has been in dispute with the Hong 
Kong Inland Revenue Department (“IRD”) 
regarding additional tax assessments for the 
years of assessment 1995/1996 to 1999/2000. 
Full amount of tax in dispute has been provided 
for in the Group’s accounts for previous years. 
No agreement with IRD has been reached 
at the date of approval of the 2007 fi nancial 
statements. Taking into consideration the lapse 
of time and in light of recent developments 
in tax case law and practices, an additional 
provision of HK$58 million was made in the 
2007 fi nancial statements being the current 
estimate of the interest payable on the tax in 
dispute should IRD’s claim be successful.

22

Hysan Annual Report 2007

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet 
as at 31 December 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006 
HK$ million 

Change 
HK$ million 

Change
%

Investment properties 
Available-for-sale investments – listed 
Avaliable-for-sale investments – unlisted 
Interests in associates 
Cash and bank balances 
Other assets 

Total assets 

Borrowings 
Taxation 

– current 
– deferred 
Other liabilities 

Total liabilities 

Net assets 

Shareholders’ funds 
Minority interests 

35,711  
2,439  
40  
1,601  
484  
615  

40,890  

32,473  
1,678  
67  
1,272  
385  
378  

36,253  

2,861 

2,821  

270  
3,910  
1,001  

8,042  

225  
3,349  
950  

7,345  

3,238  
761  
(27) 
329  
99  
237  

4,637  

(40) 

(45) 
(561) 
(51) 

(697) 

32,848  

28,908  

3,940  

31,652  
1,196  

32,848 

27,828  
1,080  

28,908  

3,824  
116  

3,940  

Adjusted Shareholders’ Funds 

35,072  

30,729  

4,343  

Investment Properties
The investment properties were valued at 
HK$35,711 million, up by 10.0% (HK$3,238 
million) from HK$32,473 million in 2006.

The Group’s investment properties value by 
sector as at year-end 2007 is as follows:

Available-for-Sale Investments
Available-for-sale investments comprised 
principally securities listed in Hong Kong.

Overall, the Hong Kong stock market performed 
strongly during 2007, notwithstanding a sharp 
adjustment in the fourth quarter. Total returns 
from the Group’s listed securities portfolio, 
including both dividend income and capital 
value growth, were 65.9% (2006: 57.3%). 
Total fair value of our listed securities portfolio, 
classifi ed as available-for-sale investments, as 
at 31 December 2007 was HK$2,439 million 
(2006: HK$1,678 million).

The decrease in unlisted available-for-sale 
investment relates to two Singapore residential 
joint venture projects (10% interest in each).  
With all the completed units of the projects 
having been sold, the aggregate amount 
represents return of the Group’s capital by 
way of disposal of joint venture interest and 
loan repayment.

10.0
45.4
(40.3)
25.9
25.7
62.7

12.8

(1.4)

(20.0)
(16.8)
(5.4)

(9.5)

13.6

13.7
10.7

13.6

14.1

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 23

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
       
       
       
Operations Review

Interests in Associates
Interests in associates increased by HK$329 
million (25.9%) over last year. This mainly 
represented the Group’s share of results in 
the Shanghai Grand Gateway and Singapore 
Amaryllis Ville projects.

Cash and Bank Balances
The cash and bank balances amounted to 
HK$484 million as at 2007 year-end (2006: 
HK$385 million), principally refl ecting positive 
operating cash fl ows during the year and cash 
generated from disposal of listed securities.

Borrowings
The carrying amount of the Group’s borrowings 
stood at HK$2,861 million at year-end 2007, 
which was maintained at similar level as at 
year-end 2006 (HK$2,821 million).

Taxation
Provision for current taxation and deferred 
taxation increased to HK$4,180 million in 2007 
(2006: HK$3,574 million). The net increase 
was made up of a HK$148 million charge for 
the year, HK$540 million related to additional 
deferred tax associated with investment 
properties revaluation gains, and a prior year 
tax provision of HK$58 million, reduced by tax 
payments less refund of HK$140 million.

Shareholders’ Funds
Shareholders’ funds increased by 13.7% from 
HK$27,828 million in 2006 to HK$31,652 
million in 2007, mainly attributable to results 
for the year and revaluation gains associated 
with investment properties and listed securities 
portfolios. Adjusted Shareholders’ Funds rose 
by 14.1% from HK$30,729 million in 2006 to 
HK$35,072 million in 2007.

Minority Interests
The increase of HK$116 million in minority 
interests was attributable to increased profi t 
contribution as well as a revaluation surplus 
from Lee Gardens Two.

Contingent Liabilities
The Group has underwritten its associates 
on cash calls to fi nance working capital 
requirements. Based on currently available 
information, management does not anticipate 
any major call for cash contributions in the 
foreseeable future.

Critical Accounting Estimates and 
Judgements
The preparation of fi nancial statements 
requires management to make judgments, 
estimates and assumptions that affect the 
application of policies and reported amounts 
of assets and liabilities, income and expenses. 
The most signifi cant estimate relates to the 
valuation of the Group’s investment properties. 
For details, please refer to note 4 to the 
fi nancial statements.

24

Hysan Annual Report 2007

Capital Expenditure and Management
The Group is committed to enhancing the 
asset value of its investment property portfolio 
through selective re-tenanting, refurbishment, 
repositioning and redevelopment.

The Group also has in place a portfolio-wide 
whole-life cycle maintenance programme as 
part of its ongoing strategy to pro-actively 
review and implement maintenance activities.

Total cash outlay of capital expenditure 
(excluding purchase of plant and equipment) 
during the review year was HK$125 million. The 
following graph illustrates capital expenditure 
patterns during the last fi ve years:

The Group has an internal control system for 
scrutinising capital expenditures. Detailed 
analysis of expected risks and returns is 
submitted to division heads, and Executive 
Directors or the Board for consideration and 
approval, depending on strategic importance, 
cost/benefi t and the size of the projects. The 
criteria for assessment of fi nancial feasibility are 
generally based on net present value, pay back 
period and internal rate of return from projected 
cash fl ow.

At year-end, the Group had HK$3,600 million 
undrawn committed bank facilities. These 
facilities, together with the Medium Term Note 
Programme, available-for-sale investments and 
positive cash fl ows from local and overseas 
operations, provide adequate fi nancial 
resources to fund the level of planned capital 
expenditure, including the Hennessy Centre 
redevelopment project.

Hennessy Centre Redevelopment
Demolition work for the former Hennessy 
Centre site had been completed and the 
design of the new building fi nalised. Design 
enhancements, in response to market demand, 
will increase prime retail space, fl exibility 
to adjust the offi ce/retail mix with ease, 
and provisions for better connectivity with 
neighbouring facilities generally. Improved rental 
revenue will offset anticipated additional costs, 
with project completion now expected to be 
in 2011.

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 25

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
26

Hysan Annual Report 2007

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Through seamless teamwork, Hysan 
provides creative and effective solutions 
to our clients. Our thought leadership 
applies to all strategic and operational 
issues, including creating a vision for our 
ever-evolving hub in Causeway Bay.

I Forge Ahead

Hysan Annual Report 2007 27

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Financial Policy

We adhere to a policy of fi nancial prudence. 
Our objectives are to: 

•  maintain a strong balance sheet by actively 
managing debt level and cash fl ow

•  secure diversifi ed funding sources from both 
banks and capital markets

•  minimise refi nancing and liquidity risks by 
attaining healthy debt repayment capacity, 
maturity profi le, and availability of banking 
facilities with minimum collateral on debt

•  manage the exposures arising from adverse 
market movements in interest rates and 
foreign exchange through appropriate hedging 
strategies

•  monitor counter-party risks by imposing 
proper counter-party limits and reduce fi nancial 
investment risks by holding quality marketable 
securities

Performance 
indicator

Average Finance 
Costs

How it is measured

Significance to the Group

–  Interest expenses divided by average borrowing 

–  Our treasury aims to manage and optimise 

for the year

–  2007: 5.6% (2006: 4.9%)

Floating Rate Debt 
(% on Total Debt)

by total debt

–  2007: 60.1% (2006: 64.7%)

–  Debt effectively in fl oating interest rate divided 

–  A measure to calculate the percentage of 

fi nance costs

–  HIBOR moved up gradually from the beginning 

of 2007 to mid-October though signifi cant 
decline was noted in the last two months of 
2007 

–  As a measure of diversifi cation of funding 

sources

–  No movement

–  An indicator of the pressure for refi nancing or 
repaying the existing borrowings in the near 
term

–  The average maturity has shortened by about 

one year

borrowings subject to fl uctuation in market 
interest rates

–  No signifi cant change

–  It represents the Group’s fi nancial strength 
from operating activities to meet its interest 
payment obligations

–  Higher gross profi t and interest income 
outweighed the effect of higher average 
fi nance cost

–  A benchmark as to the healthy debt level as 
well as an indicator of the Group’s ability to 
raise further debt

–  Higher adjusted capital with net debt level 

similar to last year

Bank Facilities: 
Capital Market 
Issuance

Average Debt 
Maturity

–  The proportion of the borrowings from banks 
and from capital market relative to the total 
borrowings

–  2007: 24.7%: 75.3% (2006: 24.7%: 75.3%) 

–  The weighted average of remaining maturity 

period of the Group’s borrowings
–  2007: 4.0 years (2006: 5.0 years)

Net Interest Coverage 

–  Gross profi t less administrative expenses before 
depreciation divided by net interest expenses

–  2007: 7.8 times (2006: 6.9 times)

Net Debt to Equity  

–  Borrowings less cash and cash equivalents 
divided by Adjusted Shareholders’ Funds

–  2007: 6.8% (2006: 7.9%)

28

Hysan Annual Report 2007

 
Credit Ratings

Moody’s

–  2007: Baa1 (2006: Baa1)

–  Investment-grade ratings 

unchanged 

Standard and Poor’s

–  2007: BBB (2006: BBB)

The Treasury policy manual lays down the 
acceptable range of operational parameters 
and gives guidance on the above areas in order 
to achieve the objective of fi nancial prudence.

Treasury has an overall objective of optimisation 
of borrowing costs: that is, to minimise the 
fi nance costs subject to the constraints of the 
operational parameters. The cost of fi nancing 
was 5.6% for 2007.

FINANCING
As at 31 December 2007, the outstanding 
gross debt of the Group amounted to 
HK$2,921 million, approximately at the same 
level as in 2006. All the outstanding borrowings 
are on unsecured and committed basis. 

The Group always takes a prudent approach 
in managing its loan portfolio. On the individual 
loan level, the Group strives to lower the 
borrowing margin as far as possible; but on the 
portfolio level, the more important objectives are 
to ensure suffi cient available facilities, diversify 
the funding sources and to maintain a suitable 
average tenor relative to the overall duration of 
the use of the funds.

The Group has also established long-term 
relationships with a number of local and 
overseas banks. At present, 13 local and 
overseas banks have provided bilateral 
banking facilities to the Group and such bank 
borrowings accounted for about 24.7% of 
the Group’s outstanding gross debt while the 
remaining 75.3% outstanding debts were 
sourced from the capital market.

LIQUIDITY AND CASH BALANCE
The Group understands the importance of 
liquidity and thus places great emphasis on 
liquidity management. The Group’s major 
sources of liquidity are from the strong 
recurring cash fl ows of the business and the 
committed banking facilities. Further liquidity 
reserve is maintained in the form of highly 
liquid securities listed on The Stock Exchange 
of Hong Kong Limited. As at 31 December 
2007, the market value of these securities 
amounted to HK$2,534 million and the balance 
of bank deposits was about HK$484 million. 
Furthermore, the total undrawn committed 
facilities of HK$3,600 million as at 31 December 
2007, essentially allows the Group to obtain the 
same level of liquidity as holding the equivalent 
amount of cash.

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 29

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Financial Policy

Other measures taken against liquidity risk due 
to the lack of funds for repayment of maturing 
debts include maintaining an evenly spread 
maturity profi le and reducing the concentration 
of debts maturing in the near term.

As at 31 December 2007, around 73.3% of 
the outstanding debts will be due in more than 
two years but less than fi ve years. The average 
maturity of the debt portfolio was about 
4.0 years. Therefore, there will not be any 
refi nancing pressure on the Group at least 
in the near term. 

The maturity profi le is as follows:

2007 

2006
HK$ million HK$ million

Maturing in more than one year 
  but less than two years 
Maturing in more than two years 
  but less than fi ve years 
Maturing in more than fi ve years 

Total gross debt 

550 

–

2,140  1,270
231  1,639

2,921  2,909

Total gross debt at the end of 2007 was 
HK$2,921 million, approximately at the same 
level as in 2006 (2006: HK$2,909 million). The 
source and application drivers leading to the 
marginally higher debt are analysed below:

Condensed Consolidated Cash Flow Statement  
for the year ended 31 December 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006 
HK$ million 

Change
HK$ million

Operating Activities
  Cash generated from operations 
  Net tax paid 

Investing Activities 
  Additions less disposals of investment properties 
  Interest and dividends received 
  Disposals less additions of available-for-sale investments 
  Receipts from overseas projects  
  Net placement of principal-protected deposits 
  Additions less disposals of held for trading investment 
  Others 

Financing Activities 
  Dividends paid  
  Finance costs  
  Net decrease in borrowings  
  Consideration and expenses paid for repurchase of shares 
  Proceeds on exercise of share options 

Net increase (decrease) in cash balances 

1,184 
(140) 

1,044 

(125) 
87 
394 
140 
(197) 
(102) 
15 

212 

(497) 
(162) 
– 
(513) 
15 

979  
 (61) 

918 

 (80) 
 60  
 95  
 106 
 – 
 –  
 (6) 

 175 

 (482)  
 (144)  
 (1,487) 
– 
 3 

(1,157)    

 (2,110)  

99 

(1,017) 

205
(79)

126

(45)
27
299
34
(197)
(102)
21

37

(15)
(18)
1,487
(513)
12

953

1,116

30

Hysan Annual Report 2007

   
     
   
   
 
 
 
 
       
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
       
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
       
 
 
Net cash generated from operating activities 
was HK$1,044 million, an increase of HK$126 
million from the previous year mainly attributable 
to a stronger business performance. Net 
amount of HK$140 million was used to pay 
tax amount due during the year.

Net cash generated from investing activities 
was HK$212 million, increased from HK$175 
million. The change was mainly due to disposal 
of available-for-sale investments, after offsetting 
the net cash outfl ows for principal-protected 
deposits and held for trading investment.

Net cash used in fi nancing activities was 
HK$1,157 million, mainly for payment 
of dividends, fi nance costs and repurchase 
of shares.

INTEREST RATE EXPOSURE
Interest expenses account for a signifi cant 
proportion of the Group’s total expenses. 
Therefore, the Group monitors its interest 
rate exposures closely. Depending on our 
medium-term projections of interest rates, an 
appropriate hedging strategy would be adopted 
to manage the exposure. 

The Group’s cost of fi nancing in 2007 was 
5.6%. The Federal funds rate had been stable 
at 5.25% before the easing cycle started in the 
fourth quarter and the rate reached 4.25% at 
the year end of 2007. Following the fi rst cut in 
the Federal fund rates, the upward trend of the 
HKD interest rates has reversed. In anticipation 
of further reduction in the rates, about 60.1% 
of the Group’s debts have been maintained in 
fl oating rates at the end of 2007.

FOREIGN EXCHANGE EXPOSURE
The Group aims to have minimal mismatches 
in currency and does not speculate in currency 
movements. With the exception of the US$182 
million 10-year notes, which have been hedged 
by appropriate hedging instruments, all of the 
Group’s other borrowings were denominated 
in Hong Kong dollars. Other foreign exchange 
exposure relates to the investments in overseas 
projects in Singapore and Shanghai. These 
foreign exchange exposures amounted to the 
equivalent of HK$1,601 million or 3.9% of the 
total assets.

USE OF DERIVATIVES
The Group uses derivatives extensively to 
manage the volatilities and pricing risks of its 
treasury assets and liabilities, the bulk of which 
are related to hedging interest rate and foreign 
exchange exposures. To avoid the Group 
being exposed to losses arising from the use 
of derivatives, the potential impact of their 
use is evaluated thoroughly before executing 
the transactions.

Before entering into any hedging transaction, 
the Group will ensure that the counterparty 
possesses strong investment-grade ratings 
so that the transaction will not expose the 
Group to undue credit risk. As part of our 
risk management, a limit on maximum risk-
adjusted credit exposure is assigned to each 
counterparty. The level of the limit is basically in 
line with the credit quality of the counterparty.

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 31

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
32

Hysan Annual Report 2007

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I Share and Support

Hysan maintains long-term and 
mutually benefi cial partnerships with 
our stakeholders. This enthusiasm to 
share and support shines through in our 
everyday dealings with our shareholders, 
clients, business partners and staff 
members.

Hysan Annual Report 2007 33

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Internal Controls and 
Risk Management

RESPONSIBILITY
Our Board of Directors has the overall 
responsibility to ensure that sound and 
effective internal controls are maintained, while 
management is charged with the responsibility 
to design and implement an internal controls 
system to manage risks. A sound system of 
internal controls is designed to manage rather 
than eliminate the risk of failure to achieve 
business objectives, and can only provide 
reasonable but not absolute assurance.

HYSAN’S INTERNAL CONTROLS 
MODEL
Our internal controls model is based on that 
set down by the Committee of Sponsoring 
Organisations of the U.S. Treadway 
Commission (“COSO”), and has fi ve 
components, namely Control Environment; Risk 
Assessment; Control Activities; Information and 
Communication; Monitoring. In developing our 

internal controls model based on the COSO 
principles, we have taken into consideration 
our organisation structure and nature of 
business activities:

•  Control Environment – this is very important 
as it sets the tone for internal controls in a 
company. Hysan is a tightly-knit organisation 
with around 500 staff members. The actions 
of management and its demonstrated 
commitment to effective governance and 
control are therefore very transparent to all. 
We have a strong tradition of good corporate 
governance and a corporate culture based 
on good business ethics and accountability. 
We aim to build risk awareness and control 
responsibility into our culture and regard this as 
the foundation of our internal controls system.

•  Control Activities – our core property 
leasing and management business involves 
well-established business processes. Control 
Activities have traditionally been built on senior 
management reviews, segregation of duties and 
physical controls. Nonetheless, we recognise 
that an appropriate level of further formalisation 
commensurate with the complexity of business 
processes is benefi cial for the continual 
development of the Group. There is also the 
general desire to move towards a management 
style based on systematic and structured 
control principles.

34

Hysan Annual Report 2007

FOCUS IN 2007
Our Control Environment is further enhanced. 
A company-wide briefi ng of our Code of Ethics 
was completed, to ensure all staff members 
have a good understanding not only of the 
Code provisions but also their application to 
daily operating activities. In order to make 
the staff even more comfortable and not be 
intimidated in reporting breaches of Code of 
Ethics, we have refi ned the whistle-blowing 
mechanism. An independent third-party service 
provider will be engaged to receive complaints 
and allegations, effective March 2008. It is 
a relatively new practice among Hong Kong 
corporations. These are accompanied by 
efforts to reinforce our corporate values by a 
range of communication channels, including 
newsletters, staff events, and corporate 
publications. The roles of the Board and Audit 
Committee in this regard were reinforced. For 
instance, corporate values and culture is a 
Board-level issue as formalised in the Board of 
Directors Mandate. To ensure alignment of staff 
roles, responsibilities as well as authorities to 
corporate objectives, we reviewed and updated 
job descriptions across the organisation. 
The levels of authorities were also reviewed 
and refi ned.

In terms of Control Activities, we continued the 
phased project to document all key policies and 
procedures for operating, fi nancial reporting and 
compliance functions. An appropriate balance 
of preventive and detective controls was built in.

We set up our Internal Audit function during the 
second half of the year to assist management 
in its “Monitoring” function by providing 
independent assessment and assurance. 
The principle of independence was fi rmly 
established, as evident by its reporting line to 
Audit Committee and Chief Executive Offi cer 
(Chairman acting). Other key principles, 
including the principle of objectivity under which 
internal auditors should not be involved in the 
operations being audited, are refl ected in an 
Internal Audit Charter approved by the Audit 
Committee. A special Audit Committee meeting 
was convened to ensure smooth working of the 
Internal Audit function. The 2008 Internal Audit 
Plan was approved by the Committee. 

2007 REVIEW OF INTERNAL 
CONTROLS EFFECTIVENESS
The Board is responsible for the Company’s 
system of internal controls and for reviewing its 
effectiveness. Internal Audit and management 
conduct reviews of the effectiveness of the 
Company’s system of internal controls. The 
Audit Committee reviews the fi ndings and 
opinion of Internal Audit and management on 
the effectiveness of the Company’s system of 
internal controls at least once each year and 
reports annually to the Board on such reviews.

In respect of the year ended 31 December 
2007, the Board considered the internal 
controls system effective and adequate. 
No signifi cant areas of concern which might 
affect the operational, fi nancial reporting, 
and compliance functions of the Company 
were identifi ed.

WAY FORWARD
We recognise that the strengthening of internal 
controls is a continuing process. The followings 
form the basis of further work in this light:

•  Governance – in light of the search of a new 
Chief Executive Offi cer and the coming on 
board of new senior executives, the governance 
structure will be reviewed to ensure clear and 
appropriate roles, responsibilities and authorities 
for the senior management team.

•  Policies and procedures – we shall continue 
our phased project to review and document 
policies and procedures covering key operating, 
fi nancial reporting and compliance functions. 
The focus will include inter-departmental issues 
and reviewing documented policies following 
implementation in the light of balancing controls 
and operating effi ciency.

•  Education and communication – an effective 
internal controls system does not stop at senior 
management level. We shall further strengthen 
risks and controls awareness among our staff 
across the organisation. 

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 35

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Internal Controls and Risk Management

THE HYSAN INTERNAL CONTROLS SYSTEM – HOW COSO PRINCIPLES ARE APPLIED
The following is a summary of the key COSO principles and how Hysan has applied them.

Control Environment 

Component

Hysan’s way to achieve the principle

Integrity and Ethical Values 
Basic Principle:

Sound integrity and ethical values, 
particularly of top management, 
are developed, communicated 
and policed so that these set 
the standard of conduct for the 
organisation.

Developing the values 
Hysan has in place a formal Code of Ethics, emphasising the key principles of 
(i) respect for people; (ii) ethics and business integrity; (iii) meeting our responsibility. 
Specifi c guidelines on various areas including corporate and fi nancial reporting, 
confl icts of interests, personal benefi ts, relations with suppliers and contractors 
are covered.

Communication
–  Briefi ng of Code of Ethics covered in orientation programme for new recruits.
–  Code provisions posted on intranet to provide easy access to all.
–  During 2007, completed a company-wide briefi ng of our Code of Ethics to employees 

at all levels.

Monitoring
–  (Effective March 2008) An independent third party service provider engaged to monitor 

the “whistle-blowing” system with direct reporting to Audit Committee Chairman.

Mechanics:

–  available 24-hour-a-day, 7 days a week, option of remaining anonymous; via 

telephone / email / post

–  reporting – report to the Audit Committee directly to preserve impartiality where 

the allegation involves senior management or anyone in the Corporate 
Services Division 

Importance of the Board of 
Directors
Basic Principle:

The Board of Directors 
understands and exercises 
oversight responsibility related to 
internal controls.

Formalised Board roles and responsibilities
–  Internal controls and risk management, corporate culture and values are 

Board-level activities.

Formalised role expectations of Non-executive Directors
–  Key roles of Non-executive Directors are formalised, which roles include monitoring 

of management performance, review of risk management, in addition to requirements 
applicable to all Directors.

36

Hysan Annual Report 2007

Component

Hysan’s way to achieve the principle

Management’s Philosophy and 
Operating Style
Basic Principle:

Continual reinforcement
–  This is integrated into our daily operations and continually reinforced.
–  Use of communication channels including staff newsletters, events and corporate 

Management’s philosophy and 
operating style support achieving 
effective internal controls by setting 
the tone across the organisation.

publications.

Levels of Authority and 
Responsibility
Basic Principle:

Management and employees 
are assigned appropriate levels 
of authority and responsibility to 
facilitate effective internal controls.

Human Resources
Basic Principle:

Human resources policies and 
practices are designed and 
implemented to facilitate effective 
internal controls, emphasising 
organisation and development of 
people and their competence.

Levels of responsibilities 
–  During 2007, we conducted a comprehensive review and update of job descriptions 

across the Company.

Levels of authority 
–  During 2007, we refi ned our written levels of authority across the Company. 

The principles of segregation of duties and confl icts of interests have been built in 
where appropriate.

Human Resources policies
–  Hysan formalised and refi ned its human resources policies to ensure competence of 
our staff, and appropriate application of the principles of checks-and-balances and 
fairness in key people issues.

Checks-and-balances 
–  Neither business line nor human resources may have absolute power in key people 

issues including hiring/termination, disciplinary actions. 

Competence 
–  Various background checks for new recruits; all staff expected to demonstrate 

behaviours consistent with Code of Ethics and reasonable standard of performance 
(Employee Discipline Policy); staff given growth opportunity for retention (Staffi ng 
Policy – internal transfers).

Fairness
–  Employee Discipline Policy provides for various types of disciplinary actions 

(oral/written warning, dismissal) according to degree of misconduct; Grievance 
Handling Procedures provide for opportunity to be heard in an appeal system.

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 37

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Internal Controls and Risk Management

Hysan’s way to achieve the principle

–  Management conducted an entity-wide exercise in 2006 to map all key control 

processes to appropriate control objectives. Process owners were identifi ed who have 
the responsibility for ensuring that (i) controls exist and are in operation; (ii) the relevant 
policies are documented and updated in light of self-risk assessment. To facilitate the 
process, a standardised template was developed for documenting these policies:
–  objectives of the policy
–  scope of the policy
–  functions/locations to which the policy applies
–  roles and responsibilities for ownership, creation, implementation, and maintenance 

of policy

–  key provisions covered by the policy

–  Our Control Activities include a range of activities such as management reviews of 

operating performance, approvals, reconciliations, security of assets and segregation 
of duties. An appropriate balance of preventive and detective controls is used. 
Balancing the availability of resources, duties are segregated to mitigate risks.

Hysan’s way to achieve the principle

–  A review of internal controls system was conducted by independent consultants 

in 2006.

–  Set-up of Internal Audit function in 2007. Internal Audit performed an independent 
review of the overall effectiveness of internal controls system based on framework 
developed by independent consultants in 2006. 

–  Internal Audit reports are distributed to senior management. Signifi cant fi ndings will be 
reported to Audit Committee immediately. Summary of fi ndings and audit work done 
will be presented to Audit Committee on a half-yearly basis.

–  In general, management monitoring of internal controls effectiveness is a by-product 
of  monitoring the business through management’s direct involvement in business 
operations. 

Control Activities

Component

Basic Principle:

Elements of Control Activities – 
policies and procedures are 
established and communicated 
throughout the Company, enabling 
management directives to be 
carried out.

Basic Principle:

Selection and development 
of Control Activities – Control 
Activities are selected and 
developed considering their cost 
and potential effectiveness in 
mitigating risks.

Monitoring

Component

Basic Principle:

On-going and separate 
evaluations of all fi ve internal 
controls components; internal 
controls defi ciencies are identifi ed 
and communicated in a timely 
manner to responsible parties for 
taking corrective action, and to 
management and the Board as 
appropriate. 

38

Hysan Annual Report 2007

 
At the same time, we aim to attract the best 
talent and are prepared to go beyond the 
property industry for general management skills 
that complement our technical expertise. 

Key positions across the Group have been 
fi lled both by promotions within the existing 
employee population and by successful 
new hires.

REWARD AND RECOGNITION
We recognise that competitive compensation is 
a pre-requisite to recruiting and retaining talent. 
Hysan has always rewarded its staff based on 
performance and contribution. During the year, 
we refi ned our differentiated compensation 
system to better align the nature and market 
competitiveness of different job families.

EMPLOYEE COMMUNICATION
We understand that effective communication 
is key to fostering staff commitment to 
the Group and we continue to refi ne our 
employee communication programme. This 
includes briefi ngs and updates on results 
announcements and other key corporate 
developments, regular newsletters, and 
gatherings with senior management. 

THE HYSAN ADVANTAGE
We aim to be the employer of choice in the 
property sector, attracting and retaining the 
best talent that share our corporate values 
emphasising quality, innovation, and achieving 
results the right way. We have identifi ed career 
management as an improvement area and 
plans are in place to address the issue.

Human 
Resources

People remain key to the ongoing growth and 
success of our business. As at 31 December 
2007, we have a total of 459 staff members, 
including head offi ce asset management team 
and front-line building management staff.
We operate in a business environment with 
increased competition. Our business strategy 
is to provide innovative real estate solutions, 
thereby capturing new customers as well as 
retaining existing ones. This drives our human 
resources strategy to become the employer of 
choice in the property sector. Our objective is 
to attract and retain high-performing employees 
who can add value to the business.

We made good progress in delivering our 
human resources strategy covering the core 
areas of:
•  Talent management
•  Reward and recognition
•  Employee communication

TALENT MANAGEMENT 
Considerable efforts were devoted to identifying 
core skills and competencies essential to the 
achievement of business objectives in the 
changing market and competitive environment. 
We recognise that we need to challenge the 
existing practices so as to provide a better 
solution to serve our existing and potential 
customers. This requires the skills of innovation 
— the ability to spot opportunities, to 
evaluate existing business practices including 
emulating those from other industries. We shall 
continue to develop our people by fostering 
the competencies of innovation and broader 
business perspectives in our daily operations. 

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 39

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
I Care

Hysan takes responsibility by giving 
back to our community. Through our 
everyday business operations and active 
participation in community activities, 
Hysan demonstrates how corporations 
can give more than just fi nancially to 
make our society a better place.

40

Hysan Annual Report 2007

Hysan Annual Report 2007 41

Investment Properties Portfolio

Bamboo 
Grove

Mid-Levels

Leighton 
Centre

500 Hennessy Road

Lee 
Theatre 
Plaza

One Hysan 
Avenue

The Lee 
Gardens

Lee 
Gardens 
Two

111 
Leighton 
Road

Sunning 
Plaza

AIA 
Plaza

Sunning 
Court

BAMBOO GROVE  74-86 Kennedy Road, Mid-Levels
A luxury residential complex in the Mid-Levels, Bamboo Grove commands 
panoramic views of the harbour and the greenery of the Peak, and is 
well served by a multitude of public transport. In addition to superb 
property management services and full club-house and sports facilities, 
tenants also enjoy personalised resident services that help ensure a 
comfortable stay.

LEIGHTON CENTRE  77 Leighton Road, Causeway Bay
This offi ce and retail complex enjoys close proximity to all forms of public 
transport. Its central location in the Causeway Bay area makes it a much 
sought-after location for many professional practices.

LEE THEATRE PLAZA  99 Percival Street, Causeway Bay
Like its predecessor, Lee Theatre, the Lee Theatre Plaza is a Hong 
Kong landmark, being one of the city’s best known shopping and dining 
complexes, housing many of the world's most famous lifestyle brands 
and restaurants.

500 HENNESSY ROAD  Causeway Bay
Under redevelopment.

Total Gross
Floor Area

691,546 sq.ft.

Number 
of Units

Parking 
Spaces

Year 
Completed/
Renovated

345

436

1985/2002

Total Gross
Floor Area

435,008 sq.ft.

Number 
of Floors

Parking 
Spaces

Year 
Completed/
Renovated

28

264

1977/2004

Total Gross
Floor Area

317,160 sq.ft.

Number 
of Floors

26

Year 
Completed/
Renovated

1994

Estimated
total
Gross
Floor Area

Projected 
year of
Completion

Approx.
710,000 sq.ft.

2011

42

Hysan Annual Report 2007

Total Gross
Floor Area

169,019 sq.ft.

Number 
of Floors

26

Year 
Completed/
Renovated

1976/2002

Total Gross
Floor Area

902,797 sq.ft.

Number 
of Floors

Parking 
Spaces

Year 
Completed/
Renovated

53

200

1997

Total Gross
Floor Area

626,996 sq.ft.

Number 
of Floors

Parking 
Spaces

34

176

Year 
Completed/
Renovated

1992/renovation 
of retail podium 
in 2003

Total Gross
Floor Area

279,717 sq.ft.

Number 
of Floors

Parking 
Spaces

30

150 (jointly owned 
with Sunning Court)

Year 
Completed/
Renovated

1982

Total Gross
Floor Area

97,516 sq.ft.

Number 
of Units

Parking 
Spaces

Year 
Completed/
Renovated

59

150 (jointly owned 
with Sunning Plaza)

1982/2003

Total Gross
Floor Area

139,119 sq.ft.

Number 
of Floors

25

Year 
Completed/
Renovated

1989

Total Gross
Floor Area

79,905 sq.ft.

Number 
of Floors

24

Year 
Completed/
Renovated

1988/2004

ONE HYSAN AVENUE  1 Hysan Avenue, Causeway Bay
Located at the junction of three busy streets in the heart of Causeway 
Bay, this offi ce and retail complex enjoys a prime location with a variety of 
retail facilities in the surrounding area.

THE LEE GARDENS  33 Hysan Avenue, Causeway Bay
The Lee Gardens is the Group’s fl agship property comprising an offi ce 
tower, Manulife Plaza, and a high-end shopping centre. The development, 
close to the MTR Causeway Bay station, enjoys spectacular views 
of the Harbour and Happy Valley and is home to many international 
corporations, luxury fashion brands and renowned restaurants.

