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Micro Focus International

mcro · LSE Financial Services
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Ticker mcro
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Sector Financial Services
Industry Asset Management
Employees 1001-5000
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FY2018 Annual Report · Micro Focus International
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Bridging now 
and next 

Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Contents 

Overview ———
Key highlights

Revenue ($m)
$4,754.4m

Adjusted EBITDA* ($m)
$2,059.6m

01  Overview

1,070

3,684

530

1,529.6

1,380.7

1,245

640.8

532.5

834.5

433.1

348.3

196.4

14 15 16 17 18

14 15 16 17 18

Profit before tax ($m)
$34.1m

Cash generated 
from operations ($m)
$1,424.3m

Diluted Adjusted 
Earnings per 
Share* (cents)
310.19c

104.54

272.9

1,151.4

195.4 195.4

147.8

91.4

205.65

175.7

564.8

456.1

97.5

146.7

129.4

34.1

206.8

288.7

14 15 16 17 18

14 15 16 17 18

14 15 16 17 18

Diluted Earnings 
per Share (cents)
196.2c

Total dividend 
per share (cents)
151.26c

44.8

151.3

82.4

71.6

66.5

56.7

48.40

44.00

34.6

116.66

88.06

66.68

14 15 16 17 18

14 15 16 17 18

*  Adjusted EBITDA and Diluted 
Adjusted Earnings per Share 
are defined in the “Alternative 
Performance Measures” of 
these financial statements.

14  Strategic report
14  Executive Chairman’s statement
17  Chief Executive’s strategic review 
22  Business model
26  Market place
28  Portfolio review
30  Key performance indicators
32  Principal risks and uncertainties
42  Chief Financial Officer’s report
59  Viability statement
60  Corporate social responsibility

68  Corporate governance
69  Executive Chairman’s introduction 
70  Board of directors
72  Corporate governance report
80  Audit committee report
88  Nomination committee report
90  Directors’ Remuneration report
110  Directors’ report

116  Consolidated financial 

statements

117  Alternative Performance Measures 
128 

Independent auditor’s 
report to the members of 
Micro Focus International plc

134  Consolidated financial 
statements and notes 

213  Company financial 

statements and notes
214  Company financial statements 

225  Additional information
226  Offices worldwide 
230  Historical summary 
231  Key dates and share management 
232  Company information

 
 
 
 
 
Our focus is delivering 
innovation that enables 
customers to bridge 
existing and emerging 
technologies; protecting 
their investments and 
supporting their digital 
transformation journey. 
We call this customer 
centric innovation. 
Our proven financial 
and operating model is 
aligned to create value 
for our shareholders.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

01

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Overview

We are proud that our diverse portfolio 
is used across the globe to underpin 
mission critical transactions, processes 
and systems. Day-to-day, we help the 
world function, from SMS transactions 
that are powered by CORBA to car 
manufacturers that use our ADM tools 
to test their in-car technology. Vertica 
is used to power some of the data 
dependent giants of the world and our 
security portfolio secures the access 
and data stored by some of the world’s 
largest financial institutions and 
Governments. Even the Hubble Space 
Telescope uses Micro Focus technology 
to manage communications.

Micro Focus in numbers ———

Our heritage ———

1976

Year established

>$4bn

Revenue (approx.)

>40,000

Enterprise customers

>4,000

Partners

>14,000

Employees in 43 countries

>4,800

Software engineers

>300

Business-critical software products

02

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Our broad and diversified global customer base ———

Who we are ———
A global infrastructure software business 
delivering value to approximately 40,000 
customers over our heritage of more 
than 40 years. Micro Focus is focused 
on customer centric innovation delivered 
through operational effectiveness and 
scale, with revenues of $4,754.4m and 
Adjusted EBITDA of $2,059.6m for the 
18 months ended 31 October 2018.

What we do ———
Powering customers’ digital 
transformation with solutions spanning 
four key areas:

• Enterprise DevOps (Speed)

 – Build and deliver better 

software faster

• Hybrid IT Management (Agility)

 – Operate with agility

• Security, Risk & Governance 

(Security) 
 – Secure what matters most

• Predictive Analytics (Insights) 

 – Analyse in time to act

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

03

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Case study

“ALM Octane has really helped 
to satisfy our transformational 
objectives. We’re producing 
releases faster. We’ve automated 
testing and we’ve introduced 
continuous integration 
and continuous delivery into 
each project.”

Yann Helleboid 
Testing Community Manager

04

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Speed

Orange is now clearly heading towards 
a full DevOps environment

Micro Focus ALM Octane offered a 
highly scalable user-friendly enterprise 
grade solution, generating a real time 
overview. This boosts application delivery 
times, accelerating time to market.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

05

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Case study

“The one platform approach 
with Micro Focus SBM has 
really delivered for us. 
Responsibilities are clearly 
defined and we have improved 
the delivery of IT service 
management, supporting the 
entire software development 
lifecycle on a single platform.”

Martin Hrazdira 
Head of IT, Operations

Agility

Micro Focus brings business and IT 
closer together through consolidation 
and automation of key processes.

Use Micro Focus SSM powered by 
SBM to create a single point of contact 
into IT and streamline both IT and 
business processes.

06

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

07

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Case study

Security

Securing traveller information with 
Micro Focus Security solutions helps 
revenues take off for Allegiant Travel

Micro Focus Voltage SecureData 
means 100% of customer transactions 
can be protected with no credit card 
details stored.

08

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

“IT equals innovation, pure and 
simple. We are an IT company 
that happens to fly airplanes. The 
ability to control the software and 
the IT piece is something that 
makes us better.”

Maury Gallagher Jr.
CEO and Chairman

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

09

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Case study

Insights

Auckland Transport expands video 
analytics and relishes its vision for 
safer road and more efficient public 
transportation

Auckland Transport, the transportation 
agency for the city of Auckland, New 
Zealand, steered a Big Data project 
to glean video analytics from almost 
3,000 closed-circuit television (CCTV) 
cameras, using Micro Focus® IDOL. 
As a result, the city is closer to realising 
its vision of safer roads and efficient 
public transportation.

“As a transport agency, our Micro 
Focus IDOL analytics platform 
is helping us exceed customer 
expectations and shape positive 
perceptions.”

Roger Jones
Executive General Manager

10

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

11

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Timeline

The last two 
years have been 
transformational 
for Micro Focus

This annual report covers the 18 months 
ended 31 October 2018 with the 
comparative period being the 12 months 
ended 30 April 2017.

The Group has undertaken two material 
corporate development activities within 
the 18 months ended 31 October 2018.

• On 1 September 2017, the Group 
acquired the Software business of 
Hewlett Packard Enterprise (“HPE 
Software”), within the Micro Focus 
Product Portfolio.

• On 21 August 2018, our shareholders 

approved the sale of our SUSE 
operating segment. The transaction 
is expected to complete in the first 
quarter of calendar year 2019 and 
SUSE remains under the control of the 
Group until this point. For the purposes 
of the Group’s financial statements 
the SUSE business is treated as 
a discontinued operation.

These transactions have both had 
a material impact on the trading 
performance and presentation of 
the financial statements.

12

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

2016

Q1

Q2

Q3

Q4

7 September 2016
HPE Software acquisition 
announced 

12 months ended 30 April 2017
(will be restated to treat SUSE as 
discontinued)

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2017

2018

2019

Q1

Q2

Q3

Q4

Q1

Q2

Q3

Q4

Q1

Q2

1 September 2017
HPE Software deal 
completion 

2 July 2018
SUSE sale 
announced 

Scheduled to complete 
first calendar quarter 
2019.

18 months ended 31 October 2018
(SUSE treated as discontinued)

FY17
Pro forma revenue and Adjusted 
EBITDA for 12 months ended 
31 October 2017 (including 
SUSE and HPE Software)

FY18
Proforma (12 months ended 31 October 2018) 
including SUSE

FY18
(12 months ended 31 October 2018) 
(SUSE discontinued)

Revenue and Adjusted 
EBITDA provided,  
to help assess 
performance against 
guidance and 
consensus

Full income statement 
disclosure, as baseline 
against which to 
measure future 
performance 

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

13

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Executive Chairman’s statement 

“The board continues 
to have full confidence 
in the HPE Software 
business acquisition, 
the Micro Focus 
investment proposition 
and shareholder 
returns model.”

Kevin Loosemore
Executive Chairman
20 February 2019 

14

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

The period under review is an 18 month 
timeframe, as a result of moving our 
year-end from the end of April to the 
end of October.

continues to have full confidence in 
the HPE Software business acquisition, 
the Micro Focus investment proposition, 
and our shareholder returns model.

This has been a significant time of 
change for the Group following our 
transaction to acquire the HPE Software 
business, which completed on 
1 September 2017. The improved 
financial and operational performance 
in the second half of the year to 
31 October 2018 is evidence that under 
the leadership of Stephen Murdoch as 
CEO we have seen a robust application 
of the Micro Focus business model after 
a challenging start to the integration. 
We are approximately a year behind 
where we expected to be in terms of 
the integration programme, and these 
challenges have been disruptive and 
difficult at times, but significant progress 
has been made in stabilising systems 
and people and instilling customer 
centric discipline. As a result, the board 

We are a consolidator in the fragmented 
infrastructure software market, and the 
HPE Software business transaction is 
the latest proof point of our strategy 
to pursue a portfolio management 
approach designed to deliver strong 
shareholder returns over time. 
Announcements of other significant 
M&A in this market confirm that this 
consolidation is active and relevant. 
The board is confident that the Company 
is well placed to pursue further 
consolidation in time and apply its 
established and effective business 
model to previously inappropriately 
managed assets, and so generate a 
sustainable returns model aligned with 
shareholder interests. As part of our 
portfolio management, on 2 July 2018 
we announced the sale of the SUSE 
business for $2.5bn. The transaction 

is expected to complete in the first 
calendar quarter of 2019. When we 
acquired the Attachmate Group in 
November 2014 for $2.35bn, SUSE 
represented approximately 20% of 
the revenues of the acquired assets. 
The sale of SUSE to EQT Partners 
represents an outstanding return on 
investment for our shareholders.

Capital allocation and debt position
The leverage target for the Group 
remains 2.7 times net debt to Adjusted 
EBITDA. The strong cash generation 
qualities of the Company support this 
level of indebtedness with the debt level 
already having reduced from the time of 
the completion of the HPE Software 
business transaction on 1 September 
2017 to 2.8 times at 31 October 2018, 
in line with our initial plans. The 
forthcoming completion of the sale of 
SUSE will generate approximately 
$2.06bn in net proceeds, which we 
intend to return to shareholders after 
any required debt repayment.

Diluted Adjusted Earnings per share and dividends per share in cents
FY 2006 to FY 2017
Diluted Adjusted EPS

Dividend per share

.

5
6
5
0
2

.

5
6
5
7
1

.

0
7
6
4
1

.

3
4
9
2
1

8
4
7.
9

.

7
8
4
8

.

0
0
0
4

0
0
4
4

.

0
4
8
4

.

6
0
8
8

.

8
6
6
6

.

.

6
6
6
1
1

.

7
0
6
5

1
8
3
5

.

0
8
1
2

.

0
4
3
2

.

.

2
3
0
4

0
0
3
1

.

0
0
6
1

.

3
9
0
7

.

0
6
1
3

.

.

2
7
3
2

3
2
4
1

.

0
0
6

.

.

7
2
1
0 3
0
0
1

.

FY06

FY07

FY08

FY09

FY10

FY11

FY12

FY13

FY14

FY15

FY16

FY17

FY18 

Notes: 
FY18 reflects 12 months ended 31 October 2018 with all other reference dates being 12 months dated 30 April.

In the 18 months ended 31 October 2018, the Group generated a Diluted Adjusted EPS of 310.19 cents of which 205.65 cents has been generated in the last 
12 months. This compares to 175.65 cents in the 12 months ended 30 April 2017, demonstrating the level of value accretion already delivered following the 
acquisition of the HPE Software business.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

15

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Recent months 
have seen robust 
application of 
the Micro Focus 
business model 
and encouraging 
progress ———

Executive Chairman’s statement Continued 

Dividend
During this 18 month transitionary 
period, we have paid two interim 
dividends and proposed a final dividend 
of 58.33 cents, taking total dividend per 
share to 151.26 cents for the 18 month 
period. On an annualised basis, this 
total dividend is 100.84 cents per share 
which is growth of 14.5% on the full 
year dividend for the year ended 
30 April 2017 of 88.06 cents per share. 
Notwithstanding the pattern of dividends 
during the past 18 month period, the 
dividend policy remains unchanged at 
two times covered by the adjusted 
earnings of the Company. In future 
periods, we will return to our approach of 
paying a single interim and final dividend 
for the financial year. 

The dividend will be paid in Sterling 
equivalent to 45.22 pence per share, 
based on an exchange rate of 
£1 = $1.29, the rate applicable on 
13 February 2019, the date on which 
the board resolved to propose the 
dividend. Subject to approval by 
shareholders, the dividend will be paid 
on 5 April 2019 to shareholders on 
the register at 1 March 2019.

Kevin Loosemore
Executive Chairman
20 February 2019

The board will keep the appropriate 
level of debt under review and 
Micro Focus will be consistent in its 
policy of not holding surplus cash 
on the balance sheet 

On 29 August 2018, the Company 
announced the start of a share buy-back 
programme for an initial tranche of up 
to $200m which was extended 
on 5 November 2018 to the total value 
of $400m (including the initial tranche). 
Up to and including 13 February 2019 
the Company had spent $400m and 
purchased 22,455,121 shares at 
an average price of £13.82 per share. 
We are now extending this buy-back 
programme into a third tranche of up to 
$110m to be executed in the period 
from 14 February 2019, up until the day 
before the AGM which takes place on 
29 March 2019 when the current 
buy-back authority approved by 
shareholders at the 2017 AGM to make 
market purchases of up to 65,211,171 
ordinary shares will expire.

Board changes
Since the last annual report there has 
been significant change at board level 
as well as in the business. Silke Scheiber, 
Darren Roos and Lawton Fitt joined the 
board as non-executive directors, all 
bringing directly relevant skill sets to 
support the newly enlarged Company. 
Karen Slatford, Richard Atkins and 
Amanda Brown, together with myself, 
provide continuity and long-term 
experience of the Micro Focus business 
and strategy.

We enter the new 2019 fiscal year with 
new Executive leadership on the board; 
Stephen Murdoch was appointed CEO 
in March 2018 and re-joined the board 
at that time. In November 2018, we 
announced Brian McArthur-Muscroft 
as CFO-designate. Brian will formally 
join the board as CFO on 21 February 
2019 and Chris Kennedy will step down 
from the board on that date. The Group 
has assembled a strong management 
team comprised of leaders from 
Micro Focus, the HPE Software 
business and new hires.

16

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Chief Executive’s strategic review

“Systematic 
application of the 
Micro Focus 
business model is 
now driving better 
clarity of purpose.”

Stephen Murdoch
Chief Executive
20 February 2019

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

17

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Chief Executive’s strategic review Continued

In the period under review, Micro Focus 
has become a much larger company 
with a broader and more diverse portfolio 
of products that is better able to serve 
our customers’ needs, and with the 
opportunity to continue to create 
significant value for our shareholders 
over the long-term. The path to our 
current position has been a complex and 
difficult one over the last year as we 
worked to integrate the HPE Software 
business acquisition. Integrations of 
this scale are always challenging and 
significant programmes of work are still 
in progress but we believe the most 
disruptive issues experienced since 
completion are now behind us.

In this strategic review, I cover our 
performance in the period, reiterate 
the key elements of our strategy and 
business model, explain how we have 
addressed the main challenges faced 
in the integration of the HPE Software 
business since completion of the 
transaction on 1 September 2017, and 
comment on our outlook for the coming 
financial year. 

Performance in the period
The Group reported revenues of 
$4,754.4m for the 18 months ended 
31 October 2018 (12 months ended 
30 April 2017: $1,077.3m) and 
Operating Profit of $376.8m 
(12 months ended 30 April 2017: 
$227.4m). Our statutory results are 
covered in more detail in the Chief 
Financial Officer’s report. 

Due to the transformational nature of 
the HPE Software business acquisition, 
and the fact this is an 18 month period 
under review compared to the preceding 
12 month period, comparative financial 
performance is also presented on a 
pro-forma basis. The pro-forma results 
include the discontinued SUSE business 
and 12 months of results for the 
acquired HPE Software business in both 
the 12 months ended 31 October 2018 
and the 12 months ended October 2017. 

We believe the 
most disruptive 
issues experienced 
since completion 
are behind us ———

Pro-forma revenues of $4,058.0m for 
the 12 months ended 31 October 2018 
represent a decline of 5.3% on a 
pro-forma constant currency basis 
(2017: $4,286.8m) against management 
guidance issued in March 2018 of 
a decline between 6% and 9%. 

Adjusted EBITDA for the Group was 
$2,059.6m for the 18 months ended 
31 October 2018 (12 months ended 
30 April 2017: $640.9m). On a pro-
forma basis at actual exchange rates, 
the Group delivered a 9.2% growth in 
Adjusted EBITDA to $1,529.6m for the 
12 months ended 31 October 2018 
(2017: $1,401.1m), reflecting good 
progress in the cost management 
actions related to the integration 
programme. This performance translates 
to a 37.7% Adjusted EBITDA margin.

Recent operational improvements, 
evidenced by the stabilisation of our 
revenue performance and the continued 
expansion in our profit margins, are 
encouraging signs of early progress. 
There is a great deal still to do to build 
the operational foundations and flexibility 
we want as we drive to capture fully 
the significant opportunity ahead in both 
the existing business and the market 
more broadly.

(For a more detailed review of our 
financial performance, see the Chief 
Financial Officer financial review on 
pages 42 to 59). 

The Micro Focus strategy 
and business model
Micro Focus’ strategy and business 
model are designed to deliver sustained 
customer value and strong, consistent 
shareholder returns over the long-term.

The market dynamics that have driven 
our strategy and business model since 
2011 have not changed. We continue 
to believe the infrastructure software 
market is fragmented and consolidating. 
This belief has been supported by 
significant M&A elsewhere in the market 
during the 18 month period under review. 
Micro Focus continues to build the scale 
and operational efficiency to be a leader 
in this consolidation over time. Our 
unwavering focus on delivering customer 
value through effective long-term 
product management, coupled with our 
operational efficiency and consistent, 
disciplined capital allocation, make us 
well placed to succeed. 

Our strategy is grounded in more than 
40 years’ experience delivering proven, 
scalable and robust infrastructure 
software solutions and we now serve 
more than 40,000 customers through 
a global team of approximately 14,000 
employees. 

The business environment in which 
our customers operate is increasingly 
competitive and the systems, 
applications and infrastructure that 
underpin their business operations are 
highly complex. Customers want and 
need a partner for the long-term that is 
committed to, and capable of, helping 
them modernise and protect their 
existing technology, adopt innovation 
and exploit new business models while 
maximising the value of and return from 
existing investments. Partnership with 
Micro Focus enables customers to better 
exploit new opportunities, deal with 
changing operational and legislative 
requirements, and increasingly 
sophisticated cyber threats. From a 
product portfolio perspective, the 
foundation of our strategy and business 
model is direct engagement with 
customers to ensure we deliver the 

18

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

products, solutions and deployment 
options they need – we call this 
“customer centric innovation”. 

In essence, we bridge the old and 
the new to deliver innovation faster at 
lower risk and are committed to being 
a consistent, reliable partner for the 
long-term.

(For a more detailed explanation of the 
marketplace see pages 26 to 27 and of 
the Micro Focus business model see 
pages 22 to 25).

Applying the Micro Focus 
business model
As the industry continues to consolidate, 
Micro Focus can draw upon extensive, 
relevant experience having completed 
and successfully integrated 15 
acquisitions in the past decade. The 
integration of the HPE Software 
business has involved additional 
complexities, largely because it was 
a carve-out of a division from a larger 
parent, as opposed to the acquisition 
of a business that had been operating 
independently. The HPE Software 
business was a fully integrated, albeit 
small division of HPE that relied upon 
the parent company’s strategy, business 
model and central support functions. 
As a result, there has been much more 
work to do on this integration in the 
areas of go-to-market, business process 
simplification and IT systems, within a 
broader challenge on overall style, tone 
and pace of execution.

Systematic application of the 
Micro Focus business model is now 
driving better clarity of purpose, the 
alignment of goals and the creation 
of a more dynamic environment where 
execution is faster, operations simpler 
and people more accountable. 

Product Portfolio
Across the five product portfolios we 
report against we have more than 300 
products. The execution against our goal 
of customer centric innovation has been 
strong. Customer commitments and 
thought leadership have been delivered 

across the product portfolio with more 
than 500 product releases in the year, 
ranging from small functional updates 
through to completely re-architected 
solutions and highly innovative new 
capabilities. 

This represents great depth of capability 
and experience to help our customers 
address some of the most complex 
challenges they face. To better enable 
our customers and partners to exploit 
this breadth and depth we are re-aligning 
resources to develop compelling value 
propositions across four focus areas – 
Enterprise DevOps; Hybrid IT 
Management; Security, Risk & 
Governance; and Predictive Analytics. 
The strength and competitive 
differentiation across these areas is 
significant and I am excited by what we 
do for customers today and the potential 
we have to do even more in the future. 

(There are examples of how we help 
customers throughout this report and 
for a more detailed explanation of our 
customer propositions and leading 
products see pages 28 to 29).

Go-to-Market organisation and 
execution capability
Following completion of the acquisition 
of the HPE Software business, a 
combined go-to-market organisation 
was implemented and launched on 
1 November 2017. This design and 
implementation was overly complex in 
both structure and processes, and the 
resulting lack of clarity and accountability 
led to significant sales execution issues, 
which were compounded by the IT 
systems challenges covered later in this 
report. Both these issues combined to 
drive significantly elevated levels of 
attrition within the sales organisation. 
Correcting organisational design issues 
and improving execution has been a key 
priority of the management team since 
March. Improvement measures have 
focused on the consistent execution of 
simpler, more effective sales processes. 
These have been underpinned by better 
alignment and accountability within the 
sales management teams through the 

removal of unnecessary global structures 
and management layers.

To improve the quality of customer 
engagement, we have made 
organisational changes to align 
marketing and product teams much 
more tightly and invested in a consistent 
approach to enablement globally. In 
addition, investments were made to 
re-build an appropriate account 
management programme to support our 
largest customers. These capabilities 
were part of the broader HPE and 
existing Micro Focus coverage models 
prior to completion but were not catered 
for effectively in the initial design post 
completion. 

In April 2018, Micro Focus established a 
new approach to comply with US federal 
requirements and to better serve the 
needs of our classified and controlled 
US Federal Government customers. This 
involved a strategic partnership where 
customer engagement and operations 
where undertaken by a third party on 
our behalf. 

The hiring engine has been re-
engineered and is now functioning 
effectively. It is anticipated that the 
combination of more empowerment 
through clarity of accountability, better 
enablement and improved hiring and 
on-boarding will see attrition levels 
stabilise further and begin to trend down.

A disciplined sales management process 
has been established globally to drive 
the consistently high levels of sales 
execution expected from the organisation 
and we have strengthened the team at 
all levels but notably through the 
appointment of Jon Hunter as Chief 
Revenue Officer. Jon joins us with 
extremely relevant experience and 
a great track-record in leading global 
sales teams.

There are always improvements to be 
made in sales execution and this will 
remain the key focus for Jon and the 
sales leadership team. 

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

19

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information  
Chief Executive’s strategic review Continued

We remain 
focused on and 
fully committed 
to running our 
enlarged operations 
as effectively 
and efficiently 
as possible ———

IT Systems
At the time of the combination of the 
Micro Focus and the HPE Software 
businesses, we envisaged that we 
would migrate the existing Micro Focus 
business onto a new set of IT systems 
designed and implemented by HPE to 
support the carve out and sale of their 
software business. Unfortunately, 
challenges with these IT systems have 
been significant, including issues around 
data migration, system configuration and 
the integration of applications. In the six 
months to 30 April 2018 in particular, 
this impacted our ability to quote, invoice 
and collect cash, as well as pay suppliers, 
partners and our sales teams.

These systems are now stable and able 
to support the operations of the business 
but still require more manual intervention 
than we want. There is significant 
foundational work underway to address 
this, focused on the back office 
organisation to simplify operations and 
processes, increase automation and 
improve resilience to drive operational 
efficiencies. The issues experienced and 
the subsequent foundational remediation 
work required have slowed our plan to 
migrate to a single IT platform.

This is being addressed through a 
parallel project underway to build the 
future, simplified systems architecture 
for the Group, which upon completion 
will enable further automation of the 
improved processes and deliver the 
platform for on-going operational 
improvements. Until the completion 
of that project, the Group continues to 
operate on two IT architectures with 
the attendant complexity this adds to 
our business operations and control 
environment. To maintain the required 
control environment, the Group relies 
upon automated, semi-automated and 
manual controls together with a 
combination of preventative and 
detective controls.

Continuous improvement of 
day-to-day operations
Our business model is focused on 
delivering targeted, relevant business 
outcomes for customers and consistent 
returns for shareholders. 

The foundation of this is the development 
of a Company-wide culture of continuous 
improvement delivering fit-for-purpose 
operations and a more dynamic, 
execution-orientated environment where 
team members are empowered and 
accountable and the overall organisation 
aligned to common goals.

In support of this, we are making 
additional investments in the enablement 
and development of our team, increasing 
focus on people engagement, inclusion 
and diversity, and developing a more 
comprehensive Corporate Social 
Responsibility plan. 

We remain focused on and fully 
committed to running our enlarged 
operations as effectively and as 
efficiently as possible while driving our 
key integration priorities, notably 
improved IT systems and back office 
functions, to completion. 

Financial discipline
Our focus on operational rigour and 
effectiveness is coupled with robust 
financial and capital allocation discipline. 

The merger of the Micro Focus and 
HPE Software business has provided 
a significant opportunity for operational 
improvements and cost efficiencies. To 
date there has been good progress on 
cost reduction as evidenced by the 
continued expansion in Adjusted EBITDA 
margin, with further opportunities ahead. 

The on-going optimisation of our 
operations is designed to deliver strong 
operating margins through the realisation 
of these cost efficiencies at pace, 
balanced with the continued delivery of 
our core value proposition of making, 
selling and supporting infrastructure 
software solutions that customers value 
and rely on. Effective execution will 
deliver a platform for further M&A that 
targets underperforming assets ready 
to be improved by the application of the 
Micro Focus business model. 

Our net debt represents a modest level 
of gearing for a company with the 
cash-generating qualities of Micro Focus, 
with a target net debt to Adjusted 
EBITDA multiple of 2.7 times. We are 
confident that this level of debt will not 
reduce our ability to deliver our strategy, 
invest in products and make appropriate 
acquisitions. Micro Focus has a strong 
balance sheet and our lenders are 
supportive of our strategy and business 
model. At 31 October 2018, we had net 
debt of $4.25bn representing a net debt 
to pro-forma Adjusted EBITDA ($1.5bn) 
of 2.8 times. Without the $171.7m of 
share buy-backs in the period we would 
have reached our medium-term target of 
2.7 times within 14 months compared 
with the 24 months which was 
anticipated at the time of completion of 
the HPE Software business transaction.

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Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Micro Focus’ 
strategy and 
business model 
are designed to 
deliver strong 
and consistent 
shareholder 
returns over the 
long-term ———

At the date of the preliminary 
announcement on 14 February 2019, 
we issued constant currency revenue 
guidance for the Micro Focus Product 
Portfolio (“MFPP”) continuing business 
for the 12 months to 31 October 2019 
of minus 4% to minus 6% compared to 
the 12 months ending 31 October 2018. 
We continue to target a Net Debt to 
Adjusted EBITDA target of 2.7 times 
together with a regular dividend twice 
covered by adjusted earnings. 

Performance in first quarter FY19 
(ended 31 January 2019) is in line with 
this guidance.

The last 18 month period has been 
transformational for Micro Focus and 
has been, at times, very challenging and 
disruptive for our employees. I am proud 
of their professionalism and hard work 
and I am delighted to share the 
progressive sense of common purpose 
and clear direction that is building within 
the Company as we move firmly from 
the one-off transitional effects of the 
combination with the HPE Software 
business to the running and continuous 
improvement of a successful, enlarged 
operation.

Stephen Murdoch
Chief Executive
20 February 2019 

Value creation – SUSE sale 
On 2 July 2018, we announced definitive 
terms, subject to shareholder approval, 
for the sale of SUSE for a total cash 
consideration of $2.535bn to EQT. We 
believe this price represents a highly 
attractive enterprise valuation for SUSE 
at a multiple of approximately 7.9 times 
revenue and 26.7 times Adjusted 
Operating Profit for the 12 months to 
31 October 2017 and reflects an 
excellent return on the investments we 
have made to support and grow this 
business since it was acquired in 2014. 
In addition to a great value return for 
shareholders, we see the purchaser, EQT, 
as a strong long-term investor for SUSE.

In line with our capital allocation strategy 
we intend to return the net sale proceeds 
to shareholders after tax, transaction 
costs and any required debt repayments 
have been accounted for. This will be 
effected through a Return of Value to 
be implemented after completion of the 
transaction, which is currently anticipated 
to be towards the end of the first calendar 
quarter of 2019.

Group outlook
Micro Focus’ strategy and business 
model are designed to deliver strong and 
consistent shareholder returns over the 
long-term. We are encouraged by 
progress over recent months and believe 
we are getting back on track to focus on 
our outstanding customer and partner 
relationships founded on delivering 
software that is essential to mission-
critical business processes, and to 
provide our investors with consistently 
strong results going forward. Our 
technology, expertise and the 
commitment to enabling customers to 
both embrace new innovation and 
leverage their established IT investments 
is a major positive differentiator in the 
infrastructure software market. 

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

21

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Business model

“Micro Focus has a 
proven financial and 
operating model 
which is aligned to 
create value for both 
our customers and 
shareholders.”

Stephen Murdoch
Chief Executive
20 February 2019

22

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Business model
The typical stages of a product life 
cycle are from new product introduction 
through to high growth to broad 
adoption and maturity, to decline and 
ultimately obsolescence.

Product lifecycle

‘Me too’ 
models

New tech 
models

Micro Focus area of primary focus –  
Customer centric innovation

Potential change 
in trajectory 
(return to growth)

Reduce rates 
of decline

Introduction

Growth

Maturity

Decline

Market dynamics
• Innovative and often disruptive technologies
• High capex and R&D
• User base rapidly expanding 
• Products repeatedly enhanced

Market dynamics
• Infrastructure software: embedded products 

with high switching costs

• Limited growth capex
• Margin expansion and efficiency opportunities

Investment strategy
• Investing in growth

Investment strategy
• Returns driven by maximising cash flow

We are an infrastructure software company. We make, sell and support software.  
Our focus is delivering what we call customer centric innovation. This is innovation that 
enables customers to bridge existing and emerging technologies, protecting investments and 
supporting their digital transformation. We seek to be agile and efficient, easy to do business 
with, and to have a stable, skilled and diverse workforce. Our goal is to deliver consistently 
high levels of shareholders returns for the long-term. 

Portfolio management

New models
Products or consumption models (cloud and 
subscription) that open new opportunities 
could become growth drivers or represent 
emerging use cases that we need to be able 
to embrace.

Growth drivers
Products with consistent growth performance 
and market opportunity to build the future 
revenue foundations of the Group.

Optimise
Products with declining revenue performance 
driven by the market or execution. 
Investments directed to correct trajectory to 
move back to the core category or focused to 
optimise long-term returns.

Core
Products that have maintained broadly flat 
revenue performance but represent the 
current foundations of the Group and must 
be protected and extended.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

23

Current portfolio  
– underpinning the business 
model and clear execution and 
investment discipline
When considering investment priorities, 
both organic and inorganic, we evaluate 
our options against a set of 
characteristics mapped to each stage 
of this adoption cycle enabling the 
categorisation of our product portfolio 
into one of the four quadrants 
represented in the table below.

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Business model Continued 

How we run 
our business

The Micro Focus strategy and proven 
operating model continues to position 
this organisation as a financially strong 
and successful leader in the 
infrastructure software sector. Key to 
our strategy is the consistent delivery 
of “Customer centric innovation” that 
delivers tangible business impact for 
customers in all stages of the software 
lifecycles. This results in enabling new 
business models or use cases, reducing 
operational costs and risks, and 
protecting existing investments so to 
extend productive use.

By enabling customers to apply the 
latest innovations to their existing 
technology investments; Micro Focus 
helps customers gain additional return 
on investment they have already made 
and reduces risk by allowing them to 
preserve and protect their existing data 
and business logic.

The customer proposition

What sets us apart

What drives our 
business

What this means for 
our customers

1. Strong products and 
intellectual property
Our products are deeply 
embedded in customers’ 
infrastructure and underpin 
transactions, processes 
and systems globally.

Bridging the now and the 
next
We bridge the now and the 
next, enabling mission 
critical applications and data 
to continue to be leveraged 
across the organisation.

Improved return 
on investment
… so customers can 
extend productive use 
and maximise return on 
investment (“ROI”).

2. Broad portfolio
Our portfolio delivers solutions 
across many IT disciplines and 
provides customers with the 
opportunity to simplify their 
vendor landscape.

Latest innovative  
features
We build the latest innovative 
features and capabilities 
that are enterprise-grade 
and scalable into our core 
products.

Reduce risk
… so customers can 
run and transform their 
business through adopting 
innovation with less risk.

Easy to do 
business with
We provide customers 
with the choices to meet 
their IT operating 
objectives and run their 
business models. This 
includes flexibility in both 
deployment and 
commercial models.

Flexibility
… so customers can 
select what works for their 
enterprise and budget. 
This allows customers to 
plan for today and 
tomorrow with flexibility 
to adapt and change.

3. Customer centric 
innovation
We fully understand the needs 
of customers and deliver 
tangible business impact.

4. The four-box model
Our investment priorities 
consider opportunities in all 
stages of the product lifecycle 
to ensure that we maximise 
the value delivered to the 
customers over the entire life 
of a product.

24

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

What this means for our investors

What sets us apart

What drives our 
business

What this means for 
our investors

1. We operate at size 
and scale 
As a natural consolidator in 
the market, we have economies 
of scale leveraging shared 
functions and resources across 
our portfolio.

A proven financial 
operating model
Efficient and fit for 
purpose operating model 
supported by strong 
financial discipline. 

Return on investment
Total shareholder returns 
of between 15% and 20%.

2. People 
We have a broad, 
highly experienced 
management team, 
skilled in applying the 
Micro Focus financial 
and operating model.

Value creation  
through consolidation
Experience in bringing 
together complex 
products through market 
consolidation, delivering 
better integration and 
strong value creation.

Margins
Industry leading 
operating margins.

Efficiency in  
capital allocation
Efficient investment in 
capital whether organic 
or inorganic.

Cash returns
Exceptional levels of 
cash generation and 
returns to shareholders.

3. Highly cash generative 
portfolio 
We have a broad portfolio 
of products with significant 
market positions and high 
switching costs. This 
generates significant 
recurring revenue streams 
and cash generation.

4. A track record of market 
consolidation
We have a proven track-record 
of consolidating the market and 
successfully executing complex 
integrations.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

25

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Marketplace

The market in 
which we operate

Our customer’s IT environment 
is very complex 
Over many years technology and 
innovation has transformed most 
organisations, multiple times. It 
continues today. This repeated 
transformation in the relatively short 
history of the IT industry has created 
very complex environments. Co-located, 
highly cohesive teams with deep subject 
matter expertise have become highly 

distributed, multi-disciplined teams that 
work at speed. The realisation of new 
computing platforms, new networking 
infrastructures and new application 
access models has produced a very 
complex picture, and enterprise 
organisations need to balance many 
technology and platform combinations 
simultaneously. Importantly, in order to 
manage this complexity, companies 
must exist in multiple paradigms 

simultaneously – which means 
connecting mainframes with client 
server systems with mobile applications: 
all in a mixture of on-premise and 
off-premise workloads. With the 
business environment constantly 
changing, this becomes very hard to do; 
and even harder to do at speed and with 
acceptable levels of risk.

CORBA

The new normal
The behaviours of IT users have changed 
substantially over the last decade. These 
behaviours have created a new set of 
expectations that IT must continuously 
deliver while at the same time budgets 
have been reduced. This “new normal” 
requires IT to adapt and react to new 
demands and user expectations while 
increasing returns and reducing risk.

Enable Mobility 
& Access

Consumerisation 
of IT

Analytics & 
Cross Sell

SaaSify  
Business 
Value

Differentiated 
Client Service 
& Experience

Above the line mandate: find new revenue

Below the line core mandate: optimise the enterprise

Cost Reduction 
Driven 
Rationalisation

Agile Cloud 
Delivery 
Models

Common 
Standardised 
Infrastructure

Automation & 
Process 
Reengineering

Bring Your 
Device  
To Work

26

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

A drive to digital transformation

Speed

Agility

Security

Insights

Enterprise DevOps
Build and deliver better  
software faster

Hybrid IT Management
Operate with agility 

Security, Risk & Governance
Secure what matters most  
– identities, applications, and data

Predictive Analytics
Accurate predictions, actionable 
insights, and automated discovery

In the digital economy, time-to-market 
and quality determine success. With our 
solutions, our customers can unleash 
the power of DevOps across their hybrid 
IT landscape — quickly bringing 
innovative ideas to life at the pace your 
business demands. Now speed and 
quality can go hand in hand.

Hybrid IT can be a sprawling, volatile, siloed 
place that jeopardises our customers’ ability 
to compete. With our solutions, our customers 
can master hybrid IT with new agility —
bridging traditional and transformational IT 
services from mainframe to mobile, from 
corporate to cloud. Embracing the future 
does not mean replacing the past.

Cyber threats are escalating. Aging 
applications and both existing and new 
processes are full of unforeseen risks. 
Privacy and compliance requirements are 
mounting and point solutions do not offer 
the scope, vision, or cross-silo analytics 
needed for these Company-wide 
challenges. With our solutions, our 
customers can take a holistic, analytics-
driven approach to securing what matters 
most — identities, applications, and data.

Lakes of data are valuable only if our 
customers can surface the insights 
hidden within their depths. With our 
solutions, they can leverage machine 
learning to transform unlimited volumes 
of data into accurate, actionable, 
automated insights — at the speed of 
your business. Now they are ready to 
make predictions and influence 
business outcomes.

Our product group
Micro Focus has five portfolios with over 
300 product lines, which each deliver 
unique value in areas our customers 
demand. Our product groups, as set out 
in the Portfolio Review section, include 
a combination of stand-alone products 
that address specific use cases and 
integrated suites to help our customers 
run and transform IT infrastructure. This 
approach means our customers are able 
to innovate faster with less risk.

5 product portfolios
>25 sub portfolios
>300 product lines

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

27

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Portfolio review

14% 13%

21%

21%

31%

Revenue breakdown for the 
12 months ended 31 October 2018

$528.8m

$792.7m

Our product groups
The Micro Focus Product Portfolio consists 
of five product groups as set out here. Our 
product groups are uniquely positioned to 
help customers maximise existing software 
investments and embrace innovation in a world 
of hybrid IT – from mainframe to mobile 
to cloud.

Application Modernisation 
& Connectivity (AMC)
Micro Focus’ Application Modernisation and 
Connectivity solutions help customers lower 
cost and improve speed and agility by 
modernising core business systems. With 
a combination of COBOL, Mainframe, Host 
Connectivity and CORBA software, this 
portfolio helps customers bridge the old and 
the new and future-proof investments made 
in technology, applications and processes 
over time.

Application Delivery Management 
(ADM)
Micro Focus’ Application Delivery 
Management solutions help our customers 
to accelerate their application delivery and 
ensure quality and security at every stage 
of the application lifecycle from the first 
backlog item, to the user experience in 
production. Micro Focus is the only vendor 
to provide an integrated end-to-end 
application lifecycle management solution 
that is built for any methodology, technology, 
and delivery model.

Case study:
Empire Life

Case study:
CONA services LLC

The challenge
Simplify support and maintenance 
environment, while achieving cost savings. 
Empire Life wanted to move towards 
DevOps and needed to be more responsive 
to growing business requirements.

Products and services
Micro Focus Enterprise Developer 
Micro Focus Enterprise Server

Results
• 30% development productivity increase.
• Annual cost savings of up to $1.15m.
• Ready to move to DevOps.
• Higher quality product and service.
• Increased team collaboration.

The challenge
Ensure SAP platform stability and 
uninterrupted service while deploying rapidly 
at a scale during Coca-Cola bottler 
refranchising effort.

Products and services
Performance Centre SaaS, Application 
Lifecycle Management, Professional 
services, Customer Success Manager.

Results
• Performance test SAP applications on 

shared-instance platform used by North 
America Coca-Cola bottlers to generate 
$21bn in annual revenue. 

• Scale users and loads without service 

interruption.

• Support uninterrupted daily operations of 

more than 80,000 bottler employees.

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Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

$1,149.4m $762.3m

Security
Micro Focus provides customers with a 
comprehensive set of cybersecurity solutions 
that protect data, secure applications and 
endpoints, manage identities and access, 
and provide continuous security motoring 
through an operations centre. Micro Focus 
Security solutions help customers secure 
what matters most – identities, applications 
and data.

IT Operations Management (ITOM)
Micro Focus’ IT Operations Management 
solutions allow teams to operate with agility 
to both run and transform their businesses. 
Providing customers with the capabilities to 
manage and accelerate the end-to-end 
service fulfilment lifecycle, enabling them to 
more efficiently assure and govern services 
and helping them shift to being an IT service 
provider that continually provides value and 
insights. Micro Focus’ ITOM portfolio has a 
broad range of offerings from enterprise 
service and network monitoring and 
management through to cloud-native and 
multi cloud management and migration 
supported by an integrated platform with 
a common data layer, analytics and 
orchestration (AIOps).

$485.9m

Information Management 
& Governance (IM&G)
Micro Focus’ Information Management 
& Governance solutions help customers 
access, understand and control data 
throughout its lifecycle to manage 
information-borne risk that can manifest 
itself in the form of fines, sanctions and 
legal matters. Primary solutions address 
compliance, governance and privacy 
requirements.

Case study:
Allianz Czech Republic

Case study:
Allegiant

Case study:
RTVE

The challenge
Allianz wanted to take a more transparent 
and collaborative approach to all its key 
DevOps processes by implementing a single 
management platform, replacing a home-
developed helpdesk system and separate 
tool for development processes. 

Products and services
Use Micro Focus SSM powered by SBM to 
create a single point of contact into IT and 
streamline both IT and business processes.

Results
• One unified platform for development 

and helpdesk requirements

• 30% increase in efficiency and productivity
• Improved helpdesk performance
• Increased insight and transparency + 

Improved collaboration between IT and 
business

The challenge
Protect credit card data and customer 
information while complying with the 
Payment Card Industry Data Security
Standard (PCI DSS).

The challenge
Significantly reduce TV production times 
by creating an easily searchable repository 
containing 50 years’ worth of archived 
content with over 20 million assets. 

Products and services
Voltage SecureData, Vottage SecureData 
Web, Secure Stateless Tokenisation.

Products and services
Micro Focus IDOL

Results
• Fast implementation led to enhanced 
revenues by redeploying development 
staff to revenue-generating projects 

• 100% of customer transactions 

now protected by Voltage SecureData

• No credit card details stored

Results
• Content searches and retrieval completed 

in seconds instead of hours or days 

• Support corporate digital transformation 

project. 

• Effective collaborative relationship with 

Micro Focus Professional Services.

• User-friendly search solution for producers 

and journalists.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

29

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Key Performance Indicators

The Company uses several key performance indicators (“KPIs”) internally to monitor the performance of the business against 
our strategy. The movements year on year have been explained in the preceding pages. The KPIs that are used with a brief 
description on how they are calculated and the results for the period are as follows:

Total shareholder returns

Description

Metrics

Performance

31 October 2018

30 April 2017

Compound Annual  
growth rate:

• Since IPO

• Over last five years

• Over last three years

20.2%

12.2%

3.7%

• Over last one year

(51.5%)

29.3%

42.7%

51.7%

73.3%

These ratios demonstrate the compound annual growth rate in 
shareholder returns assuming reinvestment of Return of Values, 
but not ordinary dividends. The periods covered are to 31 October 
2018 from the IPO in May 2005, over the last five years from 
31 October 2013, over the last three years from 31 October 
2015 and over the last year from 31 October 2017. We continue 
to believe that with flat to low single digit revenue decline, our 
industry leading margins and strong cash conversion we are able 
to deliver shareholder returns of 15% to 20% per annum over 
the long-term. 

Financial performance
Our financial performance KPIs helped us to monitor our progress towards our 2018 revenue and Adjusted EBITDA growth targets. 

Description

Metrics

Performance

12 months ended
31 October 2018

Restated1
12 months ended
30 April 2017

Pro-forma constant 
currency revenue decline 

(4.0%)

Adjusted EBITDA  
margin1

37.7%

(0.9%)

46.4%

Cash conversion1

105.6%

103.9%

Revenue comprises total revenues compared with the prior 
12 months at pro-forma constant currency (“CCY”).

Adjusted EBITDA is the EBITDA prior to exceptional items, 
share-based compensation charge, amortisation of and impairment 
of product development costs, foreign currency gains/losses and 
the net capitalisation of product development costs. 

The Adjusted EBITDA margin represents Adjusted EBITDA 
divided by the Pro-forma Revenue for the period. 

This ratio is calculated using the cash flows generated from 
operations divided by Adjusted EBITDA less exceptional items – 
the result indicates that the Group is generating cash from its 
on-going business which can be used to reinvest in the 
development of the business including financing acquisitions, 
funding liabilities and paying dividends to shareholders.

1  The comparatives for the 12 months ended 30 April 2017 have been restated, where indicated, to reflect the divestiture of the SUSE business segment (note 19).

30

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial performance continued

Description

Metrics

Performance

12 months ended
31 October 2018

Restated1
12 months ended
30 April 2017

Free cash flow

$755.4m

$409.2m

DSO (days sales 
outstanding)

94 days

46 days

Diluted Adjusted EPS 
(total)

205.65 cents

175.65 cents

Free cash flow is defined as cash generated from operations less 
interest payments, bank loan costs, tax payments, payments for 
intangible assets and payments for property, plant and equipment.

Days Sales Outstanding (“DSO”) is the average number of days 
that customers take to pay their bill. The Group uses the count 
back method based on the amount the Group has billed 
customers. The count back calculation starts by taking the total 
outstanding gross receivables balance (i.e. before bad debt 
provisions), then deducting the latest month’s total billings from 
the outstanding gross receivables. If there is a remaining gross 
receivables balance outstanding after deducting the latest 
month’s billings, then the calculation deducts the total billings 
from the previous month, then the month before that and so on, 
until no outstanding balance remains. The DSO value is the total 
number of days’ billings that can be absorbed into the outstanding 
gross receivables balance without leaving a remainder.

Diluted Adjusted EPS is calculated by taking profit after tax, 
prior to exceptional items, share-based compensation charge, 
amortisation of purchased intangibles and tax attributable to 
these charges divided by the weighted average number of fully 
diluted ordinary shares in issue during the period. This measure 
indicates the ability of the Company to continue to adopt a 
progressive dividend policy.

Financial strength and capital discipline
Our financial strength and capital discipline KPIs are used to monitor our gearing and interest cover levels. Our target Net Debt to 
Pro-forma Adjusted EBITDA ratio is 2.7 times.

Description

Metrics

Performance

12 months ended
31 October 2018

Restated1
12 months ended
30 April 2017

Net Debt to Pro-forma 
Adjusted EBITDA

2.8 times

2.1 times

Interest cover1

5.1 times

5.6 times

Net borrowings less cash and cash equivalents and finance 
lease obligations expressed as a multiple of the Pro-forma 
Adjusted EBITDA.

Adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations, expressed as 
a multiple of finance costs.

1  The comparatives for the 12 months ended 30 April 2017 have been restated, where indicated, to reflect the divestiture of the SUSE business segment (note 19). 

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

31

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Principal risks and uncertainties

Risk Management overview
Our business model, future performance, 
solvency, liquidity and reputation are 
exposed to a variety of risks and 
uncertainties. The board’s role is to 
determine the principal risks the Group 
is willing to take to achieve its long-term 
strategic objectives and enhance the 
sustainability of value creation. 
Underpinning the operation of, and 
central to, the risk management process 
is the culture of the Group, led by the 
board, of openness, transparency, 
debate, trust and accountability. On 
behalf of the board, the Audit Committee 
reviews and challenges the effectiveness 
and robustness of the risk management 
process.

Risk Management process
The board manages risk in accordance 
with the enterprise Risk Management 
Framework (“RMF”) under the Group’s 
Risk Management Policy and Procedure. 
The RMF is aligned to the business 
objectives and strategy (see page 14). A 
key component of the RMF for the board 
is that, whilst the RMF enables an 

assessment of risk, it is also practical 
and proportionate. This ensures that the 
RMF is able to be embedded into the 
day-to-day business processes across 
the Group, to drive risk awareness and 
risk culture. The board continues to build 
upon the RMF to respond to any future 
change in the Group’s risk profile. During 
the period, the board continued to 
assess the gross and net risks against 
the defined risk appetite statements of 
the Group and to further align the risks 
to the Group’s strategy. The risk appetite 
statements set out the board’s risk-
taking approach to ensure a balanced 
view between risk aversion, opportunity 
and gains, against a background of 
maintaining reputation, financial stability 
and compliance. 

The Group maintains a risk based annual 
internal audit plan (see pages 85 to 87 
for the report on internal controls). 
During the period, the Group underwent 
a significant transformational change 
with the acquisition of the HPE Software 
business on 1 September 2017 and 
announced the sale of the SUSE 

business on 2 July 2018 as set out on 
page 12. As the risks assessed under 
the RMF changed during the period, the 
annual internal audit plan was flexed to 
ensure appropriate levels of assurance. 
The Group risk register is reviewed with 
internal audit during the development 
of the annual internal audit plan, and 
subsequently at each update of the 
Group risk register throughout the 
period, to ensure alignment of the 
internal audit plan to the Group’s risk 
profile. To underpin the robustness of the 
operation of the RMF, as part of the risk 
based internal audit process, the internal 
auditors assess the gross and net risk 
ranking assigned by the risk owners. 

The RMF is also subject to an annual 
review by an external specialist and 
shared with the internal audit team. A 
key area of focus for improving the RMF 
in the forthcoming year is to continue to 
embed the RMF across the Group. The 
enterprise risk management reporting 
cycle and alignment with internal audit 
and the wider business is as follows: 

Internal Audit

–  Obtain final copies of 

risk register

–  Risk based IA plan 

reviewed and any revisions 
to the plan are submitted 
for AC approval

–  Update IA plan. IA 

remediation continuously 
monitored and tracked 
and reported to IRM

6. Risk Oversight 
and Monitoring 
AC and board take 
accountability for 
oversight of risk 
environment

1. Policy Guidance
A Policy, Procedure 
and Framework 
document the ERM 
process and 
accountabilities.

5. Final Report
Report Risks to 
Audit Committee, 
Internal Audit

Enterprise Risk 
Management (ERM) 
Reporting Cycle

2. Risk Updates
Meet with individuals 
across Senior 
Management 
review and update 
Group Risk 
Register (GRR)

4. Finalise
Proposed GRR and 
analysis of key themes/ 
changes reviewed with 
executive directors

3. Risk Consolidation
Assessment 
and consolidation 
of risks across 
business into GRR

Risk Reviews

–  Ongoing alert from the 
business or other areas 
of Assurance across the 
Group, which require IRM 
review and analysis

–  IRM reviews and 

monitors any business 
related changes to 
understand impact from 
a risk lens (i.e. changes to 
processes, transformation 
programmes, etc)

–  Follow-up with Risk 

Register owners to finalise 
periodic review of GRR

32

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Risks are identified, assessed and 
recorded by the Micro Focus and SUSE 
Product Portfolios and the Group 
functions. Each business area director 
and Group function head is responsible 
for the identification, assessment and 
management of risk in their area. Each 
risk is owned by an individual in that area. 
The process includes the use of risk 
registers and one to one interviews with 
business area directors, Group function 
heads and board members. Risks are 
assessed on a gross and net basis 
against a consistent set of criteria 
defined by the board. The criteria 
measures the likelihood of occurrence 
against the potential impact to the Group 
including financial results, strategic 
plans, operations and reputation. Each 
risk is allocated a risk appetite category 
and a risk tolerance; changes in the risk 
profile are tracked at each reporting 
point during the period. The assessment 
includes current and emerging risks. 
Principal risks are categorised into four 
distinct areas, both externally and 
internally driven, which include financial, 
infrastructure, marketplace, and 
reputational risks. Existing controls and 
improvement actions are recorded on the 
risk register for each risk, together with 
internal audit reviews.

The RMF sets out a continuous cycle 
of review, reporting and improvement 
over the period. Following one to one 
interviews with the business area 
directors and Group function heads, the 
individual risk registers are consolidated 
to form the Group risk profile. The Group 
risk profile is reported to the executive 
directors for monitoring, review and 
challenge. A report is made to every 
Audit Committee meeting during the 
period for review, to challenge the 
effectiveness of the RMF and then 
approval by the board. As part of the 
RMF an annual review of risk is also 
undertaken, this is aligned with the 
annual review of internal audit. These 
annual reviews focus on areas for 
improvement in the process, as well as 
the key emerging areas of risk for the 
Group in the year ahead. The board and 

the Audit Committee also received 
detailed risk assessments as part of 
reports on material projects across 
the Group. 

In the period, we continued to work to 
improve the way we manage risk and, 
embed risk methodology into the 
business at management level. Metrics 
over risks (i.e. trend analysis) are 
performed periodically. We reviewed and 
improved our Fraud Risk Management 
policy and procedures including a revised 
anti-fraud policy as part of our integrated 
Code of Conduct across the Group. 

Changes in the period
The risk movement reflects the key 
activities and challenges across the 
period. In particular the transformational 
HPE Software business acquisition and 
integration, and the preparation for the 
divestment of the SUSE business. The 
board is mindful of the interdependencies 
and speed of some risks. As set out on 
pages 18 to 19 the HPE Software 
business integration is significantly 
complex. In the period, there has been 
an improvement in integration related 
risks, with detailed action plans being 
executed to improve the quality of 
delivery, speed of decision-making and 
accountability. The divestment of SUSE 
also represents a complex process. The 
governance framework for management 
of these programmes includes full time 
dedicated programme management 
offices that work together to mitigate 
key areas of principal risks. Details of the 
complexity and challenges, in particular 
in relation to IT systems, of the 
integration and divestment are set out 
in the Chief Executive’s Strategic review 
on page 20. 

Although there continues to be 
significant uncertainty with Brexit 
implications, our cross-functional Brexit 
Working Group continued to monitor 
developments, as far as possible, for 
impacts to our business. Areas under 
review for possible impacts include 
people, tax, treasury, regulatory and 
commercial matters. The readiness work 
and analysis aims to provide confidence 

to our people, suppliers and customers 
of our Brexit readiness. 

We have included a separate principal 
risk relating to cyber security. Cyber 
threats pose a risk to our entire industry. 
Work continues to further strengthen our 
resilience in this area and to further 
develop our cyber defence capabilities.

We have included a narrative relating 
to risks around internal controls over 
financial reporting. As part of its 
disclosure obligations in the United 
States the Group is required to furnish 
an annual report by its management 
on its internal controls over financial 
reporting and include an attestation 
report issued by its independent 
registered public accounting firm 
pursuant to Section 404 of the 
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (SOX). 
The first report will be required to be 
produced as of 31 October 2019.

Please also refer to the section on 
internal controls within the corporate 
governance report on pages 72 to 79.

Principal Risks and Uncertainties
In common with all businesses, the 
Group could be affected by risks and 
uncertainties that may have a material 
adverse effect on its business operations 
and achieving its strategic objectives 
including its business model, future 
performance, solvency, liquidity and/or 
reputation. These risks could cause 
actual results to differ materially from 
forecasts or historic results. Accepting 
that risk is an inherent part of doing 
business, the board is mindful of the 
interdependencies of some risks. Where 
possible, the Group seeks to mitigate 
risks through its RMF, internal controls 
and insurance, but this can only provide 
reasonable assurance and not absolute 
assurance against material losses. In 
particular, insurance policies may not fully 
cover all of the consequences of any 
event, including damage to persons or 
property, business interruptions, failure of 
counterparties to conform to the terms 
of an agreement or other liabilities. 

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

33

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Principal risks and uncertainties Continued
Principal risks and uncertainties Continued

The following are the principal risks and uncertainties, potential impacts and mitigations that are relevant to the Group as a provider 
of software products and associated services at this time. They do not comprise all of the risks associated with the Group and 
are not set out in priority order. Additional risks not presently known to management, or currently deemed to be less material, 
may also have an adverse effect on the Group. 

The net risk movement from the prior period for each principal risk has been assessed and presented as follows:

No change

Increased net risk exposure

Reduced net risk exposure

Products

Risk Trend

Link to: Business Model: Make software

Risk Category: Marketplace

Principal Risk Description 
To remain successful the Group must ensure that its products continue to meet the requirements of customers and must be effectively balanced 
between growth and legacy products. Investment in research and innovation in product development is essential to meet customer and partner 
requirements in order to maximise revenues and corporate performance. The Group has a large number of products, at differing stages of their life-
cycle. The extent of investment in each product set needs to be managed and prioritised considering the expected future prospects, to ensure an 
effective balance between growth and legacy products. The Group’s business and reputation may be harmed by errors or defects in its products.

Potential impact

Mitigation

If products do not meet the requirements of 
customers, they will seek alternative solutions, 
resulting in the loss of new revenue 
opportunities and the cancellation of existing 
contracts. Insufficient focus on key research 
and development projects may damage the 
long-term growth prospects of the Group.

When considering investment priorities, both organic and inorganic, the Group evaluates its options 
against a set of characteristics mapped to each stage of the product life-cycle enabling the 
categorisation of its product portfolio into the following: new models, growth drivers, optimise and core 
(further details are set out on page 23 (Business Model section)). 

As set out on page 24 (Business Model section) the Group continues to align resources and develop 
propositions across four main focus areas: Enterprise DevOps; Hybrid IT Management; Security, Risk 
& Governance; and Predictive Analytics and to improve the interaction between Product Management, 
Product Development, Sales and Marketing. The Micro Focus product portfolio consists of five product 
groups with over 300 product lines, as set out on page 28 (Portfolio Review), which are uniquely 
positioned to help customers maximise existing software investments and embrace innovation. The 
Group has improved alignment and applied robust application of the four-box model across the Enlarged 
Group, as set out on page 23 (Business Model section). The product portfolio is focused on delivering 
“customer centric innovation” that delivers tangible business impact for customers in all stages of the 
software life-cycle.

34

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Go-To-Market (“GTM”) Models

Risk Trend

Link to Business Model: Sell software

Risk Category: Marketplace

Principal Risk Description 
For the Group to succeed in meeting revenue and growth targets it requires successful GTM models across the full product portfolio, with effective 
strategies and plans to exploit channel opportunities and focus the sales force on all types of customer categories. In addition, effective GTM 
models may be more successful if accompanied by compelling Micro Focus brand awareness programmes. The Group is dependent upon the 
effectiveness of its sales force and distribution channels to maintain and grow licence, maintenance and consultancy sales.

Potential impact

Mitigation

Poor design and/or execution of GTM plans 
may limit the success of the Group by targeting 
the wrong customers through the wrong 
channels and using the wrong product 
offerings.

As set out on page 19 of the Chief Executive’s Strategic Review, there has been good progress in the 
development of the Group’s customer and partner proposition. Across the five product categories that 
the Group reports against, the Group has great depth of capability and experience to help its customers 
address some of the most complex challenges they face. To best enable the Group’s customers to 
exploit this breadth and depth it is aligning resources and developing compelling propositions across 
four focus areas – Enterprise DevOps; Hybrid IT Management; Security, Risk & Governance; and 
Predictive Analytics.

Sales execution has received considerable attention and improvement measures have focused on the 
consistent execution of simpler, more effective sales processes, better alignment and accountability 
within the sales management teams through the removal of unnecessary global structures and 
management layers, organisational changes to align marketing and product teams much more tightly 
and investments made to build a consistent approach to enablement globally. We have strengthened the 
team through the appointment of Jon Hunter as Chief Revenue Officer.

Competition

Risk Trend

Link to Business Model: Sell software

Risk Category: Marketplace

Principal Risk Description 
Comprehensive information about the markets in which Micro Focus and SUSE operate is required for the Group to assess competitive risks 
effectively and to perform successfully. The Group operates in a number of competitive markets and success in those markets depends on a 
variety of factors.

Potential impact

Mitigation

Failure to understand the competitive 
landscape adequately and thereby identify 
where competitive threats exist may damage 
the successful sales of the Group’s products. If 
the Group is not be able to compete effectively 
against its competitors, it is likely to lose market 
share which may result in decreased sales and 
weaker financial performance.

Group product plans contain an analysis of competitive threats and subscriptions to industry analyst 
firms are leveraged to better understand market dynamics and competitor strategies. In addition, 
customer contact programmes are analysed for competitive intelligence. Micro Focus and SUSE 
continue to monitor and review intelligence on market threats to focus on offering best in class service 
to customers.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

35

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Principal risks and uncertainties Continued

Employees and Culture

Risk Trend 

Link to Business Model: Make, Sell,  
Support software

Risk Category: Infrastructure 

Principal Risk Description 
The retention and recruitment of highly skilled and motivated employees, at all levels of the Group, is critical to the success and future growth of the 
Group in all countries in which it operates. Employees require clear business objectives, and a well-communicated vision and values, for the Group 
to achieve alignment and a common sense of corporate purpose among the workforce.

Potential impa ct

Mitigation

Failure to retain and develop skill sets, 
particularly in sales, IT and research and 
development may hinder the Group’s sales and 
development plans. Weak organisational 
alignment and inadequate incentivisation may 
lead to poor performance and instability. It 
could also have an adverse impact on the 
realisation of strategic plans.

Successful cultural alignment across the Group is intrinsic to the way we do business and is a key focus 
for the Group. Leading by example from the top is a key driver. The Group has policies in place to help 
ensure that it is able to attract and retain employees of a high calibre with the required skills. These 
policies include training, career development and long-term financial incentives. The Group also has in 
place a performance management and appraisal system. Succession plans have been developed and 
are in place for key leadership positions within the Company. During the period a new Chief Human 
Resources Officer was appointed. In the period the Group also took significant action to develop its 
management capability both internally, by training and promotions, and through external hires. 

Tax

Risk Trend

Link to Business Model: Support software

Risk Category: Financial

Principal Risk Description 
The tax treatment of the Group’s operations is subject to the risk of challenge by tax authorities in all territories in which it operates. Cross-border 
transactions may be challenged under tax rules and initiatives targeting multinationals’ tax arrangements, including the OECD’s Base Erosion and 
Profit Shifting project and EU state aid rules. As a result of the HPE Software business acquisition, the Group may be required under the tax 
matters agreement entered into with HPE (the “TMA”) to indemnify HPE, if actions undertaken by the Group affect the tax treatment of the 
separation of HPE Software business from HPE. 

Future changes to US and non-US tax laws could adversely affect the Group. The Group will be subject to tax laws of numerous jurisdictions, 
and the interpretation of those laws is subject to challenge by the relevant governmental authorities.

Potential impact

Mitigation

Tax liabilities in various territories in which the 
Group operates, particularly as a result of the 
HPE Software business acquisition, could be 
significantly higher than expected. The Group 
may be obliged to make indemnification 
payments to HPE under the TMA, which, 
if payable, would likely be substantial.

Tax laws, regulations and interpretations are kept under on-going review by the Group and its advisors. 
The Group reviews its operations, including the structuring of intra-Group arrangements, on a periodic 
basis to ensure that all relevant laws are complied with and that risks are identified and mitigated 
appropriately. External professional advice is obtained ahead of material structuring activity and to 
support positions taken in financial statements and local tax returns where there is significant 
uncertainty or risk of challenge. During the period, a governance framework and process has been 
developed to remind relevant employees of the requirements and guiding principles to comply with the 
obligations under the TMA.

36

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Business Strategy and Change Management

Risk Trend 

Link to Business Model: Make, Sell,  
Support software

Risk Category: Marketplace 

Principal Risk Description 
The Group is engaged in a number of major change projects including acquisitions and divestments to shape and grow the business by 
strengthening the portfolio of products and capabilities and IT projects to standardise systems and processes. The successful integration of 
businesses will build a solid base for further expansion. These projects expose the Group to significant transformation risks. The Group’s strategy 
may involve the making of further acquisitions to protect or enhance its competitive position and failure to identify, manage, complete and integrate 
acquisitions, divestitures and other significant transactions successfully could have a material adverse effect on the Group’s business. 

The integration of the HPE Software business and the divestment of SUSE are both complex transactions with a range of integration and 
separation risks. The integration of the HPE Software business with the existing businesses carried on by the Group may be more time consuming 
and costly than anticipated. Successful execution of the SUSE divestment may be compromised by adding a new level of complexity to an existing 
heightened operation environment across the Group and be a distraction to deliver business plans.

Potential impact

Mitigation

Failure to analyse, execute and co-ordinate 
the various integration, divestment and 
transformation programmes successfully may 
result in the disruption of the on-going business 
without delivering the anticipated strategic and 
operational benefits of such transactions. In 
addition, this may affect the ability to execute 
strategic plans for growth. 