LEE GARDENS TWO  28 Yun Ping Road, Causeway Bay
Lee Gardens Two is an offi ce and retail complex. The complex is 
conveniently linked to the neighbouring The Lee Gardens and is home 
to many international corporations, luxury fashion brands, renowned 
restaurants and a children's concept fl oor.

SUNNING PLAZA  10 Hysan Avenue, Causeway Bay
Designed by the renowned architect I.M. Pei, Sunning Plaza greets 
tenants and visitors with a spacious entrance and lift lobby. Among 
its retail tenants are popular food and beverage outlets, which have 
established the plaza as a hub for relaxation and social recreation.

SUNNING COURT  8 Hoi Ping Road, Causeway Bay
The Sunning Court is a unique residential tower in the dynamic 
Causeway Bay area. Located in a pleasant environment with tree-lined 
streets, and within easy reach of all forms of relaxation and entertainment 
in the surrounding district, the building provides maximum comfort for 
its tenants.

AIA PLAZA  18 Hysan Avenue, Causeway Bay
AIA Plaza is a 25-level offi ce and retail complex at the corner of Hysan 
Avenue. The building boasts a bright and spacious lobby, and houses 
restaurants, specialty cafes and banking services.

111 LEIGHTON ROAD  111 Leighton Road, Causeway Bay
Located in a pleasant and quieter area in the heart of Causeway Bay, 
111 Leighton Road is an ideal offi ce location for professional and 
designer fi rms. The retail shops include a European kitchen concept 
store and a restaurant/fashion store.

Hysan Annual Report 2007 43

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Our Governance

We are proud of our commitment to maintaining 
the highest standards of corporate governance, 
the only means to achieve long-term and 
sustainable returns. Underlying this commitment 
is our aim to be a responsible business.

44

Hysan Annual Report 2007

CONTENT HIGHLIGHTS

  Our Board of Directors
  and Offi cers
  Corporate Governance 
  Report
  Directors’ Report
  Directors’ Remuneration
  and Interests Report
  Audit Committee Report

Hysan Annual Report 2007 45

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Our Board of Directors and Offi cers

STRUCTURE

The Board

Audit
Committee

Chairman

Chief
Executive
Officer

Emoluments
Review
Committee

Nomination
Committee

Investment
Committee

Chairman
Peter Ting Chang LEE (I, chairing N)
J.P. (currently acting as Chief Executive Offi cer)

Independent non-executive 
Deputy Chairman
Sir David AKERS-JONES (N, chairing A, E)
G.B.M., K.B.E., C.M.G., J.P.

Independent non-executive Directors
Tom BEHRENS-SORENSEN (A) 
Fa-kuang HU (E)
G.B.S., C.B.E., J.P. 
Dr. Geoffrey Meou-tsen YEH (E, N)
S.B.S., M.B.E., J.P., D.C.S., M.Sc., F.C.I.O.B., F.Inst.D.

Non-executive Directors
Hans Michael JEBSEN (I)
B.B.S.
Anthony Hsien Pin LEE (chairing I)
Chien LEE (A)
Dr. Deanna Ruth Tak Yung RUDGARD

Finance

Executive Director
Pauline Wah Ling YU WONG

Company Secretary
Wendy Wen Yee YUNG

Corporate
Services

Property
Investment

Property
Services

Property
Development

(A)  Audit Committee
(E)  Emoluments Review Committee
(N)  Nomination Committee
Investment Committee
(I) 

46

Hysan Annual Report 2007

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Mr. Lee joined the Board in 1988, became Managing Director in 1999, 
and Chairman in 2001. Mr. Lee is a non-executive director of Cathay 
Pacifi c Airways Limited, CLP Holdings Limited, Hang Seng Bank 
Limited, SCMP Group Limited, Maersk China Limited, and a director 
of a number of other companies. He is also vice president of the Real 
Estate Developers Association of Hong Kong. He is a member of the 
founding Lee family and a director of Lee Hysan Estate Company, 
Limited, a substantial shareholder of the Company. Mr. Lee holds a 
Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering from the University of 
Manchester and is also qualifi ed as a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of 
England and Wales. He is aged 54.

Sir David is Chairman of GAM Hong Kong Limited, Deputy Chairman 
of CNT Group Limited and a non-executive director of various other 
companies. He is also a chairman and member of various voluntary 
organisations. He received his Master of Arts Degree at Oxford 
University. He was formerly the Chief Secretary of Hong Kong. He was 
appointed a Director in 1989 and became the Deputy Chairman in 
2001. He is aged 80.

Mr. Behrens-Sorensen is the Group Executive Vice President of A.P. 
Moller-Maersk Group as well as Chairman of Maersk China Limited. 
He is also the Chairman of the Danish Chamber of Commerce in 
China and Chairman of the European Chamber of Commerce in China 
Transportation Working Group. He has over 20 years of experience with 
the A.P. Moller – Maersk Group in Asia and Australia. He was appointed 
an Independent non-executive Director in 2007 and is aged 49.

Mr. Hu is Honorary Chairman of Ryoden Development Limited. 
He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from Shanghai Jiao Tong 
University. He was appointed a Non-executive Director in 1979 and as 
Independent non-executive Director in 2008. He is aged 84.

Mr. Jebsen is Chairman of Jebsen and Company Limited as well as a 
director of other Jebsen Group companies worldwide. He is also an 
independent non-executive director of The Wharf (Holdings) Limited. 
He was appointed a Non-executive Director in 1994 and is aged 51.

Peter Ting Chang Lee 
Chairman (I, chairing N) 
J.P.

Sir David Akers-Jones
Independent non-executive 
Deputy Chairman 
(N, chairing A, E) 
G.B.M., K.B.E., C.M.G., J.P.

Tom Behrens-Sorensen
Independent non-executive 
Director (A)

Fa-kuang Hu 
Independent non-executive 
Director (E) 
G.B.S., C.B.E., J.P.

Hans Michael Jebsen 
Non-executive Director (I) 
B.B.S.

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 47

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Our Board of Directors and Offi cers

Mr. Lee is a director and substantial shareholder of the Australian-
listed Beyond International Limited, principally engaged in television 
programme production and international sales of television programmes 
and feature fi lms. He received a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Princeton 
University and a Master of Business Administration Degree from The 
Chinese University of Hong Kong. Mr. Lee is a member of the founding 
Lee family and a director of Lee Hysan Estate Company, Limited, 
a substantial shareholder of the Company. He was appointed a 
Non-executive Director in 1994 and is aged 50.

Mr. Lee is a private investor and a non-executive director of a number 
of companies including Swire Pacifi c Limited and Television Broadcasts 
Limited. He is a member of the founding Lee family and a director 
of Lee Hysan Estate Company, Limited, a substantial shareholder 
of the Company. Mr. Lee received a Bachelor of Science Degree in 
Mathematical Science, a Master of Science Degree in Operations 
Research and a Master of Business Administration Degree from 
Stanford University. Mr. Lee was appointed a Non-executive Director 
in 1988 and is aged 54.

Dr. Rudgard received a Master of Arts Degree, Bachelor of Medicine 
and of Surgery Degree from Oxford University. She is a member of 
the founding Lee family and a director of Lee Hysan Estate Company, 
Limited, a substantial shareholder of the Company. She was appointed 
a Non-executive Director in 1993 and is aged 68.

Dr. Yeh is former Chairman of Hsin Chong Construction Group Ltd. 
He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from University of Illinois and 
a Master of Science Degree from Harvard University. Dr. Yeh was 
appointed a Non-executive Director in 1979 and as Independent 
non-executive Director in 2001. He is aged 76.

Mrs. Wong is responsible for the Group’s investment properties 
activities. Having obtained a Bachelor of Arts Degree from The 
University of Hong Kong, she qualifi ed as a Fellow Member of the 
Chartered Institute of Housing. She joined the Company in 1981 
and has over 30 years of experience in the property fi eld. She was 
appointed a Director in 1991 and is aged 59.

Anthony Hsien Pin Lee 
Non-executive Director 
(chairing I)

Chien Lee 
Non-executive Director (A)

Dr. Deanna Ruth Tak 
Yung Rudgard
Non-executive Director 

Dr. Geoffrey 
Meou-tsen Yeh 
Independent non-executive 
Director (E, N) 
S.B.S., M.B.E., J.P., D.C.S., 
M.Sc., F.C.I.O.B., F.Inst.D.

Pauline Wah Ling 
Yu Wong 
Executive Director

48

Hysan Annual Report 2007

OFFICERS

From left to right: Pauline Wah Ling Yu Wong (Executive Director), Peter Ting Chang Lee (Chairman), 
Ricky Tin For Tsang (Chief Financial Offi cer), Wendy Wen Yee Yung (Company Secretary)

Ricky Tin For Tsang 
Chief Financial Offi cer
Mr. Tsang joined the Group in 2004 and oversees the areas of fi nancial control and accounting, 
treasury, corporate fi nance and institutional investors relations, as well as information technology. 
He had previously held senior positions in risk management, treasury and fi nancial control 
with major fi nancial institutions in the United Kingdom and in Hong Kong. Mr. Tsang holds a 
Masters’ Degree in Engineering from Oxford University, United Kingdom. He is also qualifi ed as 
a Chartered Accountant with the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, and 
is a Fellow of Hong Kong Institute of Certifi ed Public Accountants. He is also a member of the 
Association of Corporate Treasurers in the United Kingdom. He is aged 46.

Wendy Wen Yee Yung 
Company Secretary
Ms. Yung joined the Group in 1999 and is responsible for the Group’s corporate services 
including legal and secretarial, human resources and administration, as well as corporate 
communications. A solicitor by training, Ms. Yung was a partner of an international law fi rm prior 
to joining the Group. Ms. Yung holds a Master of Arts Degree from Oxford University, United 
Kingdom. She is also a Member of the Hong Kong Institute of Certifi ed Public Accountants. She 
sits on the Hong Kong Selection Committee of the Rhodes Scholarships, as well as a number 
of committees of the Hong Kong Institute of Certifi ed Public Accountants and the Hong Kong 
Institute of Chartered Secretaries respectively. She is aged 46.

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 49

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Corporate Governance 
Report

RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS AS THE 
GUIDING PRINICIPLE
Hysan aims to be a fi nancially successful as well 
as responsible business. In our quest to deliver 
long-term sustainable value to our shareholders, 
we have to understand the context in which 
we operate and make decisions that balance 
the needs of various stakeholders. To our 
shareholders, this is translated into a commitment 
to maintaining the highest standards of corporate 
governance. The cornerstones of our corporate 
governance practices are accountability, 
transparency, and integrity.

To us, therefore, good corporate governance 
is not an exercise in compliance. Nor is this 
restricted to the Board process. The Board 
must delegate to other executives, who in turn 
implement policies across the organisation. It 
is therefore crucial to reinforce our corporate 
culture and values, which emphasise good 
business ethics and responsible behaviour in 
general. 

STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE 
WITH THE CODE ON CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE
Hysan has complied throughout the review 
year with the Code Provisions contained in 
the Code on Corporate Governance Practices 
(the “Corporate Governance Code”) set out 
in Appendix 14 of the Rules (the “Listing 
Rules”) Governing the Listing of Securities on 
The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited 
(“Stock Exchange”), except that its Emoluments 
Review Committee (established since 1987) 
has the responsibility for determining executive 
Director compensation. In light of the current 
organisational structure and the relatively 
simple nature of Hysan’s business activities, 
the Board regards the current arrangements 
for the Emoluments Review Committee to 
determine executive Director compensation as 
appropriate. The Board will continue to review 
this arrangement in light of the needs of the 
Group. The Company’s Corporate Governance 
guidelines provide for separate roles of 
Chairman and Managing Director. Peter Ting 
Chang Lee serves as the Chairman. An open 
search is currently underway for a new Chief 
Executive Offi cer.

50

Hysan Annual Report 2007

Best Practices in Corporate Governance in Place at Hysan 

Exceeded 
Code 
Provisions

The Board fi rst established a formal Corporate Governance Policy in 2004.

The Board has formally designated a Senior Independent non-executive Director, Sir David Akers-Jones. He 
currently serves as Independent non-executive Deputy Chairman. 

The Board has established formal mandates and responsibilities for itself, with clear division of roles with 
management. 

The Board has established formal criteria and requirements for Non-executive Director appointments. Newly 
appointed Non-executive Directors are given formal letters of appointment.

Board evaluation: Chairman and Non-executive Directors meet at regularly scheduled sessions without presence 
of management. 

All Corporate Governance Committees (Audit, Emoluments Review and Nomination) have at least a majority 
of Independent non-executive Directors, in compliance with Listing Rules requirements. Terms of Reference of 
such Committees have been refi ned to provide for in-camera meetings without management presence to further 
encourage objective and independent discussions and assessment.  

The Group has a written Code of Ethics applicable to all staff and Directors. Monitoring of the “whistle 
blowing” mechanism has been outsourced to an external independent third party provider to further enhance 
independence.

The Group has established a Code for Securities Dealing applicable to those employees likely to have access to 
unpublished price-sensitive information.

The Group has established a Corporate Disclosure Policy to guide its communications with its stakeholders in 
order to ensure consistent and timely disclosure. 

The Group has established an Auditor’s Services Policy to identify areas of confl icts and prohibits engagement of 
auditors in such areas to ensure objectivity and independence.  

The Group has demonstrated its commitment to transparency in shareholder reporting by publishing a separate 
Corporate Governance Report since 2001. It also publishes the following reports: 
(i)  Audit Committee Report;
(ii)  Directors’ Remuneration and Interests Report; and 
(iii) Report on Internal Controls and Risk Management. 

The Group has formalised its Corporate Responsibility Policy and publishes a separate annual Corporate 
Responsibility Report.

Since 2004 the Group has operated a new form of annual general meeting (“AGM”) that goes beyond the 
discharging of statutory business by including a detailed business review session led by the Chairman.

The Group has initiated and funded a programme inviting major nominee companies to proactively forward 
communication materials to ultimate benefi cial shareholders at its expense.

The Group continually enhances the use of its corporate website as a means of communication with 
shareholders. Principal corporate governance policies, guidelines, and terms of reference of related committees 
are posted.

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 51

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Corporate Governance Report

FOCUS IN 2007
Reinforcement of our corporate culture and 
values was a main focus in 2007. This in 
fact forms an important element of further 
strengthening our control environment, a key 
component of our internal controls system. 
Our programme includes a Group-wide 
briefi ng of our Code of Ethics, establishing 
corporate culture and values as a Board-level 
matter, and strengthening the Board and Audit 
Committee’s oversight roles generally. These 
are complemented by a range of employee 
communication channels, including staff 
newsletters, events and corporate publication.

In addition to enhancing the control 
environment, other steps were also undertaken 
to further strengthen our internal controls 
system. These are described in greater details 
in a separate report – “Internal Controls and 
Risk Management”.

In terms of the Board infrastructure, we further 
reinforced the independence of corporate 
governance-related Board Committees (being 
Audit, Emoluments Review, and Nomination 

Committees). Currently, all Committees have at 
least a majority of Independent non-executive 
Directors. We refi ned their terms of reference 
and formalised the arrangements of in-camera 
meetings without management presence. 
This is intended to further encourage open and 
objective discussions and assessment.

We improved the quality of corporate reporting 
and disclosure generally. In this annual report, 
we aim to provide comprehensive yet user-
friendly information on all material matters 
regarding the Group, including the fi nancial 
situation, performance, and governance. To 
further facilitate the comparability of reporting 
and provide more insight into our performance, 
we included a greater use of key performance 
indicators, as well as general market and 
competitive information. We also enhanced 
the provision of information to facilitate 
shareholders’ exercising their rights. These 
enhancements include detailed information 
in the accompanying AGM circular on voting 
procedures, resolutions to be voted thereat, 
and shareholders’ rights generally.

Recent Recognitions for Hysan’s Corporate Governance Achievements

Year  

Awards 

2007  

2006  

2005  

–  Platinum Award (Non-Hang Seng Index Category) in Best Corporate Governance    
  Disclosure Awards 2007 by Hong Kong Institute of Certifi ed Public Accountants
–  Award Winner – Best Five Corporate Governance Practices in Asia/Pacifi c by 
  The IR Global Rankings 2007.

–  Gold Award (Non-Hang Seng Index Category) in Best Corporate Governance 
  Disclosure Awards 2006 by Hong Kong Institute of Certifi ed Public Accountants. 
–  Award Winner – Best Five Corporate Governance Practices in Asia/Pacifi c by 
  The IR Global Rankings 2006.
–  On the Top 10 Companies List with Best Corporate Governance in the Survey on
  Corporate Governance of Hong Kong Listed Companies 2006, jointly presented by 
  The Hong Kong Institute of Directors and City University of Hong Kong.

–  Platinum Award (Non-Hang Seng Index Category) in Best Corporate Governance    
  Disclosure Awards 2005 by Hong Kong Institute of Certifi ed Public Accountants.
–  “Citation for Achievement in Corporate Governance Disclosure” award in General 
  Category by Hong Kong Management Association.
–  Third highest rated company in Hong Kong in the FTSE Institutional Shareholder 
  Services Corporate Governance Index 2005.

2004 

–  Directors of The Year Awards 2004, in the Listed Companies Boards Category, 
  organised by the Hong Kong Institute of Directors.  

52

Hysan Annual Report 2007

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 
REPORTING
We have set out detailed information on our 
corporate governance structure and practices 
in the following separate reports:

•  Corporate Governance Report
•  Audit Committee Report (Page 79-80)
•  Directors’ Remuneration and Interests Report 
(Page 72-78)
•  Internal Controls and Risk Management 
(Page 34-38)

Evolution of Hysan’s Corporate Governance Framework

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 53

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Corporate Governance Report

Chairman Peter T.C. Lee spoke on family ownership and professional 
management at the 2nd Asia-Pacifi c Corporate Governance 
Conference, August 2007

“When the issue of ‘family business’ is brought up…I am sure people 
can think of good things like ‘identity and values’…and ‘long-term vision’, 
while others may see the not-so-positives like ‘abuses by the majority 
shareholder’…So how should a family business stress the positives and 
eliminate the negatives?...The essence of Hysan’s governance model 
is an effective combination of the commitment and support of a family 
ownership and the best of professional management.”

Transcript of the full speech is posted on www.hysan.com.hk

1. OUR GOVERNANCE MODEL
Hysan’s governance model is based on an 
effective combination of family ownership 
and professional management. Our founding 
shareholding family remains a major shareholder 
today. We take the view that this element of 
family ownership can enable managers to take 
a long-term view in decision-making, balancing 
the need to produce short-term results or 
earnings targets. In general, family owners also 
have a more direct interest in the outcome of 
decisions made.

This family ownership model is combined 
with a commitment to apply the principle of 
meritocracy in human resources management 
across the Group. Recruitment of professional 
management staff from outside the controlling 
shareholder base ensures that a wide net 
is cast for talent. Appropriate checks-and-
balances are also built into our governance 
structure. These include the designation of a 
Senior Independent non-executive Director 
and the establishment of appropriate board 
committees. The roles and responsibilities of 
the Board, Non-executive Directors, and Board 
Committees are clearly delineated.

54

Hysan Annual Report 2007

2. OUR GOVERNANCE FRAMEWORK

3. THE BOARD AND MANAGEMENT

Key Facts

Key Facts

There are many guidelines, policies and 
procedures that support the governance 
framework at Hysan. The following constitute key 
components of Hysan’s governance framework. 
They are posted on www.hysan.com.hk

→(cid:3)Corporate Governance Guidelines 
→ Board of Directors Mandate
→ Roles requirements of Non-executive 

Directors

→ Terms of Reference of various corporate 
governance-related Board Committees 
(Audit, Emoluments Review, and Nomination 
Committees) 

→ Code of Ethics for Employees
→ Auditor Services Policy
→ Corporate Disclosure Policy

The Board reviews its corporate governance 
practices annually

The Corporate Governance Guidelines 
form the general framework of our corporate 
governance practices and cover:

•  Mission of the Board
•  Board appointment and induction
•  Board Leadership: Chairman, 
Managing Director and Senior Independent 
non-executive Director
•  “Independence” standards for outside 
Directors
•  Board authorities, delegations and discretions
•  Board compensation review
•  Board access to senior management; 
availability of information
•  Meeting procedures
•  Governance-related Board Committees

→ Board of Directors Mandate is posted on 

www.hysan.com.hk

→ The Board reviews its corporate governance 

practices annually

→ Board focus in 2007: internal controls; 
corporate culture and values; human 
resources

The roles of the Board and of the management 
are separate and distinct. The Board’s 
responsibility is, fi rstly to formulate strategy and, 
secondly, to monitor and control operating and 
fi nancial performance in pursuit of the Group’s 
strategic objectives. On the other hand, the 
responsibility for the day-to-day management 
of the Group’s business activities and the 
implementation of the Group’s policies remains 
vested in management.

The Board and management fully appreciate 
their respective roles and are supportive of 
the development of a healthy corporate 
governance culture.

These are governed by a formal Board of 
Directors Mandate which sets out the key 
responsibilities of the Board in fulfi lling its 
stewardship roles. These include the following:

•  Strategic Planning and Monitoring
•  Internal Controls and Risk Management 
•  Culture and Values 
•  Capital Management 
•  Corporate Governance 
•  Board Succession 

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 55

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Corporate Governance Report

A detailed list of Matters Reserved For Board 
Decisions is in place setting out key matters 
that are to be retained for full Board decision. 
These matters include:

(Details on the 2007 Board review and general 
information on Group internal controls system 
are set out in “Internal Controls and Risk 
Management” on page 34 to 38)

Group human talent was another area of 
attention. There was a general review and 
refi nement of core skill requirements in light 
of the changing market environment and 
competition. Regular updates on progress in 
continually strengthening the Group’s human 
resources were provided to the Board.

Four Board meetings were held in 2007 
and the meetings were structured to allow 
open discussion. Details of Directors’ Board 
attendance records are as follow:

Director 
Executive 
Peter Ting Chang Lee 
Pauline Wah Ling Yu Wong 
Michael Tze Hau Lee 
Independent Non-Executive 
Sir David Akers-Jones 
Tom Behrens-Sorensen 
Fa-kuang Hu (Note) 
Dr. Geoffrey Meou-tsen Yeh 

Non-Executive
Hans Michael Jebsen  

Anthony Hsien Pin Lee 
Chien Lee 
Dr. Deanna Ruth Tak Yung Rudgard 
Per Jorgensen 

Attendance/Total
Board Meetings

4/4
4/4
2/2

4/4
2/2
3/4
4/4 
(25% by alternate)

 4/4 
 (75% by alternate)
4/4
4/4
4/4
2/2

Note: Designated as Independent non-executive Director 

in 2008.

•  Long-term objectives and strategies
•  Extension of Group activities into new 
business areas
•  Annual budgets
•  Preliminary announcements of interim and 
fi nal results
•  Dividends
•  Material banking facilities
•  Material acquisitions and disposals
•  Connected Transactions
•  Annual internal controls assessment and
•  Appointments to the Board following 
recommendations by the Nomination 
Committee

Where applicable, the “materiality” thresholds 
are set at appropriate levels to ensure proper 
control while allowing for smooth day-to-day 
operations to be carried out by management. 
The schedule is reviewed periodically, at least 
once a year. It was last formally reviewed by 
the Board in March 2008.

Board Focus in 2007
In addition to extensive discussions on Group 
leasing strategy, projects, and performance, the 
Board also focused on the following areas.

The Board reiterated the importance of 
continually enhancing the Group’s internal 
controls system. In light of the nature of the 
Group being a family-controlled company 
and the possible perception this might give, 
the Board paid special attention to having 
appropriate checks-and-balances in its internal 
controls system. Group culture and values 
were reinforced generally, particularly as the 
Group entered into a stage of expanding its 
human talent. 

56

Hysan Annual Report 2007

 
 
 
4. BOARD LEADERSHIP: CHAIRMAN 
AND SENIOR INDEPENDENT NON-
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
The Group’s Corporate Governance Guidelines 
provide for separate roles of Chairman and 
Managing Director. Peter Ting Chang Lee 
serves as the Chairman. An open search is 
currently underway for a Chief Executive Offi cer. 
The Group’s corporate governance model 
aims to effectively combine family control and 
professional management.

Sir David Akers-Jones acts as the Independent 
non-executive Deputy Chairman of the Board. 
His role as the Senior Independent non-
executive Director is formalised in the Group’s 
Corporate Governance Guidelines. He is 
available to shareholders and fellow Directors 
if they have concerns relating to matters 
that contact through the normal channels of 
Chairman and/or Chief Executive Offi cer has 
failed to resolve, or for which such contact 
is inappropriate. 

The Senior Independent non-executive 
Director also chairs two of Hysan’s corporate 
governance related committees, namely the 
Audit Committee and the Emoluments Review 
Committee. The presence of an Independent 
non-executive Deputy Chairman is designed 
to ensure that the Board functions effectively 
and is independent of management where 
appropriate.

actively engaged in succession planning issues 
for both executive and non-executive roles.

Diversity
Hysan’s Board members bring an appropriately 
diverse set of experience, competencies, 
skills and judgment to the Board. We fi nd 
that diversity of background and experience 
contributes to more effective Board 
deliberations. 

Skill/Experience of the Hysan Board 
Members

Executive Directors
–  Top management – Peter Ting Chang Lee 

(Chairman) 

–  Business line – Pauline Wah Ling Yu Wong 

(Executive Director)

Independent non-executive Directors
–  Civil service – Sir David Akers-Jones 

(Independent non-executive Deputy Chairman)

–  Multi-national corporations/global exposure
  – Tom Behrens-Sorensen
–  Related business (real estate and investment)
  – Fa-kuang Hu
–  Related business (construction) – Dr. Geoffrey 

Meou-tsen Yeh

Non-executive Directors
–  Trading companies/global exposure – Hans 

Michael Jebsen

–  Finance and investment – Chien Lee and 

Anthony Hsien Pin Lee

–  Professional – Dr. Deanna Ruth Tak Yung 

Rudgard

5. BOARD COMPOSITION
The Board currently comprises of two executive 
and eight non-executive Directors. The Board 
continually reviews its composition and is 

Directors’ biographies are set out on pages 47 
and 48 and are also available on the Group’s 
website.

“The outside directors bring their world of experience into our board 
room and these are especially invaluable during discussions on 
strategies and plans for the future. They are also watchdogs to ensure 
the strict requirements of the law and regulatory controls are observed. 
They make our management team much more aware of corporate 
governance requirements.”

Extract from Chairman Peter T.C. Lee’s speech at the 2nd Asia Pacifi c Corporate 
Governance Conference

Hysan Annual Report 2007 57

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Corporate Governance Report

6. BOARD INDEPENDENCE

Key Facts

→ The Board’s “independence” standards are 

posted on www.hysan.com.hk 

→ The Board reviews “independence” status of 
Non-executive Directors on an annual basis
→ All Non-executive Directors standing for re-
election at the 2008 AGM are independent 
except Chien Lee because he is a member 
of the founding Lee family

The Board has established “independence” 
standards as contained in the Corporate 
Governance Guidelines. It considers 
“independence” as a matter of judgment and 
conscience. A Director is considered independent 
only where he is free from any business or other 
relationship that might interfere with the exercise of 
his independent judgment.

The Board makes a determination concerning 
the “independence” of a Director each year at the 
time the Board approves Director nominees for 
inclusion in the AGM circular. If a Director joins the 
Board mid-year, the Board makes a determination 
on the new Director’s independence at that time. 
Currently, the Group has four Independent non-
executive Directors who are identifi ed in our Annual 
and Interim Reports and other communications 
with shareholders.

Sir David Akers-Jones, Independent non-
executive Deputy Chairman seeking re-election 
at this year’s AGM, has served the Board for 
more than nine years. Sir David Akers-Jones 
has clearly demonstrated his willingness to 
exercise independent judgment and to provide 
objective challenges to management. There 
is no evidence that length of tenure is having 
an adverse impact on his independence. 
The Board therefore considers that Sir David 
remains independent, notwithstanding the 
length of his tenure.

Management  

Independent  

Not Independent   March 2008 Review – Reason for Independence Status

No business or other relationships with Group or  
management

No business or other relationships with Group or  
management

No business or other relationships with Group or  
management 

No business or other relationships with Group or   
management (Note 1)

No business or other relationships with Group or  
management (Note 2)

INDEPENDENCE STATUS 
Name  

Peter Ting Chang Lee

Sir David Akers-Jones  

Tom Behrens-Sorensen  
(as from 8 May 2007) 

Per Jorgensen  
(up to 8 May 2007) 

Dr. Geoffrey  
  Meou-tsen Yeh 

Fa-kuang Hu  

Hans Michael Jebsen

Anthony Hsien Pin Lee

Chien Lee

Dr. Deanna Ruth 
  Tak Yung Rudgard

Pauline Wah Ling Yu Wong

Note 1:  Dr. Yeh is the former Chairman of Hsin Chong Group whose business includes construction and is on the Group’s tender list. As at 

31 December 2007, Dr. Yeh and his associates hold less than 5% interest in the Hsin Chong Group.

Note 2:  Mr. Hu is a former director and shareholder of Ryoden Lift Services Limited and Ryoden Engineering Contracting Company Limited which 

have lift maintenance and miscellaneous works contracts with the Group. Since 2004, Mr. Hu and his associates no longer have interests in 
such companies. Mr. Hu formerly acted as Non-executive Director of a number of the Group’s non-operating subsidiaries. He has resigned 
from such positions in 2008.

58

Hysan Annual Report 2007

 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
    
Best Corporate Governance Disclosure Awards 2007: Non-Hang Seng Index Catagory – PLATINUM AWARD

Organised by The Hong Kong Institute of Certifi ed Public Accountants

“The judges considered the 2006 report of 
Hysan set a good benchmark... in a number of 
respects, the company’s corporate governance 
practices exceeded the standards laid down by 
the Code on Corporate Governance Practices.”

“Generally, the judges found the report to be an 
impressive and professionally presented report.”

Extracted from Judges’ Report

7. DIRECTOR APPOINTMENTS 
AND RE-ELECTION

Key Facts

→ Formalised role requirements of 

Non-executive Directors posted on 
www.hysan.com.hk

→ Non-executive Directors are appointed for 
a term of three years and are subject to 
rotation under our Articles of Association
→ Biographies and other details of Directors 

standing for re-election are found in the AGM 
circular accompanying this Annual Report

Requirements
There is a formal, rigorous and transparent 
procedure for the appointment of new Directors 
to the Board. The Board has established the 
Nomination Committee with the responsibility 
for recommending candidates to the full Board 
for consideration. The Committee and, in turn, 
the Board reviews the skill set of the Director 
candidates as well as the Board as a whole. 
There are formalised role requirements for 
Non-executive Directors who have four 
additional key roles as well as those 
requirements applicable to all Directors:

•  Strategy – constructively challenge, hence 
help develop proposals on strategy
•  Performance – scrutinise performance of 
management in meeting agreed goals and 
objectives 
•  Risk – to satisfy themselves about the integrity 
of fi nancial information and the robustness of 
controls and systems of risk management
•  People – determine appropriate levels of 
remuneration for Executive Directors and to 
undertake succession planning

Mr. Tom Behrens-Sorensen was appointed 
as an Independent non-executive Director 
during 2007. 

Term
Non-executive Directors are appointed for 
a term of three years. New Directors are 
required to submit themselves for re-election 
at the fi rst AGM following their appointment. 
The Group’s Articles of Association contain 
provisions regarding rotation of Directors so that 
every Director will be subject to retirement by 
rotation at least once every three years. Retiring 
Directors are subject to re-election at the 
general meeting at which he retires. There is no 
cumulative voting in Directors elections, election 
on each candidate is by a separate resolution. 

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 59

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Corporate Governance Report

8. SUPPLY OF INFORMATION 
AND EVALUATION

Key Facts

→ The Chairman, with the assistance of the 
Company Secretary, is responsible for the 
induction of new Board members

→ New Directors’ induction includes provision 
of an induction package and discussion 
sessions with key management personnel

Induction and Update
On their appointment, Directors are advised on 
the legal and other duties and obligations they 
have as directors of a listed company. Newly 
appointed Directors receive a comprehensive 
induction package designed to provide a 
general understanding of the Group; its 
business; operation of the Board and main 
issues it faces; as well as an overview of the 
responsibilities of a Non-executive Director 
of the Group. Discussion sessions with key 
management personnel will also be held.

Directors’ Induction Package
The contents of the induction package are 
reviewed from time to time in light of the nature 
of the Group’s activities and the needs of the 
individuals concerned. They cover: 
•  Directors’ Duties – including
  –  Hysan Handbook on the Duties and  

  Responsibilities of Directors

  –  The Company’s Code for Securities Dealing  

  by Directors

  –  Checklist of circumstances that require  
  notifi cation by a Director to the Company

•  The Group’s Business – including
  –  Budget highlights
  –  Company organisation chart
  –  Details of any major litigation; summary  

  of major group insurance policies including  
  Directors and Offi cers’ Liabilities Insurance

•  Board Process and Current Board Issues – 
including
  –  Minutes of last 3 Board meetings
  –  Brief biographical details of all Directors, 

the Company Secretary and other key  

  executives

  –  Details of Board Committees together with  

terms of references.