As set out on page 15. The Group has an established acquisition strategy and focus on efficient 
execution in the mature infrastructure software market. The delivery and execution of the HPE Software 
business integration and the SUSE divestment is controlled and mitigated by respective dedicated 
full-time programme offices. During the period there have been enhancements made to programme 
governance. The operating plan is focused on delivering targeted, relevant business outcomes and the 
simplification of business operations to improve empowerment, speed and accountability of decision-
making and drive a heightened sense of urgency across all aspects of execution. Programme risks and 
interdependencies are managed carefully including the utilisation of detailed deep dives, cross functional 
integration/divestment walk the walls sessions, a cadence of weekly and daily cross functional calls and 
risk assessments to ensure that execution of the various projects are successfully aligned to minimise 
any disruption to business as usual. The integration and harmonisation will continue as a key area of 
principal risk in the forthcoming year. 

Intellectual Property (“IP”)

Risk Trend

Link to Business Model: Make software

Risk Category: Marketplace

Principal Risk Description 
The Group is dependent upon its intellectual property, and its rights to such intellectual property may be challenged or infringed by others or 
otherwise prove insufficient to protect its business. Some of the Group’s SUSE products utilise Open Source technology, which is dependent upon 
third party developers. The Group’s products and services depend in part on intellectual property and technology licenced from third parties, and 
third-party claims of intellectual property infringement against the Group may disrupt its ability to sell its products and services.

Potential impact

Mitigation

Failure could adversely affect the ability of 
the Group to compete in the market place and 
affect the Group’s revenue and reputation.

There are procedures in place across the Group to ensure the appropriate protection and use of the 
Group’s brands and IP and these are monitored by the IP Panel and Legal team. During the period, the 
IP Panel and Group IP procedures were updated and extended across the Enlarged Group.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

37

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Principal risks and uncertainties Continued

Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Risk Trend

Link to Business Model: Support software

Risk Category: Reputational

Principal Risk Description 
The Group operates across a number of jurisdictions and two regulated exchanges. Compliance with national and regional laws and regulations is 
essential to successful business operations. The Group may be involved in legal and other proceedings from time to time, and as a result may face 
damage to its reputation or legal liability. The Group has entered into various acquisitions and a disposal over recent years and may be subject to, 
or have the benefit of, certain residual representations, warranties, indemnities, covenants or other liabilities, obligations or rights. The Group has 
a variety of customer contracts in a variety of sectors, including Government clients.

Potential impact

Mitigation

Failure to comply could result in civil or criminal 
sanctions (i.e. personal liability for directors), as 
well as possible claims, legal proceedings, 
fines, loss of revenue and reputational damage.

The Group has in place policies and procedures to mitigate these risks. The Group’s legal and regulatory 
team, enhanced by specialist external advisors as required, monitor and review compliance. There is a 
Compliance Committee, which reports into the board. All staff are subject to mandatory compliance 
training. The Group is committed to ensuring ongoing compliance with anti-bribery and corruption, data 
protection and market abuse and insider dealing laws. A new, integrated Code of Conduct was rolled out 
in August 2018, with supporting training materials distributed to all employees during October 2018. 
Significant work was undertaken during the period to ensure compliance with the General Data 
Protection Regulation (“GDPR”). This included the approval of four new data protection policies by the 
board, GDPR Awareness training being circulated to all employees, and regular communications to 
employees is on-going regarding the importance of compliance with the requirements. Data protection 
compliance is subject to on-going monitoring by our privacy team. The compliance environment is also 
strengthened by the implementation of SOX controls, as set out on page 41.

Macro Economic Environment and Brexit

Risk Trend 

Link to Business Model: Sell,  
Support software

Risk Category: Marketplace 

Principal Risk Description 
The Group’s businesses may be subject to inherent risks arising from the general and sector specific economic and political conditions in one or 
more of the markets in which the Group operates. This is heightened by the fact the Group sells and distributes its software products globally. 
Exposure to political developments in the United Kingdom, including the terms and manner of the UK’s withdrawal from the EU, could have an 
adverse effect on the Group.

Potential impact

Mitigation

Adverse economic conditions could affect 
sales, and other external economic or political 
matters, such as price controls, could affect the 
business and revenues. 

The spread of jurisdictions allows the Group to be flexible to adapt to changing localised risk to a certain 
extent. The Group has business continuity plans and crisis management procedures in place in the 
event of political events or natural disasters.

The Group has a cross functional Brexit Working Group with processes in place to assess, respond, 
monitor and track the impact of Brexit on our businesses, and associated risks, as matters progress and 
how the business can seek to mitigate these risks. Areas under review for possible impacts include 
people, tax, treasury, regulatory and commercial matters.

38

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

IT Systems and Information

Risk Trend

Link to Business Model: Support software

Risk Category: Infrastructure

Principal Risk Description 
The Group’s operations, as with most businesses, are dependent on maintaining and protecting the integrity and security of the IT systems 
and management of information. Integration of HPE Software business with the existing businesses, including the respective IT systems, may be 
more time consuming and costly than anticipated, given the amount of change management that is involved. The Group continues to operate on 
two IT architectures with the attendant complexity to business operations and the control environment.

Potential impact

Mitigation

Disruption to the IT systems could adversely 
affect business and Group operations in a 
variety of ways, which may result in an adverse 
impact on business operations, revenues, 
customer relations, supplier relations, and 
reputational damage. Dependency on IT 
providers could have an adverse impact on 
revenue and compliance in the event that they 
cannot resume business operations.

The Group continues to focus its efforts on the stabilisation of the HPE Software business 
infrastructure. Progress has been made with the system now being stable and able to support the 
business. To maintain the required control environment the Group relies upon automated, semi-
automated and manual controls together with a combination of preventative and detective controls. A 
Vendor Management process is in place to allow for better involvement and engagement with third party 
IT providers. In relation to the SUSE divestment a dedicated IT Program Director is in place to lead the 
SUSE IT separation and execution, working under the Divestment Programme Management office.

There is an on-going programme of simplification being delivered, with a parallel project approved by the 
board and now underway to build the future, simplified systems architecture for the Group (as set out in 
the Chief Executive’s Strategic Review set out on page 20). The IT control environment is also being 
improved as part of the implementation of controls to meet Sarbanes-Oxley Act 2002 (SOX) 
compliance, as set out on page 41.

Cyber Security (previously part of IT systems and information)

Risk Trend: 

Link to Business Model: Support software

Risk Category: Infrastructure

Principal Risk Description 
Risk of hacking or other cybersecurity threat leading to data loss and/or disruptions to business. The IT environments of both the Group and its 
customers may be subject to hacking or other cybersecurity threats, which may harm customer relationships, financial performance and the market 
perception of the effectiveness of the Group’s products.

Potential impact

Mitigation

Data loss, which could harm client and 
customer relationships, compliance and/or 
perception of the effectiveness of the 
Group’s products.

The Group works continually to counter the risk posed by the current and emerging cyber security 
threat landscape. The cyber team manages the security of our data, technology and training 
programme to protect the performance and availability of the Group IT systems. Group-wide cyber 
readiness policies and processes are in place. Cyber security testing in critical areas of the business 
is on-going, Group-specific vulnerabilities are reviewed and continuously managed.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

39

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Principal risks and uncertainties Continued

Treasury

Risk Trend

Link to Business Model: Support software

Risk Category: Financial

Principal Risk Description 
The Group operates across a number of jurisdictions and so is exposed to currency fluctuations. The risk of foreign exchange fluctuations may be 
increased as a result of Brexit.

The Group targets a Net Debt to Adjusted EBITDA ratio of 2.7 times and may require additional debt funding in order to execute its acquisition 
strategy. The Group is exposed to interest rate risk related to its variable rate indebtedness, which could cause its indebtedness service obligations 
to increase significantly.

The Group’s operational and financial flexibility may be restricted by its level of indebtedness and covenants and financing costs could increase or 
financing could cease to be available in the long term. The Group may incur materially significant costs if it breaches its covenants under its 
banking arrangements.

Potential impact

Mitigation

The relative values of currencies can fluctuate 
and may have a significant impact on business 
results.

Insufficient access to funding could limit the 
Group’s ability to achieve its desired capital 
structure or to complete acquisitions.

An increase in interest rates could have a 
significant impact on business results.

The Group’s operations are diversified across a number of currencies, with limited exposure to 
£ Sterling. Key currency exposures are detailed on page 144. Changes in foreign exchange rates are 
monitored, exposures regularly reviewed and actions taken to reduce exposures where necessary. 
The Group provides extensive constant currency reporting to enable investors to better understand 
the underlying business performance.

The Group has significant committed facilities in place, the earliest of which matures in November 
2021 and sufficient headroom to meet its operational requirements. The Group seeks to maintain 
strong relationships with its key banking partners and lenders and to proactively monitor the loan 
markets. The Group also has strong engagement with the providers of equity capital, which represents 
an alternative source of capital. Currency change fluctuations as a result of Brexit are being monitored 
by the Brexit Working Group.

The Group holds interest rate swaps to hedge against the cash flow risk in the LIBOR rate charged on 
$2,250.0m of the debt issued by a Group subsidiary company, Seattle Spinco, Inc. from 19 October 
2017 to 30 September 2022. Under the terms of the interest rate swaps, the Group pays a fixed rate 
of 1.94% and receives one month USD LIBOR.

Monitoring policies and procedures are in place to reduce the risk of any covenant breaches under the 
Group’s banking arrangements. At 31 October 2018, $nil of the Revolving Facility was drawn. As a 
covenant test is only applicable when the Revolving Facility is drawn down by 35% or more, and $nil of 
Revolving Facility was drawn at 31 October 2018, no covenant test is applicable.

40

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Risks related to Internal Controls 
over Financial Reporting 
As part of its disclosure and reporting 
obligations in the United States, the 
Group will be required to furnish an 
annual report by its management on its 
internal control over financial reporting 
and include an attestation report issued 
by its independent registered public 
accounting firm pursuant to Section 404 
of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 
(“SOX”). The first report will be required 
to be produced as of 31 October 2019. 

The Group is in the process of 
implementing a programme of SOX 
compliant internal controls under its SOX 
Implementation Programme (SIP) 
together with a specialist team from its 
outsourced Internal Audit Partner, PwC. 
Governance for the SIP includes a cross 
functional SOX Steering Group (SSG) 
chaired by the Group’s Chief Financial 
Officer reporting to the Audit Committee. 
As part of the SIP a new Disclosure 
Committee, chaired by the Chief 
Financial Officer, has been set up to 
assist the Chief Executive Officer and 
Chief Financial Officer in fulfilling their 
responsibilities in connection with the 
accuracy of financial reporting. The SIP 
is being implemented across the Group 
during a period of significant change 
across the organisation. As part of the 
governance the SSG monitors potential 
adverse impacts of organisational 
change to the SIP. During the period, as 
part of the SIP, end to end process 
mapping and walkthroughs were carried 
out of the Group’s main processes, Hire 
to Retire, Quote to Cash, Procurement to 
Pay and Record to Report, leading to the 
development of documented controls for 
each process. Each process and its 
associated controls are owned by a 
Global Process Owner. In the period, the 
Group has also reviewed its entity 
level controls and commenced 
implementation of a SOX training plan 

across relevant parts of the Group. A key 
work stream of the SIP relates to the 
adequacy of IT General Controls (ITGCs). 
The challenges with the IT systems, 
including controls acquired with the 
HPE Software business, are set out on 
page 20. As a consequence, each 
business will remain on its legacy IT 
systems, necessitating business process 
controls and ITGCs across both systems. 
The work undertaken under the SIP to 
date has identified a number of areas for 
improvement in the Group’s ITGCs, which 
now forms part of the SIP. Work in this 
area is continuing under an IT SOX 
Compliance Group chaired by the Chief 
Information Officer reporting to the main 
SSG. As part of this work, an IT strategy 
has been developed and is being 
implemented across the network in both 
the Group’s owned IT systems and those 
operated by its external cloud partner.

As a requirement for the Group’s listing 
in the United States, its internal controls 
over financial reporting were for the first 
time subject to review under the US 
Public Company Accounting Oversight 
Board (PCAOB) auditing standards in 
connection with the audit of Micro Focus’ 
annual consolidated financial statements 
for the three years ended 30 April 2017. 
As a result of the work undertaken, 
certain weaknesses in the Group’s 
internal control over financial reporting 
were identified, which under PCAOB 
standards were considered to be 
material weaknesses. Under the PCAOB 
standards a material weakness is a 
deficiency, or a combination of 
deficiencies, in internal control over 
financial reporting, such that there is a 
reasonable possibility that a material 
misstatement of the Group’s annual or 
interim consolidated financial statements 
will not be prevented or detected on a 
timely basis. The material weaknesses 
related to the fact that the Group did not 
have sufficient formally documented and 

implemented processes and review 
procedures, nor did it have sufficient 
formality and evidence of controls over 
key reports and spreadsheets. Whilst the 
Group has made significant progress 
towards remediating the material 
weaknesses in the heritage Micro Focus 
systems and processes, the significant 
challenges with the IT systems acquired 
with the HPE Software business means 
that these material weaknesses and 
other control deficiencies are also 
relevant for this area of the organisation. 
The remediation activity includes system 
upgrades and formal documentation of 
control and review procedures.

The Group continues its work under 
the SIP to remediate the material 
weaknesses and other control 
deficiencies, and any other matters, 
which arise during its progress towards 
SOX compliance. To maintain the 
required control environment the Group 
relies upon automated, semi-automated 
and manual controls together with a 
combination of preventative and detective 
controls. The material weaknesses, 
control deficiencies and other matters 
may not be able to be remedied by 
31 October 2019, and there is a risk that 
other deficiencies for the purposes of 
SOX may be identified. Failure to correct 
the material weaknesses or our failure to 
discover and address any other material 
weakness or control deficiencies could 
result in inaccuracies in our financial 
statements and impair our ability to 
comply with applicable financial reporting 
requirements and related regulatory 
filings on a timely basis. It could also 
result in an adverse reaction in the 
financial markets due to a loss of 
confidence in the reliability of the 
Group’s financial statements and could 
have a material adverse effect on the 
Group’s business, financial condition, 
results of operation and prospects.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

41

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Chief Financial Officer’s report

“The Group has 
undertaken two 
material corporate 
development 
activities within 
the 18 month 
reporting period.”

Chris Kennedy
Chief Financial Officer
20 February 2019

42

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

The Group’s statutory financial statements reflect the trading performance of the continuing operations for the 18 months ended 
31 October 2018 compared to the 12 months ended 30 April 2017. Within the 18 months, the Group has undertaken two 
corporate development activities, which have both had a material impact on the Group’s reported results:

• On 1 September 2017, the Group acquired the software business of HPE, which is reported within the Micro Focus Product 

Portfolio. The Group aligned the Micro Focus accounting period end (previously 30 April) to the HPE Software business period 
end of 31 October resulting in an 18 month accounting period to 31 October 2018 for the combined entity.

• On 21 August 2018, shareholders voted to approve the proposed transaction whereby the Group agreed to sell its SUSE 

Product Portfolio. Following the approval, the SUSE operating segment meets the definition of a discontinued operation under 
IFRS 5, which results in the SUSE performance being excluded from the individual line items of the income statement and 
balance sheet. SUSE is instead included as a single line entitled “profits from discontinued operations” within the income 
statement and as an “asset held for sale” or “liability held for sale” on the balance sheet. The transaction is expected to 
complete in the first quarter of calendar year 2019 and SUSE remains under the control of the Group until that point. 

Due to the significant size of the two transactions, the directors feel that the Group results are better understood by considering 
the comparative results on a pro-forma basis. The table below sets out the impact the transactions have had on the Group’s 
financial statements and the additional disclosures which the directors have elected to make in order to improve the 
understanding of the financial statements:

HPE Software

SUSE 

Purpose

Statutory results

Alternative Performance Measures

18 months ended 
31 October 2018 
(audited)
14 months post 
acquisition 

Excluded from 
continuing 
operations

12 months ended 
30 April 2017 
(audited)
Excluded 

Restated and 
excluded from 
continuing 
operations 

Statutory 
reporting

12 months ended 
31 October 2018 
(unaudited)
Included 

Pro-forma 
12 months ended 
31 October 2018 
(unaudited)
Included 

Pro-forma 
12 months ended 
31 October 2017 
(unaudited)
Included 

Excluded from 
continuing 
operations

Annualised 
performance of 
continuing 
operations

Included 

Included 

Year-on-year 
performance on a 
like-for-like basis

All narrative within this report focuses on the continuing operations unless otherwise stated. 

This section refers to a number of Alternative Performance Measures, which are used by the business to supplement those 
presented under statutory requirements. For further details relating to the definition and relevance of such measures, please 
refer to the Alternative Performance Measures section of these financial statements. 

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

43

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Chief Financial Officer’s report Continued

Micro Focus International – Statutory Results 

The Group has adopted an 18 month accounting period, which ended on 31 October 2018. As a result, the comparison to the 
previously reported 12 months ended 30 April 2017 presents substantial period-on-period increases due to the longer period of 
account in the current reporting period. In order to aid comparison, this section also sets out the unaudited financial performance 
in the 12 months ended 31 October 2018.

The statutory presentation excludes the discontinued SUSE business from individual line items for each of the reporting periods 
presented below. The 18 month period to 31 October 2018 includes 14 months of results for the acquired HPE Software 
business. The results for the 12 months to 31 October 2018 includes a full year’s results for the HPE Software business.

• The previous 18 months has been a transformational period for the business.

• The HPE Software business transaction, SUSE disposal and change in accounting period have added a level of 

complexity to the financial statements.

• The continuing business of the Group generated revenues of $4,754.4m in the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 

of which $3,684.3m relates to the last 12 months. 

• The Group generated a profit before tax of $34.1m in the 18 months ended 31 October 2018, and a loss of $78.5m 

within the last 12 months.

• On an annualised basis, the total dividend per share is 100.84 cents, which is growth of 14.5% on the full year 

dividend for the year ended 30 April 2017 of 88.06 cents. 

Continuing operations
Revenue

Operating profit (before exceptional items)
Exceptional items 

Operating profit 
Net finance costs
Exceptional finance costs

Profit/(loss) before tax
Taxation

Profit from continuing operations
Profit from discontinued operations

Profit for the period

18 months ended 
31 October 2018
(audited)
$m
4,754.4

12 months ended 
30 April 2017 
(audited)
$m
1,077.3

12 months ended 
31 October 2018
(unaudited)
$m
3,684.3

915.0
(538.2)

376.8
(336.9)
(5.8)

34.1
673.1

707.2
76.9

784.1

324.7
(97.3)

227.4
(95.8)
–

131.6
(7.5)

124.1
33.7

157.8

630.1
(439.7)

190.4
(268.9)
–

(78.5)
700.5

622.0
55.5

677.5

Revenue 
In the 18 months ended 31 October 2018, the Group generated revenue of $4,754.4m, which represents an increase of 
341.3% on the 12 months ended 30 April 2017. The increase in trading is driven by the acquisition of the HPE Software 
business, which has materially increased the scale of the operations combined with the longer period of account. 

In order to fully understand the underlying trading performance of the continuing operations, the Directors feel revenue is better 
considered on a pro-forma constant currency basis between the 12 months ended 31 October 2018 and the 12 months ended 
31 October 2017. Revenue performance presented on a pro-forma constant currency basis can be found later in this report. 

44

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Operating profit 
In the 18 months ended 31 October 2018, the Group generated operating profit of $376.8m, which represents an increase of 
65.7% on the 12 months ended 30 April 2017. On a statutory basis, the operating profit increased due to the 18 month accounting 
period combined with the impact of the HPE Software business transaction in the current period. The acquisition has been 
transformational for the business and has substantially increased the scale of the Group’s operations. In addition, exceptional 
costs (included within operating profit) have increased from $97.3m in the 12 months ended 30 April 2017 to $538.2m in the 
18 months ended 31 October 2018. Exceptional costs are considered below. 

In addition, the amortisation of intangible assets increased from $236.4m in the 12 months ended 30 April 2017 to $903.0m in 
the 18 months ended 31 October 2018, relating to the amortisation of customer relationships and technology acquired from HPE, 
combined with the impact of the 18 month period of account. 

Exceptional items (included within operating profit)

Exceptional items 
MF/HPE Software business integration related:
System and IT infrastructure costs 
Integration costs
Severance 
Property costs 

MF/HPE Software business integration related costs 
SUSE and other divestiture costs 
HPE Software business acquisition/pre-acquisition costs
Integration in respect of previous acquisitions
Other acquisition costs
Property costs relating to previous acquisitions 
Severance costs relating to previous acquisitions 

Total exceptional costs (reported in Operating profit)

18 months ended 
31 October 2018
(audited)
$m

12 months ended 
30 April 2017
(audited)
$m

12 months ended 
31 October 2018
(unaudited)
$m

114.4
147.6
129.1
29.9

421.0
21.3
70.1
17.0
–
8.2
0.6

538.2

–
–
–
–

–
–
58.0
27.7
2.6
5.5
3.5

97.3

114.4
143.7
119.9
29.9

407.9
21.3
1.3
0.8
–
8.4
–

439.7

In the 18 months ended 31 October 2018, exceptional costs totalled to $538.2m with $439.7m incurred in the 12 months 
ended 31 October 2018. Exceptional costs predominantly relate to the integration of the HPE Software business and the costs 
incurred in the 18 month period include:

• System and IT infrastructure costs of $114.4m principally reflect the cost of implementing and then stabilising the IT platform 

acquired with the HPE Software business (“FAST”); 

• Integration costs of $147.6m across a wide range of projects undertaken to conform, simplify and increase efficiency across 

the two businesses; 

• Severance costs of $129.1m in relation to ongoing headcount reductions as we integrate the HPE Software business; and 
• Property costs of $29.9m as the Group began the process of simplifying the real estate footprint by exiting 27 offices since 

the completion of the transaction. 

As communicated previously, we anticipate exceptional charges in relation to the HPE Software business integration of 
$960m of which $421.0m has been incurred to date. The remaining costs will be incurred over the next two financial years, 
with approximately $420m expected to be charged to the income statement in FY19 and the balance in FY20. 

In addition, as disclosed in July 2018, costs associated with the disposal of SUSE are expected to total in the region of $72m. 
In the 12 months ended 31 October 2018, the Group incurred $20.8m and the remainder are expected in the year ending 
31 October 2019.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

45

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Chief Financial Officer’s report Continued

Net finance costs 
Net finance costs were $336.9m in the 18 months ended 31 October 2018, of which $268.9m was incurred in the last 12 months. 
Finance costs predominantly relate to the associated interest on the new term loans put in place as part of the transaction to 
acquire the HPE Software business. Included within the $268.9m is $46.9m in relation to the amortisation of facility costs and 
original issue discounts which were paid on initiation of the term loans. 

In the period, the Group’s net debt leverage decreased, which means the Group now benefits from a 25 bps improvement in the 
margin on the Group’s debt terms. 

The Group hold interest rate swaps to hedge against the cash flow risk in the LIBOR rate charged on $2,250.0m of the debt 
issued by Seattle Spinco, Inc. (the investment company used to acquire the HPE Software business) from 19 October 2017 to 
30 September 2022. Under the terms of the interest rate swaps, the Group pays a fixed rate of 1.94% and receives one month 
USD LIBOR.

Taxation 
The Group’s reported tax charge for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 was a credit of $673.1m (12 months ended 
30 April 2017: charge of $7.5m) primarily due to the one-off impact of US tax reforms. 

Profit from discontinued operations 
Profit from discontinued operations reflect the profits generated from the SUSE portfolio. In the 18 months ended 31 October 
2018, SUSE generated revenue of $538.2m compared to $303.4m in the 12 months ended 30 April 2017. Profit before 
taxation increased to $111.1m from $64.8m. The period-on-period growth driven by the long period of account combined with 
growth in the SUSE business was approximately 15% per annum. 

In the 12 months ended 31 October 2018, SUSE generated revenue of $373.7m and profit after tax $55.5m. The SUSE 
disposal remains on track for completion in the first calendar quarter of 2019. 

Reconciliation from statutory results to Alternative Performance Measures

This section sets out a reconciliation from the statutory results presented above to Alternative Performance Measures used by 
the business to assess operating performance and liquidity including Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Profit before tax and Adjusted 
EPS. For further details relating to the definition and relevance of such measures, please refer to the Alternative Performance 
Measures section of these financial statements. The Group believes that these and similar measures are used widely by certain 
investors, securities analysts and other interested parties as supplemental measures of performance and liquidity.

Adjusted EBITDA 
A reconciliation between Operating profit and Adjusted EBITDA is shown below:

Operating profit 
Add back/(deduct):
Exceptional items (reported in Operating profit)
Share-based compensation charge
Amortisation of intangible assets
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment
Product development intangible costs capitalised
Foreign exchange gains

Continuing operations Adjusted EBITDA 
Discontinued operations Adjusted EBITDA

Adjusted EBITDA 

46

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

18 months ended 
31 October 2018 
(audited)
$m
376.8

12 months ended 
30 April 2017
(audited)
$m
227.4

12 months ended 
31 October 2018
(unaudited)
$m
190.4

538.2
64.3
903.0
88.6
(44.4)
(37.3)

1,889.2
170.4

2,059.6

97.3
31.5
206.8
9.7
(27.7)
(2.9)

542.1
98.8

640.9

439.7
47.5
720.0
73.6
(27.4)
(30.2)

1,413.6
116.0

1,529.6

In the 12 months ended 31 October 2018, the Group generated Adjusted EBITDA of $1,529.6m, with $1,413.6m generated by 
the continuing operations of the Group. The pro-forma Adjusted EBITDA of the Group in the 12 months ended 31 October 2017 
has been provided later in this section.

Adjusted Profit before tax
Adjusted Profit before tax is defined as profit before tax excluding the effects of share-based compensation, the amortisation 
of purchased intangible assets, and all exceptional items.

The following tables are reconciliations from profit before tax for the period to Adjusted Profit before tax:

Continuing operations
Profit before tax

Adjusting items:
Exceptional items
Share-based compensation charge
Amortisation of purchased intangibles

Adjusted Profit before tax

18 months ended 
31 October 2018
(audited) 
$m
34.1

12 months ended 
30 April 2017
(audited) 
$m
131.6

12 months ended 
31 October 2018
(unaudited) 
$m
(78.5)

543.9
64.3
830.3

1,438.5

1,472.6

97.3
31.5
183.3

312.1

443.7

439.7
47.5
661.6

1,148.8

1,070.3

Adjusted Effective Tax Rate 
The tax charge on Adjusted Profit before tax for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 was $346.9m (12 months ended 
30 April 2017: $83.5m), which represents an effective tax rate (“ETR”) on Adjusted Profit before tax (“Adjusted ETR”) of 23.6% 
(12 months ended 30 April 2017: 18.8%). The Group’s forecast for Adjusted ETR in the medium-term remains at 25%.

18 months ended 31 October 2018

12 months ended 30 April 2017

Effective tax rate 
(continuing operations)
Profit before tax
Taxation

Profit after tax

Actual
$m
34.1
673.1

707.2

Adjusting  

items
$m
1,438.5
(327.7)

Exceptional 
tax items
$m
–
(692.3)

Adjusted 
measures
$m
1,472.6
(346.9)

1,110.8

(692.3)

1,125.7

Effective tax rate

(1,973.9)%

23.6%

Actual
$m
131.6
(7.5)

124.1

5.7%

Adjusting  

items
$m
312.0
(76.0)

236.0

Adjusted 
measures
$m
443.6
(83.5)

360.1

18.8%

In computing Adjusted Profit before tax for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018, $1,438.5m of adjusting items have been 
added back (see Adjusted Profit before tax section above) and the associated tax is $327.7m. Exceptional tax items of 
$692.3m (2017: $nil) shown above relate to the impact of US tax reforms, comprised of a credit of $930.6m in respect of the 
re-measurement of deferred tax liabilities due to the reduction of the US federal tax rate from 35% to 21% and a transition tax 
charge of $238.3m payable over eight years.

The total cash tax paid in the period was $99.5m (12 months ended 30 April 2017: $24.6m) of which $59.9m related to the 
continuing operations (12 months ended 30 April 2017: refund of $6.8m). The Group’s cash tax paid is lower than the reported 
tax charge due to the utilisation of US tax attributes in the HPE Software Business and the timing of tax instalment payments.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

47

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Chief Financial Officer’s report Continued

Earnings per share and Adjusted Earnings per share
The table below sets out the Earnings per Share (“EPS”) on both a reported and adjusted basis. The Group is also required to 
present EPS for both the continuing and discontinued operations but note that SUSE is still under the ownership of Group until 
completion of the transaction (anticipated by the end of the first calendar quarter 2019) and as such, we focus on total EPS. 

Continuing operations
Discontinued operations

Total EPS 

Adjusted EPS
Continuing operations
Discontinued operations 

Adjusted EPS 

18 months ended  
31 October 2018

12 months ended  
30 April 2017

12 months ended  
31 October 2018

Basic 
Cents
181.91
19.79

Diluted 
Cents
176.92
19.25

201.70

196.17

Basic 
Cents
54.17
14.71

68.88

Diluted 
Cents
52.31
14.20

66.51

Basic 
Cents
143.01
12.76

Diluted 
Cents
138.94
12.39

155.77

151.33

289.57
29.36

318.93

281.63
28.56

310.19

157.11
24.80

181.91

151.70
23.95

175.65

192.99
18.67

211.66

187.51
18.14

205.65

The Adjusted EPS is defined as Basic EPS where the earnings attributable to ordinary shareholders are adjusted by adding 
back exceptional items, share-based compensation charge and the amortisation of purchased intangibles and the tax 
attributable to these charges. These are presented, as management believe they are important to understanding the impact the 
underlying trading performance has on the Group’s EPS.

In the 18 months ended 31 October 2018, the Group generated an Adjusted EPS of 318.93 cents of which 211.66 cents has 
been generated in the last 12 months. This compares to 181.91 cents in the 12 months ended 30 April 2017, demonstrating the 
level of value accretion already delivered following the acquisition of the HPE Software business. 

Following the anticipated completion of the SUSE transaction, the Group expects to return a substantial portion of the $2.06bn 
net proceeds to shareholders after tax, transaction costs and any required debt repayment are accounted for. 

Micro Focus International (“MFI”) – Pro-forma Alternative Performance Measures results

The Pro-forma Alternative Performance Measures results include the discontinued SUSE business and 12 months results for 
the acquired the HPE Software business in both the 12 months ended 31 October 2018 and the 12 months ended 31 October 
2017. A reconciliation of the Pro-Forma Alternative Performance Measures results can be found in the “Alternative Performance 
Measures” section of these financial statements. 

• MFI pro-forma constant currency revenue decline of 5.3% between 12 months ended 31 October 2017 and 2018. 

• The trajectory of revenue decline improved in the second six months to 2.7% compared to 8.0% in the first 

six months of the 12 months to 31 October 2018. 

• Continued cost reductions resulted in a 4.6ppt expansion in Pro-forma Adjusted EBITDA margin to 37.7%. 

48

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Pro-forma constant currency 
MFPP Revenue 
SUSE Revenue 

MFI Revenue (Pro-forma constant currency)
Impact of foreign exchange 

MFI Revenue (Pro-forma)

MFPP Adjusted EBITDA 
SUSE Adjusted EBITDA

MFI Adjusted EBITDA (Pro-forma)

 MFI Adjusted EBITDA margin (Pro-forma) %

Pro-forma  
12 months ended 
31 October 2018
(unaudited)
$m

Pro-forma  
12 months ended 
31 October 2017
(unaudited)
$m

3,684.3
373.7 

4,058.0
–

4,058.0 

1,413.6
116.0

1,529.6

37.7%

3,964.1
322.7

4,286.8
(60.1)

4,226.7

1,301.1
100.0

1,401.1

33.1%

Year on year  

change
%

(7.1%)
15.8%

(5.3%)
n/a

(4.0%)

8.6%
16.0%

9.2%

+4.6ppt

*  The results for the 12 months ended 31 October 2017 and 2018 are presented on a pro-forma basis.

All revenue narrative within the “Pro-forma Alternative Performance Measures results” section represents pro-forma constant 
currency as defined within the Alternative Performance Measures section of this Annual Report. The cost base of the HPE 
Software business in the 12 months ended 31 October 2017 included allocations from the HPE Group for central functions 
such as finance, legal and HR. As a result, constant currency analysis of the cost base in this period is not available. As such, all 
costs are presented at actual rates of foreign exchange. For future financial reporting, we will present Adjusted EBITDA on a 
constant currency basis as presented in previous financial periods. 

MFI Pro-forma revenue 
MFI achieved pro-forma revenue of $4,058.0m in the 12 months ended 31 October 2018, reflecting a year on year decline of 
5.3% at constant currency. This reflects an improving revenue trajectory with constant currency year on year revenue decline 
of 8.0% in the first half of the year and 2.7% in the second half. The year on year foreign exchange impact was 1.3% so the 
revenue decline was 4.0% at actual exchange rates.

In the 12 months ended 31 October 2018, revenue generated within the Micro Focus Product Portfolio totalled $3,684.3m 
reflecting a constant currency decline of 7.1% year on year. Again, this shows an improving revenue trajectory with constant 
currency year on year revenue decline of 10.0% in the first half of the year and 4.1% in the second half. Pro-forma constant 
currency revenue trends within the Micro Focus Product Portfolio are discussed later in this section. 

SUSE generated revenue of $373.7m, which reflects growth of 15.8% on a constant currency basis. 

MFI Pro-forma Adjusted EBITDA 
In the 12 months ended 31 October 2018, Pro-forma MFI Adjusted EBITDA increased by 9.2% year on year to $1,529.6m, 
which represents a pro-forma Adjusted EBITDA margin of 37.7%. The overall driver in Adjusted EBITDA margin improvement 
being continued cost reductions in the Micro Focus Product Portfolio partially offset by a decrease in margin within the SUSE 
segment in order to support future revenue growth for the business.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

49

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Chief Financial Officer’s report Continued

Micro Focus Product Portfolio – an improving revenue trajectory and further margin improvement:

• Pro-forma constant currency revenue decline of 7.1% year on year, with an improved revenue trajectory of 4.1% 

in the second half 

• Before the impact of the deferred revenue haircut, revenue declined 6.9% year on year, with second half decline 

of 5.0%.

• Continued operational efficiencies delivering cost reduction of 12.8% year on year.

• Pro-forma Adjusted EBITDA margin increase of 5.1ppt to 38.4% in 12 months ended 31 October 2018.

Pro-forma constant currency revenue:
Licence
Maintenance
SaaS & other recurring 
Consulting

Constant currency revenue before haircut
Deferred revenue haircut

Constant currency revenue 
Foreign exchange constant currency impact

Revenue (at actual FX rates)

Total costs

Adjusted EBITDA (at actual FX rates)

 Adjusted EBITDA margin %

12 months ended 
31 October 2018 
(unaudited)
$m

Pro-forma 
12 months ended 
31 October 2017
(unaudited) 
$m

Year on year  

change
%

878.5
2,235.4
 318.1
287.1 

3,719.1
(34.8)

3,684.3
–

3,684.3

1,007.3
2,297.0
307.9
380.6

3,992.8
(28.7)

3,964.1
(57.6)

3,906.5

(2,270.7)

(2,605.4)

1,413.6

38.4%

1,301.1

33.3%

(12.8%)
(2.7%)
3.3%
(24.6%)

(6.9%)
21.3%

(7.1%)
–

(5.7%)

(12.8%)

8.6%

+5.1ppt

50

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

MFPP Revenue (versus pro-forma constant currency comparatives)
MFPP revenues declined by 7.1% and by 6.9% on an underlying basis, before the impact of the deferred revenue haircut 
adjustment.

Product portfolio:
AMC* 
ADM*
ITOM*
Security
IM&G*

Revenue** before haircut

Regional:
Americas
EMEA
Asia Pacific & Japan

Revenue** before haircut

Product portfolio:
AMC* 
ADM*
ITOM*
Security
IM&G*

Revenue** before haircut

Regional:
Americas
EMEA
Asia Pacific & Japan

Revenue** before haircut

12 months ended 31 October 2018 (unaudited)

Licence
$m

Maintenance
$m

SaaS
$m

Consulting
$m

Total
$m

183.6
141.3
248.9
217.6
87.1

878.5

409.3
347.5
121.7

878.5

333.1
520.3
732.8
446.0
203.2

2,235.4

1,253.9
755.9
225.6

2,235.4

–
98.5
12.4
35.6
171.6

318.1

240.3
59.9
17.9

318.1

12.1
32.6
155.3
63.1
24.0

287.1

117.4
132.8
36.9

287.1

528.8
792.7
1,149.4
762.3
485.9

3,719.1

2,020.9
1,296.1
402.1

3,719.1

Pro-forma Constant currency % change to  
12 months ended 31 October 2017 (unaudited)

Licence
%

Maintenance
%

SaaS
%

Consulting
%

Total
%

3.6%
(6.9%)
(27.3%)
(11.4%)
(3.5%)

(12.8%)

(19.6%)
(4.6%)
(9.0%)

(12.8%)

0.7%
(3.7%)
(3.7%)
(1.2%)
(4.9%)

(2.7%)

(4.2%)
(0.9%)
0.1%

(2.7%)

–
16.6%
(25.3%)
23.6%
(3.6%)

3.3%

4.2%
1.0%
0.0%

3.3%

5.2%
(43.9%)
(25.1%)
(5.8%)
(34.8%)

(24.6%)

(29.7%)
(18.4%)
(27.4%)

(24.6%)

1.8%
(5.0%)
(13.4%)
(3.9%)
(6.3%)

(6.9%)

(8.8%)
(3.9%)
(6.0%)

(6.9%)

* 

 AMC (Application Modernisation & Connectivity), ADM (Application Delivery Management), ITOM (IT Operations Management), and IM&G (Information 
Management & Governance)

**  The trends discussed in this section are presented before the impact of the deferred revenue haircut.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

51

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Chief Financial Officer’s report Continued

Revenue by stream performance (versus pro-forma constant currency comparatives) 
As communicated in July 2018, revenue performance in the six months ended 30 April 2018 was impacted by a number of 
factors, which management consider to be largely one-off transitional effects of the combination with the HPE Software 
business, rather than underlying issues with the end market of the product portfolio. Since identifying these issues, substantial 
investment has been made in stabilising the IT platform and the business has re-structured the go-to-market organisation to 
better align customer coverage and improve customer engagement levels. This re-structuring has been supplemented with 
additional investment in better training and enablement and increased hiring of customer facing sales resources to ensure the 
function was fully staffed at year-end. Additional actions have focused on driving improved execution discipline across the 
Company. As a result, revenue declined by 6.9% year on year (before the impact of the deferred revenue haircut), which reflects 
a decline of 5.0% in the second half of the financial period compared to a decline of 8.7% in the first half. 

In the 12 months ended 31 October 2018, the four revenue streams performed as follows: 

Licence revenue declined by 12.8% in the 12 months ended 31 October 2018 compared with a decline of 18.4% in the six 
months to 30 April 2018. The rate of revenue decline decreased in the six months to 31 October 2018 most notable in the 
Americas as sales execution improved. 

Maintenance revenue declined by 2.7% in the 12 months ended 31 October 2018 compared with a decline of 3.5% in the 
six months to 30 April 2018. The maintenance revenue performance also improved in the second half of the year due to the 
improvement in maintenance revenue attached to new licence sales and a catch up on win backs from the first half of year 
where system constraints inhibited performance. Renewal rates vary at a product level but across the portfolio, we continue 
to see renewal rates consistent with historic rates.

SaaS and other recurring revenue grew by 3.3% in the 12 months ended 31 October 2018 compared with an increase of 
8.8% in the six months to April 2016. Second half performance was driven by actions to rationalise unprofitable operations and 
practices and the refocus of resources and investments to delivering the product enhancements required for long-term success. 

Consulting revenue declined by 24.6% in the 12 months ended 31 October 2018. This decline is a managed decline resulting 
from the Group’s previously communicated strategy to focus on consulting engagements which are directly related to the 
software portfolio rather than pursuing growth on a standalone basis. 

Revenue by product group performance (versus pro-forma constant currency comparatives) 
The Group has more than 300 products reported under five product groups. These products are managed at a granular level 
using the application of the Micro Focus four-box model. The cyclical nature of the software order cycle means that when 
considering underlying revenue trends, year on year growth rates by portfolio are not always indicative of an underlying trend 
and will be impacted by the timing of customer projects. As such, revenue trends at the sub-portfolio level should be viewed over 
the longer term and revenue trends for MFPP overall viewed in a similar fashion to that of a portfolio of funds. 

Application Modernisation and Connectivity (“AMC”)
Licence revenue increased by 3.6% in the 12 months ended 31 October 2018, driven by continued strong performance in the 
Enterprise Solutions product set and the stabilisation of revenue across the rest of the portfolio 

Maintenance and Consulting revenues grew by 0.7% and 5.2% respectively as the level of maintenance and consulting support 
to licence sales continued to track at historical rates. The consulting strategy in this portfolio had already been refocused to 
enabling our other revenue streams prior to the combination with the HPE Software business. 

Application Delivery Management (”ADM”)
Licence revenues declined by 6.9% year on year, with SaaS and other recurring revenue increasing by 16.6% for the 12 months 
ended 31 October 2018. Maintenance revenues declined by 3.7% year on year. Consulting revenues declined by 43.9% driven 
by our decision to refocus execution to be in support of consulting engagements that drive our other revenue streams. 

52

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

The switch from Licence to SaaS witnessed within the ADM portfolio is an example of where customers are offered the choice 
of commercial consumption model. In the current period, more of our customers elected to buy our software “as a service” 
compared to running software under a traditional licence and maintenance model. This was a combination of new customers or 
new projects within existing customers, as well as existing customers moving from running our software on premise to SaaS. 
Overall, combined Licence, Maintenance and SaaS revenue declined by 2.1%. 

IT Operations Management (“ITOM”)
ITOM licence revenue declined 27.3% in the 12 months ended 31 October 2018. Year on year performance was heavily 
impacted by sales execution issues especially in the Americas and by the timing impact of large customer deals. During the 
last 12 months, the portfolio completed a broad based product transition delivering a completely revamped and highly 
competitive set of offerings. As a result, performance in the period is not considered to be a true reflection of the underlying 
performance of the product group within the market in which it operates. 

ITOM Maintenance revenue declined by 3.7% driven primarily by the decline in licence revenue. Consulting revenues followed 
trends with the wider MFPP product group as a result of the actions taken to refocus in this area. 

Security
Licence revenue declined by 11.4% and SaaS and other recurring revenue grew by 23.6% in the 12 months ended 31 October 
2018. Licence revenue performance is broadly attributable to sales execution issues in the first half of the year and not as a 
result of any switch by customers to alternative delivery models such as SaaS.

Maintenance revenue declined by 1.2%. Consulting revenues declined by 5.8% again driven by our decision to focus our 
business on engagements, which will drive our other revenue streams. 

Information Management & Governance (“IM&G”)
Licence revenue declined by 3.5% and SaaS and other recurring revenue declined by 3.6% in the 12 months ended 31 October 
2018. Maintenance revenue declined by 4.9% in the period driven by the overall product mix within this portfolio. The consulting 
revenue decline of 34.8% is the result of the actions taken to refocus in this area. 

Regional performance 
Within the 12 months ended 31 October 2018, the regional revenue performance supports the hypothesis that weak revenue 
performance seen in the first half of the financial year was driven in part by disappointing sales execution rather than an overall 
change in end markets in which we operate. Specifically, we have seen certain products within each sub portfolio growing within 
one geography or customer segment, whilst declining in others. 

The Americas region was impacted most significantly by the HPE S business transaction with more disruption and higher levels 
of attrition than witnessed in the EMEA and Asia Pacific & Japan regions. As a result, revenue declined by 8.8% year on year 
within the Americas, compared to 3.9% and 6.0% in EMEA and Asia Pacific & Japan respectively. 

In the last six months, the business has focused on improving sales execution particularly in the Americas region, which resulted 
in the revenue stabilisation in this region in the second half of the year. 

Adjusted EBITDA performance (versus pro-forma constant currency comparatives)
The Micro Focus Product Portfolio generated an Adjusted EBITDA of $1,413.6m in the 12 months ended 31 October 2018, at 
an Adjusted EBITDA margin of 38.4%. This represents a 5.1ppt increase in pro-forma Adjusted EBITDA margin between the 
periods. 

The ability to drive operational efficiencies within the two businesses via integration was a key thesis for the deal and remains a 
key strategic objective of management. Total costs within the Micro Focus Product Portfolio in the 12 months ended 31 October 
2018 were $2,270.7m. This reflects a reduction of $334.8m on the comparable pro-forma period to 31 October 2017. 

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

53

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Chief Financial Officer’s report Continued

The key drivers for cost reduction between the periods include:

• Personnel costs, including the removing of duplicative roles across the two organisations;
• Concerted spend reduction efforts across central functions;
• A more focused approach to product development including more rigorous application of the four-box model;
• Efficiencies in the sales and marketing organisation; and
• Gross Margin improvement in SaaS and other recurring and Licence revenue streams.

We continue to see opportunities in respect of operational efficiencies and applying the Micro Focus operating model to the 
enlarged portfolio and remain focused on continuous improvement to deliver growth in Adjusted EBITDA year over year, as 
demonstrated consistently historically, through the application of the Micro Focus Operating Model. The 5.1 ppt increase in 
pro-forma Adjusted EBITDA margin to 38.4% reflects an early prioritisation of cost rationalisation areas, which were largely 
independent of system and process efficiencies, as well as strong sales execution at the end of the period. We expect the 
current financial year to benefit from the full year impact of savings already realised in FY18, as well as those arising from our 
continuous improvement programmes, although this will be tempered by a focus on stabilisation as we invest in the information 
systems and build the operational platforms which will enable further efficiencies to benefit FY20 and beyond. 

MFI cash generation 
The Group’s Consolidated statement of cash flows is presented on page 140. The table presented below focuses on those 
items which specifically relate to the Group’s free cash flow, which is considered to be a Key Performance Indicator (“KPI”) of 
the Group. The Group’s KPIs are found on page 30. 

Cash generated from operations before working capital
Movement in working capital

Cash generated from operations
Interest payments
Bank loan costs
Tax payments
Purchase of intangible assets
Purchase of property, plant and equipment

Free cash flow

18 months ended 
31 October 2018
(audited)
$m
1,711.3
(287.0)

12 months ended 
30 April 2017
(audited)
$m
616.0
(51.2)

12 months ended 
31 October 2018
(unaudited)
$m
1,191.1
(39.7)

1,424.3
(301.7)
(101.2)
(99.5)
(92.1)
(40.1)

789.7

564.8
(81.2)
(6.7)
(24.6)
(31.4)
(11.7)

409.2

1,151.4
(219.5)
(10.8)
(79.0)
(56.5)
(30.2)

755.4

In the 18 months ended 31 October 2018, the Group generated $789.7m of free cash flow compared to $409.2m in the 
12 months ended 30 April 2017. In the 12 months ended 31 October 2018, the Group generated $755.4m of free cash flow.

In the last 12 months, the Group’s cash generation has been impacted by the implementation of the new systems within the 
HPE Software business. 

54

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Between 31 October 2017 and 30 April 2018, the Days Sales Outstanding (“DSO”) increased from 65 days to 94 days as the 
newly implemented IT environment caused material disruption within the order to cash process. In the second half of the year, 
the DSO days remains elevated at 94 as at 31 October 2018. Resolving the impact of the system issues remain a key area of 
focus for the finance team and new sales orders are now impacted to a much lower extent by these issues. The impact on DSO 
is primarily driven by invoices raised in the period between 1 November 2017 and 30 April 2018, which have required manual 
invoice remediation before payment can be made by the customer. The effort of correcting administrative invoicing errors and 
resending to customers has caused an extension in the standard payment cycle. We anticipate the cash impact to substantially 
unwind within the 12 months ended 31 October 2019. 

In the 12 months ended 31 October 2018, purchases of intangible assets (relating predominantly to software licences) totalled 
$56.5m compared to $31.4m in the 12 months ended 30 April 2017. In addition, purchase of property, plant and equipment 
increased from $11.7m to $30.2m over the same period. Capital expenditure on both tangible and intangible assets is driven by 
the increase in size and scale of the combined operations. 

The Group’s Adjusted cash conversion ratio (defined as cash generated from operations divided by Adjusted EBITDA less 
exceptional items) for the 12 months ended 31 October 2018 was 105.6% compared to 103.9% in the 12 months ended 
30 April 2017. 

Cash generated from operations

Adjusted EBITDA
Less: exceptional items 

Adjusted EBITDA less exceptional items 

Adjusted cash conversion ratio

18 months ended 
31 October 2018
(audited)
$m
1,424.3

12 months ended 
30 April 2017
(audited)
$m
564.8

12 months ended 
31 October 2018
(unaudited)
$m
1,151.4

2,059.7
(538.2)

1,521.5

93.6%

640.9
(97.3)

543.6

103.9%

1,529.6
(439.7)

1,089.9

105.6%

The Group delivered a cash conversion rate of 105.6% in the 12 months ended 31 October 2018, despite the elevation in 
DSO days noted above. Overall, the Group continues to anticipate adjusted cash conversion rates of between 95% and 100%. 

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

55

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Chief Financial Officer’s report Continued

Net Debt
As at 31 October 2018, Net Debt was $4,253.5m (30 April 2017: $1,410.6m). This represents a Net Debt to Pro-form Adjusted 
EBITDA ratio as follows:

Pro-forma Adjusted EBITDA 
Net Debt
Net Debt/Pro-forma Adjusted EBITDA ratio

12 months ended 
31 October 2018
(unaudited) 
$m
1,529.6
(4,253.5)
2.8 times

12 months ended 
30 April 2017
(audited)
$m
640.9
(1,410.6)
2.2 times

The Group’s net debt ratio of 2.8 times as at 31 October 2018 is after the impact of a share buy-back scheme in which $171.8m 
of shares were repurchased during the period. On 6 November 2018, the programme was extended to a total of $400.0m 
(inclusive of shares already purchased), which was completed in full by 13 February 2019 and has been further extended. 

The board continues to target a modest level of gearing for a company with the cash-generating qualities of Micro Focus with a 
target net debt to Adjusted EBITDA multiple of 2.7 times. Excluding the share buyback undertaken, the Group would have been 
below of the stated 2.7 times target as at 31 October 2018 which is within 14 months of the deal completing. This compares to 
the 17 months taken following the acquisition of TAG and the target date of 24 months set out at completion of the HPE 
Software business transaction. 

We are confident that this level of debt will not reduce our ability to deliver our strategy, invest in products and make appropriate 
acquisitions. The level of interest payments on the term loans remain at a manageable level relative to the scale of the Group. 

The movements on the Group loans in the 12 months to 31 October 2018 were as follows:

At 1 November 2017
Repayments
Foreign exchange

At 31 October 2018

Term Loan
B-2
$m
1,515.2
(11.4)
–

Term Loan
B-3
$m
385.0
(2.9)
–

Seattle 
Spinco
Term Loan 
B
$m
2,600.0
(19.5)
–

Euro Loan
$m
547.5
(4.2)
(12.8)

Total
$m
5,047.7
(38.0)
(12.8)

1,503.8

382.1

2,580.5

530.5

4,996.9

In addition to the term loans and cash reserves, the Group has access to a $500m revolving credit facility, which remains 
undrawn. 

56

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Consolidated statement of financial position
The Group’s Consolidated statement of financial position is presented on page 136. A summarised version is presented below. 

Non-current assets
Current assets
Current assets classified as held for sale

Total assets

Current liabilities
Current liabilities classified as held for sale
Non-current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets 

Total equity attributable to owners of the parent
Non-controlling interests

Total equity

31 October 2018
$’m
13,720.5
1,917.6
1,142.5

16,780.6

2,010.4
437.7
6,540.5

8,988.6

7,792.0

7,791.0
1.0

7,792.0

30 April 2017
$’m
3,995.5
442.2
–

4,437.7

944.7
–
1,879.5

2,824.2

1,613.5

1,612.5
1.0

1,613.5

The net assets of the Group have increased from $1,613.5m to $7,792.0m between 30 April 2017 and 31 October 2018. This 
increase was driven primarily by the acquisition of the HPE Software business. The balance sheet acquired with HPE Software 
business can be found on in note 39 of these financial statements.

In the period, the key movements were as follows:

• Non-current assets increased to $13,720.5m primarily due to the recognition of goodwill totalling $4,858.4m (note 10) and 
purchased intangibles totalling $6,539.8m (note 11) recognised as a result of the acquisition of the HPE Software business; 

• Current assets increased from $442.2m to $1,917.6m with the Group acquiring $710.7m of trade receivables with the HPE 

Software business. Since acquisition, the system issues set out earlier in this section have resulted in an increase in DSO days 
such that trade receivables for the total Group were $1,047.7m at 31 October 2018 (note 17).

• Current assets and current liabilities classified as held for sale reflect primarily the assets and liabilities of SUSE business 

segment, which are due to be disposed of (note 19). 

• Non-current liabilities increased from $1,879.5m to $6,540.5m, primarily due to the new term bank loans drawn down in order 

to fund the acquisition of the HPE Software business. 

• Total equity attributable to the owners of the parent increased from $1,612.5m to $7,791.0m, driven primarily by the issue of 

new share capital on the acquisition of the HPE Software business (note 31). On completion of the acquisition of HPE 
Software business, American Depositary Shares representing 222,166,897 Ordinary Shares were issued to HPE 
Shareholders, representing 50.1% of the fully diluted share capital of the Company at that time.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

57

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Chief Financial Officer’s report Continued

Other financial matters

IFRS 15 “Revenue from contracts with customers”
The Group is required to adopt IFRS 15 “Revenue from contracts with customers” (“IFRS 15”) from the transition date 
of 1 November 2018. Under the IFRS 15 adoption method chosen by the Group, prior-year comparatives are not restated to 
conform to the new policies. Consequently, the year-over-year change of revenue and profit in the year to 31 October 2019 will 
be impacted by the new policies. We anticipate IFRS 15 will increase revenue by $23.0m in the 12 months ended 31 October 
2019. Further details can be found on pages 147 to 148.

US Federal business 
In April 2018, Micro Focus established a new partnership to better serve the needs of our classified and controlled US Federal 
Government customers. The accounting treatment of this contract results in the gross revenue and costs being recognised by a 
third party rather than Micro Focus. Micro Focus accounts for the contract taking a net amount within the income statement 
resulting in a year-on-year reduction in both revenue and the associated costs.

Contractual cash obligations
The following table reflects a summary of obligations and commitments outstanding as of 31 October 2018:

Debt principal repayment
Interest payments on debt

Finance Leases
Operating Leases

Less than 1 year
$m
50.3
227.6

277.9
13.6
65.8

357.3

Payment due by period

1-3 years
$m
100.7
448.9

549.6
13.3
86.4

649.3

3-5 years
$m
1,528.8
309.3

1,838.1
1.6
53.3

1,893.0

After 5 years
$m
3,317.1
96.6

3,413.7
-
22.5

3,436.2

Total
$m
4,996.9
1,082.4

6,079.3
28.5
228.0

6,335.8

Dividend
The board has adopted a dividend policy such that the adjusted profit before tax of the Group twice covers the dividend 
payment. In light of the move to an 18 month accounting period there are two interim dividends and a final dividend in line with 
this policy. The directors declared a final dividend of 58.33 cents per share. The total dividend per share in the 18 month period 
was 151.26 cents. On an annualised basis, this total dividend is 100.84 cents per share, which is growth of 14.5% on the full 
year dividend for the year ended 30 April 2017 of 88.06 cents per share. 

The dividend will be paid in Sterling equivalent to 45.22 pence per share, based on an exchange rate of £1 = $1.29 being the 
rate applicable on 13 February 2019, the date on which the board resolved to propose the dividend. The dividend will be paid on 
5 April 2019 to shareholders on the register at 1 March 2019.

Chris Kennedy
Chief Financial Officer
20 February 2019 

58

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Viability Statement

The context for the assessment
In accordance with provision C.2.2 of the 
Code, the directors have assessed the 
prospects of the Company over a period 
significantly longer than 12 months. The 
directors’ assessment of the prospects 
of the Group covers a three-year period. 
The reason for selecting this period is 
described within the Assessment of 
Viability section below. The Group’s 
business model and strategy are central 
to an understanding of its prospects, and 
details can be found on pages 14 to 67. 

The assessment below assumes the 
proposed disposal of SUSE completes in 
the first quarter of calendar year 2019. In 
recommending the proposed sale of 
SUSE a detailed process was 
undertaken including a review of the 
strategy, risks and cash flows of the 
remaining business and this concluded 
that the proposed sale would not have a 
negative impact on the overall viability of 
the Group.

The assessment process 
and key assumptions
Strategic plan:
The Group’s prospects are assessed 
primarily through its strategic plan and 
annual budget process. This process 
includes an annual review of the ongoing 
plan, led by the executive directors and 
all relevant functions are involved, 
including GTM, Product Group, 
Marketing, Finance, IT, Human 
Resources, Legal, Treasury and Risk. 
The board participates fully in the annual 
process by means of discussion at the 
October board meeting. Part of the 
board’s role is to consider whether the 
plan continues to take appropriate 
account of the external environment 
including macroeconomic and 
technological changes.

The output of the annual review process 
produces an annual budget for the next 
year on which financial forecasts for the 
subsequent two years are based 
assuming no further acquisitions. The 
latest updates to the strategic plan were 
finalised in October 2018 following this 
year’s review. This considered the 
Group’s current position and 
development of the business as a whole. 
The first year of the financial forecasts 
forms the Group’s operating budget and 
is subject to a re-forecast at the end of 
every quarter.

The key assumptions in the financial 
forecasts, reflecting the overall strategy 
include:

• Continued revenue decline in the 
Micro Focus Product Portfolio;

• Cost savings being achieved each year; 

and 

• No debt refinancing.

Assessment of viability
Although the strategic plan represents 
the directors’ best estimate of the future 
prospects of the business, they have also 
tested the potential impact on the Group 
of a number of scenarios over and above 
those included in the plan, by quantifying 
their financial impact and overlaying this 
on the detailed financial forecasts in the 
plan. These scenarios take into account 
the principal risks as set out in pages 32 
to 41, covering a three year period.

These scenarios included various ‘severe 
but plausible’ circumstances that the 
Group could experience, including:

• Higher revenue decline in the 
Micro Focus Product Portfolio;

• Lower Adjusted EBITDA growth; and
• Reduced operating cash conversion.

In making their assessment, the board 
considered the Group’s liquidity over 
the three year period and its ability to 
generate sufficient cash to meet its 
liabilities under current borrowing 
arrangements, a significant proportion 
of which mature between three and 
four years’ time (see note 21 for 
further details).

The results of this stress testing showed 
that the Group would be able to 
withstand the impact of these scenarios 
occurring over the next three years by 
making adjustments to its operating plans 
within the normal course of business.

The Group also considered a number of 
scenarios that would represent serious 
threats to its liquidity. None of these 
were considered to be plausible.

Viability statement
Based on their assessments of 
prospects and viability above, the 
directors confirm that they have a 
reasonable expectation that the Group 
will be able to continue in operation and 
meet its liabilities as they fall due over 
the next three year period ending 
31 October 2021.

Going concern
The directors also considered it 
appropriate to prepare the financial 
statements on the going concern basis, 
as explained in the accounting policies to 
the financial statements.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

59

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Corporate Social Responsibility

“We are making 
additional investments 
in the enablement and 
development of our 
team, increasing focus 
on people engagement, 
inclusion and diversity.”

Stephen Murdoch
Chief Executive
20 February 2019

60

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

In the prior Annual Report, this section 
highlighted the development of the 
Corporate Social Responsibility (“CSR”) 
programme to address the additional 
scale of operations following multiple 
previous acquisitions. This theme has 
continued with the transformational 
acquisition of the HPE Software 
business during the 18 month period to 
31 October 2018. Since October 2014, 
Micro Focus has grown from less than 
1,500 employees to approximately 
14,000, and operations are delivering 
annual revenues of approximately $4bn 
compared to approximately $1.2bn in 
the financial year to 30 April 2017. 
The CSR Committee is developing an 
appropriate Environmental, Social and 
Governance programme with expanded 
resources to address the increased scale 
of the Group, recognise the increased 
relevance and impact of operations, and 
drive, improve and report on progress 
going forward.

CSR activities continue to be monitored 
and planned in four key areas: Marketplace 
and Suppliers; Environment; Charity and 
Community Support and Employees and 
Ethics. The Corporate Responsibility 
Policy can be found on the Micro Focus 
website (www.microfocus.com/about/
responsibility). Micro Focus is committed 
to complying with relevant CSR 
legislation across its global operations 
and strives to achieve standards over 
and above required levels. 

Our product portfolio encourages 
organisations to extract more value from 
their existing technology, avoiding 
expensive and more carbon intensive 
“rip and replace” product migrations. 
Furthermore, we directly enable many of 
our customers to deliver products and 
services that are significant influencers 
in improving society, peoples’ health and 
wellbeing, in addition to reducing our 
customers’ environmental impacts. 

The Auckland Transport example that is 
featured in the case studies on pages 
10 to 11 is a great example of the power 
of Micro Focus technology to enable 
improvements not only in business 
efficiency and effectiveness, but also 
to enhance the safety of a smart city’s 
citizens, and Auckland’s environmental 
credentials.

Additional customer examples include:

• BMW – Developing environmentally 

friendly electric cars in addition to safer 
cars, and autonomous driving cars with 
Micro Focus’ ADM product portfolio;
• Whitlock – Organisation that supports 

the largest US humanitarian relief 
agency to help hurricane victims to 
receive much needed aid faster with 
Micro Focus’ StormRunner Load for 
non-profit; and

• The Climate Corporation – Helps 

farmers around the world protect and 
improve their farming operations with 
uniquely powerful software and 
hardware products powered by Vertica.

Micro Focus’ 
products and 
services continue to 
help organisations 
lower their energy 
impact ———

During the period ended 31 October 
2018 the CSR committee met three 
times to agree priorities and progress 
activities and the CSR programme was 
covered on a number of occasions at 
board meetings during the period. Karen 
Slatford, the senior independent 
non-executive director, is responsible at 
board level for CSR and also chairs CSR 
committee meetings.

Micro Focus continues to be a member 
of the FTSE4Good Index, the 
responsible investment index calculated 
by global index provider FTSE Group. 

Outlined below is the CSR progress that 
Micro Focus has made in the 18 month 
period ended 31 October 2018 across 
the four focus areas.

CSR progress in the period ending 
31 October 2018

Marketplace and Suppliers 
The Group sells more than 300 software 
products and works closely with more 
than 40,000 customers to address many 
organisational challenges and to deliver 
multiple business benefits. In addition 
to helping customers navigate complex 
technology environments, many of 
Micro Focus’ products and services 
continue to help organisations lower 
their energy impact and often customers 
benefit from a lower carbon footprint. 

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

61

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Corporate Social Responsibility Continued

• Continued landlord performance 
monitoring in all locations where 
Micro Focus operations are sited in 
multi-tenant premises;

• Despite the increase in the size of the 

Group, further progress has been made 
continuing the consolidation of the 
data-centre power programme, thereby 
improving efficiencies and reducing 
cost and overall consumption across 
the Group. The data for our Provo 
office facilities in the US during this 
reporting period shows a 10% increase 
in consumption due to the large 
consignments of servers absorbed as 
part of the acquisition. Micro Focus will 
continue to reduce the quantity of 
dedicated server “environments” across 
the wider Group to significantly lessen 
the footprint impact; 

• Additional capital carbon projects took 
place in this reporting period. Lighting 
upgrade projects were deployed 
delivering further reductions in energy 
consumption. Following on from last 
year’s pilot at Micro Focus’ 
headquarters office in Newbury, this 
facility has now completed its transition 
to LED lighting. 

Micro Focus 
continues to 
develop its own 
policies to record, 
monitor and achieve 
improvements in its 
carbon footprint ———

Environment 
This financial period is the first that 
relates to environmental reporting for the 
enlarged operations resulting from the 
acquisition the of HPE Software business. 
The data relating to those Operational 
boundary changes is not available for the 
full reporting period and, as such, this 
reporting period will be considered year 
zero for all future reporting. 

Micro Focus products and services 
help customers to reduce their carbon 
footprint and adopt carbon friendly IT 
strategies by enabling greater efficiency 
and longer life from existing technology 
and equipment. In turn, Micro Focus 
continues to develop its own policies 
to record, monitor and achieve 
improvements in its own carbon footprint. 

Micro Focus’ energy conservation is 
focused on energy efficiencies to drive 
down total energy consumption. The 
importance of reducing energy 
consumption levels is underlined within 
the Group by sharing data and seeking 
employee guidance on how to reduce 
our consumption within the boundaries 
of our operational control. For example, 
staff are encouraged to turn off all 
electrical equipment at weekends and 
over the holiday periods – a scheme that 
has been adopted worldwide. In the last 
reporting period, we extended our 
partnership with the Carbon Trust and 
entered into Phase 2 of the UK Energy 
Savings Opportunity Scheme (“ESOS”), 
the scope of which will reflect the newly 
Enlarged Group. We continued to use 
the audit findings in our energy roadmap 
for driving down our carbon output during 
the period ended 31 October 2018. 

Key points for the 18 months ended 
31 October 2018:

• Building on previous success in 

reducing environmental emissions, 
Micro Focus continued its commitment 
to the Carbon Trust engaging early in 
the ESOS Phase 2 audit scheme. This 
will incorporate the expanded Group 
during the reporting period; 

• Micro Focus did not submit to the 

Carbon Disclosure Project (“CDP”) for 
the first time in 10 years. Due to the 
complexity of the operational boundary 
changes as a result of the HPE 
Software business acquisition mid 
reporting period, obtaining a base year 
of data for the acquired properties has 
been difficult. This will be established 
for the next reporting period. 
Micro Focus will continue the Group’s 
commitment to CDP in the next 
reporting period and continue to further 
raise awareness of the importance of 
and manage emission reductions 
across global facilities;

• CDP practices continue to be deployed 
in order to maintain the standards that 
are embedded and delivering 
encouraging improvements year on 
year in energy reduction. This reporting 
period once again delivered an overall 
reduction;

• On-going commitment to promote 
electronic product distribution has 
delivered the Group’s highest ever 
result for the period. During this 
reporting period 98.93% of software 
products were distributed electronically, 
with just over 1% delivered to 
customers via physical distribution;

• Further improvements across all 

locations either by moving to more 
modern and efficient office 
environments or by improving the office 
environments already in use. Part of 
Micro Focus’ decision-making process 
when sourcing locations is to identify 
LEED ratings wherever possible. We 
continue to choose office buildings 
with LEED rating toward the top end of 
the ratings, sourcing Silver, Gold and 
Platinum sites;

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Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
Greenhouse Gas Emissions 
(“GGE”)
For this reporting period we have 
maintained our methodology for reporting 
Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions. On 
a like for like basis, across the entire 
Group, Micro Focus saw a 1.9% increase 
in energy consumption for this reporting 
year. The EMEA region showed continued 
good progress contributing an overall 
decrease in consumption from the 
previous period. In the APAC region, 
increased headcount and a larger office 
space footprint produced a 2.1% 
increase in consumption. The Americas 
region generated a large increase due 
to the additional infrastructure required 
to accommodate the increased server 
provision in Provo Utah, as a result of 
the acquisition. All other sites in the 
Americas region delivered a 3% 
reduction for this reporting period. 
Excluding the planned increase in 
Provo, worldwide the Group would 
have delivered a 2% reduction in 
consumption. 

This section includes Micro Focus’ 
mandatory reporting of GGE 
pursuant to the Companies Act 
2006 (Strategic Report and 
Directors Report) Regulations 2013.

Reporting period
The Green House Gas (“GHG”) 
reporting period is the same as 
Micro Focus’ financial reporting period 
being 1 May 2017 to 31 October 2018. 

Organisational boundary and 
responsibility
In accordance with the definitional 
requirements of the “regulations”, 
in respect of emissions for which 
Micro Focus is responsible, emissions 
data is reported using an Operational 
Control approach to define the 
Organisational Boundary.

Scope of reporting emissions
Following the acquisition of the HPE 
Software business in September 2017, 
Micro Focus’ operational infrastructure 
approximately doubled in size over 
the previous reporting period. On a 
like for like basis Micro Focus’ energy 
consumption would have been lower 
in the 18 months to 31 October 2018 
than during the previous reporting year 
by 1.9%, with continued best practice 
across the entire real estate, further 
capital investment in “green” projects 
and targeted employee communication 
to staff focused on reducing emissions. 

Despite the enlarged footprint arising 
from the HPE Software business 
acquisition, access to the environmental 
reporting data relating to real estate 
acquired was complex due to the 
disposition of properties across the 
estate. The Company has, where 
possible, implemented the same systems 
and processes that heritage Micro Focus 
used in the past to adopt these across 
the entire organisation. This work is 
helping with the ability to monitor and 
report on year on year comparisons 
going forward. Actual consumption data 
has been used where available. 

All material emission sources over which 
Micro Focus deems to have operational 
control are in scope. These sources are 
defined as the purchase of electricity, 
heat, steam or cooling for the operation 
of facilities and the combustion of fuel 
for that operation of facilities. Processes 
are being established to track other 
sources of emissions such as commercial 
flights for business travel, which is not 
presently covered in this data.

Methodology
The methodology used to calculate 
emissions is based on the most current 
set of regulations published by the 
Department for Environment and Rural 
Affairs (“DEFRA”) relating to relevant 
reporting periods. For consistency, in this 
reporting period our emissions have 
been calculated solely using DEFRA’s 
conversion tables published on their 
website, rather than as in previous 
periods where the energy company’s 
individual fuel mix was used. 

Creating Social Impact

Whitlock supports the largest US 
humanitarian relief agency to help hurricane 
victims to receive much needed aid faster 
with our StormRunner Load® for non-profit.

Helps farmers around the world protect 
and improve their farming operations 
with uniquely powerful software and 
hardware products powered by Vertica.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

63

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Corporate Social Responsibility Continued

Locations and approach taken:

Actual emissions data used:

Bangalore (India), Beijing (China), Belfast (Northern Ireland), Cambridge (US), Cambridge (UK), Dublin (Ireland), Düsseldorf 
(Germany), Ennis (Ireland), Galway (Ireland), Haifa (Israel), Hillsboro (US), Hong Kong (China), Johannesburg (South Africa), 
Kiev (Ukraine), Lisle (US), Milan (Italy), Mumbai (India), New Delhi (India), Newbury (UK), Nuremburg (Germany), Paris x 2 
(France), Prague (Czech Republic), Provo (US), Rockville (US), Singapore (Singapore), Sofia (Bulgaria), Stockholm (Sweden), 
St. Albans (UK) and Troy (US).

The following locations are out of scope due to size and/or lack of availability of information:
Where the data is not available, the same intensity ratio is used for the location on a headcount basis. Average UK CO2/head 
multiplied by headcount:

Alphen den Rijn (Netherlands), Austin (US), Bellingham (US), Brasilia (Brazil), Brighton (US), Burlington (US), Cape Town 
(South Africa), Linz (Austria), Lyon (France), Columbus (US), Costa Mesa (US), Dubai (UAE), Edinburgh (UK), Geneva 
(Switzerland), Hanau (Germany), Horsholm (Denmark), Houston (US), Ismaning (Germany), Lisbon (Portugal), Loveland (US), 
Madrid (Spain), Melbourne (Australia), Mount Pleasant (US), New York (US), Oslo (Norway), Rome (Italy), Rotterdam 
(Netherlands), Santa Clara (US), São Paulo (Brazil), Seattle (US), Seoul (South Korea), Shanghai (China), Shenzhen (China), 
South Euclid (US), Sydney (Australia), Taipei (Taiwan), Tokyo (Japan) and Toronto (Canada). 

Newly acquired sites:

Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates), Aguadilla (Puerto Rico), Alpharetta (United States), Amstelveen (Netherlands), Ariana 
(Tunisia), Austin (United States), Ballerup (Denmark), Bangalore (India), Bangalore (India), Bangalore (India), Barcelona 
(Spain), Barueri (Brazil), Beijing (China), Belfast (United Kingdom), Boeblingen (Germany), Bracknell (United Kingdom), 
Bucharest (Romania), Cambridge, UK (United Kingdom), Cambridge (United States), Canberra (Australia), Chennai (India), 
Chicago (United States), Chongqing (China), Cluj (Romania), Dalian (China), Diegem (Belgium), Dornach (Germany), Dubai 
(United Arab Emirates), Dubendorf (Switzerland), Erskine (United Kingdom), Fort Collins (United States), Galway (Ireland), 
Geneva (Switzerland), Grenoble (France), Gurugram (India), Heredia (Costa Rica), Istanbul (Turkey), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), 
Leon (Spain), London (United Kingdom), Lyon (France), Madrid (Spain), McLean (United States), Moscow (Russian 
Federation), Mougins (France), Nagoya (Japan), Osaka (Japan), Paris (France), Paris (France), Pittsburgh (United States), 
Plano (United States), Pleasanton (United States), Prague (Czech Republic), Ratingen (Germany), Rome (Italy), Shanghai 
(China), Sofia (Bulgaria), Sunnyvale (United States), Taguig (Philippines), Tlaquepaque (Mexico), Tokyo (Japan), Toronto 
(Canada), Wroclaw (Poland), Yehud (Israel).

The following locations are multi-tenanted sites, which are sub-let in their entirety and out of scope for this period’s report: 
Bracknell and Richmond (UK). 

Developing Environmentally 
Friendly Electric Cars in addition to 
Safer Cars, Autonomous Driving 
Cars with our ADM portfolio.

Reducing carbon footprint, easing traffic 
congestion and supporting employees’ 
quality of work and life with our Vibe, Filr, 
Groupwise and Retain products.

64

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

During the period ended 31 October 
2018, Micro Focus made progress on 
reducing the merged Company’s carbon 
footprint by reducing the overall real 
estate of the wider Group, integrating 
locations wherever possible. This 
delivered a net reduction across all 
operations. Total UK data for the Group 
delivered a 3.7% reduction in absolute 
consumption, a direct result of the 
integration strategy. This contributed to 
an extended EMEA reduction of 2.3%. 

Micro Focus reports emissions data on 
all locations where available, irrespective 
of the size of the Micro Focus facility. For 
smaller locations where no such data is 
available from managed serviced offices, 
or where Micro Focus is part of a 
multi-tenant occupancy building, or 
where staffing levels are less than 10, 
the mean average per head is 
extrapolated out from all other locations.

Intensity ratio
To achieve a global picture of emissions, 
whilst recognising that not all locations 
can be in scope, an intensity ratio of CO2 
per tonne/per head has been used. As 
not all entities are revenue generating 

and not all can calculate emissions, 
this ratio should demonstrate a more 
comprehensive assessment.

2018 targets
During the 18 months ended 31 October 
2018, despite the complexities of the 
increased operational boundaries due 
to the acquisition of the HPE Software 
business, Micro Focus continued with its 
commitment to deliver its target of 
achieving year on year reductions of 
emissions. 

During this reporting period, we have 
continued our commitment to the 
Carbon Trust. We have maintained our 
capital budget for investment in energy 
saving initiatives to help us drive further 
reductions. We continued to raise 
awareness locally across all sites. 

Charity and community support
Micro Focus donated over $80,000 
(2017: $80,000) to selected charities 
and community support projects during 
the 18 months ended 31 October 2018. 

The Company encourages employees 
to help local communities and support 
relevant charities, chosen in line with 

agreed criteria and along the guidelines 
of education and local community 
support. A Charity Committee consisting 
of a range of employees from across the 
Company manages contributions to 
these initiatives in two ways:

• Firstly, on a funds-matching basis for 

individual employee charitable pursuits 
and awarding community project grants 
to initiatives put forward by employees; 
and

• Secondly, by allocating a number of 

employee days per month to teams or 
individuals to directly benefit a chosen 
charity or community initiative. 

In prior years, the programme was split 
between six months supporting local 
causes and six months supporting a 
global initiative. In response to employee 
feedback local community initiatives 
were supported for the entire 18 month 
period to 31 October 2018. The 
Micro Focus Community continues to 
be active in all areas of the globe 
committing personal time and financial 
support to causes ranging from donating 
Christmas presents to children in local 
shelters, providing support and winter 
gift packs to projects working with 

Year on year comparisons for energy consumed and carbon emissions

Total energy consumption (metered) MWhrs
Energy consumed (metered) KWhrs per employee
GHG emissions (tonnes e-CO2)
GHG emissions per employee (tonnes e-CO2)
Total estimated GHG emissions (Ktonnes e-CO2)

18 months ended 
31 October 2018
45,817
10,487
12,756
2.92
51.9

12 months ended 
30 April 2017
22,548
5,339
9,113
2.68
10.4

Change %
103.2%
96.4%
40.0%
9.0%
399.0%

Auckland Transportation 
– Safer Roads and 
Efficient Public Transport 
with the help of Vertica

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

65

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Corporate Social Responsibility Continued

The Group has 
invested in a 
range of measures 
to support the 
integration of 
teams ———

• An interim bonus for the performance 
in the six months to 30 April 2018 
was paid to 11,575 eligible non-
commissionable employees in July 
2018. A second interim bonus was paid 
to 10,581 employees in December 
2018, based on performance in the 
12 months to 31 October 2018. The 
balance of the 12 months to 
31 October 2018 performance bonus 
will be paid to approximately 10,700 
eligible non-commissionable employees 
by the end of March 2019. 

• A global ESPP scheme and Sharesave 
schemes in the UK and Ireland were 
launched in March and July 2018. 
These schemes are active across 36 
countries, comprising 90.1% of our 
employees worldwide. The overall 
participation rates were 20.4% of 
eligible employees.

• Driving competitive performance at 

the individual level continues to be an 
important focus to improve productivity 
and performance across the Company. 
A simplified performance feedback 
process has been introduced that 
focuses on quality, forward looking, 
relevant and meaningful development 
focused conversations where emphasis 
is placed on learning from the past and 
developing for the future. Nearly 95% 
of the employee population have so far 
had “Year-end Conversations” for the 
12 months ending 31 October 2018.

homeless people, to responding to local 
disasters such as the flooding in Kerala 
and Karnataka raising INR 600,000. 
This is the seventh year that the local 
“project grants” initiative has been in 
place and in the current period, 12 
charity or community organisations 
benefited across multiple geographies 
across Micro Focus Group operations.

In addition to this, Micro Focus also 
supported a global relief initiative and 
made a single donation to the British 
Red Cross to support the relief efforts in 
Indonesia in response to the earthquake 
and flooding. 

Employees and ethics 
During the 18 months ended 31 October 
2018, Micro Focus employees have 
experienced significant changes in the 
Company they work for. The Group has 
invested in a range of measures to 
support the integration of teams and this 
work is continuing, within the parameters 
of a robust application of the Micro Focus 
operating model. The HPE Software 
business acquisition in September 2017 
followed a prior period of significant 
M&A, and integration experience has 
been valuable in developing employee 
programmes to achieve the effective 
combination of multiple cultures and 
ways of working. Employee numbers 
have grown from approximately 1,200 
employees in October 2014 to more 
than 13,800 by 31 October 2018. 

The Company 
encourages 
employees to help 
local communities 
and support 
relevant charities ———

Integration initiatives include recruitment 
and retention programmes through 
multiple training and performance 
management initiatives across the 
organisation, to support and develop 
employees through a time of substantial 
change. The integration work is naturally 
shifting to and building an environment 
focused on efficient and effective 
outcomes, supported by a simplified, 
stable, rewarding and professional 
workplace. The people agenda is 
focused on employee experience, talent 
enablement, reward and recognition.

Key HR metrics at 31 October 2018

• Total number of permanent employees 
worldwide – 13,879 (30 April 2017: 
4,826);

• Percentage of women – employees 
worldwide – 3,846 (30 April 2017: 
1,081) employees 27.7% (30 April 
2017: 22.4%); 

• Percentage of women – senior 

management – 506 (30 April 2017: 
128) employees 13.2% (30 April 2017: 
11.8%); and

• Percentage of women – governance 

body – 44.4% four out of nine directors 
(30 April 2017: 37.5%, three out of 
eight) (50% including Company 
Secretary (30 April 2017: 44.4%).
• Micro Focus continues to strive for a 
diverse range of candidates for new 
roles, with a significant focus during 
the period on improving the quality of 
Primary Quota Carrying (PQC) hiring 
and capacity of the sales team.
• An Inclusion and Diversity (I&D) 

programme has been launched with 
nine Employee Resource Groups 
worldwide and seven Inclusion & 
Diversity industry partnerships. 
Ongoing sponsorship and support of 
Inclusion & Diversity events included 
World Mental Health Day, LGBTQ+ 
Spirit Day, Black History Month, 
International Women’s Day, Women 
in Tech Leadership, Women in 
Leadership, Grace Hopper annual 
conference and Professional Business 
Women of California annual 
conference.

66

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Key HR metrics at 31 October 2018

Total number of permanent 
employees worldwide

13,879

(30 April 2017: 4,826)

Women – employees worldwide 
3,846 employees – 27.7% 
(2017: 1,081 – 22.4%) 

Women – senior management
506 employees – 13.2% 
(2017: 128 – 11.8%)

Women – governance body
50% (including Company Secretary, 
five out of ten directors (2017: 44.4%))

• All employees now have access to 
24x7 virtual learning resources 
covering business, professional and 
technical skills to enhance individual 
personal development. A first line 
manager programme was launched 
in April 2018 with nine programmes 
conducted so far across all three 
operating regions with a total of 170 
managers attending.

• An excellent record in health and safety 
matters for all employees (no reportable 
incidents in the last 12 months).

• Commitment to ensuring compliance 
with anti-slavery, anti-bribery and 
corruption, data protection and market 
abuse and insider dealing laws has 
continued. A new, board approved 
integrated Code of Conduct was 
rolled-out in August 2018, with 
supporting training materials distributed 
to all employees during October 2018.

• The board has also approved a new 
and integrated Gifts and Hospitality 
Policy, and training on the new policy 
and processes has been rolled out to 
all employees.

• Significant work was undertaken 

during the period to ensure compliance 
with the General Data Protection 
Regulation (“GDPR”). This included the 
approval of four new data protection 
policies by the board, GDPR 
Awareness training has been circulated 
to all employees, and regular 
communications to employees is 
on-going regarding the importance of 
compliance with this topic.

Strategic Report
The 18 months to 31 October 2018 
Strategic Report on pages 14 to 67 is 
hereby approved and signed on behalf 
of the board. 

Kevin Loosemore
Executive Chairman
20 February 2019

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

67

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Corporate governance

The board continues 
to be well balanced, 
with a broad range 
of skills and a good 
understanding of 
the market in which 
we operate.

Kevin Loosemore
Executive Chairman
20 February 2019

68

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Executive Chairman’s introduction

High standards of corporate governance 
and a strong corporate governance 
framework are key contributors to the 
Micro Focus International plc board’s 
commitment to deliver outstanding 
shareholder returns over time. The Group 
operates with a comprehensive set of 
procedures and processes to support 
and enable this governance mandate.

During the financial period ended 
31 October 2018, key developments 
were:

Shareholder engagement
Following extensive shareholder 
engagement leading up to and following 
the acquisition of the HPE Software 
business, which completed on 
1 September 2017, the Group’s 
shareholder register has seen significant 
further change and an increase in US 
ownership. US shareholders owned 
approximately 60% of Micro Focus’ 
shares at 31 October 2018. The 
increase in US ownership was driven 
partly by the structure of the HPE 
Software business transaction, with the 
Group listing 222 million shares on the 
New York Stock Exchange at the time 
of transaction completion, with these 
shares being allocated to HPE 
shareholders. Many of these HPE 
shareholders have continued to hold 
Micro Focus shares, with a number of 
our largest shareholders increasing their 
investment since the time of the 
transaction.

Sale of SUSE business
On 21 August 2018, our shareholders 
approved the sale of SUSE for a total 
cash consideration of $2.535bn to EQT. 
We believe this price represents a highly 
attractive enterprise valuation for SUSE 
at a multiple of approximately 7.9x 
revenue and 26.7x Adjusted Operating 
Profit for the 12 months to 31 October 
2017 and reflects an excellent return 
on the investments we have made to 
support and grow this business since it 
was acquired in 2014. In addition to a 
great value return for shareholders, we 
see the purchaser, EQT, as a strong 
long-term investor for SUSE.

In line with our capital allocation 
strategy we intend to return the majority 
of the SUSE proceeds to shareholders 
following completion after tax, transaction 
costs and any required debt repayments 
have been accounted for. This will be 
shortly after completion of the transaction, 
which is currently anticipated to be in the 
first calendar quarter of 2019.

Talent, development and 
succession planning
Since the last annual report, there has 
been significant change at board level as 
well as in the business. Silke Scheiber, 
Darren Roos and Lawton Fitt joined the 
board as Non-executive Directors, all 
bringing directly relevant skill sets to 
support the newly enlarged company. 
Karen Slatford, Richard Atkins and 
Amanda Brown, together with myself, 
provide continuity and longer term 
experience of the business and strategy.

On 19 March 2018, we announced 
the appointment of Stephen Murdoch 
as CEO of the Company and on 
5 November 2018, we announced that 
Brian McArthur-Muscroft will join the 
board as the new CFO in the first quarter 
of 2019. 

I believe that the board continues to be 
well balanced, with a broad range of 
skills and a good understanding of the 
market in which we operate and the 
challenges which we face.

Board performance evaluation
During the period, we completed a board 
performance evaluation. I have received 
feedback from all of the directors 
confirming that the process has been 
extremely valuable to the board. The 
results have been reviewed and a 
number of improvement areas prioritised 
for 2018/19.

Kevin Loosemore
Executive Chairman
20 February 2019

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

69

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Board of directors

1. Kevin Loosemore, 60
Executive Chairman 
Kevin is our Executive Chairman and a 
member of the Micro Focus board. He 
was appointed non-executive Chairman 
of Micro Focus in 2005 and Executive 
Chairman in April 2011. Kevin is also 
non-executive Chairman of IRIS 
Software Group Ltd.

Kevin was previously non-executive 
Chairman of Morse plc, a non-executive 
director of Nationwide Building Society 
and a non-executive director of the Big 
Food Group plc. His most recent 
executive roles were as Chief Operating 
Officer of Cable & Wireless plc, 
President of Motorola Europe, Middle 
East and Africa and before that, he was 
Chief Executive of IBM U.K. Limited. 

He has a degree in politics and 
economics from Oxford University.

2. Stephen Murdoch, 52
Chief Executive Officer 
Stephen is our Chief Executive Officer 
and a member of the Micro Focus board, 
positions he has held since 19 March 
2018. Stephen joined Micro Focus in 
2012, first serving as General Manager 
of the Product Group and Chief 
Marketing Officer, responsible for all 
software product and services offerings 
development, customer services, 
corporate marketing and strategy. In 
2014, he was appointed Chief Operating 
Officer and Executive Director, having 
responsibility for sales and marketing, 
product strategy, development and 
management, services and business 
operations. 

Prior to Micro Focus Stephen spent 
seven years at Dell, first building Dell’s 
Global Infrastructure Consulting Services 
organisation, and then leading its 
business in Europe, Middle East and 
Africa. Before Dell Stephen had 17 
years’ experience at IBM, latterly serving 
as Vice President, Communications 
Sector with responsibility for the entire 
telco, media, and utilities industry 
portfolio. During his IBM career, Stephen 

held a number of Global, EMEA and UK 
senior management roles with experience 
spanning software and services, storage, 
and enterprise systems.

3. Chris Kennedy, 55
Chief Financial Officer 
Chris joined Micro Focus as Chief 
Financial Officer in January 2018. Chris 
previously served as CFO of ARM where 
he was involved in one of the largest 
UK takeovers culminating in the sale of 
ARM to SoftBank in a deal valuing the 
company at £24.3bn, or 57 times 
earnings. Prior to ARM, Chris spent five 
years as the CFO of EasyJet overseeing 
a period of tremendous growth with 
profit increasing nearly five times. In this 
role, he oversaw a successful capital 
structure reorganisation and led the 
negotiation of the largest plane order 
in UK history. Chris also held senior 
management positions over a 17-year 
career at EMI Music including UK CFO, 
COO International, Group CFO and Chief 
Investment Officer. Chris holds a degree 
in Electrical Sciences from Cambridge 
University and qualified as a Chartered 
Accountant that led to an early career 
in consultancy and venture capital.

4. Karen Slatford, 62
Senior independent non-executive 
director 

Karen is Chair of Draper Esprit plc, 
an AIM listed venture capital firm and 
Foundry, a leading special effects 
software company. Karen is also 
non-executive director of Accesso 
Technology Group plc and Alfa Financial 
Software Holdings plc. Karen began her 
career at ICL before spending 20 years 
at Hewlett-Packard Company, where in 
2000 she became Vice President and 
General Manager Worldwide Sales & 
Marketing for the Business Customer 
Organisation, responsible for sales of all 
Hewlett-Packard products, services and 
software to business customers globally. 
Karen holds a BA Honours degree in 
European Studies from Bath University 
and a Diploma in Marketing.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Board committee memberships  
as at 20 February 2019:
A   Audit committee
R   Remuneration committee
N   Nomination committee

70

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

5. Richard Atkins, 66
Independent non-executive director 

and is known for being a customer 
advocate and Cloud expert. 

Richard is Chairman of Acora, an IT 
Services outsourcing company and YSC, 
a leadership development consultancy 
company. He has spent the majority of his 
career within the IT industry. Previously, 
he was a Director at Data Sciences 
where he led its leveraged buyout from 
Thorn EMI in 1991 and then managed 
its successful sale to IBM in 1996. His 
final role at IBM was as General Manager 
for IBM Global Services Northern Europe 
where he was also a member of the 
IBM worldwide senior leadership team. 
Since leaving IBM in 2005 he has acted 
as a non-executive director for several 
companies including Compel, Message 
Labs, Global Crossing, Morse and 
Easynet. Richard qualified as a Chartered 
Accountant with Ernst & Young.

6. Amanda Brown, 50
Independent non-executive director 

Amanda is the Group Human Resources 
Director at Hiscox Ltd, a FTSE 100 
business and specialist insurer with 
offices in 14 countries. 

Amanda has more than 20 years of 
international HR experience in a variety 
of industries, including consumer goods, 
leisure, hospitality, and financial services. 
Prior to Hiscox, Amanda held a number 
of leadership roles with Mars, PepsiCo, 
and Whitbread plc. She has expertise in 
human resources, remuneration strategy, 
and managing organisations through 
periods of significant change.

7. Darren Roos, 44
Independent non-executive director 

Darren is a technology leader who has 
spent 20 years building businesses 
worldwide. He is the CEO of global 
enterprise software vendor, IFS. Prior to 
IFS, Darren held leadership roles at SAP 
where he was the President of the 
company’s Cloud ERP business and 
at Software AG where he was also 
a member of the board. Darren is a 
thought leader in the technology industry 

8. Lawton Fitt, 65
Independent non-executive director 

Lawton is an investment banker and a 
highly experienced corporate director. 
She currently serves on the boards of 
Ciena Corporation, The Progressive 
Corporation and The Carlyle Group, and 
was previously a non-executive director 
at ARM plc and Thomson Reuters. 
Lawton worked at Goldman Sachs for 
over 23 years in investment banking, 
equities and asset management and for 
more than a decade she led the equity 
capital markets team, focused on 
technology companies. She was elected 
a Partner in 1994 and worked in the 
London and New York offices.

From 2002-2005 Lawton was the 
Secretary (Chief Executive Officer) 
of the Royal Academy of the Arts in 
London, and has served as a trustee for 
a number of not-for-profit organisations 
and foundations, including the Goldman 
Sachs Foundation and the Thomson 
Reuters Foundation. She received her 
undergraduate degree in European 
History from Brown University and her 
MBA from the Darden School of the 
University of Virginia.

9. Silke Scheiber, 46
Independent non-executive director

Silke was an investment professional at 
Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. Partners 
LLP, London, UK from July 1999 and 
became a member in 2012. She retired 
from KKR in 2015. Prior to KKR, Silke 
worked at Goldman, Sachs & Company 
oHG, Frankfurt, Germany from 1996 to 
1999. Silke, who is Austrian, graduated 
from the University of St. Gallen, 
Switzerland. Silke is a director of CNH 
Industrial N.V., the Netherlands and 
Jungbunzlauer Holding AG, Basel, 
Switzerland.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

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a point of contact for those shareholders 
who wish to raise issues with the board, 
other than through the Executive 
Chairman. 

The non-executive directors have met 
without the Executive Chairman present 
to appraise the Executive Chairman’s 
performance. The meeting was chaired 
by the senior independent non-executive 
director, Karen Slatford. A majority of 
the board is made up of independent 
non-executive directors.

The principal corporate governance 
code that applies to companies with a 
premium listing on the Official List of the 
UK Listing Authority during the period 
reported on is contained in the UK 
Corporate Governance Code 2016 
(the “Corporate Governance Code”) 
published by the Financial Reporting 
Council in April 2016, which is available 
at www.frc.org.uk. 

Compliance statement
The directors are committed to ensuring 
that the Company works towards 
compliance with the main principles of 
the Corporate Governance Code and 
throughout the period reported on the 
Company has been in full compliance 
with the Corporate Governance Code, 
other than Provision A.2.1 as a result of 
Kevin Loosemore’s role as Executive 
Chairman. A separate Chief Executive 
Officer has been in place at all times 
during the financial period but the 
Executive Chairman still retains 
executive responsibility for of strategy, 
M&A activities, investor relations and 
executive director development. 

Stephen Murdoch, as Chief Executive 
Officer, is responsible for the day-to-day 
operation of the evolution and delivery 
of the strategy and the business. Kevin 
Loosemore continues to work to ensure 
an orderly transition of executive 
responsibilities to the Chief Executive 
Officer. 

In order to mitigate any potential 
concerns in relation to the Executive 
Chairman role, Karen Slatford, the senior 
independent non-executive director, has 
separate and defined responsibilities 
from the Executive Chairman. Karen 
Slatford chairs the nomination 
committee and is responsible for 
succession planning. During the 18 
months ended 31 October 2018, 
Karen Slatford, in her role as senior 
independent non-executive director, led 
(and continues to lead) on governance 
issues. This included the annual review 
of board effectiveness, and acting as an 
intermediary, if necessary, between 
non-executive directors and the 
Executive Chairman and between the 
Company and its shareholders, providing 

Key corporate governance activities  
in 18 months ended 31 October 2018
Appointment of new executive directors 

Appointment of new non-executive directors

An internally facilitated board review

Details
Appointment Chris Hsu (formerly Chief Executive Officer) 
(resigned 19 March 2018), Stephen Murdoch (Chief Executive 
Officer) and Chris Kennedy (Chief Financial Officer)

Appointment of John Schultz (HPE nominated (resigned 
20 December 2017)), Darren Roos (independent), Silke 
Scheiber (independent) and Lawton Fitt (independent)

This provided positive feedback and useful suggestions, 
see page 78 for details

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Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Governance framework

Group board

Operating committee
Comprises the Chief Executive 
Officer, Chief Financial Officer 
Chief Human Resources 
Officer, Chief Operating 
Officer and the Group General 
Counsel and Company 
Secretary, and is chaired by 
Stephen Murdoch.

Audit committee
See pages 80 to 87  
for more information

Remuneration committee
See pages 90 to 109  
for more information

Nomination committee
See pages 88 and 89  
for more information

The principles set out in the Corporate 
Governance Code cover five areas: 
leadership, effectiveness, accountability, 
remuneration and relations with 
shareholders. With the exception of 
remuneration (which is dealt with 
separately in the remuneration report on 
pages 90 to 109) the following section 
sets out how the board has applied 
these principles.

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01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Corporate governance report Continued

Leadership

The board
The biographies of each director can be found on pages 70 to 71. 
As at 20 February 2019, the board comprised nine directors: 

Name
Kevin Loosemore

Role
Executive Chairman

Stephen Murdoch

Chief Executive Officer

Chris Kennedy

Chief Financial Officer (stepping down 
in February 2019)

Karen Slatford

Richard Atkins

Amanda Brown

Darren Roos

Silke Scheiber

Lawton Fitt

Senior independent non-executive director

Independent non-executive director 

Independent non-executive director 

Independent non-executive director 
(appointed 15 May 2017)

Independent non-executive director 
(appointed 15 May 2017)

Independent non-executive director 
(appointed 17 October 2017)

In accordance with the Company’s 
articles of association, all directors are 
subject to election by the shareholders 
at the first AGM of the Company after 
their appointment and to re-election by 
the shareholders on an annual basis at 
each AGM. Therefore, all directors will 
retire, and seek election or re-election, 
as applicable, at the forthcoming AGM. 
This practice complies with the 
recommendations of the Corporate 
Governance Code. All the proposed 
appointees have been subject to a 
formal evaluation procedure in the last 
12 months. Following that procedure the 
Executive Chairman confirms the 
continuing commitment and effective 
contribution of the directors and 
recommends their re-election. In 
addition, the directors confirm the 

continuing commitment and effective 
contribution of the Executive Chairman 
and recommend his re-election. The 
board also believes in relation to the 
non-executive directors that their skills 
and experience enable them to continue 
to provide valuable contributions to the 
board. The board is satisfied that the 
non-executive directors exercise rigorous 
and objective judgement. 

Role of the board 
The Company is controlled by the board, 
which is principally responsible for 
promoting the long-term success of the 
Group and its system of corporate 
governance. Although the board does 
delegate some matters to its committees 
(such as the remuneration, nomination 
and audit committees), as part of its 

leadership and control of the Company, 
the board has agreed a list of items that 
are specifically reserved for its 
consideration. These include business 
strategy, financing arrangements, 
material acquisitions and divestments, 
approval of the annual budget, major 
capital expenditure projects, risk 
management, treasury policies and 
establishing and monitoring internal 
controls. At each meeting, the board 
reviews progress of the Group towards 
its objectives and receives papers on 
key subjects in advance of each board 
meeting. These typically cover:

• Strategy and budgets;
• Business and financial performance;
• Product plans and development;
• Corporate activities;
• Human resources; and
• Investor relations.

While the board retains overall 
responsibility for and control of the 
Company, the executive directors 
conduct day-to-day management of the 
business. Review of the Group’s principal 
business activities is the responsibility of 
the operating committee. The operating 
committee comprises the Chief 
Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, 
Chief Human Resources Officer, Chief 
Operating Officer and Group General 
Counsel and Company Secretary and 
executive directors and is chaired by 
Stephen Murdoch. 

Powers of the directors in relation 
to share capital
Details of the powers of the directors in 
relation to share capital can be found on 
page 113 of the Directors’ report.

Independent advice
The board has agreed procedures 
for directors to follow if they believe 
they require independent professional 
advice in the furtherance of their 
duties and these procedures allow the 
directors to take such advice at the 
Company’s expense. 

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Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Board meetings
For the current period, the board has 
scheduled meetings on a regular basis, 
approximately every two months with 
additional meetings when circumstances 
and business dictate. In months in which 
the board does not meet, update calls 
are scheduled to review progress. All 
directors receive an agenda and board 
papers in advance of meetings to help 
them make an effective contribution 
at the meetings. The board makes full 
use of appropriate technology as a 
means of updating and informing all its 
members. Board papers are circulated 
electronically to a tablet device, allowing 
directors to access documentation more 

easily and securely. The executive 
directors ensure regular informal 
contact is maintained with non-executive 
directors who are invited to accompany 
the executive directors when visiting 
the Group’s offices. The non-executive 
directors have unrestricted access to 
anyone in the Company. The Executive 
Chairman also meets separately with 
the non-executive directors.

In the 18 months ended 31 October 
2018 under review the board met 
formally on seven occasions. The board 
also met on a further 17 occasions to 
receive interim updates or consider 
matters arising between formal meetings.

Attendance at board meetings
The number of board meetings attended 
by each director in the 18 months ended 
31 October 2018 was as shown in Table 
1 below.

Directors are normally provided with the 
agenda and supporting papers for board 
and committee meetings in the week 
prior to the meeting. If unable to attend 
a meeting, a director will provide 
feedback to the Executive Chairman, 
the chair of the committee or the 
Company Secretary and their comments 
are then communicated to the meeting. 
See Table 2 overleaf.

Table 1: Attendance at board and committee meetings

Kevin Loosemore
Stephen Murdoch1
Chris Kennedy2
Mike Phillips3
Nils Brauckmann4
Karen Slatford
Richard Atkins
Amanda Brown
Darren Roos5
Silke Scheiber5
Lawton Fitt6
Chris Hsu7
John Schultz8

*  During period of appointment.
1  Stephen Murdoch resigned from the board on 1 September 2017 and was re-appointed to the board on 19 March 2018.
2  Chris Kennedy was appointed to the board 8 January 2018.
3  Mike Phillips resigned from the board on 31 January 2018.
4  Nils Brauckmann resigned from the board on 11 July 2018.
5  Darren Roos and Silke Scheber were appointed to the board on 15 May 2017.
6  Lawton Fitt was appointed to the board on 17 October 2017.
7  Chris Hsu was appointed to the board on 1 September 2017 and resigned on 19 March 2018.
8  John Schultz was appointed to the board on 1 September 2017 and resigned on 20 December 2017.

Board

Held*
24
15
14
11
21
24
24
24
23
23
18
8
4

Attended
24
15
14
11
21
23
23
22
19
19
17
8
1

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Table 2: Roles and responsibilities at committee meetings

Roles
Executive Chairman

Senior independent director (“SID”)

Executive directors

Non-executive directors

Company Secretary

Responsibilities
The Executive Chairman has responsibility for setting the board agenda 
(in conjunction with the senior independent director and the Company Secretary), 
the delivery of strategy, M&A activities, investor relations and executive director 
development. He is also responsible for chairing board and general meetings, 
facilitating the effective contribution of non-executive directors, ensuring effective 
communication with shareholders and upholding the highest standards of integrity 
and probity.

The senior independent director, Karen Slatford, chairs the nomination committee 
and is therefore responsible for succession planning. Also, in her role as senior 
independent non-executive director, Karen Slatford leads on governance issues, 
including the annual review of overall board effectiveness and of the Executive 
Chairman’s performance. The senior independent non-executive director also acts 
as an intermediary, if necessary, between non-executive directors and the 
Executive Chairman and between the Company and its shareholders, providing 
a point of contact for those shareholders who wish to raise issues with the board, 
other than through the Executive Chairman. 

The executive directors are responsible for developing the Group’s strategy and 
proposing the budget for board approval. They are also responsible for the financial 
and operational performance of the Group and, in conjunction with the operating 
committee; they are collectively responsible for the day-to-day running of the 
business.

The role of the non-executive directors is to ensure that independent judgement 
is brought to board deliberations and decisions. They promote the highest 
standards of integrity, probity and corporate governance throughout the Company. 
The non-executive directors possess a wide range of skills and experience, 
relevant to the development of the Company, which complement those of the 
executive directors. 

The Company Secretary is accountable to the board through the Executive 
Chairman to whom she reports. It is the responsibility of the Company Secretary 
to ensure that board procedures are followed and all rules and regulations are 
complied with. The Company Secretary’s responsibilities include facilitating the 
induction and professional development of directors and ensuring the smooth flow 
of information between board members, between the board and its committees 
and between non-executive directors and senior management. In addition, all 
directors have direct access to the advice and services of the Company Secretary.

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Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Table 3: Board agenda and key activities throughout the financial year

Matters considered at all scheduled 
board meetings
• Key Project status 

and progress

• Strategy 
• Financial reports and 

statements

• Operational reports, 
issues and highlights
• Investor relations and 
capital markets update

• Key legal updates
• Key transactions
• Assurance and risk 

management

• Compliance Committee 

Reports

Key activities for the board in the 18 months to 31 October 2018

• 2018 budget review and 2019 budget approval
• Periodic updates on corporate regulatory changes and reporting requirements
• Internally facilitated board review
• Completion of the HPE Software business transaction and integration planning and 

implementation

• Approved initial Share buy-back programme and extension
• Reviewed and recommended the disposal of the SUSE business 
• Approved new Code of Conduct and revised Group policies relating to anti-bribery and 

data protection

• Reviewed and updated the matters reserved for the board
• Reviewed and approved changes to the membership of the board’s committees
• Reviewed IT infrastructure changes
• Reviewed compliance with debt covenants and liquidity
• Reviewed risk and long-term viability review and evolution of Risk Management Framework

Karen Slatford, the senior independent 
non-executive director, Richard Atkins, 
Amanda Brown, Darren Roos1, Silke 
Scheiber1 and Lawton Fitt2, each a 
non-executive director, are considered 
by the board to be independent as they 
are free from any business or other 
relationship which could materially 
interfere with the exercise of their 
judgement. They are also considered to 
be independent as they have all served 
less than nine years on the board, they 
receive no additional benefits from the 
Group and they have not previously held 
an executive role within the Group.

Board agenda and key activities 
throughout the financial period
The table above sets out matters that 
the board discussed at each meeting 
and the key activities that have taken 
place throughout this period. 

Management structure
A clearly defined organisational 
structure exists within which individual 
responsibilities are identified and can 
be monitored. The management of the 
Group as a whole is delegated to the 
Chief Executive Officer and the 
operating committee.

1  Appointed on 15 May 2017. 
2  Appointed on 17 October 2017.

Non-executive directors are appointed 
for specific terms. Full details of their 
appointment are on page 93 of the 
remuneration report. The letters of 
appointment for the non-executive 
directors are available for inspection by 
any person at the Company’s registered 
office during normal business hours and 
at the AGM (during, and for 15 minutes 
prior to, the meeting). 

The operating committee, chaired 
by the Chief Executive Officer, Stephen 
Murdoch, and comprising the Chief 
Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, 
Chief Operating Officer, Chief Human 
Resources Officer and the Group General 
Counsel and Company Secretary, meets 
regularly to agree strategy, monitor 
operational performance and consider 
key business issues. As part of its review, 
it considers the risks associated with the 
delivery of strategy and important 
governance issues within the Group’s 
operating companies.

There are a number of Group 
administrative functions such as Finance, 
Treasury, Human Resources, IT, Corporate 
Communications and Legal. These 
functions report to the board through 
the operating committee. The operating 
committee has four male members and 
one female member, 13 of the 50 direct 
reports to the operating committee 
are female. 

A number of Group-wide policies, issued 
and administered centrally, have been 
approved to ensure compliance with key 
governance standards. 

These policies include areas such as 
finance, contract approvals, data 
protection, share dealing, business 
conduct, ethics and anti-bribery and 
corruption and anti-slavery and human 
trafficking.

The conduct of Micro Focus’ individual 
businesses is delegated to local and 
regional executive management teams 
subject to a chart of approvals policy, 
which is communicated to all employees 
in the Group. These teams are 
accountable for the conduct and 
performance of their businesses within 
the agreed business strategy.

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01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Corporate governance report Continued

• Allowing more time for board and 

committee meetings including holding 
board and committee meetings on 
different day; 

• Continuing to work with senior leaders 

in order to improve the content, 
conciseness and format of board 
papers; 

• Continued focus on developing the 
culture of the Enlarged Group; and

• A review of board succession, including 

size and skill mix of NEDs, and of 
management succession and talent 
pipeline.

Progress had been made on previous 
period recommendations, namely:

(1) to ensure understanding of the 
culture of the HPE Software business 
and maintain the important Micro Focus 
cultural elements, recognising that 
cultures would need to evolve for the 
Enlarged Group; and 
(2) to ensure preservation of the 
Company’s measurement and 
compensation system, its Adjusted 
EBITDA targets to 2020, the leadership 
team and the Company’s product 
management process.

The senior independent non-executive 
director meets with the non-executive 
and executive directors at least once a 
year to review the Executive Chairman’s 
performance.

Effectiveness

Induction of new directors
Each new director receives a 
comprehensive, formal and tailored 
induction into the Company’s operations. 
The directors can request that 
appropriate training is available as 
required. New directors’ inductions 
include briefings on the Company’s 
business, strategy, constitution and 
decision-making process, the roles and 
responsibilities of a director and the 
legislative framework. New directors also 
meet with the Group’s senior product 
and other managers and with the 
Company’s shareholders at the AGM. 

Board evaluation 
A comprehensive evaluation of the 
performance of the board, its 
committees and each of its directors is 
carried out annually. The process is led 
by the senior independent non-executive 
director and supported by the Company 
Secretary. The outcome of the evaluation 
is discussed in detail by the board and 
any key recommendations are reviewed 
and implemented during the following 
period. As previously reported, the 2016 
board evaluation was externally 
facilitated by the JCA Group. The 2017 
and 2018 board evaluations were 
internally facilitated and took the form 
of surveys completed by members of the 
board with respect to the performance 
of the board and each of its committees, 
as well as individual director surveys. 
The surveys included an assessment of 
the effectiveness of the performance 
of the board and its committees and 
compliance with corporate governance 
principles. The most recent evaluation 
process was conducted in October 
2018. All directors have endorsed the 
internal evaluation process as being a 
valuable exercise. An external evaluation 
will be conducted in 2019 and reported 
on in the next annual report. 

The most recent board evaluation was 
structured as follows: 

Stage 1 – Comprehensive 
questionnaires – This period’s 
questionnaires focused on board 
composition, skills, expertise and 
diversity as well as board dynamics and 
operation, succession planning, strategic 
oversight and board support. They also 
covered progress on items raised in the 
prior periods’ internal evaluation and on 
the major corporate transactions that 
took place during the period.

Stage 2 – Compilation of results – 
A report was compiled by the Company 
Secretary which consolidated the 
directors’ responses.

Stage 3 – Reporting and discussion – 
The report was discussed with the 
Executive Chairman and with the chairs 
of the respective committees and was 
reviewed by the board and committees 
in detail at the board’s meeting in 
October 2018. The Executive Chairman 
then held discussions with each Director 
and reported the outcomes to the board 
meeting in December 2018.

Conclusions and outcomes
The evaluation found the performance of 
each director to be effective, that each 
director had demonstrated commitment 
to the role and that the board had 
provided effective leadership and control.

The results of the evaluation was for a 
period of change and challenge for the 
Company and the results would be used 
to assist the board in developing its 
approach and practices in the future 
including:

• Dedicating more time at board 

meetings to strategy, products and 
markets, succession planning, company 
culture, risk and governance;

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Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
Accountability and audit

The board is responsible for the 
preparation of the Annual Report and 
Accounts. The board considers the 
Annual Report and Accounts, taken 
as a whole, to be fair, balanced and 
understandable and provides the 
information necessary for shareholders 
to assess the Company’s position 
and performance, business model 
and strategy.

This responsibility is administered 
primarily by the audit committee and 
details of how this is done are described 
in the audit committee report on pages 
80 to 87.

Internal Control and Risk 
Management
Details of the Company’s internal control 
and risk management systems in relation 
to the financial reporting process can be 
found on pages 32 to 41.

Conflicts of interest
In accordance with the Companies Act 
2006, the Company has put in place 
procedures to deal with conflicts of 
interest, which have operated effectively. 
The board is aware of the other 
commitments of its directors and is 
satisfied that these do not conflict with 
their duties as directors of the Company. 
Any changes to these commitments are 
reported to the board. 

Anti-bribery and corruption
During the period, the Group reviewed 
and updated its compliance programme 
to ensure it is appropriate for the 
increased size of the Group and 
introduced a new integrated Code of 
Conduct in August 2018. To comply with 
the Bribery Act 2010 and the Foreign 
Corrupt Practices Act 1977 (US), the 
Company’s Code of Conduct includes an 
Anti-Bribery and Corruption Policy and 
a Gifts and Hospitality Policy. 

The Code of Conduct also includes 
policies on whistleblowing, charitable 
donations and sets out the appropriate 
level of behaviour expected from all staff. 
Training on the new Code of Conduct 

and processes has been rolled out to 
all employees.

Anti-slavery and human trafficking 
The Group’s anti-slavery and human 
trafficking policy has been incorporated 
into the Code of Conduct and its modern 
slavery statement has been published on 
its website to comply with the Modern 
Slavery Act 2015. 

shareholders. The whole board is kept 
up to date at its regular meetings with 
the views of shareholders and analysts. 
External analysts’ reports are also 
circulated to directors.

The Company’s website 
(www.microfocus.com) provides 
an overview of the business including 
its strategy, products and objectives.

Shareholder relations

The Company values the views of 
shareholders and recognises their 
interests in the Group’s strategy and 
performance.

Substantial shareholdings
Details of the substantial shareholdings 
can be found on page 111 of the 
Directors’ report.

Rights and obligations attaching 
to shares
Details of the rights and obligations 
attaching to shares can be found on 
page 112 of the Directors’ report.

Shareholder communications
The Company currently reports formally 
to shareholders twice a year, in February 
(preliminary announcement of annual 
results) and July (interim statement). 
The annual report is made available and 
mailed to shareholders at least 20 
business days before the AGM. Separate 
announcements of all material events 
are made as necessary. Regular 
communications are maintained with 
institutional shareholders and 
presentations are given to shareholders 
when the half year and full year financial 
results are announced and at other 
times. In addition to the Executive 
Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and 
Chief Financial Officer, who have regular 
contact with investors, Karen Slatford 
(the senior independent non-executive 
director) and the other non-executive 
directors are available to meet with the 
Company’s shareholders as and when 
required in order to develop a balanced 
understanding of the issues and 
concerns particularly of major 

All Group announcements are available 
on the Company’s website and new 
announcements are published without 
delay. The terms of reference of each of 
the board’s three committees and other 
important corporate governance 
documents are also available on the 
Company’s website and from the 
Company Secretary. Additionally, the 
Executive Chairman, Chief Executive 
Officer, Chief Financial Officer and the 
Director. Corporate Communications and 
Investor Relations provide focal points 
for shareholders’ enquiries and dialogue 
throughout the period.

Announcements
All major announcements are approved 
by the executive directors and circulated 
to the board for approval prior to issue. 
The Group also has internal and external 
checks to guard against unauthorised 
release of information.

AGM
The Company’s AGM will be held on 
29 March 2019 at 10 am (UK time) at 
the Company’s Headquarters at The 
Lawn, 22-30 Old Bath Road, Newbury, 
Berkshire RG14 1QN. The AGM will 
provide an opportunity for members of 
the board to meet with all shareholders 
and the participation of shareholders is 
encouraged. At the meeting, in addition 
to the statutory business, members of 
the board will be available for questions 
from shareholders.

In accordance with the Corporate 
Governance Code recommendations, 
a resolution will be proposed for each 
substantive issue and the chairs of the 
audit, remuneration and nomination 
committees will be available to answer 
questions.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

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01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Audit committee report 

Audit Committee

Members:
Richard Atkins 
Karen Slatford (resigned  
21 September 2017)
Amanda Brown

Lawton Fitt (appointed  
17 October 2017)
Silke Scheiber (appointed  
21 September 2017)

Chairman
Independent non-
executive director
Independent non-
executive director
Independent non-
executive director 
Independent non-
executive director

Number  
of meetings 
for which 
eligible to 
attend

Number of 
meetings 
attended

10

3

10

7

7

10

3

10

7

6

Committee Chairman’s introduction

Dear fellow shareholders,

I am pleased to present the audit 
committee report for the 18 months 
ended 31 October 2018. The report 
details the activities of the committee 
during the 18 months ended 
31 October 2018.

In this report I have detailed how the 
committee has discharged its 
responsibilities in relation to the 2016 
UK Corporate Governance Code and 
in particular how the committee has 
focused on internal control and risk 
management. 

Composition of the committee
The committee was chaired during the 
period by myself, Richard Atkins. The 
other members are currently Amanda 
Brown, Lawton Fitt (appointed to the 
committee on 17 October 2017) and 
Silke Scheiber (appointed 21 September 
2017). Karen Slatford (resigned from the 
committee on 21 September 2017). 
Jane Smithard acts as Secretary to the 
committee. By virtue of my former 
executive and current non-executive 
responsibilities (full details of which are 
set out on page 71) the board considers 
that I have recent and relevant financial 
experience. 

All members of the committee are 
independent non-executive directors. 
Executive directors attend the 
meetings together with the Head of 
Tax and Treasury, the Director of 
Internal Audit and Risk and the Director 
of Finance. Representatives of 
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (“PwC”) 
(Internal Auditor), KPMG LLP (“KPMG”) 
(External Auditor) and Deloitte LLP 

(“Deloitte”) (External Tax Advisors) 
also attend the committee meetings.

PwC were the external auditors until 
the completion of the HPE Software 
business transaction. KPMG were the 
internal auditors until 30 April 2017. 
Deloitte acted as internal auditors in the 
interval between KPMG stepping down 
as internal auditors and PwC’s 
appointment as internal auditor.

Role and responsibilities of the 
committee
The committee is responsible for:

• Reviewing the Group’s Annual Report 
and Accounts and Interim Report prior 
to submission to the full board for 
approval;

• Monitoring the Group’s accounting 
policies, internal financial control 
systems and financial reporting 
procedures;

• Providing a forum through which the 
Group’s external and internal auditors 
and external tax advisors report to the 
board. The external and internal 
auditors together with the tax advisor 
attend all meetings of the committee 
and also meet privately with committee 
members in the absence of executive 
management prior to each committee 
meeting;

• Overseeing the relationship with the 

external auditors, including the 
independence and objectivity of the 
auditors (taking into account UK 
professional and regulatory 
requirements and the relationship 
with the audit firm as a whole) and the 
consideration of audit fees and fees for 
non-audit work; and 

• The process for employees of the 
Company to raise, in confidence, 
concerns about possible impropriety in 
matters of financial reporting or other 
matters, which are contained in the 
committee’s terms of reference.

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Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

The written terms of reference of the 
committee are reviewed annually. The 
committee is satisfied that the terms 
of reference enable it to fulfil its 
responsibilities. The terms of reference 
include, among other things, the 
following responsibilities:

• To report to the board on its 

proceedings, identifying any matters 
in respect of which it considers that 
action or improvement is needed and 
make recommendations as to the steps 
to be taken;

• To monitor the integrity of the financial 
statements of the Company and ensure 
that the interests of shareholders are 
properly protected in relation to 
financial reporting and internal controls;

• To assist the board in fulfilling its 

oversight responsibilities by reviewing 
and monitoring the Company’s internal 
financial controls and internal control 
and risk management systems and at 
least annually carry out a review of its 
effectiveness;

• To ensure that a robust assessment of 
the principal risks facing the Company 
has been undertaken and provide 
advice on the management and 
mitigation of those risks;

• To keep under review the adequacy 
and effectiveness of the Company’s 
internal controls, internal financial 
controls and risk management 
systems;

• To review and challenge where 
necessary the going concern 
assessment and the longer-term 
viability statement;

• To review the Company’s procedures 

for preventing and detecting fraud, the 
Company’s systems and controls for 
the prevention of bribery, the adequacy 
and effectiveness of the Company’s 
anti-money laundering systems and 
the Company’s arrangements for its 
employees to raise concerns about 
possible wrongdoing in financial 
reporting or other matters;

• To monitor and review the need for, 

• Considered the Annual Report and 

and the effectiveness of, the 
Company’s internal audit function in the 
context of the Company’s overall risk 
management system;

• To report to the board as to whether 
the Annual Report and Accounts, 
taken as a whole, is fair, balanced and 
understandable; and

• To oversee the relationship with the 
Company’s auditors, ensuring the 
independence and objectivity of the 
auditors, considering audit fees and 
fees for non-audit work and making 
recommendations to the board in 
relation to the appointment, 
reappointment and removal of the 
Company’s external auditor.

Accounts in the context of being fair, 
balanced and understandable and 
reviewed the content of a paper 
prepared by management with regard 
to this principle in relation to the 2018 
Annual Report and Accounts. Further 
details can be found on page 84;
• Considered the effectiveness and 
independence of the external audit;
• Considered the effectiveness and 
independence of the external tax 
advisors and internal auditors; 

• Considered and agreed the annual 

internal audit plan and reviewed reports 
of the work done by the outsourced 
internal auditors, PwC, in respect of 
those plans;

The audit committee’s terms of 
reference can be found on the 
Company’s website at:

https://investors.microfocus.com/
governance-policies/committees- 
of-the-board/ 

What the committee did during the 
18 months ended 31 October 2018
The committee met 10 times during the 
18 months ended 31 October 2018. In 
addition to standing items on the agenda, 
the committee: 

• Received and considered reports from 
the external auditor in respect of the 
auditor’s review of the interim results 
for the six months to 31 October 2017 
and the 12 months to 30 April 2018, 
the audit plan for the 18 months ended 
31 October 2018 and the results of the 
annual audit. These reports included 
the scope of the interim review and 
annual audit, the approach to be 
adopted by the auditors to address and 
conclude upon key estimates and other 
key audit areas, the basis on which the 
auditors assess materiality, the terms 
of engagement for the auditors and an 
on-going assessment of the impact of 
future accounting developments for 
the Group;

• Reviewed the remediation progress 
of internal audit recommendations;
• Considered the review of material 
business risks, including reviewing 
internal control processes used to 
identify and monitor principal risks 
and uncertainties;

• Reviewed the proposed KPMG audit 
strategy in relation to the 2018 audit;

• Received reports from the SOX 

Steering Group and reviewed the 
progress of the SOX implementation 
plan (please also refer to page 41 
for further information on the SOX 
implementation); 

• Reviewed proposals related to the 

share buy-back;

• Reviewed proposals related to the 

Return of Value;

• Reviewed Transaction Documentation 
for the disposal of the SUSE business, 
including the Circular to shareholders;

• Reviewed IT infrastructure plans;
• Reviewed and discussed reports 

provided by the Group’s tax department 
regarding significant tax issues and 
projects;

• Review and approved tax projects and 

associated professional fee 
expenditure in line with the Group’s tax 
strategy and tax policies;

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01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Audit committee report Continued

• Reviewed the reporting of tax within 
the Interim and Annual Report and 
Accounts; 

• Reviewed and discussed reports 
provided by the Group’s treasury 
department, including matters related 
to compliance with the treasury policy 
and the Group’s credit facilities;

• Reviewed and approved an updated 

treasury policy;

• Reviewed the committee’s composition 
and confirmed that there is sufficient 
expertise and resource for the 
committee to fulfil its responsibilities 
effectively; 

• Reviewed and approved the process 

and advised management of the 
information that would be required for 
the board to sufficiently review the 
Company’s viability for the next three 
years. Further information can be found 
on page 59;

• Reviewed the progress of the Annual 

Fraud Risk Management plan;

• Reviewed the plans and progress of 

integrations;

• Reviewed the accounting work streams 

and financing in relation to the 
acquisition of the HPE Software 
business;

• Reviewed and approved an insurance 

strategy for the Enlarged Group;

• Reviewed documentation required for 
the listing of American Depositary 
Shares on the New York Stock 
Exchange;

• Reviewed the Form 20F; and
• Reviewed the US Tax reforms 

restructuring.

In carrying this out, the committee 
considered the work and 
recommendations of the Group finance 
team, executive management and their 
own understanding of the business. In 
addition, the committee received reports 
from the external auditors setting out 
their view on the accounting treatments 
and judgements included in the Annual 
Report and Accounts. The external 
auditor’s reports are based on a full 
audit of the Annual Report and Accounts 
and a review of the interim financial 
statements.

The chairman of the committee has 
regular contact outside of the formal 
meetings with the partners of professional 
firms responsible for external and 
internal audit and tax advice.

Significant estimates and 
judgements considered in relation 
to the Annual Report and Accounts 
The Annual Report and Accounts were 
assessed by the committee, together 
with the appropriateness and application 
of accounting policies and areas of 
significant estimates and judgement. 
The significant estimates and 
judgements considered by the 
committee were as follows:

Revenue recognition
The Group has a detailed policy on 
revenue recognition for each category 
of revenue: Licence, Maintenance, 
Subscription, Software as a Service and 
other recurring revenue (“SaaS and other 
recurring revenue”) and Consultancy. 
This includes the application of rules 
relating to the allocation of fair values 
between these categories in accordance 
with the policy and the timing of their 
recognition. It also identifies the different 
types of commercial contracts that the 
Group enters into and confirmation that 
the revenue recognition is in line with 
IFRS. As is the case with many 
technology companies, the profile of 
sales is weighted to the end of the 
financial quarter. For licence revenue in 
particular the impact on recognised 
revenue is also weighted to the end of 
each financial quarter. This can lead to 
the risk of misstatement of revenues 
from one period to the next. 

The committee received a paper from 
management on key revenue recognition 
judgements made during the period 
and reviewed the appropriateness of 
identifying multi-element arrangements 
and the associated allocation of fair 
values between Licence, Maintenance, 
Subscription, SaaS and other recurring 
revenue and Consulting. The committee 
also considered the controls that 
management has in place to ensure that 
the fair value allocation of revenue is 

appropriate. On the basis of the above, 
the committee concluded that the 
Group’s revenue recognition was 
appropriate.

Business combinations
There were a number of changes to 
the Group’s structure during the period, 
which included three acquisitions. As 
detailed in note 39, the related 
consideration during the period was 
$6,533.4m, which resulted in an 
increase of goodwill ($4,864.0m) and 
acquired intangibles ($6,556.3m). 

The committee considered the risk that 
acquisitions are not accounted for 
correctly in line with IFRS 3 “Business 
combinations” including:

• The recording of fair value adjustments; 

and

• The identification and valuation of 

acquired intangibles. 

Valuations of the acquired intangible 
assets of all material acquisitions were 
performed by external valuation experts. 
Management determined this to be 
appropriate due to the size and 
complexity of these acquisitions. For 
smaller acquisitions, management deems 
it appropriate for the valuation of 
acquired intangibles to be performed 
in-house. Valuation and accounting 
papers prepared by Management and 
external experts were reviewed and 
considered appropriate by the audit 
committee. This included consideration 
of the following:

• Cash flows and discount rates used 

in business valuations; 

• Models and key inputs used in 

intangible asset valuations including 
expected useful lives;

• Fair value adjustments made by 

management to arrive at the fair values 
of the assets and liabilities acquired;
• In respect of the acquisition of the HPE 
Software business, the identity of the 
accounting acquirer; and

• The approach taken to identify 

intangibles.

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Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Provision for income taxes
Judgements have to be made by 
management on the tax treatment of a 
number of transactions in advance of the 
ultimate tax determination being known. 
In assessing the appropriateness of the 
provision recognised in respect of 
uncertain tax positions, the committee 
considered a report prepared by the 
Group’s tax department setting out the 
basis for the assumptions made. They 
discussed the assumptions in light of the 
current tax environment and the status 
of tax audits in the main jurisdictions 
in which the Group operates. The 
committee concluded that the position 
taken on uncertain tax positions was 
appropriate.

Exceptional items 
The committee considered a report 
from management that described the 
treatment and disclosure of amounts 
included within exceptional items. With 
the completion of three acquisitions in 
the period including the acquisition of 
the HPE Software business for $6.5bn 
and the on-going readiness activities 
required to divest the SUSE business 
segment in 2019, a material level of 
costs have been incurred on on-going 
one off activities to acquire, integrate, 
restructure and prepare for divestiture 
which management have deemed to 
be exceptional given their nature and 
significance. These costs have been 
necessary to bring together the base 
Micro Focus, TAG, Serena and the HPE 
Software business into one organisation. 
The committee agreed that whilst the 
level of exceptional costs is high, they 
have been treated consistently period 
on period and reflect the substantial 
ongoing integration activities. In 
particular, the committee also agreed 
with management that the financial 
impact of the US tax reforms which 
resulted in a net tax credit of $692.3m 
should be considered exceptional and 
excluded from underlying profit 

measures. The classification of certain 
income statement items as exceptional 
by the Group and its impact on related 
Alternative Performance Measures have 
been reviewed by the committee during 
the period with reference to authoritative 
guidance and regulations as well as 
through discussions with management 
and external advisors. The committee 
is satisfied that the use of exceptional 
items and its impact on Alternative 
Performance Measures is appropriate 
and enhances the understanding of the 
Group’s financial performance and its 
prospects. The committee concluded 
that exceptional items were disclosed 
appropriately and reflected how they 
review the underlying performance of 
the Group.

Potential impairment of goodwill 
and purchased intangibles
Management has completed the annual 
impairment review at period-end of its 
goodwill and purchased intangibles. 
The net book value of the purchased 
intangibles is $6,485.9m and goodwill 
is $6,805.0m. The principal judgements 
are the achievability of business plans 
(and therefore future cash flows), 
long-term growth rates beyond the 
period covered by the five-year forecasts 
and the appropriateness of the pre-tax 
discount rate applied to future cash 
flows. The committee discussed a report 
from management setting out the basis 
for the assumptions, confirmation that 
the cash flows used were derived from 
board approved forecasts and a 
sensitivity analysis on key assumptions 
that showed there were reasonably 
possible changes in the discount rate 
that could have an adverse impact. The 
committee agreed with the judgements 
made by management and that it was 
appropriate for additional disclosure to 
be made in light of the sensitivity of the 
impairment analysis to the discount rate. 

Provisions for bad debt 
The committee considered a report from 
management setting out the basis for 
the judgements made. In respect of the 
bad debt provision, there was a particular 
focus on the sensitivity to a change in 
the volume of aged invoices that are 
expected to be collected given it has 
been identified that the on-going 
increase in DSO days is due to a high 
volume of historic invoices that require 
administrative remediation before 
payment can be made by a customer, 
rather than any specific customer credit 
risks. The committee agreed with the 
judgements made by management.

Retirement benefit obligations
The committee considered a report from 
management setting out the primary 
assumptions including mortality, inflation 
and the rates at which scheme liabilities 
had been discounted and the sensitivity 
of amounts recorded in the balance 
sheet and income statement to changes 
in these assumptions. The committee 
concluded that the assumptions used, 
which were supported by third party 
actuarial advice, were appropriate. 

SUSE presentation as a 
discontinued operation
Prior to shareholder approval for the 
SUSE divestiture being obtained, the 
Micro Focus (“MFPP”) and SUSE 
Product Portfolios were the Group’s two 
historical operating segments. MFPP 
provided the central function services 
with the cost of supporting the SUSE 
segment estimated and a cost allocation 
made. Subsequent to shareholder 
approval of the divestiture, the SUSE 
segment became a discontinued 
operation and the Group is organised 
into a single segment. The principal 
judgement was if the historical cost 
allocation should remain allocated to 
SUSE as the discontinued operation, 
which was only appropriate if the 

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01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Audit committee report Continued

allocated costs were not expected to 
remain in the MFPP cost base when 
SUSE is divested. The committee 
considered a report from management 
that included analysis of these costs 
(predominantly comprised of people, IT 
and property costs) and an assessment 
of whether these could remain stranded 
in MFPP post divestiture. The committee 
agreed with management that it was 
appropriate that no adjustments should 
be made to the historical cost allocation 
to SUSE.

• Review of papers provided by the 

executive and senior management on 
all areas where significant judgements 
have been applied;

• Review of the process of preparation 

and review by the senior management, 
executive directors and the finance 
management team; and

• Review by the audit committee and 

discussions with the external auditors, 
senior management and executive 
directors on the fair, balanced and 
understandable assessment.

Fair, balanced and understandable
The committee is satisfied that the 
Annual Report and Accounts, taken as 
a whole, provide a fair, balanced and 
understandable assessment of the 
Company’s position at 31 October 2018 
and the information necessary for 
shareholders to assess the Company’s 
performance, business model and 
strategy. A paper prepared by 
management provided the committee 
with the supporting detail to ensure that 
it was in a position to report to the board 
that the 2018 Annual Report and 
Accounts, when taken as a whole, were 
fair, balanced and understandable. 