Our Directors are regularly updated on Hysan’s 
business, the environment in which it operates 
and other matters throughout their period 
in offi ce. 

Supply of Information
The Board receives detailed quarterly reports 
from management in respect of their areas of 
responsibility. Appropriate key performance 
indicators are used to facilitate benchmarking 
and peer group comparison. Financial plans, 
including budgets and forecasts, are regularly 
discussed at Board meetings. From time to 
time, the Board also receives presentations, 
including from non-Board management 
members, on issues of signifi cance or on new 
opportunities for the Group. Directors also 
have access to non-Director management staff 
where appropriate. These ensure that the Board 
will be given the answers it needs. 

Independent Advice
The Board recognises that there may be 
occasions when one or more Director feel it 
is necessary to take independent legal and/or 
fi nancial advice at the Company’s expense. 
There is an agreed procedure to enable 
them to do so, as laid down in our Corporate 
Governance Guidelines. 

Evaluation
Hysan has in place a process of Board 
evaluation in the form of meetings between the 
Chairman and Non-executive Directors without 
management being present. A number of 
meetings were held in 2007.

60

Hysan Annual Report 2007

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
9. BOARD COMMITTEES

Key Facts

→ The Board has three corporate governance-

related committees

→ Work prepared by Audit Committee is found 
in a separate report from the Committee 
(page 79-80)

→ Work performed by the Emoluments Review 
Committee is found in a separate Directors’ 
Remuneration and Interests Report 
(page 72-78) 

In order to provide effective oversight and 
leadership and pursuant to its Corporate 
Governance Guidelines, the Board has 
established three governance-related Board 
Committees. All such Committees have at 
least a majority of Independent non-executive 
Directors. In common with the Board, each 
Committee has access to independent advice 
and counsel as required and each is supported 
by the Company Secretary. The terms of 
reference of these Committees are available on 
the Company website. 

A. Audit Committee
Composition and Meetings Schedule
Hysan’s Audit Committee is chaired by Sir 
David Akers-Jones, Independent non-executive 
Deputy Chairman. Its other members are 
Tom Behrens-Sorensen and Chien Lee. 
All members have experience in reviewing 
or analysing audited fi nancial statements of 
public companies or major organisations. 
The Audit Committee meets no less than 
twice a year. Meetings are also attended by 
invitation by management including the Chief 
Financial Offi cer. 

Roles and Authority
Hysan believes that crucial to the effective 
functioning of an audit committee is a 
clear appreciation of the separate roles of 
management, the external auditors and Audit 

Committee members. Hysan management 
is responsible for selecting the appropriate 
accounting policies and for the preparation of 
the fi nancial statements. The external auditors 
are responsible for auditing and attesting to the 
Group’s fi nancial statements and evaluating 
the Group’s system of internal controls to the 
extent that they consider necessary to support 
their audit report. The Audit Committee, as the 
delegate of the full Board, is responsible for 
overseeing the entire process.

The Audit Committee also has the responsibility 
for reviewing the Group’s “whistle-blowing” 
procedures for employees to raise concerns, 
in confi dence or anonymously, about possible 
breaches of its Code of Ethics and to ensure 
that these arrangements allow proportionate 
and independent investigation of such matters 
and appropriate follow up action.

Activities and Report in 2007
Full details are set out in the “Audit Committee 
Report” on pages 79-80. Two meetings were 
held in 2007 with full attendance.

B. Emoluments Review Committee
Composition and Meetings Schedule
The Group set up an Emoluments Review 
Committee in 1987 to review executive Director 
compensation. The Committee is chaired by Sir 
David Akers-Jones, Independent non-executive 
Deputy Chairman. Its current members are 
Fa-kuang Hu and Dr. Geoffrey Meou-tsen Yeh. 
The Committee generally meets at least once 
every year. 

Roles and Authority
Management makes recommendations to 
the Committee on Hysan’s framework for, 
and cost of, executive Director remuneration 
and the Committee then reviews these 
recommendations. No Director nor any of 
his associates is involved in deciding his own 
remuneration.

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 61

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Corporate Governance Report

Activities and Report in 2007
Full details are set out in the “Directors’ 
Remuneration and Interests Report” on 
pages 72-78. One meeting was held in 
March 2007 to consider executive Directors’ 
compensation. Sir David Akers-Jones and 
Mr. Fa-Kuang Hu attended the meeting.

C. Nomination Committee
Composition
The Board established a Nomination Committee 
in 2005. It is chaired by Peter Ting Chang Lee, 
Chairman of the Board, and its other members 
are Sir David Akers-Jones and Dr. Geoffrey 
Meou-tsen Yeh. The Committee meets when it 
is considered necessary. 

Roles and Authority
The Committee has the responsibility of 
nominating for Board approval candidates to fi ll 
Board vacancies as and when they arise and of 
evaluating the balance of skills, knowledge and 
experience of the Board. It is clearly set out in 
the terms of reference of the Committee that 
the Chairman of the Board shall not chair the 
Committee when it is dealing with the matter of 
succession of the chairmanship.

Activities and Report in 2007
The Committee met once in 2007 with full 
attendance to consider the appointment of 

Mr. Tom Berhrens-Sorensen as Independent 
non-executive Director as from the conclusion 
of the 2007 AGM.

10. SHAREHOLDERS

Key Facts

→ We operate a self-funded programme 
to proactively forward shareholder 
communication materials via nominee 
companies

→ Our AGM promotes shareholder 

communications by providing a business 
session led by Chairman (2007 review 
posted on www.hysan.com.hk)

→ Investor relations programme in place to 
maintain a continuing open dialogue with 
institutional shareholders

→ Corporate Disclosure Policy posted on 

www.hysan.com.hk

→ Detailed information on voting contained in 

AGM circular

The Board and management fully recognise the 
signifi cance in having a governance framework 
that protects shareholder rights and their 
exercise of the same. At the same time, we aim 
to continually improve our communications with 
shareholders and obtain their feedback. 

AGENDA

• 2006 Business Environment Overview

• Management Philosophy

• 2007 Outlook

• Business Activities Review

62

Hysan Annual Report 2007

   
Communication with Shareholders
Accountability to Shareholders and 
Corporate Reporting
Disciplined measurement of our performance is 
an important aspect of our strategy to achieve 
long-term success. Reporting fi nancial and 
non-fi nancial results in a transparent fashion is 
critical, recognising that we are accountable 
to our stakeholders. A number of formal 
communication channels are used to account 
to shareholders for the performance of the 
Group. These include the Annual Report and 
Accounts, Interim Report and Accounts and 
press releases/announcements. 

Constructive Use of AGM
The Board recognises the signifi cance of 
constructive use of AGMs as a useful means to 
enter into a dialogue with private shareholders 
based on mutual understanding of objectives. 
Individual shareholders can put questions to 
the Chairman at the general meeting. Board 
Committee Chairmen, as provided under the 
respective terms of references, attend AGMs to 
respond to any shareholder questions on the 
activities of the Committees.

Since 2004, to enable shareholders to gain 
a better understanding of our business 
activities, we have included a “business review” 
session led by the Chairman in addition to the 
statutory part of the meeting. Topics covered 
at the last AGM included: Year 2006 business 
environment; business activities review and 
outlook. The arrangements were positively 
received by shareholders.

Institutional Shareholders
We are committed to maintaining a continuing 
open dialogue with institutional investors 
and analysts as a means of developing their 
understanding of our strategy, operations, 
management and plans and raising any issues 
they may have. The Chief Financial Offi cer 

participates in regular one-on-one meetings and 
roadshows in Hong Kong as well as overseas.

Corporate Disclosure Policy
We recognise the signifi cance of consistent 
disclosure practices aimed at accurate, 
timely and broadly disseminated disclosure of 
material information about Hysan. A Corporate 
Disclosure Policy is in place, which provides 
guidance for coordinating the disclosure of 
material information to investors, analysts and 
media as well as our processes for results 
announcements. This policy also identifi es who 
may speak on Hysan’s behalf, and outlines the 
responsibility for communications with various 
stakeholders groups.

Shareholder Rights
Self-funded Programme to Proactively 
Forward Shareholder Communication 
Materials via Nominee Companies
Shareholders must be furnished with suffi cient 
and timely information concerning the 
Company and any material developments. 
There is currently no requirement in Hong 
Kong providing for mandatory forwarding 
of shareholder communication materials by 
nominee companies to benefi cial shareholders. 
Since 2005, we have initiated and funded a 
programme inviting major nominee companies 
to proactively forward communication materials 
to shareholders at our expense. Coverage of 
the programme has more than doubled 
since inception.

Provision of Sufficient and 
Timely Information
We recognise the signifi cance of providing 
information to shareholders to enable them 
to make an informed assessment in voting. 
Copies of the Annual Report and fi nancial 
statements and related papers were dispatched 
to shareholders more than 30 days prior to 
the AGM (statutory requirement: 21 days). 

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 63

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Corporate Governance Report

Ordinance, shareholders holding not less than 
5% of the paid up capital of the Company may 
convene an extraordinary general meeting by 
requisition stating the objects of the meeting, 
and deposit the signed requisition at the 
Company’s registered offi ce.

The Hong Kong Companies Ordinance also 
provide for shareholder approval of decisions 
concerning fundamental corporate changes, 
including amendments to the Articles of 
Association, and extraordinary transactions 
including the transfer of all or a substantial part 
of a company’s assets. 

There are no limitations imposed by Hong 
Kong law or the Articles of Association on the 
right of non-residents or foreign persons to hold 
or vote on the Company’s shares other than 
those limitations that would generally apply to 
all shareholders.

Detailed information on voting procedures 
(including procedures for demanding a poll) 
is given in a user-friendly “frequently-asked-
questions-and-answers” format in the AGM 
circular which accompanies the Annual Report. 
Comprehensive information on each resolution 
to be proposed is also provided. 

Voting
To ensure shareholders can obtain a degree 
of control proportionate to their equity 
ownership, the Company intends to conduct 
all voting at general meetings by poll which 
practice has been adopted for our AGMs since 
2004. The poll is conducted by the Company’s 
Registrars and scrutinised by the Group’s 
auditors. Poll results are announced and 
posted on both the Stock Exchange’s and the 
Company’s websites.

Relevant Provisions in Articles of 
Association and Hong Kong Law
Under the Articles of Association of the 
Company and Hong Kong Companies 

“The idea of fair play….applies to the 
distinct separation of the private and 
public entities, as well as the relationship 
between majority and minority shareholders. 
The sense of fair play would become the 
cornerstone of what is now better known as 
‘corporate governance’.”

Extract form Chairman Peter T.C. Lee’s speech at the 
2nd Asia Pacifi c Corporate Governance Conference

64

Hysan Annual Report 2007

Directors’ Report

The Directors submit their report together with the audited fi nancial statements for the year ended 31 December 2007, which 
were approved by the Board of Directors on 13 March 2008.

PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES
The principal activities of the Group continued throughout 2007 to be property investment, management and development. 
Details of the Group’s associates and principal subsidiaries at 31 December 2007 are set out in notes 19 and 41 respectively to 
the consolidated fi nancial statements.

The revenue and result of the Group are principally derived from leasing of investment properties located in Hong Kong; 
accordingly, no segment fi nancial analysis is provided. A detailed review of the development of the business of the Group during 
the year, and likely future developments, is set out in Chairman’s Statement and Management’s Discussion and Analysis of the 
Annual Report.

RESULTS AND APPROPRIATIONS
The results of the Group for the year ended 31 December 2007 are set out in the consolidated income statement on page 84.

An interim dividend of HK12 cents per share amounting to HK$127,232,025 was paid to shareholders during the year.

The Board of Directors recommends the payment of a fi nal dividend of HK48 cents per share with a scrip alternative to the 
shareholders on the register of members on 14 May 2008, absorbing HK$497,985,483. The ordinary dividends proposed and 
paid in respect of the full year 2007 will absorb HK$625,217,508, the balance of the profi t will be retained.

RESERVES
Movements during the year in the reserves of the Group and the Company are set out in the consolidated statement of changes 
in equity on pages 88 and 89 and note 32 to the consolidated fi nancial statements respectively.

INVESTMENT PROPERTIES
All of the Group’s investment properties were revalued by an independent professional valuer at 31 December 2007. The 
revaluation resulted in a surplus of HK$3,130,712,676 as compared to carrying amount and is recognised in the consolidated 
income statement.

Details of movements during the year in the investment properties of the Group are set out in note 15 to the consolidated 
fi nancial statements.

Details of the major investment properties of the Group at 31 December 2007 are set out in the section under Schedule of 
Principal Properties of the Annual Report.

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Details of movements during the year in the property, plant and equipment of the Group and the Company are set out in note 16 
to the consolidated fi nancial statements.

SHARE CAPITAL
Details of movements in the share capital of the Company during the year are set out in note 31 to the consolidated fi nancial 
statements.

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 65

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Report continued

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
The Company is committed to maintaining a high standard of corporate governance and, save as otherwise stated and 
explained in the Corporate Governance Report, has complied throughout the year with the code provisions of the Code on 
Corporate Governance Practice (the “Code”) as set out in Appendix 14 of the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities (the 
“Listing Rules”) on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the “Stock Exchange”).

Further information on the Company’s corporate governance practices is set out in the following separate reports:

(a)  “Corporate Governance Report” (pages 50 to 64) – it gives detailed information on the Company’s compliance with the 

Code, and adoption of local and international best practices;

(b)  “Directors’ Remuneration and Interests Report” (pages 72 to 78) – it gives detailed information of Directors’ remuneration 
and interests (including information on Director’s compensation, service contracts, Directors’ interests in shares; contracts 
and competing business);

(c)  “Audit Committee Report” (pages 79 and 80) – it sets out terms of reference, work performed and fi ndings of the Audit 

Committee for the review year;

(d)  “Internal Controls and Risk Management” (pages 34 to 38) – it sets out the Company’s framework on internal control and 
risks assessment including methodology, control activities, work done during the year and further steps to be done; and

(e)  “Corporate Responsibility Report” – it set out the Company’s Corporate Responsibility Policies and Practices refl ecting its 

commitment to maintaining a high standard of corporate governance.

THE BOARD
The Board currently comprises Peter Ting Chang Lee, Chairman and Pauline Wah Ling Yu Wong, Executive Director and eight 
other non-executive Directors. Sir David Akers-Jones acts as the Independent non-executive Deputy Chairman, also chairing the 
corporate governance-related committees, namely, the Audit Committee and the Emoluments Review Committee. The 
biographies of the Directors as at the date of this Report appear on pages 47 and 48.

Michael Tze Hau Lee and Per Jorgensen stepped down as Managing Director and Independent non-executive Director 
respectively and Tom Behrens-Sorensen was appointed as Independent non-executive Director as from the conclusion of the 
2007 annual general meeting held on 8 May 2007 (“2007 AGM”). Accordingly, Timothy John Smith was appointed as alternate 
Director to Tom Behrens-Sorensen (previously acted as alternate Director to Per Jorgensen) as from the conclusion of the 2007 
AGM. Save as the aforesaid, Raymond Liang-ming Hu, Li Kam Wing, V-nee Yeh served as alternate Directors throughout the 
year.

According to Article 97 of the Company’s current Articles of Association, a Director appointed either to fi ll a casual vacancy or as 
an addition to the Board shall hold offi ce only until the next following annual general meeting.

Under Article 114 of the Company’s current Articles of Association, one-third (or such other number as may be required under 
applicable legislation) of the Directors; and where the applicable number is not an integral number, to be rounded upwards, who 
have been longest in offi ce shall retire from offi ce by rotation.

Details of Board changes effective as from the conclusion of the forthcoming annual general meeting (“2008 AGM”) including 
particulars of Directors seeking re-election at the 2008 AGM are set out in the accompanying circular to shareholders.

The Company has received from each Independent non-executive Director an annual confi rmation of his independence pursuant 
to Rule 3.13 of the Listing Rules and the Company considered all of them to be independent.

DIRECTORS’ INTERESTS IN SHARES
Details of the interests and short positions of the Directors and alternate Director in the shares, underlying shares or debentures 
of the Company and its associated corporations are set out in Directors’ Remuneration and Interests Report on pages 72 to 78.

66

Hysan Annual Report 2007

SUBSTANTIAL SHAREHOLDERS’ AND OTHER PERSONS’ INTERESTS IN SHARES
As at 31 December 2007, the interests or short positions of substantial shareholders and other persons of the Company, in the 
shares and underlying shares of the Company as recorded in the register required to be kept under section 336 of the Securities 
and Futures Ordinance (“SFO”), or as otherwise notifi ed to the Company, were as follows:

Aggregate long positions in shares and underlying shares of the Company

Name 

Lee Hysan Estate Company, Limited 

Lee Hysan Company Limited 

Capacity 

No. of ordinary 
shares held 

Benefi cial owner and interests 
of controlled corporations 

Interests of controlled 
corporations 

433,130,735 
(Note 2)

433,130,735 
(Note 2)

% of the
issued
share
capital
(Note 1)

41.75

41.75

Notes:
(1)  The percentage has been compiled based on the total number of shares of the Company in issue as at 31 December 2007 (i.e. 1,037,469,756 

ordinary shares).

(2)  These interests represent the same block of shares of the Company. 270,118,724 shares were held by Lee Hysan Estate Company, Limited 
(“LHE”) and 163,012,011 shares were held by certain subsidiaries of LHE. LHE is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lee Hysan Company Limited.

Apart from the above, no other interest or short position in the shares or underlying shares of the Company were recorded in the 
register required to be kept under section 336 of the SFO as at 31 December 2007.

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
The Group entered into certain transactions with parties regarded as “Related Parties” under applicable accounting principles. 
These mainly relate to contracts entered into by the Group in the ordinary course of business, which contracts were negotiated 
on normal commercial terms and on an arm’s length basis. Further details are set out in note 39 to the consolidated fi nancial 
statements.

Some of these transactions also constitute “Continuing Connected Transactions” under the Listing Rules, as identifi ed below.

CONTINUING CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS
Certain transactions entered into by the Group constituted continuing connected transactions (the “Transactions”) under the 
Listing Rules. Details of the Transactions as at 31 December 2007 are set out as follows:

I.  Lease granted by the Group
(a)  The Lee Gardens, 33 Hysan Avenue, Hong Kong (“The Lee Gardens”)
The following lease arrangement was entered into by Perfect Win Properties Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company 
and property owner of The Lee Gardens, as landlord, with Oxer Limited (formerly known as “Bonde Limited”), a company 
controlled by Michael Tze Hau Lee, former Managing Director of the Company. Details of the lease arrangement are set out 
below:

Connected person 

Date of agreement 

Terms 

Premises 

Oxer Limited 

Rooms 3703  
  and 3704 and  
  1 carparking  
  space 

30 August 2007   
  (Lease and  
  Supplemental  
  Lease) 

6 July 2007   
  (Carpark Licence  
  Agreement) 

3 years commencing 
  from 1 July 2007  
  (for Room 3703) and 
  35 months commencing  
  from 1 August 2007  
  (for Room 3704) 

34 months commencing 
  from 1 September 
  2007 (for a carparking 
  space)

Annual
consideration
(Note 1)

2007: HK$  507,299
(on pro-rata basis)
2008: HK$ 1,458,060
2009: HK$ 1,458,360
2010: HK$  729,180
(on pro-rata basis)

Hysan Annual Report 2007 67

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Directors’ Report continued

CONTINUING CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS continued
I.  Lease granted by the Group continued
(b)  Lee Gardens Two, 28 Yun Ping Road, Hong Kong (“Lee Gardens Two”)
The following lease arrangements were entered into by Barrowgate Limited (“Barrowgate”), a 65.36% subsidiary of the Company 
and property owner of Lee Gardens Two, as landlord with the following connected persons:

Connected person 

Date of agreement 

Terms 

Premises 

Offi ce units  
  at 28th  
  to 31st Floors

Offi ce units  
  at 28th, 
  30th and 
  31st Floors 

Shop G13 on the 
  Ground Floor and 
  portion of Lower  
  Ground Floor 
  (Shops 11-12)

Shop G13A on the  
  Ground Floor and  
  Shops 2-10 and 
  11-12 on Lower 
  Ground Floor 

Annual
consideration
(Note 1)

2007: HK$  9,572,328
(on pro-rata basis)

2007: HK$  6,805,776
(on pro-rata basis)
2008: HK$ 20,582,424
2009: HK$ 20,582,424
2010: HK$ 13,721,616
(on pro-rata basis)

2007: HK$ 13,267,560
2008: HK$  1,643,808
(on pro-rata basis)

2007: HK$ 

242,097
(on pro-rata basis)
2008: HK$ 10,578,491
2009: HK$ 12,469,416
2010: HK$  9,821,341
(on pro-rata basis)
(Note 6)

Offi ce units  
  at 24th and 
  25th Floors 

2007: HK$  6,596,532
558,431
2008: HK$ 
(on pro-rata basis)

(i)  Jebsen and   

  Company  
  Limited (Note 2) 

10 September  
  2003 

(ii)  Jebsen and  
  Company  
  Limited 

29 June 2007 
  (Note 3) 

4 years   
  commencing from  
  1 September 2003 

3 years  
  commencing from  
  1 September 2007 

(iii)  Hang Seng Bank  
  Limited (Note 2) 

7 June 2006 
  (Note 4) 

3 years  
  commencing from  
  1 October 2006 

(iv)  Hang Seng Bank  

  Limited 

15 October 2007 
  (Note 5) 

(v)  MF Jebsen  

International  

  Limited 
  (Note 7) 

23 April 2004 and 
  a Supplemental 
  Deed of   
  12 July 2004 

72 months commencing  
  from 15 October 2007 
  (for Shops 2-10 on the  
  Lower Ground Floor) 
  68 months commencing  
  from 15 February 2008 
  (for Shop G13A on the 
  Ground Floor and
  Shops 11-12 on the
  Lower Ground Floor)

4 years commencing 
  from 1 February 2004 
  and 3 years and 
  7 months 
  commencing from
  1 July 2004

68

Hysan Annual Report 2007

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CONTINUING CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS continued
I.  Lease granted by the Group continued
(c)  Bamboo Grove, 74-86 Kennedy Road, Hong Kong (“Bamboo Grove”)
The following leases were entered into by Kwong Wan Realty Limited (“Kwong Wan”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the 
Company and property owner of Bamboo Grove as landlord, with LHE, a substantial shareholder of the Company (holding 
41.75% interest) and Atlas Corporate Management Limited (“Atlas”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of LHE. Details of the leases are 
set out below:

Connected person 

Date of agreement 

Terms 

Premises 

(i)  Lee Hysan Estate  
  Company,  
  Limited 

9 November 2005  
  and an extension  
  agreement of  
  1 November 2007 

2 years and  
  2 months   
  commencing  
  from 1 November 
  2005

Penthouse 01 
  on the 36th and  
  37th Floors and 
  1 carparking space

Annual
 consideration
(Note 1)

2007: HK$ 2,690,280
(Note 8)

(ii)  Atlas Corporate  
  Management  
  Limited 

14 December 2005  
  (Formal tenancy  
  agreement executed  
  on 5 January 2006) 

2 years  
  commencing  
  from 16 January  
  2006 

Penthouse 01  
  on the 29th and  
  30th Floors and  
  2 carparking spaces 

2007: HK$ 1,792,920
72,494
2008: HK$ 
(on pro-rata basis)
(Note 9)

(d)  One Hysan Avenue, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
The following lease arrangement was entered into by OHA Property Company Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the 
Company and property owner of One Hysan Avenue, with Atlas. Details of the lease are set out below:

Connected person 

Date of agreement 

Terms 

Premises 

Atlas Corporate  
  Management  
  Limited 

9 November 2005 

3 years   
  commencing   
  from 1 November 
  2005 

Whole of 21st Floor 

Annual
 consideration
(Note 1)

2007: HK$ 1,397,664
2008: HK$ 1,169,800
(on pro-rata basis)

II.  Provision of leasing and property management services to a non-wholly-owned subsidiary 
regarding Lee Gardens Two
The following management agreements were entered into by Hysan Leasing Company Limited and Hysan Property Management 
Limited, both being wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Company, with Barrowgate for the provision of services to Lee Gardens 
Two, including (i) leasing, marketing and lease administration services; and (ii) property management services:

Connected person 

Date of agreement 

Terms 

Premises 

Barrowgate Limited 

25 February 2004 
  and two Supplemental  
  Appointment Letters  
  of 19 July 2004 and  
  7 February 2007 

3 years commencing  
  from 1 April 2004 
  (renewable for  
  a further 3 years) 

Whole premise of 
  Lee Gardens Two 

Annual
 consideration

HK$ 17,443,318 (i)
and
HK$ 2,525,278 (ii)
(Note 10)

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 69

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Report continued

CONTINUING CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS continued
Notes:
1.  The annual consideration are based on current rates of rental and operating charges and (for retail premises) promotional levies for each of the 

relevant fi nancial years. The rental and operating charges and promotional levies (as the case may be) are payable monthly in advance.

2.  Jebsen and Company Limited (“Jebsen and Company”) and Hang Seng Bank Limited (“Hang Seng”) are benefi cial substantial shareholders of 

Barrowgate having equity interest of 10% and 24.64% respectively in Barrowgate.

3.  This is a renewal of the lease mentioned under I(b)(i) above.

4.  Barrowgate entered into a surrender agreement with Hang Seng on 15 October 2007 whereby Hang Seng agreed to surrender the premises 

mentioned under I(b)(iii) above with effect from 14 February 2008.

5.  Barrowgate entered into an agreement for lease on 15 October 2007.

6.  The rent for the period from 15 October 2010 to 14 October 2013 will be reviewed at the then prevailing market rent and to be agreed by 

Barrowgate and Hang Seng.

7.  At the time of entering the lease, MF Jebsen International Limited was considered a connected person by virtue of it being a company controlled 
by an alternate Director of the Company. It has ceased to be a connected person upon expiry of 12 months from the resignation of the alternate 
Director.

8.  The monthly management fees were revised with effect from 1 January 2007. An extension agreement was entered into between Kwong Wan 
and LHE on 1 November 2007 whereby Kwong Wan agreed to extend the term of the lease mentioned under I(c)(i) for a further period of 2 
months commenced from 1 November 2007 and expired on 31 December 2007.

9.  The monthly management fees were revised with effect from 1 January 2007 while the rental remained unchanged.

10.  These represent the actual considerations for the year ending 31 December 2007, calculated on the basis of the fee schedules as prescribed in 

the respective management agreements.

All the Transactions were entered in the ordinary and usual course of business of the respective companies after due 
negotiations on an arm’s length basis with reference to the prevailing market conditions.

Announcements were published regarding the Transactions in accordance with the Listing Rules. The Stock Exchange has 
granted a waiver for the Transactions referred to in section I(b)(v) and section II above by virtue of Rule 14A.42 from strict 
compliance with the requirements of Rules 14A.35, 14A.45 to 14A.47 of the Listing Rules on condition that details of the 
Transactions be included in the Company’s subsequent published annual report for fi nancial years in which the relevant 
Transactions are subsisting. The Company confi rms that it has complied with the disclosure requirements in accordance with 
Chapter 14A of the Listing Rules in so far as they are applicable.

Pursuant to Rule 14A.38 of the Listing Rules, the Board of Directors engaged the auditor of the Company to perform certain 
agreed upon procedures in respect of the Transactions of the Group to assist the Directors to evaluate whether the Transactions:

1.  have received the approval from the Board of Directors;

2.  were in accordance with the pricing policies of the Company where the Transactions involve provision of goods and services 

by the Company;

3.  have been entered into in accordance with the agreement governing such Transactions; and

4.  have not exceeded the cap stated in the relevant announcements.

The auditor has reported the factual fi ndings on these procedures to the Board of Directors that the samples the auditor 
selected for the Transactions were in agreement in respect of items 1, 3 & 4 above and that according to the samples the 
auditor selected, in respect of item 2, the rent charged to the connected persons were either the same or fall within the range of 
rental offered to independent third parties. All Independent non-executive Directors of the Company have reviewed the 
Transactions and the report of the auditor and confi rmed that the respective contracts and terms of the Transactions are:

1.  in the ordinary and usual course of business of the Company;

2.  on normal commercial terms; and

3.  in accordance with the relevant agreement governing them on terms that are fair and reasonable and in the commercial 

interests of the Group as a whole.

70

Hysan Annual Report 2007

INTEREST IN CONTRACTS OF SIGNIFICANCE
The lease arrangement between Barrowgate, a non wholly-owned subsidiary, and Jebsen and Company, of which Hans Michael 
Jebsen is a director and shareholder, also constitutes a contract of signifi cance due to the annual consideration of the lease 
having a percentage ratio of 1.29% from the calculation of the revenue test (the percentage ratio for assets ratio and 
consideration ratio are 0.04% and 0.07% respectively) as at 31 December 2007. Details of the transaction are set out under 
I(b)(i) and (ii) of Continuing Connected Transactions.

MAJOR CUSTOMERS AND SUPPLIERS
The aggregate turnover attributable to the Group’s fi ve largest customers was less than 30% of total turnover.

Details of the Group’s transactions with its major suppliers during the year are set out below:

The largest supplier 
Five largest suppliers in aggregate 

Percentage of the
Group’s total purchases

16%
33%

Save otherwise disclosed, no Director, their associates or shareholders (which to the knowledge of the Directors own more than 
5% of the Company’s issued share capital) were interested, at any time during the year, in the Group’s fi ve largest suppliers.

PURCHASE, SALE OR REDEMPTION OF THE COMPANY’S LISTED SECURITIES
The Company was authorised at the 2007 AGM to purchase its own ordinary shares not exceeding 10% of the aggregate 
nominal amount of its issued share capital at that time. During the year, the Company repurchased its ordinary shares on the 
Stock Exchange when they were signifi cantly trading at a discount in order to enhance shareholder value.

During the year, the Company repurchased its own ordinary shares on the Stock Exchange as follows:

Month of  
repurchase in 2007 

August 
September 
October 
November 

Number of shares of 
nominal value of HK$5  
each repurchased 

871,000 
22,720,000 
100,000 
542,000 

24,233,000 

Consideration per share 

Highest 
HK$ 

19.64 
22.00 
21.00 
23.00 

Lowest 
HK$ 

18.94 
19.40 
20.95 
22.75 

Aggregate
consideration paid
HK$

16,844,269
480,117,127
2,099,650
12,404,450

511,465,496

The repurchased shares were cancelled during the year and the issued share capital of the Company was reduced by the 
nominal value thereof.

Save as disclosed above, neither the Company nor its subsidiaries purchased, sold or redeemed any of the Company’s listed 
securities during the year.

PUBLIC FLOAT
Based on the information that is publicly available to the Company and within the knowledge of the Directors, the Company has 
maintained the prescribed amount of public fl oat during the year and up to the date of this report as required under the Listing 
Rules.

DONATIONS
During the year, the Group made donations totalling HK$1,299,170 for charitable and non-profi t-making organisations.

AUDITOR
A resolution for the re-appointment of Messrs. Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu as auditor of the Company is to be proposed at the 
2008 AGM.

On behalf of the Board
Peter Ting Chang Lee
Chairman

Hong Kong, 13 March 2008

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 71

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Remuneration and Interests Report

DIRECTOR COMPENSATION
Executive Director emoluments
The Board fi rst established the Emoluments Review Committee in 1987 to review and determine the remuneration of executive 
Directors.

The Committee is chaired by Sir David Akers-Jones, Independent non-executive Deputy Chairman. Its other members are Fa-
kuang Hu and Dr. Geoffrey Meou-tsen Yeh.

Management makes recommendations to the Committee on the Company’s framework for, and cost of, executive Director 
remuneration and the Committee then reviews these recommendations. On matters other than those concerning him, the 
Chairman or Chief Executive Offi cer may be invited to Committee meetings. No Director is involved in deciding his own 
remuneration.

The Group’s remuneration policy seeks to provide a fair market remuneration in a form and value to attract, retain and motivate 
high quality staff and at the same time to refl ect the importance of aligning awards with shareholder interests. Remuneration 
packages are set at levels to ensure comparability and competitiveness with Hong Kong-based companies competing within a 
similar talent pool, with particular emphasis on the property industry. Independent professional advice will be sought to 
supplement internal resources where appropriate.

Following a review completed in November 2003 by the Committee, the Company has developed a policy that involves top 
management (the Chairman and Chief Executive Offi cer) having a remuneration package consisting of several remuneration 
components. The fi xed part of the package is a combination of basic salary and benefi ts. The proportion of performance-based 
compensation has been increased under this new structure. In addition, there are arrangements for a long-term incentive plan. 
The new levels of remuneration, taking effect as from December 2003, refl ected comparator market information and advice from 
independent consultants (Watson Wyatt Hong Kong Limited). Such salary levels would be reviewed by the Committee on an 
annual basis.

The Committee met in March 2007 to review executive Director compensation packages. Except Dr. Geoffrey Meou-tsen Yeh, 
all members attended the meeting without any executive Director presence. Details are set out in note 8 to the consolidated 
fi nancial statements. The most recent meeting of the Committee was held in March 2008 with all members being present to 
review executive Director compensation packages.

Details of Directors’ (including individual executive Directors) emoluments and options are set out in notes 8 and 40 respectively 
to the consolidated fi nancial statements.

Non-executive Director emoluments
The Directors’ fees are subject to shareholder approval at general meeting. The non-executive Directors (including the 
Independent non-executive Directors) received fees totalling HK$1,100,356 and the Independent non-executive Deputy 
Chairman received a total annual fee of HK$230,000 for 2007 (Please refer to note 8 to the consolidated fi nancial statements).

Taking into consideration the level of responsibility, experience and abilities required of the Directors, and fees offered for similar 
positions in comparable companies, new levels of Directors’ fees were reviewed and approved at the annual general meeting 
(“AGM”) held on 10 May 2005:

Board of Directors
Chairman 
Deputy Chairman 
Director 

Audit Committee
Chairman 
Member 

Other Committees
Chairman 
Member 

Per annum
HK$

140,000
120,000
100,000

60,000
30,000

30,000
20,000

The non-executive Directors received no other compensation from the Group except for the fees disclosed above.

None of the non-executive Directors receive any pension benefi ts from the Company, nor do they participate in any bonus or 
incentive schemes.

72

Hysan Annual Report 2007

   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DIRECTOR COMPENSATION continued
Long-term incentives: Share Option Schemes
The Company has granted options under two executive share option schemes. The purpose of both schemes was to strengthen 
the link between individual staff and shareholder interests. The power of grant to executive Directors is vested in the Emoluments 
Review Committee and endorsed by all Independent non-executive Directors as required under Rules Governing the Listing of 
Securities on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the “Listing Rules”). As approved by the Board, either the Chairman or 
the former Managing Director may make grants to management staff below executive Director level.

Key terms of the share option schemes of the Company are summarised as follows:

The 1995 Share Option Scheme (the “1995 Scheme”)
The 1995 Scheme was approved by shareholders on 28 April 1995 and had a term of 10 years. It expired on 28 April 2005. All 
outstanding options granted under the 1995 Scheme will continue to be valid and exercisable in accordance with the provisions 
of the 1995 Scheme.

As at 31 December 2007, shares issuable under options granted under the 1995 scheme was 303,667 representing less than 
0.03% of the issued share capital of the Company.

The maximum entitlement of each participant is substantially below the limit set out under the scheme rules (being 25% of the 
maximum number of shares in respect of which options may at any time be granted under the 1995 Scheme). The exercise 
price was initially fi xed at 80% of the average of the closing prices of the shares on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited 
(the “Stock Exchange”) for the 20 trading days immediately preceding the date of grant or the nominal value of a share 
whichever is the greater. The exercise price for options granted after 1 September 2001 was amended to comply with 
amendments to the Listing Rules. Consideration paid on each grant of option was HK$1.00, with full payment for exercise price 
to be made on exercise of the relevant option.

Grants made prior to 8 March 2005 had a holding period of 2 years and a vesting period of 5 years.

The 2005 Share Option Scheme (the “2005 Scheme”)
The Company adopted the 2005 Scheme (together with the 1995 Scheme are referred to as the “Schemes”) at its AGM held on 
10 May 2005, which has a term of 10 years and will expire on 9 May 2015.

The maximum number of shares in respect of which options may be granted under the 2005 Scheme and any other share 
option scheme of the Company shall not exceed such number of shares as required under the Listing Rules, currently being 
10% of the shares in issue (being 104,996,365 shares) as at 10 May 2005, the date of the AGM approving the 2005 Scheme. 
Under the Listing Rules, a listed issuer may seek approval by its shareholders in general meeting for “refreshing” the 10% limit 
under the scheme. The limit on the number of shares which may be issued upon exercise of all outstanding options granted and 
yet to be exercised under the 2005 Scheme and any other share option scheme of the Company must not exceed 30% of the 
shares in issue from time to time (or such number of shares as required under the Listing Rules). No options may be granted if 
such grant will result in this 30% limit being exceeded.

The maximum entitlement of each participant under the 2005 Scheme must not during any 12-month period exceed such 
number of shares as required under the Listing Rules (which is 1% of the total shares in issue as at the date of shareholders’ 
approval). The exercise price shall be at least the highest of (i) the closing price of the shares as stated in the Stock Exchange’s 
daily quotations sheet on the date of grant; (ii) the average of the closing prices of the shares as stated in the Stock Exchange’s 
daily quotations sheets for the fi ve business days immediately preceding the date of grant; and (iii) the nominal value of the 
shares. Consideration to be paid on each grant of option is HK$1.00, with full payment for exercise price to be made on 
exercise of the relevant option.

Grant and vesting structures
With effect from 8 March 2005, the Board has approved a new grant and vesting structure. Grants will be made on a periodic basis. 
Vesting period is three years in equal proportion. Size of grant will be determined by reference to base salary multiple and job 
grades. A clear performance criterion will be a key driver. The Board will review the grant and vesting structures from time to time.

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 73

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Remuneration and Interests Report continued

DIRECTOR COMPENSATION continued
Long-term incentives: Share Option Schemes continued
Grant movements during the year
During the year, a total of 863,000 shares options were granted under the 2005 Scheme.

As at 31 December 2007, an aggregate of 1,297,667 shares are issuable for options granted under the Schemes, representing 
approximately 0.13% of the issued share capital of the Company.

As at the date of this Report, 99,342,765 shares are issuable under the Schemes representing 9.58% of the issued share 
capital.

Details of options granted, exercised, cancelled/lapsed and outstanding under the Schemes during the year are as follows:

Changes during the year

Date of 
grant 

Exercise 
price 
HK$ 

Exercisable 
period 

Name 

1995 Scheme
Executive Director

Balance 
as at 

1.1.2007  Granted 

Exercised 

  Cancelled/ 

Balance
as at 
lapsed  31.12.2007

Peter Ting Chang Lee  

7.1.1999 

9.22 

(Note a) 

Eligible employees 

30.3.2005 

15.85 

(Note b) 

2005 Scheme
Executive Directors

7.1.2001 – 
6.1.2009 

30.3.2005 – 
29.3.2015 

1,350,000 

– 

(1,350,000) 

– 

–

(Note g)

401,333 

– 

(77,666) 

(20,000)  303,667

(Note h) 

(Note j)

Peter Ting Chang Lee 

6.3.2007 

  (Note c) 

21.38 
(Note e) 

6.3.2007 – 
5.3.2017

–  235,000 

– 

–  235,000

Michael Tze Hau Lee  

10.5.2005 

16.60 

  (Note d) 

30.3.2006 

22.00 

6.3.2007 

Pauline Wah Ling Yu Wong  
  (Note c) 

6.3.2007 

21.38 
(Note e) 

21.38 
(Note e) 

Eligible employees 
  (Note b) 

9.8.2005 

18.79 

10.5.2005 – 
9.5.2015 

30.3.2006 – 
29.3.2016 

6.3.2007 – 
5.3.2017 

6.3.2007 – 
5.3.2017

9.8.2005 – 
8.8.2015 

12.10.2005 

18.21  12.10.2005 – 
11.10.2015 

30.3.2006 

22.00 

26.6.2006 

20.11 

30.3.2006 – 
29.3.2016 

26.6.2006 – 
25.6.2016

30.3.2007 

21.25 
(Note f) 

30.3.2007 – 
29.3.2017 

240,000 

– 

(80,000)  (160,000) 

(Note i) 

(Note j)

188,000 

– 

–  (188,000) 

(Note j)

–  185,000 

–  (185,000) 

(Note j)

–

–

–

–  108,000 

– 

–  108,000

96,000 

120,000 

325,000 

110,000 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(96,000) 

(Note j)

–  (120,000) 

(Note j)

–

–

–  (106,000)  219,000

(Note j)

– 

–  110,000

–  335,000 

– 

(13,000)  322,000

(Note j)

2,830,333  863,000 

(1,507,666)  (888,000) 1,297,667

74

Hysan Annual Report 2007

   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
DIRECTOR COMPENSATION continued
Long-term incentives: Share Option Schemes continued
Grant movements during the year continued
Notes:
(a)  Options granted to Peter Ting Chang Lee had a holding period of 2 years and a vesting period of 5 years.

(b)  Eligible employees are working under employment contracts that are regarded as “continuous contracts” for the purposes of the Employment 

Ordinance. The options granted under the Schemes have vesting periods of 3 years in equal proportions.

(c)  Options granted to Peter Ting Chang Lee and Pauline Wah Ling Yu Wong have a vesting period of 3 years in equal proportions.

(d)  Options granted to Michael Tze Hau Lee had a vesting period of 3 years in equal proportions. Michael Tze Hau Lee stepped down from the 

Board of the Company as from the conclusion of the 2007 AGM held on 8 May 2007.

(e)  The closing price of the shares of the Company immediately before the date of grant (as of 5 March 2007) was HK$20.50.

(f)  The closing price of the shares of the Company immediately before the date of grant (as of 29 March 2007) was HK$21.30.

(g)  The weighted average closing price of the shares of the Company immediately before the date on which the options were exercised was 

HK$19.60.

(h)  The weighted average closing price of the shares of the Company immediately before the dates on which the options were exercised was 

HK$21.09.

(i)  The weighted average closing price of the shares of the Company immediately before the date on which the options were exercised was 

HK$21.20.

(j)  The options for 888,000 shares lapsed during the year upon the stepping down of Michael Tze Hau Lee and resignations of certain eligible 

employees.

Apart from the above, the Company had not granted any share option under the Schemes to any other persons as required to 
be disclosed under Rule 17.07 of the Listing Rules.

Particulars of the Company’s share option schemes are set out in note 40 to the consolidated fi nancial statements.

Value of share options
Pursuant to Rule 17.08 of the Listing Rules, the value of the share options granted during the year is as follows to be expensed 
through the Group’s income statement over the three-year vesting period of the options.

The fair values of share options granted by the Company were determined by using Black-Scholes option pricing model (the 
“Model”). The Model is one of the commonly used models to estimate the fair value of an option. The variables and assumptions 
used in computing the fair value of the share options are based on the management’s best estimate. The value of an option 
varies with different variables of certain subjective assumptions. Any change in the variables so adopted may materially affect the 
estimation of the fair value of an option. The inputs into the Model were as follows:

Closing share price at the date of grant 
Exercise price 
Risk free rate (Note a) 
Expected life of option (Note b) 
Expected volatility (Note c) 
Expected dividend per annum (Note d) 
Estimated fair value per share option 

Date of grant

30.3.2007 

6.3.2007

HK$21.25 
HK$21.25 
4.192% 
10 years 
29.53% 
HK$0.416 
HK$7.47 

HK$20.80
HK$21.38
4.188%
10 years
30.12%
HK$0.416
HK$7.21

Notes:
(a)  Risk free rate: being the approximate yields of 10-year Exchange Fund Notes traded on the date of grant, matching the expected life of each 

option.

(b)  Expected life of option: being the period of 10 years commencing on the date of grant, based on management’s best estimates for the effects of 

non-transferability, exercise restriction and behavioural consideration.

(c)  Expected volatility: being the approximate historical volatility of closing prices of the shares of the Company in the past one year immediately 

before the date of grant.

(d)  Expected dividend per annum: being the approximate average annual cash dividend for the past fi ve fi nancial years.

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 75

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Remuneration and Interests Report continued

SERVICE CONTRACTS
No Director proposed for re-election at the forthcoming AGM has a service contract with the Company or any of its subsidiaries 
that is not determinable by the Group within one year without payment of compensation (other than statutory compensation).

DIRECTORS’ INTERESTS IN SHARES
As at 31 December 2007, the interests and short positions of the Directors and alternate Director in the shares, underlying 
shares or debentures of the Company and its associated corporations (within the meaning of Part XV of the Securities and 
Futures Ordinance (“SFO”)) as recorded in the register required to be kept under section 352 of the SFO; or as otherwise notifi ed 
to the Company and the Stock Exchange pursuant to the Model Code for Securities Transactions by Directors of Listed Issuers 
(the “Model Code”), are set out below:

Aggregate long positions in shares and underlying shares of the Company

No. of ordinary shares held

Name 

Personal 
interests 

Family 
interests 

Corporate 
interests 

Other 
interests 

Total 

% of the 
issued 
share capital
(Note a)

Peter Ting Chang Lee 

3,370,708 

Fa-kuang Hu 

– 

– 

– 

– 

200,000 

(Note b)

– 

– 

3,370,708 

200,000 

0.325

0.019

Hans Michael Jebsen 

60,000 

– 

2,432,914 

– 

2,492,914 

0.240

Tom Behrens-Sorensen 

Chien Lee 

10,000 

800,000 

Deanna Ruth Tak Yung Rudgard 

1,871,600 

Pauline Wah Ling Yu Wong 

Geoffrey Meou-tsen Yeh 

V-nee Yeh   
  (alternate to
  Geoffrey Meou-tsen Yeh) 

154,000 

258,288 

43,259 

(Note c)

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

10,000 

800,000 

1,871,600 

154,000 

258,288 

43,259 

0.001

0.077

0.180

0.015

0.025

0.004

Notes:
(a)  This percentage has been compiled based on the total number of shares of the Company in issue (i.e. 1,037,469,756 ordinary shares) as at 31 

December 2007.

(b)  Such shares were held by a company which was wholly-owned by Fa-kuang Hu and he was deemed to have benefi cial interest in all these 

shares.

(c)  Such shares were held through a corporation in which Hans Michael Jebsen was a member entitled to exercise no less than one-third of the 

voting power at general meeting.

Certain executive Directors of the Company have been granted share options under the Company’s share option schemes 
(details are set out in the section headed “Long-term incentives: Share Option Schemes” above). These constitute interests in 
underlying shares of equity derivatives of the Company under the SFO.

76

Hysan Annual Report 2007

   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
DIRECTORS’ INTERESTS IN SHARES continued
Aggregate long positions in shares of associated corporations
Listed below are certain Directors’ interests in the shares of Barrowgate Limited (“Barrowgate”), a 65.36% subsidiary of the 
Company, and Parallel Asia Engineering Company Limited (“PAECL”), a 25% associate of the Company.

Name 

Hans Michael Jebsen 
Fa-kuang Hu 
Raymond Liang-ming Hu 
  (alternate to Fa-kuang Hu) 

No. of ordinary shares held 

Corporate  
interests 

Other 
interests 

1,000 
– 
– 

– 
5,000 
5,000 

% of
 the issued
share capital

10 (Note a)
50 (Note b)
50 (Note b)

Total 

1,000 
5,000 
5,000 

Notes:
(a)  Jebsen and Company Limited (“Jebsen and Company”) held a 10% interest in the issued share capital in Barrowgate through a wholly-owned 
subsidiary. Hans Michael Jebsen was deemed to be interested in the shares of Barrowgate by virtue of being the controlling shareholder of 
Jebsen and Company.

(b)  Ryoden Development Limited (“Ryoden Development”) held a 50% interest in the issued share capital in PAECL through a wholly-owned 

subsidiary. Fa-kuang Hu and Raymond Liang-ming Hu were deemed to be interested in the shares of PAECL by virtue of their interests as a 
founder and/or benefi ciaries of a discretionary trust which had an indirect controlling interest in Ryoden Development.

Apart from the above, no other interest or short position in the shares, underlying shares or debentures of the Company or any 
associated corporations as at 31 December 2007 were recorded in the register required to be kept under Section 352 of the 
SFO; or as otherwise notifi ed to the Company and the Stock Exchange pursuant to the Model Code.

Compliance of the Model Code for Securities Transactions by Directors of Listed Issuers
The Company has adopted the Model Code set out in Appendix 10 to the Listing Rules as its own code of conduct regarding 
Director’s securities transactions. All Directors have confi rmed, following specifi c enquiry by the Company, that they have 
complied with the required standards set out in the Model Code throughout the review year.

DIRECTORS’ INTERESTS IN CONTRACTS
During the review year, certain Directors are parties to contracts with the Group. These contracts constitute Related Party 
Transactions, Connected Transactions or Contracts of Signifi cance under applicable accounting or regulatory rules (details are 
disclosed in the Directors’ Report).

DIRECTORS’ INTERESTS IN COMPETING BUSINESS
The Group is engaged principally in the property investment, development and management of high quality investment 
properties in Hong Kong. The following Directors (excluding Independent non-executive Directors during 2007) are considered to 
have interests in other activities (the “Deemed Competing Business”) that compete or are likely to compete with the said core 
business of the Group, all within the meaning of the Listing Rules.

For the reasons stated below, and coupled with the diligence of the Group’s Independent non-executive Directors and the Audit 
Committee, the Group is capable of carrying on its business independent of and at arm’s length from the Deemed Competing 
Business.

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 77

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
Directors’ Remuneration and Interests Report continued

DIRECTORS’ INTERESTS IN COMPETING BUSINESS continued
(i)  Peter Ting Chang Lee, Anthony Hsien Pin Lee, Chien Lee, Michael Tze Hau Lee (former Managing Director who stepped 

down from the Board on 8 May 2007) and Dr. Deanna Ruth Tak Yung Rudgard are members of the founding Lee family 
whose range of general investment activities include property investments in Hong Kong and overseas. In light of the size 
and dominance of the portfolio of the Group, such disclosed Deemed Competing Business is considered immaterial.

(ii)  Fa-kuang Hu and his alternate, Raymond Liang-ming Hu, are directors and have an indirect substantial interest in 

Designcase Limited and its subsidiaries, which are engaged in investment holding, property investment and development, 
property agency and management, project management in both the People’s Republic of China and Hong Kong.

(iii)  Hans Michael Jebsen and his alternate, Kam Wing Li, hold the offi ces of directors in each of Jebsen and Company and 

Jebsen China Services Limited (the “Companies”) and some of their subsidiaries, of which their business activities include, 
inter alia, investment holding and property investment in both the People’s Republic of China and Hong Kong. Mr. Jebsen is 
also a substantial shareholder of the Companies.

Mr. Jebsen is an independent non-executive director of The Wharf (Holdings) Limited whose business includes, inter alia, 
property investment, development and management in both the People’s Republic of China and Hong Kong.

(iv)  Chien Lee is an independent non-executive director of Swire Pacifi c Limited whose business includes, inter alia, property 

investment and trading in Hong Kong, the People’s Republic of China and the USA.

The Company’s management team is separate and independent from that of the companies identifi ed in (ii), (iii) and (iv) above. In 
addition, save and except Peter Ting Chang Lee and Michael Tze Hau Lee, the relevant Directors have non-executive roles and 
are not involved in the Company’s day-to-day operations and management. 

By Order of the Board
Wendy Wen Yee Yung
Company Secretary

Hong Kong, 13 March 2008

78

Hysan Annual Report 2007

Audit Committee Report

The Audit Committee has three members chaired by Sir David Akers-Jones, Independent non-executive Deputy Chairman, and 
has a majority of Independent non-executive Directors. Under its terms of reference, the Committee oversees the Company’s 
fi nancial reporting process; it also reviews the Company’s internal control and risk management system and its relationship with 
external auditors. The Committee presents a report to the Board on its fi ndings after each Committee meeting.

The Committee held two meetings during 2007, on 5 March and 14 August. All members attended the above meetings. A 
meeting was also held on 1 February 2008 to consider matters relating to the new Internal Audit function. The meeting held on 
12 March 2008 was to consider the consolidated fi nancial statements for the year ended 31 December 2007. Signifi cant 
matters, as reviewed and discussed in the relevant meetings, include the following:

FINANCIAL REPORTING
In the process of fi nancial reporting, management is responsible for the preparation of Group fi nancial statements including the 
selection of suitable accounting policies. External auditors are responsible for auditing and attesting to Group fi nancial 
statements and evaluating Group’s system of internal control in such regard. The Committee oversees the respective work of 
management and external auditors to endorse the processes and safeguards employed by them.

•  August 2007 

: 

•  March 2008 

: 

The Committee reviewed and recommended to the Board for approval the unaudited 
consolidated fi nancial statements for the fi rst six months of 2007, prior to public announcement 
and fi ling. The Committee received reports from and met with external auditors to discuss the 
scope of their review and fi ndings. The Committee had discussions with management on 
signifi cant judgments affecting Group’s fi nancial statements. 

The Committee reviewed and discussed with management and external auditors the 2007 
consolidated fi nancial statements included in the Annual Report 2007, prior to public 
announcement and fi ling. The Committee received reports from and met with the external auditors 
to discuss the general scope of their audit work and fi ndings. The Committee had discussions 
with management with regard to signifi cant judgments affecting the Group fi nancial statements. 
Based on these review and discussions, and the report of the external auditors, the Audit 
Committee recommended to the Board approval of the consolidated fi nancial statements for the 
year ended 31 December 2007, with the Independent Auditor’s Report thereon.

REVIEW OF INTERNAL CONTROL AND RISK MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS
•  August 2007  

: 

The Committee considered management’s report on implementing the improvement areas 
identifi ed by an independent international accounting fi rm following its 2006 review of internal 
controls, and was satisfi ed as to the same. 

•  February 2008 

: 

The Committee met to discuss the work performed by the new internal audit function set up 
during the second half of 2007. The Committee also considered and approved audit plan for 
2008.

•  March 2008 

: 

The Committee, upon receiving confi rmation of management and internal audit, was satisfi ed as 
to the effectiveness of the Company’s internal controls system; that there were no matters of 
material concerns relating to fi nancial, operational, or compliance controls. 

Hysan Annual Report 2007 79

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Audit Committee Report continued

RELATIONSHIP WITH EXTERNAL AUDITORS
•  August 2007 and   : 
  March 2008 

The Committee reviewed and considered the terms of engagement of the external auditors in 
respect of the 2007 interim results reviews and 2007 annual audit and the related results 
announcement and annual confi rmation.

The Committee assessed the auditor’s independence and objectivity. Factors considered include 
the arrangement for lead audit partner rotation, and the provision of non-audit services by the 
auditors. The Committee recommended to the Board that the shareholders be asked to 
re-appoint Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu as the Group’s external auditors for 2008.

For the year ended 31 December 2007, external auditors received a total fee of HK$2,341,840 
(audit services: HK$1,700,000; non-audit services HK$301,000; and tax compliance services: 
HK$340,840).

Members of the Audit Committee
David Akers-Jones (Chairman)
Chien Lee
Tom Behrens-Sorensen

Hong Kong, 13 March 2008

80

Hysan Annual Report 2007

 
Financial Statements 
and Valuation

82  Directors’ Responsibilities for the Financial Statements
Independent Auditor’s Report
83 
84  Consolidated Income Statement

85-86  Consolidated Balance Sheet

87  Balance Sheet

88-89  Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
90-91  Consolidated Cash Flow Statement

  92-134  Notes to the Financial Statements
  135-136  Five-Year Financial Summary 

137  Report of the Valuer
138  Schedule of Principal Properties

  139-140  Shareholding Analysis

Recurring Underlying Profi t Up 

Overall Turnover Up  

25.8%
7.9%
18.8%
20.0%

Dividends Up 

Like-for-Like Turnover Up 

Hysan Annual Report 2007 81

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ Responsibilities for the Financial Statements

The Companies Ordinance requires the Directors to prepare fi nancial statements for each fi nancial year which give a true and fair 
view of the state of affairs of the Company and of the Group as at the end of the fi nancial year and of their respective profi t or 
loss for the year then ended.  In preparing the fi nancial statements, the Directors are required to:

(a)  select suitable accounting policies and apply them on a consistent basis, making judgments and estimates that are prudent, 

fair and reasonable;

(b)  state the reasons for any signifi cant departure from accounting standards; and

(c)  prepare the fi nancial statements on the going concern basis, unless it is not appropriate to presume that the Company and 

the Group will continue in business for the foreseeable future.

The Directors are responsible for keeping proper accounting records, for safeguarding the assets of the Company and of the 
Group and for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

82

Hysan Annual Report 2007

Independent Auditor’s Report

TO THE MEMBERS OF HYSAN DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LIMITED
希慎興業有限公司
(incorporated in Hong Kong with limited liability)

We have audited the fi nancial statements of Hysan Development Company Limited (the “Company”) and its subsidiaries 
(collectively referred to as the “Group”) set out on pages 84 to 134, which comprise the consolidated and Company’s balance 
sheets as at 31 December 2007, and the consolidated income statement, the consolidated statement of changes in equity and 
the consolidated cash fl ow statement for the year then ended, and a summary of signifi cant accounting policies and other 
explanatory notes.

Directors’ responsibility for the financial statements
The directors of the Company are responsible for the preparation and the true and fair presentation of these fi nancial statements 
in accordance with Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards issued by the Hong Kong Institute of Certifi ed Public Accountants 
and the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance. This responsibility includes designing, implementing and maintaining internal control 
relevant to the preparation and the true and fair presentation of the fi nancial statements that are free from material misstatement, 
whether due to fraud or error; selecting and applying appropriate accounting policies; and making accounting estimates that are 
reasonable in the circumstances.

Auditor’s responsibility
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these fi nancial statements based on our audit and to report our opinion solely to 
you, as a body, in accordance with section 141 of the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance and for no other purpose. We do not 
assume responsibility towards or accept liability to any other person for the contents of this report. We conducted our audit in 
accordance with Hong Kong Standards on Auditing issued by the Hong Kong Institute of Certifi ed Public Accountants. Those 
standards require that we comply with ethical requirements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance as to 
whether the fi nancial statements are free from material misstatement.

An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the fi nancial statements. 
The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of 
the fi nancial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control 
relevant to the entity’s preparation and true and fair presentation of the fi nancial 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 the directors, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the fi nancial statements.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is suffi cient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.

Opinion
In our opinion, the fi nancial statements give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Company and of the Group as at 
31 December 2007 and of the Group’s profi t and cash fl ows for the year then ended in accordance with Hong Kong Financial 
Reporting Standards and have been properly prepared in accordance with the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance.

Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu
Certifi ed Public Accountants

Hong Kong, 13 March 2008

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 83

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Income Statement

For the year ended 31 December 2007

Turnover 
Property expenses 

Gross profi t 
Investment income 
Other gains and losses 
Administrative expenses 
Finance costs 
Change in fair value of investment properties 
Share of results of associates 

Profi t before taxation 
Taxation  

Profi t for the year 

Attributable to:
  Equity holders of the Company 
  Minority interests 

Dividends
  Paid 

  Proposed 

Earnings per share (expressed in HK cents)
  Basic 

  Diluted 

 Notes 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

5 

6 
7 

10 

11 

12 

13 

13 

14 

14 

1,368 
(208) 

1,160 
98 
302 
(106) 
(175) 
3,131 
452 

4,862 
(745) 

4,117 

3,949 
168 

4,117 

549 

498 

1,268
(240)

1,028
147
201
(111)
(163)
2,576
120

3,798
(558)

3,240

3,099
141

3,240

474

422

375.46 

375.25 

293.96

293.70

84

Hysan Annual Report 2007

   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
Consolidated Balance Sheet

At 31 December 2007

Non-current assets
  Investment properties 
  Property, plant and equipment 
  Prepaid lease payments 
  Investments in associates 
  Available-for-sale investments 
  Other fi nancial assets 
  Other receivables 

Current assets
  Accounts receivable and other receivables 
  Amount due from an associate 
  Held for trading investments 
  Other fi nancial assets 
  Time deposits 
  Cash and bank balances 

Current liabilities
  Accounts payable and accruals 
  Other fi nancial liabilities 
  Rental deposits from tenants 
  Amounts due to minority shareholders 
  Taxation payable 

Net current assets 

Total assets less current liabilities 

Non-current liabilities
  Borrowings 
  Other fi nancial liabilities 
  Rental deposits from tenants 
  Deferred taxation 

Net assets 

Notes 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

15 
16 
17 
19 
20 
21 
22 

22 
24 
25 
21 
26 
26 

27 
21 

28 

29 
21 

30 

35,711 
73 
123 
1,011 
2,479 
235 
22 

39,654 

66 
590 
95 
1 
478 
6 

32,473
69
123
630
1,745
2
23

35,065

159
642
–
2
382
3

1,236 

1,188

278 
40 
124 
327 
270 

1,039 

197 

253
40
102
327
225

947

241

39,851 

35,306

2,861 
17 
215 
3,910 

7,003 

2,821
45
183
3,349

6,398

32,848 

28,908

Hysan Annual Report 2007 85

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Consolidated Balance Sheet continued
At 31 December 2007

Capital and reserves
  Share capital 
  Reserves 

Equity attributable to equity holders of the Company 
Minority interests 

Total equity 

Notes 

31 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

5,187 
26,465 

31,652 
1,196 

32,848 

5,276
22,552

27,828
1,080

28,908

The consolidated fi nancial statements on pages 84 to 134 were approved and authorised for issue by the Board of Directors on 
13 March 2008 and are signed on its behalf by:

Peter Ting Chang Lee 
Director 

David Akers-Jones
Director

86

Hysan Annual Report 2007

   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance Sheet

At 31 December 2007

Non-current assets
  Property, plant and equipment 
  Investments in subsidiaries 
  Investments in associates 
  Available-for-sale investments 
  Other receivables 

Current assets
  Accounts receivable and other receivables 
  Amounts due from subsidiaries 
  Time deposits 
  Cash and bank balances 

Current liabilities
  Accounts payable and accruals 
  Amounts due to subsidiaries 
  Taxation payable 

Net current assets 

Net assets 

Capital and reserves
  Share capital 
  Reserves 

Total equity 

Notes 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

16 
18 
19 
20 
22 

22 
23 
26 
26 

27 
23 

31 
32 

5 
– 
– 
2 
1 

8 

2 
12,781 
– 
6 

12,789 

19 
42 
50 

111 

12,678 

12,686 

5,187 
7,499 

7
– 
–
2
2

11

2
13,017
46
4

13,069

22
104
68

194

12,875

12,886

5,276
7,610

12,686 

12,886

The fi nancial statements on pages 84 to 134 were approved and authorised for issue by the Board of Directors on 13 March 
2008 and are signed on its behalf by:

Peter Ting Chang Lee 
Director 

David Akers-Jones
Director

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 87

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity

For the year ended 31 December 2007

Attributable to equity holders of the Company  

At 1 January 2006 

Change in fair value of available-for-sale investments 
Surplus on revaluation of properties for own use 
Exchange differences on translation of an overseas associate 
Change in fair value of derivatives designated as cash fl ow hedge 
Transfer to profi t and loss for derivatives designated as
  cash fl ow hedge 

Net income recognised directly in equity 
Transfer to profi t and loss on disposal of available-for-sale investments 
Profi t for the year 

Total recognised income and expenses for the year  

Issue of shares pursuant to scrip dividend schemes 
Issue of shares under share option schemes 
Recognition of equity-settled share-based payments 
Interim dividend declared for 2006 
Dividends paid during the year (note 13) 
Proposed fi nal dividend for 2006 

Share 
capital 
HK$ million 

Share 
premium 
HK$ million 

5,266 

1,420 

–    
–    
–    
–    

–    

–    
–    
–    

–    

9 
1 
–    
–    
–    
–    

–    
–    
–    
–    

–    

–    
–    
–    

–    

30 
3 
–    
–    
–    
–    

At 31 December 2006 

5,276 

1,453 

Change in fair value of available-for-sale investments 
Surplus on revaluation of properties for own use 
Deferred taxation arising on revaluation of properties for own use  
Exchange differences on translation of an overseas associate 
Change in fair value of derivatives designated as cash fl ow hedge 
Transfer to profi t and loss for derivatives designated as
  cash fl ow hedge 

Net income recognised directly in equity 
Transfer to profi t and loss on disposal of available-for-sale investments 
Profi t for the year 

Total recognised income and expenses for the year  

Issue of shares pursuant to scrip dividend schemes 
Issue of shares under share option schemes 
Cancellation upon repurchase of own shares 
Expenses for repurchase of own shares 
Recognition of equity-settled share-based payments 
Forfeiture of share options 
Interim dividend declared for 2007 
Dividends paid during the year (note 13) 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

– 
– 
– 

– 

25 
7 
(121) 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

– 
– 
– 

– 

79 
9 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

At 31 December 2007 

5,187 

1,541 

Share 
options 
reserve 
HK$ million 

Investments 
revaluation 
reserve 
HK$ million 

2 

–    
–    
–    
–    

–    

–    
–    
–    

–    

–    
(1) 
4 
–    
–    
–    

5 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

– 
– 
– 

– 

– 
(1) 
– 
– 
4 
(2) 
– 
– 

6 

796 

687    
–    
–    
–    

–    

687 
(170) 

–    

517 

–    
–    
–    
–    
–    
–    

1,313 

1,192 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

1,192 
(382) 
– 

810 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

2,123 

88

Hysan Annual Report 2007

   
   
 
 
   
   
 
 
Attributable to equity holders of the Company

Properties 
revaluation 
reserve 
HK$ million 

Hedging 
reserve 
HK$ million 

Translation 
reserve 
HK$ million 

Capital 
redemption 
reserve 
HK$ million 

General 
reserve 
HK$ million 

Dividend 
reserve 
HK$ million 

Retained 
profi ts 
HK$ million 

Total 
HK$ million 

Minority 
interests 
HK$ million 

Total
HK$ million

1 

–    
1 
–    
–    

–    

1 
–    
–    

1 

–    
–    
–    
–    
–    
–    

2 

– 
8 
(1) 
– 
– 

– 

7 
– 
– 

7 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

9 

35 

(4) 

155 

100 

369 

16,527 

24,667 

986 

25,653

–    
–    
–    

(11) 