The committee reached the conclusion 
on the basis that the description of the 
business agrees with its own 
understanding, the risks reflect the 
issues that concern it, appropriate weight 
has been given to the ‘good and bad’ 
news, the discussion of performance 
properly reflects the performance of the 
period and there is a clear and well-
articulated link between all areas of 
disclosure.

The committee assisted the board in 
its assessment by considering the 
robustness of the processes used to 
prepare the Group’s Annual Report and 
Accounts 2018. The processes used 
included the following:

Viability statement
The committee assisted the board in 
relation to producing the Group’s viability 
statement. 

At the committee’s meeting in January 
2019, the viability statement was 
considered, including a review of the 
risks and stress testing which had been 
carried out. Following this review the 
committee recommended to the board 
that the viability statement should be 
made for a three-year period and that 
the Group was viable and there was 
negligible risk that it would breach any 
covenants or exceed its borrowing 
facilities. The viability statement can 
be found on page 59.

Assessment of effectiveness of 
external audit
The committee reviewed the 
performance of the external auditors 
taking into account the fulfilment of the 
agreed audit plan and amendments to it, 
input from management, responses to 
questions from the committee and audit 
findings reported to the committee. As 
part of this process the committee 
reviewed the feedback from the ‘Public 
Report on the Audit Quality Inspection 
of KPMG LLP’, issued by the Financial 
Reporting Council (“FRC”) in June 2018. 
Based on this information the committee 
concluded that the external audit 
process was operating effectively and 
KPMG were effective in their role as 
external auditor.

FRC Audit Quality Review
During the period, the committee 
received feedback from the FRC Audit 
Quality Review team following their 
review of PwC’s external audit of 
Micro Focus for the year ended 
30 April 2017. There were no significant 
findings which required either the 
Company or the external auditor, PwC, 
to agree actions. 

Independence and objectivity of 
the external auditors
The committee has developed a robust 
policy designed to ensure that the 
auditor’s objectivity and independence 
is not compromised by it undertaking 
inappropriate non-audit work. This policy 
is reviewed annually and was last 
reviewed in April 2018. 

Auditor objectivity was safeguarded 
by the committee considering several 
factors: the standing and experience of 
the external audit partner; the fact that 
the current external auditors, KPMG, 
were newly appointed in the 18 month 
period; the nature and level of services 
provided by the external auditors and 
confirmation from the external auditors 
that they have complied with relevant 
UK independence standards and fully 
considered any threats and safeguards 
in the performance of non-audit work. 

Non-audit fees 
The committee approves all non-audit 
work commissioned from the external 
auditors. During the 18 months ended 
31 October 2018 the fees paid to the 
auditor were: 

• $14.1m (12 months ended 30 April 
2017: $3.5m) for audit services;

• $1.6m (12 months ended 30 April 2017: 
$2.6m) for audit related assurance and 
other assurance services; 

• $0.4m (12 months ended 30 April 

2017: $0.1m) for services related to 
taxation; and 

• $0.1m (12 months ended 30 April 
2017: $7.5m) for other non-audit 
services. 

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Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

The ratio of audit to non-audit fees for 
the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 
was 1.00:0.14, which the committee 
concluded was an acceptably low level.

The 18 months ended 31 October 2018 
fees represent fees paid to KPMG LLP, 
as the current auditor. The year 
ended 30 April 2017 fees represent 
fees paid to the previous auditor, 
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.

process in the prior year and they require 
that the audit partner rotates every five 
years. The tender process was 
undertaken to recommend an audit firm 
who would provide the highest quality, 
most effective and efficient audits. 
Critical success factors included sector 
experience and knowledge, cultural fit, 
geographical coverage, the audit record 
of the lead partner and firm as well as 
the use of technology. 

Audit-related assurance services in the 
18 months ended 31 October 2018 
relate primarily to the additional audit 
procedures required to be performed 
on the Micro Focus International plc 
financial statements. This included US 
filings and two interim reviews, that were 
required for both six-month periods 
ending 31 October 2017 and 30 April 
2018, given the 18 month period.

Other assurance services in the 18 
months ended 31 October 2018 relate 
primarily to the auditor’s assurance work 
in relation to the SUSE divestiture and 
licence verification compliance work. 

The remaining non-audit services in the 
period included a limited amount of tax 
compliance and tax advice. 

The committee concluded that it was 
in the interests of the Group to use the 
auditors for this non-audit work as they 
were considered to be best placed to 
provide these services given their role 
as external auditors

External audit appointment 
and tender
The committee reviews and makes 
recommendations with regard to the 
appointment and reappointment of 
the external auditors. In making these 
recommendations, the committee 
considers auditor effectiveness and 
independence, partner rotation and 
any other factors that may impact the 
external auditor’s reappointment. The 
current external auditors, KPMG LLP, 
and therefore the lead partner Tudor Aw, 
were newly appointed during the period 
following a competitive audit tender 

The committee is confident that the 
effectiveness and independence of 
the external auditors is not impaired 
in any way.

The committee will continue to assess 
the effectiveness of the independence 
of the external auditors. 

The Statutory Audit Services 
for Large Companies Market 
Investigation (Mandatory Use of 
Competitive Tender Processes and 
Audit Committee Responsibilities) 
Order 2014 – statement of 
compliance 
The Company confirms that it complied 
with the provisions of the Competition 
and Markets Authority’s Order for the 
18 months ended 31 October 2018.

Internal Audit
Following a tender for internal audit 
services in the prior year, led by me in 
parallel with the external audit tender 
process outlined above, the board 
appointed PwC to provide outsourced 
internal audit services from 1 September 
2017. Due to independence 
requirements, Deloitte was appointed 
as the internal auditors of Micro Focus, 
from 1 May 2017 to 31 August 2017, to 
cover the period between the previous 
incumbents, KPMG, and PwC. The 
Group’s Director of Internal Audit and 
Risk provides oversight and co-ordination 
of internal audit. In order to ensure 
independence, internal audit has a direct 
reporting line to the committee and to 
me, its Chairman.

The committee monitored and reviewed 
the scope and results of the internal 
auditor’s activities as well as its 
effectiveness during the period. The 
annual internal audit plan is approved by 
the committee at the beginning of the 
financial period, with any subsequent 
changes to the plan requiring committee 
approval. The nature and scope of the 
internal auditor’s work is reviewed and 
approved and the results of the audits 
are assessed alongside management’s 
responses. Issues with the audit reports 
which are graded as needing 
improvement are considered in detail 
by the committee along with the 
appropriateness of mitigation plans to 
resolve the issues identified.

At each meeting, the committee received 
reports from PwC in order to ascertain 
progress in completing the internal audit 
plan and to review results of the audits.

Effective internal control and risk 
management
Following the annual cycle of work of the 
committee, it concluded that sound risk 
management and internal control 
systems had been maintained during the 
period. With respect to risk management, 
under the risk management framework 
the committee receives and reviews a 
report at each meeting on the principal 
risks across the Group which is 
discussed with senior management. 
The committee was satisfied with the 
process and risks identified. It was also 
satisfied that there was a high level of 
assurance provided by the internal 
auditors, the external reviews conducted 
by KPMG for the two interim periods and 
their full period-end audit, together with 
the input of the Group’s tax advisors, 
Deloitte. In this period Deloitte have also 
provided services relating to integration 
planning following the announcement of 
the HPE Software business transaction 
and divestment planning following the 
announced sale of the SUSE business.

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01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Audit committee report Continued

The board is ultimately responsible for 
establishing and monitoring internal 
control systems throughout the Group 
and reviewing their effectiveness. It 
carries out a review, at least annually, 
covering all material controls including 
financial, operational and compliance 
controls and risk management systems.

It recognises that rigorous systems of 
internal control are critical to the Group’s 
achievement of its business objectives, 
that those systems are designed to 
manage rather than eliminate risk and 
that they can only provide reasonable 
and not absolute assurance against 
material misstatement or loss.

As a US ADR listed entity the Group’s 
internal controls over financial reporting 
are now subject to the requirements of 
Sarbanes Oxley Act 2002 (SOX). Please 
refer to page 41 for the update on the 
Group’s SOX implementation plan. The 
requirements under Sarbanes Oxley 
require a greater degree of formal 
documentation of controls. However, 
the audit committee has reviewed and 
discussed this position with its auditors 
and satisfied itself that the current 
control environment is effective under 
the UK Corporate Governance Code.

There is an on-going internal process 
under the risk management framework 
for identifying, evaluating and managing 
the significant risks faced by the Group 
in association with the work performed 
by the outsourced internal audit function. 
This process has been in place 
throughout the period and up to the date 
of approval of the Annual Report and 
Accounts and it is regularly reviewed by 
the board and accords with the FRC 
Guidance on Audit Committees 
published in April 2016.

As part of the process that the Group 
has in place to review the effectiveness 
of the internal control system, there are 
procedures designed to capture and 
evaluate failings and weaknesses and, 

in the case of those categorised by the 
board as “significant”, procedures exist 
to ensure that necessary action is taken 
to remedy any such failings. The review 
covers all material controls, including 
financial, operational and compliance 
controls.

The committee reports on a regular 
basis to the board on the Group’s 
internal financial control procedures 
and makes recommendations to the 
board in this area.

The external auditors provide a 
supplementary, independent and 
autonomous perspective on those areas 
of the internal control system which they 
assess in the course of their work. Their 
findings are regularly reported to both 
the committee and the board. 

The key elements of the control 
system are:

• The Group operates a structured, 

objectives-driven approach to fulfil its 
core purpose and goals in respect of 
sustained profitability and growth;
• Systems and procedures are in place 
for all major transaction types with 
appropriate authorisation controls;
• All contracts are reviewed. The level 
of review depends on the size and 
complexity of the contracts and 
associated risks. There are formal 
limits above which the review level 
is escalated;

• Reconciliations are performed on a 

timely basis for all major accounts; and
• Research and development and capital 
expenditure programmes are subject 
to formal review and monitoring 
procedures.

The board recognises the need to 
understand and control the variety of 
risks to which the Group is exposed. 
During the period, in order to address 
this on behalf of the board, the 
committee oversaw the executive 
management’s risk management 
activities under the RMF. The executive 

management took responsibility for 
regular evaluation of generic and specific 
risks within the business and the 
implementation of mitigation plans to 
address them.

Risks are assessed with reference to 
the achievement of the Group’s business 
objectives and according to current 
market and economic issues. The 
continuous monitoring of strategic and 
operational risks is the responsibility of 
the board and executive management 
respectively. The risk process has been 
in place for the period under review and 
is up to date at the time of this report. 
Please refer to page 32 for the report 
on principal risks.

The committee considers any significant 
control matters raised in reports from 
management and by the internal and 
external auditors. It then reports its 
findings to the board. Where weaknesses 
are identified, the committee requires 
appropriate action to be taken by 
management and may request internal 
audit to perform a specific review into 
these areas if required.

Financial reporting
In addition to the general internal 
controls and risk management processes 
described above, the Group also has 
specific internal controls and risk 
management systems to govern the 
financial reporting process:

• There are Group policies covering what 
is reported monthly to the board and 
the executive committee. The Group’s 
financial reporting system has been 
guided by the requirement to ensure 
consistency and visibility of 
management information to enable the 
board and the executive team to review 
the Group’s worldwide operations 
effectively. 

• Cash flow forecasts are produced 

monthly by all operations. These are 
reviewed by the Group treasury 
function to ensure effective cash 
management by the Group;

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Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Whistleblowing
The Group has a whistleblowing policy, 
which forms part of the Group’s 
Worldwide Code of Conduct and 
Business Ethics. This allows employees 
to raise issues of concern in relation to 
dishonesty or malpractice on an entirely 
confidential basis. The committee 
receives regular reports as to whether 
any matters have been raised within the 
Group and any applicable details.

Accountability
The board is responsible for the 
preparation of the Annual Report and 
Accounts which, taken as a whole, are 
fair, balanced and understandable and 
provide the information necessary for 
shareholders to assess the Company’s 
performance, business model and 
strategy. As set out in the Directors’ 
report, the directors consider that the 
Company’s business is a going concern.

Richard Atkins
Chairman, Audit committee
20 February 2019 

• Management representations covering 
compliance with Group policies and the 
accuracy of financial information are 
collected on a quarterly basis; 

• All the major trading entities completed 
a self-assessment on the effectiveness 
of their internal control environment;
• The consolidation process entails the 
combining and adjusting of financial 
information contained in the individual 
financial statements of the Company 
and its subsidiary undertakings in order 
to prepare consolidated Annual Report 
and Accounts that present financial 
information for the Group as a single 
economic entity. The Group accounting 
policies, sets out the basis of 
preparation and consolidation, including 
the elimination of inter-company 
transactions, balances and unrealised 
gains between Group companies;

• Financial information from subsidiaries 
is reviewed for accuracy by internal 
review and externally audited where 
required; and

• The consolidated financial statements 

are completed in accordance with 
International Financial Reporting 
Standards as issued by the 
International Accounting Standards 
Board (“IASB”) and in conformity with 
IFRS as adopted by the European 
Union (collectively “IFRS”), IFRS 
Interpretations committee, the 
Companies Act 2006 and Article 4 
of the IAS Regulation.

The board, with advice from the 
committee, is satisfied that an effective 
system of internal control and risk 
management processes are in place 
which enable the Company to identify, 
evaluate and manage key risks and 
which accord with the FRC Guidance 
on Audit Committees published in April 
2016. These processes have been in 
place since the start of the financial 
period up to the date of approval of the 
Annual Report and Accounts. Further 
details of the risks faced by the Group 
are set out on pages 32 to 41.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

87

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Nomination committee report

Nomination committee

Members
Karen Slatford (Chair)
Richard Atkins 
Amanda Brown (resigned 21 September 2017)
Darren Roos (appointed 21 September 2017)
Lawton Fitt (appointed 17 October 2017)

Number of 
eligible meetings 
during the 
18 months ended 
31 October 2018

Number of  
meetings  
attended

6 
6
2
4
4

6
6
2
4
4

Composition of the committee
Committee membership comprises 
Karen Slatford (committee Chair), 
Richard Atkins, Darren Roos and Lawton 
Fitt. The committee met six times during 
the 18 months ended 31 October 2018. 
The committee will meet at least twice 
during the coming financial year. 
Changes to committee membership 
and the number of committee meetings 
attended by each member in the 18 
months ended 31 October 2018 was 
as follows:

Role and responsibilities
The committee is responsible to the 
board for proposing candidates to the 
board, having regard to the balance and 
structure of the board and takes into 
consideration the benefits of diversity 
in terms of gender, ethnicity, religion, 
disability, age and sexual orientation. The 
committee uses consultants to identify 
suitable candidates and diversity is 
included in the criteria set for selecting 
appropriate candidates.

The terms of reference of the committee 
include, among other matters, the 
following responsibilities:

• To review the structure, size and 
composition (including the skills, 
knowledge, experience and diversity) 
required of the board and make 
recommendations to the board with 
regard to any changes;

• To identify and nominate, for the 

approval of the board, candidates to 
fill board vacancies as and when 
they arise;

• To give full consideration to succession 
planning for directors and other senior 
executives;

• To keep under review the leadership 

needs of the Group, both executive and 
non-executive, with a view to ensuring 
the continued ability of the Group to 
compete effectively in the marketplace; 
and

• To review annually the time required 

from non-executives, evaluating 
whether they are spending enough 
time to fulfil their duties.

The committee’s terms of reference can 
be found on the Company’s website: 
www.microfocus.com.

Diversity
The board has considered diversity in 
broader terms than just gender and 
believes it is also important to reach the 
correct balance of skills, knowledge, 
experience and independence on the 
board. During the 18 months ended 
31 October 2018, the committee has 
been reviewing its diversity policy to 
include a strategy for equal opportunity 
and ethnicity, which can be applied 
during 2019 in order to continue to 
attract and retain the most talented 
people who can deliver outstanding 
performance for the Group. All board 
appointments are made on merit with the 
aim of achieving a correct balance. The 
board has now moved to a composition 
where in excess of 25% of members 
are female while maintaining the above 
principle of a correct balance not being 
compromised. The Group has formal 
policies in place to promote equality 
of opportunity across the whole 
organisation, regardless of gender, 
ethnicity, religion, disability, age or 
sexual orientation. 

Following the changes to the board 
membership during the period ended 
31 October 2018, the board currently 
comprises five men (56%) 
(30 April 2017: 66.67%) and four 
women (44%) (30 April 2017: 33.33%). 
The Company Secretary is also a 
woman. As opportunities arise the board 
will seek to increase the diversity on the 
board consistent with the above policy. 
13.2% of Micro Focus’ senior 
management is now female. During the 
year ended 31 October 2019, the 
committee will review how sufficient 
consideration can be given to the ethnic 
origin of future board candidates 

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Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

• John Schultz resigned as an HPE 

nominated non-executive director on 
20 December 2017;

• Chris Kennedy was appointed as Chief 
Financial Officer and joined the board 
on 8 January 2018;

• Mike Phillips resigned as Chief 

Financial Officer on 8 January 2018 
and stepped down from the board on 
31 January 2018;

• Chris Hsu resigned as Chief Executive 
Officer and Stephen Murdoch was 
appointed as Chief Executive Officer 
on 19 March 2018; 

• Nils Brauckmann resigned from the 

board on 11 July 2018 (but continued 
as Chief Executive Officer – SUSE); 
and

• Chris Kennedy is expected to resign 
as Chief Financial Officer and Brian 
McArthur-Muscroft is expected to be 
appointed as Chief Financial Officer 
in February 2019.

The process for these appointments 
was led by the senior independent 
non-executive director and committee 
Chair, Karen Slatford and was formal, 
rigorous and transparent. For the 
appointment of Brian McArthur-
Muscroft, a sub-committee, comprising 
of Kevin Loosemore, Richard Atkins and 
Stephen Murdoch was appointed to 
review candidates.

Karen Slatford
Chair, Nomination committee
20 February 2019

What the committee did during the 
18 months ended 31 October 2018

Key activities
• Reviewed and agreed the new senior 

management team following the 
acquisition of the HPE Software 
business;

• Reviewed and recommended the 

appointment of two Chief Executive 
Officers;

• Reviewed and recommended the 

appointment of two Chief Financial 
Officers;

• Reviewed and recommended the 

appointment of new non-executive 
directors;

• Reviewed the committee’s membership 

and performance;

• Reviewed board and senior executive 

succession planning and appointments;

• Reviewed the committee’s terms of 

reference;

• Reviewed and developed a strategy 

for gender and ethnicity;

• Reviewed the board composition in 
preparation for the proposed sale of 
the SUSE business; and

• Reviewed the time required from 

non-executive directors.

Board changes
During the 18 months ended 31 October 
2018 there have been several changes 
to the board:

• Darren Roos and Silke Scheiber were 
appointed as non-executive directors 
on 15 May 2017;

• Stephen Murdoch resigned from the 
board on 1 September 2017 to take 
up the role of Chief Operating Officer;

• Chris Hsu was appointed Chief 

Executive Officer and John Schultz 
was appointed as a non-executive 
director on 1 September 2017;
• Lawton Fitt was appointed as a 

non-executive director on 17 October 
2017;

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

89

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Directors’ Remuneration report

Annual Statement from the Chair of the Remuneration 
Committee 

Dear Shareholders
On behalf of the board, I am pleased to present our Directors’ 
Remuneration report, which covers the 18 months ended 31 October 
2018. The 18 month timeframe results from the change to our year-end 
from April to October following the HPE Software business acquisition, 
which completed on 1 September 2017. 

In addition to this statement, the Directors’ Remuneration report is 
presented in two further sections: 

1. Directors’ Remuneration Policy
The existing policy was approved by shareholders at the 2017 AGM on 
4 September 2017 with 86.46% shareholders’ support and can be 
found on our website at www.investors/microfocus.com. No changes are 
being made to the policy in this period. A full review of our remuneration 
strategy will be undertaken in 2019 to take account of the enlarged and 
more globally focused business as well as the latest corporate governance 
codes and best practice. The new policy will be put to shareholders for 
approval at the 2020 AGM. The policy section provides an overview of 
our remuneration philosophy and a summary of the main elements of 
the package for executive directors. 

2. Annual Report on Remuneration
The Annual Report on Remuneration provides details of the amounts 
earned in respect of the full 18 month period ended 31 October 2018 
and how the Remuneration Policy will be implemented for the year ending 
31 October 2019. and will be subject to an advisory vote at the AGM to 
be held on 29 March 2019. To aid comparison with the 12 months ended 
30 April 2017, we have also included figures for the 12 month period 
ended 31 October 2018 where relevant. 

The year to 31 October 2018 was a challenging period for Micro Focus 
and you will see from the statutory single figure table that the total 
Executive Directors compensation for the year reduced by around 25%. 
Against a backdrop of significant operational and management change, 
Adjusted EBITDA increased by 9.2% in the year and Diluted Adjusted 
EPS in the three years to 30 April 2018 grew 52% from 123.43 cents 
to 187.74 cents.

The total figure for remuneration, is masked by the ASG award made at 
the time of The Attachmate Group (“TAG”) acquisition in 2014. This 
acquisition increased shareholder returns by over £4bn. As a result the 
TAG ASG vested for executives on 1 November 2017. Executives were 
restricted from exercising the ASG for 12 months so have experienced 
the full impact of the challenging year.

There are three important elements to the 2018 Annual Report on 
Remuneration, which shareholders should note and consider:

1.   The Additional Share Grants relating to The Attachmate Group (“TAG”) 

acquisition, which vested on 1 November 2017 reflects the Total 
Shareholder Return (“TSR”) performance for the three year period 
ended 31 October 2017. 

2.   The Additional Share Grants relating to the HPE Software business 
acquisition, which were replaced to align the vesting date with the 
2020 value creation plan.

3.   Performance for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 and incentive 

outcomes relating to that financial period.

90

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Additional Share Grants relating to the TAG acquisition
Additional Share Grants (“ASGs”) were introduced into the Micro Focus 
remuneration policy as part of the TAG acquisition in 2014 and have been 
a key part of the reward strategy to align key executives’ rewards to the 
value created for shareholders following major transformational acquisitions. 
Shareholders have been supportive of the ASG programme, with its 
extremely challenging performance conditions aligned to delivering 
exceptional shareholder returns. The 2015 Remuneration report, which 
included the TAG ASG awards made on completion, gained 91.75% 
support and 86.46% of shareholders supported the 2017 Remuneration 
Policy, which included the proposal to award a second tranche of ASGs 
following completion of the HPE Software business acquisition in 
September 2017. To fully vest, the TAG ASGs required at least £1.87bn of 
additional value to be delivered to shareholders from the reference price 
of £8.19425, whilst the HPE Software ASGs require £7.9bn of additional 
value to be delivered from the reference price of £18.17¾.

The TAG ASGs vested in full on 1 November 2017 as a result of the 
£4.5bn of value delivered to shareholders since signing of the heads of 
terms agreement in June 2014, £2.5bn of which was delivered prior to 
the announcement of the HPE Software business acquisition in August 
2016. This significantly exceeded the stretch target of £1.9bn and 
equates to a shareholder return of 250%. Executives were restricted 
from realising the gains from these TAG ASG awards for 12 months. This 
is not reflected in the remuneration disclosed in the statutory single figure 
table, which is based on the share price at vesting of £26.64 and results 
in figures of between £10.8m and £25.3m. Executives, however, did not 
receive this value; the one-year holding period ensured executives 
experienced the same impact of the share price fall as shareholders, 
with the value of these awards more than halving to between £4.9m and 
£11.5m at the end of the financial year. To better demonstrate the value 
delivered to executives, on page 97 we have presented remuneration 
based on the year-end share price in addition to the statutory disclosures.

Additional Share Grants relating to the acquisition of the HPE 
Software business
A review of the ASGs granted at the time of the HPE Software business 
acquisition was undertaken in September 2018 following the 
announcement of the sale of SUSE to EQT Partners and shareholder 
feedback regarding concerns at the significant loss of retention value for 
key executives from the fall in share price after the March 2018 trading 
update. The Remuneration committee wanted to ensure that executives 
remained incentivised to deliver significant value from the HPE Software 
transaction and align reward to the delivery of the 2020 business plan. 
As a result of this review the performance period is now September 2017 
to September 2020 which is the three years post completion of the 
HPE Software business transaction; the challenging 50% to 100% 
shareholder return performance measure has been retained, as has 
the reference share price of £18.17¾ so there is no change to the 
shareholder value required in order to vest. To fully vest, more than 
£9.2bn of additional shareholder value needs to be created between 
September 2018 and September 2020, equivalent to a share price of 
over £36 (less any dividends). To put this into context the market 
capitalisation of Micro Focus at the end of September 2018 was £6.2bn.

Future ASG Awards
The ASG programme has been an important and influential part of the 
Micro Focus reward strategy, enabling the Company to recruit and retain 
executives in the highly competitive global software sector. The 
committee is, however, aware of the distorting impact these awards can 
have, especially after a period of exceptional share price growth as has 
been the case with the TAG ASGs. We are not planning on making future 
ASG awards at this time and will undertake a full review of our reward 
strategy in 2019 to ensure our remuneration remains competitive in the 
global software market.

Shareholder Engagement
We remain committed to maintaining an open and transparent engagement 
with our investors. We believe that a clear objective of the Directors’ 
Remuneration Report is to communicate clearly how much our executive 
directors are earning and how this is clearly linked to performance. 
Members of the remuneration committee are engaged in an on-going 
dialogue with corporate governance advisory agencies and investors in 
order to better understand their views on Micro Focus’ approach to 
executive remuneration, which are then taken into account when 
determining the remuneration arrangements for the executive directors.

We believe we have demonstrated the strong link between our policy and 
value creation over the past seven and a half years; therefore, I hope to 
receive your support at our upcoming AGM. 

Amanda Brown
Chair of the Remuneration Committee
20 February 2019

FY18 Performance and incentive outcomes relating to that 
financial period 
2017 was another transformational year for Micro Focus following the 
completion of the HPE Software business acquisition on 1 September 
2017. The Enlarged Group now has over 14,000 employees across 43 
countries with 29% being US based. There have been a number of 
changes to the board, to better align to the needs of a global software 
company with a large US presence. The remuneration consequences of 
the changes to the board were entirely in line with the policy approved 
by shareholders and are set out in detail in the Annual Report on 
Remuneration.

Despite a challenging start to the integration of the HPE Software 
business, the last six months has seen great progress being made. 
Revenue performance has stabilised and the continued expansion of our 
profit margin are encouraging signs of progress. This is evidenced by the 
9.2% increase in Adjusted EBITDA in the 12 months ended 31 October 
2018, the improvement in Adjusted EBITDA margin from 33.1% to 37.7% 
and the 52% improvement in Diluted Adjusted EPS in the three years to 
April 2018 from 123.43 cents to 187.74 cents. 

Annual bonuses for the 12 months ended 31 October 2018 were paid 
at 76% of the maximum opportunity as a result of growth in Adjusted 
EBITDA of 7.6% (after adjusting for currency movements during this 
period). No bonus was paid in respect of the six month transition period 
ending 31 October 2017, giving a total bonus over the 18 month period of 
around half the maximum opportunity. The sustained strong performance 
of the Company over the three-years to 30 April 2018, resulting in a 52% 
increase in Diluted Adjusted EPS over the three years to April 2018, has 
seen all long-term incentive plan (“LTIP”) awards where the performance 
period ended during the 18 month period vest in full. During the 18 month 
period, executive directors received the equivalent of a single year’s 
LTIP award.

Further details are set out in the main section of the Remuneration report.

Application of policy in FY19
We have provided full details on the implementation of our policy for 
FY19, on page 92, which will consist of the following remuneration 
elements linked to generation and delivery of real returns to shareholders:

1.  Base salary 
2.  Pension
3.  Annual bonus
4.  Long-term incentive

The wider Company
As part of its role, the committee monitors the remuneration 
arrangements across the wider Company as an integral part of the strong 
performance culture driving our business. As well as all employees being 
eligible to participate in our all-employee share plans, all non-commission 
employees participate in a bonus scheme, which operates on the same 
metrics for all levels in the Company. Additionally around 450 of our 
senior managers and key employees receive LTIP awards subject to the 
same performance metrics that apply to executive directors. The vast 
majority of the Company’s pension plans are defined contribution 
arrangements or cash allowances in lieu of pension, with only a few small 
legacy defined benefit arrangements inherited from previous acquisitions. 
There is no defined benefit obligation in relation to current executive 
directors who receive a cash allowance only.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

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01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Directors’ Remuneration report Continued 

Compliance statement

This Directors’ Remuneration report has been prepared on behalf of 
the board by the committee and complies with the provisions of the 
Companies Act 2006 and Schedule 8 of The Large and Medium-sized 
Companies and Groups (Accounts and Reports) (Amendment) 
Regulations 2013. The report has been prepared in line with the 
recommendations of the UK Corporate Governance Code and the 
requirements of the UKLA Listing Rules.

The Companies Act 2006 requires the auditors to report to the Company’s 
members on the “auditable part” of the Directors’ Remuneration report 
and to state whether in their opinion that part of the report has been 
properly prepared in accordance with the Companies Act 2006. The 
report has therefore been divided into separate sections for audited and 
unaudited information.

Directors’ Remuneration Policy
The Remuneration Policy for executive directors was set out in the 2017 
Annual Report and approved by shareholders at the 2017 Annual General 
Meeting (“AGM”) on 4 September 2017. The policy is available to view at 
www.microfocus.com. No changes are being proposed to the policy for 
this period. A formal review of the policy will be undertaken in 2019 to 
take account of the Enlarged Group having a more global focus and the 
latest corporate governance code. The new policy will be put to 
shareholders for approval at the 2020 AGM. 

The Company’s policy on the remuneration of executive directors and 
their direct reports is established by the committee and approved by the 
board. The individual remuneration package of each executive director 
is determined by the committee. No executive director or employee 
participates in discussions relating to the setting of their own 
remuneration.

The objective of the Group’s remuneration policies is that all employees, 
including executive directors, should receive appropriate remuneration 
for their performance, responsibility, skills and experience. Remuneration 
packages are designed to enable the Group to attract and retain key 
employees by ensuring they are remunerated appropriately and 
competitively and that they are motivated to achieve the highest level 
of Group performance in line with the best interests of shareholders. 

Policies on remuneration take account of the pay structure, employment 
conditions and relativities within the Group and also the industry sector. 
They also take into consideration that individuals may have different levels 
of experience, capability, and market demand for their services. To 
determine the elements and level of remuneration appropriate to each 
executive director, the committee considers benchmark remuneration 
data for selected comparable technology companies as well as a broader 
group of companies of a similar size to the Company.

A significant proportion of remuneration is performance-related, with 
challenging performance conditions linked to the Company’s financial and 
operational strategy, to support the Company’s core objectives to deliver 
shareholder returns of 15% to 20% per annum over the long-term. The 
committee reviews the performance conditions annually to ensure that 
they remain demanding and appropriate. There are no non-financial 
targets and all targets are published. 

In line with the Investment Association’s guidelines on responsible 
investment disclosure, the committee will ensure that the incentive 
structure for executive directors and senior management will not raise 
environmental, social or governance (“ESG”) risks by inadvertently 
motivating irresponsible behaviour. More generally, with regard to the 
overall remuneration structure, there is no restriction on the committee 
that prevents it from taking into account corporate governance on 
ESG matters.

The table below summarises the key elements of the package for 
executive directors.

Element of Remuneration
Fixed

Base salary

Link to Strategy
Attract and retain key talent to 
deliver the agreed strategy

Benefits

Pension

Variable

Annual bonus

Performance measures aligned to 
key financial metrics

Long-term incentives

Normally awards vest after three years 
to align to longer-term performance

Additional Share Grants

Awards made within 18 months 
of completion of major acquisitions 
with stretching total shareholder 
return targets over three year period

Framework
Reviewed annually to ensure competitive, 
taking into account market positioning 
and increases generally within the Group

Competitive package of benefits 
including car allowance and health plan

Up to a maximum of 20% of base 
salary either as a pension contribution 
or cash allowance

Maximum opportunity of 150% base 
salary for achieving 10% growth in 
Adjusted EBITDA

Annual grants of up to 200% of base 
salary with a performance measure 
based on growth in aggregate EPS of 
between 3% p.a. and 9% p.a. above RPI

Awards made following the HPE 
Software business acquisition vesting 
1 September 2020 subject to three year 
shareholder return of 50% to 100%. A 
further one year holding period is applied 

Shareholding requirement

Directly aligns executive directors’ 
interests with those of shareholders

200% of base salary

92

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Consideration of employment conditions elsewhere 
in the Group
The remuneration policy for other employees is based on broadly 
consistent principles to those for executive directors. Salary reviews 
take into account Group performance, local pay and market conditions 
and salary levels for similar roles in comparable companies. All non-
commissioned employees participate in a bonus scheme which operates 
on the same metrics for all levels in the Company from entry level 
employees to executive directors.

Around 450 of our senior managers and other key employees also 
receive annual LTIP awards. Performance conditions are consistent for all 
participants, while award sizes vary by individual. All employees in the UK 
and Ireland are eligible to participate in the Sharesave plan on the same 
terms. Employees in the US and other countries where the Company has 
a major presence are eligible to participate in the Company’s Employee 
Share Purchase Plan (“ESPP”) on the same terms. The ESPP has been 
rolled out to 34 countries so far with a further nine becoming eligible at 
the next launch in 2019. 

All of our employees in the US, UK Ireland and India are able to 
participate in our Flexible Benefits programme. Employees in other 
regions participate in similar programmes or receive a competitive 
package of benefits in line with local market practice.

Additional Share Grants (“AGSs”) in relation to the 2017 acquisition of the 
HPE Software business were approved by shareholders at the 2017 
AGM and were made to a small number of key executives critical to the 
successful integration and successful delivery of the 2020 business plan. 

Consultation with employees
Although the committee does not consult directly with employees on the 
Directors’ Remuneration Policy, the committee does consider general 
basic salary increases, the benchmarking of employee compensation and 
benefits, remuneration arrangements and employment conditions for the 
broader employee population when determining Remuneration Policy for 
the executive directors. 

Performance measures and targets
Following completion of the HPE Software business acquisition, the 
board reviewed and simplified the different measures used to track 
business performance, and presented the outcome of this review as part 

of the Interim Results for the six month period ended 31 October 2017. 
Underlying Adjusted EBITDA, which is used in our corporate bonus plans, 
was viewed as the most appropriate measure going forward. The basis 
of calculation remains unchanged, but is now referred to simply as 
Adjusted EBITDA. 

The committee continues to believe that a combination of Adjusted 
EBITDA, Revenue Growth, Cash Flow, EPS and Total Shareholder Return 
remain the most appropriate measures of long-term performance of the 
Company. The performance measures used for annual bonuses are 
selected annually to help the Group achieve its core objective. The annual 
bonus plan is currently linked to growth in Adjusted EBITDA. Vesting of 
annual LTIP awards is currently linked to growth in EPS as the committee 
believes that this aligns with the Company’s focus on shareholder value. 
ASG awards are used in exceptional circumstances following 
transformational acquisitions with stretching performance conditions 
aligned to value created for shareholders. The committee believes that a 
combination of the measures under our incentive plans provides a strong 
line of sight for the executives and supports the long-term strategy.

Performance targets are set to be stretching and achievable, taking into 
account the Group’s strategic priorities and the economic environment in 
which the Group operates. 

Annual Report on Remuneration

The following section provides the details of how the Remuneration 
Policy was implemented during the 18 months ended 31 October 2018. 
To assist with a like for like comparison with the 12 months ended 
30 April 2017, we have also shown the details for the 12 months ended 
31 October 2018, where relevant. 

Non-executive directors’ terms of appointment
The non-executive directors’ terms of appointment are recorded in letters 
of appointment. The required notice from the Company is 90 days in all 
cases. The non-executive directors are not entitled to any compensation 
for loss of office and stand for election or re-election as appropriate at 
each AGM. Details of the letters of appointment of each non-executive 
director who has served as a director of the Company at any time during 
the 18 month period are set out below:

Non-executive director
Karen Slatford
Amanda Brown
Richard Atkins
Silke Scheiber
Darren Roos
Lawton Fitt
John Schultz1

Appointment Date
5 July 2010
1 July 2016
16 April 2014
15 May 2017
15 May 2017
17 October 2017
1 September 2017

Re-appointment date
5 July 2016

16 April 2017

Expiration date
5 July 2019
1 July 2019
16 April 2020
15 May 2020
15 May 2020
17 October 2020
1 September 2020

1  John Schultz was appointed to the board on 1 September 2017 in a non-remunerated role and resigned on 20 December 2017.

All appointments of non-executive directors are subject to election by shareholders at the first AGM of the Company after appointment and to 
re-election on an annual basis thereafter. All the directors will be offering themselves for election or re-election at the 2019 AGM.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

93

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Directors’ Remuneration report Continued 

Single figure for total remuneration of non-executive directors (audited)
A number of changes were made to the non-executive director appointments as a result of the acquisition of the HPE Software business on 
1 September 2017. The fee levels were also revised to account for the enlarged size and global focus of the Group as set out in last year’s report. 

The following table sets outs the single figure for total remuneration of non-executive directors for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 and the 
12 months ended 30 April 2017, together with the 12 months ended 31 October 2018 to enable a better like for like comparison.

Non-executive directors

Karen Slatford

Richard Atkins

Amanda Brown1

Silke Scheiber2

Darren Roos3

Lawton Fitt4

Steve Schuckenbrock5

Tom Virden5

John Schultz6

Total

Fees

18 months 
£’000
180

12 months 
£’000
120
103

135

135

103

103

83

–

–

–

739

90
78

90
68

70
–

70
–

80
–

–
71

–
62

–
–

520
382

2018
2017

2018
2017

2018
2017

2018
2017

2018
2017

2018
2017

2018
2017

2018
2017

2018
2017

2018
2017

1  Amanda Brown’s fees were paid direct to her employer.
2  Silke Scheiber joined the board on 15 May 2017.
3  Daren Roos joined the board on 15 May 2017.
4  Lawton Fitt joined the board on 17 October 2017 and receives an additional fee of £10,000 per annum due to her SEC and SOX experience.
5  Steve Schuckenbrock and Tom Virden resigned on 25 April 2017.
6  John Schultz joined the board on 1 September 2017 in a non-remunerated role and resigned on 20 December 2017.

Implementation of non-executive director remuneration for the year ending 31 October 2019
The approach to non-executive directors’ fees is set out in the table below:

Independent non-executive director base fee
Additional fee for chairing a committee
Fee for the SID (including chairing committees)

£70,000 p.a.
£20,000 p.a.
£120,000 p.a.

94

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Remuneration committee membership during the 18 month period to 31 October 2018
During the 18 month period to 31 October 2018, the committee comprised only of independent non-executive directors. The committee met 13 times 
during the period under review. The number of committee meetings attended by each director in the period was as follows:

Committee member
Amanda Brown (Chair) 
Karen Slatford
Richard Atkins1
Silke Scheiber2
Darren Roos2

1  Richard Atkins resigned from the committee on 21 September 2017.
2  Silke Scheiber and Darren Roos joined the committee on 21 September 2017.

Held
13
13
5
8
8

Number of  
meetings  
attended
13
12
4
7
6

The committee invited the Executive Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, 
Chief Financial Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer and Reward 
Director during the period to provide views and advice on specific 
questions raised by the committee and on matters relating to the 
performance and remuneration of senior managers. They did not 
participate in discussions relating to their own remuneration. The Company 
Secretary attended each meeting as secretary to the committee.

Terms of reference
The committee is responsible for reviewing the remuneration 
arrangements for executive directors and for providing general guidance 
on aspects of Remuneration Policy throughout the Group. Its terms of 
reference include the following:

Agenda during the 18 month period to 31 October 2018
The key activities of the committee were as follows:

• Approval of the Directors’ Remuneration report for the year ended 

30 April 2017;

• Approval of the packages of executive directors joining and leaving 

the board;

• Reviewed the reward strategy of the enlarged group following the 

acquisition of the HPE Software business, including the award of LTIPs 
and ASGs post completion and the arrangements for dealing with the 
US excise tax implications.

• Reviewed the salaries of the executive directors and the Chief Executive 

Officer’s direct reports;

• Reviewed bonus payments, LTIPs and TAG ASGs vesting against 

• Determine and agree with the board the framework or broad policy for 

targets;

the remuneration of the Company’s Chairman, CEO and other executive 
directors, the Company Secretary and other members of the executive 
management team (as appointed from time to time);

• Conducted annual review and ratification of remuneration packages for 

executive directors and senior executives;

• Considered current guidelines on executive compensation from advisory 

• Determine the total individual remuneration package of each executive 

bodies’ and institutional investors; 

director and other senior executives including bonuses, incentive 
payments, share options and any other share awards;

• Established targets for annual bonuses for the financial year ending 

31 October 2019;

• Determine the policy for, and scope of, pension arrangements for each 

• Reviewed the impact of the sale of SUSE on LTIPs and ASGs for those 

executive director and other senior executives;

affected;

• Approve the framework of salaries for senior managers, determine 
targets for any performance-related pay schemes operated by the 
Company and approve the total annual payments;

• Approved the surrender and replacement of ASGs awarded to executive 
directors following the HPE Software business acquisition to align the 
performance period to the three years post completion; 

• Review the design of all share incentive plans for approval by the board 

• Engaged with major shareholders and advisory bodies to seek their 

and shareholders;

• Oversee any major changes in employee benefit structures throughout 

the Company or Group; and

views following publication of the 2017 Directors’ Remuneration report 
and following publication of the SUSE circular;

• Restructured the incentive arrangements for those below the board to 

• Review the on-going appropriateness and relevance of the 

better align to the delivery of the 2020 business plan; and

Remuneration Policy.

• Reviewed the performance and terms of reference of the committee.

The full terms of reference of the committee are available from the 
Company Secretary and are on the Company’s website 
http://investors.microfocus.com/corporate-governance. These will be 
reviewed as part of the wider policy review to take account of the new 
corporate governance code.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

95

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Directors’ Remuneration report Continued 

External advisors
The committee and management seek advice on remuneration and 
legal matters from a number of firms as appropriate, including Deloitte, 
PwC and Travers Smith. Deloitte and PwC also provide other services 
to management including tax, accounting and consulting services. 

The committee has direct access to these advisors who attend 
committee meetings as required. The committee has chosen not to 
appoint separate independent advisors and is satisfied that the advice it 
receives is objective and independent and is not conflicted by the advisors 
also working with the management. The total fees (excluding VAT) for the 
18 month period relating to remuneration advice to the committee were 
£4,000 (Deloitte) and £31,144 (PwC).

Executive director remuneration for FY18
Vesting of TAG ASGs
A large part of the single figure remuneration for the 18 month period 
ended 31 October 2018 is driven off the value of the TAG ASGs, which 
were granted in November 2014 following TAG acquisition and approved 
by shareholders. The TAG ASGs vested in full on 1 November 2017 as a 
result of the 221% shareholder return achieved (allowing for averaging) 
over the period from the signing of the heads of terms agreement in June 
2014, when the share price was around £8. The chart below shows that 
a £310 investment in June 2014 would have grown to £1,079 (with 
dividends reinvested) by the time the TAG ASGs vested, equating to 3.5 
times the initial investment, and demonstrates the outstanding returns 
delivered to shareholders during the three year performance period. 
Shareholders have received around £4.5bn of additional value between 
June 2014 and November 2017, which significantly exceeded the stretch 
target for full vesting of £1.9bn (equating to a 100% shareholder return 
from the reference price of £8.19425 set at the time of signing the heads 
of terms agreement).

Historical TSR performance (TAG ASG performance period)
Growth in the value of a hypothetical £100 holding over the period from 30 April 2009

The TAG ASGs vested at a share price of £26.64 but with a one year 
holding period, which restricted executives from realising the gains for 
12 months. Consequently, none were exercised by the executive directors 
and all were still outstanding at 31 October 2018 when the share price 
had fallen to £12.18½ following the announcements made in March 
2018. This is not reflected in the remuneration disclosed in the statutory 
single figure table, which is based on the share price at vesting. The table 
below shows the value of the TAG ASG shares at the date of award, at 
vesting and at 31 October 2018.

Executive director

ASG shares 
awarded and 
vesting

Kevin Loosemore
Stephen Murdoch
Mike Phillips
Nils Brauckmann

947,140
405,917
676,529
405,917

At date of 
award on 
20 November 
2014 at 
£10.60
£’000

At date of 
vesting on 
1 November 
2017 at 
£26.64
£’000

 At period  
end of 
31 October 
2018 at 
£12.18½
£’000

£’000
10,040
4,303
7,171
4,303

£’000
25,232
10,814
18,023
10,814

£’000
11,541
4,946
8,244
4,946

The total vesting value of these awards (£64.9m) represents under 1.5% 
of the £4.5bn of additional value delivered to shareholders. 

This shows that, as a result of the one year holding period, the value of 
directors TAG ASGs awards have more than halved since vesting as a 
result of the share price fall in 2018. The committee believes that valuing 
the TAG ASGs by reference to the share price at the end of the financial 
period gives a better representation of the value delivered to the 
executives. A similar approach has been used to value the LTIPs where 
the performance period ended during the 18 months ended 31 October 
2018 as none of these were exercised and all were still outstanding at the 
end of the period.

£1,100

£1,000

£900

£800

£700

£600

£500

£400

£300

£200

£100

TAG ASG Performance Period

£1,079

3.5x

£310

£0

30 April
2009

30 April
2010

30 April
2011

30 April
2012

30 April
2013

30 April
2014

30 April
2015

30 April
2016

30 April
2017

Micro Focus International
FTSE 250 Index
FTSE 100 Index
FTSE All-Share Software and Computer Services Index

31 October
2017

96

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Total remuneration of executive directors
The table below shows the total remuneration of executive directors using the approach outlined above for the 18 month financial period 
ended 31 October 2018 and the previous 12 month financial year ended 30 April 2017 and is a good representation of the value to executive 
directors of the TAG ASGs when they were fully vested and released. It also shows the 12 months ended 31 October 2018 to enable comparison 
against the 2017 financial year. For those directors who were not on the board for the whole of the relevant performance period, the value of LTIPs 
and TAG ASGs have been pro-rated accordingly. 

The audited statutory table for the single figure for total remuneration of executive directors is shown on page 106.

Note: FY18 Bonus figures need to be added when finalised and the final figures will need to be rounded to ensure figures add to totals.

Executive directors
Kevin Loosemore

Chris Hsu7

Stephen Murdoch10

Chris Kennedy11

Mike Phillips12

Nils Brauckmann13

Total

Base Salary 
and Fees1
£’000
750
750
1,125

–
288
413

500
497
668

–
487
487

470
120
361

423
339
583

Benefits in 
Kind2
£’000
32
33
47

–
11
4,4668

18
11
17

–
12
12

19
4
13

12
7
13

Annual 
Bonus3
£’000
506
855
855

–
–
739

338
569
569

–
–
–

317
137
137

285
387
387

2,143
2,481
3,637

81
78
4,568

1,446
1,948
2,021

2017 (12 months)
2018 (12 months)
2018 (18 months)

2017 (12 months)
2018 (12 months)
2018 (18 months)

2017 (12 months)
2018 (12 months)
2018 (18 months)

2017 (12 months)
2018 (12 months)
2018 (18 months)

2017 (12 months)
2018 (12 months)
2018 (18 months)

2017 (12 months)
2018 (12 months)
2018 (18 months)

2017 (12 months)
2018 (12 months)
2018 (18 months)

LTIPs and ASGs

LTIPs4
£’000
2,788
1,356
1,356

–
–
–

1,365
489
489

–
–
–

1,493
585
585

68414
400
400

6,330
2,830
2,830

ASG5
£’000
–
–
11,541

–
–
–

–
–
2,657

–
–
–

–
–
8,244

–
–
2,937

–
–
25,379

Total
£’000
2,788
1,356
12,897

–
–
–

1,365
489
3,146

–
–
–

1,493
585
8,829

684
400
3,337

6,330
2,830
28,209

Pension6
£’000
150
150
225

–
–
–

75
75
100

–
97
97

71
18
54

63
51
87

359
391
563

Total
£’000
4,226
3,144
15,149

–
299
4,952

2,296
1,641
4,500

–
596
596

2,370
864
9,394

1,467
1,184
4,407

10,359
7,728
38,998

1   Base Salary and Fees: the amount earned during the period in respect of service as a director.
2   Benefits in Kind: including car, private medical insurance, permanent health insurance, life insurance and financial and tax advice for a US director.
3    Annual Bonus: payment for performance during the period in respect of service as a director. One-third of the annual bonus is deferred into shares for three years with the exception 

4 

5 

of the Executive Chairman and the bonus to Chris Hsu, which was based on the performance of the HPE Software business.
 LTIPs (excluding ASGs): the value of LTIP awards (excluding those awards under the ASG programme) which vest based on performance conditions ending during the relevant period, 
pro-rated to reflect the period as a director during the relevant three year performance period. The 2018 figures are based on the share price at the end of the period (£12.18½) to 
reflect that none of them were exercised during the period and were still outstanding as at 31 October 2018. The 2017 figures are based on the share price at vesting of £24.20 
(27 June 2017) and £25.18 (16 December 2017). 
 ASG: the value of the ASG award made in November 2014 following the TAG transaction, which vested on 1 November 2017 based on a three year performance period ended 
31 October 2017 (pro-rated to reflect the period of service as a director during the performance period). As the performance period ended on 31 October 2017, the value of the TAG 
ASGs is included in the figures for the full 18 month period ended 31 October 2018 but not in the 12 month period from 1 November 2017 to 31 October 2018. The 2018 (18 months) 
figures are based on the share price at the end of the period (£12.18½) as none were exercised during the period due to the one year holding period and were still outstanding as at 
31 October 2018.

6  Pension: the Company’s pension contribution or cash allowance paid during the period in respect of service as a director.
7  Chris Hsu joined the board on 1 September 2017 following the acquisition of the HPE Software business and resigned from the board on 19 March 2018.
8 

 Chris Hsu’s benefits in kind include a payment of $5,918,705 to cover the grossed-up cost of the excise tax incurred as a result of US “inversion” tax treatment of the HPE Software 
business transaction.
 The bonus payment for Chris Hsu relates to the two month proportion of his HPE Software business bonus for the 12 months ended 31 October 2017. No bonus was paid in respect 
of the 12 months ended 31 October 2018. 

9 

10   Stephen Murdoch left the board on 1 September 2017 to take on the role of Chief Operating Officer and re-joined the board on 19 March 2018 following his appointment as 

Chief Executive Officer. His salary, benefits, bonus and pension for the 12 month and 18 month periods ended 31 October 2018 reflect his service whilst a director and his LTIPs 
and ASG reflect the period of the relevant performance period whilst a director. 

11  Chris Kennedy joined the board on 8 January 2018 on his appointment as Chief Financial Officer.
12   Mike Phillips left the board on 31 January 2018, taking on the role of Director of M&A. His salary, benefits, bonus and pension for the 12 month and 18 month periods ended 

31 October 2018 the 2018 reflect his service whilst a director but his LTIPs and ASGs reflect the period of the relevant performance period whilst a director.

13   Nils Brauckmann left the board on 11 July 2018 following the announcement of the sale of SUSE. His salary, benefits, bonus and pension for the 12 month and 18 month periods 

ended 31 October 2018 reflect his service whilst a director but his LTIPs and ASGs reflect the period of the relevant performance period whilst a director.

14  The LTIP figure for 2017 has been restated to reflect the share price at vesting of £25.18 (16 December 2017).

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

97

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Directors’ Remuneration report Continued 

Annual bonus for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 (audited) 
Following completion of the HPE Software business acquisition and the 
change in financial year end, the annual bonus for the 18 month period 
ended 31 October 2018 was split into two separate periods: a transitional 
six month period from 1 May 2017 to 31 October 2017 and a normal 
annual bonus based on the 12 month period from 1 November 2017 to 
31 October 2018. The maximum bonus opportunity was 150% of salary 
earned over each of the two periods. 

The executive directors are on the same bonus plan as all non-
commissioned employees and their bonuses are capped at the 
percentages above. There is no bonus pay-out if Adjusted EBITDA on 
a constant currency basis, excluding the impact of in-year acquisitions, 
is the same as the previous year and maximum bonuses are earned if 
the increase in this measure is 10% or more with pay-outs calculated 
on a straight-line basis between these two points. 

In respect of the transitional six month period from 1 May 2017 to 
31 October 2017, Adjusted EBITDA for the Micro Focus business 
declined 4.1% on a constant currency basis as operational improvements 
were put on hold pending the completion of the HPE Software business 
acquisition. As a result, no bonus was payable in respect of this period. 
A bonus was paid to Chris Hsu in December 2017 in respect of the HPE 
Software business financial year ending 31 October 2017. This was 
based on the HPE Software business bonus structure and the HPE 

Software business performance measured against profit, revenue and 
personal objectives and represented 52% of the target bonus. Two 
months of this bonus was funded by Micro Focus in respect of the post 
completion period from 1 September 2017 to 31 October 2017 
($96,844) with the remainder funded by HP. 

The annual bonus for the 12 months ended 31 October 2018 is based 
on the growth in Adjusted EBITDA (on a constant currency basis) from 
the pro-forma 12 months ended 31 October 2017 compared to the 
12 months ended 31 October 2018. To adjust for the impact of currency 
movements, the figure for the 12 months ended 31 October 2018 has 
been rebased to the Company’s plan exchange rates set at the start of 
the period, which reduces the Adjusted EBITDA figure, for bonus 
purposes, from $1,529.6m to $1,507.4m. This reduces the growth over 
the period for bonus purposes from 9.2% to 7.6%, which resulted in 
bonus payments of 76% of the maximum opportunity. No annual bonus 
was paid to Chris Kennedy or Chris Hsu in respect of Micro Focus 
performance in 2018, as a result of their resignations during the period. 
One third of the annual bonus earned whilst serving as a director for 
Stephen Murdoch, Mike Phillips and Nils Brauckmann will be deferred 
into shares for a period of three years. Compulsory deferral into shares 
does not apply to Kevin Loosemore in accordance with the approved 
policy as his maximum bonus level was already at 150% of salary when 
compulsory deferral was introduced in 2016.

Executive director
Kevin Loosemore
Stephen Murdoch1
Mike Phillips1
Nils Brauckmann1

Adjusted 
EBITDA 
growth  

threshold
0%
0%
0%
0%

Adjusted 
EBITDA  
growth 
Maximum
10%
10%
10%
10%

Adjusted 
EBITDA  
growth  

Achieved
7.6%
7.6%
7.6%
7.6%

Maximum  

Bonus for  

bonus
£’000
1,125
749
181
509

% of  

maximum
76%
76%
76%
76%

2018
£’000
855
569
137
387

1  The figures for Stephen Murdoch, Mike Phillips and Nils Brauckmann reflect the period served as a director.

Vesting of long-term incentives with performance periods ending in the 18 month period to 31 October 2018 (audited)
The awards granted on 17 July 2015 to the executive directors vested on 17 July 2018. The awards granted on 23 March 2016 to Stephen Murdoch 
and Nils Brauckmann will vest on 23 March 2019 subject to continued employment. Vesting of these awards was based on average aggregate EPS 
growth in excess of RPI over the three years ended 30 April 2018, as set out in the table below.

Average aggregate EPS growth of the Company  
in excess of RPI over the performance period
Less than 3% p.a.
Equal to 3% p.a.
Between 3% and 9% p.a.
Equal to or above 9% p.a.

Vesting percentage of the shares subject to an award
0%
25%
Between 25% and 100% on a straight-line basis
100%

98

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

The aggregate Diluted Adjusted EPS over the performance period of $510.09 exceeded the stretch target aggregate EPS of $483.97 for 
maximum vesting (allowing for EPS growth of 9% pa above RPI from the base year EPS figure of $129.43 for the year ending 30 April 2015), 
resulting in 100% vesting of these awards. LTIP awards do not benefit from dividends until exercised or released.

Executive director
Kevin Loosemore
Stephen Murdoch1
Stephen Murdoch2
Mike Phillips
Nils Brauckmann
Nils Brauckmann2

Interest held
111,275
44,510
26,024
52,299
17,722
26,024

% vesting
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%

Interest vesting
111,275
44,510
26,024
52,299
17,722
26,024

Vesting date
17 July 2018
17 July 2018
23 March 2019
17 July 2018
17 July 2018
23 March 2019

1  Stephen Murdoch’s awards were made to him prior to his appointment to the board.
2  The performance condition for these awards has been met but they will not time vest until 23 March 2019.

Vesting of Additional Share Grants for performance periods ending in the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 (audited)
The ASGs awarded to executive directors on 20 November 2014 following the completion of the TAG transaction on 1 November 2014 vested on 
1 November 2017 subject to a performance condition based on shareholder return as follows:

Shareholder return (as defined below)
50% or less
Between 50% and 100%
100% or more

Vesting percentage of the shares subject to an award
0%
Between 25% and 100% on a straight-line basis
100%

Shareholder return is calculated by comparing the Vesting Price of £24.7885 (being the average share price over the 20 days prior to the vesting 
date) plus the sum of the dividends paid in the three years from completion (£1.4858) to the Reference Price of £8.19425 (being the average share 
price over the 20 days prior to signing of the heads of terms agreement on 3 June 2014). This gives a shareholder return of 221% resulting in 100% 
vesting of these awards. ASG awards do not benefit from dividends until exercised.

Executive director
Kevin Loosemore
Stephen Murdoch
Mike Phillips
Nils Brauckmann

Interest held
947,140
405,917
676,529 
405,917

% vesting
100%
100%
100%
100%

Interest vesting
947,140
405,917
676,529 
405,917

Vesting date
1 November 2017
1 November 2017
1 November 2017
1 November 2017

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

99

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Directors’ Remuneration report Continued 

Share interest awards made during the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 (audited) 
Deferred Shares Bonus Plan
On 25 July 2017, conditional awards were made under the Deferred Share Bonus Plan to the three executive directors for whom one-third of their 
year ended 30 April 2017 annual bonus was deferred into shares. The number of shares awarded was based on the closing mid-market share price 
of £22.27 on the day before the grant date. 

Executive director
Stephen Murdoch
Mike Phillips
Nils Brauckmann

Date of grant
25 July 2017
25 July 2017
25 July 2017

Awards made  

during the period
5,051
4,748
4,519

Share price 
at grant1
£22.27
£22.27
£22.27

Face value  
at grant
£112,486
£105,738
£100,638

1  Share price at grant is the closing mid-market price on the day before grant.

Long-term Incentive Plan
During the 18 months ended 31 October 2018, all executive directors were granted nil-cost options or conditional awards under the LTIP as set out 
in the table below. 

Executive director
Kevin Loosemore
Chris Hsu2
Stephen Murdoch3
Stephen Murdoch5
Chris Kennedy6
Chris Kennedy5,6
Mike Phillips
Nils Brauckmann

Date of grant
6 September 2017
6 September 2017
6 September 2017
20 September 2018
11 January 2018
20 September 2018
6 September 2017
6 September 2017

Performance period
3 years from 1 May 2017
3 years from 1 May 2017
3 years from 1 May 2017
3 years from 1 May 2018
3 years from 1 May 2017
3 years from 1 May 2018
3 years from 1 May 2017
3 years from 1 May 2017

Awards made 
during the 
period
67,965
69,848
36,6644
67,537
46,275
26,536
34,4644
33,6334

Share price 
Face value  
at grant1
at grant
£22.07 £1,499,988
£1,541,545
£22.07
£809,174
£22.07
£13.19
£890,813
£22.69 £1,049,980
£350,010
£13.19
£760,620
£22.07
£742,280
£22.07

Grant basis
200% of salary
200% of salary
150% of salary
Top-up
200% of salary
Top-up
150% of salary
150% of salary

1  Share price at grant is the closing mid-market price on the day before grant.
2  Chris Hsu’s award lapsed on his service terminating on 19 September 2018.
3  Stephen Murdoch’s award was made to him between stepping down from the board 1 September 2017 and re-joining the board 19 March 2018.
4  The number of shares was calculated based on the share price of £20.97 which would have been used had the grant been made on 10 August 2017 as originally planned.
5 

 The award made to Stephen Murdoch and Chris Kennedy on 20 September 2018 were to top up their grants in the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 to 200% of salary at the 
date of grant. 

6  Chris Kennedy’s LTIP awards will lapse as a result of his resignation and subsequent leaving employment in February 2019.

The awards will be eligible to vest on the third anniversary of the date of grant subject to achievement of a performance condition based on average 
growth, in excess of RPI, of the aggregate EPS over the relevant three year performance period. 

Annualised EPS growth of the Company  
in excess of RPI over the performance period
Less than 3% p.a.
Equal to 3% p.a.
Between 3% and 9% p.a.
Equal to or above 9% p.a.

Vesting percentage of the shares subject to an award
0%
25%
Between 25% and 100% on a straight-line basis
100%

100

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Additional Share Grants
Following the acquisition of the HPE Software business on 1 September 
2017, ASG awards (“HPE Software ASGs”) were made under the 
Additional Share Grant programme to executive directors and key senior 
executives. These were due to vest on 6 September 2019 subject to 
meeting a performance condition based on shareholder return, measured 
over the three year performance period from the announcement of the 
transaction on 6 September 2016. Shareholder return is calculated by 
comparing the Vesting Price (being the average share price over the 20 
days prior to the vesting date) plus the sum of the dividends paid in the 
three years from the announcement date (6 September 2016) to the 
Reference Price of £18.17¾ (being average share price over the 20 days 
to signing of the heads of terms agreement on 2 August 2016). If 
shareholder return is 50% or less, none of the award vests, rising on a 
straight-line basis to 100% vesting for a shareholder return of 100% or 
more. A-one year holding period applies to employees at vesting. Awards 
levels were set according to seniority with the award to any individual 
not exceeding 2,175,155 shares (being 0.5% of the issued share capital 
of the Company at the completion date), with an overall aggregate 
maximum of 10,875,779 shares (being 2.5% of the issued share capital 
at completion).

The committee undertook a review of the ASG following the sale of 
SUSE and in response to shareholder feedback. The committee 

concluded that realigning the performance period to the three years 
post completion of the HPE Software business acquisition with awards 
vesting in September 2020 better aligned to the value creation of the 
acquisition and the 2020 business plan. The committee also decided to 
retain the shareholder return performance measure as this reflected the 
value created and the return to shareholders, and is closely aligned to the 
overall strategy of generating 15% p.a. to 20% p.a. shareholder returns 
over the longer term. In September 2018, the current and past executive 
directors voluntarily agreed to surrender their existing HPE Software 
ASGs in return for a new grant on identical terms but with the 
performance period and vesting date of 1 September 2020 aligned to 
the three years post completion of the HPE Software business 
acquisition as set out below. Accordingly, none of the replacement HPE 
Software ASG award will vest if shareholder return is 50% or below, 
rising on a straight-line basis to 100% vesting for a shareholder return 
of 100% or more. Shareholder returns is calculated by comparing the 
Vesting Price (being the average share price over the 20 days prior to the 
vesting date) plus the sum of the dividends paid in the three years from 
the completion date (1 September 2017) to the Reference Price of 
£18.17¾ (being average share price over the 20 days to signing of the 
heads of terms agreement on 2 August 2016). The same one year 
holding period applies to employees at vesting as do the limits on both 
individual and aggregate grant levels. For full vesting, this requires an 
increase in shareholder value of approximately £7.9bn (including 
dividends) from the Reference price. 

Executive director
Kevin Loosemore
Chris Hsu2
Stephen Murdoch3
Chris Kennedy
Mike Phillips
Nils Brauckmann

Original HPE Software ASG Awards

Replacement HPE Software ASG Awards

Date of grant
21 September 2017
21 September 2017
21 September 2017
11 January 2018
21 September 2017
21 September 2017

Awards made 
during the 
period
1,100,000
900,000
500,000
500,000
676,000
500,000

Face value 
at grant1
£26,862,000
£21,978,000
£12,210,000
£11,345,000
£16,507,920
£12,210,000

Date of grant
20 September 2018

Awards made 
during the 
period

Face value 
at grant1
1,100,000 £14,509,000

20 September 2018
20 September 2018
20 September 2018
20 September 2018

947,000 £12,490,930
£8,916,440
676,000
£8,916,440
676,000
£6,595,000
500,000

1 

 Face value at grant is calculated using the closing mid-market share price on the day before grant: £24.42 (21 September 2017), £22.69 (11 January 2017) and £13.19 
(20 September 2018).
 Chris Hsu’s original HPE Software ASG award lapsed on his service terminating on 19 September 2018.
 Stephen Murdoch’s original HPE Software ASG award was made to him between stepping down from the board 1 September 2017 and re-joining the board 19 March 2018. 

2 
3 
4  Chris Kennedy’s replacement HPE Software ASG award will lapse as a result of his resignation and subsequent leaving employment in February 2019.

Due to US tax considerations, it was not possible to apply a similar approach to US senior executives below the board holding HPE Software ASG 
awards. Instead, a revised package of LTIPs was awarded to align their interests directly to the 2020 business plan which has an offset against any 
shares that vest under the original ASG. To provide a consistent approach globally, this was applied to all senior executives below the board holding 
HPE Software ASGs. 

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

101

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Directors’ Remuneration report Continued 

Changes to the board in the 18 months ended 31 October 2018
During the 18 months ended 31 October 2018, a number of changes 
were made to the executive director appointments.