(22) 

(33) 

–    
–    

(33) 

–    
–    
–    
–    
–    
–    

2 

– 
– 
– 
– 
1 

(2) 

(1) 
– 
– 

(1) 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

1 

–    
–    
5 
–    

–    

5 
–    
–    

5 

–    
–    
–    
–    
–    
–    

1 

– 
– 
– 
(2) 
– 

– 

(2) 
– 
– 

(2) 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

(1) 

–    
–    
–    
–    

–    

–    
–    
–    

–    

–    
–    
–    
–    
–    
–    

–    
–    
–    
–    

–    

–    
–    
–    

–    

–    
–    
–    
–    
–    
–    

–    
–    
–    
–    

–    

–    
–    
–    

–    

–    
–    
–    

105 
(474) 
422 

–    
–    
–    
–    

–    

–    
–    

3,099 

687 
1 
5 
(11) 

(22) 

660 
(170) 
3,099 

3,099 

3,589 

–    
–    
–    

(105) 

39 
3 
4 
–    

–    

(474) 

(422) 

–    

–    
–    
–    
–    

–    

–    
–    

141 

141 

–    
–    
–    
–    

(47) 

–    

687
1
5
(11)

(22)

660
(170)
3,240

3,730

39
3
4
–   
(521)
–   

155 

100 

422 

19,099 

27,828 

1,080 

28,908

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

– 
– 
– 

– 

– 
– 
121 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

276 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

– 
– 
– 

– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

– 
– 
– 

– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
127 
(549) 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

– 
– 
3,949 

1,192 
8 
(1) 
(2) 
1 

(2) 

1,196 
(382) 
3,949 

3,949 

4,763 

– 
– 
(511) 
(2) 
– 
2 
(127) 
– 

104 
15 
(511) 
(2) 
4 
– 
– 
(549) 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

– 
– 
168 

168 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
(52) 

1,192
8
(1)
(2)
1

(2)

1,196
(382)
4,117

4,931

104
15
(511)
(2)
4
–
–
(601)

100 

– 

22,410 

31,652 

1,196 

32,848

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 89

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Cash Flow Statement

For the year ended 31 December 2007

Operating activites
Profi t before taxation 
Adjustments for:
  Other gains and losses 
  Finance costs 
  Change in fair value of investment properties 
  Share of results of associates 
  Dividend income 
  Interest income 
  Reversal of impairment loss recognised in respect of
    investment in an associate 
  Recovery of a loan to an associate 
  Depreciation of property, plant and equipment 
  Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment 
  Share-based payment expenses 

Operating cash fl ows before movements in working capital 
Decrease in accounts receivable and other receivables 
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable and accruals 
Increase in rental deposits from tenants 

Cash generated from operations 
Hong Kong profi ts tax paid 
Hong Kong profi ts tax refund 

Net cash from operating activities 

Investing activities
Interest received 
Dividends received from available-for-sale investments 
Proceeds on disposal of investment properties 
Proceeds on disposal of available-for-sale investments 
Proceeds upon maturity of principal-protected deposits 
Proceeds on disposal of held for trading investments 
Receipts from equity derivatives 
Repayment from associates 
Repayment from investees 
Recovery of a loan to an associate 
Additions to investment properties 
Purchases of property, plant and equipment 
Purchases of available-for-sale investments 
Additions to principal-protected deposits 
Purchases of held for trading investments 
Payment for equity derivatives 

Net cash from investing activities 

90

Hysan Annual Report 2007

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

4,862 

3,798

(302) 
175 
(3,131) 
(452) 
(53) 
(30) 

(11) 
– 
7 
– 
4 

1,069 
3 
58 
54 

1,184 
(141) 
1 

1,044 

34 
53 
– 
394 
81 
21 
169 
132 
8 
– 
(125) 
(3) 
– 
(278) 
(123) 
(151) 

212 

(201)
163
(2,576)
(120)
(41)
(18)

–
(87)
7
1
4

930
27
(7)
29

979
(61)
–

918

23
37
1
187
–
–
–
–
19
87
(81)
(6)
(92)
–
–
–

175

   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Financing activities
Interest paid 
Bank charges 
Medium Term Note Programme expenses 
Payment for hedging expenses 
Dividends paid 
Dividends paid to minority shareholders of a subsidiary 
Repayment of unsecured bank loans 
Purchases of fi xed rate notes  
Consideration paid for repurchase of shares 
Expenses paid for repurchase of shares 
Proceeds on exercise of share options 

Net cash used in fi nancing activities 

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 

Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January 

Cash and cash equivalents at 31 December 

Analysis of the balances of cash and cash equivalents
Time deposits 
Cash and bank balances 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

(151) 
(8) 
(1) 
(2) 
(445) 
(52) 
– 
– 
(511) 
(2) 
15 

(1,157) 

99 

385 

484 

478 
6 

484 

(136)
(7)
(1)
– 
(435)
(47)
(1,337)
(150)
–
–
3

(2,110)

(1,017)

1,402

385

382
3

385

Hysan Annual Report 2007 91

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Notes to the Financial Statements

For the year ended 31 December 2007

1.  GENERAL
The Company is a public listed company incorporated in Hong Kong and its shares are listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong 
Kong Limited (the “Stock Exchange”). The addresses of the registered offi ce and principal place of business of the Company are 
disclosed in the shareholder information section of the annual report.

The principal activities of the Company and its subsidiaries (collectively referred to as the “Group”) are property investment, 
management and development.

These fi nancial statements are presented in Hong Kong dollars, which is the same as the functional currency of the Company.

2.  APPLICATION OF NEW AND REVISED HONG KONG FINANCIAL REPORTING STANDARDS (“HKFRSs”)
In the current year, the Group has adopted, for the fi rst time, the following new standard, amendment and interpretations (“new 
HKFRSs”) issued by the Hong Kong Institute of Certifi ed Public Accountants (“HKICPA”), which are effective for the Group’s 
fi nancial year beginning on 1 January 2007.

HKAS 1 (Amendment) 
HKFRS 7 
HK(IFRIC) – INT 7 

HK(IFRIC) – INT 8 
HK(IFRIC) – INT 9 
HK(IFRIC) – INT 10 

Capital Disclosures
Financial Instruments: Disclosures
Applying the Restatement Approach under HKAS 29 Financial Reporting in
  Hyperinfl ationary Economies
Scope of HKFRS 2
Reassessment of Embedded Derivatives
Interim Financial Reporting and Impairment

The adoption of the new HKFRSs had no material effect on how the results and fi nancial position for the current or prior 
accounting periods have been prepared and presented. Accordingly, no prior year adjustment has been required.

The Group has not early applied the following new and revised standards or interpretations that have been issued but not yet 
effective.

HKAS 1 (Revised) 
HKAS 23 (Revised) 
HKFRS 8 
HK(IFRIC) – INT 11 
HK(IFRIC) – INT 12 
HK(IFRIC) – INT 13 
HK(IFRIC) – INT 14 

Presentation of Financial Statements 1
Borrowing Costs 1
Operating Segments 1
HKFRS 2 – Group and Treasury Share Transactions 2
Service Concession Arrangements 3
Customer Loyalty Programmes 4
HKAS 19 – The Limit on a Defi ned Benefi t Asset, Minimum Funding Requirements 
  and their Interaction 3

1  Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009.
2  Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 March 2007.
3  Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2008.
4  Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 July 2008.

The Directors of the Company anticipate that the application of these standards or interpretations will have no material impact 
on the results and the fi nancial position of the Group.

3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
These fi nancial statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis except for certain properties and fi nancial 
instruments, which are measured at revalued amounts or fair values, as explained in the accounting policies set out below.

These fi nancial statements have been prepared in accordance with HKFRSs issued by the HKICPA and the Hong Kong 
Companies Ordinance. In addition, these fi nancial statements include applicable disclosures required by the Rules Governing the 
Listing of Securities on the Stock Exchange (the “Listing Rules”). The principal accounting policies adopted are as follows:

Basis of consolidation
The consolidated fi nancial statements incorporate the fi nancial statements of the Company and entities controlled by the 
Company (its subsidiaries). Control is achieved where the Company has the power to govern the fi nancial and operating policies 
of an entity so as to obtain benefi ts from its activities.

The results of subsidiaries acquired or disposed of during the year are included in the consolidated income statement from the 
effective date of acquisition or up to the effective date of disposal, as appropriate.

92

Hysan Annual Report 2007

 
 
3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES continued
Basis of consolidation continued
Where necessary, adjustments are made to the fi nancial statements of subsidiaries to bring their accounting policies into line 
with those used by other members of the Group.

All intra-group transactions, balances, income and expenses are eliminated on consolidation.

Minority interests in the net assets of consolidated subsidiaries are presented separately from the Group’s equity therein. Minority 
interests in the net assets consist of the amount of those interests at the date of the original business combination and the 
minority’s share of changes in equity since the date of the combination. Losses applicable to the minority in excess of the 
minority’s interest in the subsidiary’s equity are allocated against the interests of the Group except to the extent that the minority 
has a binding obligation and is able to make an additional investment to cover the losses.

Investments in subsidiaries
Investments in subsidiaries are included in the Company’s balance sheet at cost less any identifi ed impairment loss. The results 
of subsidiaries are accounted for by the Company on the basis of dividends received and receivable during the year.

Investments in associates
An associate is an entity over which the Group has signifi cant infl uence and that is neither a subsidiary nor an interest in a joint 
venture. Signifi cant infl uence is the power to participate in the fi nancial and operating policy decisions of the investee but is not 
control or joint control over those policies.

The results, assets and liabilities of associates are incorporated in the consolidated fi nancial statements using the equity method 
of accounting. Under the equity method, investments in associates are carried in the consolidated balance sheet at cost as 
adjusted for post-acquisition changes in the Group’s share of the net assets of the associate, less any identifi ed impairment loss. 
When the Group’s share of losses of an associate equals or exceeds its interest in that associate (which includes any long-term 
interests that, in substance, form part of the Group’s net investment in the associate), the Group discontinues recognising its 
share of further losses. An additional share of losses is provided for and a liability is recognised only to the extent that the Group 
has incurred legal or constructive obligations or made payments on behalf of that associate.

Any excess of the Group’s share of the net fair value of the identifi able assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities over the cost of 
acquisition, after reassessment, is recognised immediately in profi t or loss.

Where a group entity transacts with an associate of the Group, profi ts and losses are eliminated to the extent of the Group’s 
interest in the relevant associate.

Investments in associates are included in the Company’s balance sheet at cost less any identifi ed impairment loss. The results of 
associates are accounted for by the Company on the basis of dividends received and receivable during the year.

Investment properties
Investment properties are properties held to earn rental and/or for capital appreciation.

On initial recognition, investment properties are measured at cost, including any directly attributable expenditure. Subsequent to 
initial recognition, investment properties are measured at their fair values using the fair value model. Gains or losses arising from 
changes in the fair value of investment property are included in profi t or loss for the period in which they arise.

An investment property is derecognised upon disposal or when the investment property is permanently withdrawn from use or 
no future economic benefi ts are expected from its disposals. 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 income 
statement in the year in which the item is derecognised.

Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost or fair value less subsequent accumulated depreciation and accumulated 
impairment losses.

Buildings held for use in the production or supply of goods or services, or for administrative purposes, are stated in the balance 
sheet at their revalued amounts, being the fair values at the date of revaluation less any subsequent accumulated depreciation 
and any subsequent accumulated impairment losses. Revaluations are performed with suffi cient regularity such that the carrying 
amount does not differ materially from that which would be determined using fair values at the balance sheet date.

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 93

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements continued
For the year ended 31 December 2007

3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES continued
Property, plant and equipment continued
Any revaluation increase arising on revaluation of buildings is credited to the properties revaluation reserve, except to the extent 
that it reverses a revaluation decrease of the same asset previously recognised as an expense, in which case the increase is 
credited to the consolidated income statement to the extent of the decrease previously charged. A decrease in net carrying 
amount arising on revaluation of an asset is dealt with as an expense to the extent that it exceeds the balance, if any, on the 
properties revaluation reserve relating to a previous revaluation of that asset. On the subsequent sale or retirement of a revalued 
asset, the attributable revaluation surplus is transferred to retained profi ts.

Depreciation is provided to write off the cost or fair value of items of property, plant and equipment over their estimated useful 
lives and after taking into account of their estimated residual value, using the straight-line method.

An item of property, plant and equipment is derecognised upon disposal or when no future economic benefi ts are expected to 
arise from the continued use of the asset. 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 item) is included in the consolidated income statement in the 
year in which the item is derecognised.

Prepaid lease payments
The land and buildings elements of a lease of land and buildings are considered separately for the purpose of lease 
classifi cation. To the extent that the allocation of the lease payments between the land and buildings elements can be made 
reliably, the leasehold interests in land are classifi ed as prepaid lease payments, which are carried at cost less subsequent 
accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses, and is amortised to the consolidated income statement on a 
straight-line basis over the terms of relevant land leases.

Impairment of non-financial assets
At each balance sheet date, the Group reviews the carrying amounts of its assets to determine whether there is any indication 
that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If the recoverable amount of an asset is estimated to be less than its 
carrying amount, the carrying amount of the asset is reduced to its recoverable amount. An impairment loss is recognised 
immediately in profi t or loss, unless the relevant asset is carried at a revalued amount, in which case the impairment loss is 
treated as a revaluation decrease.

Where an impairment loss subsequently reverses, the carrying amount of the asset is increased to the revised estimate of its 
recoverable amount, but so that the increased carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been 
determined had no impairment loss been recognised for the asset in prior years. A reversal of an impairment loss is recognised 
immediately in profi t or loss, unless the relevant asset is carried at revalued amount, in which case the reversal of the impairment 
loss is treated as a revaluation increase.

Financial instruments
Financial assets and fi nancial liabilities are recognised on the balance sheet when a group entity becomes a party to the 
contractual provisions of the instrument. Financial assets and fi nancial liabilities are initially measured at fair value. Transaction 
costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition or issue of fi nancial assets and fi nancial liabilities (other than fi nancial assets 
and fi nancial liabilities at fair value through profi t or loss) are added to or deducted from the fair value of the fi nancial assets or 
fi nancial liabilities, as appropriate, on initial recognition. Transaction costs directly attributable to the acquisition of fi nancial assets 
or fi nancial liabilities at fair value through profi t or loss are recognised immediately in profi t or loss.

Financial assets
The Group’s fi nancial assets are classifi ed into one of the three categories, including (i) fi nancial assets at fair value through profi t 
or loss (“FVTPL”), (ii) loans and receivables and (iii) available-for-sale fi nancial assets. The classifi cation depends on the nature 
and purpose of the fi nancial assets and is determined at the time of initial recognition. All regular way purchases or sales of 
fi nancial assets are recognised and derecognised on a trade date basis. Regular way purchases or sales are purchases or sales 
of fi nancial assets that require delivery of assets within the time frame established by regulation or convention in the 
marketplace. The accounting policies adopted in respect of each category of fi nancial assets are set out below.

Financial assets at FVTPL
Financial assets are classifi ed as at FVTPL where the fi nancial asset is either held for trading or it is designated as at FVTPL.

A fi nancial asset is classifi ed as held for trading if it has been acquired principally for the purpose of selling in the near future or it 
is a derivative that is not designated and effective as a hedging instrument.

A fi nancial asset other than the one held for trading may be designated as at FVTPL upon initial recognition if it contains one or 
more embedded derivatives and HKAS 39 permits the entire combined contract (asset or liability) to be designated as at FVTPL.

94

Hysan Annual Report 2007

 
 
3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES continued
Financial instruments continued
Financial assets continued
Financial assets at FVTPL continued
At each balance sheet date subsequent to initial recognition, fi nancial assets at FVTPL are measured at fair value, with changes 
in fair value recognised directly in profi t or loss in the period in which they arise. The net gain or loss recognised in profi t or loss 
includes any dividend or interest earned on the fi nancial asset.

Loans and receivables
Loans and receivables are non-derivative fi nancial assets with fi xed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active 
market. At each balance sheet date subsequent to initial recognition, loans and receivables (including accounts receivable and 
other receivables, amount due from an associate, time deposits and bank balances) are carried at amortised cost using the 
effective interest method, less any identifi ed impairment losses (see accounting policy on impairment of fi nancial assets below).

The effective interest method is a method of calculating the amortised cost of a fi nancial asset and of allocating interest income 
over the relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash receipts (including all 
fees on points paid or received that form an integral part of the effective interest rate, transaction costs and other premiums or 
discounts) through the expected life of the fi nancial asset or, where appropriate, a shorter period.

Available-for-sale financial assets
Available-for-sale fi nancial assets are non-derivatives that are either designated as such or not classifi ed as fi nancial assets at 
FVTPL or loans and receivables. At each balance sheet date subsequent to initial recognition, available-for-sale fi nancial assets 
(including certain equity securities investments) are measured at fair value. Changes in fair value are recognised in equity in the 
investments revaluation reserve with the exception of impairment losses, which are recognised directly in profi t or loss. Where 
the fi nancial asset is disposed of or is determined to be impaired, at which time, the cumulative gain or loss previously 
recognised in equity is removed from equity and recognised in profi t or loss (see accounting policy on impairment of fi nancial 
assets below).

For available-for-sale equity investments that do not have a quoted market price in an active market and whose fair value cannot 
be reliably measured, they are measured at cost less any identifi ed impairment losses at each balance sheet date subsequent to 
initial recognition (see accounting policy on impairment of fi nancial assets below).

Impairment of financial assets
Financial assets, other than those at FVTPL, are assessed for indicators of impairment at each balance sheet date. Financial 
assets are impaired when there is objective evidence that, as a result of one or more events that occurred after the initial 
recognition of the fi nancial asset, the estimated future cash fl ows of the fi nancial assets have been impacted.

For an available-for-sale equity investment, a signifi cant or prolonged decline in the fair value of that investment below its cost is 
considered to be objective evidence of impairment.

For all other fi nancial assets, objective evidence of impairment could include:
•  signifi cant fi nancial diffi culty of the issuer or counterparty; or
•  default or delinquency in interest or principal payments; or
• 

it becoming probable that the borrower will enter bankruptcy or fi nancial re-organisation.

For fi nancial assets carried at amortised cost, an impairment loss is recognised in profi t or loss when there is objective evidence 
that the asset is impaired, and is measured as the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of the 
estimated future cash fl ows discounted at the original effective interest rate.

For fi nancial assets carried at cost, the amount of the impairment loss is measured as the difference between the asset’s 
carrying amount and the present value of the estimated future cash fl ows discounted at the current market rate of return for a 
similar fi nancial asset. Such impairment loss will not be reversed in subsequent periods.

The carrying amount of the fi nancial asset is reduced by the impairment loss directly for all fi nancial assets with the exception of 
accounts receivables and amount due from an associate, where the carrying amount is reduced through the use of an allowance 
account (if any). Changes in the carrying amount of the allowance account are recognised in profi t or loss. When an account 
receivable or amount due from an associate is considered uncollectible, it is written off against the allowance account. 
Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously written off are credited to profi t or loss.

For fi nancial assets measured at amortised cost, if, in a subsequent period, the amount of impairment loss decreases and the 
decrease can be related objectively to an event occurring after the impairment losses was recognised, the previously recognised 
impairment loss is reversed through profi t or loss to the extent that the carrying amount of the asset at the date of impairment is 
reversed does not exceed what the amortised cost would have been had the impairment not been recognised.

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 95

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements continued
For the year ended 31 December 2007

3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES continued
Financial instruments continued
Financial assets continued
Impairment of financial assets continued
Impairment losses on available-for-sale equity investments will not be reversed in profi t or loss in subsequent periods. Any 
increase in fair value subsequent to impairment loss is recognised directly in equity. For available-for-sale debt investments, 
impairment losses are subsequently reversed if an increase in the fair value of the investment can be objectively related to an 
event occurring after the recognition of the impairment loss. 

Derecognition of financial assets
Financial assets are derecognised when the rights to receive cash fl ows from the assets expire or, the fi nancial assets are 
transferred and the Group has transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of the fi nancial assets. On 
derecognition of a fi nancial asset, the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the sum of the consideration received 
and receivable and the cumulative gain or loss that had been recognised directly in equity is recognised in profi t or loss.

Financial liabilities and equity
Financial liabilities and equity instruments issued by a group entity are classifi ed according to the substance of the contractual 
arrangements entered into and the defi nitions of a fi nancial liability and an equity instrument. 

An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of the Group after deducting all of its 
liabilities. The Group’s fi nancial liabilities are generally classifi ed into (i) fi nancial liabilities at FVTPL and (ii) other fi nancial liabilities. 
The accounting policies adopted in respect of fi nancial liabilities and equity instruments are set out below.

Financial liabilities at FVTPL
Financial liabilities at FVTPL, that are held for trading, comprise derivatives that are not designated and effective as hedging 
instruments.

At each balance sheet date subsequent to initial recognition, fi nancial liabilities at FVTPL are measured at fair value, with 
changes in fair value recognised directly in profi t or loss in the period in which they arise. The net gain or loss recognised in profi t 
or loss includes any interest paid on the fi nancial liabilities.

Other financial liabilities
Other fi nancial liabilities (including accounts payable and accruals, rental deposits from tenants, amounts due to minority 
shareholders and borrowings) are subsequently measured at amortised cost, using the effective interest method. In respect of 
the fi xed rate notes and the zero coupon notes, the carrying amounts are further adjusted for the gain or loss attributable to the 
hedged risk.

The effective interest method is a method of calculating the amortised cost of a fi nancial liability and of allocating interest 
expense over the relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash payments 
through the expected life of the fi nancial liability, or, where appropriate, a shorter period.

Interest expense is recognised on an effective interest basis for fi nancial liabilities, other than those fi nancial liability designated 
as at FVTPL, of which the interest expense is included in net gains or losses.

Equity instruments
Equity instruments issued by the Company are recorded at the proceeds received, net of direct issue costs.

Consideration paid to repurchase the Company’s own equity instruments are deducted from equity. No gain or loss is 
recognised in profi t or loss.

Derecognition of financial liabilities
Financial liabilities are derecognised when the obligation specifi ed in the relevant contract is discharged, cancelled or expires. 
The difference between the carrying amount of the fi nancial liability derecognised and the consideration paid and payable is 
recognised in profi t or loss.

Derivative financial instruments and hedging
Derivatives are initially recognised at fair value at the date a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently remeasured 
to their fair values at each balance sheet date. The resulting gain or loss is recognised in profi t or loss immediately unless the 
derivative is designated and effective as a hedging instrument, in which event the timing of the recognition in profi t or loss 
depends on the nature of the hedge relationship. The Group designates certain derivatives to hedge its exposure against interest 
rate and foreign exchange rate fl uctuation.

96

Hysan Annual Report 2007

 
3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES continued
Financial instruments continued
Embedded derivatives
Derivatives embedded in non-derivative host contracts are treated as separate derivatives when their risks and characteristics 
are not closely related to those of the host contracts and the host contracts are not measured at fair value with changes in fair 
value recognised in profi t or loss.

Hedge accounting
The Group designates certain derivatives as hedging instruments as either fair value hedge or cash fl ow hedge.

At the inception of the hedging relationship, the entity documents the relationship between the hedging instrument and the 
hedged item, along with its risk management objectives and its strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions. 
Furthermore, at the inception of the hedge and on an ongoing basis, the Group documents whether the hedging instrument that 
is used in a hedging relationship is highly effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash fl ows of the hedged item.

Fair value hedge
Changes in the fair values of derivatives that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges are recorded in profi t or loss 
immediately, together with any changes in the fair values of the hedged items that are attributable to the hedged risk.

Hedge accounting is discontinued when the Group revokes the hedging relationship, the hedging instrument expires or is sold, 
terminated, or exercised, or no longer qualifi es for hedge accounting. 

Cash flow hedge
The effective portion of changes in the fair values of derivatives that are designated and qualify as cash fl ow hedges are deferred 
in equity. The gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognised immediately in profi t or loss as other gains or losses.

Amounts deferred in equity are recycled in profi t or loss in the periods when the hedged item is recognised in profi t or loss.

Hedge accounting is discontinued when the Group revokes the hedging relationship, the hedging instrument expires or is sold, 
terminated, or exercised, or no longer qualifi es for hedge accounting. For a hedge of the foreign currency risk or interest rate risk 
of a fi rm commitment, when the hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated, or exercised, or no longer qualifi es for hedge 
accounting, the cumulative gain or loss that was deferred in equity from the period when the hedge was effective shall remain 
separately recognised in equity until the forecast transactions ultimately recognised in profi t or loss.

Revenue recognition
Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable.

Rental income is recognised on a straight-line basis over the term of the relevant lease.

Management fee income and security service income are recognised when services are rendered.

Dividend income from investments including fi nancial assets at FVTPL is recognised when the shareholders’ right to receive 
payments has been established.

Interest income from a fi nancial asset excluding fi nancial assets at FVTPL is accrued on a time basis, by reference to the 
principal outstanding and at the effective interest rate applicable, which is the rate that exactly discounts the estimated future 
cash receipts through the expected life of the fi nancial asset to that asset’s net carrying amount.

Leases
Leases are classifi ed as fi nance leases whenever the terms of the lease transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of 
ownership to the lessee. All other leases are classifi ed as operating leases.

The Group as lessor
Rental income from operating leases is recognised in the consolidated income statement on a straight-line basis over the term 
of the relevant lease. Initial direct costs incurred in negotiating and arranging an operating lease are added to the carrying 
amount of the leased asset and recognised as an expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

The Group as lessee
Rentals payable under operating leases, including the leasehold interests in land, are charged to profi t or loss on a straight-line 
basis over the term of the relevant lease. Benefi ts received and receivable as an incentive to enter into an operating lease are 
recognised as a reduction of rental expense over the lease term on a straight-line basis.

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 97

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements continued
For the year ended 31 December 2007

3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES continued
Foreign currencies
In preparing the fi nancial statements of each individual group entity, transactions in currencies other than the functional currency 
of that entity (foreign currencies) are recorded in its functional currency (i.e. the currency of the primary economic environment in 
which the entity operates) at the rates of exchanges prevailing on the dates of the transactions. At each balance sheet date, 
monetary items denominated in foreign currencies are retranslated at the rates prevailing on the balance sheet date. Non-
monetary items that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are not retranslated.

Exchange differences arising on the settlement of monetary items, and on the translation of monetary items, are recognised in 
profi t or loss in the period in which they arise, except for exchange differences arising on a monetary item that forms part of the 
Group’s net investment in a foreign operation, in which case, such exchange differences are recognised in equity in the 
consolidated fi nancials statements.

For the purposes of presenting the consolidated fi nancial statements, the assets and liabilities of the Group’s foreign operations 
are translated into the presentation currency of the Company (i.e. Hong Kong dollars) at the rate of exchange prevailing at the 
balance sheet date, and their income and expenses are translated at the average exchange rates for the year, unless exchange 
rates fl uctuate signifi cantly during the period, in which case, the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of transactions are used. 
Exchange differences arising, if any, are recognised as a separate component of equity (the translation reserve). Such exchange 
differences are recognised in profi t or loss in the period in which the foreign operation is disposed of. 

Borrowing costs
All borrowing costs are recognised as and included in fi nance costs in the consolidated income statement in the period in which 
they are incurred. 

Retirement benefit costs
Payments to the Mandatory Provident Fund Scheme (“MPF Scheme”) are charged as an expense when employees have 
rendered service entitling them to the contributions.

Taxation
Income tax expense represents the sum of the tax currently payable and deferred tax. 

Current tax
The tax currently payable is based on taxable profi t for the year. Taxable profi t differs from profi t as reported in the consolidated 
income statement because it excludes items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and it further 
excludes items that are never taxable or deductible. The Group’s liability for current tax is calculated using tax rates that have 
been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date.

Deferred tax
Deferred tax is recognised on differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in the fi nancial statements and 
the corresponding tax bases used in the computation of taxable profi t, and is accounted for using the balance sheet liability 
method. Deferred tax liabilities are generally recognised for all taxable temporary differences and deferred tax assets are 
recognised to the extent that it is probable that taxable profi ts will be available against which deductible temporary differences 
can be utilised. Such assets and liabilities are not recognised if the temporary difference arises from goodwill or from the initial 
recognition (other than in a business combination) of other assets and liabilities in a transaction that affects neither the taxable 
profi t nor the accounting profi t.

Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for taxable temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries and associates, 
except where the Group is able to control the reversal of the temporary difference and it is probable that the temporary 
difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each balance sheet date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer 
probable that suffi cient taxable profi ts will be available to allow all or part of the asset to be recovered.

Deferred tax is calculated at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the period when the liability is settled or the asset 
realised. Deferred tax is charged or credited to profi t or loss, except when it relates to items charged or credited directly to 
equity, in which case the deferred tax is also dealt with in equity.

98

Hysan Annual Report 2007

3.  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES continued
Equity-settled share-based payment transactions
The fair value of services received determined by reference to the fair value of share options granted at the grant date is 
expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting period, with a corresponding increase in equity (share options reserve).

At each balance sheet date, the Group revises its estimates of the number of options that are expected to ultimately vest. The 
impact of the revision of the estimates, if any, is recognised in profi t or loss over the remaining vesting period, with a 
corresponding adjustment to share options reserve.

At the time when the share options are exercised, the amount previously recognised in share options reserve will be transferred 
to share premium. When the share options are forfeited after the vesting date or are still not exercised at the expiry date, the 
amount previously recognised in share options reserve will be transferred to retained profi ts.

4.  CRITICAL ACCOUNTING JUDGEMENTS AND KEY SOURCES OF ESTIMATION UNCERTAINTY
In the application of the Group’s accounting policies, which are described in note 3, the management of the Company are 
required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities that are not readily 
apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors 
that are considered to be relevant. 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 affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future 
periods if the revision affects both current and future periods.

The followings are the key assumptions concerning the future, and other key sources of estimation uncertainty at the balance 
sheet date, that have a signifi cant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within 
the next fi nancial year.

Fair value of investment properties
At the balance sheet date, the Group’s investment properties are stated at fair value of HK$35,711 million (2006: HK$32,473 
million) based on the valuation performed by an independent qualifi ed professional valuer. In determining the fair value, the 
valuers have based on market value existing use basis which involves, inter-alia, certain estimates, including comparable market 
transactions, appropriate capitalisation rates and reversionary income potential and redevelopment potential. In relying on the 
valuation, management has exercised their judgement and is satisfi ed that the method of valuation is refl ective of the current 
market conditions.

Fair values of financial instruments
Financial instruments, such as interest rate swaps, cross currency swaps, foreign exchange derivatives and equity derivatives, 
are carried at the balance sheet at fair value, as disclosed in note 21. The best evidence of fair value is quoted prices in an active 
market, where quoted prices are not available for a particular fi nancial instrument, the Group uses the market values determined 
by independent fi nancial institutions or internal or external valuation models to estimate the fair value. The use of methodologies, 
models and assumptions in pricing and valuing these fi nancial assets and liabilities is subjective and requires varying degrees of 
judgment by management, which may result in signifi cantly different fair values and results. Details of the assumptions used and 
of the results of sensitivity analyses regarding these assumptions are provided in note 34.

5.  TURNOVER
Turnover represents gross rental income from investment properties for the year.

As the turnover and results of the Group are principally derived from investment properties located in Hong Kong, no business 
or geographical segment analysis is presented.

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 99

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements continued
For the year ended 31 December 2007

6.  INVESTMENT INCOME

Investment income comprises:

Dividends from
  – listed investments 
  – unlisted investments 
Interest income 
Reversal of impairment loss recognised in respect of
  investment in an associate 
Recovery of a loan to an associate 
Sundry income 

Investment income earned on fi nancial assets, analysed by category of asset, is as follows:

Loans and receivables (including time deposits and bank balances) 
Available-for-sale equity investments 

Investment income earned on non-fi nancial assets 

Income recognised in respect of fi nancial assets designated as at FVTPL is disclosed in note 7.