Chris Hsu joined the board on 1 September 2017 as Chief Executive 
Officer following the HPE Software business acquisition. He resigned 
from the board on 19 March 2018 and went on “garden leave” for the 
remainder of his six months’ notice. During this period, he continued to 
receive his salary ($500,758) and contractual benefits ($17,684) 
amounting to $518,442, as required under his contract and his 
employment terminated on 19 September 2018. No further payments 
were made for loss of office, no bonus was paid under the Micro Focus 
corporate bonus plan and all his outstanding LTIPs and ASGs lapsed on 
leaving employment. 

Stephen Murdoch stepped down from the board on 1 September 2017 
to take on the role of Chief Operating Officer. He was reappointed to the 
board on 19 March 2018 as Chief Executive Officer.

The Company announced on 8 January 2018 that Mike Philips would be 
taking on a new role of Director of M&A and stepped down from the 
board on 31 January 2018 after seven years as Chief Financial Officer, to 
be replaced by Chris Kennedy who joined the board on 8 January 2018. 

Nils Brauckmann stepped down from the board following the 
announcement of the sale of SUSE, which is expected to complete early 
in 2019. On completion, his employment is due to transfer with SUSE and 
his various incentives will be treated as set out under the plan rules as for 
other SUSE executives. His deferred shares in the Deferred Share Bonus 
Plan will be prorated for time and vest on completion. LTIP awards will be 
pro-rated for time and any performance conditions will continue to be 
tested. The committee has exercised its discretion to early test the LTIP’s 
performance conditions over the performance period to completion. His 
HPE Software ASG award will be performance tested at the normal 
vesting date as the ASG rules do not permit early testing of the 
performance condition except on a change of control of the Company. 

In addition, on 5 November 2018, the Company announced that Chris 
Kennedy would be leaving the Company in early 2019 after closing out 
the accounts for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 and that 
Brian McArthur-Muscroft had joined and would take up the role of 
Chief Financial Officer and be appointed to the board in early 2019. 
Chris Kennedy will continue to receive his salary and contractual benefits 
until his date of leaving, but no FY18 annual bonus is payable and all his 
LTIP awards and HPE Software ASG award will lapse on leaving. No 
further payments will be made for loss of office. 

Executive directors’ service agreements at 31 October 2018

Executive director
Kevin Loosemore1
Stephen Murdoch2
Chris Kennedy3
Brian McArthur-Muscroft4

Date of service contract
14 April 2011
16 April 2014
5 January 2018
4 November 2018

Notice period
The agreement is terminable by either party on six months’ notice
The agreement is terminable by either party on six months’ notice
The agreement is terminable by either party on six months’ notice
The agreement is terminable by either party on six months’ notice

1   Kevin Loosemore’s service contract was amended 9 December 2015 and 12 April 2017.
2 

 Stephen Murdoch stepped down from the board on completion of the HPE Software business acquisition on 1 September 2017 to become Chief Operating Officer. He was 
reappointed to the board as Chief Executive Officer on 19 March 2018. 
 The Company announced on 5 November 2018 that Chris Kennedy would be leaving the Company early in 2019.
 Brian McArthur-Muscroft joined the Company on 5 November 2018 and will take up the role of Chief Financial Officer and be appointed to the board in early 2019.

3 
4 

Payments for loss of office (audited)
There were no payments for loss of office during the 18 months ended 31 October 2018, other than those for Chris Hsu set out above.

Payments to past directors (audited) 
There were no payments made to past directors during the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 relating to their previous service as a director.

Other directorships
Kevin Loosemore is Chairman of IRIS Software Group Ltd and Chris Kennedy is a non-executive director of Whitbread plc. 

102

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Implementation of Remuneration Policy for the year ending 31 October 2019
Base salary
The table below shows the salaries, annual bonus opportunities and annual LTIP grants for the executive directors for the year ending 31 October 2019.

Executive director
Kevin Loosemore
Stephen Murdoch
Chris Kennedy1
Brian McArthur-Muscroft2

Base salary  
at 1 November  

2018
£750,000
£850,000
£700,000
£600,000

Max annual  
bonus  

opportunity
150%
150%
n/a
100%

LTIP grant  
as a % of  

base salary
200%
200%
n/a
200%

1 

2 

 Chris Kennedy announced on 5 November 2018 that he would be leaving the Company in early 2019. Accordingly no annual bonus will be payable in respect of the 18 months ended 
31 October 2018 and no annual grant of LTIPs will be made to him in 2019.
 Brian McArthur-Muscroft joined the Company on 5 November 2018 and will take up the role of Chief Financial Officer and be appointed to the board in early 2019. His annual bonus 
opportunity in 2019 will be 100% of salary, rising to 150% of salary as for the other executive directors from 1 November 2019. An additional one-off LTIP will be granted to him over 
200% of salary on the same terms as the normal annual LTIP grants but with a four year vesting period rather than the normal three years. 

The average basic salary increase across the Group for 2018 is 2%.

Pension
Executive directors will continue to receive a pension contribution or 
payment in lieu of pension. The Executive Chairman and Chris Kennedy 
receive a payment in lieu of pension of 20% of base salary whilst other 
executive directors receive a contribution of 15% of base salary.

Review of past performance until end of reporting period
The remuneration package is structured to help ensure alignment with 
shareholders. The graph and table below show how the Chief Executive 
Officer’s or Executive Chairman’s pay compares to total shareholder 
returns (TSR) over the last 9½ years.

Annual bonus
The annual bonus will continue to be based on growth in Adjusted 
EBITDA on a constant currency basis excluding the impact of in year 
acquisitions from the 12 months ending 31 October 2018 to the 12 
months ending 31 October 2019. There will be zero payment if there is 
no growth increasing on a straight-line basis to a maximum payment at 
10% year on year growth. 

For all executive directors (with the exception of the Executive Chairman) 
one-third of any bonus earned will be deferred into Company shares, to 
maximise long-term shareholder alignment, support retention in a highly 
competitive and global talent pool, and be in line with typical market 
practice. Two-thirds of the bonus will continue to be paid in cash. The 
Executive Chairman is exempt as his annual bonus has been 150% since 
2011 and its treatment was covered in his service contract which 
predates the Remuneration Policy. Deferred bonus awards will vest in full 
after three years, subject to continued employment.

Malus and claw back provisions will apply to awards under the Deferred 
Bonus Plan, as well as to the cash bonus.

LTIP
Any awards made will be in line with the approved Remuneration Policy. 
At present, it is anticipated that the performance measures and targets 
will be on a similar basis as for awards made in the 18 month period to 
31 October 2018. Malus and clawback provisions apply to LTIP awards. 
Further details of the awards will be made at the time awards are granted 
and full details in respect of the awards will be provided in next year’s 
Remuneration Report.

The graph below shows the value, by 31 October 2018, of £100 invested 
in Micro Focus International plc on 30 April 2009 compared with the 
value of £100 invested in the FTSE 250, FTSE 100 and the FTSE 
All-Share Software and Computer Services Indices. The intervening 
points are at the Company’s financial year ends, together with 30 April 
2018. The FTSE 250, FTSE 100 and the FTSE All-Share Software and 
Computer Services Indices have been chosen as they are considered the 
most relevant indices for comparison with the Company. 

Historical TSR performance
Growth in the value of a hypothetical £100 holding over the period from 30 April 2009

£1,100

£1,000

£900

£800

£700

£600

£500

£400

£300

£200

£100

£0

30 April
2009

30 April
2010

30 April
2011

30 April
2012

30 April
2013

30 April
2014

30 April
2015

30 April
2016

30 April
2017

30 April
2018

Micro Focus International
FTSE 250 Index
FTSE 100 Index
FTSE All-Share Software and Computer Services Index

31 October
2018

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

103

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Directors’ Remuneration report Continued 

The table below details the Chief Executive Officer and Executive Chairman’s (or, prior to his appointment on 14 April 2011, the Chief Executive 
Officer’s) single figure of remuneration over the same period:

18 months 
ended 
31 October

2018 
£000

2,710

57%
100%

4,952

12%
n/a

2010 
£000

2011 
£000

2012 
£000

2013 
£000

2014 
£000

2015 
£000

2016 
£000

2017 
£000

Year ended 30 April

Stephen Murdoch1
Single total figure of remuneration
Annual bonus outcome 
(% of maximum)
LTIP vesting (% of maximum)

Chris Hsu2
Single total figure of remuneration
Annual bonus outcome  
(% of maximum)
LTIP vesting (% of maximum)

Kevin Loosemore
Single total figure of remuneration
Annual bonus outcome  
(% of maximum)
LTIP vesting (% of maximum)

Nigel Clifford
Single total figure of remuneration
Annual bonus outcome  
(% of maximum)
LTIP vesting (% of maximum)

Stephen Kelly 
Single total figure of remuneration
Annual bonus outcome  
(% of maximum)
LTIP vesting (% of maximum)

23

Nil
Nil

628

Nil
Nil

3,696

Nil
100%

1,291

1,304

12,468

4,315

4,231

4,226

90%
Nil

92%
Nil

100%
199%

100%
100%

100%
100%

45%
100%

1 

2 

 Stephen Murdoch assumed the CEO responsibilities from 1 May 2017 in the build up to the acquisition of the HPE Software business and stepped down on completion of the 
transaction 1 September 2017 to take on the role of Chief Operating Officer. He was reappointed as CEO from 16 March 2018. The figure is slightly different from that shown in 
the single figure for remuneration table as the value placed on the LTIPs and ASG reflect the period of the relevant performance period that he was undertaking the CEO role. 
 Chris Hsu’s period as CEO was from 1 September 2017 to 16 March 2018. The 2018 single figure of remuneration includes the benefits in kind payment of $5,918,705 to cover 
the grossed-up cost of the excise tax incurred as a result of US “inversion” tax treatment of the HPE Software business transaction. The figure for his annual bonus outcome as a 
percentage of maximum has been calculated by reference to a maximum bonus of 150% of his salary earned over the period as a director. The figure for his annual bonus outcome 
as a percentage of maximum has been calculated by reference to a maximum bonus of 150% of his salary earned over the period as a director.

Percentage change in Executive Chairman remuneration
The table below shows the annualised percentage change in the Executive Chairman’s remuneration from the 12 months ended 30 April 2017 to the 
18 months ended 31 October 2018, as compared to the average annualised percentage change in remuneration over the same period for all staff 
that were on the corporate bonus scheme in both years and were employed throughout the period. The Executive Chairman was chosen as he was 
undertaking the role of Chief Executive Officer up to 30 April 2017 and is the only director that has been present for the whole period. We have 
selected our staff on the corporate bonus scheme (unchanged from the 2017 report) for this comparison as it is considered to be the most relevant 
for the structure of remuneration.

Base package
Salary
Taxable benefits
Annual performance bonus

Total

104

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Executive Chairman £000

2018 
18 month period
1,125
47
855

2018 
Annualised
750
31
570

2017 
12 month period
750
32
506

Annualised 
% change
No change
(3%)
13%

2,027

1,351

1,288

5%

Other 
employees

Annualised 
% change
3%
4%
23%

5%

Relative importance of spend on pay
The table below shows the percentage change in total employee pay expenditure and shareholder distributions (i.e. dividends and share buy-backs) 
from the financial year ended 30 April 2017 to the 12 and 18 month periods ending 31 October 2018.

Distribution to shareholders

• Dividends paid
• Share buy-backs
• Return of Value
Total

Employee remuneration

2018

18 months
ended
31 October 
$m

12 months 
ended
31 October
$m

2017
12 months 
ended
30 April 
$m

% change from 2017

18 months
(%)

12 months
(%)

542.2
171.2
500.0
1,213.4
2,030.7

408.3
171.2
–
579.5
n/a

177.5
– 
– 
177.5
449.2

205.5%
n/a
n/a
583.7%
352.1%

130.0%
n/a
n/a
226.4%
n/a

The directors are proposed a final dividend for the year ended 31 October 2018 of 58.33 cents (45.22 pence) per share (2017: final dividend of 
58.33 cents 45.22 pence). 

Directors’ shareholdings and share interests (audited) as at 31 October 2018

Nil-cost options held

Director
Kevin Loosemore
Chris Hsu1
Stephen Murdoch2
Chris Kennedy3
Mike Phillips4
Nils Brauckmann5
Karen Slatford
Richard Atkins6
Amanda Brown
Silke Scheiber
Darren Roos
Lawton Fitt

Shares held 
(owned 
outright)

Vested but not 
exercised
747,539 1,507,896
–
592,969
–
940,968
450,798
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
5,390
14,437
145,656
–
17,704
16,710
4,631
–
18,704
–

Unvested and 
not subject to 
performance

–

Unvested and 
subject to 
performance
1,237,121
–
31,075 1,090,841
748,811
747,726
567,109
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
4,748
30,543
–
–
–
–
–
–

Shareholding 
requirement 
(% of salary)
200%
–
200%
200%
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

Current 
shareholding 
(% of salary)
3,664%
–
858%

Requirement 
met?
Yes
n/a
Yes
25% Not yet due
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

1  Chris Hsu resigned his employment and left the board on 19 March 2018, at which time he did not own any shares in the Company and all his share awards lapsed. 
2  Stephen Murdoch is required to have a 200% shareholding within three years of rejoining the board on 19 March 2018.
3 

 Chris Kennedy’s shareholding requirement to have a shareholding of 200% of salary within three years of joining as a director on 8 January 2018 will fall away and all his share awards 
will lapse on his leaving the Company early in 2019.

4  113,080 shares are held by Mike Phillips’ wife, Josephine Phillips. His shareholding requirement fell away on his leaving the board on 31 January 2018.
5  Nils Brauckmann’s shareholding requirement fell away on his leaving the board on 11 July 2018.
6  12,902 shares are held by Richard Atkins’ wife, Julie Atkins.

Between 1 November 2018 and 20 February 2019, the only change to the above interests was in respect of the annual award of nil cost option LTIPs 
on 18 February 2019 to Kevin Loosemore (89,285 options) and Stephen Murdoch (101,190 options). 

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

105

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Directors’ Remuneration report Continued 

Single figure for total remuneration of executive directors on statutory basis (audited) 
The table below shows the single figure for total remuneration for executive directors on the statutory basis, which requires the value of LTIPs and the 
TAG ASGs to be valued at the date of vesting irrespective of whether they could be exercised and realised at this time. Figures are shown for the full 
18 months ended 31 October 2018 and the previous 12 months ended 30 April 2017. It also shows the (unaudited) figures for 12 months ended 
31 October 2018 to enable comparison against the 12 months ended 30 April 2017 (as these are not part of the statutory disclosure they are not 
subject to audit).

Executive directors
Kevin Loosemore

Chris Hsu7

Stephen Murdoch10

Chris Kennedy11

Mike Phillips12

Nils Brauckmann13

Total

Base Salary 
and Fees1
£’000
750
750
1,125

–
288
413

500
497
668

–
487
487

470
120
361

423
339
583

Benefits 
in Kind2
£’000
32
33
47

–
11
4,4668

18
11
17

–
12
12

19
4
13

12
7
13

Annual 
Bonus3
£’000
506
855
855

–
–
739

338
569
569

–
–
–

317
137
137

285
387
387

2,143
2,481
3,637

81
78
4,568

1,446
1,948
2,021

2017 (12 months)
2018 (12 months)
2018 (18 months)

2017 (12 months)
2018 (12 months)
2018 (18 months)

2017 (12 months)
2018 (12 months)
2018 (18 months)

2017 (12 months)
2018 (12 months)
2018 (18 months)

2017 (12 months)
2018 (12 months)
2018 (18 months)

2017 (12 months)
2018 (12 months)
2018 (18 months)

2017 (12 months)
2018 (12 months)
2018 (18 months)

LTIPs and ASGs

LTIPs4
£’000
2,788
1,407
1,407

–
–
–

1,365
513
513

–
–
–

1,493
607
607

68414
423
423

6,330
2,950
2,950

ASG5
£’000
–
–
25,232

–
–
–

–
–
5,809

–
–
–

–
–
18,023

–
–
6,421

–
–
55,485

Total
£’000
2,788
1,407
26,639

–
–
–

1,365
513
6,322

–
–
–

1,493
607
18,630

684
423
6,844

6,330
2,950
58,435

Pension6
£’000
150
150
225

–
–
–

75
75
100

–
97
97

71
18
54

63
51
87

359
391
563

Total
£’000
4,226
3,195
28,891

–
299
4,952

2,296
1,665
7,676

–
596
596

2,370
886
19,195

1,467
1,207
7,914

10,359
7,848
69,224

1   Base Salary and Fees: the amount earned during the period in respect of service as a director.
2   Benefits in Kind: including car, private medical insurance, permanent health insurance, life insurance and financial and tax advice for a US director.
3    Annual Bonus: payment for performance during the period in respect of service as a director. One-third of the annual bonus is deferred into shares for three years with the exception 

4 

5 

of the Executive Chairman and the bonus to Chris Hsu, which was based on the performance of the HPE Software business.
 LTIPs (excluding ASGs): the value of LTIP awards (excluding those awards under the ASG programme) which vest based on performance conditions ending during the relevant period, 
pro-rated to reflect the period as a director during the relevant three year performance period. The 2017 figures are based on the share price at vesting of £24.20 (27 June 2017) and 
£25.18 (16 December 2017). The 2018 figures are based on the share price at vesting of £12.64 (17 July 2018) and £13.05 (being the average share price over the final quarter of 
the financial year for the awards which will vest on 23 March 2019).
 ASG: the value of the ASG award made in November 2014 following the TAG transaction, which vested on 1 November 2017 based on a three year performance period ended 
31 October 2017 (pro-rated to reflect the period of service as a director during the performance period). As the performance period ended on 31 October 2017, the value of the TAG 
ASGs is included in the audited figures for the full 18 month period ended 31 October 2018 but not in the figures for the 12 month period from 1 November 2017 to 31 October 2018. 

6  Pension: the Company’s pension contribution or cash allowance paid during the period in respect of service as a director.
7 
8 

 Chris Hsu joined the board on 1 September 2017 following the acquisition of the HPE Software business and resigned from the board on 19 March 2018.
 Chris Hsu’s benefits in kind include a payment of $5,918,705 to cover the grossed-up cost of the excise tax incurred as a result of US “inversion” tax treatment of the HPE Software 
business transaction.
 The bonus payment for Chris Hsu relates to the two month proportion of his HPE Software business bonus for the year ending 31 October 2017. No bonus was paid in respect of the 
2018 financial year performance. 

9 

10   Stephen Murdoch left the board on 1 September 2017 to take on the role of Chief Operating Officer and rejoined the board on 19 March 2018 following his appointment as Chief 

Executive Officer. His salary, benefits, bonus and pension for the 12 month and 18 month periods ended 31 October 2018 reflect his service whilst a director and his LTIPs and ASG 
reflect the period of the performance period whilst a director. 

11   Chris Kennedy joined the board on 8 January 2018 on his appointment as Chief Financial Officer.
12   Mike Phillips left the board on 31 January 2018, taking on the role of Director of M&A. His salary, benefits, bonus and pension for the 12 month and 18 month periods ended 

31 October 2018 reflect his service whilst a director but his LTIPs and ASGs reflect the period of the performance period whilst a director.

13   Nils Brauckmann left the board on 11 July 2018 following the announcement of the sale of SUSE. His salary, benefits, bonus and pension for the 12 month and 18 month periods 

ended 31 October 2018 reflect his service whilst a director but his LTIPs and ASGs reflect the period of the performance period whilst a director.

14   The LTIP figure for 2017 has been restated to reflect the share price at vesting of £25.18 (16 December 2017).

106

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Micro Focus International plc Incentive Plan 2005 (“LTIP”)
The table below sets out the executive directors’ LTIP awards as at 31 October 2018 together with the movements in these awards during the 
18 month period.

Kevin Loosemore1
Kevin Loosemore1
Kevin Loosemore1
Kevin Loosemore1
Kevin Loosemore2
Kevin Loosemore2

Stephen Murdoch1
Stephen Murdoch1
Stephen Murdoch1
Stephen Murdoch1
Stephen Murdoch3
Stephen Murdoch2
Stephen Murdoch2
Stephen Murdoch2

Chris Kennedy2
Chris Kennedy2

Mike Phillips1
Mike Phillips1
Mike Phillips1
Mike Phillips1
Mike Phillips2
Mike Phillips2

Nils Brauckmann1
Nils Brauckmann1
Nils Brauckmann3
Nils Brauckmann2
Nils Brauckmann2

Number at 
1 May 
2017
192,157
142,132
115,192
111,275
69,156
–

Number 
granted in 
the period
–
–
–
–
–
67,965

Number 
exercised in 
the period
–
–
–
–
–
–

Number 
lapsed in 
the period
–
–
–
–
–
–

Number at 
31 October 
2018
192,157
142,132
115,192
111,275
69,156
67,965

Exercise 
price
0.0p
0.0p
0.0p
0.0p
0.0p
0.0p

96,237
39,884
56,421
44,510
26,024
39,640
–
–

–
–

86,471
63,959
61,710
52,299
37,262
–

27,159
17,722
26,024
33,476
–

–
–
–
–
–
–
36,664
67,537

46,275
26,536

–
–
–
–
–
34,464

–
–
–
–
33,633

50,000
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–

–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–

–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–

46,237
39,884
56,421
44,510
26,024
39,640
36,664
67,537

46,275
26,536

86,471
63,959
61,710
52,299
37,262
34,464

27,159
17,722
26,024
33,476
33,633

0.0p
0.0p
0.0p
0.0p
0.0p
0.0p
0.0p
0.0p

0.0p
0.0p

0.0p
0.0p
0.0p
0.0p
0.0p
0.0p

0.0p
0.0p
0.0p
0.0p
n/a

Date for exercise/release
27 June 2015 to 26 June 2022
26 June 2016 to 25 June 2023
27 June 2017 to 26 June 2024
17 July 2018 to 16 July 2025
26 July 2019 to 25 July 2026
17 July 2020 to 16 July 2027

27 December 2015 to 26 December 2022
26 June 2016 to 25 June 2023 
27 June 2017 to 26 June 2024
17 July 2018 to 16 July 2025
23 March 2019 to 22 March 2026
26 July 2019 to 25 July 2026
17 July 2020 to 16 July 2027
20 September 2021 to 19 September 2028

11 January 2021 to 10 January 2028
20 September 2021 to 19 September 2028

27 June 2015 to 26 June 2022
26 June 2016 to 25 June 2023
27 June 2017 to 26 June 2024
17 July 2018 to 16 July 2025
26 July 2019 to 25 July 2026
17 July 2020 to 16 July 2027

16 December 2017 to 15 December 2024
17 July 2018 to 16 July 2025
23 March 2019 to 22 March 2026
26 July 2019 to 25 July 2026
17 July 2020

1 
2 

3 

 This award vested in full as the performance condition was fully met. 
 Performance condition requires that cumulative EPS growth over a three year performance period starting on the 1 May preceding the date of grant is at least equal to RPI plus 3% 
per annum (at which point 25% of awards will vest) and for full vesting the aggregate EPS growth will be required to be RPI plus 9% per annum. Straight-line vesting will apply 
between these points. Performance against these objectives is determined by the committee based on the Company’s audited results. 
 These LTIP awards to Stephen Murdoch and Nils Brauckmann do not vest until 23 March 2019 but the performance condition measured over the performance period from 1 May 
2015 to 30 April 2018 has been fully met. 

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

107

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Directors’ Remuneration report Continued 

LTIP awards exercised during the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 (audited)

Executive director
Stephen Murdoch1

Number of 
options exercised
50,000

Exercise price
0.0p

Share price  
at exercise Gain on exercise
£21.83½ £1,091,750

1  Stephen Murdoch exercised part of his award on 26 January 2018 after leaving the board on 1 September 2017 and prior to re-joining the board on 19 March 2018.

Deferred Share Bonus Plan (“DSBP”)
The table below sets out the executive directors’ awards of conditional shares under the DSBP as at 31 October 2018 together with the movements 
in these awards during the 18 month period.

Stephen Murdoch
Mike Phillips
Nils Brauckmann

Number at 
1 May 
2017
–
–
–

Number 
granted in 
the period
5,051
4,748
4,519

Number 
exercised in 
the period
–
–
–

Number 
lapsed in 
the period
–
–
–

Number at 
31 October 
2018
5,051
4,748
4,519

Exercise 
price
0.0p
0.0p
0.0p

Date of release
25 July 2020
25 July 2020
25 July 2020

Additional Share Grant
The table below sets out the executive directors’ ASG awards as at 31 October 2018 together with the movements in these awards during the 18 
month period.

Kevin Loosemore1
Kevin Loosemore2

Stephen Murdoch1
Stephen Murdoch2

Chris Kennedy2

Mike Phillips1
Mike Phillips2

Nils Brauckmann1
Nils Brauckmann2

Number at 
1 May 
2017
947,140
–

405,917
–

676,529
–

405,917
–

Number 
granted in 
the period
–
1,100,000

Number 
exercised in 
the period
–
–

Number at 
Number 
31 October 
lapsed in 
2018
the period
947,140
–
– 1,100,000

Exercise 
price
0.0p
0.0p

–
947,000

676,000

–
676,000

–
500,000

–
–

–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–

–
–

–
–

405,917
947,000

676,000

676,529
676,000

405,917
500,000

0.0p
0.0p

0.0p

0.0p
0.0p

0.0p
0.0p

Date of exercise
1 November 2017 to 31 October 2024
1 September 2020 to 31 August 2027

1 November 2017 to 31 October 2024
1 September 2020 to 31 August 2027

1 September 2020 to 31 August 2027

1 November 2017 to 31 October 2024
1 September 2020 to 31 August 2027

1 November 2017 to 31 October 2024
1 September 2020 to 31 August 2027

1  This award vested in full as the performance condition was fully met. 
2  The performance condition is that the percentage of ordinary shares subject to the ASG which may be acquired on exercise on or after the vesting date is as follows:

(i)  0% if the Shareholder Return Percentage (as defined below) is 50% or less;
(ii)  100% if the Shareholder Return Percentage is 100% or more; and 
(iii)  a percentage determined on a straight-line basis between (i) and (ii) above.

 The “Shareholder Return Percentage” will be calculated by deducting £18.17¾ per share (the “Reference Price”), being the average of the 20 days to 2 August 2016 (being the date 
of the heads of agreement relating to the acquisition of the HPE Software business), from the sum of the “Vesting Price” (calculated as the average closing share price over the period 
of 20 days ending on the day prior to the vesting date) plus the total of all dividends per share between completion and the vesting date. This will be divided by the Reference Price, 
multiplying the resulting figure by 100 to obtain the Shareholder Return Percentage.

108

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
 
 
 
Sharesave
Chris Kennedy joined Sharesave on 3 August 2018 at an option price of £10.23 over 1,759 shares that are exercisable from 1 October 2021.

Share option schemes
Details of the Company’s share option schemes are given in note 35 of the financial statements.

The mid-market closing price of the shares at 31 October 2018 was 1,218.5 pence per share and during the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 the 
mid-market closing price varied between 911.8 pence and 2,739 pence per share. 

Statement of shareholding voting 
The following table shows the results of the vote on the 2017 Remuneration Policy and the advisory vote on the 2017 Directors’ Remuneration Report 
at the AGM held on 4 September 2017:

Votes for

Votes against

Number
162,259,404
174,387,960

Percentage
86.46%
93.13%

Number
25,408,333
12,854,303

Percentage
13.54%
6.87%

Votes cast
188,129,640
188,129,640

Votes withheld
461,903
887,377

2017 Remuneration Policy
2017 Director’s Remuneration Report

On behalf of the board,

Amanda Brown
Chair of Remuneration Committee 
20 February 2019

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

109

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Directors’ report

The directors of Micro Focus International plc (the ‘Company’) present 
their report and the audited consolidated financial statements of the 
Company for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018.

Strategic report
The Group is required by the Companies Act 2006 to present a fair 
review of the business during the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 
and of the position of the Group at the end of the financial period along 
with a description of the principal risks and uncertainties faced by the 
Group. In addition, the Group is also required to present the future 
developments of the Company. The information that fulfils these 
requirements can be found on pages 14 to 67 of the Strategic Report. 

Corporate governance
The Group is required to produce a corporate governance statement 
pursuant to the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) Disclosure and 
Transparency Rules. The information that fulfils this requirement can 
be found in this Directors’ report and in the Corporate governance 
section on pages 72 to 79 which is incorporated into this Directors’ 
report by reference. 

Under Listing Rule 9.8.4.R the Company is required to make the 
following disclosures:

Dividends
The board has a dividend policy to award a level of full year dividend 
covered approximately two times by Adjusted after tax earnings of 
the Group. 

For the 18 months ended 31 October 2018, the directors have 
recommended a final dividend of 58.33 cents per share. When taken 
together with the interim dividends of 34.60 cents per share paid in 
February 2018 and 58.33 cents per share paid in August 2018, this gives 
a total dividend in respect of the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 of 
151.26 cents per share. The final dividend will be paid on 5 April 2019 
to shareholders on the register on 1 March 2019. 

Dividends will be paid in Sterling based on an exchange rate of £1 = $1.29, 
equivalent to approximately 45.22 pence per share, being the rate 
applicable on 13 February 2019, the date on which the board resolved to 
propose to pay the final dividend.

Directors and their interests
The following individuals were directors of the Company during the 
year reported on and up to the date of signing this report, unless 
otherwise stated:

Areas for disclosure:
Interest capitalised

Publication of unaudited financial 
information

Location of details in the 
Annual Report and Accounts
Not applicable

Chief Executive’s strategic review, 
Chief Financial Officer’s report, 
Alternative Performance 
Measures

Executive
Kevin Loosemore 

Stephen Murdoch 

Chris Kennedy

Detail of any long-term incentive 
schemes

Directors’ Remuneration report

Mike Phillips 

Waiver of emoluments by a director

Not applicable

Waiver of future emoluments 
by a director

Not applicable

Non pre-emptive issues of equity 
for cash

Note 31 to the Group’s 
consolidated financial statements

Not applicable

Not applicable

Not applicable

Non pre-emptive issues of equity 
for cash by any unlisted major 
subsidiary undertaking

Parent company participation in 
a placing by a listed subsidiary

Contracts of significance to 
which the Company is a party and 
in which a director is materially 
interested

Contracts of significance between 
a Company and a controlling 
shareholder

Provision of services by 
a controlling shareholder

Shareholder waiver of dividends

Not applicable

Shareholder waiver of 
future dividends

Agreements with controlling 
shareholders

Not applicable

Not applicable

110

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Not applicable

Lawton Fitt

Not applicable

John Schultz

Nils Brauckmann

Chris Hsu

Non-executive
Karen Slatford

Richard Atkins

Amanda Brown

Darren Roos

Silke Scheiber

Executive Chairman

Chief Executive Officer 
(resigned 1 September 2017 
and re-appointed 19 March 2018)

Chief Financial Officer 
(appointed 8 January 2018)

Chief Financial Officer 
(resigned 31 January 2018)

Chief Executive Officer of SUSE 
(resigned 11 July 2018)

Chief Executive Officer 
(appointed 1 September 2017 
and resigned 19 March 2018)

Senior independent non-executive director

Independent non-executive director

Independent non-executive director 

Independent non-executive director 
(appointed 15 May 2017)

Independent non-executive director 
(appointed 15 May 2017)

Independent non-executive director 
(appointed 17 October 2017)

HPE nominated non-executive director 
(appointed 1 September 2017 and resigned 
20 December 2017)

 
All employees accept the commitment within this policy that the Group 
will not allow discrimination or harassment by employees or others acting 
on the Group’s behalf, in respect of gender, age, marital status, disability, 
sexuality, race, colour, ethnic or national origin, educational and 
professional backgrounds or religious or political beliefs.

Disabled employees
With regard to existing employees and those who may become disabled, 
the Group’s policy is to examine ways and means to provide continuing 
employment under its existing terms and conditions and to provide training 
and career development, including promotion, wherever appropriate. 

Employee involvement
The Group believes it is important that employees are aware of the 
Group’s business strategy and the objectives, which are in place to assist 
them to focus on working towards these goals. Communications at the 
time of key announcements, including presentations by directors to all 
employees, together with briefings throughout the period, are part of the 
communication and consultation programme. The programme is designed 
to provide employees with awareness of the financial and economic 
factors affecting the Group’s performance and also to provide employees 
with information on employment related matters which may be of interest. 

In addition, regular meetings are held with staff and managers, both to 
raise issues and to assist with the two-way flow of information. The Group 
also has an online process which enables employees to express views 
and suggest improvements.

Further education and training
Continuing education, training and development are important to ensure 
the future success of the Group. The Group supports individuals who wish 
to obtain relevant and appropriate further education qualifications and 
reimburses tuition fees up to a specified level. Training needs of all 
employees are also analysed during the annual and half-yearly appraisal 
process, at which time a training plan is agreed as part of each individual’s 
on-going development.

At appropriate times throughout the course of a year, the directors are 
briefed on recent changes to legislation, regulations and codes of 
practice which are relevant to their duties and the operations of the 
Group’s business. Where appropriate, the directors are provided with 
copies of the underlying documentation and/or written summaries of 
the principal changes. 

The board has undertaken a formal and rigorous process for the 
evaluation of its own performance and that of its committees and 
individual directors. Further information with regard to the evaluation 
can be found in the corporate governance report on pages 72 to 79. 

Share option schemes
The directors remain committed to the principle that selected employees 
should be able to participate in the Group’s progress through share-based 
compensation schemes. Details of the Group’s share-based compensation 
schemes are given in note 35. Employees are able to participate in the 
Group’s all employee Sharesave and Employee Stock Purchase Plans.

Details of the interests of the directors and their families in the ordinary 
shares of the Company are given in the Directors’ Remuneration Report 
on page 105.

None of the directors had a material interest in any contract of 
significance to which the Company or a subsidiary was a party during 
the financial period, as disclosed in note 38 “Related party transactions”.

Directors insurance and indemnity provisions
The Company maintains insurance cover for all directors and officers of 
Group companies against liabilities which may be incurred by them while 
acting as directors and officers of any Group company.

During the financial period reported on, and as at the date of this report, 
qualifying third party indemnities are in force under which the Company 
has agreed to indemnify the directors, to the extent permitted by law and 
by the Articles of Association of the Company (the “Articles”), against 
liabilities they may incur in the execution of their duties as directors of the 
Company. A copy of the Articles is available for review at the registered 
office of the Company. 

Substantial shareholding
At 31 October 2018 the following percentage interests in the ordinary 
share capital of the Company, required to be disclosed under the FCA’s 
Disclosure and Transparency Rules, have been notified to the Company:

Name of holder
Dodge & Cox
FMR LLC
BlackRock Inc.
Causeway Capital Management LLC

Ordinary shares of 
10 pence each
61,313,932
29,272,034
24,394,293
22,050,026

Percentage of 
issued capital
14.05%
6.72%
5.58%
5.05%

The following changes in the interests disclosed to the Company have 
been notified between 31 October 2018 and 20 February 2019:

• On 21 November 2018, Dodge & Cox disclosed that their percentage 
interest in the ordinary share capital of the Company has increased to 
15.01% (63,751,164 ordinary shares); and 

• On 6 February 2019, FMR LLC disclosed that their percentage interest 
in the ordinary share capital of the Company has increased to 7.00% 
(29,062,788 ordinary shares); and

• On 13 February 2019, BlackRock, Inc. disclosed that their percentage 
interest in the ordinary share capital of the Company has increased to 
6.02% (24,999,040 ordinary shares).

Employment policy
The Group endeavours to appoint employees with appropriate skills, 
knowledge and experience for the roles they undertake. The Group has 
a range of policies which are aimed at retaining and providing incentives 
for key staff. Objectives are set for departments and employees derived 
from the Group’s business objectives. Performance is formally measured 
against these objectives twice each year. The Group has a clear and 
well-understood organisational structure and each employee knows his 
or her line of accountability.

Equality and diversity
The Group operates an equal opportunities policy. Full consideration is 
given to all job applicants, irrespective of gender, age, marital status, 
disability, sexuality, race, colour, religion, ethnic or national origin, 
educational and professional backgrounds or religious or political beliefs 
or any other conditions not relevant to the performance of the job, who 
can demonstrate that they have the necessary skills and abilities.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

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01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Directors’ report Continued

Statutory and other disclosures
Greenhouse gas emissions 
All disclosures concerning the Group’s greenhouse gas emissions 
(as required to be disclosed under the Companies Act 2006 (Strategic 
Report and Directors’ Report) Regulations 2013)) are contained in the 
corporate social responsibility report on pages 60 to 67. 

Financial instruments
The exposure of the Group to financial risks, including the use of financial 
instruments and policies for hedging and the exposure to price, credit, cash 
flow and liquidity risk, can be found in note 29 to the financial statements.

Research and development
All expenditure on research is expensed as incurred. The Group 
capitalises development expenditure from the point that all the relevant 
criteria are met. The capitalised cost is then amortised over the useful 
life of the software. During the 18 months ended 31 October 2018, 
$659.4m was charged to the consolidated statement of comprehensive 
income (12 months ended 30 April 2017: $122.8m) in the research and 
development expenses category. This charge is after capitalisation of 
internal development expenditure of approximately $45.3m (12 months 
ended 30 April 2017: $27.7m). Within the cost of sales category 
$42.1m of amortisation of development costs (12 months ended 
30 April 2017: $22.4m) and $293.9m of amortisation of purchased 
intangibles technology (12 months ended 30 April 2017: $69.1m) were 
charged to the consolidated statement of comprehensive income. 

Political donations
The Group’s policy is to make no donations or contributions to political 
parties (12 months ended 30 April 2017: $nil). 

Budgetary process
A comprehensive budgeting system allows managers to submit detailed 
budgets, which are reviewed and amended by executive directors prior to 
submission to the board for approval.

Insurance
The Group keeps under review, with its insurance brokers, its portfolio 
of insurance policies to ensure that the policies are appropriate to the 
Group’s activities and exposure. 

Share capital
The Company has a single class of share capital, which is divided into 
ordinary shares of 10 pence each. During the 18 months ended 
31 October 2018, 1,894,673 ordinary shares were issued to satisfy 
obligations under employee share plans. The Company’s share capital 
was reduced by 16,935,536 ordinary shares following a share capital 
consolidation and 222,166,897 shares were issued as part of the 
acquisition of the HPE Software business. 

On 29 August 2018, the Company announced the commencement of 
a share buy-back programme (note 31). As at 31 October, 8,567,659 
ordinary shares have been bought back on the London Stock Exchange 
and 1,290,546 ADRs were purchased on the New York Stock Exchange 
at total cost of $171.7m, including expenses of $0.5m. These 9,858,205 
ordinary shares are held in treasury.

As at 31 October 2018, the total share capital of the Company was 
436,800,513 ordinary shares, of which 9,858,205 ordinary shares are 
held in treasury. Therefore, the total number of ordinary shares with voting 
rights in the Company as at 31 October 2018 was 426,942,308. 

112

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Rights and obligations attaching to shares
Voting
At a General Meeting of the Company:

• On a show of hands, every member present in person and every proxy 

duly appointed by a member shall have one vote; and

• On a poll, every member who is present in person or by proxy shall have 

one vote for every share of which he or she is the holder.

No member shall be entitled to vote at any general meeting or class 
meeting in respect of shares held by him or her if any call or other sum 
then payable by him or her in respect of that share remains unpaid. 
Currently, all issued shares are fully paid.

Deadlines for voting rights
Full details of the deadlines for exercising voting rights in respect of the 
resolutions to be considered at the Annual General Meeting (the “AGM”) 
to be held on 29 March 2019 are set out in the Notice of Meeting which 
accompanies this report.

Dividends and distributions
Subject to the provisions of the Companies Act 2006, the Company may, 
by ordinary resolution, declare a dividend to be paid to members but no 
dividend shall exceed the amount recommended by the board. The board 
may pay interim dividends and any fixed rate dividend whenever the 
profits of the Company, in the opinion of the board, justifies its payment. 
All dividends shall be apportioned and paid pro-rata according to the 
amounts paid up on the shares.

Transfer of shares
Subject to the Articles, any member may transfer all or any of his or her 
certificated shares in writing by an instrument of transfer in any usual 
form or in any other form which the board may approve. The board may, 
in its absolute discretion and without giving any reasons, decline to register 
any instrument of transfer of a certificated share which is not a fully paid 
share provided that, where any such shares are admitted to the Official 
List maintained by the UK Listing Authority, such discretion may not be 
exercised in such a way as to prevent dealings in the shares of that class 
from taking place on an open and proper basis. The board may decline 
to recognise any instrument of transfer relating to shares in certificated 
form unless it is in respect of only one class of share and is lodged (duly 
stamped if required) at the Transfer Office (as defined in the Articles) 
accompanied by the relevant share certificate(s) and such other evidence 
as the board may reasonably require to show the right of the transferor to 
make the transfer (and, if the instrument of transfer is executed by some 
other person on his behalf, the authority of that person to do so). In the 
case of a transfer of shares in certificated form by a recognised clearing 
house or a nominee of a recognised clearing house or of a recognised 
investment exchange the lodgement of share certificates will only be 
necessary if and to the extent that certificates have been issued in 
respect of the shares in question. The directors may also refuse to 
register an allotment or transfer of shares (whether fully-paid or not) in 
favour of more than four persons jointly. Subject to the Articles and the 
CREST Rules (as defined in the Uncertificated Securities Regulations, 
as amended), and apart from any class of wholly dematerialised security, 
the board may permit any class of shares in the Company to be held in 
uncertificated form and, subject to the Articles, title to uncertificated 
shares to be transferred by means of a relevant system.

Repurchase of shares
The Company obtained shareholder authority at the last AGM (held on 
4 September 2017) to buy back up to 14.99% of its issued share capital. 
At that time, this amounted to 70,298,999 ordinary shares, and the 
authority remains outstanding until the conclusion of the next AGM on 
29 March 2019. The minimum price which must be paid for such shares 
is 10 pence per ordinary share and the maximum price which may be 
paid for each ordinary share shall not be more than the maximum price 
(exclusive of expenses) stipulated by the Listing Rules from time to time 
in force published by the Financial Conduct Authority. Pursuant to this 
authority, the Company purchased 9,858,205 ordinary shares of 10 
pence each for aggregate consideration of approximately $171.7m in the 
period from 29 August 2018 to 31 October 2018. The repurchased 
shares were approximately 2.26 per cent of the issued share capital of 
the Company immediately prior to the commencement of the buy-back 
programme and are being held in treasury.

A further buy-back programme commenced on 6 November 2018 and 
completed on than 13 February 2019 taking total value of shares 
purchased to $400.0m.

Amendment to the Articles
Any amendments to the Articles may be made in accordance with the 
provisions of the Companies Act 2006 by way of special resolution.

Appointment and replacement of directors
Directors shall be no less than three and no more than 11 in number. 
Directors may be appointed by the Company by ordinary resolution or by 
the board. A director appointed by the board holds office only until the 
next AGM and is then eligible for election or re-election by the 
shareholders annually thereafter. 

The board may from time to time appoint one or more directors to hold 
employment or executive office for such period (subject to the 
Companies Act 2006) and on such terms as they may determine and 
may revoke or terminate any such employment.

The Company by ordinary resolution, of which special notice has been 
given and the board, by unanimous decision, may remove any director 
before the expiration of his or her term of office and the Company may 
elect or the board may appoint another person in place of a director so 
removed from office.

The office of director shall be vacated if: 

(i) 

(ii) 

(iii) 

(iv) 

(v) 
(vi)  

 he or she in writing resigns or offers to resign and the directors 
accept such offer; 
 an order is made by any court claiming that he or she is or may 
be suffering from a mental disorder; 
 he or she is absent without permission of the board from 
meetings for six months and the board resolves that his or her 
office is vacated; 
 he or she becomes bankrupt or compounds with his or her 
creditors generally; 
 he or she is prohibited by law from being a director; or 
he or she is removed from office pursuant to the Articles.

Powers of the directors in relation to share capital
The business of the Company will be managed by the board who may 
exercise all the powers of the Company, including the power to authorise 
the issue and/or market purchase of the Company’s shares subject to the 
provisions of the Articles, the Companies Act 2006 and any resolution of 
the Company. 

At the AGM held on 4 September 2017 the directors were granted 
the powers to allot equity securities with a nominal value of up to 
£15,632,421 (provided that any amount in excess of £7,658,063 was 
applied to fully pre-emptive rights issues only) and to make market 
purchases of the Company’s shares on the terms set out above. 

Shares held in the Employee Benefit Trust
Where the trustee of the Micro Focus Employee Benefit Trust (the 
“Trust”) holds shares in the Company and the beneficial interest in those 
shares has not been transferred to a beneficiary of the Trust, the trustee 
may not vote in relation to those shares at any meeting of shareholders 
of the Company.

Significant agreements
The following significant agreements contain provisions entitling the 
counterparties to exercise termination or other rights in the event of 
a change of control of the Company:

Bank borrowings
The Company announced on 21 April 2017 the successful syndication 
of the new credit facilities (the “New Facilities”) on behalf of both MA 
FinanceCo, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary within the Micro Focus Group, 
and Seattle SpinCo, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of HPE that would 
hold the HPE Software business and be merged with a wholly owned 
subsidiary of Micro Focus in the transaction.

The following Facilities were drawn as at 31 October 2018:

• The $1,503.8m senior secured term loan B-2 issued by MA FinanceCo 
LLC is priced at LIBOR plus 2.25% (subject to a LIBOR floor of 0.00%);

• The $2,580.5m senior secured seven-year term loan B issued by 

Seattle SpinCo. Inc. is priced at LIBOR plus 2.50% (subject to a LIBOR 
floor of 0.00%) with an original issue discount of 0.25%;

• The $382.1m senior secured seven-year term loan B-3 issued by MA 
FinanceCo LLC is priced at LIBOR plus 2.50% (subject to a LIBOR 
floor of 0.00%) with an original issue discount of 0.25%; and

• The €466.5m (equivalent to $530.5m) senior secured seven-year term 
loan B issued by MA FinanceCo LLC is priced at EURIBOR plus 2.75% 
(subject to a EURIBOR floor of 0.00%) with an original issue discount 
of 0.25%.

The following Facilities were undrawn as at 31 October 2018:

• A senior secured revolving credit facility of $500.0m (the “Revolving 
Facility”) with an interest rate of 3.25% above LIBOR on amounts 
drawn (and 0.375% on amounts undrawn) thereunder (subject to 
a LIBOR floor of 0.00%).

The only financial covenant attaching to these facilities relates to the 
Revolving Facility, which is subject to an aggregate net leverage covenant 
only in circumstances where more than 35% of the Revolving Facility is 
outstanding at a fiscal quarter end. At 31 October 2018, $nil of the 
Revolving Facility was drawn together with $4,996.9m of Term Loans 
giving gross debt of $4,996.9m drawn. As a covenant test is only 
applicable when the Revolving Facility is drawn down by 35% or more, 
and $nil of Revolving Facility was drawn at 31 October 2018, no covenant 
test is applicable

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

113

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Directors’ report Continued

SUSE Disposal
On 2 July 2018, the Group announced the proposed sale of the 
SUSE business segment to Blitz 18-679 GmbH, a newly incorporated 
indirectly wholly-owned subsidiary of EQTVIII SCSp which is advised by 
EQT Partners. The total cash consideration of $2.535bn is on a cash 
and debt free basis and subject to normalisation of working capital. 

On 21 August 2018, Shareholders voted to approve the proposed 
transaction whereby the Company has agreed to sell its SUSE business 
segment to Marcel Bidco GmbH, a newly incorporated, wholly-owned 
subsidiary of EQTVIII SCSp, for a total cash consideration of approximately 
$2.535bn, subject to customary closing adjustments. Following this vote, 
all applicable antitrust, competition, merger control and governmental 
clearances have been obtained. Completion of the transaction is now 
only conditional upon completing the carve out of the SUSE business 
segment from the rest of the Micro Focus Group (and certain related 
matters) and it is currently anticipated that this will be satisfied such that 
the transaction will complete in the first calendar quarter of 2019. As set 
out in the circular to shareholders in advance of the vote, net sale 
proceeds after tax and customary closing adjustments are estimated to 
be $2.06bn and these funds will be used to make a mandatory debt 
repayment in accordance with the Credit Agreement. It is intended that 
the balance will be returned to shareholders (“Return of Value”). A circular 
to shareholders in respect of the Return of Value will be despatched in 
due course.

Due to the proposed sale and subsequent shareholder approval, the 
SUSE business segment has been treated as discontinued in these 
financial statements (note 19). 

The SUSE Business, a pioneer in Open Source software, develops, 
markets and supports an enterprise grade Linux operating system, Open 
Source software-defined infrastructure and application delivery solutions 
that give enterprises greater control and flexibility over their IT systems.

Micro Focus believes the disposal consideration represents a highly 
attractive enterprise valuation for the SUSE business at approximately 
7.9x revenue and 26.7x Adjusted Operating Profit of the SUSE Business 
for the 12 months ended 31 October 2017. Micro Focus believes EQT 
provides a strong long-term investor for the SUSE Business and allows 
Micro Focus to continue to focus upon its longstanding and consistent 
strategy of delivering value to customers and shareholders through 
effective management of infrastructure software assets in an increasingly 
consolidating sector.

The strategic report does not contain any information about persons with 
whom the Company has contractual or other arrangements, which are 
essential to the business of the Company as, in the view of the directors, 
there are no such arrangements.

Branches
The Group continues to operate overseas branches or representative 
offices in Chile, Denmark, Finland, Hong Kong, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, 
Portugal, Puerto Rico, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, the 
United Arab Emirates and the People’s Republic of China.

Annual General Meeting 
The notice convening the AGM of the Company together with the 
explanatory notes on the resolutions proposed at the AGM accompanies 
this report. The meeting will be held at the Company’s Headquarters at 
The Lawn, 22-30 Old Bath Road, Newbury, Berkshire, RG14 1QN on 
29 March 2019 at 10 am (UK time). 

114

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Independent auditor and disclosure of information to auditor
So far as they are aware, the directors at the date of this report confirm 
that there is no relevant audit information (that is, information needed by 
the Company’s auditor in connection with preparing their report) of which 
the Company’s auditor is unaware and that the directors have taken all 
reasonable steps that they ought to have taken as directors in order to 
make themselves aware of any relevant audit information and to establish 
that the Company’s auditor is aware of that information.

KPMG LLP have indicated their willingness to continue as the auditor of 
the Group and a resolution regarding their appointment will be proposed 
at the AGM.

Going concern
The directors, having made enquiries and produced a Viability Statement 
(page 59), consider that the Company and the Group have adequate 
resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future 
and therefore it is appropriate to maintain the going concern basis in 
preparing the financial statements.

Post balance sheet events
Post balance sheet events have been reported in note 41 in this Annual 
Report and Accounts.

Statement of directors’ responsibilities in respect of the 
financial statements
The directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Report and the 
Group and parent Company financial statements in accordance with 
applicable law and regulations. 

Company law requires the directors to prepare financial statements for 
each financial year. Under that law the directors have prepared the Group 
financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting 
Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board 
(“IASB”) and in conformity with IFRS as adopted by the European Union 
(collectively “IFRS”) and Company financial statements in accordance 
with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United 
Kingdom Accounting Standards, comprising FRS 102 “The Financial 
Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland”, and 
applicable law). 

Under company law, the directors must not approve the financial 
statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of 
the state of affairs of the Group and parent Company and of their profit or 
loss for that period. In preparing each of the Group and parent Company 
financial statements, the directors are required to: 

• select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently; 
• make judgements and estimates that are reasonable, relevant and 

reliable; 

• state whether they have been prepared in accordance with IFRSs as 

adopted by the EU; 

• assess the Group and parent Company’s ability to continue as a going 

concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern; and 

• use the going concern basis of accounting unless they either intend to 
liquidate the Group or the parent Company or to cease operations or 
have no realistic alternative but to do so. 

The directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records 
that are sufficient to show and explain the parent Company’s transactions 
and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position 
of the parent Company and enable them to ensure that its financial 
statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are responsible 
for such internal control as they determine is necessary to enable the 
preparation of financial statements that are free from material 
misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and have general 
responsibility for taking such steps as are reasonably open to them to 
safeguard the assets of the Group and to prevent and detect fraud and 
other irregularities. 

Under applicable law and regulations, the directors are also responsible 
for preparing a Strategic Report, Directors’ Report, Directors’ 
Remuneration Report and Corporate Governance Statement that 
complies with that law and those regulations. 

The directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the 
corporate and financial information included on the Company’s website. 
Legislation in the UK governing the preparation and dissemination of 
financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions. 

Responsibility statement of the directors in respect of the 
annual financial report 
We confirm that to the best of our knowledge: 

• the financial statements, prepared in accordance with the applicable 
set of accounting standards, give a true and fair view of the assets, 
liabilities, financial position and profit or loss of the Company and the 
undertakings included in the consolidation taken as a whole; and 
• the strategic report and Directors’ report include a fair review of the 

development and performance of the business and the position of the 
issuer and the undertakings included in the consolidation taken as a 
whole, together with a description of the principal risks and uncertainties 
that they face. 

We consider the Annual Report and Accounts, taken as a whole, is fair, 
balanced and understandable and provides the information necessary for 
shareholders to assess the Group’s position and performance, business 
model and strategy. 

By order of the board,

Jane Smithard
Company Secretary
20 February 2019

Micro Focus International plc
Registered office:
The Lawn 
22-30 Old Bath Road
Newbury
Berkshire RG14 1QN
Registered in England
Company number: 5134647

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

115

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Consolidated financial statements and notes

117
128
134
136
138
140
141
151

Alternative Performance Measures
Independent auditor’s report to the members of Micro Focus International plc
Consolidated statements of comprehensive income 
Consolidated statement of financial position
Consolidated statement of changes in equity
Consolidated statement of cash flows
Summary of significant accounting policies
Notes to the consolidated financial statements

116

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Alternative Performance Measures

The Group uses certain measures to assess the financial performance of its business. These measures are termed “Alternative Performance Measures” 
because they exclude amounts that are included in, or include amounts that are excluded from, the most directly comparable measure calculated and 
presented in accordance with IFRS, or are calculated using financial measures that are not calculated in accordance with IFRS.

The Group uses such measures to measure operating performance and liquidity in presentations to the board and as a basis for strategic planning 
and forecasting, as well as monitoring certain aspects of its operating cash flow and liquidity. The Group believes that these and similar measures are 
used widely by certain investors, securities analysts and other interested parties as supplemental measures of performance and liquidity.

The Alternative Performance Measures may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures used by other companies and have limitations as 
analytical tools and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of the Group’s operating results as reported under IFRS.

An explanation of the relevance of each of the Alternative Performance Measures, a reconciliation of the Alternative Performance Measures to the 
most directly comparable measures calculated and presented in accordance with IFRS and a discussion of their limitations is set out below. The Group 
does not regard these Alternative Performance Measures as a substitute for, or superior to, the equivalent measures calculated and presented in 
accordance with IFRS.

Unaudited reporting periods
The Group has reported unaudited results for the 12 months ended 31 October 2018 with a comparative period of the 12 months ended 
31 October 2017. This reflects the new year-end for the Group of the 31 October and provides a more meaningful basis on which to discuss the 
results of the Group.

1. Consolidated statement of comprehensive income
12 months to 31 October 2018 (unaudited)
The 12 months to 31 October 2018 results have been calculated by taking the six month results to 31 October 2017, after adjusting for discontinued 
operation, from the 18 month results to 31 October 2018.

Revenue
Cost of sales

Gross profit
Selling and distribution costs
Research and development expenses
Administrative expenses

Operating profit

Share of results of associates

 Finance costs
 Finance income

Net finance costs

Profit/(loss) before tax
Taxation

Profit from continuing operations
Profit from discontinued operation (attributable to equity shareholders of 
the Company)

Profit for the period

Operating profit (before exceptional items)
Exceptional items

18 months
ended
31 October 2018

as reported
$’000
4,754,398
(1,259,306)

3,495,092
(1,670,000)
(659,413)
(788,855)

Six months
ended
31 October 2017

Transfer to 
discontinued 
operation
$’000
(164,440)
9,864

(154,576)
51,572
41,812
27,627

 as reported
$’000
1,234,520
(273,893)

960,627
(398,638)
(173,639)
(168,390)

12 months
ended
31 October 2018

restated
$’000
1,070,080
(264,029)

806,051
(347,066)
(131,827)
(140,763)

restated
$’000
3,684,318
(995,277)

2,689,041
(1,322,934)
(527,586)
(648,092)

376,824

219,960

(33,565)

186,395

190,429

–

(438)

438

–

–

(350,366)
7,654

(342,712)

34,112
673,081

707,193

76,940

784,133

914,980
(538,156)

(75,487)
1,699

(73,788)

145,734
(39,129)

106,605

–
–

–

(33,127)
11,688

(21,439)

(75,487)
1,699

(274,879)
5,955

(73,788)

(268,924)

112,607
(27,441)

(78,495)
700,522

85,166

622,027

–

21,439

21,439

106,605

318,440
(98,480)

–

106,605

(33,565)
–

284,875
(98,480)

55,501

677,528

630,105
(439,676)

Operating profit

376,824

219,960

(33,565)

186,395

190,429

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

117

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Alternative Performance Measures
continued

Unaudited reporting periods continued
1. Consolidated statement of comprehensive income continued
12 months to 31 October 2017 (unaudited)
The 12 months to 31 October 2017 results have been calculated by taking the 12 months results to 30 April 2017 less the six months to 31 October 
2016 and adding the six months to 31 October 2017, after adjusting all periods for discontinued operation.

12 months
ended
30 April
2017

Six months
ended
31 October
2016

Six months
ended
31 October
2017

as
reported
$’000
1,380,702
(237,169)

Transfer to 
discontinued 
operation
$’000

restated
$’000
(303,429) 1,077,273
20,757 (216,412)

 as 
reported
$’000
684,743
(123,440)

Transfer to 
discontinued 
operation
$’000

restated
$’000
(147,432) 537,311
(113,182)

10,258

as
reported
$’000
1,234,520
(273,893)

Transfer to 
discontinued
operation
$’000

restated
$’000
(164,440) 1,070,080
9,864 (264,029)

12 months 
ended
31 October 
2017

Total
$’000
1,610,042
(367,259)

1,143,533

(282,672) 860,861

561,203

(137,174) 424,129

960,627

(154,576) 806,051

1,242,783

(467,084)

103,951 (363,133)

(218,528)

47,816

(170,712)

(398,638)

51,572 (347,066)

(539,487)

(180,104)

57,280 (122,824)

(86,390)

25,593

(60,797)

(173,639)

41,812

(131,827)

(193,854)

(202,902)

55,390

(147,512)

(93,099)

26,491

(66,608)

(168,390)

27,627 (140,763)

(221,667)

Revenue
Cost of sales

Gross profit
Selling and 
distribution costs
Research and 
development 
expenses
Administrative 
expenses

Operating profit

293,443

(66,051) 227,392

163,286

(37,274) 126,012

219,960

(33,565) 186,395

287,775

Share of results 
of associates and 
gain on dilution 
of investment

(1,254)

1,254

–

(1,127)

1,127

–

(438)

438

–

–

 Finance costs
 Finance income

(96,824)
979

Net finance costs

(95,845)

–
–

–

(96,824)
979

(49,455)
502

(95,845)

(48,953)

–
–

–

(49,455)
502

(75,487)
1,699

(48,953)

(73,788)

–
–

–

(75,487)
1,699

(122,856)
2,176

(73,788)

(120,680)

Profit/(loss) 
before tax
Taxation

Profit from 
continuing 
operations
Profit from 
discontinued 
operation 
(attributable to 
equity shareholders 
of the Company)

Profit for the 
period

196,344
(38,541)

(64,797) 131,547
(7,464)
31,077

113,206
(22,589)

(36,147)
16,915

77,059
(5,674)

145,734
(39,129)

(33,127)
11,688

112,607
(27,441)

167,095
(29,231)

157,803

(33,720) 124,083

90,617

(19,232)

71,385

106,605

(21,439)

85,166

137,864

–

33,720

33,720

–

19,232

19,232

–

21,439

21,439

35,927

157,803

–

157,803

90,617

–

90,617

106,605

–

106,605

173,791

118

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Unaudited reporting periods continued
2. Consolidated statement of cash flows – 12 months to 31 October 2018 (unaudited)
The 12 months to 31 October 2018 statement of cash flows has been calculated by taking the six month results to 31 October 2017 from the cash 
flow for the 18 months to 31 October 2018.

Cash flows from operating activities
Operating profit
Research and development tax credits
Depreciation
Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment
Amortisation of intangible assets
Share-based compensation charge
Foreign exchange movements
Provisions movements

Cash generated from operations before working capital
Changes in working capital:
Inventories
Trade and other receivables
Payables and other liabilities
Provision utilisation
Deferred income
Pension funding in excess of charge to operating profit

Movement in working capital

Cash generated from operating activities
Interest paid
Bank loan costs
Tax paid

Net cash generated from operating activities
Cash flows from/(used in) investing activities
Payments for intangible assets
Purchase of property, plant and equipment
Finance leases
Interest received
Payment for acquisition of subsidiaries
Net cash acquired with acquisitions

Net cash from/(used in) investing activities

18 months 
ended 
31 October 
2018 
(audited)
$’000
489,779
(2,013)
95,179
4,581
943,210
72,175
(34,505)
142,859

Six months 
ended 
31 October 
2017
(unaudited)
$’000
219,960
(2,185)
16,289
427
198,606
18,302
(4,699)
73,433

12 months 
ended 
31 October 
2018 
(unaudited)
$’000
269,819
172
78,890
4,154
744,604
53,873
(29,806)
69,426

1,711,265

520,133

1,191,132

35
(408,879)
131,333
(145,012)
131,477
4,092

(216)
(231,762)
15,490
(55,489)
21,607
3,129

251
(177,117)
115,843
(89,523)
109,870
963

(286,954)

(247,241)

(39,713)

1,424,311
(301,791)
(101,159)
(99,490)

272,892
(82,341)
(90,319)
(20,472)

1,151,419
(219,450)
(10,840)
(79,018)

921,871

79,760

842,111

(92,115)
(40,091)
(735)
9,224
(19,260)
321,668

(35,650)
(9,845)
–
1,699
–
320,729

(56,465)
(30,246)
(735)
7,525
(19,260)
939

178,691

276,933

(98,242)

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

119

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Alternative Performance Measures
continued

Unaudited reporting periods continued
2. Consolidated statement of cash flows – 12 months to 31 October 2018 (unaudited) continued

Cash flows from operating activities continued
Cash flows (used in)/from financing activities
Investment in non-controlling interest
Proceeds from issue of ordinary share capital
Purchase of treasury shares
Return of Value paid to shareholders
Repayment of working capital in respect of the HPE Software business acquisition
Repayment of bank borrowings
Proceeds from bank borrowings
Dividends paid to owners

Net cash (used in)/from financing activities
Effects of exchange rate changes

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

Reclassification to current assets classified as held for sale

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

18 months 
ended 
31 October 
2018 
(audited)
$’000

Six months 
ended 
31 October 
2017
(unaudited)
$’000

12 months 
ended 
31 October 
2018 
(unaudited)
$’000

(3)
5,750
(171,710)
(500,000)
(225,800)
(252,936)
1,043,815
(542,161)

(643,045)
15,302

472,819
150,983

623,802
(2,906)

–
1,161
–
(500,000)
–
(215,000)
1,043,815
(133,889)

196,087
26,609

579,389
150,983

730,372
–

(3)
4,589
(171,710)
–
(225,800)
(37,936)
–
(408,272)

(839,132)
(11,307)

(106,570)
730,372

623,802
(2,906)

620,896

730,372

620,896

120

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

3. Impact of deferred revenue haircut
The following table shows the impact of the acquisition accounting adjustment of deferred revenue haircut (i.e. the unwinding of fair value adjustment 
to acquired deferred revenue) on reported revenues.

Revenue before deferred revenue haircut
Unwinding of fair value adjustment to acquired deferred 
revenue

18 months ended
31 October 2018
(audited)

12 months ended
30 April 2017
(audited)

Micro
Focus
$’000
4,815,460

SUSE
$’000
539,797

Total
$’000
5,355,257

Micro
 Focus
$’000
1,084,165

SUSE
$’000
306,613

Total
$’000
1,390,778

(61,062)

(1,637)

(62,699)

(6,892)

(3,184)

(10,076)

Revenue 

4,754,398

538,160

5,292,558

1,077,273

303,429

1,380,702

Revenue before deferred revenue haircut
Unwinding of fair value adjustment to acquired deferred 
revenue

12 months ended
31 October 2018
(unaudited)

12 months ended
31 October 2017
(unaudited)

Micro
Focus
$’000
3,719,094

SUSE
$’000
374,534

Total
$’000
4,093,628

Micro
 Focus
$’000
1,638,693

SUSE
$’000
322,558

Total
$’000
1,961,251

(34,776)

(814)

(35,590)

(28,651)

(2,121)

(30,772)

Revenue 

3,684,318

373,720

4,058,038

1,610,042

320,437

1,930,479

4. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA
EBITDA is defined as net earnings before finance costs, finance income, taxation, share of results of associates, depreciation of property, plant and 
equipment, and amortisation of intangible assets. The Group presents EBITDA because it is widely used by securities analysts, investors and other 
interested parties to evaluate the profitability of companies. EBITDA eliminates potential differences in performance caused by variations in capital 
structures (affecting net finance costs), tax positions (such as the availability of net operating losses against which to relieve taxable profits), the cost 
and age of tangible assets (affecting relative depreciation expense) and the extent to which intangible assets are identifiable (affecting relative 
amortisation expense).

The Group defines Adjusted EBITDA as comprising of EBITDA (as defined above), adjusted for exceptional items, share based compensation, product 
development intangible cost capitalised and foreign exchange gains/losses. Adjusted EBITDA is the primary measure used internally to measure 
performance and to incentivise and reward employees.