7.  OTHER GAINS AND LOSSES

Other gains and losses comprise:

Gain on fair value change of fi nancial assets
  designated as at FVTPL 
(Loss) gain on fair value change of fi nancial assets
  or fi nancial liabilities classifi ed as held for trading 
Recycling of gains from reserve on disposal of
  available-for-sale equity investments 
Gain (loss) on hedging instruments under fair value hedge 
(Loss) gain on hedged items under fair value hedge 
Hedge ineffectiveness on cash fl ow hedges 

8.  DIRECTORS’ EMOLUMENTS

Directors’ fees 
Other emoluments
  Basic salaries, housing and other allowances 
  Bonus 
  Share-based payments (note 40) 
  Retirement benefi ts scheme contributions 

100

Hysan Annual Report 2007

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

41 
12 
30 

11 
– 
4 

98 

41
– 
18

– 
87
1

147

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

24 
60 

84 
14 

98 

105
41

146
1

147

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

6 

(99) 

382 
41 
(28) 
– 

302 

–

20

170
(3)
6
8

201

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

1 

9 
2 
1 
– 

13 

2

11
2
1
– 

16

   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
8.  DIRECTORS’ EMOLUMENTS continued
The emoluments paid or payable to each of the Directors of the Company for the two years ended 31 December 2007, 
calculated with reference to their employment as Directors of the Company, are set out below:

Executive Directors
Peter Ting Chang Lee (Note b) 
Pauline Wah Ling Yu Wong 
Michael Tze Hau Lee (Notes c and d) 

Non-executive Directors
Fa-kuang Hu 
Hans Michael Jebsen 
Anthony Hsien Pin Lee 
Chien Lee 
Dr. Deanna Ruth Tak Yung Rudgard 

Independent non-executive Directors
Sir David Akers-Jones 
Dr. Geoffrey Meou-tsen Yeh 
Tom Behrens-Sorensen (Note e) 
Per Jorgensen (Note f) 

Executive Directors
Peter Ting Chang Lee (Note b) 
Pauline Wah Ling Yu Wong 
Michael Tze Hau Lee (Note c) 

Non-executive Directors
Fa-kuang Hu 
Hans Michael Jebsen 
Anthony Hsien Pin Lee 
Chien Lee 
Dr. Deanna Ruth Tak Yung Rudgard 

Independent non-executive Directors
Sir David Akers-Jones 
Dr. Geoffrey Meou-tsen Yeh 
Per Jorgensen 

For the year ended 31 December 2007

  Basic salaries, 
housing 
and other 
allowances 
HK$’000 

Directors’ 
fees 
HK$’000 

(Note a)

Bonus 
HK$’000 

  Share-based 
payments 
HK$’000 

Retirement 
benefi ts
scheme 
contributions 
HK$’000 

190 
100 
42 

120 
120 
130 
130 
100 

230 
140 
85 
46 

4,304 
2,925 
1,215 

1,183 
344 
38 

862 
396 
– 

12 
273 
5 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 

Total
HK$’000

6,551
4,038
1,300

120
120
130
130
100

230
140
85
46

1,433 

8,444 

1,565 

1,258 

290 

12,990

For the year ended 31 December 2006

  Basic salaries, 
housing 
and other 
allowances 
HK$’000 

Directors’ 
fees 
HK$’000 

(Note a)

Bonus 
HK$’000 

  Share-based 
payments 
HK$’000 

Retirement 
benefi ts
scheme 
contributions 
HK$’000 

190 
100 
120 

120 
120 
130 
130 
100 

230 
140 
130 

4,213 
2,769 
3,599 

1,213 
245 
1,027 

–    
–    

1,171 

12 
227 
12 

–    
–    
–    
–    
–    

–    
–    
–    

–    
–    
–    
–    
–    

–    
–    
–    

–    
–    
–    
–    
–    

–    
–    
–    

–    
–    
–    
–    
–    

–    
–    
–    

Total
HK$’000

5,628
3,341
5,929

120
120
130
130
100

230
140
130

1,510 

10,581 

2,485 

1,171 

251 

15,998

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 101

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
   
Notes to the Financial Statements continued
For the year ended 31 December 2007

8.  DIRECTORS’ EMOLUMENTS continued
Notes:
(a)  Breakdown of Directors’ fees of each of the Directors of the Company for the year ended 31 December 2007 is set out below:

  Emoluments 
Investment  Nomination 
Review 
Board  Committee  Committee  Committee  Committee 
HK$’000 
HK$’000 

HK$’000 

HK$’000 

Audit 

HK$’000 

Executive Directors
Peter Ting Chang Lee 
Pauline Wah Ling Yu Wong 
Michael Tze Hau Lee (Note d) 

Non-executive Directors
Fa-kuang Hu 
Hans Michael Jebsen 
Anthony Hsien Pin Lee 
Chien Lee 
Dr. Deanna Ruth Tak Yung Rudgard 

Independent non-executive Directors
Sir David Akers-Jones 
Dr. Geoffrey Meou-tsen Yeh 
Tom Behrens-Sorensen (Note e) 
Per Jorgensen (Note f) 

140 
100 
35 

100 
100 
100 
100 
100 

120 
100 
65 
35 

– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
30 
– 

60 
– 
20 
11 

1,095 

121 

– 
– 
– 

20 
– 
– 
– 
– 

30 
20 
– 
– 

70 

20 
– 
7 

– 
20 
30 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 

77 

30 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

20 
20 
– 
– 

70 

2007 
Total 
HK$’000 

2006
Total
HK$’000

190 
100 
42 

120 
120 
130 
130 
100 

230 
140 
85 
46 

190
100
120

120
120
130
130
100

230
140

–  

130

1,433 

1,510

(b)  Year 2007: The Emoluments Review Committee reviewed his 2007 fi xed base salary and determined his 2006 performance-based bonus in 

March 2007. It was decided to make an increment on his base salary as from April 2007. Accordingly, his fi xed base package (including housing 
allowance which amount remains unchanged) paid during the year was HK$4,304,000. The stated bonus fi gure includes adjustment for 2006 
bonus accrued in 2006 accounts (following fi nalisation of bonus by the Emoluments Review Committee in March 2007), and 2007 target bonus 
fi gures pending fi nalisation by the Emoluments Review Committee after year-end in March 2008.

Year 2006: The Emoluments Review Committee reviewed his 2006 fi xed base salary and determined his 2005 performance-based bonus in 
March 2006. It was decided to make an increment on his base salary as from April 2006. Accordingly, his fi xed base package (including housing 
allowance which amount remains unchanged) paid during the year was HK$4,213,000. The stated bonus fi gure includes adjustment for 2005 
bonus accrued in 2005 accounts (following fi nalisation of bonus by the Emoluments Review Committee in March 2006), and 2006 target bonus 
fi gures pending fi nalisation by the Emoluments Review Committee after year-end in March 2007.

(c)  Year 2007: The Emoluments Review Committee reviewed his 2007 fi xed base salary and determined his 2006 performance-based bonus in 
March 2007. Accordingly, his fi xed base package (including housing allowance which amount remains unchanged) paid during the year was 
HK$1,215,000. The stated bonus fi gure includes adjustment for 2006 bonus accrued in 2006 accounts (following fi nalisation of bonus by the 
Emoluments Review Committee in March 2007).

Year 2006: The Emoluments Review Committee reviewed his 2006 fi xed base salary and determined his 2005 performance-based bonus in 
March 2006. It was decided to make an increment on his base salary as from April 2006. Accordingly, his fi xed base package (including housing 
allowance which amount remains unchanged) paid during the year was HK$3,599,000. The stated bonus fi gure includes adjustment for 2005 
bonus accrued in 2005 accounts (following fi nalisation of bonus by the Emoluments Review Committee in March 2006), and 2006 target bonus 
fi gures pending fi nalisation by the Emoluments Review Committee after year-end in March 2007.

(d)  Michael Tze Hau Lee stepped down as Managing Director as from the conclusion of 2007 annual general meeting held on 8 May 2007.

(e)  Tom Behrens-Sorensen was appointed as Independent non-executive Director as from the conclusion of 2007 annual general meeting held on 8 

May 2007.

(f)  Per Jorgensen stepped down as Independent non-executive Director as from the conclusion of 2007 annual general meeting held on 8 May 

2007.

102

Hysan Annual Report 2007

 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
9.  EMPLOYEES’ EMOLUMENTS
Of the fi ve individuals with the highest emoluments in the Group, two (2006: three) are Directors of the Company, details of whose 
emoluments are included in note 8 above. The emoluments of the remaining three (2006: two) individuals are detailed as follows:

Basic salaries, housing and other allowances 
Bonus 
Share-based payments 

Their emoluments are within the following bands:

HK$2,000,001 to HK$2,500,000 
HK$3,000,001 to HK$3,500,000 
HK$3,500,001 to HK$4,000,000 

10. FINANCE COSTS

Finance costs comprise:

Interest on bank loans and overdrafts wholly repayable within fi ve years 
Interest on fl oating rate notes wholly repayable within fi ve years 
Interest on fi xed rate notes wholly repayable within fi ve years 
Interest on fi xed rate notes not wholly repayable within fi ve years 
Imputed interest on zero coupon notes not wholly repayable within fi ve years 

Total interest expenses 
Net interest receipts on interest rate swap and cross currency swaps designated 
  as fair value hedges 
Recycling of gains from reserve on fi nancial instruments designated 
  as cash fl ow hedges 
Bank charges 
Medium term note programme expenses 
Other fi nance costs 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

7 
1 
2 

10 

5
1
1

7

Number of individuals

2007 

2006

1 
– 
2 

3 

– 
1
1

2

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

35 
26 
100 
– 
12 

173 

(7) 

(2) 
8 
1 
2 

175 

38
26
– 
108
11

183

(10)

(22)
7
1
4

163

Hysan Annual Report 2007 103

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I

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W

O
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A
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Y

I

N
A
C
T
O
N

I

O
U
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G
O
V
E
R
N
A
N
C
E

F
I
N
A
N
C
A
L

I

S
T
A
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E
N
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A
N
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A
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I

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
Notes to the Financial Statements continued
For the year ended 31 December 2007

11. TAXATION

Current tax
  Hong Kong profi ts tax
  – current year 
  – overprovision in prior years 
  – prior years’ tax provision 

Deferred tax (note 30)
  Change in fair value of investment properties 
  Other temporary differences 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

130 
(3) 
58 

185 

540 
20 

560 

745 

90
(1)
– 

89

448
21

469

558

Hong Kong profi ts tax is calculated at 17.5% of the estimated assessable profi t for both years.

The taxation for the year can be reconciled to the profi t before taxation per the consolidated income statement as follows:

Profi t before taxation 

Tax at Hong Kong profi ts tax rate of 17.5% 
Tax effect of share of results of associates 
Tax effect of expenses not deductible for tax purposes 
Tax effect of income not taxable for tax purposes 
Tax effect of estimated tax losses not recognised 
Utilisation of estimated tax losses previously not recognised 
Overprovision in prior years 
Prior years’ tax provision 
Others 

Taxation for the year 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

4,862 

3,798

851 
(79) 
8 
(85) 
20 
(12) 
(3) 
58 
(13) 

745 

664
(21)
1
(62)
2
(17)
(1)
– 
(8)

558

In addition to the amount charged to the consolidated income statement, deferred tax relating to the revaluation of the Group’s 
leasehold buildings has been charged directly to equity (see note 30).

At the date of approval of these fi nancial statements, the Group had disputes with the Hong Kong Inland Revenue Department 
(“IRD”) regarding the deductibility of certain expenses in assessing the taxable profi ts for the years of assessment 1995/1996 to 
1999/2000. Full amount of tax in dispute has been provided for in the Group’s accounts for previous years. No agreement with 
IRD has been reached at the date of approval of the 2007 fi nancial statements. The Group reviews its tax position annually and 
has made adequate provisions for each year based on the then prevailing tax law and practices. After taking into account the 
lapse of time and recent developments in tax case law and practices, an additional provision of HK$58 million was made in the 
current year being current estimate of interest payable on the tax in dispute should IRD’s claim be successful. The Directors 
believe that the Group has made suffi cient tax provisions as at the balance sheet date based on professional advice obtained.

104

Hysan Annual Report 2007

   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
12. PROFIT FOR THE YEAR

Profi t for the year has been arrived at after charging (crediting):

Auditor’s remuneration 

Amortisation of prepaid lease payments (note 17) 

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment 

Gross rental income from investment properties 
  Less:
  – Direct operating expenses that generated rental income 
  – Direct operating expenses that did not generate rental income 

Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment 

Staff costs, comprising:
  – Directors’ emoluments (note 8) 
  – Share-based payments 
  – Other staff costs 

Share of income tax of an associate
  (included in share of results of associates) 

13. DIVIDENDS
(a) Dividends recognised as distribution during the year:

2007 interim dividend paid – HK12 cents per share 
2006 interim dividend paid – HK10 cents per share 
2006 fi nal dividend paid – HK40 cents per share 
2005 fi nal dividend paid – HK35 cents per share 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

2 

– 

7 

2

– 

7

(1,368) 

(1,268)

205 
3 

234
6

(1,160) 

(1,028)

– 

13 
3 
111 

127 

81 

1

16
3
117

136

57

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

127 
– 
422 
– 

549 

– 
105
– 
369

474

Scrip dividend alternatives were offered to the shareholders in respect of the above dividends. These alternatives were accepted 
by the shareholders as follows:

2007 interim dividend (2006 interim dividend):
  – Cash payment 
  – Share alternative 
2006 fi nal dividend (2005 fi nal dividend):
  – Cash payment 
  – Share alternative 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

99 
28 

346 
76 

549 

94
11

341
28

474

Hysan Annual Report 2007 105

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V

I

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W

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R
A
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E
G
Y

I

N
A
C
T
O
N

I

O
U
R
G
O
V
E
R
N
A
N
C
E

F
I
N
A
N
C
A
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I

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A
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M
E
N
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S
A
N
D
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A
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I

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
Notes to the Financial Statements continued
For the year ended 31 December 2007

13. DIVIDENDS continued
(b) Dividends proposed after the balance sheet date:

Final dividend proposed – HK48 cents per share
  (2006: HK40 cents per share) 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

498 

422

The 2007 fi nal dividend of HK48 cents per share (2006: HK40 cents per share) has been proposed by the Directors on 13 March 
2008 and is subject to approval by the shareholders at the forthcoming annual general meeting. Such dividend is not recognised 
as a liability as at 31 December 2007.

The proposed 2007 fi nal dividend will be payable in cash with a scrip dividend alternative.

14. EARNINGS PER SHARE
(a) Basic and diluted earnings per share
The calculation of the basic and diluted earnings per share attributable to the equity holders of the Company is based on the 
following data:

Earnings for the purposes of basic and diluted earnings per share:
  Profi t for the year attributable to equity holders of the Company 

Weighted average number of ordinary shares for the purpose of 
  basic earnings per share 

Effect of dilutive potential ordinary shares:
  Share options issued by the Company 

Weighted average number of ordinary shares for the purpose of 
  diluted earnings per share 

Earnings

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

3,949 

3,099

Number of shares

2007 

2006

1,051,770,437  1,054,166,353

607,460 

923,579

1,052,377,897  1,055,089,932

The computation of diluted earnings per share does not assume the exercise of certain of the Company’s outstanding share 
options as the exercise prices are higher than the average market price per share.

106

Hysan Annual Report 2007

   
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
14. EARNINGS PER SHARE continued
(b) Adjusted basic earnings per share
For the purpose of assessing the performance of the Group’s principal activities (i.e. leasing of investment properties), the 
management is of the view that the profi t for the year attributable to the equity holders of the Company should be adjusted in 
the calculation of basic earnings per share as follows:

Profi t for the year attributable to

equity holders of the Company 

Gain arising from change in fair value of

investment properties 

Effect of deferred taxation on change in
fair value of investment properties 

Effect of minority interests’ shares 
Gain arising from share of change in
fair value of investment properties
(net of deferred taxation) of an associate 

Underlying profi t attributable to

equity holders of the Company 

Prior years’ tax provision 
Net realised gain on disposal of
  available-for-sale investments 
Reversal of impairment loss recognised

in respect of investment in an associate 

Recovery of a loan to an associate 

Recurring underlying profi t 

2007 

2006

Profi t 
HK$ million 

Basic 
earnings 
per share 
HK cents 

Profi t 
HK$ million 

Basic
earnings
per share
HK cents

3,949 

375.46 

3,099 

293.96

(3,131) 

(297.69) 

(2,576) 

(244.31)

540 
111 

51.34 
10.55 

448 
97 

42.54
9.20

(311) 

(29.57) 

(56) 

(5.36 )

1,158 
58 

110.09 
5.52 

1,012 
– 

96.03
– 

(255) 

(24.24) 

(170) 

(16.16 )

(11) 
– 

950 

(1.05) 
– 

90.32 

– 
(87) 

755 

– 
(8.27 )

71.60

The denominators used are the same as those detailed above for basic earnings per share.

15. INVESTMENT PROPERTIES

Fair value
At 1 January 
Additions 
Disposals 
Transfer to a group company 
Net increase in fair value 

At 31 December 

The Group 

The Company

2007 
HK$ million 

2006 
HK$ million 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

32,473 
107 
– 
– 
3,131 

35,711 

29,815 
83 
(1) 
– 
2,576 

32,473 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

4,061
–
–
(4,061)
–

–

The carrying amount of investment properties shown above comprises:

Leasehold land in Hong Kong:
  – Medium-term lease 
  – Long lease 

The Group 

The Company

2007 
HK$ million 

2006 
HK$ million 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

6,200 
29,511 

35,711 

5,640 
26,833 

32,473 

– 
– 

– 

–
–

–

Hysan Annual Report 2007 107

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Y

I

N
A
C
T
O
N

I

O
U
R
G
O
V
E
R
N
A
N
C
E

F
I
N
A
N
C
A
L

I

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T
A
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M
E
N
T
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A
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D
V
A
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I

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
   
   
 
 
   
   
 
 
   
Notes to the Financial Statements continued
For the year ended 31 December 2007

15. INVESTMENT PROPERTIES continued
The fair value of the Group’s investment properties at 31 December 2007 have been arrived at on the basis of a valuation carried 
out on that date by Knight Frank Petty Limited, an independent qualifi ed professional valuer not connected with the Group. 
Knight Frank Petty Limited has appropriate qualifi cations and recent experiences in the valuation of similar properties in the 
relevant locations. The valuation, which conforms to Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors Valuation Standards on Properties, was 
mainly arrived at by reference to comparable market transactions for similar properties.

All of the Group’s property interests held under operating leases to earn rentals and/or for capital appreciation purposes are 
measured using the fair value model and are classifi ed and accounted for as investment properties. 

16. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Buildings in
Hong Kong 
under 
long lease 
HK$ million 

Furniture,
fi xtures and 
equipment 
HK$ million 

Computers 
HK$ million 

Motor
vehicles 
HK$ million 

Total
HK$ million

55 
– 
– 

55 
– 
– 
7 

62 

– 
62 

62 

– 
1 
– 
(1) 

– 
1 
– 
(1) 

– 

62 

55 

49 
5 
(3) 

51 
2 
– 
– 

53 

53 
– 

53 

42 
3 
(2) 
– 

43 
3 
– 
– 

46 

7 

8 

20 
1 
– 

21 
1 
(1) 
– 

21 

21 
– 

21 

12 
3 
– 
– 

15 
3 
(1) 
– 

17 

4 

6 

1 
– 
– 

1 
– 
– 
– 

1 

1 
– 

1 

1 
– 
– 
– 

1 
– 
– 
– 

1 

– 

– 

125
6
(3)

128
3
(1)
7

137

75
62

137

55
7
(2)
(1)

59
7
(1)
(1)

64

73

69

The Group

Cost or Valuation
At 1 January 2006 
Additions 
Disposals 

At 31 December 2006 
Additions 
Disposals 
Surplus on revaluation 

At 31 December 2007 

Comprising:
  At cost 
  At valuation 2007 

Accumulated Depreciation
At 1 January 2006 
Provided for the year 
Eliminated on disposals 
Eliminated on revaluation 

At 31 December 2006 
Provided for the year 
Eliminated on disposals 
Eliminated on revaluation 

At 31 December 2007 

Carrying Amounts
At 31 December 2007 

At 31 December 2006 

108

Hysan Annual Report 2007

   
   
   
 
   
 
 
   
16. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT continued

Furniture,
fi xtures and 
equipment 
HK$ million 

Computers 
HK$ million 

Motor
vehicles 
HK$ million 

Total
HK$ million

The Company

Cost
At 1 January 2006 
Additions 
Disposals 

At 31 December 2006 
Additions 
Disposals 

At 31 December 2007 

Accumulated Depreciation
At 1 January 2006 
Provided for the year 
Eliminated on disposals 

At 31 December 2006 
Provided for the year 
Eliminated on disposals 

At 31 December 2007 

Carrying Amounts
At 31 December 2007 

At 31 December 2006 

22 
– 
(1) 

21 
1 
– 

22 

20 
1 
(1) 

20 
1 
– 

21 

1 

1 

19 
1 
– 

20 
1 
(1) 

20 

11 
3 
– 

14 
3 
(1) 

16 

4 

6 

1 
– 
– 

1 
– 
– 

1 

1 
– 
– 

1 
– 
– 

1 

– 

– 

42
1
(1)

42
2
(1)

43

32
4
(1)

35
4
(1)

38

5

7

The above items of property, plant and equipment are depreciated on a straight-line basis at the following rates per annum:

Leasehold buildings 
Furniture, fi xtures and equipment 
Computers 
Motor vehicles 

Over the shorter of the term of the lease or 40 years
20%
20%
25%

The Group’s leasehold buildings were revalued at 31 December 2007 by Knight Frank Petty Limited, an independent qualifi ed 
professional valuer, on market value basis. The surplus of HK$8 million (2006: HK$1 million) arising on revaluation have been 
credited to the properties revaluation reserve.

Had the Group’s leasehold buildings been measured on a historical cost basis, their carrying amounts would have been HK$50 
million (2006: HK$52 million) at the balance sheet date.

Furniture, fi xtures and equipment of the Group include assets carried at cost of HK$19 million (2006: HK$18 million) and 
accumulated depreciation of HK$17 million (2006: HK$16 million) in respect of assets held for leasing out under operating 
leases. Depreciation charges in respect of those assets for the year amounted to HK$1 million (2006: HK$1 million).

There is no property, plant and equipment of the Company held for renting out under operating leases for the year or at the 
balance sheet date.

17. PREPAID LEASE PAYMENTS
The Group’s prepaid lease payments represent leasehold land in Hong Kong held under long lease, and are amortised on a 
straight-line basis over the terms of leases. The amortisation of prepaid lease payments for the year was approximately 
HK$163,000 (2006: HK$163,000).

Hysan Annual Report 2007 109

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I

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A
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I

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O
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N
A
N
C
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F
I
N
A
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I

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
 
   
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements continued
For the year ended 31 December 2007

18. INVESTMENTS IN SUBSIDIARIES
The Company’s investments in subsidiaries are the interest in unlisted shares stated at cost of approximately HK$5,000 (2006: 
HK$5,000). Details of the principal subsidiaries held by the Company at 31 December 2007 are set out in note 41.

19. INVESTMENTS IN ASSOCIATES

Cost of unlisted investments 
Loan to an associate 
Share of post-acquisition profi ts and
  reserves, net of dividend received 

Less: Impairment loss recognised 

The Group 

The Company

2007 
HK$ million 

2006 
HK$ million 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

3 
112 

896 

1,011 
– 

1,011 

3 
186 

452 

641 
(11) 

630 

– 
– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

Loan to an associate of HK$112 million (2006: HK$186 million) is unsecured and interest-free. In the opinion of the Directors, the 
loan is considered as part of the Group’s investment cost in the associate and, accordingly, the loan is included in the amount of 
investments in associates.

During the year, the Directors conducted a review of the Group’s investments in associates and determined that the recoverable 
amount of investment in an associate exceeded its carrying amount. Accordingly, impairment loss of HK$11 million recognised 
in respect of that associate in prior year was reversed at the balance sheet date. 

The Company’s investments in associates are the interest in unlisted shares stated at cost of approximately HK$3,000 (2006: 
HK$3,000).

Details of the Group’s associates at 31 December 2007 are as follows:

Name of associate 

Wingrove Investment 

Pte Ltd  

Country Link 

Enterprises Limited 

Shanghai Kong Hui 

Property Development 
Co., Ltd 

Shanghai Grand 
Gateway Plaza 
Property Management 
Co., Ltd

Form of 
business 
structure 

Place of 
registration 
and 
operation 

Class of  
share held/  
registered  
capital  

Effective
interest
held by  
the Group  

Private company  
limited by shares 

Singapore 

Ordinary share  

25.0% * 

Private limited 
company 

Sino-Foreign 
equity joint 
venture 

Sino-Foreign 
equity joint 
venture 

Hong Kong 

Ordinary share  

26.3% * 

US$165,000,000 # 

24.7% * 

US$140,000 # 

23.7% * 

The People’s 
Republic 
of China 

The People’s 
Republic 
of China

Parallel Asia Engineering 

Company Limited 

Private limited 
company 

Hong Kong 

Ordinary share  

25.0%  

Principal 
activities

Property 
development
and leasing

Investment
 holding

Property 
development
and leasing

Property
 management

Under 
liquidation

*  Indirectly held
#  Registered capital

110

Hysan Annual Report 2007

   
   
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
19. INVESTMENTS IN ASSOCIATES continued
The summarised fi nancial information in respect of the Group’s associates based on the unaudited management accounts for 
the year ended 31 December 2007 is as follows:

Total assets 
Total liabilities 

Net assets 

Group’s share of net assets of associates 

Turnover 

Profi t for the year 

Group’s share of results of associates for the year 

20. AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE INVESTMENTS

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

8,445 
(4,272) 

4,173 

1,011 

1,055 

1,723 

452 

6,928
(4,535)

2,393

641

669

457

120

The Group 

The Company

2007 
HK$ million 

2006 
HK$ million 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

Available-for-sale investments comprise:

Listed investments:
  – Equity securities listed in Hong Kong, at fair value 

2,439 

1,678 

Unlisted investments:

– Equity securities in overseas, at cost 

     Less: Impairment loss recognised 

     Add: Amounts due therefrom 

  – Club debentures, at cost 
     Less: Impairment loss recognised 

93 
(55) 

38 
– 

38 

3 
(1) 

2 

117 
(60) 

57 
8 

65 

3 
(1) 

2 

2,479 

1,745 

– 

– 
– 

– 
– 

– 

3 
(1) 

2 

2 

– 

– 
– 

– 
– 

– 

3
(1)

2

2

The equity securities in overseas represent the Group’s investments in unlisted equity securities issued by private entities 
incorporated in Singapore. These private entities are engaged in property investment and development activities in Singapore. 
They are measured at cost less any identifi ed impairment loss at each balance sheet date because the range of reasonable fair 
value estimates is so signifi cant that the management is of the opinion that their fair values cannot be measured reliably.

In the current year, the Group disposed of an unlisted equity security at its carrying amount of HK$19 million, which had been 
carried at cost less impairment before the disposal.

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N
A
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F
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I

Hysan Annual Report 2007 111

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
   
   
   
   
Notes to the Financial Statements continued
For the year ended 31 December 2007

21. OTHER FINANCIAL ASSETS/LIABILITIES

Other fi nancial assets
Derivatives under hedge accounting:

Cash fl ow hedges

– Interest rate swaps 
– Foreign exchange derivatives 

  Fair value hedges

– Cross currency swaps 

Financial assets designated as at FVTPL:
  Principal-protected deposits 

Total 

Other fi nancial liabilities
Derivatives under hedge accounting:

Cash fl ow hedges

– Interest rate swaps 
– Foreign exchange derivatives 

  Fair value hedges

– Interest rate swap 
– Cross currency swaps 

Other derivatives classifi ed as held for trading 
  (not under hedge accounting):
  Foreign exchange derivatives 
  Equity derivatives 

Total 

The Group

Current 

Non-current

2007 
HK$ million 

2006 
HK$ million 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

– 
1 

– 

1 

– 

1 

2 
– 

– 
– 

2 

– 
38 

38 

40 

1 
1 

– 

2 

– 

2 

– 
– 

– 
– 

– 

– 
40 

40 

40 

– 
2 

30 

32 

203 

235 

– 
– 

– 
– 

– 

17 
– 

17 

17 

– 
1

1

2

– 

2

– 
1

4
8

13

32
– 

32

45

Except for the fair values of principal-protected deposits, equity derivatives and the interest rate swap designated as fair value 
hedge being determined based on market values provided by the counterparty fi nancial institutions, the fair values of other 
derivatives are calculated using discounted cash fl ow analysis based on the applicable yield curves and foreign exchange rates.

112

Hysan Annual Report 2007

 
 
   
   
 
 
   
   
   
21. OTHER FINANCIAL ASSETS/LIABILITIES continued
(a) Cash flow hedges
(i)  Interest rate risk
The Group uses interest rate swaps to manage its exposure to interest rate changes of certain amounts of its fl oating rate notes 
and the interest rate changes in relation to fl oating-interest-rate payments of certain fi nancial instruments. The interest rate 
swaps match the major terms of the hedged underlying items such that the management considers that the interest rate swaps 
are highly effective hedging instruments.

At the balance sheet date, the maturity periods of interest rate swaps at notional amount were as follows:

Within one year 

The Group

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

660 

949

As at 31 December 2007, the fl oating-to-fi xed interest rate swaps locked in the interest rates ranging from 4.31% to 4.71% 
(2006: 2.11% to 2.45%).

As at 31 December 2007, fair value losses of HK$2 million (2006: fair value gains of HK$1 million) from the interest rate swaps 
under cash fl ow hedges have been deferred in equity and are expected to be released to the consolidated income statement at 
various dates during the lives of the swaps when the hedged interest payables occur.

During the year, the Group had recycled approximately HK$1 million (2006: HK$21 million) gains on interest rate swaps from the 
hedging reserve to profi t or loss as fi nance costs.

(ii)  Foreign currency risk
The Group designates forward foreign exchange contracts as cash fl ow hedges to manage its foreign currency exposure in 
relation to the coupon payments of the US$65 million out of the US$182 million fi xed rate notes for both years.

The principal terms of the foreign exchange derivatives have been negotiated to match the coupon payments of the fi xed rate 
notes. At the balance sheet date, the maturity periods of the forward foreign exchange contracts at notional amount were as 
follows:

Within one year 
More than one year, but less than fi ve years 
More than fi ve years 

The Group

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

34 
118 
– 

152 

34
138
14

186

As at 31 December 2007, fair value gains of HK$3 million (2006: HK$1 million) from the forward foreign exchange contracts 
have been deferred in equity and are expected to be released to the consolidated income statement at various dates when the 
coupon payments of the US$65 million fi xed rate notes occur.

During the year, the Group had recycled approximately HK$1 million (2006: HK$1 million) gains on forward foreign exchange 
contracts from the hedging reserve to profi t or loss as fi nance costs.

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 113

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
Notes to the Financial Statements continued
For the year ended 31 December 2007

21. OTHER FINANCIAL ASSETS/LIABILITIES continued
(b) Fair value hedges
The Group designates an interest rate swap as fair value hedge to minimise its interest rate risk exposure in relation to the zero 
coupon notes, and designates cross currency swaps as fair value hedges to manage interest rate and foreign currency risk in 
relation to the principal and coupon payments of the US$117 million out of the US$182 million fi xed rate notes. The principal 
terms of the interest rate swap and cross currency swaps match the corresponding notes and the management considers that 
the swaps are highly effective hedging instruments.

At the balance sheet date, the maturity periods of the swaps at notional amount were as follows:

Interest rate swap
  More than fi ve years 

Cross currency swaps
  More than one year, but less than fi ve years 
  More than fi ve years 

The Group

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

227 

913 
– 

913 

215

–
913

913

As a result of the hedge accounting, the carrying amount of the fi xed rate notes was adjusted by gains of approximately HK$54 
million (2006: gains of approximately HK$78 million) while the carrying amount of the zero coupon notes was adjusted by losses 
of approximately HK$72,000 (2006: gains of approximately HK$4 million). The changes in fair values of the notes for the hedged 
risk were included in profi t or loss at the same time that the changes in fair value of the swaps were included in profi t or loss. 
The fi xed-to-fl oating interest rate swap hedging the zero coupon notes converted a fi xed rate of 5.19% to HIBOR plus 0.69% for 
both years.

(c) Financial assets designated as at FVTPL
During the year, the Group entered into certain contracts of structured deposits with certain fi nancial institutions. The deposits 
with notional amounts of HK$118 million and HK$80 million will mature in 2009 and 2010 respectively. The structured deposits 
are principal-protected at the maturity dates and contain embedded derivatives which are not closely related to the host 
contract. The interest rates of such deposits vary in relation to the relative movements of the underlying assets, such as foreign 
exchange rates. The entire combined contracts have been designated as fi nancial assets at FVTPL on initial recognition.

(d) Other derivatives classified as held for trading (not under hedge accounting)
The notional amounts of other derivatives classifi ed as held for trading not under hedge accounting are as follows:

Derivatives 

Forward foreign exchange contact 
Net basis swaps 
Equity derivatives 

Notional amount 

US$6 million 
US$65 million 
HK$147 million 

Maturity

2008
2012
2008

The Group entered into net basis swaps to minimise the foreign currency exposure in relation to the principal of the US$65 
million of the US$182 million fi xed rate notes. The equity derivatives were call options of certain listed securities in Hong Kong.

114

Hysan Annual Report 2007

   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
22. ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE AND OTHER RECEIVABLES
Rents from leasing of investment properties are normally received in advance. At the balance sheet date, accounts receivable of 
the Group and the Company mainly represented rents receipts in arrears, which were aged less than 90 days.

23. AMOUNTS DUE FROM/TO SUBSIDIARIES
The amounts due from/to subsidiaries are unsecured, interest-free and repayable on demand.

24. AMOUNT DUE FROM AN ASSOCIATE
The amount due from an associate is unsecured, interest-free and repayable on demand.

25. HELD FOR TRADING INVESTMENTS
The Group’s held for trading investments represent investments in equity securities listed in Hong Kong.

26. TIME DEPOSITS/CASH AND BANK BALANCES
Time deposits, cash and bank balances comprise cash and short-term bank deposits carrying effective interest rates ranging 
from 0.88% to 3.45% (2006: 3.73% to 3.93%) with an original maturity of three months or less.

27. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND ACCRUALS
At the balance sheet date, accounts payable and accruals of the Group and the Company were aged less than 90 days.

28. AMOUNTS DUE TO MINORITY SHAREHOLDERS
The amounts due to minority shareholders are unsecured, interest-free and repayable on demand.

29. BORROWINGS

The analysis of the carrying amounts of borrowings is as follows:

Unsecured bank loans 
Floating rate notes 
Fixed rate notes 
Zero coupon notes 

The Group

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

720 
549 
1,362 
230 

2,861 

720
549
1,338
214

2,821

(a) Unsecured bank loans
The unsecured bank loans of HK$720 million (2006: HK$720 million) are guaranteed as to principal and interest by the Company 
and are repayable after two years, but not exceeding fi ve years.

At the balance sheet date, all the Group’s unsecured bank loans are variable-rate borrowings with effective interest rates (which 
are also equal to contracted interest rates) ranging from 3.94% to 4.17% (2006: 4.39% to 4.58%) per annum denominated in 
Hong Kong dollars. Interest rate is normally re-fi xed at every one to six months.

(b) Floating rate notes
In 2004, HK$550 million fi ve-year fl oating rate notes were issued by Hysan (MTN) Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the 
Company. The notes are guaranteed as to principal and interest by the Company, bear effective interest rates (which are equal 
to contracted interest rates) ranging from 3.98% to 5.08% (2006: 4.24% to 5.04%) per annum at the balance sheet date and 
are repayable in full in 2009.

The Group has entered into interest rate swaps to hedge against the interest rate risk of certain fl oating rate notes (see note 21).

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 115

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
Notes to the Financial Statements continued
For the year ended 31 December 2007

29. BORROWINGS continued
(c) Fixed rate notes

Fixed rate notes 
Less: Notes repurchased and cancelled 

Net gain attributable to hedged risks 

The Group

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

1,416 
– 
(54) 

1,362 

1,556
(140)
(78)

1,338

In February 2002, US$200 million 10-year fi xed rate notes were issued by Hysan (MTN) Limited. The notes are guaranteed as to 
principal and interest by the Company, bear an effective interest rate (which is equal to contracted interest rate) of 7% per 
annum and are repayable in full in February 2012. During the year ended 31 December 2006, a total nominal amount of US$18 
million was repurchased and cancelled. The outstanding nominal amount of the notes at both balance sheet dates was US$182 
million.

The Group has entered into cross currency swaps to hedge against the interest rate and foreign exchange rate risks in relation 
to the principal repayment and coupon payments of the US$117 million (2006: US$117 million) fi xed rate notes under fair value 
hedge. The Group has also entered into forward foreign exchange contracts to hedge against the foreign exchange rate risk 
arising from the coupon payments of the remaining US$65 million fi xed rate notes and the forward foreign exchange contracts 
are accounted for as cash fl ow hedges (see note 21).

The net gain of HK$54 million (2006: HK$78 million) represented changes in fair value attributable to the hedged interest rate 
and foreign exchange rate risks of the US$117 million (2006: US$117 million) fi xed rate notes under fair value hedge.

(d) Zero coupon notes

Zero coupon notes 
Less: Net gain attributable to hedged risk 

The Group

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

230 
– 

230 

218
(4)

214

In February 2005, 15-year zero coupon notes of nominal amount of HK$430 million were issued at an issue price of around 
46.37% of the nominal amount by Hysan (MTN) Limited. The notes are guaranteed as to nominal amount by the Company, bear 
an effective yield (which is equal to contracted yield) at the rate of 5.19% per annum and are repayable at par in February 2020. 
Hysan (MTN) Limited has the option to redeem the notes on 7 February 2015 at a price of about 77.4% of the nominal amount.

The Group has entered into an interest rate swap to hedge against the interest rate risk of the zero coupon notes under fair 
value hedge (see note 21).

The net loss of approximately HK$72,000 (2006: gain of approximately HK$4 million) represented changes in fair value 
attributable to the hedged interest rate risk of the zero coupon notes under fair value hedge.

116

Hysan Annual Report 2007

   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
30. DEFERRED TAXATION
The following are the major deferred tax liabilities (assets) recognised by the Group and the Company and movements thereon 
during the year:

Accelerated tax 
depreciation 
HK$ million 

Revaluation 
of properties 
HK$ million 

Tax
losses 
HK$ million 

Total
HK$ million

The Group

At 1 January 2006 
Charge to consolidated income statement 
  for the year (note 11) 

At 31 December 2006 
Charge to consolidated income statement 
  for the year (note 11) 
Charge to equity for the year 

At 31 December 2007 

The Company

At 1 January 2006 
Credit to income statement for the year 

At 31 December 2006 and 31 December 2007 

224 

20 

244 

20 
– 

264 

2,658 

448 

3,106 

540 
1 

3,647 

(2) 

1 

(1) 

– 
– 

(1) 

2,880

469

3,349

560
1

3,910

Accelerated tax 
depreciation 
HK$ million 

Revaluation
of properties 
HK$ million 

Total
HK$ million

10 
(10) 

– 

480 
(480) 

– 

490
(490)

– 

At the balance sheet date, the Group has unused estimated tax losses of HK$400 million (2006: HK$456 million) available for 
offset against future profi ts. A deferred tax asset has been recognised in respect of HK$5 million (2006: HK$7 million) of such 
losses. No deferred tax asset has been recognised in respect of the remaining estimated tax losses of HK$395 million (2006: 
HK$449 million) as the utilisation of these estimated tax losses is uncertain. These estimated tax losses may be carried forward 
indefi nitely.

At the balance sheet date, the Group has deductible temporary differences of HK$4 million (2006: HK$49 million). No deferred 
tax asset has been recognised in relation to such deductible temporary differences as it is not probable that taxable profi t will be 
available against which the deductible temporary differences can be utilised.

The Company does not have any unused tax loss as at balance sheet date.

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 117

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
   
 
   
   
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements continued
For the year ended 31 December 2007

31. SHARE CAPITAL

Ordinary shares of HK$5 each

Authorised:
  At 1 January and 31 December 

Number of shares 

2007 

2006 

Share capital
2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

1,450,000,000  1,450,000,000 

7,250 

7,250

Issued and fully paid:
  At 1 January 
  Issue of shares pursuant to scrip dividend schemes 
  Exercise of share options 
  Cancellation upon repurchase of own shares 

  At 31 December 

1,055,137,409  1,053,260,841 
1,700,301 
176,267 
– 

5,057,681 
1,507,666 
(24,233,000) 

1,037,469,756  1,055,137,409 

5,276 
25 
7 
(121) 

5,187 

5,266
9
1
– 

5,276

(a) Issue of shares pursuant to scrip dividend schemes
On 12 June 2007 and 5 October 2007 respectively, the Company issued and allotted a total of 3,623,799 shares and 1,433,882 
shares of HK$5 each in the Company at HK$21.11 and HK$19.412 to the shareholders who elected to receive shares in the 
Company in lieu of cash for the 2006 fi nal and 2007 interim dividends pursuant to the scrip dividend schemes announced by the 
Company on 8 May 2007 and 3 September 2007. These shares rank pari passu in all respects with other shares in issue. 

(b) Issue of shares under share option schemes
During the year, options to subscribe for a total of 1,350,000 shares, 77,666 shares and 80,000 shares were exercised at the 
exercise prices of HK$9.22, HK$15.85 and HK$16.60 per share respectively. These shares rank pari passu in all respects with 
other shares in issue. Details of options outstanding and movements during the year are set out in note 40.

(c) Cancellation upon repurchase of own shares
The Company was authorised at the 2007 annual general meeting to purchase its own ordinary shares not exceeding 10% of 
the aggregate nominal amount of its issued share capital at that time. During the year, the Company repurchased its ordinary 
shares on the Stock Exchange when they were signifi cantly trading at a discount in order to enhance shareholder value.

During the year, the Company repurchased its own ordinary shares on the Stock Exchange as follows:

Month of  
repurchase in 2007 

Number of shares of  
nominal value of HK$5 
  each repurchased 

August 
September 
October 
November 

871,000 
22,720,000 
100,000 
542,000 

24,233,000 

Consideration per share 

Highest 
HK$ 

19.64 
22.00 
21.00 
23.00 

Lowest 
HK$ 

18.94 
19.40 
20.95 
22.75 

Aggregate
consideration
paid
HK$ million

17
480
2
12

511

The repurchased shares were cancelled during the year and the issued share capital of the Company was reduced by the 
nominal value thereof. The premium paid on repurchase of the shares of HK$390 million was charged to retained profi ts. 
Pursuant to section 49H of the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance, an amount of HK$121 million equivalent to nominal value of 
the shares cancelled was transferred from the retained profi ts of the Company to the capital redemption reserve.

Save as disclosed above, neither the Company nor its subsidiaries purchased, sold or redeemed any of the Company’s listed 
securities during the year.

118

Hysan Annual Report 2007

   
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
32. RESERVES OF THE COMPANY
The Company’s reserves available for distribution to its equity holders as at 31 December 2007 amounted to HK$5,676 million 
(2006: HK$5,997 million), being its general reserve, dividend reserve and retained profi ts at that date.

Share 
premium 
HK$ million 

Share 
options 
reserve 
HK$ million 

Capital
redemption 
reserve 
HK$ million 

General 
reserve 
HK$ million 

Dividend 
reserve 
HK$ million 

Retained
profi ts 
HK$ million 

Total
HK$ million

At 1 January 2006 
Premium on issue of shares pursuant 
  to scrip dividend schemes 
Premium on issue of shares under 
  share option schemes 
Recognition of equity-settled
  share-based payments 
Profi t for the year 
Interim dividend declared for 2006 
Dividends paid during  
  the year (note 13) 
Proposed fi nal dividend for 2006 

At 31 December 2006 
Premium on issue of shares pursuant
  to scrip dividend schemes 
Premium on issue of shares under
  share option schemes 
Cancellation upon repurchase
  of own shares 
Expenses for repurchase of own shares 
Recognition of equity-settled
  share-based payments 
Forfeiture of share options 
Profi t for the year 
Interim dividend declared for 2007 
Dividends paid during  
  the year (note 13) 

1,420 

30 

3 

– 
– 
– 

– 
– 

1,453 

79 

9 

– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

At 31 December 2007 

1,541 

Note: General reserve was set up from the transfer of retained profi ts.

(Note)

100 

155 

369 

5,273 

7,319

– 

– 

– 
– 
– 

– 
– 

– 

– 

– 
– 
– 

– 
– 

– 

– 

– 
– 
105 

(474) 
422 

– 

– 

– 
729 
(105) 

– 
(422) 

30

2

4
729
– 

(474)
– 

155 

100 

422 

5,475 

7,610

– 

– 

121 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

– 

– 

– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

– 

– 

– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
127 

– 

– 

(511) 
(2) 

– 
2 
739 
(127) 

79

8

(390)
(2)

4
–
739
–

(549) 

– 

(549)

276 

100 

– 

5,576 

7,499

2 

– 

(1) 

4 
– 
– 

– 
– 

5 

– 

(1) 

– 
– 

4 
(2) 
– 
– 

– 

6 

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 119

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements continued
For the year ended 31 December 2007

33. CAPITAL RISK MANAGEMENT
The Group manages its capital to ensure that the Group will be able to continue as a going concern while maximising the return 
to stakeholders through the optimisation of the debt and equity balance. The Group’s overall strategy remains unchanged from 
prior year.

The Group monitors its capital structure on the basis of a net debt to adjusted capital ratio. For this purpose, the Group defi nes 
net debt as borrowings as shown in the consolidated balance sheet less total cash and cash equivalents. Adjusted capital 
comprises all components of equity, adjusted by cumulative deferred tax provided on fair value gain on the investment and 
owner-occupied properties attributable to equity holders.

The management reviews the Group’s net debt to adjusted capital ratio regularly and adjust the ratio through the payment of 
dividends, the issue of new share or debt, the repurchase of shares and the redemption of existing debt.

The net debt to adjusted capital ratio at the year end was as follows:

Unsecured bank loans 
Floating rate notes 
Fixed rate notes 
Zero coupon notes 

Borrowings 
Less: Time deposits 

Cash and bank balances 

Net debt 

Equity attributable to equity holders of the Company 
Add:  Group’s share of cumulative deferred tax on properties revaluation 

Adjusted capital 

Net debt to adjusted capital 

The Group

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

720 
549 
1,362 
230 

2,861 
(478) 
(6) 

2,377 

31,652 
3,420 

35,072 

6.8% 

720
549
1,338
214

2,821
(382)
(3)

2,436

27,828
2,901

30,729

7.9%

Neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries are subject to externally imposed capital requirements.

120

Hysan Annual Report 2007

   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
34. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
(a) Categories of financial instruments

Financial assets

Financial assets at FVTPL
  – designated as at FVTPL 
  – held for trading 

Derivative instruments under
  hedge accounting 

Available-for-sale fi nancial assets 

Loans and receivables 
  (including cash and cash equivalents) 

Financial liabilities

Financial liabilities at FVTPL
  – held for trading 

Derivative instruments under
  hedge accounting 

Amortised cost 

The Group 

The Company

2007 
HK$ million 

2006 
HK$ million 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

203 
95 

33 

2,479 

1,162 

3,972 

55 

2 

3,805 

3,862 

– 
– 

4 

1,745 

1,209 

2,958 

72 

13 

3,686 

3,771 

– 
– 

– 

2 

– 
– 

– 

2

12,790 

12,792 

13,071

13,073

– 

– 

61 

61 

– 

– 

126

126

(b) Financial risk management objectives and policies
The Group’s major fi nancial instruments include cash and bank balances, time deposits, accounts receivable, equity 
investments, amount due from an associate, other receivables, borrowings, accounts payable and accruals, amounts due to 
minority shareholders, rental deposits from tenants and derivative fi nancial instruments. The Company’s major fi nancial 
instruments include cash and bank balances, time deposits, accounts receivable, other receivables, amounts due from/to 
subsidiaries and accounts payable and accruals. Details of these fi nancial instruments are disclosed in respective notes. The 
risks associated with these fi nancial instruments and the policies on how to mitigate these risks are set out below. The 
management manages and monitors these exposures to ensure appropriate measures are implemented on a timely and 
effective manner.

(i) Credit risk
The credit risk of the Group and the Company are primarily attributable to rents receivable from tenants, amount due from an 
associate, derivative fi nancial instruments, time deposits and bank balances. The Group’s and the Company’s maximum 
exposure to credit risk which will cause a fi nancial loss to the Group and the Company due to failure to discharge an obligation 
by the counterparties and fi nancial guarantees issued by the Group and the Company is arising from:

• 

• 

the carrying amount of the respective recognised fi nancial assets as stated in the consolidated and Company’s balance 
sheets; and

the amount of contingent liabilities in relation to fi nancial guarantee issued by the Group and the Company as disclosed in 
note 36.

For rents receivable from tenants, credit checks are part of the normal leasing process and stringent monitoring procedures are 
in place to deal with overdue debts. In addition, the Group reviews the recoverable amount of each individual trade debt at each 
balance sheet date to ensure that adequate impairment losses are made for irrecoverable amounts.

To mitigate counterparty risk, the Group enters into derivative contracts only with sound fi nancial institutions with strong 
investment-grade credit ratings, limits exposure to each fi nancial institution, and monitors each rating regularly.

The Group’s and the Company’s time deposits and bank balances are placed with banks of high credit ratings in Hong Kong. 
The Group and the Company has set an exposure limit to each single fi nancial institution.

Other than concentration of credit risk on amount due from an associate, the Group and the Company have no signifi cant 
concentration of credit risk, with exposure spread over a number of counterparties and tenants.

Hysan Annual Report 2007 121

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F
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A
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A
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I

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Notes to the Financial Statements continued
For the year ended 31 December 2007

34. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS continued
(b) Financial risk management objectives and policies continued
(ii) Liquidity risk
The Group and the Company closely monitors its liquidity requirements and the suffi ciency of cash and available banking 
facilities so as to ensure that the payment obligations are met.

The following table details the remaining contractual maturity of the Group and the Company for their non-derivative fi nancial 
liabilities. The table has been drawn up based on the undiscounted cash fl ows of fi nancial liabilities based on the earliest date on 
which the Group is required to pay. The table includes both interest and principal cash fl ows. The interest payments are 
computed using contractual rates or, if fl oating, based on the prevailing market rate at the balance sheet date. For cash fl ows 
denominated in currency other than Hong Kong dollars, the prevailing foreign exchange rates at the balance sheet date are used 
to convert the cash fl ows into Hong Kong dollars.

Total 
contractual 
Carrying  undiscounted 
cash fl ow 
amount 
HK$ million 
HK$ million 

Within 
1 year or 
on demand 
HK$ million 

More than 
1 year but 
less than 
2 years 
HK$ million 

More than
2 years but
less than 
5 years 
HK$ million 

More than
5 years
HK$ million

The Group 

As at 31 December 2007

Non-derivative fi nancial liabilities
Accounts payable and accruals 
Rental deposits from tenants 
Amounts due to minority shareholders 
Unsecured bank loans 
Floating rate notes 
Fixed rate notes 
Zero coupon notes 

As at 31 December 2006

Non-derivative fi nancial liabilities
Accounts payable and accruals 
Rental deposits from tenants 
Amounts due to minority shareholders 
Unsecured bank loans 
Floating rate notes 
Fixed rate notes 
Zero coupon notes 

(278) 
(339) 
(327) 
(720) 
(549) 
(1,362) 
(230) 

(278) 
(339) 
(327) 
(809) 
(589) 
(1,866) 
(430) 

(3,805) 

(4,638) 

(253) 
(285) 
(327) 
(720) 
(549) 
(1,338) 
(214) 

(253) 
(285) 
(327) 
(850) 
(615) 
(1,963) 
(430) 

(3,686) 

(4,723) 

(278) 
(124) 
(327) 
(29) 
(22) 
(99) 
– 

(879) 

(253) 
(102) 
(327) 
(28) 
(23) 
(102) 
– 

(835) 

– 
(104) 
– 
(29) 
(567) 
(99) 
– 

– 
(107) 
– 
(751) 
– 
(1,668) 
– 

(799) 

(2,526) 

– 
(57) 
– 
(32) 
(23) 
(99) 
– 

– 
(121) 
– 
(790) 
(569) 
(297) 
– 

–
(4)
–
–
–
–
(430)

(434)

– 
(5)
– 
– 
– 
(1,465)
(430)

(211) 

(1,777) 

(1,900)

122

Hysan Annual Report 2007

   
 
 
   
 
   
   
 
 
   
   
34. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS continued
(b) Financial risk management objectives and policies continued
(ii) Liquidity risk continued

Total 
contractual 
Carrying  undiscounted 
cash fl ow 
amount 
HK$ million 
HK$ million 

Within 
1 year or 
on demand 
HK$ million 

More than 
1 year but 
less than 
2 years 
HK$ million 

More than
2 years but
less than 
5 years 
HK$ million 

More than
5 years
HK$ million

The Company

As at 31 December 2007

Non-derivative fi nancial liabilities
Accounts payable and accruals 
Amounts due to subsidiaries 

As at 31 December 2006

Non-derivative fi nancial liabilities
Accounts payable and accruals 
Amounts due to subsidiaries 

(19) 
(42) 

(61) 

(22) 
(104) 

(126) 

(19) 
(42) 

(61) 

(22) 
(104) 

(126) 

(19) 
(42) 

(61) 

(22) 
(104) 

(126) 

– 
– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

–
–

–

– 
– 

– 

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 123

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
   
   
 
 
   
   
Notes to the Financial Statements continued
For the year ended 31 December 2007

34. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS continued
(b) Financial risk management objectives and policies continued
(ii) Liquidity risk continued
The following table details the Group’s remaining contractual maturity for its derivative fi nancial instruments. The table has been 
drawn up based on the undiscounted net cash infl ows (outfl ows) on the derivative instruments that settle on a net basis and 
undiscounted gross infl ows (outfl ows) on those derivatives that require gross settlement. When the amount payable or receivable 
is not fi xed, the amount disclosed has been determined by the prevailing market rate at the balance sheet date. For cash fl ows 
denominated in currency other than Hong Kong dollars, the prevailing foreign exchange rates at the balance sheet date are used 
to convert the cash fl ows into Hong Kong dollars.

Total 
contractual 
Carrying  undiscounted 
cash fl ow 
amount 
HK$ million 
HK$ million 

Within 
1 year or 
on demand 
HK$ million 

More than 
1 year but 
less than 
2 years 
HK$ million 

More than
2 years but
less than 
5 years 
HK$ million 

More than
5 years
HK$ million

The Group 

As at 31 December 2007

Derivative settled net
Interest rate swap 

Derivative settled gross
Forward foreign exchange contracts 
  Outfl ow 
  Infl ow 

Cross currency and net basis swaps 
  Outfl ow 
  Infl ow 

As at 31 December 2006

Derivative settled net
Interest rate swap 

Derivative settled gross
Forward foreign exchange contracts 
  Outfl ow 
  Infl ow 

Cross currency and net basis swaps 
  Outfl ow 
  Infl ow 

(2) 

3

13

(3) 

1

(39)

41 

– 

2 

8 

31

(201) 
206 

(1,659) 
1,707 

(83) 
85 

(57) 
64 

(34) 
35 

(52) 
64 

(84) 
86 

(1,550) 
1,579 

– 
– 

– 
–

33 

7 

1 

4 

21

(185) 
191 

(1,731) 
1,767 

(34) 
35 

(59) 
65 

(34) 
35 

(56) 
64 

(103) 
106 

(168) 
191 

(14)
15

(1,448)
1,447

At the balance sheet date, the Company has no contractual maturity for any derivative fi nancial instruments.

(iii) Interest rate risk
The Group manages its interest rate exposure based on interest rate level and outlook as well as potential impact on the Group’s 
fi nancial position arising from volatility. Interest rate swap is the hedging instrument most commonly used by the Group to 
manage the interest rate exposure (see note 21 for details). As at 31 December 2007, about 60.1% of the Group’s gross debts 
were effectively on a fl oating rate basis. The ratio could change with changes to the interest rate trend going forward.

The Group’s policy is to maintain the proportion of borrowings in fi xed rates and fl oating rates within an appropriate range. 
Accordingly, the Group entered into (i) interest rate swaps to hedge the interest rate risk of the Group’s fl oating rate borrowings 
including bank loans and fl oating rate notes; and (ii) cross currency swaps and an interest rate swap to hedge the interest rate 
risk of certain amounts of the Group’s fi xed rate notes.

124

Hysan Annual Report 2007

   
 
 
   
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
34. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS continued
(b) Financial risk management objectives and policies continued
(iii) Interest rate risk continued
Sensitivity analysis
The sensitivity analysis below has been determined assuming that the change in interest rates had occurred at the balance 
sheet date and had been applied to both derivative and non-derivative fi nancial instruments that would have affected the profi t 
or loss and equity. A change of 75 basis points (“bps”) was applied to the yield curves at respective balance sheet date.

As at 31 December 2007 

As at 31 December 2006 

The Group

Increase (decrease)  
in profi t or loss 

Increase (decrease) 
in equity

75 bps 
increase 
HK$ million 

75 bps 
decrease 
HK$ million 

75 bps 
increase 
HK$ million 

75 bps
decrease
HK$ million

2 

4 

(2) 

(5) 

1 

1 

(1)

(1)

(iv) Currency risk
The Group aims to minimise its currency risk and does not speculate in currency movements. The majority of the Group’s and 
the Company’s assets by value are located, and all rental income are derived, in Hong Kong, and denominated in Hong Kong 
dollars. As at 31 December 2007, all of the Group’s debts were denominated in Hong Kong dollars with the exception of the 
US$182 million 10-year fi xed rate notes. The Group has entered into appropriate hedging instruments to hedge against the 
potential currency risk (see note 21). Other than the 10-year fi xed rates notes, the Group has no other signifi cant currency risk.

Sensitivity analysis
The sensitivity analysis below has been determined assuming that a change in exchange rate had occurred at the balance sheet 
date and had been applied to both derivative and non-derivative fi nancial instruments that would have affected the profi t or loss 
and equity. A change of 300 bps was applied to the HKD:USD spot and forward rates at respective balance sheet date with the 
upper and lower boundaries at 7.75 and 7.85 respectively for the spot rate.

As at 31 December 2007 

As at 31 December 2006 

The Group

Increase (decrease)  
in profi t or loss 

Increase (decrease) 
in equity

300 bps 
increase 
HK$ million 

300 bps 
decrease 
HK$ million 

300 bps 
increase 
HK$ million 

300 bps
decrease
HK$ million

2 

1 

(2) 

(1) 

1 

1 

(1)

(1)

(v) Equity price risk
The Group’s available-for-sale investments and held for trading investments in listed securities are measured at fair value at each 
balance sheet date with reference to the listed share price. Therefore, the Group is exposed to equity price risks and the 
management will monitor the price movements and take appropriate actions when it is required. As at 31 December 2007, the 
Group has outstanding equity derivatives. The equity derivatives are not designated as hedging instrument and hence are 
measured at fair value through profi t or loss.

Sensitivity analysis
The sensitivity analysis below has been determined assuming that a change in the corresponding equity prices had occurred at 
the balance sheet date and had been applied to both the derivatives and the investments that would have affected the profi t or 
loss and equity. A change of 10% in stock prices was applied at respective balance sheet date.

As at 31 December 2007 

As at 31 December 2006 

The Group

Increase (decrease)  
in profi t or loss 

Increase (decrease)
in equity

10% 
increase 
HK$ million 

10% 
decrease 
HK$ million 

10% 
increase 
HK$ million 

10%
decrease
HK$ million

(10) 

(4) 

9 

4 

251 

168 

(251)

(168)

Hysan Annual Report 2007 125

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Notes to the Financial Statements continued
For the year ended 31 December 2007

34. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS continued
(c) Fair value
The fair value of fi nancial assets and fi nancial liabilities are determined as follows:

• 

• 

• 

the fair value of listed investments classifi ed as held for trading and available-for-sale investments and other fi nancial assets 
and fi nancial liabilities with standard terms and conditions and traded on active liquid markets are determined with reference 
to the published price quotations;

the fair value of other fi nancial assets and fi nancial liabilities (excluding derivative instruments) are determined in accordance 
with generally accepted pricing models based on discounted cash fl ow analysis using prices from observable current market 
transactions; and

the fair value of derivative instruments are calculated using quoted prices from independent fi nancial institutions or using 
discounted cash fl ow analysis based on the applicable yield curves and foreign exchange rates. For the Company’s share 
options, the fair value is estimated using Black-Scholes option pricing model.

The Directors consider that the carrying amounts of non-derivative fi nancial assets and fi nancial liabilities approximate their fair 
value, except for the carrying amount of US$182 million (approximate to HK$1,362 million) fi xed rate notes as stated in note 21 
with fair value of US$198 million (approximate to HK$1,543 million).

35. RETIREMENT BENEFITS PLANS
With effect from 1 December 2000, the Group set up an enhanced MPF scheme (the “Enhanced MPF Scheme”), a defi ned 
contribution scheme, for all qualifying employees. The Enhanced MPF Scheme is registered with the Mandatory Provident Fund 
Schemes Authority under Section 124(1) of the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes (General) Regulation.

Pursuant to the rules of the Enhanced MPF Scheme, the Group’s contributions to the plan are based on fi xed percentages of 
members’ salaries, ranging from 5% of MPF Relevant Income to 15% of basic salary. Members’ mandatory contributions are 
fi xed at 5% of MPF Relevant Income, in compliance with MPF legislation.

Total contributions made by the Group during the year amounted to HK$5 million (2006: HK$5 million). Forfeited contributions 
for the year amounted to HK$3 million (2006: HK$3 million) were refunded to the Group.

36. CONTINGENT LIABILITIES
At the balance sheet date, there were contingent liabilities in respect of the following:

Corporate guarantee to a third party in respect of 
  the sale of the interest in an associate 

Corporate guarantee to subsidiaries
  – for issue of fl oating rate notes 
  – for issue of fi xed rate notes 
  – for issue of zero coupon notes 

Guarantees to banks for providing 
  fi nancing facilities to subsidiaries 

The Group 

The Company

2007 
HK$ million 

2006 
HK$ million 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

– 

– 
– 
– 

– 

– 

4 

– 
– 
– 

– 

– 

– 

4

550 
1,420 
430 

2,400 

550
1,415
430

2,395

720 

720

37. CAPITAL COMMITMENTS
At the balance sheet date, the Group had the following capital commitments in respect of its investment properties:

Authorised but not contracted for 

Contracted but not provided for 

126

Hysan Annual Report 2007

The Group

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

1,006 

134 

1,012

153

   
   
 
 
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
38. LEASE COMMITMENTS
(a) As lessee
At the balance sheet date, the Company had commitments for future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating 
leases which fall due as follows:

Within one year 
In the second to fi fth year inclusive 

The Company
2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

15 
6 

21 

15
20

35

Operating lease payments represent rentals payable by the Company to its subsidiaries for its staff quarters and offi ce premises 
which are negotiated and rental are fi xed for two years and three years respectively.

At the balance sheet date, the Group had no commitment under non-cancellable operating lease. 

(b) As lessor
At the balance sheet date, the Group had contracted with tenants for the following future minimum lease payments:

Within one year 
In the second to fi fth year inclusive 
Over fi ve years 

The Group

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

1,104 
1,468 
10 

2,582 

831
1,134
53

2,018

Operating lease payments represent rentals receivable by the Group from leasing of its investment properties. Leases are 
negotiated and rentals are fi xed for an average of one to three years.

39. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS AND BALANCES
(a) Transactions and balances with related parties
The Group has the following transactions with related parties during the year and has the following balances with them at the 
balance sheet date:

Gross rental income received from (Note a) 

Construction cost payable to (Note b) 

Amount due to a minority shareholder (Note c) 

The Group

Substantial shareholders 

Directors

2007 
HK$ million 

2006 
HK$ million 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

6 

– 

– 

6 

– 

– 

26 

– 

94 

23

2

94

Notes:
(a)  The sum of transactions with Directors represented the aggregate gross rental income received under various leases respectively with a Director 
of approximately HK$754,000 (2006: HK$407,000), and companies controlled by Directors or their associates in aggregate of approximately 
HK$25,199,000 (2006: HK$22,876,000).

(b)  Dr. Geoffrey Meou-tsen Yeh and his alternate, V-nee Yeh, were substantial shareholders (and V-nee Yeh was also Chairman) of Hsin Chong 
Construction Group Ltd., whose wholly-owned subsidiary, Hsin Chong Construction (Asia) Limited ("Hsin Chong Asia"), entered into a main 
contract with a subsidiary of the Company relating to the renovation project of Lee Gardens Two. During the year ended 31 December 2007, 
Dr. Geoffrey Meou-tsen Yeh and his alternate, V-nee Yeh, have disposed certain of their interests in Hsin Chong Construction Group Ltd. and 
thereafter they were interested in less than 5% of the issued share capital of Hsin Chong Construction Group Ltd.

The sum represented the sum paid to, or as the case may be, outstanding balances due under the main contract with Hsin Chong Asia. To the 
best of the Company’s knowledge having made due enquiries, substantially the whole of such contracts were sub-contracted by Hsin Chong 
Asia to other sub-contractors. The sum is not the indicative of the amount actually derived by Hsin Chong Asia under the relevant contract, 
which amount is substantially less than the relevant contract sum.

(c)  The sum represented outstanding loan advanced to a non wholly-owned subsidiary of the Group, Barrowgate Limited (“Barrowgate”) by Jebsen 
and Company Limited, of which Hans Michael Jebsen is a director and shareholder, as shareholders loan in proportion to its shareholding in 
Barrowgate for general funding purpose. The amount is unsecured, interest-free and repayable on demand.

Hysan Annual Report 2007 127

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Notes to the Financial Statements continued
For the year ended 31 December 2007

39. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS AND BALANCES continued
(a) Transactions and balances with related parties continued
The Company has the following balances with its subsidiaries at the balance sheet date:

Amounts due from subsidiaries 
Less: Allowances on amounts due therefrom 

Amounts due to subsidiaries 

The Company
2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

13,039 
(258) 

12,781 

42 

13,346
(329)

13,017

104

Details of amounts due from/to subsidiaries are disclosed in note 23 to the fi nancial statements.

(b) Compensation of key management personnel
The remuneration of Directors and other members of key management of the Group and the Company during the year was as 
follows:

Salaries and other short-term employee benefi ts 
Share-based payments 
Retirement benefi ts scheme contributions 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006
HK$ million

17 
3 
1 

21 

24
3
1

28

The remuneration of the Directors and key executives is determined by the Emoluments Review Committee and Managing 
Director respectively having regard to the performance of individuals and market trends.

40. SHARE-BASED PAYMENT TRANSACTIONS
(a) Equity-settled share option schemes
The 1995 Share Option Scheme (the “1995 Scheme”)
The 1995 Scheme was approved by shareholders on 28 April 1995 and had a term of 10 years. It expired on 28 April 2005. All 
outstanding options granted under the 1995 Scheme will continue to be valid and exercisable in accordance with the provisions 
of the 1995 Scheme.

The purpose of the 1995 Scheme was to strengthen the links between individual staff and shareholder interests.

Under the 1995 Scheme, options may be granted to employees of the Company or any of its wholly-owned subsidiaries selected 
by the Board at its discretion to subscribe for ordinary shares of the Company.