Adjusted EBITDA Margin refers to each measure defined above as a percentage of actual revenue recorded in accordance with IFRS for the period.

Adjusted EBITDA is a key profit measure used by the board to assess the underlying financial performance of the Group. Adjusted EBITDA is stated 
before the following items for the following reasons:
• Exceptional items, as set out in note 4, are excluded by virtue of their size, nature or incidence, in order to show the underlying business performance 

of the Group.

• Share-based payment charges are excluded from the calculation of Adjusted EBITDA because these represent a non-cash accounting charge for 
transactions that could otherwise have been settled in cash or not be limited to employee compensation. These charges also represent long-term 
incentives designed for long-term employee retention, rather than reflecting the short-term underlying operations of the Group’s business. The 
directors acknowledge that there is an ongoing debate on the add-back of share-based payment charges but believe that as they are not included in 
the analysis of segment performance used by the Chief Operating Decision Maker and their add-back is consistent with metrics used by a number 
of other companies in the technology sector, that this treatment remains appropriate.

• Charges for the amortisation of purchased intangibles are excluded from the calculation of Adjusted EBITDA. This is because these charges are 

based on judgements about their value and economic life, are the result of the application of acquisition accounting rather than core operations, and 
whilst revenue recognised in the income statement does benefit from the underlying intangibles that has been acquired, the amortisation costs bear 
no relation to the Group’s underlying ongoing operational performance. In addition, amortisation of acquired intangibles is not included in the analysis 
of segment performance used by the Chief Operating Decision Maker.

• We exclude foreign exchange movements from Adjusted EBITDA in order to exclude foreign exchange volatility when evaluating the underlying 

performance of the business.

• We deduct from EBITDA, actual spend on product development costs during the period as this reflects the required underlying expenditure. This is 
because the capitalisation and subsequent amortisation of such costs are based on judgements about whether they meet the capitalisation criteria 
set out in IAS38 “Intangible Assets” and on the period of their estimated economic benefit. In addition, product development costs for the period are 
included in the analysis of segment performance used by the Chief Operating Decision Maker. 

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

121

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Alternative Performance Measures
continued

4. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA continued
The following table is a reconciliation from profit for the period to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA:

Profit for the period
Finance costs
Finance income
Taxation
Share of results of associates
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment
Amortisation of intangible assets

EBITDA
Exceptional items (reported in Operating profit)
Share-based compensation charge
Product development intangible costs capitalised
Foreign exchange (gain)/loss

Adjusted EBITDA

Revenue
Adjusted EBITDA Margin

Profit for the period
Finance costs
Finance income
Taxation
Share of results of associates
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment
Amortisation of intangible assets

EBITDA
Exceptional items (reported in Operating profit)
Share-based compensation charge
Product development intangible costs capitalised
Foreign exchange (gain)/loss

Adjusted EBITDA

Revenue
Adjusted EBITDA Margin

18 months ended
31 October 2018
(audited)

Continuing 
operations
$’000
707,193
350,366
(7,654)
(673,081)
–
88,611
903,008

1,368,443
538,156
64,284
(44,350)
(37,292)

Discontinued 
operation
$’000
76,940
–
–
34,206
1,809
6,568
40,202

159,725
–
7,891
–
2,787

Total
$’000
784,133
350,366
(7,654)
(638,875)
1,809
95,179
943,210

1,528,168
538,156
72,175
(44,350)
(34,505)

12 months ended
30 April 2017
(audited)

Discontinued 
operation
$’000
33,720
–
–
31,077
1,254
2,090
29,683

97,824
–
3,043
–
(1,989)

Continuing 
operations
$’000
124,083
96,824
(979)
7,464
–
9,704
206,751

443,847
97,258
31,463
(27,664)
(2,901)

Total
$’000
157,803
96,824
(979)
38,541
1,254
11,794
236,434

541,671
97,258
34,506
(27,664)
(4,890)

1,889,241

170,403

2,059,644

542,003

98,878

640,881

4,754,398
39.7%

538,160
31.7%

5,292,558
38.9%

1,077,273
50.3%

303,429
32.6%

1,380,702
46.4%

12 months ended
31 October 2018
(unaudited)

Continuing 
operations
$’000
622,027
274,879
(5,955)
(700,522)
–
73,621
720,008

984,058
439,676
47,503
(27,488)
(30,158)

Discontinued 
operation
$’000
55,501
–
–
22,518
1,371
5,269
24,596

109,255
–
6,370
–
352

Total
$’000
677,528
274,879
(5,955)
(678,004)
1,371
78,890
744,604

1,093,313
439,676
53,873
(27,488)
(29,806)

12 months ended
31 October 2017
(unaudited)

Discontinued 
operation
$’000
35,927
–
–
25,850
438
2,436
30,455

95,106
–
3,042
–
1,735

Continuing 
operations
$’000
137,864
122,856
(2,176)
29,231
–
19,935
285,500

593,210
154,690
34,245
(29,494)
(2,054)

Total
$’000
173,791
122,856
(2,176)
55,081
438
22,371
315,955

688,316
154,690
37,287
(29,494)
(319)

1,413,591

115,977

1,529,568

750,597

99,883

850,480

3,684,318
38.4%

373,720
31.0%

4,058,038
37.7%

1,610,042
46.6%

320,437
31.2%

1,930,479
44.1%

Exceptional items are those significant items which are separately disclosed by virtue of their size, nature or incidence to enable a full understanding 
of the Group’s financial performance. These items are collectively totalled and identified as “exceptional items” (note 4).

122

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

5. Adjusted Profit before tax
Adjusted Profit before tax is defined as profit before tax excluding the effects of share-based compensation, the amortisation of purchased intangible 
assets, and all exceptional items. These items are individually material items that are not considered to be representative of the performance of the 
Group. Adjusted Profit before tax is only presented on a consolidated basis because management believes it is important to the understanding of the 
Group’s effective tax rate. When presented on a consolidated basis, Adjusted Profit before tax is an Alternative Performance Measure.

The following table is a reconciliation from profit before tax for the period to Adjusted Profit before tax:

(Loss)/Profit before tax
Share-based compensation charge
Amortisation of purchased intangibles
Exceptional items

Adjusting items

Adjusted Profit before tax

(Loss)/Profit before tax
Share-based compensation charge
Amortisation of purchased intangibles
Exceptional items

Adjusting items

Adjusted Profit before tax

12 months ended
30 April 2017
(audited)

Discontinued 
operation
$’000
64,797
3,043
29,578
–

32,621

97,418

Continuing 
operations
$’000
131,547
31,463
183,283
97,258

312,004

443,551

Total
$’000
196,344
34,506
212,861
97,258

344,625

540,969

18 months ended
31 October 2018
(audited)

Continuing 
operations
$’000
34,112
64,284
830,319
543,929

Discontinued 
operation 
$’000
111,146
7,891
39,437
–

Total
$’000
145,258
72,175
869,756
543,929

1,438,532

47,328

1,485,860

1,472,644

158,474

1,631,118

12 months ended
31 October 2018
(unaudited)

Continuing 
operations
$’000
(78,495)
47,503
661,630
439,676

Discontinued 
operation 
$’000
78,019
6,370
24,648
–

Total
$’000
(476)
53,873
686,278
439,676

1,148,809

31,018

1,179,827

1,070,314

109,037

1,179,351

6. Adjusted Effective Tax Rate
The tax charge on Adjusted Profit before tax for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 was $346.9m (12 months ended 30 April 2017: $83.5m). 
This represents an Adjusted Effective Tax Rate (“Adjusted ETR”), calculated as the tax charge on Adjusted Profit divided by the Adjusted Profit of 
23.6% (12 months ended 30 April 2017: 18.8%).

Effective tax rate (continuing operations)
Profit before tax
Taxation

Profit after tax

Effective tax rate

Actual
$m
34.1
673.1

707.2

(1,973.9)%

18 months ended
31 October 2018
(audited)

Adjusting 
items
$m
1,438.5
(327.7)

Exceptional 
tax items
$m
–
(692.3)

1,110.8

(692.3)

Adjusted
measures
$m
1,472.6
(346.9)

1,125.7

23.6%

12 months ended
30 April 2017 
(audited)

Adjusting  

items
$m
312.0
(76.0)

236.0

Actual
$m
131.6
(7.5)

124.1

5.7%

Adjusted
measures
$m
443.6
(83.5)

360.1

18.8%

In computing Adjusted Profit before tax for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018, $1,438.5m of adjusting items have been added back and the 
associated tax is $327.7m (see Adjusted Profit before tax section above). Exceptional tax items of $692.3m (2017: $nil) shown above relate to the 
impact of US tax reforms, comprised of a credit of $930.6m in respect of the re-measurement of deferred tax liabilities due to the reduction of the 
US federal tax rate from 35% to 21% and a transition tax charge of $238.3m payable over eight years.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

123

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Alternative Performance Measures
continued

7. Adjusted Earnings per Share and Diluted Adjusted Earnings per Share
The Adjusted Earnings per Share (“EPS”) is defined as Basic EPS where the earnings attributable to ordinary shareholders are adjusted by adding 
back all exceptional items, share-based compensation charge and the amortisation of purchased intangibles because they are individually or 
collectively material items that are not considered to be representative of the trading performance of the Group. These are presented as management 
believe they are important to understanding the change in the Group’s EPS and is consistent with adjustments as made by our peers.

18 months 
ended
31 October 
2018
(audited)

Restated
12 months
ended
30 April
2017
(audited)

12 months
 ended
31 October 
2018
(unaudited)

181.91
176.92
289.57
281.63

19.79
19.25
29.36
28.56

201.70
196.17
318.93
310.19

136.73
132.98
217.66
211.69

14.88
14.47
22.07
21.46

151.61
147.45
239.73
233.15

54.17
52.31
157.11
151.70

14.71
14.20
24.80
23.95

68.88
66.51
181.91
175.65

41.88
40.44
121.45
117.28

11.37
10.98
19.18
18.52

53.25
51.42
140.63
135.80

143.01
138.94
192.99
187.51

12.76
12.39
18.67
18.14

155.77
151.33
211.66
205.65

106.40
103.37
143.59
139.50

9.49
9.22
13.89
13.50

115.89
112.59
157.48
153.00

CENTS
EPS from continuing operations attributable to the ordinary equity shareholders 
of the Company
Basic EPS – cents
Diluted EPS – cents
Basic Adjusted EPS – cents
Diluted Adjusted EPS – cents

EPS from discontinued operation
Basic EPS – cents
Diluted EPS – cents
Basic Adjusted EPS – cents
Diluted Adjusted EPS – cents

Total EPS attributable to the ordinary equity shareholders of the Company 
Basic EPS – cents
Diluted EPS – cents
Basic Adjusted EPS – cents
Diluted Adjusted EPS – cents

PENCE
EPS from continuing operations attributable to the ordinary equity shareholders 
of the Company
Basic EPS – pence
Diluted EPS – pence
Basic Adjusted EPS – pence
Diluted Adjusted EPS – pence

EPS from discontinued operation
Basic EPS – pence
Diluted EPS – pence
Basic Adjusted EPS – pence
Diluted Adjusted EPS – pence

Total EPS attributable to the ordinary equity shareholders of the Company 
Basic EPS – pence
Diluted EPS – pence
Basic Adjusted EPS – pence
Diluted Adjusted EPS – pence

124

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

7. Adjusted Earnings per Share and Diluted Adjusted Earnings per Share continued

Profit for the period
Non-controlling interests

Earnings attributable to ordinary shareholders
  From continuing operations
  From discontinued operation

Earnings attributable to ordinary shareholders
Adjusting items:
Exceptional items
Share-based compensation charge
Amortisation of purchased intangibles

Tax relating to above adjusting items and exceptional tax credit in the period

Adjusted earnings attributable to ordinary shareholders

  From continuing operations
  From discontinued operation

Adjusted earnings attributable to ordinary shareholders

Weighted average number of shares:
Basic
Effect of dilutive securities – Options

Diluted

18 months 
ended
31 October
 2018
(audited)
$’000
784,133
(85)

784,048
707,108
76,940

784,048

543,929
72,175
869,756

12 months
ended
30 April
2017
(audited)
$’000
157,803
103

157,906
124,186
33,720

157,906

97,258
34,506
212,861

12 months
 ended
31 October 
2018
(unaudited)
$’000
677,528
219

677,747
622,246
55,501

677,747

439,676
53,873
686,278

1,485,860
(1,030,167)

344,625
(85,527)

1,179,827
(936,614)

1,239,741

417,004

920,960

1,125,612
114,129

360,143
56,861

839,707
81,253

1,239,741

417,004

920,960

Number
388,717
10,963

Number
229,238
8,165

Number
435,105
12,739

399,680

237,403

447,844

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

125

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Alternative Performance Measures
continued

7. Adjusted Earnings per Share and Diluted Adjusted Earnings per Share continued

Adjusting items:
Exceptional items
Share-based compensation charge
Amortisation of purchased intangibles

Tax relating to above adjusting items and  
exceptional tax credit in the period

Adjusting items:
Exceptional items
Share-based compensation charge
Amortisation of purchased intangibles

Tax relating to above adjusting items and  
exceptional tax credit in the period

18 months ended 31 October 2018
(audited)

Restated 12 months ended 30 April 2017
(audited)

Continuing 
operations
$’000

Discontinued 
operation 
$’000

Total
$’000

Continuing 
operations
$’000

Discontinued 
operation
$’000

543,929
64,284
830,319

–
7,891
39,437

543,929
72,175
869,756

1,438,532

47,328

1,485,860

97,258
31,463
183,283

312,004

–
3,043
29,578

32,621

Total
$’000

97,258
34,506
212,861

344,625

(1,020,028)

(10,139)

(1,030,167)

(76,048)

(9,479)

(85,527)

418,504

37,189

455,693

235,956

23,142

259,098

12 months ended 31 October 2018
(unaudited)

Continuing 
operations
$’000

Discontinued 
operation 
$’000

Total
$’000

439,676
47,503
661,630

–
6,370
24,648

439,676
53,873
686,278

1,148,809

31,018

1,179,827

(931,348)

(5,266)

(936,614)

217,461

25,752

243,213

8. Free Cash Flow
Free cash flow is defined as cash generated from operations less interest payments and loan costs, tax, purchase of intangible assets and purchase 
of property, plant and equipment. This is presented as management believe it is important to understanding the Group’s cash flow.

Cash generated from operating activities
Less: 
Interest payments
Bank loan costs
Tax payments
Purchase of intangible assets
Purchase of property, plant and equipment

Free cash flow

9. Net Debt
Net debt is defined as cash and cash equivalents less net borrowings and finance lease obligations.

Borrowings
Cash and cash equivalents
Finance lease obligations

Net debt

126

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

18 months
ended
31 October
 2018
(audited)
$’000
1,424,311

(301,791)
(101,159)
(99,490)
(92,115)
(40,091)

12 months
ended
30 April
2017
(audited)
$’000
564,792

(81,115)
(6,654)
(24,644)
(31,438)
(11,727)

12 months
ended
31 October
2018
(unaudited)
$’000
1,151,419

(219,450)
(10,840)
(79,018)
(56,465)
(30,246)

789,665

409,214

755,400

31 October 
2018
(audited)
$’000
(4,845,880)
620,896
(28,483)

30 April
2017
(audited)
$’000
(1,561,536)
150,983
–

(4,253,467)

(1,410,553)

10. Constant Currency
The Group’s reporting currency is the US dollar however, the Group’s significant international operations give rise to fluctuations in foreign exchange 
rates. To neutralise foreign exchange impact and to better illustrate the underlying change in results from one year to the next, the Group has adopted 
the practice of discussing results on an as reported basis and in constant currency.

The Group uses US dollar-based constant currency models to measure performance. These are calculated by restating the results of the Group for 
the comparable period at the same average exchange rates as those used in reported results for the current period. This gives a US dollar 
denominated income statement, which excludes any variances attributable to foreign exchange rate movements.

The most important foreign currencies for the Group are: Pounds Sterling, the Euro, Israeli Shekel and Canadian Dollar. The exchange rates used are 
as follows:

£1 = $
€1 = $
C$ = $
ILS = $

18 months ended
 31 October 2018

12 months ended
30 April 2017

12 months ended
31 October 2018

12 months ended
31 October 2017

Average
1.33
1.18
0.78
0.28

Closing
1.27
1.14
0.76
0.27

Average
1.29
1.09
0.76
0.26

Closing
1.29
1.09
0.73
0.28

Average
1.34
1.18
0.78
0.28

Closing
1.27
1.14
0.76
0.27

Average
1.27
1.11
0.76
0.27

Closing
1.33
1.16
0.78
0.28

11. Pro-forma Revenue and Pro-forma Adjusted EBITDA
Pro-forma Revenue is defined as the revenue for the existing Micro Focus Group and the HPE Software business acquisition for the 12 months to 
31 October 2017, assuming the HPE Software business was part of the Group for the whole period.

Pro-forma Adjusted EBITDA is defined as Adjusted EBITDA (as defined above) for the 12 months to 31 October 2017. The HPE Software business 
pro-forma revenue and Adjusted EBITDA are under US GAAP and the HPE Software business legacy accounting policies, adjusted for divestitures, 
as derived from the HPE Software business management accounts. The Group has provided pro-forma revenue and pro-forma Adjusted EBITDA 
as it provides guidance on the size of the Enlarged Group going forwards.

Pro-forma Revenue for the 12 months ended 31 October 2017

Existing Micro Focus:
Reported revenue for the 12 months ended 30 April 2017
Reported revenue for the 6 months ended 31 October 2016

Revenue for the 6 months ended 30 April 2017
Reported revenue for the 6 months ended 31 October 2017

Pro-forma revenue 12 months ended 31 October 2017
HPE Software business – 12 months to 31 October 2017

Pro-forma Revenue for the 12 months to 31 October 2017

Impact of foreign exchange

Pro-forma constant currency Revenue for the 12 months to 31 October 2017

Pro-forma Adjusted EBITDA for the 12 months ended 31 October 2017

Existing Micro Focus:
Adjusted EBITDA for the 12 months ended 30 April 2017
Adjusted EBITDA for the 6 months ended 31 October 2016

Adjusted EBITDA for the 6 months ended 30 April 2017
Adjusted EBITDA for the 6 months ended 31 October 2017

Pro-forma Adjusted EBITDA 12 months ended 31 October 2017
HPE Software business – 12 months to 31 October 2017

Pro-forma Adjusted EBITDA for the 12 months to 31 October 2017

Adjusted EBITDA Margin

Pro-forma Revenue
(unaudited)
$m

1,380.7
(684.7)

696.0
664.7

1,360.7
2,866.0

4,226.7

60.1

4,286.8

Pro-forma  

Adjusted EBITDA
(unaudited)
$m

640.9
(320.3)

320.6
303.2

623.8
777.3

1,401.1

33.1%

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

127

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Independent auditor’s report to the members of Micro Focus International plc

2 Key audit matters: our assessment of risks of material 
misstatement
Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgement, 
were of most significance in the audit of the financial statements and 
include the most significant assessed risks of material misstatement 
(whether or not due to fraud) identified by us, including those which had 
the greatest effect on: the overall audit strategy; the allocation of 
resources in the audit; and directing the efforts of the engagement team. 
We summarise below the key audit matters, in decreasing order of audit 
significance, in arriving at our audit opinion above, together with our key 
audit procedures to address those matters and, as required for public 
interest entities, our results from those procedures. These matters were 
addressed, and our results are based on procedures undertaken, in the 
context of, and solely for the purpose of, our audit of the financial 
statements as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and 
consequently are incidental to that opinion, and we do not provide a 
separate opinion on these matters.

1 Our opinion is unmodified 
We have audited the financial statements of Micro Focus International plc 
(“the Company”) for the 18 month period ended 31 October 2018, which 
comprise the Consolidated statement of financial position, Consolidated 
statement of comprehensive income, Consolidated statement of cash 
flows, Consolidated statement of changes in equity, Company balance 
sheet, Company statement of changes in equity and Company statement 
of cash flows, and the related notes, including the summary of significant 
accounting policies. 

In our opinion: 

• the financial statements give a true and fair view of the state of the 
Group’s and of the Parent Company’s affairs as at 31 October 2018 
and of the Group’s profit for the 18 month period then ended; 
• the Group financial statements have been properly prepared in 

accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted 
by the European Union; 

• the Parent Company financial statements have been properly prepared 
in accordance with UK accounting standards, including FRS 102 The 
Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of 
Ireland; and 

• the financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the 
requirements of the Companies Act 2006 and, as regards the Group 
financial statements, Article 4 of the IAS Regulation.

Additional opinion in relation to IFRSs as issued by the IASB
As explained in the basis of preparation to the Group financial 
statements, the Group, in addition to complying with its legal obligation to 
apply IFRSs as adopted by the EU, has also applied IFRSs as issued by 
the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB).

In our opinion, the Group financial statements have been properly 
prepared in accordance with IFRSs as issued by the IASB.

Basis for opinion 
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on 
Auditing (UK) (“ISAs (UK)”) and applicable law. Our responsibilities are 
described below. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is 
a sufficient and appropriate basis for our opinion. Our audit opinion is 
consistent with our report to the Audit Committee. 

We were first appointed as auditor by the shareholders on 4 September 
2017. The financial period ended 31 October 2018 is our first 
engagement. We have fulfilled our ethical responsibilities under, and we 
remain independent of the Group in accordance with, UK ethical 
requirements including the FRC Ethical Standard as applied to listed 
public interest entities. No non-audit services prohibited by that standard 
were provided.

128

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Upfront licence revenue – Identification 
of all elements in large multiple element 
arrangements

($1,206,104,000 (total licence revenue))

Refer to page 82 (Audit Committee Report), 
page 142 (accounting policy) and page 153 
(financial disclosures).

Valuation of customer relationship 
and technology intangibles. 

($1,809,000,000 (technology) and 
$4,480,000,000 (customer relationship))

Refer to page 83 (Audit Committee Report), 
page 145 (accounting policy) and page 206 
(financial disclosures). 

The risk

Our response

Subjective judgement
Licence revenue recognition requires 
significant judgement in identifying each 
separate element of the contract (for example 
licence, maintenance, subscription and 
consulting), when sold together in a bundle. 

Our procedures included:

Accounting analysis: We assessed the 
Group’s policy in respect of identification of 
contract elements against the relevant 
accounting standards;

This judgement could materially affect the 
timing and quantum of revenue and profit 
recognised in each period.

We assessed this risk to be greatest in larger 
contracts with licence revenue recognised in 
the period, where there is increased likelihood 
of unusual sales arrangements containing 
bespoke terms, potentially leading to 
unidentified contract elements.

Test of Details: We selected all contracts over 
set thresholds and inspected key documents 
including signed contract, purchase orders, 
delivery of software licences, sales invoices 
and related payment, and the Group’s revenue 
recognition checklist to identify revenue 
elements, and assess the appropriateness of 
the directors’ judgements in determining each 
separate element of the contract (undelivered 
and delivered); and

Assessing transparency: We assessed the 
adequacy of the Group’s critical judgement 
disclosures in respect of licence revenue 
recognition.

Our results 
As a result of our work, we found the Group’s 
licence revenue recognition to be acceptable.

Forecast based valuation
On 1 September 2017, the Group completed 
the acquisition of the software business of 
HPE Inc. As a result, the Group recognised 
total intangible assets of $6,452 million, of 
which $6,289 million relate to customer 
relationship ($4,480m) and technology 
intangibles ($1,809m).

The valuation of these intangibles is subjective 
due to the inherent uncertainty involved in 
forecasting future cash flows. The key 
assumptions used in these forecasts are 
revenue growth rates and EBITDA margin for 
each product portfolio.

The effect of these matters is that, as part of 
our risk assessment, we determined that the 
valuation of acquisition intangibles has a high 
degree of estimation uncertainty, with a 
potential range of reasonable outcomes greater 
than our materiality for the financial statements 
as a whole.

Our procedures included: 

• Our valuation expertise: Use of our own 

valuation specialists to assess the 
appropriateness of the valuation methodology 
applied; 

• Benchmarking assumptions: Comparing 

the Group’s assumptions to externally derived 
publicly available data, in relation to key inputs 
such as revenue growth rates and EBITDA 
margin; and

• Historical comparisons: Challenging the 

reasonableness of the assumptions, 
particularly revenue growth rates and EBITDA 
margin by assessing the historical accuracy 
of the Group’s forecasting and comparing to 
current year performance.

Our results 
As a result of our work, we consider the 
valuation of acquired customer relationships 
and technology intangible assets to be 
acceptable.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

129

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Independent auditor’s report to the members of Micro Focus International plc
continued

The risk

Our response

Complex tax judgements

Refer to page 83 (Audit Committee Report), 
page 146 (accounting policy) and page 157 
(financial disclosures).

Accounting treatment
During the year, the Group has undertaken 
significant structuring activities which have 
complex tax implications.

The effect of these activities is that, as part of 
our risk assessment, we determined that the 
applicability of relevant US tax legislation is an 
area of judgement, which could have a material 
impact on the tax obligations recognised.

The key judgements were in respect of 
whether the internal transfer of certain Group 
companies would attract a certain application 
of tax legislation and over the risk of non-
compliance with specific operational and 
transactional restrictions, which could trigger 
a tax charge or a tax related indemnification 
charge for taxes incurred by HPE.

Presentation appropriateness
The Group separately presents exceptional 
items within the Consolidated Statement of 
Comprehensive Income and in deriving related 
Alternative Performance Measures for the 
period. Adjusted EBITDA for example, which 
excludes exceptional items, is also the principal 
measure that determines the annual cash 
bonus to all members of staff and therefore 
gives rise to a risk of management bias. 

The determination of whether an item should 
be separately disclosed as an exceptional item 
requires judgement on its nature and incidence, 
and its use requires judgement as to whether it 
provides a better understanding of the Group’s 
underlying trading performance. In the current 
period this risk is elevated due to the increased 
volume of transactions affected by this 
classification.

Presentation of exceptional items (before 
tax) 

($543,929,000 (exceptional items before tax))

Refer to page 83 (Audit Committee Report), 
page 143 (accounting policy) and page 155 
(financial disclosures).

Our procedures included: 

Our tax expertise: Using the knowledge and 
experience of our international and local tax 
specialists to: 

• assess the Group’s tax positions relating to 

the key judgements; 

• analyse and challenge the judgements arising 
from structuring activities undertaken by the 
Group;

• establish our own expectation on the 

maximum potential exposure and likelihood 
of a payment being required.

Test of details: Assessing third party tax 
advice received to evaluate the conclusions 
drawn from the advice where relevant to the 
significant exposures faced by the Group; and

Assessing transparency: Assessing the 
adequacy of the Group’s disclosures in respect 
of tax and uncertain tax positions.

Our results 
As a result of our work, we found the complex 
tax judgements relating to Group structuring to 
be acceptable.

Our procedures included: 

Assessing principle: Evaluating the 
appropriateness of the Group’s accounting 
policy for identifying exceptional items, by 
considering this against external regulator 
guidance and relevant accounting standards;

Assessing application: A sample of items 
presented as exceptional were selected to 
assess if their presentation was consistent with 
group policy and consistent with underlying 
documentation; and

Assessing balance: We assessed the 
adequacy of the disclosure of the definition and 
composition of exceptional items (before tax). 

Our results 
As a result of our work, we found the 
presentation of exceptional items (before tax) 
to be acceptable.

130

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

The risk

Our response

Goodwill impairment

($6,805 million)

Refer to page 83 (Audit Committee Report), 
page 144 (accounting policy) and page 160 
(financial disclosures).

Forecast based valuation
Goodwill allocated to the Micro Focus CGU is 
significant and at risk of impairment. The 
estimated recoverable amount is subjective due 
to the inherent uncertainty involved in 
forecasting and discounting future cash flows. 
The key assumption in these forecasts is the 
discount rate applied to the future cash flows.

The effect of these matters is that during our 
audit procedures we determined that the value 
in use of goodwill has a high degree of 
estimation uncertainty, with a potential range 
of reasonable outcomes greater than our 
materiality for the financial statements as a 
whole. The financial statements (note 10) 
disclose the sensitivity estimated by the Group.

Recoverability of amounts owed 
from Group undertakings to the 
Parent Company 

($7,620,506,000 (Amounts owed by Group 
undertakings))

Refer to page 218 (accounting policy) and 
page 223 (financial disclosures).

Low risk, high value
The carrying amount of the amounts owed 
from Group undertakings owed to the Parent 
Company represents 95% of its total assets. 
Their recoverability is not at a high risk of 
significant misstatement or subject to 
significant judgement. However, due to their 
materiality in the context of the Parent Company 
financial statements, this is considered to be 
the area that had the greatest effect on our 
overall Parent Company audit.

Our procedures included:

• Our sector expertise: Evaluating 

assumptions used, in particular those relating 
to the discount rate for the Micro Focus CGU, 
using our own valuation specialist; 

• Benchmarking assumptions: Comparing 

the Group’s assumptions to externally derived 
data in relation to key inputs such as discount 
rates;

• Sensitivity analysis: Performing break even 
analysis on the assumptions noted above; and

• Assessing transparency: Assessing 

whether the Group’s disclosures about the 
sensitivity of the outcome of the impairment 
assessment to changes in the discount rate 
reflected the risks inherent in the valuation 
of goodwill.

Our results 
As a result of our work, we found the Group’s 
resulting estimate of the recoverable amount 
of goodwill to be acceptable.

Our procedures included: 

Tests of detail: In assessing the 
recoverability of these intra Group balances, 
we utilised the work performed over the 
recoverability of goodwill as set out in the 
Key Audit Matter above.

Our results
As a result of our work, we found the Group’s 
assessment of the recoverability of the 
amounts owed by Group undertakings to be 
acceptable.

3 Our application of materiality and an overview of the scope 
of our audit 
Materiality for the Group financial statements as a whole was set at 
$23.5m, determined with reference to a benchmark of total revenue 
from continuing operations of which it represents 0.5%. We consider 
total revenue from continuing operations to be the most appropriate 
benchmark as it provides a more stable measure year on year than 
Group profit before tax.

Materiality for the Parent Company financial statements as a whole was 
set at $19.5m, determined with reference to a benchmark of total assets, 
of which it represents 0.03%.

We agreed to report to the Audit Committee any corrected or uncorrected 
identified misstatements exceeding $1.2m, in addition to other identified 
misstatements that warranted reporting on qualitative grounds.

Of the Group’s 335 reporting components, we subjected 17 to full scope 
audits for Group purposes and one to specified risk-focused audit 
procedures in respect of revenue and related account balances.

The components within the scope of our work accounted for the 
percentages illustrated below.

Total Revenue – 79%
Total Assets – 82%
Total PBTCO – 74%

The Group team instructed component auditors as to the significant 
areas to be covered, including the relevant risks detailed above and the 
information to be reported back. The Group team approved the component 
materialities, which ranged from $1.8m to $14.0m, having regard to the 
mix of size and risk profile of the Group across the components.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

131

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Independent auditor’s report to the members of Micro Focus International plc
continued

The work on 15 of the 18 components was performed by component 
auditors and the rest, including the audit of the Parent Company, was 
performed by the Group team.

The Group team visited fifteen component locations in the United States, 
United Kingdom, Ireland, India, Poland, Netherlands, Mexico and France, 
to assess the audit risk and strategy. During these visits and meetings, 
the findings reported to the Group team were discussed in more detail, 
and any further work required by the Group team was then performed by 
the component auditor.

4 We have nothing to report on going concern 
The directors have prepared the financial statements on the going 
concern basis as they do not intend to liquidate the Company or to cease 
its operations, and as they have concluded that the Company’s financial 
position means that this is realistic. They have also concluded that there 
are no material uncertainties that could have cast significant doubt over 
its ability to continue as a going concern for at least a year from the date 
of approval of the financial statements (“the going concern period”). 

Our responsibility is to conclude on the appropriateness of the directors’ 
conclusions and, had there been a material uncertainty related to going 
concern, to make reference to that in this audit report. However, as we 
cannot predict all future events or conditions and as subsequent events 
may result in outcomes that are inconsistent with judgements that were 
reasonable at the time they were made, the absence of reference to a 
material uncertainty in this auditor’s report is not a guarantee that the 
Company will continue in operation.

In our evaluation of the directors’ conclusions, we considered the inherent 
risks to the Company’s business model and analysed how those risks 
might affect the Company’s financial resources or ability to continue 
operations over the going concern period. The risks that we considered 
most likely to adversely affect the Company’s available financial resources 
over this period were:

• The achievement of budget licence and maintenance revenue in FY19;
• The level of days of sales outstanding;
• Achievement of operational efficiencies; and
• The achievement of Adjusted EBITDA growth.

As these were risks that could potentially cast significant doubt on the 
Company’s ability to continue as a going concern, we considered 
sensitivities over the level of available financial resources indicated by 
the Company’s financial forecasts taking account of reasonably possible 
(but not unrealistic) adverse effects that could arise from these risks 
individually and collectively and evaluated the achievability of the actions 
the directors consider they would take to improve the position should the 
risks materialise.

Based on this work, we are required to report to you if:

• We have anything material to add or draw attention to in relation to the 
directors’ statement on page 141 to the financial statements on the use 
of the going concern basis of accounting with no material uncertainties 
that may cast significant doubt over the Company’s use of that basis 
for a period of at least twelve months from the date of approval of the 
financial statements; or

• The related statement under the Listing Rules set out on page 114 

is materially inconsistent with our audit knowledge.

5 We have nothing to report on the other information in the 
Annual Report
The directors are responsible for the other information presented in the 
Annual Report together with the financial statements. Our opinion on 
the financial statements does not cover the other information and, 
accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion or, except as explicitly 
stated below, any form of assurance conclusion thereon. 

Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, 
consider whether, based on our financial statements audit work, the 
information therein is materially misstated or inconsistent with the 
financial statements or our audit knowledge. Based solely on that work 
we have not identified material misstatements in the other information. 

Strategic report and Directors’ report 
Based solely on our work on the other information: 

• we have not identified material misstatements in the Strategic report 

and the Directors’ report; 

• in our opinion the information given in those reports for the financial 

year is consistent with the financial statements; and 

• in our opinion those reports have been prepared in accordance with 

the Companies Act 2006. 

Directors’ Remuneration report 
In our opinion the part of the Directors’ Remuneration report to be audited 
has been properly prepared in accordance with the Companies Act 2006. 

Disclosures of principal risks and longer-term viability 
Based on the knowledge we acquired during our financial statements 
audit, we have nothing material to add or draw attention to in relation to: 

• the directors’ confirmation within the viability statement that they have 
carried out a robust assessment of the principal risks facing the Group, 
including those that would threaten its business model, future 
performance, solvency and liquidity; 

• the Principal Risks disclosures describing these risks and explaining 

how they are being managed and mitigated; and 

• the directors’ explanation in the viability statement of how they have 

assessed the prospects of the Group, over what period they have done 
so and why they considered that period to be appropriate, and their 
statement as to whether they have a reasonable expectation that the 
Group will be able to continue in operation and meet its liabilities as 
they fall due over the period of their assessment, including any related 
disclosures drawing attention to any necessary qualifications or 
assumptions. 

Under the Listing Rules we are required to review the Viability Statement. 
We have nothing to report in this respect. 

Our work is limited to assessing these matters in the context of only the 
knowledge acquired during our financial statements audit. As we cannot 
predict all future events or conditions and as subsequent events may 
result in outcomes that are inconsistent with judgements that were 
reasonable at the time they were made, the absence of anything to report 
on these statements is not a guarantee as to the Group’s and Company’s 
longer-term viability.

Corporate governance disclosures 
We are required to report to you if:

We have nothing to report in these respects, and we did not identify going 
concern as a key audit matter.

• we have identified material inconsistencies between the knowledge 
we acquired during our financial statements audit and the directors’ 
statement that they consider that the Annual Report and financial 

132

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
We had regard to laws and regulations in areas that directly affect the 
financial statements including financial reporting, company and taxation 
legislation. We considered the extent of compliance with those laws and 
regulations as part of our audit of the Annual Accounts. 

In addition, we considered the impact of laws and regulations in the 
specific areas of anti-bribery and corruption, including the UK Bribery Act 
2010 and the US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act 1977 (as amended). 
With the exception of any known or possible non-compliance, and as 
required by auditing standards, our work in respect of these was limited 
to enquiry of the directors and management. We considered the effect 
of any known or possible non-compliance in these areas as part of our 
audit of the Annual Accounts.

We communicated identified laws and regulations throughout our team 
and remained alert to any indications of non-compliance throughout the 
audit. This included communication from the Group to component audit 
teams of relevant laws and regulations identified at the Group level, with 
a request to report on any indications of potential existence of non-
compliance with relevant laws and regulations (irregularities) in these 
areas, or other areas identified by the component team. 

As with any audit, there remained a higher risk of non-detection of 
non-compliance with relevant laws and regulations (irregularities), 
as these may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, 
misrepresentations, or the override of internal controls. 

8 The purpose of our audit work and to whom we owe our 
responsibilities 
This report is made solely to the Company’s members, as a body, in 
accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006 and 
the terms of our engagement by the Company. Our audit work has been 
undertaken so that we might state to the Company’s members those 
matters we are required to state to them in an auditor’s report, and the 
further matters we are required to state to them in accordance with the 
terms agreed with the Company, and for no other purpose. To the fullest 
extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to 
anyone other than the Company and the Company’s members, as a body, 
for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Tudor Aw 
(Senior Statutory Auditor)
for and on behalf of KPMG LLP
Chartered Accountants and Statutory Auditors
London
20 February 2019

statements taken as a whole is fair, balanced and understandable and 
provides the information necessary for shareholders to assess the 
Group’s position and performance, business model and strategy; or 

• the section of the Annual Report describing the work of the Audit 

Committee does not appropriately address matters communicated by 
us to the Audit Committee.

We are required to report to you if the Corporate Governance Statement 
does not properly disclose a departure from the eleven provisions of the 
UK Corporate Governance Code specified by the Listing Rules for our 
review. 

We have nothing to report in these respects. 

6 We have nothing to report on the other matters on which we 
are required to report by exception 
Under the Companies Act 2006, we are required to report to you if, in our 
opinion: 

• adequate accounting records have not been kept by the Parent 

Company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from 
branches not visited by us; or 

• the Parent Company financial statements and the part of the Directors’ 

Remuneration report to be audited are not in agreement with the 
accounting records and returns; or 

• certain disclosures of directors’ remuneration specified by law are not 

made; or 

• we have not received all the information and explanations we require for 

our audit. 

We have nothing to report in these respects. 

7 Respective responsibilities 
Directors’ responsibilities 
As explained more fully in their statement set out on pages 114 to 115, 
the directors are responsible for: the preparation of the financial statements 
including being satisfied that they give a true and fair view; such internal 
control as they determine is necessary to enable the preparation of 
financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether 
due to fraud or error; assessing the Group and Parent Company’s ability 
to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related 
to going concern; and using the going concern basis of accounting 
unless they either intend to liquidate the Group or the Parent Company 
or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so. 

Auditor’s responsibilities 
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the 
financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, 
whether due to fraud or other irregularities (see below), or error, and to 
issue our opinion in an auditor’s report. Reasonable assurance is a high 
level of assurance, but does not guarantee that an audit conducted in 
accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement 
when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud, other irregularities 
or error and are considered material if, individually or in aggregate, they 
could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of 
users taken on the basis of the financial statements. 

A fuller description of our responsibilities is provided on the FRC’s 
website at www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. 

Irregularities – ability to detect
We identified areas of laws and regulations that could reasonably be 
expected to have a material effect on the financial statements from our 
sector experience and through discussion with the directors and 
management (as required by auditing standards).

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

133

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Consolidated statement of comprehensive income
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018

Continuing operations
Revenue
Cost of sales

Gross profit
Selling and distribution costs
Research and development expenses
Administrative expenses

Operating profit

 Finance costs
 Finance income

Net finance costs

Profit/(loss) before tax
Taxation

18 months ended
31 October 2018

Restated1
12 months ended
30 April 2017

Note
1, 2

Before 
exceptional 
items
$’000
4,754,398
(1,193,898)

3,560,500
(1,630,785)
(642,061)
(372,674)

Exceptional 
items
(note 4)
$’000
–
(65,408)

(65,408)
(39,215)
(17,352)
(416,181)

Total
$’000
4,754,398
(1,259,306)

3,495,092
(1,670,000)
(659,413)
(788,855)

Before 
exceptional 
items
$’000
1,077,273
(213,463)

863,810
(357,654)
(116,032)
(65,474)

Exceptional 
items
(note 4)
$’000
–
(2,949)

(2,949)
(5,479)
(6,792)
(82,038)

Total
$’000
1,077,273
(216,412)

860,861
(363,133)
(122,824)
(147,512)

914,980

(538,156)

376,824

324,650

(97,258)

227,392

6
6

6

7

(344,040)
7,101

(6,326)
553

(350,366)
7,654

(336,939)

(5,773)

(342,712)

578,041
(125,115)

(543,929)
798,196

34,112
673,081

(96,824)
979

(95,845)

228,805
(19,097)

–
–

–

(97,258)
11,633

(96,824)
979

(95,845)

131,547
(7,464)

Profit/(loss) from continuing operations

452,926

254,267

707,193

209,708

(85,625)

124,083

Profit from discontinued operation (attributable to 
equity shareholders of the Company)

Profit/(loss) for the period

Attributable to:
Equity shareholders of the Company
Non-controlling interests

Profit/(loss) for the period

19

76,940

–

76,940

33,720

–

33,720

529,866

254,267

784,133

243,428

(85,625)

157,803

529,781
85

254,267
–

784,048
85

243,531
(103)

(85,625)
–

157,906
(103)

529,866

254,267

784,133

243,428

(85,625)

157,803

1  The comparatives for the 12 months to 30 April 2017 have been restated to reflect the divestiture of the SUSE business segment (note 19).

The accompanying notes form part of the financial statements.

134

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Profit for the period
Other comprehensive income/(expense):
Items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss
Continuing operations:
Actuarial loss on pension schemes liabilities
Actuarial (loss)/gain on non-plan pension assets
Deferred tax movement 
Discontinued operation:
Actuarial (loss)/gain on pension schemes liabilities
Actuarial loss on non-plan pension assets
Deferred tax movement 
Items that may be subsequently reclassified to profit 
or loss
Cash flow hedge movements
Deferred tax movement
Currency translation differences – continuing operations
Currency translation differences – discontinued operation

Other comprehensive income/(expense) for the period

18 months ended
31 October 2018

Restated1
12 months ended
30 April 2017

Before 
exceptional 
items
$’000
529,866

Exceptional 
items
(note 4)
$’000
254,267

Note

Total
$’000
784,133

Before 
exceptional 
items
$’000
243,428

Exceptional 
items
(note 4)
$’000
(85,625)

Total
$’000
157,803

27
27

27
27

33
33

(8,949)
(5,258)
3,754

(1,465)
(529)
527

86,381
(16,413)
(29,456)
713

29,305

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–
–

–

(8,949)
(5,258)
3,754

(1,465)
(529)
527

86,381
(16,413)
(29,456)
713

29,305

(217)
318
(62)

619
(188)
(263)

–
–
(4,942)
(1,011)

(5,746)

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–
–

–

(217)
318
(62)

619
(188)
(263)

–
–
(4,942)
(1,011)

(5,746)

Total comprehensive income/(expense) for the period

559,171

254,267

813,438

237,682

(85,625)

152,057

Attributable to:
Equity shareholders of the Company
Non-controlling interests

559,086
85

254,267
–

813,353
85

237,785
(103)

(85,625)
–

152,160
(103)

Total comprehensive income/(expense) for the period

559,171

254,267

813,438

237,682

(85,625)

152,057

Total comprehensive income attributable to the equity 
shareholders of the Company arises from:
Continuing operations
Discontinued operations

482,985
76,186

254,267
–

737,252
76,186

204,805
32,877

(85,625)
–

119,180
32,877

559,171

254,267

813,438

237,682

(85,625)

152,057

Earnings per share

Earnings per share (cents)

From continuing and discontinued operations 
– basic
– diluted
From continuing operations 
– basic
– diluted
Earnings per share (pence)
From continuing and discontinued operations
– basic
– diluted
From continuing operations
– basic
– diluted

9
9

9
9

9
9

9
9

cents
201.70
196.17

181.91
176.92

pence
151.61
147.45

136.73
132.98

cents
68.88
66.51

54.17
52.31

pence
53.25
51.42

41.88
40.44

1  The comparatives for the 12 months to 30 April 2017 have been restated to reflect the divestiture of the SUSE business segment (note 19).

The accompanying notes form part of the financial statements. 

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

135

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Consolidated statement of financial position
as at 31 October 2018

Non-current assets
Goodwill
Other intangible assets
Property, plant and equipment
Investments in associates
Derivative asset
Long-term pension assets
Other non-current assets

Current assets
Inventories
Trade and other receivables
Current tax receivables
Cash and cash equivalents

Current assets classified as held for sale

Total current assets

Total assets

Current liabilities
Trade and other payables
Borrowings
Finance leases
Provisions
Current tax liabilities
Deferred income

Current liabilities classified as held for sale

Non-current liabilities
Deferred income
Borrowings
Finance leases
Retirement benefit obligations
Long-term provisions
Other non-current liabilities
Current tax liabilities
Deferred tax liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets 

1  The comparatives for 30 April 2017 have been revised as described in the Basis of Preparation of the Significant Accounting policies section.

136

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

31 October 
2018
$’000

Note

30 April 
20171
$’000

10
11
12
14
29
27
15

16
17
23
18

19

20
21
22
26
23
24

19

25
21
22
27
26
28
23
30

6,805,043
6,629,325
144,250
–
86,381
16,678
38,790

2,828,604
1,089,370
40,956
11,457
–
22,031
3,093

13,720,467

3,995,511

204
1,272,033
24,504
620,896

1,917,637
1,142,451

64
289,509
1,637
150,983

442,193
–

3,060,088

442,193

16,780,555

4,437,704

676,917
3,702
13,560
57,411
124,071
1,134,730

2,010,391
437,699

170,042
71,184
–
20,142
42,679
640,650

944,697
–

2,448,090

944,697

178,064
4,842,178
14,923
110,351
35,421
58,011
131,048
1,170,489

223,786
1,490,352
–
30,773
11,937
4,191
–
118,478

6,540,485

1,879,517

8,988,575

2,824,214

7,791,980

1,613,490

Capital and reserves
Share capital
Share premium account
Merger reserve
Capital redemption reserve
Hedging reserve
Retained earnings
Foreign currency translation reserve

Total equity attributable to owners of the parent

Non-controlling interests

Total equity

Note

31
32
33
33
33

31 October 
2018
$’000

30 April 
20171
$’000

65,798
40,961
3,724,384
666,289
69,968
3,275,243
(51,702)

39,700
192,145
338,104
163,363
–
902,183
(22,959)

7,790,941

1,612,536

34

1,039

954

7,791,980

1,613,490

1  The comparatives for 30 April 2017 have been revised as described in the Basis of Preparation of the Significant Accounting policies section.

The accompanying notes form part of the financial statements.

The consolidated financial statements on pages 134 to 212 and accompanying notes were approved by the board of directors on 20 February 2019 
and were signed on its behalf by:

Stephen Murdoch 
Chief Executive Officer   

Chris Kennedy
Chief Financial Officer

Registered number: 5134647

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

137

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information   
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
Consolidated statement of changes in equity
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018

Share 
capital
$’000

Note

Share 
premium 
account
$’000

Retained 
earnings 
$’000

Foreign 
currency 
translation 
reserve
$’000

Capital 
redemption 
reserves 
$’000

Hedging 
reserve
$’000

Total equity 
attributable to 
owners of the 
parent
$’000

Merger 
reserve
$’000

Non-
controlling 
interests
$’000

Total equity
$’000

39,573 190,293

228,344

(17,006) 163,363

988,104 1,592,671

1,057 1,593,728

Balance as at 
1 May 2016

Profit for the 
financial period
Other comprehensive 
expense for the period

Total 
comprehensive 
income/(expense) 
for the period
Transactions with 
owners:
Dividends
Treasury shares 
purchased 
Share options:
Issue of share capital 
– share options
Movement in relation 
to share options
Current tax on share 
options
Deferred tax on share 
options
Reallocation of 
merger reserve

Total movements 
for the period

Balance as at 
30 April 2017

–

–

–

–

–

8

–

–

–

–

–

157,906

–

207

(5,953)

158,113

(5,953)

(177,535)

(7,678)

31,32

127

1,852

(90)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

23,952

4,081

22,996

650,000

33

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

157,906

(103)

157,803

(5,746)

–

(5,746)

152,160

(103)

152,057

(177,535)

(7,678)

1,889

23,952

4,081

22,996

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(177,535)

(7,678)

1,889

23,952

4,081

22,996

–

127

1,852

673,839

(5,953)

– (650,000)

19,865

(103)

19,762

39,700

192,145

902,183

(22,959) 163,363

–

338,104 1,612,536

954 1,613,490

– (650,000)

–

The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.

138

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Share 
capital
$’000

Note

Share 
premium 
account
$’000

Retained 
earnings 
$’000

Foreign 
currency 
translation 
reserve
$’000

Capital 
redemption 
reserves 
$’000

Hedging 
reserve
$’000

Total equity 
attributable to 
owners of the 
parent
$’000

Merger 
reserve
$’000

Non-
controlling 
interests
$’000

Total equity
$’000

–

–

784,048

–

(11,920)

(28,743)

–

–

–

69,968

–

–

784,048

85

784,133

29,305

–

29,305

–

772,128

(28,743)

–

69,968

–

813,353

85

813,438

–

–

–

–

8

– (542,161)

31,32

251

5,499

(61)

–

–

–

31 28,773

31,33 (2,926)

–

–

–

–

–

78,643

4,145

(23,724)

–

–

31,33
31

– (156,683) (500,000)
(171,710)
–
–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

– (542,161)

– (542,161)

–

–

–

–

5,689

78,643

4,145

(23,724)

–

–

–

–

5,689

78,643

4,145

(23,724)

–

6,485,397 6,514,170

– 6,514,170

–

2,926

– 500,000
–
–

–

–
–

–

–

–

–

(343,317) (500,000)
(171,710)

–

– (500,000)
(171,710)
–

33

–

– 2,755,800

–

–

– (2,755,800)

–

–

–

26,098 (151,184) 2,373,060

(28,743) 502,926

69,968

3,386,280 6,178,405

85 6,178,490

65,798

40,961 3,275,243

(51,702) 666,289

69,968

3,724,384 7,790,941

1,039 7,791,980

Profit for the 
financial period
Other comprehensive 
income for the period

Total 
comprehensive 
income/(expense) 
for the period
Transactions with 
owners:
Dividends
Share options:
Issue of share capital 
– share options
Movement in relation 
to share options
Current tax on share 
options
Deferred tax on share 
options
Acquisitions:
Shares issued to 
acquire the HPE 
Software business
Share 
reorganisation 
and buy-back:
Return of Value – 
share consolidation
Issue and redemption 
of B shares
Share buy-back
Reallocation of 
merger reserve

Total movements 
for the period

Balance as at 
31 October 2018

The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

139

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information 18 months
ended
31 October 
2018
$’000

Note

40

1,424,311

(301,791)

(101,159)
(99,490)

12 months
ended
30 April
2017
$’000

564,792

(81,115)

(6,654)
(24,644)

11

12

22

39

39
39

34

31

31

921,871

452,379

(92,115)

(40,091)

(735)

9,224

(19,260)

–
321,668

(31,438)

(11,727)

–

979

(299,061)

(316,650)
68,173

178,691

(589,724)

(3)

5,750

(171,710)

(225,800)

(252,936)

1,043,815
(542,161)

(643,045)
15,302

472,819

150,983

623,802

(2,906)

(2)

1,979

(7,678)

–

–

(372,062)

180,000
(177,535)

(375,298)
(3,552)

(516,195)

667,178

150,983

–

620,896

150,983

31,33

(500,000)

Consolidated statement of cash flows
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018

Cash flows from operating activities

Cash generated from operations

Interest paid

Bank loan costs
Tax paid

Net cash generated from operating activities

Cash flows from/(used in) investing activities

Payments for intangible assets

Purchase of property, plant and equipment

Finance leases

Interest received

Payment for acquisition of business

Repayment of bank borrowings on acquisition of businesses
Net cash acquired with acquisitions

Net cash from/(used in) investing activities

Cash flows from/(used in) financing activities

Investment in non-controlling interest

Proceeds from issue of ordinary share capital

Purchase of treasury shares

Return of Value paid to shareholders

Repayment of working capital in respect of the HPE Software business acquisition

Repayment of bank borrowings

Proceeds from bank borrowings
Dividends paid to owners

Net cash used in financing activities
Effects of exchange rate changes

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

Reclassification to current assets classified as held for sale

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.

39

21

21
8

18

19

18

The principal non-cash transaction in the 12 months ended 30 April 2017 was the cashless rollover of Term Loan C to Term Loan B-2 (note 21).

The principal non-cash transactions in the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 were the issuance of shares as purchase consideration for the 
HPE Software business acquisition (note 39) and property, plant and equipment finance lease additions of $12.1m (note 12).

140

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Summary of significant accounting policies 
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018

General information
Micro Focus International plc (“Company”) is a public limited company 
incorporated and domiciled in the UK. The address of its registered 
office is: The Lawn, 22-30 Old Bath Road, Newbury, RG14 1QN, UK. 
Micro Focus International plc and its subsidiaries (together “Group”) 
provide innovative software to clients around the world enabling them to 
dramatically improve the business value of their enterprise applications. 
As at 31 October 2018, the Group had a presence in 49 countries 
(30 April 2017: 40) worldwide and employed approximately 14,800 
people (30 April 2017: 4,800).

On 1 September 2017, Micro Focus International plc successfully 
completed the merger of its wholly owned subsidiary with Seattle SpinCo, 
Inc., which holds the software business segment (“HPE Software”) of 
Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company (“HPE”).

The Company is listed on the London Stock Exchange and its American 
Depositary Shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

Micro Focus has changed its financial year-end from 30 April to 
31 October and reports 18 month financial statements running from 
1 May 2017 to 31 October 2018.

The Group consolidated financial statements were authorised for 
issuance by the board of directors on 20 February 2019.

I  Significant Accounting policies
A  Basis of preparation
The consolidated financial statements of the Company have been prepared 
in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued 
by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”) and in conformity 
with IFRS as adopted by the European Union (collectively “IFRS”). The 
consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern 
basis under the historical cost convention. These financial statements 
have been prepared for an 18 month period as compared with a prior 12 
month reporting period and therefore are not entirely comparable.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires 
the use of certain critical accounting estimates. It also requires 
management to exercise its judgement in the process of applying the 
Group’s accounting policies. The areas involving a higher degree of 
judgement or complexity, or areas where assumptions and estimates are 
significant to the consolidated financial statements are disclosed below 
in II, “Critical accounting estimates, assumptions and judgements”.

The principal accounting policies adopted by the Group in the preparation 
of the consolidated financial statements are set out below. Other than, 
as described below, the accounting policies adopted are consistent with 
those of the Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 
30 April 2017, apart from standards, amendments to or interpretations of 
published standards adopted during the period and the restatement of 
balances in the Consolidated statement of comprehensive income and 
related notes related to assets held for sale and discontinued operations 
as described below.

Going concern
The directors, having made enquiries, consider that the Group has 
adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the 
foreseeable future and therefore it is appropriate to maintain the going 
concern basis in preparing these financial statements.

Assets held for sale and discontinued operations
A current asset (or disposal group) is classified as held for sale if the Group 
will recover the carrying amount principally through a sale transaction 
rather than through continuing use. A current asset (or disposal group) 

classified as held for sale is measured at the lower of its carrying amount 
and fair value less costs to sell. If the asset (or disposal group) is acquired 
as part of a business combination it is initially measured at fair value less 
costs to sell. Assets and liabilities of disposal groups classified as held for 
sale are shown separately on the face of the balance sheet. 

The results of discontinued operations are shown as a single amount on 
the face of the income statement comprising the post-tax profit or loss 
of discontinued operations and the post-tax gain or loss recognised either 
on measurement to fair value less costs to sell or on the disposal of the 
discontinued operation. The Consolidated income statement and the 
Consolidated statement of other comprehensive income have been 
restated to present discontinued operations separately. The related notes 
for the prior year have also been restated where applicable. The 
Consolidated statement of cash flows has been presented including the 
discontinued operation.

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position – Prior period revision
In the prior period deferred tax assets ($208.3m) and deferred tax 
liabilities ($326.7m) were incorrectly presented on a gross basis in the 
consolidated statement of financial position as of 30 April 2017 because 
jurisdictional offsetting, a requirement under IFRS, was not applied to 
these balances. Management has therefore elected to correct the 
misstatement and record immaterial adjustments to revise the 
consolidated statement of financial position as of 30 April 2017 and 
related notes to apply jurisdictional offsetting in respect of deferred tax 
assets and liabilities and present these on a net basis where they are 
expected to be realised as such.

The impact of the revision is to reduce deferred tax assets, deferred tax 
liabilities, non-current assets and non-current liabilities by $208.3m, as 
compared with the previously reported amounts. The revision has no 
impact on profit or cash flows for the years ended 30 April 2017 and 
2016 or net assets as at 30 April 2017.

B  Consolidation
The financial statements of the Group comprise the financial statements 
of the Company and entities controlled by the Company, its subsidiaries 
and the Group’s share of its interests in associates prepared at the 
consolidated statement of financial position date.

Subsidiaries
Subsidiaries are entities controlled by the Group. The Group has control 
over an entity where the Group is exposed to, or has rights to, variable 
returns from its involvement within the entity and it has the power over the 
entity to effect those returns. The existence and effect of potential voting 
rights that are currently exercisable or convertible are considered when 
assessing control. Control is presumed to exist when the Group owns 
more than half of the voting rights (which does not always equal 
percentage ownership) unless it can be demonstrated that ownership 
does not constitute control. The results of subsidiaries are consolidated 
from the date on which control passes to the Group. The results of 
disposed subsidiaries are consolidated up to the date on which control 
passes from the Group.

The purchase method of accounting is used to account for the acquisition 
of subsidiaries by the Group. The cost of acquisition is measured as the 
fair value of the assets given, equity instruments issued and liabilities 
incurred or assumed at the date of exchange, with costs directly 
attributable to the acquisition being expensed. Identifiable assets 
acquired and liabilities and contingent liabilities assumed in a business 
combination are measured initially at their fair values at the acquisition 
date, irrespective of the extent of any non-controlling interest. The excess 
of the cost of acquisition over the fair value of the Group’s share of the 
identifiable net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

141

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Summary of significant accounting policies continued
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018

I  Significant Accounting policies continued
Where new information is obtained within the “measurement period” 
(defined as the earlier of the period until which the Group receives the 
information it was seeking about facts and circumstances that existed as 
of the acquisition date or learns that more information is not obtainable, or 
one year from the acquisition date) about facts and circumstances that 
existed as at the acquisition date and, if known, would have affected the 
measurement of the amounts recognised as of that date, the Group 
recognises these adjustments to the acquisition balance sheet with an 
equivalent offsetting adjustment to goodwill. Where new information is 
obtained after this measurement period has closed, this is reflected in 
the post-acquisition period.

For partly owned subsidiaries, the allocation of net assets and net earnings 
to outside shareholders is shown in the line “Attributable to non-controlling 
interests” on the face of the consolidated statement of comprehensive 
income and the consolidated statement of financial position.

Inter-company transactions, balances and unrealised gains on 
transactions between Group companies are eliminated. Accounting 
policies of subsidiaries have been changed where necessary to ensure 
consistency with the policies adopted by the Group.

At 31 October 2018, the Group had an 81.05% (30 April 2017: 74.7%) 
interest in Novell Japan Ltd which gives rise to the minority interest 
reported in these financial statements.

Associates
An associate is an entity, that is neither a subsidiary or a joint venture, 
over whose operating and financial policies the Group exercises 
significant influence. Significant influence is presumed to exist where the 
Group has between 20% and 50% of the voting rights, but can also arise 
where the Group holds less than 20% if it has the power to be actively 
involved and influential in policy decisions affecting the entity.

Associates are accounted for under the equity method, where the 
consolidated statement of comprehensive income and the consolidated 
statement of financial position includes the Group’s share of their profits 
and losses and net assets, less any impairment in value. This involves 
recording the investment initially at cost to the Group, which therefore 
includes any goodwill on acquisition and then, in subsequent periods, 
adjusting the carrying amount of the investment to reflect the Group’s 
share of the associates’ post-acquisition profits and losses, which is 
recognised in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income, and 
its share of post-acquisition comprehensive income, which is recognised 
in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income. Unrealised gains 
arising from transactions between the Group and its associates are 
eliminated to the extent of the Group’s interests in the associates.

At 31 October 2018 the Group had a 12.5% interest ($9.6m) (2017: 
12.5%, $11.5m) investment in Open Invention Network LLC (“OIN”). 
There are eight (30 April 2017: eight) equal shareholders of OIN, all 
holding 12.5% (30 April 2017: 12.5%) interest, and each shareholder 
has one board member and one alternative board member. The Group 
exercises significant influence over OIN’s operation and therefore 
accounts for its investment in OIN as an associate. The investment in 
associates is part of discontinued operations, which will be disposed 
of with the sale of the SUSE business segment and as such has been 
transferred to assets held for sale (note 19).

C  Revenue recognition
The Group recognises revenues from sales of software Licences 
(including Intellectual Property and Patent rights), to end-users, resellers 
and Independent Software Vendors (“ISV”), software maintenance, 
subscription, Software as a Service (“SaaS”), technical support, training 
and professional services, upon firm evidence of an arrangement, delivery 
of the software and determination that collection of a fixed or determinable 
fee is reasonably assured. ISV revenue includes fees based on end usage 
of ISV applications that have our software embedded in their applications. 
When the fees for software upgrades and enhancements, maintenance, 
consulting and training are bundled with the Licence fee, they are 
unbundled using the Group’s objective evidence of the fair value of the 
elements represented by the Group’s customary pricing for each element 
in separate transactions. If evidence of fair value exists for all undelivered 
elements and there is no such evidence of fair value established for 
delivered elements, revenue is first allocated to the elements where fair 
value has been established and the residual amount is allocated to the 
delivered elements. If evidence of fair value for any undelivered element 
of the arrangement does not exist, all revenue from the arrangement is 
deferred until such time that there is evidence of delivery.

If the arrangement includes acceptance criteria, revenue is not 
recognised until the Group can objectively demonstrate that the 
acceptance criteria have been met, or the acceptance period lapses, 
whichever is earlier.

The Group recognises Licence revenue derived from sales to resellers 
upon delivery to resellers, provided that all other revenue recognition 
criteria are met; otherwise revenue is deferred and recognised upon 
delivery of the product to the end-user. Where the Group sells access 
to a Licence for a specified period of time and collection of a fixed or 
determinable fee is reasonably assured, Licence revenue is recognised 
upon delivery, except in instances where future substantive upgrades or 
similar performance obligations are committed to. Where these future 
performance obligations are specified in the Licence agreement, and fair 
value can be attributed to those upgrades, revenue for the future 
performance obligations is deferred and recognised on the basis of the 
fair value of the upgrades in relation to the total estimated sales value of 
all items covered by the Licence agreement. Where the future 
performance obligations are unspecified in the Licence agreement, 
revenue is deferred and recognised rateably over the specified period.

For Subscription revenue where access and performance obligations are 
provided evenly over a defined term, the revenue is deferred and 
recognised rateably over the specified period.

The Group recognises revenue for SaaS arrangements as the service 
is delivered, generally on a straight-line basis, over the contractual period 
of performance. In SaaS arrangements, the Group considers the rights 
provided to the customer (e.g. whether the customer has the contractual 
right to take possession of the software at any time during the contractual 
period without significant penalty, and the feasibility of the customer to 
operate or contract with another vendor to operate the software) in 
determining whether the arrangement includes the sale of a software 
licence. In SaaS arrangements where software licences are sold, licence 
revenue is generally recognised according to whether perpetual or term 
licences are sold, when all other revenue recognition criteria are satisfied.

Maintenance revenue is recognised on a straight-line basis over the term 
of the contract, which in most cases is one year.

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Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

I  Significant Accounting policies continued
For time and material-based professional services contracts, The Group 
recognises revenue as services are rendered and recognises costs as 
they are incurred. The Group recognises revenue from fixed-price 
professional services contracts as work progresses over the contract 
period on a proportional performance basis, as determined by the 
percentage of labour costs incurred to date compared to the total 
estimated labour costs of a contract. Estimates of total project costs for 
fixed-price contracts are regularly reassessed during the life of a contract. 
Amounts collected prior to satisfying the above revenue recognition 
criteria are included in deferred income.

Rebates paid to partners as part of a contracted programme are netted 
against revenue where the rebate paid is based on the achievement of 
sales targets made by the partner, unless the Company receives an 
identifiable good or service from the partner that is separable from the 
sales transaction and for which the Group can reasonably estimate fair 
value.

D  Cost of sales
Cost of sales includes costs related to the amortisation of product 
development costs, amortisation of acquired technology intangibles, 
costs of the consulting business and helpline support and royalties 
payable to third parties.

E  Segment reporting
In accordance with IFRS 8, “Operating Segments”, the Group has derived 
the information for its segmental reporting using the information used by 
the Chief Operating Decision Maker (“CODM”), defined as the Executive 
Committee. The segmental reporting is consistent with those used in 
internal management reporting and the measure used by the Executive 
Committee is the Adjusted EBITDA as set out in note 1. 