The maximum number of shares in respect of which options may be granted under the 1995 Scheme (together with shares 
issued and issuable under the scheme) is 3% of the issued share capital of the Company (excluding shares issued pursuant to 
the scheme and any other share option scheme) from time to time. The maximum number of shares issued under the scheme 
and other scheme will not exceed 10% of the issued share capital of the Company from time to time (excluding shares issued 
pursuant to the scheme and any other share option scheme).

The maximum entitlement of each participant is substantially below the limit set out under the scheme rules (being 25% of the 
maximum number of shares in respect of which options may at any time be granted under the 1995 Scheme). The exercise price 
was  initially  fi xed  at  80%  of  the  average  of  the  closing  prices  of  the  shares  on  the  Stock  Exchange  for  the  20  trading  days 
immediately preceding the date of grant or the nominal value of a share whichever is the greater. The exercise price for options 
granted after 1 September 2001 was amended to comply with amendments to the Listing Rules. Consideration paid on each grant 
of option was HK$1.00, with full payment for exercise price to be made on exercise of the relevant option.

Grants made prior to 8 March 2005 had a holding period of 2 years and a vesting period of 5 years.

128

Hysan Annual Report 2007

   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
40. SHARE-BASED PAYMENT TRANSACTIONS continued
(a) Equity-settled share option schemes continued
The 2005 Share Option Scheme (the “2005 Scheme”)
The Company adopted the 2005 Scheme (together with the 1995 Scheme are referred to as the “Schemes”) at its Annual 
General Meeting (“AGM”) held on 10 May 2005, which has a term of 10 years and will expire on 9 May 2015.

The purpose of the 2005 Scheme is to provide an incentive for employees of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries to 
work with commitment towards enhancing the value of the Company and its shares for the benefi t of its shareholders.

Under the 2005 Scheme, options may be granted to employees of the Company or any wholly-owned subsidiaries (including 
executive Directors) and such other persons as the Board may consider appropriate from time to time on the basis of their 
contribution on the development and growth of the Company and the subsidiaries to subscribe for ordinary shares of the 
Company.

The maximum number of shares in respect of which options may be granted under the 2005 Scheme and any other share 
option scheme of the Company shall not exceed such number of shares as required under the Listing Rules, currently being 
10% of the shares in issue (being 104,996,365 shares) as at 10 May 2005, the date of the AGM approving the 2005 Scheme. 
Under the Listing Rules, a listed issuer may seek approval by its shareholders in general meeting for “refreshing” the 10% limit 
under the scheme. The limit on the number of shares which may be issued upon exercise of all outstanding options granted and 
yet to be exercised under the 2005 Scheme and any other share option scheme of the Company must not exceed 30% of the 
shares in issue from time to time (or such number of shares as required under the Listing Rules). No options may be granted if 
such grant will result in this 30% limit being exceeded.

The maximum entitlement of each participant under the 2005 Scheme must not during any 12-month period exceed such 
number of shares as required under the Listing Rules (which is 1% of the total shares in issue as at the date of shareholders’ 
approval). The exercise price shall be at least the highest of (i) the closing price of the shares as stated in the Stock Exchange’s 
daily quotations sheet on the date of grant; (ii) the average of the closing prices of the shares as stated in the Stock Exchange’s 
daily quotations sheets for the fi ve business days immediately preceding the date of grant; and (iii) the nominal value of the 
shares. Consideration to be paid on each grant of option is HK$1.00, with full payment for exercise price to be made on 
exercise of the relevant option.

(b) Grant and vesting structures
With effect from 8 March 2005, the Board has approved a new grant and vesting structure. Grants will be made on a periodic basis. 
Vesting period is three years in equal proportion. Size of grant will be determined by reference to base salary multiple and job 
grades. A clear performance criterion will be a key driver. The Board will review the grant and vesting structures from time to time.

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 129

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements continued
For the year ended 31 December 2007

40. SHARE-BASED PAYMENT TRANSACTIONS continued
(c) Movement of share options
The following table discloses movements of the Company’s share options held by the Directors and employees during the 
current year:

Date 
of grant 

Exercise 
price 
HK$

Exercisable 
 period 

Balance 
as at 
1.1.2007 

Changes during the year 

Granted  Exercised 

  Cancelled/ 

Balance
as at
lapsed  31.12.2007

7.1.1999 

9.22 

7.1.2001 –   1,350,000 

–  (1,350,000) 

– 

– 

30.3.2005 

15.85 

6.1.2009 

30.3.2005 –  
29.3.2015 

(Note g)

401,333 

– 

(77,666) 

(20,000)  303,667

(Note h) 

(Note j)

6.3.2007 

21.38 
(Note e) 

6.3.2007 –  
5.3.2017

–  235,000 

– 

–  235,000

Name 

1995 Scheme

Executive Director
Peter Ting Chang Lee 

(Note a) 

Eligible employees 
  (Note b) 

2005 Scheme

Executive Directors
Peter Ting Chang Lee 
  (Note c) 

Michael Tze Hau Lee 
  (Note d) 

10.5.2005 

16.60 

30.3.2006 

22.00 

6.3.2007 

Pauline Wah Ling Yu Wong 
  (Note c) 

6.3.2007 

21.38 
(Note e) 

21.38 
(Note e) 

Eligible employees 
  (Note b) 

9.8.2005 

18.79 

10.5.2005 –  
9.5.2015 

30.3.2006 –  
29.3.2016 

6.3.2007 –  
5.3.2017 

6.3.2007 –  
5.3.2017

9.8.2005 –  
8.8.2015 

240,000 

– 

(80,000)  (160,000) 

(Note i) 

(Note j)

188,000 

– 

–  (188,000) 

(Note j)

–  185,000 

–  (185,000) 

(Note j)

–

–

–

–  108,000 

– 

–  108,000

96,000 

12.10.2005 

18.21  12.10.2005 –  
11.10.2015 

120,000 

30.3.2006 

22.00 

26.6.2006 

20.11 

30.3.2006 –  
29.3.2016 

26.6.2006 –  
25.6.2016

325,000 

110,000 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(96,000) 

(Note j)

–  (120,000) 

(Note j)

–

–

–  (106,000)  219,000

(Note j)

– 

–  110,000

30.3.2007 

21.25 
(Note f) 

30.3.2007 –  
29.3.2017 

–  335,000 

– 

(13,000)  322,000

(Note j)

2,830,333  863,000  (1,507,666)  (888,000)  1,297,667

130

Hysan Annual Report 2007

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
40. SHARE-BASED PAYMENT TRANSACTIONS continued
(c) Movement of share options continued
Notes:
(a)  Options granted to Peter Ting Chang Lee had a holding period of 2 years and a vesting period of 5 years.

(b)  Eligible employees are working under employment contracts that are regarded as “continuous contracts” for the purposes of the Employment 

Ordinance. The options granted under the Schemes have vesting periods of 3 years in equal proportions.

(c)  Options granted to Peter Ting Chang Lee and Pauline Wah Ling Yu Wong have a vesting period of 3 years in equal proportions.

(d)  Options granted to Michael Tze Hau Lee had a vesting period of 3 years in equal proportions. Michael Tze Hau Lee stepped down from the 

Board of the Company as from the conclusion of 2007 annual general meeting held on 8 May 2007.

(e)  The closing price of the shares of the Company immediately before the date of grant (as of 5 March 2007) was HK$20.50.

(f)  The closing price of the shares of the Company immediately before the date of grant (as of 29 March 2007) was HK$21.30.

(g)  The weighted average closing price of the shares of the Company immediately before the date on which the options were exercised was 

HK$19.60.

(h)  The weighted average closing price of the shares of the Company immediately before the dates on which the options were exercised was 

HK$21.09.

(i)  The weighted average closing price of the shares of the Company immediately before the date on which the options were exercised was 

HK$21.20.

(j)  The options for 888,000 shares lapsed during the year upon the stepping down of Michael Tze Hau Lee and resignations of certain eligible 

employees.

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 131

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Financial Statements continued
For the year ended 31 December 2007

40. SHARE-BASED PAYMENT TRANSACTIONS continued
(c) Movement of share options continued
The following table discloses movements of the Company’s share options held by the Directors and employees in prior year:

Name 

1995 Scheme

Executive Director
Peter Ting Chang Lee 

(Note a) 

Date 
of grant 

Exercise 
price 
HK$

Exercisable 
 period 

Balance 
as at 
1.1.2006 

Changes during the year 

Granted  Exercised 

  Cancelled/ 

Balance
as at
lapsed  31.12.2006

7.1.1999 

9.22 

7.1.2001 –   1,350,000 

– 

– 

–  1,350,000

Eligible employees 

30.3.2005 

15.85 

(Note b) 

2005 Scheme

Executive Director
Michael Tze Hau Lee 

(Note c) 

10.5.2005 

16.60 

30.3.2006 

22.00 
(Note d) 

Eligible employees 

9.8.2005 

18.79 

(Note b) 

6.1.2009

30.3.2005 – 
 29.3.2015 

10.5.2005 –  
9.5.2015
30.3.2006 –  
29.3.2016

9.8.2005 –  
8.8.2015 

535,000 

–  (128,267) 

(5,400)  401,333

(Note f) 

(Note h)

240,000 

– 

–  188,000 

– 

– 

–  240,000

–  188,000

144,000 

– 

(48,000) 

– 

96,000

(Note g)

12.10.2005 

18.21  12.10.2005 –  

120,000 

– 

– 

–  120,000

11.10.2015

30.3.2006 

22.00 
(Note d) 

30.3.2006 – 
 29.3.2016 

26.6.2006 

20.11 
(Note e) 

26.6.2006 – 
 25.6.2016

–  361,000 

– 

(36,000)  325,000

(Note h)

–  110,000 

– 

–  110,000

2,389,000  659,000  (176,267) 

(41,400)  2,830,333

Notes:
(a)  Options granted to Peter Ting Chang Lee had a holding period of 2 years and a vesting period of 5 years.

(b)  Eligible employees are working under employment contracts that are regarded as “continuous contracts” for the purposes of the Employment 

Ordinance. The options granted under the Schemes have vesting periods of 3 years in equal proportions.

(c)  Options granted to Michael Tze Hau Lee had a vesting period of 3 years in equal proportions.

(d)  The closing price of the shares of the Company immediately before the date of grant (as of 29 March 2006) was HK$22.45.

(e)  The closing price of the shares of the Company immediately before the date of grant (as of 23 June 2006) was HK$20.25.

(f)  The weighted average closing price of the shares of the Company immediately before the dates on which the options were exercised was 

HK$22.09.

(g)  The weighted average closing price of the shares of the Company immediately before the dates on which the options were exercised was 

HK$21.00.

(h)  The options for 41,400 shares lapsed during the year upon resignations of certain eligible employees.

132

Hysan Annual Report 2007

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
40. SHARE-BASED PAYMENT TRANSACTIONS continued
(d) Fair values of share options
The Group has applied HKFRS 2 “Share-based Payments” to account for its share options granted after 7 November 2002 and 
vested after 1 January 2006. In accordance with HKFRS 2, fair value of share options granted to employees determined at the 
date of grant is expensed over the vesting period, with a corresponding adjustment to the Group’s share options reserve. In the 
current year, the Group recognised the share option expenses of HK$4 million (2006: HK$4 million) in relation to share options 
granted by the Company, of which HK$1 million (2006: HK$1 million) related to the Directors (see note 8), with a corresponding 
adjustment recognised in the Group’s share options reserve.

The fair values of share options granted by the Company were determined by using Black-Scholes option pricing model (the 
“Model”). The Model is one of the commonly used models to estimate the fair value of an option. The variables and assumptions 
used in computing the fair value of the share options are based on the management’s best estimate. The value of an option 
varies with different variables of certain subjective assumptions. Any change in the variables so adopted may materially affect the 
estimation of the fair value of an option. The inputs into the Model were as follows:

Closing share price at the date of grant 
Exercise price 
Risk free rate (Note a) 
Expected life of option (Note b) 
Expected volatility (Note c) 
Expected dividend per annum (Note d) 
Estimated fair value per share option 

30.3.2007 

6.3.2007 

26.6.2006 

30.3.2006

Date of grant

HK$21.25 
HK$21.25 
4.192% 
10 years 
29.53% 
HK$0.416 
HK$7.47 

HK$20.80 
HK$21.38 
4.188% 
10 years 
30.12% 
HK$0.416 
HK$7.21 

HK$20.00 
HK$20.11 
4.915% 
10 years 
32.00% 
HK$0.392 
HK$7.81 

HK$22.00
HK$22.00
4.539%
10 years
27.04%
HK$0.390
HK$7.78

Notes:
(a)  Risk free rate: being the approximate yields of 10-year Exchange Fund Notes traded on the date of grant, matching the expected life of each 

option.

(b)  Expected life of option: being the period of 10 years commencing on the date of grant, based on management’s best estimates for the effects of 

non-transferability, exercise restriction and behavioural consideration.

(c)  Expected volatility: being the approximate historical volatility of closing prices of the shares of the Company in the past one year immediately 

before the date of grant.

(d)  Expected dividend per annum: being the approximate average annual cash dividend for the past fi ve fi nancial years.

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 133

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
Notes to the Financial Statements continued
For the year ended 31 December 2007

41. PRINCIPAL SUBSIDIARIES

Name of subsidiary 

Admore Investments Limited 
Golden Capital Investment Limited 
HD Treasury Limited 
Hysan (MTN) Limited 

Hysan China Holdings Limited 

Hysan Leasing Company Limited 
Hysan Property Management Limited 
Hysan Treasury Limited 
Kwong Hup Holding Limited 

Kwong Wan Realty Limited 
Minsal Limited 
Mondsee Limited 
Stangard Limited 

Teamfi ne Enterprises Limited 
Tohon Development Limited 
Bamboo Grove Recreational 
  Services Limited 
Earn Extra Investments Limited 
Gearup Investments Limited 
HD Investment Limited 

Kochi Investments Limited 

Lee Theatre Realty Limited 
Leighton Property Company Limited 
Main Rise Development Limited 
OHA Property Company Limited 
Perfect Win Properties Limited 
Silver Nicety Company Limited 
Barrowgate Limited 

Place of 
incorporation/ 
operation 

Hong Kong 
Hong Kong 
Hong Kong 
British Virgin 
Islands/
Hong Kong
British Virgin 
Islands
Hong Kong 
Hong Kong 
Hong Kong 
British Virgin 
Islands
Hong Kong 
Hong Kong 
Hong Kong 
Hong Kong 

Hong Kong 
Hong Kong 
Hong Kong 

Hong Kong 
Hong Kong 
British Virgin 
Islands
British Virgin 
Islands 
Hong Kong 
Hong Kong 
Hong Kong 
Hong Kong 
Hong Kong 
Hong Kong 
Hong Kong 

Proportion of
nominal value of
issued share capital
held by the Company
indirectly 
directly 

Issued 
share capital 

HK$2 
HK$2 
HK$2 
US$1 

100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 

HK$1 

100% 

HK$2 
HK$2 
HK$2 
HK$1 

HK$1,000 
HK$2 
HK$2 
HK$300,000 

HK$2 
HK$2 
HK$2 

HK$1 
HK$1 
HK$1 

HK$1 

HK$10 
HK$2 
HK$2 
HK$2 
HK$2 
HK$20 
HK$10,000 

100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 

100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 

100% 
100% 
– 

– 
– 
– 

– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
100% 

100% 
100% 
100% 

100% 

100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
100% 
65.36% 

Principal activities

Investment holding
Investment holding
Treasury operation
Treasury operation

Investment holding

Leasing administration
Property management
Treasury operation
Investment holding

Property investment
Property investment
Property investment
Provision of 
security services
Investment holding
Property investment
Resident club 
management
Property investment
Property development
Investment holding

Capital market 
investment
Property investment
Property investment
Investment holding
Property investment
Property investment
Property investment
Property investment

The Directors are of the opinion that a complete list of all subsidiaries and their particulars will be of excessive length and 
therefore the above table contains only those subsidiaries which materially contribute to the net income of the Group or hold a 
material portion of the assets or liabilities or otherwise are operating subsidiaries of the Group. Other than fl oating rate notes, 
fi xed rate notes and zero coupon notes issued by Hysan (MTN) Limited as disclosed in note 29, none of the subsidiaries had 
issued any debt securities at the balance sheet date.

134

Hysan Annual Report 2007

   
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
   
   
 
   
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
Five-Year Financial Summary

2007 
HK$ million 

2006 
HK$ million 

2005 
HK$ million 

2004 
HK$ million 

(restated) 

2003
HK$ million

(restated)

Results
Turnover 
Property expenses 

Gross profi t 
Investment income 
Other gains and losses 
Administrative expenses 
Finance costs 
Change in fair value of 
  investment properties 
Share of results of associates 
Release of negative goodwill  
  of associates 
Reversal of impairment loss 
  recognised in respect of  
  investments in securities 

Profi t before taxation 
Taxation 

Profi t for the year 
Minority interests 

Profi t attributable to equity holders 
  of the Company 

Underlying profi t for the year 

Recurring underlying profi t for the year 

Dividends
  Dividends paid 
  Dividends proposed 
  Dividends per share (HK cents) 

Earnings per share (HK$), based on:
  Profi t for the year

– basic 
– diluted 

Underlying profi t for the year 
  – basic 
Recurring underlying profi t for the year 
  – basic 

Performance Indicators
Net debt to equity 
Net interest coverage (times) 
Net assets value per share (HK$) 
Adjusted net assets value 
  per share (HK$) 
Net debt per share (HK$) 
Year end share price (HK$) 

1,368 
(208) 

1,160 
98 
302 
(106) 
(175) 

3,131 
452 

– 

– 

4,862 
(745) 

4,117 
(168) 

3,949 

1,158 

950 

549 
498 
60.00 

3.75 
3.75 

1.10 

0.90 

6.8% 
7.8x 
30.51 

33.81 
2.29 
22.25 

1,268 
(240) 

1,028 
147 
201 
(111) 
(163) 

2,576 
120 

– 

– 

3,798 
(558) 

3,240 
(141) 

3,099 

1,012 

755 

474 
422 
50.00 

2.94 
2.94 

0.96 

0.72 

7.9% 
6.9x 
26.37 

29.12 
2.31 
20.35 

1,250 
(237) 

1,013 
38 
(25) 
(103) 
(214) 

4,226 
241 

– 

– 

5,176 
(856) 

4,320 
(199) 

4,121 

1,005 

641 

420 
369 
45.00 

3.92 
3.92 

0.96 

0.61 

10.7% 
4.6x 
23.42 

25.76 
2.75 
19.20 

1,154 
(259) 

895 
27 
15 
(96) 
(162) 

– 
39 

2 

63 

783 
(140) 

643 
(34) 

609 

609 

586 

381 
315 
40.00 

0.58 
0.58 

0.58 

0.56 

24.9% 
5.5x 
19.59 

21.33 
5.32 
16.35 

1,139
(239)

900
25
48
(92)
(168)

– 
10

2

– 

725
(165)

560
(26)

534

534

534

378
277
36.50

0.51
0.51

0.51

0.51

31.8%
5.2x
16.51

17.78
5.66
12.00

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 135

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
Five-Year Financial Summary continued

Defi nitions:
(1)  Underlying profi t for the year: profi t adjusted for group’s share of unrealised fair value changes on investment properties net of deferred tax

(2)  Recurring underlying profi t for the year: underlying profi t adjusted for aggregate of realised gain or loss on disposal of investment properties and 

available-for-sale investments, impairment, reversal, recovery and prior year tax provision

(3)  Net debt to equity: borrowings less cash and cash equivalents divided by adjusted shareholders’ funds

(4)  Net interest coverage: gross profi t less administrative expenses before depreciation divided by net interest expenses

(5)  Net assets value/Adjusted net assets value per share: shareholders’ funds / adjusted shareholders’ funds divided by number of issued shares at 

year end

(6)  Net debt per share: borrowings less cash and cash equivalents divided by number of issued shares at year end

(7)  Adjusted shareholders’ funds: shareholders’ funds adjusted for cumulative deferred tax provided for fair value changes on properties 

Assets and Liabilities
Investment properties 
Interests in associates 
Available-for-sale investments 
Time deposit, cash and bank balances 
Other assets 

Total assets 

Borrowings 
Taxation 
Other liabilities 

Total liabilities 

Net assets 
Minority interests 

Shareholders’ funds 

Adjusted shareholders’ funds 

2007 
HK$ million 

2006 
HK$ million 

2005 
HK$ million 

2004 
HK$ million 

(restated) 

2003
HK$ million

(restated)

35,711 
1,601 
2,479 
484 
615 

40,890 

(2,861) 
(4,180) 
(1,001) 

(8,042) 

32,848 
(1,196) 

31,652 

35,072 

32,473 
1,272 
1,745 
385 
378 

36,253 

(2,821) 
(3,574) 
(950) 

(7,345) 

28,908 
(1,080) 

27,828 

30,729 

29,815 
1,147 
1,256 
1,402 
371 

33,991 

(4,301) 
(3,077) 
(960) 

(8,338) 

25,653 
(986) 

24,667 

27,134 

27,917 
855 
1,018 
22 
335 

30,147 

(5,603) 
(2,332) 
(815) 

(8,750) 

21,397 
(831) 

20,566 

22,399 

24,162
850
941
15
302

26,270

(5,914)
(1,708)
(779)

(8,401)

17,869
(642)

17,227

18,553

Note: 
The fi gures for 2003 and 2004 have been restated to refl ect the prior year adjustments arising from (i) reclassifi cation of certain investment properties 
of the Group to property, plant and equipment as a result of the application of HKAS 40 “Investment Property”; (ii) recognition of deferred taxation in 
respect of revalued investment properties in accordance with HK(SIC)INT-21 “Income Taxes – Recovery of Revalued Non-Depreciable Assets”; and 
(iii) reclassifi cation of leasehold interests in land to prepaid lease payments under operating leases according to HKAS 17 “Leases”.

136

Hysan Annual Report 2007

   
 
 
   
 
 
 
Report of the Valuer

To the Board of Directors
Hysan Development Company Limited

Dear Sirs,

Annual revaluation of investment properties as at 31 December 2007

In accordance with your appointment of Knight Frank Petty Limited to value the investment properties in Hong Kong owned by 
Hysan Development Company Limited and its subsidiaries, we are pleased to advise that the market value of the investment 
properties as at 31 December 2007 was in the approximate sum of Hong Kong Dollars Thirty Five Billion Seven Hundred Eleven 
Million Only (i.e. HK$35,711 million).

The investment properties have been valued individually, on market value basis, by reference to comparable market transactions 
and on the basis of capitalisation of the net income with due allowance for the reversionary income and redevelopment potential, 
without allowances for any expenses or taxation which may be incurred in effecting a sale.

Yours faithfully,
Knight Frank Petty Limited

Hong Kong, 5 March 2008

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Hysan Annual Report 2007 137

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Schedule of Principal Properties

As at 31 December 2007

INVESTMENT PROPERTIES

Address

Lot No.

The Lee Gardens 
33 Hysan Avenue 
Causeway Bay 
Hong Kong

Sec. DD of I.L. 29, Sec. L of I.L. 457, 
Sec. MM of I.L. 29, 
the R.P. of Sec. L of I.L. 29,
and the R.P. of I.L. 457

Use

Category
of the Lease

Percentage 
held by 
the Group

Commercial

Long lease

100%

I.L. 8624

Residential

Long lease

100%

Commercial

Long lease

65.36%

Sec. G of I.L. 29, 
Sec. A, O, F and H of I.L. 457, 
the R.P. of Sec. C, D, E and G of I.L. 457, 
Subsec. 1 of Sec. C, D, E and G of I.L. 457, 
Subsec. 2 of Sec. E of I.L. 457 and
Subsec. 1, 2, 3 and 
the R.P. of Sec. C of I.L. 461

Sec. B, C and the R.P. of I.L. 1451

Commercial

Long lease

100%

I.L. 1452, the R.P. of I.L. 472 and 476

Commercial

Long lease

100%

The R.P. of Subsec. 1 of Sec. J of I.L. 29, 
Subsec. 2 of Sec. J of I.L. 29 
and the R.P. of Sec. J of I.L. 29

The R.P. of Subsec. 1 of Sec. J of I.L. 29, 
Subsec. 2 of Sec. J of I.L. 29 
and the R.P. of Sec. J of I.L. 29

Commercial

Long lease

100%

Residential

Long lease

100%

The R.P. of Sec. GG of I.L. 29

Commercial

Long lease

100%

Sec. N of I.L. 457 and Sec. LL of I.L. 29 

Commercial

Long lease

100%

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Bamboo Grove 
74-86 Kennedy Road 
Mid-Levels 
Hong Kong

Lee Gardens Two 
28 Yun Ping Road  
Causeway Bay 
Hong Kong

Leighton Centre 
77 Leighton Road  
Causeway Bay 
Hong Kong

Lee Theatre Plaza 
99 Percival Street  
Causeway Bay 
Hong Kong

Sunning Plaza 
10 Hysan Avenue  
Causeway Bay 
Hong Kong

Sunning Court 
8 Hoi Ping Road  
Causeway Bay 
Hong Kong

8. One Hysan Avenue 
1 Hysan Avenue
Causeway Bay 
Hong Kong

9.

AIA Plaza 
18 Hysan Avenue
Causeway Bay
Hong Kong

10. 111 Leighton Road 

Sec. KK of I.L. 29

Commercial

Long lease

100%

111 Leighton Road
Causeway Bay
Hong Kong

11. 500 Hennessy Road * 

Causeway Bay 
Hong Kong

Sec. FF of I.L. 29 and 
the R.P. of Marine Lot 365

Commercial

Long lease

100%

*  The property is currently under redevelopment. Demolition work on the existing building above ground had been completed and site formation 

work is currently underway. The site has a registered site area of approximately 47,738 square feet. The new development has a projected gross 
fl oor area of around 710,000 square feet and is projected for completion in 2011.

138

Hysan Annual Report 2007

Shareholding Analysis

SHARE CAPITAL
As at 31 December 2007:

Authorised share capital: HK$7,250,000,000, comprising 1,450,000,000 ordinary shares of HK$5.00 each.

Issued and fully paid-up capital: HK$5,187,348,780 comprising 1,037,469,756 ordinary shares of HK$5.00 each.

Class of shares: one class of ordinary shares of HK$5.00 each with equal voting rights.

DISTRIBUTION OF SHAREHOLDINGS
(as at 31 December 2007, as per register of members of the Company)

Size of registered shareholdings 

5,000 or below 
5,001 – 50,000 
50,001 – 100,000 
Above 100,000 

Total 

No. of 
 shareholders 

% of 
 shareholders 

No. of  % of the issued
 share capital 
 shares 
(Note a)

2,626 
1,015 
92 
82 

3,815 

4,896,259 
68.83% 
15,575,533 
26.61% 
2.41% 
6,918,771 
2.15%  1,010,079,193 

0.47%
1.50%
0.67%
97.36%

100%  1,037,469,756 

100%

TYPES OF SHAREHOLDERS
(as at 31 December 2007, as per register of members of the Company)

Type of shareholders 

Lee Hysan Company Limited, Lee Hysan Estate Company, Limited

 and their subsidiaries 

Other corporate shareholders 
Individual shareholders 

Total  

LOCATION OF SHAREHOLDERS
(as at 31 December 2007, as per register of members of the Company)

Location of shareholders 

Hong Kong 
United States and Canada 
United Kingdom 
Singapore 
Others 

Total  

  shares held 

Number of  % of the issued 
share capital 
(Note a)

433,130,735 
555,623,745 
48,715,276 

41.75%
53.55%
4.70%

1,037,469,756 

100%

  shares held 

Number of  % of the issued 
share capital 
(Note a)

1,031,916,417 
4,289,319 
1,131,330 
65,042 
67,648 

99.46%
0.41% 
0.11% 
0.01% 
0.01%

1,037,469,756 

100%

Hysan Annual Report 2007 139

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Shareholding Analysis continued

TOP 10 LARGEST SHAREHOLDERS
(as at 31 December 2007, as per register of members of the Company)

No.   Name of shareholder 

Atlas Corporate Management Limited (Note b) 

Lee Hysan Estate Company, Limited (Note b) 
Kenwin Assets Limited (Note b) 

1.  HKSCC Nominees Limited 
2. 
3. 
4.  Overton Holdings Limited (Note b) 
5. 
6.  Hang Seng (Nominee) Limited 
7.  Clipperton Company Limited (Note b) 
Besticom Investment Limited (Note b) 
8. 
Shanghai Commercial Bank (Nominees) Limited 
9. 
10.  Gowin Investments Limited  (Note b) 

 shares held  

Number of  % of the issued 
share capital 
(Note a)

521,178,555 
270,118,724 
43,902,720 
43,902,720 
39,809,001 
18,577,014 
17,019,739 
8,834,176 
8,392,080 
3,740,105 

50.24%
26.04%
4.23%
4.23%
3.84%
1.79%
1.64%
0.85%
0.81%
0.36%

Total  

975,474,834 

94.03%

Notes:
(a)  The percentages have been compiled based on the total number of shares of the Company in issue as at 31 December 2007 

(i.e. 1,037,469,756 ordinary shares).

(b)  These are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Lee Hysan Company Limited, a substantial shareholder of the Company (see “Substantial Shareholders’ 

and Other Persons’ Interests in Shares” section in Directors’ Report).

140

Hysan Annual Report 2007

 
 
 
 
 
   
Shareholder Information

FINANCIAL CALENDAR
Full year results announced  

Ex-dividend date for fi nal dividend 

Closure of register of members 

Annual General Meeting 

Record date for fi nal dividend 

Dispatch of scrip dividend circular and election form 

Dispatch of fi nal dividend warrants / defi nitive share certifi cates 

2008 interim results to be announced 

*  subject to change

DIVIDEND
The Board recommends the payment of a fi nal dividend of 
HK48 cents per share. Subject to shareholder approval, the 
fi nal dividend will be payable in cash with a scrip dividend 
alternative to shareholders on the register of members as at 
Wednesday, 14 May 2008. The scrip dividend alternative is 
conditional upon the granting by the Listing Committee of 
The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited of the listing of 
and permission to deal in the new shares to be issued 
pursuant thereto.

A circular containing details of the scrip dividend and the 
form of election will be mailed to shareholders on or about 
Wednesday, 21 May 2008. Shareholders who elect for the 
scrip dividend, in lieu of the cash dividend, in whole or in part, 
shall return the form of election to the Company’s Registrars 
on or before Wednesday, 11 June 2008.

Defi nitive share certifi cates in respect of the scrip dividend 
and cheques (for those shareholders who do not elect for 
scrip dividend) will be dispatched to shareholders on or 
about Wednesday, 18 June 2008.

The register of members will be closed from Friday, 9 May 
2008 to Wednesday, 14 May 2008, both dates inclusive, 
for the purpose of determining shareholders’ entitlements 
to the proposed fi nal dividend and during which period no 
transfers of shares will be registered. In order to qualify for the 
proposed fi nal dividend, all transfer documents accompanied 
by the relevant share certifi cates must be lodged with the 
Company’s Registrars not later than 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, 
8 May 2008.

SHARE LISTING
Hysan’s shares are listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong 
Kong Limited. It has a sponsored American Depositary 
Receipts (ADR) Programme in the New York market.

STOCK CODE
The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited: 00014
Bloomberg: 14HK
Reuters: 0014.HK
Ticket Symbol for ADR Code: HYSNY
CUSIP reference number: 449162304

13 March 2008

7 May 2008

9 to 14 May 2008

14 May 2008

14 May 2008

(on or about) 21 May 2008

(on or about) 18 June 2008

5 August 2008 *

SHAREHOLDER SERVICES
For enquiries about share transfer and registration, please 
contact the Company’s Registrars:

Tricor Standard Limited
26/F., Tesbury Centre,
28 Queen’s Road East,
Wanchai, Hong Kong
Telephone: (852) 2980 1768 
Facsimile: (852) 2861 1465

Holders of the Company’s ordinary shares should notify the 
Registrars promptly of any change of their address.

The Annual Report is printed in English and Chinese language 
and is available on our website at www.hysan.com.hk. 
Shareholders may at any time choose to receive the Annual 
Report in printed form in either the English or Chinese 
language or both or by electronic means. Shareholders who 
have chosen to receive the Annual Report using electronic 
means and who for any reason have diffi culty in receiving or 
gaining access to the Annual Report will promptly upon 
request be sent a printed copy free of charge.

Shareholders may at any time change their choice of the 
language or means of receipt of the Annual Report by notice 
in writing to the Company’s Registrars at the address above. 
The Change Request Form may be downloaded from the 
Company’s website at www.hysan.com.hk.

INVESTOR RELATIONS
For enquiries relating to investor relations, please email to 
investor@hysan.com.hk or write to the Company at:

Investor Relations
Hysan Development Company Limited
49/F., The Lee Gardens, 33 Hysan Avenue
Hong Kong
Telephone: (852) 2895 5777
Facsimile: (852) 2577 5153

OUR WEBSITE
Press releases and other information of the Group can be 
found at our Internet website: “www.hysan.com.hk”

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2007 Annual Report

stock code: 00014

Hysan Development Company Limited
49/F The Lee Gardens
33 Hysan Avenue, Hong Kong
T 852 2895 5777   F 852 2577 5153
www.hysan.com.hk