F  Exceptional items
Exceptional items are those significant items, which are separately 
disclosed by virtue of their size, nature or incidence to enable a full 
understanding of the Group’s financial performance. In setting the policy 
for exceptional items, judgement is required to determine what the Group 
defines as “exceptional”. The Group considers an item to be exceptional 
in nature if it is material, non-recurring and does not reflect the underlying 
performance of the business. Exceptional items are allocated to the 
financial statement lines (for example: cost of sales) in the Consolidated 
statement of comprehensive income based on the nature and function of 
the costs, for example restructuring costs related to employees are 
classified where their original employment costs are recorded.

Management of the Group first evaluates Group strategic projects such 
as acquisitions, divestitures and integration activities, Company tax 
restructuring and other one-off events such as restructuring programmes. 
In determining whether an event or transaction is exceptional, 
management of the Group considers quantitative and qualitative factors 
such as its expected size, precedent for similar items and the commercial 
context for the particular transaction, while ensuring consistent treatment 
between favourable and unfavourable transactions impacting revenue, 
income and expense. Examples of transactions which may be considered 
of an exceptional nature include major restructuring programmes, cost of 
acquisitions or the cost of integrating acquired businesses.

G  Employee benefit costs
a)  Pension obligations and long-term pension assets
The Group operates various pension schemes, including both defined 
contribution and defined benefit pension plans. A defined contribution 
plan is a pension plan under which the Group pays fixed contributions into 
a separate entity. The Group has no legal or constructive obligations to 

pay further contributions if the fund does not hold sufficient assets to pay 
all employees the benefits relating to employee service in the current and 
prior periods. A defined benefit plan is a pension plan that is not a defined 
contribution plan.

For defined contribution plans the Group pays contributions to publicly 
or privately administered pension insurance plans on a mandatory, 
contractual or voluntary basis. The Group has no further payment 
obligations once the contributions have been paid. The contributions are 
recognised as an employee benefit expense when they are due. Prepaid 
contributions are recognised as an asset to the extent that a cash refund 
or a reduction in the future payments is available.

Typically, defined benefit plans define an amount of pension benefit that 
an employee will receive on retirement. This is usually dependent on one 
or more factors such as age, years of service and compensation.

The liability recognised in the consolidated statement of financial position 
in respect of defined benefit pension plans is the present value of the 
defined benefit obligation at the end of the reporting period less the fair 
value of plan assets. Certain long-term pension assets do not meet the 
definition of plan assets as they have not been pledged to the plan and 
are subject to the creditors of the Group. Such assets are recorded 
separately in the consolidated statement of financial position as long-term 
pension assets. The portion of non-plan assets connected with the SUSE 
segment are recorded within current assets classified as held for sale. 
The defined benefit obligation is calculated annually by independent 
actuaries using the projected unit credit method. The present value of the 
defined benefit obligation is determined by discounting the estimated 
future cash outflows using interest rates of high-quality corporate bonds 
that have terms to mature approximating to the terms of the related 
pension obligation.

Actuarial gains and losses arising from experience adjustments and 
changes in actuarial assumptions are charged or credited to equity in 
other comprehensive income in the period in which they arise. Past-
service costs are recognised immediately in income.

The current service cost of the defined benefit plan, recognised in the 
consolidated statement of comprehensive income in employee benefit 
expense, except where included in the cost of an asset, reflects the 
increase in the defined benefit obligation resulting from employee service 
in the current year, benefit changes, curtailments and settlements.

The net interest cost is calculated by applying the discount rate to the net 
balance of the defined benefit obligation and the fair value of plan assets. 
This cost is included in employee benefit expense in the consolidated 
statement of comprehensive income.

Long-term pension assets relate to the reimbursement right under 
insurance policies held in the Group with guaranteed interest rates that 
do not meet the definition of a qualifying insurance policy as they have 
not been pledged to the plan and are subject to the creditors of the 
Group. Such reimbursement rights assets are recorded in the 
consolidated statement of financial position as long-term pension assets. 
These contractual arrangements are treated as available-for-sale financial 
assets since there is not an exact matching of the amount and timing of 
some or all of the benefits payable under the defined benefit plan. Gains 
and losses on long-term pension assets are charged or credited to equity 
in other comprehensive income in the period in which they arise.

b)  Share based compensation
The Group operated various equity-settled, share based compensation 
plans during the period.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

143

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Summary of significant accounting policies continued
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018

I  Significant Accounting policies continued
The fair value of the employee services received in exchange for the grant 
of the shares or options is recognised as an expense. The total amount to 
be expensed over the vesting period is determined by reference to the fair 
value of the shares or options granted. Non-market vesting conditions are 
included in assumptions about the number of options that are expected to 
become exercisable. Market vesting conditions are taken into account 
when determining the fair value of the options at grant date. At each 
consolidated statement of financial position date, the Group revises its 
estimates of the number of options that are expected to become 
exercisable. It recognises the impact of the revision of original estimates, 
if any, in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income, and a 
corresponding adjustment to equity over the current reporting period.

The shares are recognised when the options are exercised and the 
proceeds received allocated between ordinary shares and share premium 
account. Fair value is measured using the Black-Scholes pricing model. 
The expected life used in the model has been adjusted, based on 
management’s best estimate for the effects of non-transferability, 
exercise restrictions and behavioural considerations. The Additional Share 
Grants have been valued using the Monte-Carlo simulation pricing model.

When the terms of an equity-settled award are modified, the minimum 
expense recognised is the grant date fair-value of the unmodified award, 
provided the original terms of the award are met. An additional expense, 
measured as at the date of modification, is recognised for any 
modification that increases the total fair value of the share-based 
payment transaction, or is otherwise beneficial to the employee.

The social security contributions payable in connection with the grant of 
the share options is considered an integral part of the grant itself, and the 
charge is treated as a cash-settled transaction.

c)  Employee benefit trust
Transactions, assets and liabilities of the Group sponsored Employee 
Benefit Trust are included in the consolidated financial statements as it 
is considered to be an intermediate payment arrangement. In particular, 
the Trust’s purchases of shares in the Company remain deducted from 
shareholders’ funds until they vest unconditionally with employees.

H  Foreign currency translation
a)  Functional and presentation currency
The presentation currency of the Group is US dollars. Items included in 
the financial statements of each of the Group’s entities are measured in 
the functional currency of each entity. From 1 November 2017, certain 
HPE Software business entities changed their functional currency, 
reflecting changes in their underlying business model and transactional 
conditions.

b)  Transactions and balances
Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currency 
using the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. 
Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such 
transactions and from the translation at year end exchange rates of 
monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are 
recognised in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income.

c)  Group companies
The results and financial position of all the Group entities that have a 
functional currency different from the presentation currency are 
translated into the presentation currency as follows:

i)   Assets and liabilities for each consolidated statement of financial 

position presented are translated at the closing rate at the date of that 
consolidated statement of financial position;

144

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

ii)   Income and expenses for each consolidated statement of 

comprehensive income item are translated at average exchange rates 
(unless this average is not a reasonable approximation of the 
cumulative effect of the rates prevailing on the transaction dates, in 
which case income and expenses are translated at the dates of the 
transactions); and

iii)   All resulting exchange differences are recognised as a separate 

component of equity.

On consolidation, exchange differences arising from the translation of 
the net investment in foreign entities are taken to other comprehensive 
income.

Goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on the acquisition of a foreign 
entity are treated as assets and liabilities of the foreign entity and 
translated at the closing rate, with the exception for goodwill arising 
before 1 May 2004, which is treated as an asset of the Company and 
expressed in the Company’s functional currency.

d)  Exchange rates
The most important foreign currencies for the Group are Pounds Sterling, 
the Euro, Israeli Shekel and Canadian Dollar. The exchange rates used 
are as follows:

18 months
 ended
 31 October 2018

12 months
ended
30 April 2017

Average
1.33
1.18
0.78
0.28

Closing
1.27
1.14
0.76
0.27

Average
1.29
1.09
0.76
0.26

Closing
1.29
1.09
0.73
0.28

£1 = $
€1 = $ 
C$ = $
ILS = $

Intangible assets

I 
a)  Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair 
value of the net identifiable assets of the acquired subsidiary at the date 
of acquisition. Goodwill on acquisitions of subsidiaries is included in 
intangible assets. Goodwill is tested annually for impairment and carried 
at cost less accumulated impairment losses. Gains and losses on the 
disposal of an entity include the carrying amount of goodwill relating to 
the entity sold. Goodwill is allocated to cash-generating units for the 
purpose of impairment testing. Each of those cash-generating units 
represents the Group’s investment in each area of operation by each 
primary reporting segment.

Where goodwill has been allocated to a cash-generating unit (CGU) and 
part of the operation within that unit is classified as held for sale, the 
goodwill associated with the held-for-sale operation is measured based 
on the relative values of the held-for-sale operation and the portion of the 
cash-generating unit retained.

b)  Computer software
Computer software licences are capitalised on the basis of the costs 
incurred to acquire and bring into use the specific software. These costs 
are amortised using the straight-line method over their estimated useful 
lives of three to five years.

I  Significant Accounting policies continued
I 
Intangible assets continued
c)  Research and development
Research expenditure is recognised as an expense as incurred in the 
consolidated statement of comprehensive income in research and 
development expenses. Costs incurred on product development projects 
relating to the developing of new computer software programmes and 
significant enhancement of existing computer software programmes are 
recognised as intangible assets when it is probable that the project will be 
a success, considering its commercial and technological feasibility, and 
costs can be measured reliably. Only direct costs are capitalised which 
are the software development employee costs and third-party contractor 
costs. Product development costs previously recognised as an expense 
are not recognised as an asset in a subsequent period.

Product development costs are amortised from the commencement 
of the commercial production of the product on a straight-line basis 
over the period of its expected benefit, typically being three years, 
and are included in costs of sales in the consolidated statement of 
comprehensive income.

d)  Intangible assets – arising on business combinations
Other intangible assets that are acquired by the Group are stated at cost 
less accumulated amortisation. Amortisation is charged to the consolidated 
statement of comprehensive income on a straight-line basis over the 
estimated useful life of each intangible asset. Intangible assets are 
amortised from the date they are available for use. The estimated useful 
lives will vary for each category of asset acquired and to date are as follows:

Purchased software
Technology
Trade names
Customer relationships
Lease contracts

Three to five years
Three to 12 years
Three to 20 years
Two to 15 years
Five and half years

Amortisation of purchased software intangibles is included in administrative 
expenses, amortisation of purchased technology intangibles is included 
in cost of sales and amortisation of acquired purchased trade names, 
customer relationships and lease contracts intangibles are included in 
selling and distribution costs in the Consolidated statement of 
comprehensive income.

J  Property, plant and equipment
All property, plant and equipment is stated at historical cost less 
accumulated depreciation and impairment. Historical cost includes 
expenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition of the items. 
Subsequent costs are included in the asset’s carrying amount or 
recognised as a separate asset, as appropriate, only when it is probable 
that future economic benefits associated with the item will flow to the 
Group and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. All other repairs 
and maintenance expenditures are charged to the consolidated 
statement of comprehensive income during the financial year in which 
they are incurred. Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line 
method to write off the cost of each asset to its residual value over its 
estimated useful life as follows:

Buildings
Leasehold improvements
Fixtures and fittings
Computer equipment

30 years
Three to 10 years
Two to seven years
One to five years

Freehold land is not depreciated. The assets’ residual values and useful 
lives are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at each consolidated 
statement of financial position date. An asset’s carrying amount is written 
down immediately to its recoverable amount if the asset’s carrying 
amount is greater than its estimated recoverable amount. Gains and 
losses on disposals are determined by comparing the disposal proceeds 
with the carrying amount and are included in the consolidated statement 
of comprehensive income.

Property held for sale is measured at the lower of its carrying amount or 
estimated fair value less costs to sell.

K  Impairment of non-financial assets
Assets that have an indefinite useful life are not subject to amortisation 
and are tested annually for impairment. Assets that are subject to 
amortisation are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in 
circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. 
An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the asset’s 
carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. The recoverable 
amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs of disposal and 
value in use. For the purposes of assessing impairment, assets are 
grouped at the lowest levels for which there are separately identifiable 
cash flows being cash-generating units. Any non-financial assets other 
than goodwill which have suffered impairment are reviewed for possible 
reversal of the impairment at each reporting date. Assets that are subject 
to amortisation and depreciation are also reviewed for any possible 
impairment at each reporting date.

L  Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. The 
cost of finished goods comprises software for resale and packaging 
materials. Net realisable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary 
course of business, less applicable variable selling expenses.

When work has been performed and the revenue is not yet recognised, 
the direct costs of third-party contractors and staff will be treated as work 
in progress where the probability of invoicing and evidence of 
collectability can be demonstrated.

M  Trade receivables
Trade receivables are initially recognised at fair value and subsequently 
measured at amortised cost less provisions for impairment. A provision for 
impairment of trade receivables is established when there is objective 
evidence that the Group will not be able to collect all amounts due 
according to the original terms of receivables. The amount of the provision 
is the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present 
value of estimated future cash flows, discounted at the effective interest 
rate. The amount of the provision is recognised in the consolidated 
statement of comprehensive income.

N  Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents includes cash in hand, deposits held at call 
with banks, other short-term highly liquid investments with original 
maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts 
are shown within borrowings in current liabilities on the consolidated 
statement of financial position.

O  Borrowings
Borrowings are recognised initially at fair value, net of transaction costs 
incurred. Subsequent to initial recognition, interest bearing borrowings are 
stated at amortised cost with any difference between cost and redemption 
value being recognised in the consolidated statement of comprehensive 
income over the period of borrowing on an effective interest basis.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

145

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Summary of significant accounting policies continued
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018

I  Significant Accounting policies continued
P  Finance and operating leases
A lease is classified at the inception date as a finance lease or an 
operating lease. A lease that transfers substantially all the risks and rewards 
incidental to ownership to the Group is classified as a finance lease.

Finance leases are capitalised at the commencement of the lease at the 
inception date fair value of the leased property or, if lower, at the present 
value of the minimum lease payments. Lease payments are apportioned 
between finance charges and reduction of the lease liability so as to 
achieve a constant rate of interest on the remaining balance of the 
liability. Finance charges are recognised in finance costs in the statement 
of profit or loss.
A leased asset is depreciated over the useful life of the asset. However, 
if there is no reasonable certainty that the Group will obtain ownership by 
the end of the lease term, the asset is depreciated over the shorter of the 
estimated useful life of the asset and the lease term.

An operating lease is a lease other than a finance lease. Operating lease 
payments are recognised as an operating expense in the statement of 
profit or loss on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

Q  Taxation
Current and deferred tax are recognised in the consolidated statement of 
comprehensive income, except when the tax relates to items charged or 
credited directly to equity, in which case the tax is also dealt with directly 
in equity.

Deferred income tax is provided in full, using the liability method, on 
temporary differences arising between the tax bases of assets and 
liabilities and their carrying amounts in the consolidated financial 
statements. Deferred tax liabilities are not recognised if they arise from 
the initial recognition of goodwill. However, if the deferred income tax 
arises from initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction other 
than a business combination that at the time of the transaction affects 
neither accounting nor taxable profit nor loss, it is not accounted for. 
Deferred income tax is determined using tax rates (and laws) that have 
been enacted or substantially enacted by the consolidated statement of 
financial position date and are expected to apply when the related 
deferred income tax asset is realised, or the deferred income tax liability 
is settled. Deferred income tax assets are recognised to the extent that 
it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the 
temporary differences can be utilised.

Deferred income tax is provided on temporary differences arising on 
investments in subsidiaries, except where the timing of the reversal of the 
temporary difference is controlled by the Group and it is probable that the 
temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset where there is a legally 
enforceable right to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities 
and when they relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation 
authority and the Group intends to settle its current tax assets and 
liabilities on a net basis.

Current tax is recognised based on the amounts expected to be paid 
or recovered under the tax rates and laws that have been enacted or 
substantively enacted at the consolidated statement of financial 
position date.

R  Ordinary shares, share premium and dividend distribution
Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares or 
options are shown in equity as a deduction, net of tax, from the proceeds. 
Dividend distributions to the Company’s shareholders are recognised as 
a liability in the Group’s financial statements in the period in which the 

146

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

dividends are approved by the Company’s shareholders. Interim dividends 
are recognised when they are paid.

S  Derivative financial instruments and hedge accounting
Financial assets and liabilities are recognised in the Group’s consolidated 
statement of financial position when the Group becomes a party to the 
contractual provision of the instrument. Trade receivables are non-interest 
bearing and are stated at their fair value less the amount of any 
appropriate provision for irrecoverable amounts. Trade payables are 
non-interest bearing and are stated at their fair value. Derivative financial 
instruments are only used for economic hedging purposes and not as 
speculative investments.

The Group uses derivative financial instruments, such as interest rate 
swaps, to hedge its interest rate risks. Such derivative financial 
instruments are initially recognised at fair value on the date on which the 
contract is entered into and are subsequently re-measured at fair value. 
Derivatives are carried as financial assets when the fair value is positive 
and as financial liabilities when the fair value is negative.

Hedge accounting is permitted under certain circumstances provided the 
following criteria are met: 

At inception of the hedge, the documentation must include the risk 
management objective and strategy for undertaking the hedge, 
identification of the hedging instrument, the hedged item, the nature of 
the risk being hedged and how the entity will assess the hedging 
instrument’s effectiveness. Such hedges are expected to be highly 
effective in achieving offsetting changes in cash flows and are assessed 
on an on-going basis to determine the level of effectiveness.

The measurement of effectiveness determines the accounting treatment. 
For effective results, changes in the fair value of the hedging instrument 
should be recognised in other comprehensive income in the hedging 
reserve, while any material ineffectiveness should be recognised in the 
statement of comprehensive income. If either prospective or retrospective 
testing is not satisfactorily completed, all fair value movements on the 
hedging instrument should be recorded in the statement of 
comprehensive income.

Hedge accounting is ceased prospectively if the instrument expires or is 
sold, terminated or exercised; the hedge criteria are no longer met; the 
forecast transaction is no longer expected to occur; or the entity revokes 
the hedge designation.

T  Provisions
Provisions for onerous leases, restructuring costs and legal claims are 
recognised when the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation 
as a result of past events; it is probable that an outflow of resources will 
be required to settle the obligation; and the amount has been reliably 
estimated. Provisions are not recognised for future operating losses.

Where there are a number of similar obligations, the likelihood that an 
outflow will be required in settlement is determined by considering the 
class of obligations as a whole. A provision is recognised even if the 
likelihood of an outflow with respect to any one item included in the same 
class of obligations may be small.

Provisions are measured at the present value of the expenditures 
expected to be required to settle the obligation using a pre-tax rate that 
reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the 
risks specific to the obligation. The increase in the provision due to the 
passage of time is recognised as an interest expense.

I  Significant Accounting policies continued
U  Adoption of new and revised International Financial 
Reporting Standards
The accounting policies adopted in these consolidated financial 
statements are consistent with those of the annual financial statements 
for the year ended 30 April 2017, with the exception of the following 
standards, amendments to or interpretations of published standards 
adopted during the period:

 The following standards, interpretations and amendments to existing 
standards are not yet effective and have not been adopted early by 
the Group:

• IFRS 15, “Revenue from contracts with customers” establishes the 

principles that an entity shall apply to report useful information to users 
of financial statements about the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty 
of revenue and cash flows arising from a contract with a customer. 
Application of the standard is mandatory for annual reporting periods 
starting from 1 January 2018 onwards. Earlier application is permitted. 
The standard replaces IAS 18, “Revenue” and IAS 11, “Construction 
contracts” and related interpretations clarifications. Please refer to 
below for a more detailed assessment to-date on implementing this 
standard.

• IFRS 9, “Financial instruments”. This standard replaces the guidance 

in IAS 39 and applies to periods beginning on or after 1 January 2018. 
It includes requirements on the classification and measurement of 
financial assets and liabilities; it also includes an expected credit loss 
model that replaces the current incurred loss impairment model.

• Amendments to IFRS 2, “Share based payments” on clarifying how to 
account for certain types of share-based payment transactions are 
effective on periods beginning on or after 1 January 2018, subject to 
EU endorsement. These amendments clarify the measurement basis 
for cash-settled share-based payments and the accounting for 
modifications that change an award from cash-settled to equity-settled. 
It also introduces an exception to the principles in IFRS 2 that will 
require an award to be treated as if it was wholly equity-settled, where 
an employer is obliged to withhold an amount for the employee’s tax 
obligation associated with a share-based payment and pay that amount 
to the tax authority.

• IFRS 16, “Leases” addresses the definition of a lease, recognition and 
measurement of leases and establishes principles for reporting useful 
information to users of financial statements about the leasing activities 
of both lessees and lessors. A key change arising from IFRS 16 is that 
most operating leases will be accounted for on balance sheet for 
lessees. The standard replaces IAS 17, “Leases”, and related 
interpretations. The standard is effective for annual periods beginning 
on or after 1 January 2019 and earlier application is permitted if the 
entity is adopting IFRS 15, “Revenue from contracts with customers” 
at the same time, subject to EU endorsement.

• Annual improvements 2014–2016 include amendments to IFRS 1, 

“First-time adoption of IFRS”, IFRS 12, “Disclosure of interests in other 
entities” and IAS 28, “Investments in associates and joint ventures” 
regarding measuring an associate or joint venture at fair value 
applies for periods beginning on or after 1 January 2018, subject 
to EU endorsement.

• IFRIC 22, “Foreign currency transactions and advance consideration” 

addresses foreign currency transactions or parts of transactions 
where there is consideration that is denominated or priced in a foreign 
currency. The interpretation provides guidance for when a single 
payment/receipt is made as well as for situations where multiple 
payments/receipts are made, effective for annual periods beginning 
on or after 1 January 2018, subject to EU endorsement.

• Clarifications to IFRS 15, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” 

are effective on periods beginning on or after 1 January 2018, subject 
to EU endorsement. These amendments comprise clarifications of the 
guidance on identifying performance obligations, accounting for 
licences of intellectual property and the principal versus agent 
assessment (gross versus net revenue presentation).

• IFRIC 23, “Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments” clarifies how to 

apply the recognition and measurement requirements in IAS 12 when 
there is uncertainty over income tax treatments. In such a circumstance, 
an entity shall recognise and measure its current or deferred tax asset 
or liability applying the requirements in IAS 12 based on taxable profit 
(tax loss), tax bases, unused tax losses, unused tax credits and tax 
rates determined applying this interpretation. This interpretation is 
effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2019, 
subject to EU endorsement.

• Annual Improvements 2017 includes amendments to IFRS 3, “Business 
combinations”, IFRS 11, “Joint arrangements” and IAS 12, “Income taxes” 
applies for periods beginning on or after 1 January 2019, subject to 
EU endorsement.

• Amendments to IAS 28, Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures 
– “Long-term Interests in Associates and Joint Ventures”, clarifies that 
IFRS 9, “Financial instruments” applies, including its impairment 
requirements to long-term interests in an associate or joint venture that 
form part of the net investment in the associate or joint venture but to 
which the equity method is not applied, subject to EU endorsement.
• Amendments to IAS 19, “Employee Benefits” clarify that on a plan 

amendment, curtailment or settlement of a defined benefit plan, entities 
must use updated actuarial assumptions to determine its current service 
cost and net interest for the period; and the effect of the asset ceiling 
is disregarded when calculating the gain or loss on any settlement of 
the plan and is dealt with separately in other comprehensive income, 
effective 1 January 2019, subject to EU endorsement.

• Amendments to References to the Conceptual Framework in IFRS 

Standards – Amendments to IFRS 2, IFRS 3, IFRS 6, IFRS 14, IAS 1, 
IAS 8, IAS 34, IAS 37, IAS 38, IFRIC 12, IFRIC 19, IFRIC 20, IFRIC 22, 
and SIC-32 to update those pronouncements with regard to the 
revised Conceptual Framework, effective 1 January 2020, subject to 
EU endorsement.

For IFRIC 22 and IFRIC 23, it is too early to determine how significant 
the effect on reported results and financial position will be. The impact 
of IFRS 15, IFRS 9 and IFRS 16 are discussed below. The impact of the 
other standards, amendments and interpretations listed above will not 
have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.

Impact of IFRS 15, “Revenue from contracts with customers”
On 28 May 2014, the IASB issued IFRS 15. This standard is mandatory 
for financial years commencing on or after 1 January 2018, which is 
effective for Micro Focus on 1 November 2018. Micro Focus will adopt 
the standard using the modified retrospective approach which means 
that the cumulative impact of the adoption will be recognised in 
retained earnings as of 1 November 2018 and that comparatives will 
not be restated.

IFRS 15 replaces guidance in IAS 18 and IAS 11. This standard 
establishes a new principle-based model of recognising revenue from 
customer contracts. It introduces a five-step model that requires revenue 
to be recognised when control over goods and services are transferred to 
the customer. Additionally, there is a requirement in the new standard to 
capitalise certain incremental contract costs. The guidance also requires 
disclosures regarding the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of 
revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

147

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Summary of significant accounting policies continued
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018

I  Significant Accounting policies continued
Set out below are the three primary areas of difference and a table 
setting out the approximate impacts of each of these differences:

Cost of obtaining customer contracts
The Group has considered the impact of IFRS 15 on the recognition of 
software sales commission costs, which meet the definition of incremental 
costs of obtaining a contract under IFRS 15. The Group will apply a 
practical expedient to expense the sales commission’s costs as incurred 
where the expected amortisation period is one year or less. An asset will 
be recognised for the software sales commissions, which will typically be 
amortised across the contract length, or customer life where the practical 
expedient cannot be applied. The customer life has been assessed as 
six years in the SUSE business and five years in the rest of the Group. 

The Group will only be capitalising commissions paid for uncompleted 
contracts at 1 November 2018 and amortising those balances in FY19 
compared to capitalising all relevant commissions in future periods. By 
taking this practical expedient there will be a benefit to profit before tax 
and EBITDA in the year ended 31 October 2019 as the capitalisation 
of commissions will be greater than the amortisation and consequently 
the overall commission costs will initially be reduced under IFRS 15 
compared to existing accounting policies where sales commissions are 
expensed as incurred.

Increase/
(decrease) 
in opening 
Retained 
earnings on 
1 November 
2018
$m

Estimated 
increase/
(decrease) in
Revenue
in FY19
$m

Estimated 
increase/
(decrease) in 
Operating 
expenses
in FY19
$m

Estimated 
increase/
(decrease)  
in Profit  
before tax  
and EBITDA 
in FY19
$m

66

–

5

71

–

2

23

25

(20)

2

23

5

20

–

–

20

Cost of obtaining 
customer 
contracts
Rebillable 
expenses
Consideration 
payable to a 
customer

IFRS 9 “Financial Instruments”
IFRS 9 replaces the provisions of IAS 39 that relate to the recognition, 
classification and measurement of financial assets and financial liabilities, 
derecognition of financial instruments, impairment of financial assets and 
hedge accounting. IFRS 9 also amends certain other standards covering 
financial instruments such as IAS 1 “Presentation of Financial Statements”.

Rebillable expenses
The Group will report expenses that are recharged to customers, such as 
travel and accommodation, as Service revenue. Under existing accounting 
policies, these were presented as an offsetting entry within cost of sales.

IFRS 9 is effective for accounting periods beginning on or after 
1 January 2018 and will be adopted by the Group with effect from 
1 November 2018.

Consideration payable to a customer
Certain payments to customers are required to be presented differently 
where a defined benefit is received or where the payee acts as agent 
rather than principal. The Group has considered the impact of such 
payments including rebates. The Group will continue to account for 
consideration payable to a customer as a reduction of the transaction 
price and therefore revenue. However, an adjustment will be recorded as 
the timing of the considerations payable over the contract term will be 
accounted for as variable consideration at the outset of the contract. 
Where the payment is for a distinct good or service, then the Group will 
account for the purchase in the same way as it does for purchases from 
other suppliers in the normal course of business. Certain marketing costs, 
which were previously presented as an offsetting entry within revenue, 
will now be presented as a Selling and Distribution cost.

Presentation
Under the new IFRS 15 based policies, the Group will no longer report 
items as deferred revenue and accrued revenue. Instead, we will 
present these as either a contract liability or contract asset. Rights to 
consideration from customers are only presented as accounts receivable 
if the rights are unconditional.

Summary of quantitative impacts
Under the IFRS 15 adoption method chosen by the Group, prior period 
comparatives are not restated to conform to the new policies. 
Consequently, the period-over-period change of revenue and profit in 
the year to 31 October 2019 will be impacted by the new policies.

We have set out below the estimated impacts on the Group of the three 
primary areas described above, including the adjustment to retained 
earnings expected to be recorded on the transition date of 1 November 
2018, which will result in a corresponding $71m asset being recorded 
on the balance sheet:

The Group anticipates that the classification and measurement basis for 
its financial assets will be largely unchanged by the adoption of IFRS 9.

There will be no impact on the Group’s accounting for financial liabilities, 
as the new requirements only affect the accounting for financial liabilities 
that are designated at fair value through profit or loss and the Group 
does not have any such liabilities. The derecognition rules have been 
transferred from IAS 39 “Financial Instruments: Recognition and 
Measurement” and have not been changed.

Under the new hedge accounting rules as a general rule, more hedge 
relationships might be eligible for hedge accounting, as the standard 
introduces a more principles-based approach. The Group has confirmed 
that its current hedge relationships will qualify as continuing hedges 
upon the adoption of IFRS 9.

The main impact of adopting IFRS 9 will arise from the application of the 
expected credit loss model which requires the recognition of impairment 
provisions based on expected credit losses (ECL) rather than only 
incurred credit losses as is the case under the current standard, IAS 39. 
The new impairment requirements will apply to the consolidated Group’s 
financial assets classified at amortised cost, particularly to its trade 
receivables. The Group has elected to apply the practical expedient 
allowed under IFRS 9 to recognise the full amount of credit losses that 
would be expected to be incurred over the full recovery period of trade 
receivables. Based on the assessments undertaken to date, the Group 
does not expect a material increase in the loss allowance for trade 
debtors at 1 November 2018.

The Group will apply IFRS 9 retrospectively, with any adjustments arising 
from the new impairment rules recognised in opening equity. Under this 
approach, comparatives will not be restated.

148

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

I  Significant Accounting policies continued
IFRS 16 “Leases”
In January 2016, the IASB published IFRS 16 “Leases”, which will 
replace IAS 17 “Leases”. IFRS 16 introduces a new definition of a lease, 
with a single lessee accounting model eliminating the previous distinction 
between operating leases and finance leases. Under IFRS 16, lessees 
will be required to account for all leases in a similar manner to the current 
finance lease accounting recognising lease assets and liabilities on the 
statement of financial position. Lessor accounting remains similar to 
current practice. The standard will affect primarily the accounting for 
the Group’s operating leases.

IFRS 16 applies to annual reporting periods beginning on or after 
1 January 2019. Micro Focus will not early adopt IFRS 16, and therefore 
the new standard will be effective from 1 November 2019.

The Group is still in the process of assessing what adjustments are 
necessary, including which transition option the Group will apply. It is 
therefore not yet possible to determine the amount of right-of-use assets 
and lease liabilities that will have to be recognised on adoption of the 
new standard and how this may affect the Group’s profit or loss and 
classification of cash flows going forward. Certain Alternative 
Performance Measures disclosed by the Group are expected to be 
impacted by IFRS 16.

II  Critical accounting estimates, assumptions and judgements
In preparing these consolidated financial statements, the Group has made 
its best estimates and judgements of certain amounts included in the 
financial statements, giving due consideration to materiality. The Group 
regularly reviews these estimates and updates them as required. Actual 
results could differ from these estimates. Unless otherwise indicated, the 
Group does not believe that there is significant risk of a material change 
to the carrying value of assets and liabilities within the next financial year 
related to the accounting estimates and assumptions described below. 
The Group considers the following to be a description of the most 
significant estimates, which require the Group to make subjective and 
complex judgements and matters that are inherently uncertain.

Critical accounting estimates and assumptions
A  Potential impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets
Each period, or whenever there are changes in circumstances indicating 
that the carrying amounts may not be recoverable, the Group carries out 
impairment tests of goodwill and other assets which require estimates to 
be made of the value in use of its CGUs. These value in use calculations 
are dependent on estimates of future cash flows, long-term growth rates 
and appropriate discount rates to be applied to future cash flows. Further 
details on these estimates and sensitivity of the carrying value of goodwill 
to the discount rate in particular are provided in note 10.

B  Provision for bad debt
The bad debt provision has historically been estimated based on the 
ageing of each debtor and on any changes in the circumstances of the 
individual receivable. The historic level of the provision has been very low 
given the high number of recurring customers and credit control policies 
with less than $2m of debtors written off as uncollectable in the two 
previous periods prior to 30 April 2017. However, as discussed in the 
Chief Financial Officer’s report the newly implemented IT environment in 
this period caused a material disruption within the order to cash process 
for the acquired HPE Software business, particularly impacting invoices 
raised between 1 November 2017 and 30 April 2018, which has 
significantly elevated debtor ageing with DSO days increased to 94 
at 31 October 2018. 

The system issue and subsequent cash collection has since been a key 
focus for the finance team and it has been found that the primary risk of 
bad debt is not believed to be related to specific customer credit risks or 
appropriate billing, but instead to the administrative burden of invoice 
remediation needed by the Group before invoices can be resent to 
customers and payment made by the customer. This burden is high due 
to the volume of invoices impacted that require administrative changes. 
The related bad debt provision has been increased to $41.9m as a result 
of these circumstances at period end against total trade receivables of 
$1,089.6m. The provision is equivalent to the assumption that only the 
largest 15% of invoices by value aged > 90 days are expected be 
collected and this reflects that a high volume of invoices were impacted. 
Given the number of invoices impacted, it is reasonably foreseeable that 
the volume of invoices actually collected will be different to 15% and 
given that a collection rate of 15% is relatively low, it is more foreseeable 
that there is greater upside than downside. Were only the largest 10% of 
invoices by value aged > 90 days collected then the provision recognised 
would need to be increased by $17m. However, if the largest 20% of 
invoices by value aged > 90 days were collected then the provision 
would be reduced by $10m and collection of the largest 30% would 
reduce the provision by $23m.

Critical accounting judgements
C  Business combinations
When making acquisitions, the Group has to make judgements and best 
estimates about the fair value allocation of the purchase price. Where 
acquisitions are significant, appropriate advice is sought from professional 
advisors before making such allocations, otherwise valuations are done 
by management using consistent methodology with those used on prior 
period acquisitions.

Key judgements upon the acquisition of the the HPE Software 
business were required in the assumptions used to underpin the 
valuation of acquired intangibles, particularly Customer Relationships 
($4.48bn) and Technology ($1.81bn).

There was also judgement used in identifying who the accounting 
acquirer was in the acquisition of HPE Software business, as the 
resulting shareholdings were not definitive to identify the entity, which 
obtains control in the transaction. As such, the Group considered the 
other factors laid down in IFRS, such as the composition of the governing 
body of the combined entity, composition of senior management of the 
combined entity, the entity that issued the equity interest, terms of 
exchange of equity interests, the entity which initiated the combination, 
relative size of each entity, the existence of a large minority voting interest 
in the combined entity and other factors (e.g. location of headquarters of 
the combined entity and entity name). The conclusion of this assessment 
is that the Company is the accounting acquirer of the HPE Software 
business, and the acquisition accounting is set out in the notes to the 
Consolidated financial statements (note 39).

D  Revenue recognition
The key areas of judgement in respect of recognising revenue are the 
timing of recognition and how the different elements of bundled contracts 
are identified, for example between licence and maintenance revenues.

E  Exceptional item classification
The Group classifies items as exceptional in line with accounting policy F. 
The classification of these items as an exceptional is a matter of 
judgement. This judgement is made by management after evaluating 
each item deemed to be exceptional against the criteria set out within the 
defined accounting policy.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

149

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information B  Foreign currency risk
The Group operates internationally and is exposed to foreign exchange 
risk arising from various currency exposures, primarily with respect to the 
Euro, UK Pound Sterling, Israeli Shekel and the Canadian Dollar. Foreign 
exchange risk arises from future commercial transactions, recognised 
assets and liabilities and net investments in foreign operations. Foreign 
exchange risk arises when future commercial transactions, recognised 
assets and liabilities are denominated in a currency that is not the entity’s 
functional currency.

There were no foreign currency hedging transactions in place at 
31 October 2018 and 30 April 2017. The Group has certain investments 
in foreign operations, whose net assets are exposed to foreign currency 
translation risk.

C  Interest rate risk
The Group’s income and cash generated from operations are substantially 
independent of changes in market interest rates. The Group’s interest rate 
risk arises from short-term and long-term borrowings. Borrowings issued 
at variable rates expose the Group to cash flow interest rate risk. The 
Group currently uses four interest rate swaps to manage its cash flow 
interest rate risk arising from expected increases in the LIBOR interest rate.

D  Liquidity risk
Central treasury carries out cash flow forecasting for the Group to ensure 
that it has sufficient cash to meet operational requirements and to allow 
the repayment of the bank facility. Surplus cash in the operating units 
over and above what is required for working capital needs is transferred 
to Group treasury. These funds are used to repay bank borrowings or are 
invested in interest bearing current accounts, time deposits or money 
market deposits of the appropriate maturity period determined by 
consolidated cash forecasts.

Trade payables arise in the normal course of business and are all current. 
Onerous lease provisions are expected to mature between less than 
12 months and eight years.

At 31 October 2018 gross borrowings of $4,996.9m (30 April 2017: 
$1,595.2m) related to our senior secured debt facilities (see note 21). 
$50.3m (30 April 2017: $83.8m) is current of which $nil (30 April 2017: 
$80.0m) is the revolving credit facility. The borrowings disclosed in the 
balance sheet are net of pre-paid facility costs.

Summary of significant accounting policies continued
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018

II  Critical accounting estimates, assumptions  
and judgements continued
F  Provision for income taxes
The Group is subject to income taxes in numerous jurisdictions. 
Significant judgement is required in determining the worldwide provision 
for income taxes including structuring activities undertaken by the Group 
and the application of complex transfer pricing rules. The Group recognises 
liabilities for anticipated settlement of tax issues based on judgements of 
whether additional taxes will be due. Significant issues may take several 
periods to resolve. In making judgments on the probability and amount of 
any tax charge, management takes into account:

• Status of the unresolved matter; 
• Strength of technical argument and clarity of legislation; 
• External advice; 
• Resolution process, past experience and precedents set with the 

particular taxing authority; 

• Agreements previously reached in other jurisdictions on comparable 

issues; and 

• Statute of limitations.

The key judgments in the period were related to the internal transfer of 
certain Group companies and whether this would create an additional 
tax charge through non-compliance with specific operational and 
transactional restrictions arising from US tax legislation and their 
application to the acquisition of the HPE Software business. Based on 
their assessment the directors have concluded that no tax provisions are 
required with regards to these matters.

The ultimate tax liability may differ from the amount provided depending 
on interpretations of tax law, settlement negotiations or changes in 
legislation. Where the final tax outcome of these matters is different from 
the amounts that were initially recorded, such differences will impact the 
income tax and deferred tax provisions in the period in which such 
determination is made.

III Financial risk factors
The Group’s multi-national operations expose it to a variety of financial 
risks that include the effects of changes in credit risk, foreign currency 
risk, interest rate risk and liquidity risk. Risk management is carried out by 
a central treasury department under policies approved by the board of 
directors. Group treasury identifies and evaluates financial risks alongside 
the Group’s operating units. The board provides written principles for risk 
management together with specific policies covering areas such as 
foreign currency risk, interest rate risk, credit risk and liquidity risk, use of 
derivative financial instruments and non-derivative financial instruments 
as appropriate, and investment of excess funds.

A  Credit risk
Financial instruments which potentially expose the Group to a 
concentration of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents 
and accounts receivable. Cash equivalents are deposited with high-credit 
quality financial institutions. The Group provides credit to customers in the 
normal course of business. Collateral is not required for those receivables, 
but on-going credit evaluations of customers’ financial conditions are 
performed. The Group maintains a provision for impairment based upon 
the expected collectability of accounts receivable. The Group sells 
products and services to a wide range of customers around the world and 
therefore believes there is no material concentration of credit risk.

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Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018

1 Segmental reporting
In accordance with IFRS 8, “Operating Segments”, the Group has derived the information for its segmental reporting using the information used by 
the Chief Operating Decision Maker for the purposes of resource allocation and assessment of segment performance. The Chief Operating Decision 
Maker (“CODM”) is defined as the Executive Committee, which has changed its composition during the period.

For the six months to 31 October 2017, the Executive Committee consisted of the Executive Chairman, Chief Executive Officers of Micro Focus and 
SUSE, Chief Financial Officer and the Chief Operating Officer.

For the six months to 30 April 2018, the Executive Committee consisted of the Executive Chairman, the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Executive 
Officer of SUSE and the Chief Financial Officer.

On 2 July 2018, the Group then announced the proposed sale of SUSE (note 19), one of the Group’s two historical operating segments, approved by 
the shareholders on 21 August 2018. As a result, for management purposes, following the agreement to dispose of the SUSE business, which is 
presented as a discontinued operation, the Group is organised into a single reporting segment comprising the Micro Focus Product Portfolio. 
Consistent with this the Chief Executive Officer of SUSE, Nils Brauckmann, stepped down from the board on 11 July 2018 to concentrate on the sale. 
As such, the CODM from 11 July 2018 consisted of the Executive Chairman, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer.

The Group’s segment under IFRS 8 is:

Micro Focus Product Portfolio – The Micro Focus Product Portfolio segment contains mature infrastructure software products that are managed 
on a portfolio basis akin to a “fund of funds” investment portfolio. This portfolio is managed with a single product group that makes and maintains the 
software, whilst the software is sold and supported through a geographic Go-to-Market organisation. The products within the existing Micro Focus 
Product Portfolio are grouped together into five sub-portfolios based on industrial logic and management of the Micro Focus sub-portfolios: Application 
Modernisation & Connectivity, Application Delivery Management, IT Operations Management, Security and Information Management & Governance.

The segmental reporting is consistent with that used in internal management reporting. During the current period the profit measure used by the 
Executive Committee is Adjusted EBITDA. Previously it was Adjusted Operating Profit. 

The internal management reporting that the Executive Committee receives includes a pool of centrally managed costs, which are allocated between 
Micro Focus and the SUSE business based on identifiable segment specific costs with the remainder allocated based on other criteria including 
revenue and headcount.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

151

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

1 Segmental reporting continued

Revenue before deferred revenue haircut 
Deferred revenue haircut

Segment revenue

Directly managed costs
Allocation of centrally managed costs

Total segment costs

Adjusted Operating Profit 
Exceptional items
Share-based compensation charge
Amortisation of purchased intangibles

Operating profit
Net finance costs

Profit before tax

Reconciliation to Adjusted EBITDA:
Profit before tax
Finance costs
Finance income
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment
Amortisation of intangible assets
Exceptional items (reported in Operating profit)
Share-based compensation charge
Product development intangible costs capitalised
Foreign exchange credit

Adjusted EBITDA

18 months 
ended 
31 October 
2018 
$’000
4,815, 460
(61,062)

Restated1 
12 months 
ended  
30 April  
2017
$’000
1,084,165
(6,892)

4,754,398

1,077,273

(2,997,545)
52,730

(564,072)
26,196

(2,944,815)

(537,876)

1,809,583
(538,156)
(64,284)
(830,319)

376,824
(342,712)

539,397
(97,258)
(31,463)
(183,284)

227,392
(95,845)

34,112

131,547

34,112
350,366
(7,654)
88,611
903,008
538,156
64,284
(44,350)
(37,292)

131,547
96,824
(979)
9,704
206,751
97,258
31,463
(27,664)
(2,901)

1,889,241

542,003

Note

4
35
11

6

6
6
12
11
4
35
11

1  The comparatives for the 12 months to 30 April 2017 have been restated to reflect the divestiture of the SUSE business segment (note 19).

No measure of total assets and total liabilities for the segment has been reported as such amounts are not regularly provided to the Chief Operating 
Decision Maker.

152

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

2 Supplementary information
Analysis by geography
The Group is domiciled in the UK. The Group’s total segmental revenue from external customers by geographical location is detailed below:

UK
USA
Germany
France
Japan
Other

Total

18 months
ended
31 October 
2018
$’000
299,579
2,279,840
309,534
195,464
145,820
1,524,161

Restated1 

12 months
ended
30 April 
2017
$’000
52,230
551,519
86,799
43,242
42,369
301,114

4,754,398

1,077,273

1  The comparatives for the 12 months to 30 April 2017 have been restated to reflect the divestiture of the SUSE business segment (note 19).

The total of non-current assets other than financial instruments and deferred tax assets as at 31 October 2018 located in the USA is $5,145.8m 
(30 April 2017: $1,867.5m), the total in the non-USA is $ 8,488.3m (30 April 2017: $ 2,128.0m). They exclude trade and other receivables, derivative 
financial instruments and deferred tax.

Analysis of revenue by product
Set out below is an analysis of revenue from continuing operations recognised between the principal product portfolios for the 18 months ended 
31 October 2018 and 12 months ended 30 April 2017. As a result of the acquisition of the HPE Software business the Group’s product portfolios 
have been redefined. The comparatives for the 12 months ended 30 April 2017 have not been represented into the new product portfolios.

18 months ended 31 October 2018:

Application Modernisation & Connectivity
Application Delivery Management
IT Operations Management
Security
Information Management & Governance

Subtotal 
Deferred revenue haircut

Total Revenue

Licence
$’000
256,256
185,460
363,150
291,603
117,227

Maintenance
$’000
497,632
646,711
869,891
580,228
267,133

Subscription
$’000
–
–
–
–
–

Consulting
$’000
17,941
41,639
192,772
81,429
32,521

SaaS  
& other 
recurring
$’000
–
114,145
15,055
41,614
203,053

Total
$’000
771,829
987,955
1,440,868
994,874
619,934

1,213,696
(7,592)

2,861,595
(42,657)

1,206,104

2,818,938

–
–

–

366,302
(2,046)

373,867
(8,767)

4,815,460
(61,062)

364,256

365,100

4,754,398

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

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01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

2 Supplementary information continued
12 months ended 30 April 2017 (restated1):

CDMS
Host Connectivity
Identity, Access & Security
Development & IT Operations Management Tools
Collaboration & Networking

Subtotal
Deferred revenue haircut

Total Revenue

Licence
$’000
105,962
69,158
48,635
55,464
29,175

308,394
–

Maintenance
$’000
149,668
104,912
141,298
219,604
112,079

727,561
(6,892)

308,394

720,669

Subscription
$’000
–
–
–
–
–

–
–

–

Consulting
$’000
9,530
1,857
18,354
13,860
4,609

48,210
–

48,210

SaaS  
& other 
recurring
$’000
–
–
–
–
–

Total
$’000
265,160
175,927
208,287
288,928
145,863

–
–

–

1,084,165
(6,892)

1,077,273

1  The comparatives for the 12 months to 30 April 2017 have been restated to reflect the divestiture of the SUSE business segment (note 19).

3 Profit before tax
Profit before tax is stated after charging/(crediting) the following operating costs/(gains) classified by the nature of the costs/(gains):

Staff costs
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment
– owned assets
– leased assets
Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment
Amortisation of intangibles
Inventories
– cost of inventories recognised as debit/(credit) (included in cost of sales)
Operating le ase rentals payable
– plant and machinery
– property
Provision for receivables impairment
Foreign exchange gains

1  The comparatives for the 12 months to 30 April 2017 have been restated to reflect the divestiture of the SUSE business segment (note 19).

18 months
ended
31 October 
2018
$’000
2,095,025

71,184
17,427
4,581
903,008

Restated1
12 months
ended
30 April 
2017
$’000
480,654

9,704
–
520
206,751

324

(71)

8,840
85,328
40,016
(37,292)

2,880
18,356
2,023
(2,901)

Note
35

12
12
12
11

16

17

154

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

4 Exceptional items

Reported within Operating profit:
Integration costs
Pre-acquisition costs
Acquisition costs
Property related costs
Severance and legal costs
Divestiture

Reported within finance costs:
Finance costs incurred in escrow period (note 6)
Reported within finance income:
Finance income earned in escrow period (note 6)

Exceptional costs before tax
Tax:
Tax effect of exceptional items
Tax exceptional item

Exceptional (income)/costs after tax

18 months
ended
31 October 
2018
$’000

12 months
 ended
30 April 
2017
$’000

278,995
43,025
27,116
38,014
129,743 
21,263

538,156

6,326

(553)

5,773

27,696
58,004
2,597
5,525
3,436
–

97,258

–

–

–

543,929

97,258

(105,911)
(692,285)

(11,633)
–

(798,196)

(11,633)

(254,267)

85,625

Exceptional items are allocated to the financial statement lines (for example: cost of sales) in the Consolidated statement of comprehensive income 
based on the nature and function of the costs, for example restructuring costs related to employees are classified where their original employment 
costs are recorded.

Integration costs
Integration costs of $279.0m for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 (12 months to 30 April 2017: $27.7m) arose mainly from the work being 
done in integrating Serena, GWAVA and the HPE Software business into the Micro Focus Product Portfolio. Other activities include system 
integration costs.

Pre-acquisition costs
The pre-acquisition costs of $43.0m for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 (12 months to 30 April 2017: $58.0m) relate to the evaluation of the 
acquisition of the HPE Software business, which was announced in October 2016 and was completed on 1 September 2017. The costs relate to due 
diligence work, legal work on the acquisition agreements, professional advisors on the transaction and pre-integration costs relating to activities in 
readiness for the HPE Software business acquisition across all functions of the existing Micro Focus business.

Acquisition costs
The acquisition costs of $27.1m for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 include external costs in completing the acquisition of the HPE Software 
business in September 2018 (including $7.7m in respect of US excise tax payable on the award of long-term incentives and Additional Share Grants 
to four senior employees) and costs relating to the acquisition of COBOL-IT SAS (12 months to 30 April 2017: $2.6m related to the acquisitions of 
Serena in May 2016 and GWAVA in October 2016). The external costs mainly relate to due diligence work, legal work on the acquisition agreements 
and professional advisors on the transaction.

Property related costs
Property related costs of $38.0m for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 (12 months to 30 April 2017: $5.5m) relate mainly to the assessment 
and reassessment of leases on empty or sublet properties held by the Group, in particular in North America, and the cost of site consolidations.

Severance and legal costs
Severance and legal costs of $129.7m for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 (12 months to 30 April 2017: $3.4m) relate mainly to termination 
costs for employees after acquisition relating to the integration of the HPE Software business into the Micro Focus Product Portfolio. The costs for 
the 12 months ended 30 April 2017 related to termination costs for senior Serena executives after acquisition.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

155

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

4 Exceptional items continued
Divestiture
Divestiture costs of $21.3m for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 (12 months to 30 April 2017: nil) relate mainly to fees paid to professional 
advisors relating to the SUSE divestiture, due to be completed in the first quarter of 2019 (note 19).

Finance income and finance costs
Finance costs of $6.3m (12 months to 30 April 2017: $nil) and finance income of $0.6m (12 months to 30 April 2017: $nil) for the 18 months ended 
31 October 2018 relate to interest (charged and gained) on additional term loan facilities drawn down in relation to the acquisition of the HPE 
Software business, between the date the facilities were drawn into escrow and the acquisition date.

Tax
The tax effect of exceptional items is a credit to the income statement of $798.2m for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 (12 months to 
30 April 2017: $11.6m). The exceptional tax credit of $692.3m (2017: $nil) in the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 relates to the impact of US tax 
reforms, comprised of a credit of $930.6m in respect of the re-measurement of deferred tax liabilities and a transition tax charge of $238.3m payable 
over eight years.

5 Services provided by the Group’s auditors and network of firms
During the 18 months ended 31 October 2018, the Group obtained the following services from the Group’s auditors as detailed below:

Audit of Company
Audit of subsidiaries

Total audit

Audit related assurance services 
Other assurance services

Total assurance services

Tax compliance services
Tax advisory services 

Services relating to taxation

Other non-audit services

Total

18 months
ended
31 October 
2018
$’000
12,223
1,887

12 months
ended
30 April 
2017
$’000
1,032
2,494

14,110

914
664

1,578

214
196

410

35

3,526

2,634
–

2,634

49
53

102

7,470

16,133

13,732

The 18 months ended 31 October 2018 fees represent fees paid to KPMG LLP, as the current auditor. The year ended 30 April 2017 fees represent 
fees paid to the previous auditor, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.

Audit related assurance services in the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 relate primarily to the additional audit procedures performed on the 
Micro Focus International plc financial statements that are included in US filings and two interim reviews, for both six month periods ending 
31 October 2017 and 30 April 2018.

Other assurance services in the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 relate primarily to the auditor’s assurance work in relation to the SUSE divestiture 
and licence verification compliance work. 

The remaining non-audit services in the period included a limited amount of tax compliance and tax advice.

156

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

6 Finance income and finance costs

Finance costs
Interest on bank borrowings
Commitment fees
Amortisation of facility costs and original issue discounts

Finance costs on bank borrowings
Net interest expense on retirement obligations 
Finance lease expense
Interest rate swaps: cash flow hedges, transfer from equity
Other

Total

Finance income
Bank interest
Interest on non-plan pension assets 
Other

Total

Net finance cost

Included within exceptional items
Finance costs incurred in escrow period
Finance income earned in escrow period

7 Taxation

Current tax
Current period
Adjustments to tax in respect of previous periods

Deferred tax
Origination and reversal of timing differences
Adjustments to tax in respect of previous periods
Impact of change in tax rates

Total tax (credit)/charge

Note

27

27

4

18 months
ended
31 October 
2018
$’000

12 months
ended
30 April 
2017
$’000

276,530
3,294
60,377

340,201
2,823
2,690
3,399
1,253

81,157
796
14,219

96,172
565
–
–
87

350,366

96,824

18 months
ended
31 October 
2018
$’000

12 months
ended
30 April 
2017
$’000

3,593
633
3,428

7,654

438
404
137

979

342,712

95,845

6,326
(553)

5,773

–
–

–

18 months
ended
31 October 
2018
$’000

245,875
(14,725)

231,150

Restated
12 months
ended
30 April 
2017
$’000

33,928
1,698

35,626

26,421
1,213
(931,865)

(22,426)
(4,445)
(1,291)

(904,231)

(28,162)

(673,081)

7,464

For the 18 months ended 31 October 2018, a deferred tax debit of $23.7m (12 months ended 30 April 2017: $23.0m credit) and current tax credit 
of $4.1m (12 months ended 30 April 2017: $4.1m credit) have been recognised in equity in relation to share options. A current tax debit of $16.4m 
(12 months ended 30 April 2017: $0.0m) has been recognised in the hedging reserve (note 33). In addition, a deferred tax credit of $4.3m 
(12 months ended 30 April 2017: $0.3m debit) has been recognised in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income in relation to defined 
benefit pension schemes.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

157

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

7 Taxation continued
The tax charge for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 is lower than the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 19.00% (12 months ended 
30 April 2017: 19.92%). The differences are explained below:

Profit before taxation
Tax at UK corporation tax rate 19.00% (2017: 19.92%) 
Effects of:
Tax rates other than the UK standard rate
Intra-Group financing
Innovation tax credit benefits
US foreign inclusion income
US transition tax
Share options
Movement in deferred tax not recognised
Effect of change in tax rates
Expenses not deductible and other permanent differences 

Adjustments to tax in respect of previous periods:
Current tax 
Deferred tax

Total taxation

18 months
 ended
31 October 
2018
$’000
34,112
6,481

17,778
(20,654)
(21,374)
39,053
238,270
10,236
7,306
(931,865)
(4,800)

Restated
12 months
ended
30 April 
2017
$’000
131,547
26,005

571
(15,636)
(9,834)
394
–
–
200
(1,291)
9,802

(659,569)

10,211

(14,725)
1,213

(13,512)

(673,081)

1,698
(4,445)

(2,747)

7,464

Tax rates other than the UK standard rate includes provisions for uncertain tax positions relating to the risk of challenge from tax authorities to the 
geographic allocation of profits across the Group. The increase in the period reflects the increased size of the Group following the HPE Software 
business acquisition and the impact of the OECD’s continuing Base Erosion and Profit Shifting project.

The Group continues to benefit from the UK’s Patent Box regime, US R&D tax credits and other innovation-based tax credits offered by certain 
jurisdictions, the benefit for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 being $21.4m (12 months ended 30 April 2017: $9.8m). The Group realised 
benefits in relation to intra-Group financing of $20.7m for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 (12 months ended 30 April 2017: $15.6.m). The 
benefits mostly relate to arrangements put in place to facilitate the acquisitions of the HPE Software business, TAG and Serena.

US foreign inclusion income includes non-US amounts deemed repatriated to, and therefore taxable in, the US in the current period.

US tax reforms result in a net one-off credit to the income statement in the period of $692.3m being a credit of $930.6m in respect of the re-
measurement of deferred tax liabilities due to the reduction of the US federal tax rate from 35% to 21% and a transition tax charge of $238.3m 
payable over eight years.

The Group recognised a net overall charge in respect of share options due to deferred tax credits arising on options held at the balance sheet date 
being lower than the current tax charge because of the terms of the options.

The movement in deferred tax assets and liabilities during the period is analysed in note 30.

The Group realised a net credit in relation to the true-up of prior period, current and deferred tax estimates of $13.5m for the 18 months ended 
31 October 2018 (12 months ended 30 April 2017: $2.7m). Within the current tax true up is a credit of $11.2m in respect of items within the income 
tax reserve, which are no longer considered probable to arise.

The Group’s tax charge is subject to various factors, many of which are outside the control of the Group, including changes in local tax legislation, 
and specifically US tax reform, the OECD’s Base Erosion and Profit Shifting project and the consequences of Brexit. The European Commission 
has issued preliminary findings and opened a state aid investigation into the UK’s “Financing Company Partial Exemption” legislation. Similar to other 
UK based international companies Micro Focus may be affected by the final outcome of this investigation and is monitoring developments. If the 
preliminary findings of the European Commission’s investigation into the UK legislation are upheld, Micro Focus has calculated that the maximum 
potential tax liability would be $57.8m. Based on its current assessment Micro Focus believes that no provision is required in respect of this issue. 

158

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

8 Dividends

Equity – ordinary
Final paid 58.33 cents (2017: 49.74 cents) per ordinary share
First Interim paid 34.60 cents (2017: 29.73 cents) per ordinary share 
Second Interim paid 58.33 cents (2017: nil cents) per ordinary share

18 months
ended
31 October 
2018
$’000
133,889
156,243
252,029

12 months
ended
30 April 
2017
$’000
111,023
66,512
–

542,161

177,535

The directors announced a final dividend of 58.33 cents per share payable on 5 April 2019 to shareholders who are registered at 1 March 2019. 
This final dividend, amounting to $249.0m has not been recognised as a liability as at 31 October 2018.

9 Earnings per share
The calculation of the basic earnings per share has been based on the earnings attributable to owners of the parent and the weighted average 
number of shares for each period.

Reconciliation of the earnings and weighted average number of shares:

Earnings ($’000)
Profit for the period from continuing operations
Profit for the period from discontinued operations

Number of shares (‘000)
Weighted average number of shares
Dilutive effects of shares

Earnings per share 
Basic earnings per share (cents)
Continuing operations
Discontinued operation

Diluted earnings per share (cents)
Continuing operations
Discontinued operation

Basic earnings per share (pence)
Continuing operations
Discontinued operation

18 months
ended
31 October 
2018

Restated
12 months
ended
30 April 
2017

707,108
76,940

124,186
33,720

784,048

157,906

388,717
10,963

229,238
8,165

399,680

237,403

181.91
19.79

201.70

176.92
19.25

196.17

136.73
14.88

151.61

54.17
14.71

68.88

52.31
14.20

66.51

41.88
11.37

53.25

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

159

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

9 Earnings per share continued

Diluted earnings per share (pence)
Continuing operations
Discontinued operations

Earnings attributable to ordinary shareholders
From continuing operations
Excluding non-controlling interests

Profit for the period from continuing operations
From discontinued operation

Average exchange rate

18 months
ended
31 October 
2018

132.98
14.47

147.45

707,193
(85)

707,108
76,940

Restated
12 months
ended
30 April 
2017

40.44
10.98

51.42

124,083
103

124,186
33,720

784,048

157,906

$1.33/£1

$1.29/£1

The weighted average number of shares excludes treasury shares that do not have dividend rights (note 31). The basic weighted average number 
of shares has increased from 229 million to 389 million, primarily due to the effect of the issue of shares to acquire the HPE Software business during 
the period (note 31).

10 Goodwill

Cost and net book amount
At 1 May 
Acquisitions
Reclassification to assets held for sale

A segment-level summary of the goodwill allocation is presented below:
Micro Focus
SUSE

Note

39
19

31 October 
2018
$’000

30 April 
2017
$’000

2,828,604
4,863,962
(887,523)

2,436,168
392,436
–

6,805,043

2,828,604

6,805,043
–

1,969,038
859,566

6,805,043

2,828,604

Goodwill acquired through business combinations has been allocated to a cash-generating unit (“CGU”) for the purpose of impairment testing. 

The goodwill arising on the acquisition of the HPE Software business of $4,858.4m (note 39) and COBOL-IT, SAS (“COBOL-IT”) of $5.6m (note 39) 
have been allocated to the Micro Focus CGU as this is consistent with the segment reporting that used in internal management reporting.

Of the additions to goodwill, there is no amount expected to be deductible for tax purposes.

160

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

10 Goodwill continued
Impairment test
Impairment of goodwill is tested annually, or more frequently where there is indication of impairment. An impairment test is a comparison of the 
carrying value of the assets of the CGU with their recoverable amount. Where the recoverable amount is less than the carrying value, an 
impairment results.

The annual impairment test has historically been carried out at 30 April. Going forward, starting with this period end, the annual test has been moved 
to 31 October to align with the new period-end.

During the period as a result of the proposed divestiture of SUSE, $859.6m of goodwill historically allocated to the SUSE CGU has been reclassified 
within assets held for sale (note 19). The SUSE goodwill was subject to impairment test both at the point it was initially recorded as an asset held 
for sale and again at period end. At both dates on a fair value less costs to sell basis, based on the agreed cash consideration of $2.535bn, no 
impairment was identified. As a result of the proposed Atalla disposal (which completed post period end, note 19), $27.9m of goodwill was also 
reclassified within assets held for sale from the Micro Focus CGU. No impairment was identified. 

The recoverable amount of the Micro Focus CGU is determined based on its Value In Use (“VIU”). The VIU includes estimates about the future 
financial performance of the CGU and is based on five year projections and then a terminal value calculation. It utilises discounted board approved 
forecasts for 2019 and 2020 with the following three years also reflecting management’s expectation of the medium and long-term growth prospects 
which have been applied based upon the expected operating performance of the CGU and growth prospects in the CGU’s market. The cash flow 
projections and inputs combine past performance with adjustments as appropriate where the directors believe that past performance and rates are 
not indicative of future performance and rates.

Key assumptions
Key assumptions in the VIU are considered to be the discount rate and long-term growth rate. These have been assessed taking into consideration 
the current economic climate and the resulting impact on expected growth and discount rates.

The long-term growth rate and discount rate used in the VIU calculation are:

Long-term growth rate
Pre-tax discount rate

2018
1.0%
9.7%

2017
1.0%
11.4%

The directors have considered reasonably possible changes in the key assumptions that could have an adverse impact, taking into consideration that 
the Group is insulated from some significant adverse impacts by its geographical spread and that the Group’s cost base is flexible and could quickly 
respond to market changes.

The directors have assessed that a reasonably possible change in the discount rate is an absolute movement of 2.0% (2017: 2.0%) and this increase 
would cause the carrying value of the Micro Focus CGU to exceed its recoverable amount. An increase in the discount rate of 1.3% to 11.0% would 
reduce the amount by which the recoverable amount exceeds its carrying value from $2.2bn to $nil. The directors have also assessed that there is not 
a reasonably possible change in the long-term growth rate that would result in an impairment. 

No impairment charge resulted from the goodwill tests for impairment in the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 (30 April 2017: no impairment).

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

161

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

11 Other intangible assets

Cost
At 1 May 2017
Continuing operations:
Acquisitions – HPE Software business (note 39)
Acquisitions – COBOL-IT (note 39)
Acquisitions – Covertix (note 39)
Additions
Additions – external consultants
Exchange adjustments
Discontinued operation:
Reclassification to current assets classified 
as held for sale (note 19)

Purchased 
software
$’000

Product 
development 
costs
$’000

Purchased intangibles

Technology
$’000

Trade names
$’000

Customer 
relationships
$’000

Lease
contracts
$’000

Total
$’000

24,635

213,822

398,917

239,621

972,378

–

1,849,373

 72,825 
 – 
 2,490 
 46,812
 – 
 (439)

 – 
 – 
 – 
 44,350
 953 
 – 

 1,809,000 
 1,537 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

 163,000 
 154 
 – 
 – 
 – 
–

 4,480,000 
 12,317 
– 
 – 
 – 
 – 

 15,000 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

 6,539,825 
 14,008 
 2,490 
 91,162 
 953 
 (439)

(5,121)

–

(50,987)

(135,116)

(87,521)

–

 (278,745)

At 31 October 2018

 141,202 

 259,125 

 2,158,467 

 267,659 

 5,377,174 

 15,000 

 8,218,627 

Accumulated amortisation
At 1 May 2017
Continuing operations:
Amortisation charge for the period
Exchange adjustments
Discontinued operation:
Amortisation charge for the period
Reclassification to current assets classified 
as held for sale (note 19)

20,970

164,695

222,986

38,849

312,503

–

760,003

 30,682 
 (848)

 42,007 
 20 

 280,478 
 – 

 26,724 
 – 

 519,935 
 – 

 3,182 
 – 

 903,008 
 (828)

765 

 (1,422)

 – 

 – 

 13,425 

 9,118 

 16,894 

 – 

 40,202 

 (38,037)

 (25,810)

 (47,814)

 – 

 (113,083)

At 31 October 2018

 50,147 

 206,722 

 478,852 

48,881 

 801,518 

 3,182 

 1,589,302

Net book amount at 31 October 2018

 91,055 

 52,403 

 1,679,615 

 218,778 

 4,575,656 

 11,818 

 6,629,325 

Net book amount at 30 April 2017

3,665

49,127

175,931

200,772

659,875

–

1,089,370

162

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

11 Other intangible assets continued

Cost
At 1 May 2016
Acquisitions (note 39)
Additions
Additions – external consultants
Exchange adjustments

At 30 April 2017

Accumulated amortisation
At 1 May 2016
Charge for the year
Exchange adjustments

At 30 April 2017

Net book amount at 30 April 2017

Net book amount at 30 April 2016

Purchased 
software
$’000

Product 
development 
costs
$’000

Purchased intangibles

Technology
$’000

Trade names
$’000

Customer 
relationships
$’000

Lease 
contracts
$’000

Total
$’000

22,028
–
3,162
–
(555)

185,546
–
27,664
612
–

303,672
95,245
–
–
–

217,510
22,111
–
–
–

761,634
210,744
–
–
–

24,635

213,822

398,917

239,621

972,378

20,061
1,175
(266)

142,297
22,398
–

153,888
69,098
–

22,854
15,995
–

184,735
127,768
–

20,970

164,695

222,986

38,849

312,503

3,665

1,967

49,127

175,931

200,772

659,875

43,249

149,784

194,656

576,899

–
–
–
–
–

–

–
–
–

–

–

–

1,490,390
328,100
30,826
612
(555)

1,849,373

523,835
236,434
(266)

760,003

1,089,370

966,555

Intangible assets, with the exception of purchased software and internally generated product development costs, relate to identifiable assets 
purchased as part of the Group’s business combinations. Intangible assets are amortised on a straight-line basis over their expected useful economic 
life – see Group accounting policy I.

Expenditure totalling $91.2m (12 months to 30 April 2017: $31.4m) was made in the 18 months ended 31 October 2018, including $45.3m in 
respect of development costs and $46.8m of purchased software. The acquisitions of the HPE Software business, COBOL-IT and Covertix in the 
18 months ended 31 October 2018 gave rise to an addition of $6,556.3m to purchased intangibles (note 39). The acquisitions of Serena, GWAVA 
and OpenATTIC in the year ended 30 April 2017 gave rise to an addition of $328.1m to purchased intangibles (note 39).

Of the $45.3m of additions to product development costs, $44.4m (2017: $27.7m) relates to internal product development costs and $0.9m (2017: 
$0.6m) to external consultants’ product development costs.

At 31 October 2018, the unamortised lives of technology assets were in the range of two to 10 years, customer relationships in the range of one to 
10 years and trade names in the range of 10 to 20 years.

Included in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 and the 12 months ended 
30 April 2017 was:

For continuing operations:
Cost of sales:
– amortisation of product development costs
– amortisation of acquired purchased technology
Selling and distribution:
– amortisation of acquired purchased trade names, customer relationships and lease contracts 
Administrative expenses:
– amortisation of purchased software

Total amortisation charge for the period

Research and development:
– capitalisation of product development costs

1  The comparatives for the 12 months to 30 April 2017 have been restated to reflect the divestiture of the SUSE business segment (note 19).

18 months
ended
31 October 
2018
$’000

Restated1
12 months
ended
30 April  
2017
$’000

42,007
280,478

22,398
59,029

549,841

124,254

30,682

1,070

903,008

206,751

44,350

27,664

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

163

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

12 Property, plant and equipment

Cost 
At 1 May 2017
Continuing operations:
Acquisition – HPE Software business (note 39)
Acquisition – COBOL-IT (note 39)
Additions
Disposals
Exchange adjustments
Discontinued operation:
Additions
Disposals
Exchange adjustments
Reclassification to current assets classified as held for sale (note 19)

Freehold land 
and buildings
$’000

Leasehold
improvements
$’000

Computer
equipment
$’000

Fixtures
and fittings
$’000

Total
$’000

14,363

27,269

32,615

6,037

80,284

–
–
–
–
(15)

–
–
–
–

56,568
–
10,444
(7,417)
(3,609)

20
–
123
(4,198)

79,473
52
33,286
(27,105)
(8,205)

2,018
(85)
264
(9,050)

24,077
–
6,408
(4,645)
(2,467)

29
(15)
6
(344)

160,118
52
50,138
(39,167)
(14,296)

2,067
(100)
393
(13,592)

At 31 October 2018

14,348

79,200

103,263

29,086

225,897

Accumulated depreciation
At 1 May 2017
Continuing operations:
Charge for the period
Disposals
Exchange adjustments
Discontinued operation:
Charge for the period
Disposals
Exchange adjustments
Reclassification to current assets classified as held for sale (note 19)

At 31 October 2018

Net book amount at 31 October 2018

Net book amount at 1 May 2017

1,851

12,751

22,063

2,663

39,328

479
–
(51)

–
–
–
–

2,279

12,069

12,512

26,271
(4,005)
(1,354)

2,695
–
29
(2,078)

34,309

44,891

14,518

50,725
(26,858)
(6,406)

11,136
(3,745)
(2,696)

88,611
(34,608)
(10,507)

2,612
(66)
107
(5,595)

36,582

66,681

10,552

1,261
(11)
2
(133)

8,477

6,568
(77)
138
(7,806)

81,647

20,609

144,250

3,374

40,956

164

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

12 Property, plant and equipment continued

Cost
At 1 May 2016
Reclassified from assets held for sale
Acquisition – Serena (note 39)
Acquisition – GWAVA (note 39)
Additions
Disposals
Exchange adjustments

At 30 April 2017

Accumulated depreciation
At 1 May 2016
Charge for the year
Disposals
Exchange adjustments

At 30 April 2017

Net book amount at 30 April 2017

Net book amount at 1 May 2016

Freehold land 
and buildings
$’000

Leasehold
improvements
$’000

Computer
equipment
$’000

Fixtures
and fittings
$’000

15,183
888
–
–
75
–
(1,783)

23,418
–
1,068
–
3,536
(450)
(303)

14,363

27,269

1,571
454
–
(174)

1,851

12,512

13,612

8,814
4,170
(79)
(154)

12,751

14,518

14,604

25,455
–
648
111
7,739
(589)
(749)

32,615

16,741
6,132
(560)
(250)

22,063

10,552

8,714

5,604
–
211
84
377
(218)
(21)

6,037

1,667
1,038
(98)
56

2,663

3,374

3,937

Total
$’000

69,660
888
1,927
195
11,727
(1,257)
(2,856)

80,284

28,793
11,794
(737)
(522)

39,328

40,956

40,867

Depreciation for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 of $95.2m (12 months ended 30 April 2017: $11.8m) is included within administrative 
expenses and cost of sales in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income. The carrying value of computer equipment held under finance 
leases and hire purchase contracts as at 31 October 2018 was $25.9m (30 April 2017 $nil).

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

165

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

13 Group entities
Subsidiaries
Details of subsidiaries as at 31 October 2018 are provided below.

NetIQ Ireland Limited 
Novell Cayman Software Unlimited Company 
Novell Cayman Software International Unlimited Company 
Novell Ireland Real Estate Unlimited Company 
SUSE Linux Holdings Limited 
Novell Software International Limited 

1
2
3
4
5

Company name
Holding companies:
Micro Focus Midco Limited
Micro Focus Group Limited 
Micro Focus CHC Limited 
Micro Focus MHC Limited 
Micro Focus Holdings Unlimited
(formerly Micro Focus Holdings Limited) 
Micro Focus (IP) Limited
6
Micro Focus (US) Holdings 
7
Micro Focus IP Limited 
8
Novell Holdings Deutschland GmbH
9
10 Micro Focus Finance Ireland Limited 
11 Micro Focus Group Holdings Unlimited 
12 Micro Focus International Holdings Limited 
13
14
15
16
17
18
19 Micro Focus Finance S.a.r.l 
20 Minerva Finance S.à.r.l. 
Borland Corporation
21
22 Micro Focus (US) Group, Inc.
23 MA FinanceCo., LLC
24
25 Novell Holdings, Inc. 
26 Novell International Holdings, Inc. 
27 Micro Focus (US) International Holdings, Inc. 
Spartacus Acquisition Holdings Corp.
28
Spartacus Acquisition Corp.
29
Serena Software, Inc. 
30
31
Serena Holdings Limited
32 Merant Holdings Limited
33 GWAVA ULC (formerly GWAVA Inc.) 
34

The Attachmate Group, Inc. 

Seattle Holdings, Inc. 
Trading companies:
Attachmate Group Australia Pty Limited 
Borland Australia Pty Limited 

Attachmate Group Austria GmbH 
Borland Entwicklung GmbH 
Attachmate Group Belgium BVBA 

35
36
37 Micro Focus Pty Limited 
38
39
40
41 Micro Focus SPRL (formerly Micro Focus NV) 
42
43 Micro Focus Programmeação de Computadores Ltda 
44 Novell do Brasil Software Ltda 

Borland Latin America Ltda 

Country of  
incorporation

Principal activities

Key to Registered  
Office address

UK
UK 
UK 
UK 

UK 
UK 
UK 
Cayman Islands
Germany
Ireland
Ireland
Ireland
Ireland
Ireland
Ireland
Ireland
Ireland
Ireland
Luxembourg
Luxembourg
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
UK
UK
Canada
USA

Australia
Australia
Australia
Austria
Austria
Belgium
Belgium
Brazil
Brazil
Brazil

Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 

Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company 
Holding company
Holding company
Holding company

Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Development of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software

1
1
1
1

1
1
1
35
50
67
66
66
66
66
66
66
66
66
80
80
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
6
6
6
1
1
28
6

11
11
11
14
15
16
16
19
19
19

166

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

13 Group entities continued

Company name

45 Micro Focus APM Solutions Limited (EOOD) 
46 Micro Focus (Canada) ULC

(formerly Micro Focus (Canada) Limited)

47 Micro Focus Software (Canada), ULC 
48 Novell Software (Beijing) Limited 
49
50

SUSE Linux s.r.o. 
Attachmate Group Denmark ApS
(formerly Attachmate Group Demark A/s) 

51 Micro Focus Middle East FZ-LLC 

Attachmate Group Germany GmbH

Attachmate Group France SARL
Borland (France) Sarl 

52
53
54 Micro Focus SAS 
55
56 Micro Focus GmbH
SUSE Linux GmbH
57
58
Attachmate Group Hong Kong Limited
59 Micro Focus India Private Limited
60 Micro Focus Software India Private Limited
Relativity Technologies Private Limited
61
62
Attachmate Ireland Limited 
63 Micro Focus Ireland Limited
64 Micro Focus Software (Ireland) Limited 
65 NetIQ Europe Limited 
66 Micro Focus Israel Limited 
Attachmate Group Italy Srl 
67
68 Micro Focus Srl 
69
70 Micro Focus KK 
71
72 NetIQ KK 
73 Novell Corporation (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. 
Attachmate Group Netherlands B.V. 
74
Authasas B.V. 
75
76
Borland B.V. 
77 Micro Focus B.V. (formerly Micro Focus NV) 
78 Micro Focus Software (New Zealand) Unlimited
(formerly Novell New Zealand Limited) 

Novell Japan Limited 

Borland Co, Limited 

Attachmate Group South Africa (Pty) Limited 

Attachmate Group Singapore Pte. Limited
Borland (Singapore) Pte. Limited

79 Micro Focus AS 
80 Novell Portugal Informatica Lda 
81
82
83 Micro Focus Pte Limited
84
85 Micro Focus South Africa (Pty) Limited 
86 Micro Focus Korea Limited 
87 Novell Korea Co., Limited 
88
89 Micro Focus S.L.U. 
90

Attachmate Group Sweden AB 

Attachmate Group Spain S.L. 

Country of  
incorporation
Bulgaria

Principal activities
Development of software

Key to Registered  
Office address
25

Canada
Canada
China
Czech Republic

Development, sale and support of software 27
Sale and support of software
29
Development, sale and support of software 37
Development, sale and support of software 42

Denmark
United Arab 
Emirates
France
France
France
Germany
Germany
Germany
Hong Kong
India
India
India
Ireland
Ireland
Ireland
Ireland
Israel
Italy
Italy
Japan
Japan
Japan
Japan
Malaysia
Netherlands
Netherlands
Netherlands
Netherlands

New Zealand
Norway
Portugal
Singapore
Singapore
Singapore
South Africa
South Africa
South Korea
South Korea
Spain
Spain
Sweden

Sale and support of software

44

124
Sale and support of software
48
Sale and support of software
48
Sale and support of software
48
Sale and support of software
51
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
51
Development, sale and support of software 52
56
Sale and support of software
60
Support of software
Development, sale and support of software 60
60
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
65
Development, sale and support of software 66
Development, sale and support of software 67
65
Sale and support of software
69
Development and support of software
73
Sale and support of software
73
Sale and support of software
78
Sale and support of software
78
Sale and support of software
78
Sale and support of software
78
Sale and support of software
83
Sale and support of software
86
Sale and support of software
86
Sale and support of software
86
Sale and support of software
86
Sale and support of software

Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software

90
91
94
100
100
100
103
104
106
107
108
109
112

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

167

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

13 Group entities continued

Company name
Attachmate Group Schweiz AG 

91
92 Micro Focus GmbH (formerly Micro Focus AG) 
93 Novell (Taiwan) Co., Limited 
Attachmate Teknoloji Satış ve Pazarlama Ltd. Şti. 
94
Attachmate Sales UK Limited
95
96 Micro Focus IP Development Limited
97 Micro Focus Limited
98 Novell U.K. Limited
99 Novell UK Software Limited
100 Micro Focus Software, Inc.
101 Attachmate Corporation
102 Micro Focus (US), Inc.
103 NetIQ Corporation 
104 SUSE LLC 
105 Borland Software Corporation 
106 Serena Software Pty Limited 
107 Serena Software Benelux BVBA 
108 Serena Software Do Brasil Ltda 
109 Serena Software SAS 
110 Serena Software GmbH 
111 Serena Software Japan KK 
112 Serena Software Pte. Limited 
113 Serena Software SA 
114 Serena Software Europe Limited
115 Serena Software Ukraine LLC 
116 GWAVA Technologies Inc.
117 GWAVA EMEA GmbH 
Dormant companies:

118 Cambridge Technology Partners do Brasil s.c. Ltda 
119 NetManage Canada ULC  

(formerly NetManage Canada Inc.) 

120 Borland Canada Software ULC  

(formerly Borland Canada, Inc.

121 Micro Focus International Limited 
122 NetIQ Software International Limited 
123 NOVL Czech s.r.o. 
124 Attachmate Middle East LLC 
125 Borland GmbH 
126 Attachmate (Hong Kong) Limited 
127 Borland (H.K.) Limited 
128 NetIQ Asia Limited
129 Attachmate India Private Limited 
130 Borland Software India Private Limited
131 Cambridge Technology Partners India Private Limited 
132 Novell India Pvt. Limited
133 SUSE Linux Ireland Limited 
134 N.Y. NetManage (Yerushalayim) Limited
135 Novell Israel Software Limited
136 Authasas Advanced Authentication B.V.
137 Borland (Holding) UK Limited 

168

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Country of  
incorporation
Switzerland
Switzerland
Taiwan
Turkey
UK
UK
UK
UK
UK
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
Australia
Belgium
Brazil
France
Germany
Japan
Singapore
Spain
UK
Ukraine
USA
Germany

Brazil

Canada

Canada
Cayman Islands
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Egypt
Germany
Hong Kong
Hong Kong
Hong Kong
India
India
India
India
Ireland
Israel
Israel
Netherlands
UK*

Principal activities
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Development and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Development and support of software
Development and support of software
Development and support of software
Development and support of software
Development and support of software
Development and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software

Key to Registered  
Office address
114
115
119
121
1
1
1
1
1
4
5
4
4
7
4
11
16
21
48
54
78
100
110
1
123
6
53

Dormant

Dormant

Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant

20

27

28
35
41
42
46
51
56
57
57
59
60
60
61
66
70
71
86
1

13 Group entities continued

Company name

138 Borland (UK) Limited
139 Micro Focus APM Solutions Limited
140 Micro Focus UK Limited
141 NetIQ Limited
142 Ryan McFarland Limited
143 XDB (UK) Limited
144 Borland Technology Corporation
145 CJDNLD, LLC 
146 Micro Focus (IP) Holdings Limited 
147 Micro Focus (IP) Ireland Limited 

Country of  
incorporation
UK*
UK*
UK*
UK*
UK*
UK*
USA
USA
UK
Ireland

Principal activities
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant
Dormant

Acquisitions in the period ended 31 October 2018:
HPE Software business:
148 Autonomy Australia Pty Limited 
149 Autonomy Systems Australia Pty Limited 
150 Entco Australia Pty Limited 
151 Entcorp Australia Pty Limited 
152 Autonomy Belgium BVBA 
153 Entco Belgium BVBA 
154 Entco Holdings L.P. 
155 Entco Brasil Servicos de Tecnologia Ltda 
156 Peregrine Systems do Brazil Limitada 
157 Verity Worldwide Limited 
158 Entco Bulgaria EOOD 
159 Autonomy Systems (Canada) Limited
160 Entco Software Canada Co. Logiciels Entco Canada Cie 
161 Entcorp Canada, Inc. 
162 Entco Bellatrix HoldCo 
163 Entco Capital Co 
164 Entco Investment Co 
165 Entco Marigalante Limited 
166 Autonomy Systems (Beijing) Limited Company 
167 Shanghai Entco Software Technology Co., Limited 
168 Entco CentroAmerica CAC Limitada 
169 Entco Costa Rica Limitada 
170 Entcorp Czechia, s.r.o. 
171 Entco Denmark ApS 
172 Entco France SAS 
173 Entco Deutschland GmbH 
174 EntCorp Hong Kong Limited 
175 Autonomy Software Asia Private Limited 
176 Entco IT Services Private Limited
177 Entco Software India Private Limited 
178 Entsoft Galway Limited 
179 Entsoft Holding Ireland Unlimited Company 
180 Entsoft Ireland Limited 
181 Entco Interactive (Israel) Limited 
182 Entcorp Software Israel Limited 
183 Autonomy Italy Srl
184 Entco Italiana Srl
185 Enterprise Corp Italiana Srl 

Sale and support of software
Australia
Sale and support of software
Australia
Sale and support of software
Australia
Sale and support of software
Australia
Sale and support of software
Belgium
Sale and support of software
Belgium
Holding company
Bermuda
Sale and support of software
Brazil
Sale and support of software
Brazil
British Virgin Islands Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Bulgaria
Sale and support of software
Canada
Sale and support of software
Canada
Sale and support of software
Canada
Sale and support of software
Cayman Islands
Sale and support of software
Cayman Islands
Sale and support of software
Cayman Islands
Sale and support of software
Cayman Islands
Sale and support of software
China
Sale and support of software
China
Sale and support of software
Costa Rica
Sale and support of software
Costa Rica
Sale and support of software
Czech Republic
Sale and support of software
Denmark
Sale and support of software
France
Sale and support of software
Germany
Sale and support of software
Hong Kong
Sale and support of software
India
Sale and support of software
India
Sale and support of software
India
Sale and support of software
Ireland
Holding company
Ireland
Sale and support of software
Ireland
Sale and support of software
Israel
Sale and support of software
Israel
Sale and support of software
Italy
Sale and support of software
Italy
Sale and support of software
Italy

Key to Registered  
Office address
1
1
1
1
1
1
4
4
1
66

12
12
12
12
17
17
18
22
23
24
26
32
33
34
36
36
36
36
38
39
40
40
43
45
49
55
58
64
62
63
68
68
68
72
72
74
75
76

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

169

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

13 Group entities continued

Company name

186 Verity Italia Srl 
187 Entcorp Japan K.K.
188 Micro Focus Enterprise Limited 
189 Entco Luxembourg Sarl 
190 Verity Luxembourg S.à r.l. 
191 Entco Software Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. 
192 Entco Mexico, S. de R.L. de C.V. 
193 Entco Software México, S. de R.L. de C.V. 
194 Entcorp Software México, S. de R.L. de C.V. 
195 Autonomy HoldCo B.V.
196 Autonomy Netherlands BV 
197 Entco Caribe B.V. 
198 Entco Draco B.V. 
199 Entco Eastern Holding B.V. 
200 Entco Eastern Holding II B.V. 
201 Entco Enterprise B.V.
202 Entco Gatriam Holding B.V. 
203 Entco HoldCo B.V. 
204 Entco HoldCo I B.V. 
205 Entco HoldCo II B.V.
206 Entco HoldCo III B.V. 
207 Entco HoldCo IV B.V. 
208 Entco Holding Berlin B.V.
209 Entco Holding Finance B.V. 
210 Entco Holding Hague B.V.
211 Entco Holding Hague II B.V.
212 Entco International Trade B.V.
213 Entco Nederland B.V. 
214 Entco Puerto Rico B.V. 
215 Entco Sinope Holding B.V.
216 Entcorp Nederlands B.V. 
217 Verity Benelux B.V. 
218 Entcorp Philippines, Inc. 
219 Entco Polska sp. z o.o. 
220 Entco Caribe B.V. LLC 
221 Entco Puerto Rico B.V. LLC
222 Entco Software Romania SRL 
223 Limited Liability Company Entco 
224 Autonomy Systems Singapore Pte Ltd
225 Micro Focus Software Pte. Ltd

(formerly – Entco Singapore (Sales) Pte. Ltd.) 

226 Entco Software Pte. Ltd
227 Autonomy Systems Software South Africa Pty Ltd 
228 Entco Field Delivery Spain, S.L.U. 
229 EntCo Software Spain S.L.U.
230 Entco Sverige AB 
231 Entco International Sàrl 
232 Entco Schweiz GmbH 
233 Trilead GmbH 
234 Entco Turkey Teknoloji Çözümleri Limited Şirketi 

170

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Country of  
Principal activities
incorporation
Sale and support of software
Italy
Sale and support of software
Japan
Sale and support of software
Japan
Sale and support of software
Luxembourg
Sale and support of software
Luxembourg
Sale and support of software
Malaysia
Sale and support of software
Mexico
Sale and support of software
Mexico
Sale and support of software
Mexico
Sale and support of software
Netherlands
Sale and support of software
Netherlands
Sale and support of software
Netherlands
Sale and support of software
Netherlands
Holding company
Netherlands
Holding company
Netherlands
Sale and support of software
Netherlands
Holding company
Netherlands
Holding company
Netherlands
Holding company
Netherlands
Holding company
Netherlands
Holding company
Netherlands
Holding company
Netherlands
Holding company
Netherlands
Holding company
Netherlands
Holding company
Netherlands
Holding company
Netherlands
Sale and support of software
Netherlands
Sale and support of software
Netherlands
Sale and support of software
Netherlands
Holding company
Netherlands
Sale and support of software
Netherlands
Sale and support of software
Netherlands
Sale and support of software
Philippines
Sale and support of software
Poland
Sale and support of software
Puerto Rico
Sale and support of software
Puerto Rico
Sale and support of software
Romania
Russian Federation Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Singapore

Singapore
Singapore
South Africa
Spain
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Switzerland
Switzerland
Turkey

Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software

Key to Registered  
Office address
77
79
78
81
82
84
85
85
85
87
88
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
88
88
92
93
95
96
97
98
101

101
101
105
111
111
113
116
117
118
122

13 Group entities continued

Company name

235 Entco Software Services Middle East FZ-LLC 

236 Autonomy Systems Limited 
237 Entco Foreign HoldCo Limited
238 Entco Situla Holding Limited
239 Entcorp Marigalante UK Limited
240 Entcorp UK Limited 
241 Longsand Limited 
242 ArcSight, LLC 
243 Entco Andromeda LLC 
244 Entco Brazil Holdings LLC 
245 Entco Delaware LLC 
246 Entco Government Software LLC 
247 Entco Holdings, Inc. 
248 Entco MS, Inc. 
249 Entco Technologies, Inc. 
250 Entco, LLC 
251 EntIT Software LLC 
252 MicroLink LLC 
253 Seattle SpinCo, Inc. 
254 Stratify, Inc. 
255 Vertica Systems, LLC 
256 Voltage Security International, Inc. 

COBOL IT:

257 Cobol-IT, SAS 

Country of  
incorporation
United Arab 
Emirates
UK
UK
UK
UK
UK
UK
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA

Principal activities

Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Holding company
Holding company
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Holding company
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Holding company
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Holding company
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software

France

Sale and support of software

New companies incorporated in the period ended 
31 October 2018

258 SUSE Software Solutions Australia Pty Limited
259 Serena Software Canada Limited
260 SUSE Software Solutions Canada ULC
261 SUSE International Holdings GmbH 
262 Attachmate Australasia Pty Limited 
263 SUSE Software Solutions Hong Kong Limited 
264 SUSE Software Solutions Netherlands BV 
265 Micro Focus Software (IP) Holdings Limited
266 SUSE Software Solutions International Services Limited 
267 SUSE Software Solutions Ireland Limited 
268 Micro Focus LLC 
269 SUSE Software Solutions South Africa (Pty) Limited 
270 Micro Focus Enterprise (Tunisia) LLC 
271 SUSE Software Solutions UK Limited 
272 Micro Focus Integration Holdings Limited 
273 Micro Focus Integration Limited 
274 Micro Focus Midco Holdings Limited
275 Marcel Holdings LLC

Australia
Canada
Canada
Germany
Australia
Hong Kong
Netherlands
UK
Ireland
Ireland
Saudi Arabia
South Africa
Tunisia
UK
UK
UK
UK
USA

Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Holding company
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Holding company
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Sale and support of software
Holding company
Sale and support of software
Holding company
Sale and support of software

Key to Registered  
Office address

125
2
2
2
2
2
2
10
10
8
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10

47

13
30
31
52
11
59
89
1
66
66
99
102
120
3
1
1
1
9

*   The above companies incorporated in the UK are exempt from audit and from preparing Annual Accounts.

These companies, with the exception of Novell Japan Ltd (note 34) are all 100% owned, operate principally in the country in which they are 
incorporated and are all included in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

171

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

The Lawn, 22-30 Old Bath Road, Newbury, Berkshire, United Kingdom, RG14 1QN 
Cain Road, Amen Corner, Bracknell, Berkshire RG12 1HN, United Kingdom 
Cornwall Court, 19 Cornwall Street, Birmingham, B3 2DT United Kingdom 
The Corporation Trust Company, Corporation Trust Center 1209 Orange St, Wilmington, New Castle, DE19801, USA 
505 Union Ave SE STE120, Olympia, WA 98501, USA 
The Company Corporation, 2711 Centerville Rd, STE 400, Wilmington, New Castle, DE19808, USA
CT Corporation, 155 Federal St. Suite 700, Boston, MA02110, USA 
1209 Orange St, Wilmington, New Castle, DE, 19801, USA
Corporation Service Company, 251 Little Falls Drive, Wilmington, New Castle, DE19808, USA 

13 Group entities continued
Registered office addresses:
(1) 
(2) 
(3) 
(4) 
(5) 
(6) 
(7) 
(8) 
(9) 
(10)  1140 Enterprise Way, Building G, Sunnyvale, CA, 94089 USA
(11) 
Level 8, 76 Berry Street, North Sydney, NSW 2060, Australia 
(12)  410 Concord Road, Rhodes, NSW 2138, Australia
(13)  Level 17, 100 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo, NSW 2000, Australia
(14)  Parkring 2, 1010, Vienna, Austria
(15)  Donau Centre, Hauptstrasse 4-10, Linz, 4040, Austria
(16)  EU Parliament, 4th Floor, 37 De Meeussquare, Brussels, 1000, Belgium
(17)  Pegasuslaan 5, 1831 Diegem, Belgium
(18)  4th Floor, Washington House, 16 Church Street, Hamilton, HM 11, Bermuda
(19)  Rua Joaquim Floriano, 466-12 Ander, Sao Paulo, CEP 04534-002, Brazil
(20)  Rua Arizonia, 1349 10th Floor, Sao Paulo, 04567-003, Brazil
(21)  Rua Dom Jose de Barros, 177, 3rd Floor, Suite 302, Villa Buarque, Sao Paulo, 01038-100, Brazil
(22)  Av Marcos Penteado De Ulhoa Rodrigues, No 939, Andar 8 Conj 818 Torre 1, 06.460-040, Tambore, Barueri, Brazil
(23)  Avenida das nações Unidas, nº 12.901, conjunto 2302, sala 72, Itaim Bibi, São Paulo, CEP 04578, Brazil
(24)  Appleby Corporate Services (BVI) Limited, Jayla Place, PO Box 3190, Road Town, Tortola, VG1110, British Virgin Islands
(25)  76A James Bourchier Blvd, Lozenetz, Sofia, 1407, Bulgaria
(26)  1715 Sofia, Mladost district, Business Park Sofia, Building 9, Sophia, Bulgaria
(27)  199 Bay Street, Suite 4000, Toronto, Ontario, M5L 1A9, Canada
(28)  Suite 2600, Three Bentall Centre, 595 Burrard Street, PO Box 49314, Vancouver BC V7X 1L3, Canada
(29)  4300 Bankers Hall West, 888 – 3rd Street S.W., Calgary, Alberta T2P 5C5, Canada
(30)  Suite 800, 1959 Upper Water Street, PO BOX 997, Halifax, B3J 2X2 NS, Canada
(31)  250 Howe Street, Suite 1400-C, Vancouver, BC V6C 3S7, Canada
(32)  200-204 Lambert Street, Whitehorse, YT, Y1A 3T2, Canada
(33)  161 Bay Street, Suite 2700 Toronto, ON M5J 2S1, Canada
(34)  Barker House 570 Queen Street, Suite 600, Fredericton, NB, E3B 6Z6, Canada
(35)  PO Box 309, Ugland House, South Church Street, George Town, South Cayman, KY1-1104, Cayman Islands
(36)  18 Forum Lane, Camana Bay, P.O. Box 258, Grand Cayman, 1104, Cayman Islands
(37)  3603-3606 Off Tower A, No.7, Dongsanhuan, Beijing, 100020, People’s Republic of China
(38)  Room 507, 508 Tower A, Raycom Info Tech Park No. 2, Science Institute, South Road, Beijing, 100080, China
(39)  Floor 2, Building 1, No. 799 Naxian Road, Shanghai, China
(40)  Calle 7 Avenida 7 y 9, Edificio 751, Barrio Amon, San Jose, Costa Rica
(41) 
(42)  Krizikova 148/34, Karlin, 186 00 Praha 8, Czech Republic
(43)  Za Brumlovkou 1559/5, Michle, Prague, 140 00, Czech Republic
(44)  Lyngsø Alle 3b, Hørsholm, 2970, Denmark
(45)  Lautruphoj 1-3, 2750 Ballerup, Denmark
(46)  19 Helmy Elmasry Street, Almaza, Cairo, Egypt
(47)  231 rue Saint Honore, Paris, 75001, France
(48)  Tour Atlantique, La Défense 9, 1 Place de la Pyramide, La Défense, Cedex, Paris 92911, France
(49)  1 avenue du Canada, Les Ulis, 91947, France
(50)  Amtsgericht, Nürnberg, Germany
(51) 
(52)  Maxfeldstrasse 5, 90409 Nürnberg, Germany
(53)  Von-Braun-Strasse 38a, 48683 Ahaus, Germany
(54)  Nöerdlicher Zubringer 9-11, 40470, Düsseldorf, Germany
(55)  Herrenberger Str. 140, 71034 Boeblingen, Germany
(56)  21st floor, Henley Building, 5 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong
(57)  Level 54, Hopewell Centre, 183 Queens Road East, Hong Kong
(58)  35/F Central Plaza, 18 Harbour Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong
(59)  U&I Corporation Centre, 47 Echelon, Sector 32, Gurgaon Harayana, India
(60)  Laurel, Block D, 65/2, Bagmane Tech Park, C.V. Raman Nagar, Byrasandra Post, Bangalore – 560093, India
(61)  Leela Galleria, 1st Floor, Andheri Kurla Road, Andheri (East), Mumbai – 400059, India
(62)  24 Salarpuria Arena, Hosur Main Road, Adugodi, Bangalore, 560-030, India

54 Digeni Akrita, Akrita 2nd Floor, Office 201-202, PC 1061, Nicosia, Cyprus

Fraunhoferstrasse 7, Ismaning, 85737, Germany

172

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

13 Group entities continued
(63)  66/1, 6th Floor, Olympia Building, Bagmane Tech Park, Byrasandra, CV Raman Nagar, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560093, India
(64)  2 Floor, Hibiscus Vrindavan, Tech Village, Marathahalli Outer Ring Rd, Bangalore, India, 560037, India
(65)  Building 2, 2nd Floor, Parkmore East Business Park, Galway, Ireland
(66)  70 Sir John Rogerson’s Quay, Dublin 2, Ireland
(67)  Corrig Court, Corrig Road, Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, Dublin 18, Ireland
(68)  Liffey Park Technology Campus, Barnhall Road, Leixlip, Co. Kildare, Ireland
(69)  Matam Advanced Tech Center, Building 5/1, Haifa, 31 905, Israel
(70)  Scientific Industries Center, Haifa, 33262, Israel
(71)  17 Hatidhar St, Raannana, 43665, Israel
(72)  5 Altalef St., Yahud, Israel
(73)  Viale Sarca 235, 20126 Milano, Italy
(74)  Via Vittor Pisani. 16, Milan, 20124, Italy
(75)  Via C. Donat Cattin 5, 20063 Cernusco sul Naviglio (MI), Italy
(76)  Corso Matteotti 1/A, Milan, 20121, Italy
(77)  Via S. Maria alla Porta n.9, Milan, 20123, Italy
(78)  Midtown Tower 19F, 9-7-1 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-6219, Japan
(79)  No. 8 Center Plaza Bldg, 5F, 1-10-16 Horidomecho Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0012, Japan
(80)  20, rue des Peupliers, 2328, Luxembourg
(81)  75, Parc d’Activités Capellen, Capellen, 8308, Luxembourg
(82)  5, Rue Guillaume Kroll, L – 1882, Luxembourg
(83)  Unit 501 Level 5 Uptown 1, 1 Jalan SS2, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
(84)  Level 21 – Suite 21.01, The Gardens South Tower, Mid Valley City, Lingkaran Syed Putra, 59200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
(85)  Periferico Sur 6751, Col. Toluquilla, Municipio Tlaquepaque, C.P. 45610, Jalisco, Mexico
(86)  Raoul Wallenbergplein 23, 2404 ND Alphen a/d Rijn, Netherlands
(87)  Startbaan 16, 1187 XR, Amstelveen, Netherlands
(88)  Coltbaan 31, Nieuwegein, 3439 NG, Netherlands
(89)  Herengracht 282, 1016BX Amsterdam, Netherlands
(90)  Simpson Grierson, Level 27, 88 Shortland Street, Auckland 1141, New Zealand
(91)  7th Floor, Dronning Eufemias Gate 16, 0191 Oslo, Norway
(92)  7th Floor Robinson Summit Center, 6783 Ayala Avenue, Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines
(93)  Centrum Biurowe Globis, Powstańców Śląskich 7A, 53-332 Wrocław, Poland
(94)  Centro Empresarial Torres de Lisboa, Torre G 1* Andar Sala 111, Rue Tomas da Fonseca, Lisbon, Portugal
(95)  110 Highway North Km 28, Bldg 1, Aguadilla, 00605, Puerto Rico
(96)  350 Chardon Avenue, Chardon Tower, Suite 801, San Juan, 00918, Puerto Rico
(97)  Bucharest, 3 George Constantinescu Street, BOC Office Building, 4th floor, entrance B, 2nd District, PC 020339, Romania
(98)  Leningradskoye shosse 16A, Building 3, Moscow, 125171, Russian Federation
(99)  Maazar Street, Futuro Tower, 3rd Floor, P.O. Box 69171, Riyadh 11547, Saudi Arabia
(100)  80 Robinson Road #02-00, 068898, Singapore
(101)  #12-04/06, 1 Harbourfront Place, Harbourfront Tower 1, Singapore, Singapore
(102)  22 Smith Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg, Gauteng, 2000, South Africa
(103)  Morning View Office Park 255 Rivonia Road, Morningside, South Africa
(104)  4th Floor Aloe Grove, Houghton Estate Office Park, 2 Osborn Road, Houghton, 2198, South Africa
(105)  PO Box 2238, Florida Hills, 1716, South Africa
(106)  Yeoidodong, SK Building, 15F, 31 Gukjegeumyung-ro 8-gil, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
(107)  Gangnam Finance Centre, Level 41, 152 Teheren-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul – 06236, South Korea
(108)  C/Jose Echegaray 8, Las Rozas, Madrid 28230, Spain
(109)  Paseo de la Castellana 42, Madrid, 28046, Spain
(110)  Ronda General Mitre 28-30, Barcelona 08017, Spain
(111)  Calle José Echegaray 8, Las Rozas de Madrid, 28232 Madrid, 28232, Spain
(112)  Kronborgsgränd 1, 164 46 Kista, Stockholm, Sweden
(113)  Gustav III:s Boulevard 36, SE-169 85, Stockholm, Sweden, SE, Sweden
(114)  Merkurstrasse 14, 8953 Dietikon, Switzerland
(115)  Lindenstrasse 26, Zurich, 8008, Switzerland
(116)  Jean-Baptiste Vandelle 3A, 1290 Versoix, Switzerland
(117)  1, Ueberlandstrasse, 8600 Duebendorf, Switzerland
(118)  Rembach 7, Altendorf, 8852, Switzerland
(119)  Room B 26/F #26 Tun-Hwa S Road Sec, Taipei ROC 106, Taiwan
(120)  ZI Chotrana, Technopôle El Ghazala, Lot N° 45, 2088, Ariana, Tunisia
(121)  Palladium Ofis Binasi, Halk Cad, No.8/A Kat 2, Atasehir 34748, Istanbul, Turkey
(122)  Barbaros Mah.Kardelen SK. No. 2/42-43 Atasehir, Istanbul, Turkey
(123)  13 Pimonenko str, Building 1, Office 1B/22, Kiev 04050, Ukraine
(124)  Dubai Internet City, DIC Building 2, 3rd Floor, Suite 315, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
(125)  Shatha Tower, 12th floor, Dubai Internet City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

173

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

14 Investments in associates
Open Invention Network LLC (“OIN”), a strategic partnership for the Group, licences its global defensive patent pool in exchange for a pledge of 
non-aggression, which encourages freedom of action in Linux and the sharing of new ideas and inventions. There are no significant restrictions on the 
ability of associated undertakings to transfer funds to the parent. There are no contingent liabilities to the Group’s interest in associates.

At 31 October 2018 the Group had a 12.5% interest ($9.6m) (30 April 2017: 12.5%, $11.5m) investment in OIN. There are eight (30 April 2017: 
eight) equal shareholders of OIN, all holding 12.5% (30 April 2017: 12.5%) interest, and each shareholder has one board member and one alternative 
board member. The Group exercises significant influence over OIN’s operation and therefore accounts for its investment in OIN as an associate.

The Investment in Associates is part of discontinued operations, which will be disposed of with the sale of the SUSE business segment and as such 
has been transferred to assets held for sale (note 19).

The Group uses the equity method of accounting for its interest in associates. The following table shows the aggregate movement in the Group’s 
investment in associates:

At 1 May
Gain on dilution of investment
Share of post-tax loss of associates

Reclassification to current assets classified as held for sale (note 19)

Details of the Group’s principal associates are provided below.

18 months
ended
31 October 
2018
$’000
11,457
–
(1,809)

(1,809)
(9,648)

–

12 months
ended
30 April 
2017
$’000
12,711
966
(2,220)

(1,254)
–

11,457

Company name
Open Invention Network LLC

Country of incorporation and  
principal place of business
USA

Proportion held
12.5%

Principal activities
Sale and support of software

The accounting year-end date of the associate consolidated within the Group’s financial statements is 31 December, and we obtain its results on a 
quarterly basis. The Group records an adjustment within the consolidated financial statements to align the reporting period of the associate and the 
Group. Following the change in period-end for the Group to 31 October from 30 April, we now report based on the 30 September 2018 quarter rather 
than the 31 March 2017 quarter end. The assets, liabilities, and equity of the Group’s associate as at 30 September 2018 (2017: 31 March 2017) and 
the revenue and loss of the Group’s associate for the period ended 30 September 2018 (2017: 31 March 2017) with the corresponding adjustment 
to align the reporting period was as follows:

Non-current assets
Current assets
Current liabilities
Non-current liabilities

Net assets

Equity

Revenue
Net loss

174

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

30 September 
2018
$’000
38,206
41,672
(672)
(1,028)

31 March  

2017
$’000
43,649
50,137
(604)
(527)

78,178

92,655

(78,178)

(92,655)

18 months
ended
30 September 
2018
$’000
–
14,477

12 months
ended
31 March 
2017
$’000
–
16,212

14 Investments in associates continued

Loss attributable to the Group for the period ended 30 September 2018 (31 March 2017 (14.3% ownership to 6 June 
2016, 12.5% thereafter))
Adjustment on estimated October 2018 result attributable to the Group (April 2017)

Loss attributable to the Group for the period ended 31 October 2018 (30 April 2017 (14.3% ownership to 6 June 2016, 
12.5% thereafter))

15 Other non-current assets

Employee benefit deposit
Long-term rent deposits
Long-term prepaid expenses
Other

18 months
ended
31 October 
2018
$’000

12 months
ended
30 April 
2017
$’000

1,810
(1)

2,095
125

1,809

2,220

31 October 
2018
$’000
31,132
4,140
2,893
625

38,790

30 April 
2017
$’000
–
2,844
–
249

3,093

Employee benefit deposits are held in Germany ($15.4m), Israel ($10.2m), Italy ($2.7m) and the Netherlands ($2.8m). Employers in Germany, Italy 
and Israel are required by law to maintain funds to satisfy certain employee benefit liabilities, including free-time off, compensation for involuntary 
termination of employment. These investment based deposits are managed by third parties and the carrying values are marked-to-market based on 
third party investment reports. In addition, a cash deposit was held in the Netherlands on behalf of certain employees to cover legacy employment 
subsistence benefits.

16 Inventories

Work in progress
Finished goods

31 October 
2018
$’000
–
204

204

30 April 
2017
$’000
13
51

64

The Group utilised $0.3m (12 months to 30 April 2017: $0.1m) of inventories included in cost of sales during the 18 months to 31 October 2018.

17 Trade and other receivables

Trade receivables
Less: provision for impairment of trade receivables

Trade receivables net
Prepayments
Other receivables
Accrued income

31 October 
2018
$’000
1,089,589
(41,860)

1,047,729
59,966
79,062
85,276

30 April 
2017
$’000
266,225
(2,599)

263,626
23,239
1,534
1,110

1,272,033

289,509

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

175

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

17 Trade and other receivables continued
Concentrations of credit risk with respect to trade receivables are limited due to the Group’s customer base being large and unrelated. The Group 
considers the credit quality of trade and other receivables on a customer-by-customer basis. The Group considers that the carrying value of the trade 
and other receivables that is disclosed below gives a fair presentation of the credit quality of the assets. This is considered to be the case as there is a 
low risk of default due to the high number of recurring customers and credit control policies. In determining the recoverability of a trade receivable, the 
Group considers the ageing of each debtor and any change in the circumstances of the individual receivable. Due to this, management believes there 
is no further credit risk provision required in excess of the normal provision for doubtful receivables.

At 31 October 2018 and 30 April 2017, the carrying amount approximates the fair value of the instrument due to the short-term nature of the 
instrument. The trade receivables of $1,089.6m at 31 October 2018 are net of the $21.5m provision for impairment of trade receivables in the 
opening balance for the HPE Software business (note 39).

At 31 October 2018, trade receivables of $249.3m (30 April 2017: $39.9m) were past due but not impaired. These relate to a large number of 
independent companies for whom there is no recent history of default. The amounts are regarded as recoverable. The average age of these 
receivables was 107 days in excess of due date (30 April 2017: 24 days).

As at 31 October 2018, trade receivables of $41.9m (30 April 2017: $2.6m) were either partially or fully impaired. The amount of the provision was 
$41.9m (30 April 2017: $2.6m). The ageing of these receivables is as follows:

Up to three months
Three to four months
Over four months

Movements in the Group provision for impairment of trade receivables were as follows:

At 1 May 
Provision for receivables impairment
Receivables written off as uncollectable
Receivables previously provided for but now collected
Exchange adjustments

At 31 October/30 April 

31 October 
2018
$’000
–
3,621
38,239

41,860

31 October 
2018
$’000
2,599
40,016
(686)
(53)
(16)

41,860

30 April 
2017
$’000
48
731
1,820

2,599

30 April 
2017
$’000 
4,486
2,023
(1,271)
(2,542)
(97)

2,599

The creation and release of provision for impaired receivables have been included in selling and distribution costs in the consolidated statement of 
comprehensive income. Amounts charged in the allowance account are generally written off when there is no expectation of recovering additional 
cash. The Group does not hold any collateral as security.

18 Cash and cash equivalents

Cash at bank and in hand
Short-term bank deposits

Reclassification to current assets classified as held for sale (note 19)

Cash and cash equivalents

31 October 
2018
$’000
387,115
236,687

623,802
(2,906)

30 April 
2017
$’000
146,832
4,151

150,983
–

620,896

150,983

176

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

18 Cash and cash equivalents continued
At 31 October 2018 and 30 April 2017, the carrying amount approximates to the fair value. The Group’s credit risk on cash and cash equivalents is 
limited as the counterparties are well established banks with high credit ratings. The credit quality of cash and cash equivalents is as follows:

S&P/Moody’s/Fitch rating:
AAA
AA-
A+
A
A-
BBB+
BBB
BBB-
BB+
BB
BB-
B+
CCC+
C-
Not Rated

31 October 
2018
$’000

30 April 
2017
$’000

231,517
80,975
260,404
20,063
3,767
4,546
994
558
2,042
32
15,187
–
212
321
278

33,057
69,814
25,221
6,355
5,820
471
903
165
357
283
8,221
24
193
–
99

620,896

150,983

Where the opinions of the rating agencies differ, the lowest applicable rating has been assigned to the counterparty.

19 Discontinued operation and assets classified as held for sale
Discontinued operation – SUSE business segment
On 2 July 2018, the Group announced the proposed sale of the SUSE business segment to Blitz 18-679 GmbH (subsequently renamed to Marcel 
Bidco GmbH), a newly incorporated directly wholly-owned subsidiary of EQTVIII SCSp which is advised by EQT Partners. The total cash consideration 
of $2.535bn is on a cash and debt free basis and subject to normalisation of working capital. 

On 21 August 2018, Shareholders voted to approve the proposed transaction whereby the Company has agreed to sell its SUSE business segment 
to Marcel Bidco GmbH, a newly incorporated, wholly-owned subsidiary of EQTVIII SCSp, for a total cash consideration of approximately $2.535bn, 
subject to customary closing adjustments. Following this vote, all applicable antitrust, competition, merger control and governmental clearances have 
been obtained. Completion of the transaction is now only conditional upon completing the carve-out of the SUSE business segment from the rest of 
the Micro Focus Group (and certain related matters) and it is currently anticipated that this will be satisfied such that the transaction will complete in 
the first calendar quarter of 2019. As set out in the circular to shareholders in advance of the vote, net sale proceeds after tax, transaction costs and 
customary closing adjustments are estimated to be $2.06bn and these funds will be used to make a required debt repayment in accordance with the 
Credit Agreement. It is intended that the balance will be returned to shareholders (“Return of Value”). A circular to shareholders in respect of the 
Return of Value will be despatched in due course.

Due to the proposed sale and subsequent shareholder approval, the SUSE business segment has been treated as discontinued in these financial 
statements. 

The SUSE Business, a pioneer in Open Source software, develops, markets and supports an enterprise grade Linux operating system, Open Source 
software-defined infrastructure and application delivery solutions that give enterprises greater control and flexibility over their IT systems.

Micro Focus believes the disposal consideration represents a highly attractive enterprise valuation for the SUSE business at approximately 7.9x 
revenue and 26.7x Adjusted Operating Profit of the SUSE Business for the 12 months ended 31 October 2017. Micro Focus believes EQT provides 
a strong long-term investor for the SUSE Business and allows Micro Focus to continue to focus upon its longstanding and consistent strategy of 
delivering value to customers and shareholders through effective management of infrastructure software assets in an increasingly consolidating sector. 

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

177

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

19 Discontinued operation and assets classified as held for sale continued
Discontinued operation – Financial performance

Revenue
Operating costs

Profit before taxation
Taxation

Profit for the period from discontinued operation

Discontinued operation – Cash flow
The cash flow statement shows amounts related to the discontinued operations:

Net cash inflows from operating activities
Net cash outflows from investing activities 
Net cash flows from financing activities

Net assets classified as held for sale

Reported in:
SUSE 
Atalla 

18 months
ended
31 October 
2018
$’000
538,160
(427,014)

111,146
(34,206)

12 months
ended
30 April 
2017
$’000
303,429
(238,632)

64,797
(31,077)

76,940

33,720

18 months
ended
31 October 
2018
$’000
136,058
(2,512)
–

12 months
ended
30 April
 2017
$’000
70,411
(7,430)
–

31 October 2018

Current 
assets
$’000
1,114,264
28,187

Current 
liabilities
$’000
(427,236)
(10,463)

Total
$’000
687,028
17,724

1,142,451

(437,699)

704,752

The net assets held for sale relating to the disposals of SUSE and Atalla are detailed in the tables below. These include non-current assets and 
non-current liabilities that are shown as current assets and liabilities in the Consolidated statement of financial position. 

178

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

19 Discontinued operation and assets classified as held for sale continued
A.  SUSE
The assets and liabilities relating to SUSE have been presented as held for sale following the shareholder approval on 21 August 2018. Costs to sell 
have been included in trade and other payables.

Non-current assets
Goodwill
Other intangible assets
Property, plant and equipment
Investment in associates
Deferred tax assets
Long-term pension assets
Other non-current assets

Current assets
Trade and other receivables
Cash and cash equivalents

Total assets held for sale 

Current liabilities
Trade and other payables
Provisions
Current tax liabilities
Deferred income

Non-current liabilities
Deferred income
Retirement benefit obligations
Long-term provisions
Other non-current liabilities

Total liabilities held for sale

Net assets classified as held for sale

Note

10
11
12
14

27

26

27
26

31 October 
2018
$’000

859,566
165,662
5,786
9,648
1,586
1,543
2,020

1,045,811

65,547
2,906

68,453

1,114,264

(37,833)
(664)
(1,156)
(218,349)

(258,002)

(160,791)
(5,530)
(2,376)
(537)

(169,234)

(427,236)

687,028

B. Atalla
On 18 May 2018 the Company entered into an agreement with Utimaco Inc. (“Utimaco”), under which Utimaco would acquire Atalla for $20m in cash. 
The deal was subject to regulatory approval by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (“CFUIS”). CFIUS placed the deal into 
investigation in September and final approval was received 10 October 2018. The deal closed on 5 November 2018 and Utimaco acquired the Atalla 
HSM product line, the Enterprise Security Manger (“ESKM”) product line, and related supporting assets, including applicable patents and other IP.

The assets and liabilities relating to the Atalla business included in the financial statements at 31 October 2018 amount to $17.7m.

Goodwill
Property, plant and equipment

Non-current assets 

Deferred income

Current liabilities 

Net assets classified as held for sale

Note
10
12

31 October 
2018
$’000
27,957
230

28,187

(10,463)

(10,463)

17,724

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

179

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

20 Trade and other payables – current

Trade payables
Tax and social security
Accruals

31 October 
2018
$’000
46,096
46,525
584,296

30 April 
2017
$’000
16,891
3,032
150,119

676,917

170,042

At 31 October 2018 and at 30 April 2017, the carrying amount approximates to the fair value. Accruals include vacation, payroll and employee taxes 
($147.0m), commission and employee bonuses ($162.7m), integration expenses ($44.5m) and consulting and audit fees ($30.3m).

21 Borrowings

Bank loan secured
Unamortised prepaid facility arrangement fees and original issue discounts

31 October 
2018
$’000
4,996,913
(151,033)

30 April 
2017
$’000
1,595,188
(33,652)

4,845,880

1,561,536

Reported within:
Current liabilities
Non-current liabilities

31 October 2018

30 April 2017

Unamortised 
prepaid 
facility 
arrangement 
fees and 
original issue 
Total
discounts
$’000
$’000
(46,645)
3,702
(104,388) 4,842,178

Bank loan 
secured
$’000
50,347
4,946,566

Unamortised 
prepaid 
facility 
arrangement 
fees and 
original issue 
Total
discounts
$’000
$’000
(12,604)
71,184
(21,048) 1,490,352

Bank loan
secured
$’000
83,788
1,511,400

4,996,913

(151,033) 4,845,880

1,595,188

(33,652)

1,561,536

The following facilities were drawn as at 31 October 2018:

• The $1,503.8m senior secured term loan B-2 issued by MA FinanceCo LLC is priced at LIBOR plus 2.25% (subject to a LIBOR floor of 0.00%);
• The $2,580.5m senior secured seven year term loan B issued by Seattle SpinCo. Inc. is priced at LIBOR plus 2.50% (subject to a LIBOR floor of 

0.00%) with an original issue discount of 0.25%;

• The $382.1m senior secured seven year term loan B-3 issued by MA FinanceCo LLC is priced at LIBOR plus 2.50% (subject to a LIBOR floor 

of 0.00%) with an original issue discount of 0.25%; and

• The €466.5m (equivalent to $530.5m) senior secured seven year term loan B issued by MA FinanceCo LLC is priced at EURIBOR plus 2.75% 

(subject to a EURIBOR floor of 0.00%) with an original issue discount of 0.25%.

The following facilities were undrawn as at 31 October 2018:

• A senior secured revolving credit facility of $500.0m (“Revolving Facility”), with an interest rate of 3.25% above LIBOR on amounts drawn 

(and 0.375% on amounts undrawn) thereunder (subject to a LIBOR floor of 0.00%).

The only financial covenant attaching to these facilities relates to the Revolving Facility, which is subject to an aggregate net leverage covenant only in 
circumstances where more than 35% of the Revolving Facility is outstanding at a fiscal quarter end. At 31 October 2018, $nil of the Revolving Facility 
was drawn together with $4,996.9m of Term Loans giving gross debt of $4,996.9m drawn. As a covenant test is only applicable when the Revolving 
Facility is drawn down by 35% or more, and $nil of Revolving Facility was drawn at 31 October 2018, no covenant test is applicable.

180

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

21 Borrowings continued
The movements on the Group loans in the period were as follows:

At 1 May 2016
Repayments
Draw downs
Transfer

At 30 April 2017
Acquisitions
Draw downs
Repayments
Foreign exchange

At 31 October 2018

Term 
Loan
B-2
$’000
–
–
–
1,515,188

1,515,188
–
–
(11,364)
–

1,503,824

Term
Loan
B
$’000
1,112,250
(9,562)
–
(1,102,688)

Term
 Loan
C
$’000
450,000
(37,500)
–
(412,500)

Term
 Loan
B-3
$’000
–
–
–
–

Seattle 
Spinco
 Term
 Loan 
B 
$’000
–
–
–
–

Euro
Term
Loan 
B
$’000
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–

–

–
–
–
–
–

–

–
–
385,000
(2,888)
–

–
2,600,000
–
(19,500)
–

–
–
523,815
(4,184)
10,846

Revolving 
Facility
$’000
225,000
(325,000)
180,000
–

80,000
–
135,000
(215,000)
–

Total
$’000
1,787,250
(372,062)
180,000
–

1,595,188
2,600,000
1,043,815
(252,936)
10,846

382,112

2,580,500

530,477

–

4,996,913

Borrowings are stated after deducting unamortised prepaid facility fees and original issue discounts. Facility arrangement costs and original issue 
discounts are amortised between three and six years. The fair value of borrowings equals their carrying amount.

Maturity of borrowings
The maturity profile of the anticipated future cash flows including interest in relation to the Group’s borrowings on an undiscounted basis, which 
therefore, differs from both the carrying value and fair value, is as follows:

As at 31 October 2018:

Within one year
In one to two years
In two to three years
In three to four years
In four to five years
In more than five years

At 31 October 2018

As at 30 April 2017:

Within one year
In one to two years
In two to three years
In three to four years
In four to five years

At 30 April 2017

Term 
Loan
 B-2
$’000
84,294
83,782
82,895
1,462,056
–
–

Seattle 
Spinco
 Term 
Loan 
B
$’000
151,161
150,235
148,629
147,363
146,097
2,526,819

Term
Loan 
B-3
$’000
22,383
22,246
22,009
21,821
21,634
374,164

Euro 
Term 
Loan 
B
$’000
20,080
19,971
19,782
19,632
19,483
512,738

Revolving 
Facility
$’000
–
–
–
–
–
–

Total
$’000
277,918
276,234
273,315
1,650,872
187,214
3,413,721

1,713,027

484,257

3,270,304

611,686

–

6,079,274

Term
Loan 
B-2
$’000
60,168
71,181
70,769
70,053
1,497,867

Revolving 
Facility
$’000
80,000
–
–
–
–

Total
$’000
140,168
71,181
70,769
70,053
1,497,867

1,770,038

80,000

1,850,038

Assets pledged as collateral
An all assets security has been granted in the US and England & Wales by certain members of the Micro Focus Group organised in such jurisdictions, 
including security over intellectual property rights and shareholdings of such members of the Micro Focus Group.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

181

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

22 Finance leases

Current
Non-current

Finance lease liabilities – minimum lease payments:

Within one year
Between one and five years

Future lease charges

31 October 
2018
$’000
13,560
14,923

28,483

31 October 
2018
$’000
15,136
15,984

31,120
(2,637)

28,483

30 April 
2017
$’000
–
–

–

30 April 
2017
$’000
–
–

–
–

–

The carrying value of computer equipment held under finance leases and hire purchase contracts as at 31 October 2018 was $25.9m 
(30 April 2017: $nil) (note 12).

Finance lease liabilities – present value of minimum lease payments:

Within one year
Between one and five years

31 October 
2018
$’000
13,560
14,923

28,483

30 April 
2017
$’000
–
–

–

The Group’s obligations under finance leases are secured by charges over the related leased assets. The weighted average fixed interest rate on the 
outstanding finance lease liabilities is 8.5% (30 April 2017: nil).

23 Current tax receivables, current tax liabilities and non-current tax liabilities
Current tax receivables

Corporation tax

31 October 
2018
$’000
24,504

30 April 
2017
$’000
1,637

The current tax receivable at 31 October 2018 is $24.5m (30 April 2017: $1.6m). The brought forward current tax receivable balance relates mainly 
to the US and has been partially refunded, with the balance offset against current period tax liabilities.

182

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

23 Current tax receivables, current tax liabilities and non-current liabilities continued
Current tax liabilities

Corporation tax

31 October 
2018
$’000
124,071

30 April 
2017
$’000
42,679

The current tax creditor at 31 October 2018 is $124.1m (30 April 2017: $42.7m). The creditor has increased due to the enlargement of the Group 
due to the acquisition of the HPE Software business and current year tax charges exceeding cash tax payments made. Within current tax liabilities 
is $67.7m (30 April 2017: $49.1m) in respect of the Group’s income tax reserve, the majority of which relate to the risk of challenge from local tax 
authorities to the transfer pricing arrangements of the Group.

Non-current tax liabilities

Corporation tax

31 October 
2018
$’000
131,048

30 April 
2017
$’000
–

The non-current tax creditor is $131.0m (30 April 2017: $nil). The non-current creditor reflects the US transition tax payable more than 12 months 
after the balance sheet date. 

24 Deferred income – current

Deferred income

31 October 
2018
$’000
1,134,730

30 April 
2017
$’000
640,650

Revenue billed but not recognised in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income under the Group’s accounting policy for revenue 
recognition is classified as deferred income in the consolidated statement of financial position to be recognised in future periods. Deferred income 
primarily relates to undelivered maintenance and subscription services on billed contracts.

25 Deferred income – non-current

Deferred income

31 October 
2018
$’000
178,064

30 April 
2017
$’000
223,786

Revenue billed but not recognised in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income under the Group’s accounting policy for revenue 
recognition is classified as deferred income in the consolidated statement of financial position to be recognised in future periods in excess of one 
year. Deferred income primarily relates to undelivered maintenance and subscription services on multi-year billed contracts.

26 Provisions

Onerous leases and dilapidations
Restructuring
Legal
Other

Total

Current
Non-current

Total

31 October 
2018
$’000
35,105
50,689
7,038
–

92,832

57,411
35,421

92,832

30 April 
2017
$’000
16,243
12,132
3,220
484

32,079

20,142
11,937

32,079

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

183

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

26 Provisions continued

At 1 May 2017
Continuing operations:
Acquisitions – HPE Software business (note 39)
Additional provision in the period
Released
Utilisation of provision
Exchange adjustments
Discontinued operation: 
Additional provision in the period
Reclassification of current assets classified as held for sale  
(note 19)

At 31 October 2018

Current
Non-current

Total

At 1 May 2016
Additional provision in the year
Acquisitions (note 39)
Utilisation of provision
Released
Exchange adjustments

At 30 April 2017

Current
Non-current

Total

Onerous 
leases and 
dilapidations
$’000
16,243

Restructuring
$’000
12,132

Legal
$’000
3,220

11,321
17,723
(3,890)
(5,590)
(702)

21,398
133,421
(3,678)
(110,062)
(2,522)

36,446
1,392
(4,733)
(29,263)
(24)

Other
$’000
484

–
–
(416)
(97)
29

Total
$’000
32,079

69,165
152,536
(12,717)
(145,012)
(3,219)

2,835

205

(2,835)

(205)

35,105

11,219
23,886

35,105

50,689

39,154
11,535

50,689

Onerous  
leases and 
dilapidations
$’000
18,176
4,584
–
(5,527)
(857)
(133)

16,243

4,406
11,837

16,243

Restructuring
$’000
3,523
48,498
1,201
(37,712)
(2,886)
(492)

12,132

12,132
–

12,132

–

–

7,038

7,038
–

7,038

Legal
$’000
1,920
98
2,844
(120)
(1,492)
(30)

3,220

3,220
–

3,220

–

–

–

–
–

–

Other
$’000
1,280
501
–
(117)
(1,180)
–

484

384
100

484

3,040

(3,040)

92,832

57,411
35,421

92,832

Total
$’000
24,899
53,681
4,045
(43,476)
(6,415)
(655)

32,079

20,142
11,937

32,079

Onerous leases and dilapidations provisions
The onerous lease and dilapidations provision relates to leased Group properties and this position is expected to be fully utilised within eight years. 
The provision was increased by $29.0m in the 18 months ended 31 October 2018, due to the acquisition of the HPE Software business ($11.3m) 
and relating to legal obligations to restore leased properties at the end of the lease period and a reassessment of sites across North America, 
United Kingdom, Israel and Australia ($17.7m). Provisions of $3.9m were released following the renegotiation/exit of leases of two North American 
properties.

Restructuring and integration provisions
Restructuring provisions relate to severance resulting from headcount reductions. The majority of provisions are expected to be fully utilised 
within 12 months. At 30 April 2017, this also included $4.6m of provisions for integration activities undertaken in readiness for the HPE Software 
business acquisition across all functions of the existing business. These were utilised in the period. Restructuring costs are reported within 
exceptional costs (note 4).

Legal provisions
Legal provisions include the directors’ best estimate of the likely outflow of economic benefits associated with on-going legal matters. Further 
information on legal matters can be found in note 37, contingent liabilities.

Other provisions
Releases of other provisions during the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 relate to future fees no longer considered likely to be incurred.

184

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

27 Pension commitments
a)  Defined contribution
The Group has established a number of pension schemes around the world covering many of its employees. The principal funds are those in the US, 
UK and Germany. These were funded schemes of the defined contribution type.

Pension costs for defined contributions schemes are as follows:

Continuing operations
Defined contribution schemes (note 35)

1  The comparatives for the 12 months to 30 April 2017 have been restated to reflect the divestiture of the SUSE business segment (note 19).

b) Defined benefit

Within non-current assets:
Long-term pension assets

Within non-current liabilities:
Retirement benefit obligations 

18 months 
ended
31 October 
2018
$’000
43,241

Restated1
12 months 
ended
30 April 
2017
$’000
10,875

31 October 
2018
$’000

30 April 
2017
$’000

16,678

22,031

(110,351)

(30,773)

The acquisition and subsequent integration of the software segment of Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company (“HPE Software”) on 1 September 
2017 added 27 defined benefit plans primarily in France, Germany and Switzerland.

As of 31 October 2018, there are 30 defined benefit plans in 10 countries around the world (30 April 2017: 4 in Germany, one of which provides 
benefits solely for SUSE employees). Some of the plans are final salary pension plans, which provide benefits to members in the form of a guaranteed 
level of pension payable for life in the case of retirement, disability and death. The level of benefits provided depends not only on the final salary but 
also on members’ length of service, social security ceiling and other factors. Final pension entitlements are calculated by local administrators in the 
applicable country. They also complete calculations for cases of death in service and disability. Other plans include termination or retirement indemnity 
plans or other types of statutory plans that provide a one-time benefit at termination. Where required by local or statutory requirements, some of the 
schemes are governed by an independent Board of Trustees that is responsible for the investment strategies with regard to the assets of the funds, 
however, other schemes are administered locally with the assistance of local pension experts. Not all of our plans are closed for new membership. 
The Group sponsors 13 plans that are open to new members, all of which are termination or retirement indemnity plans or statutory plans providing 
a one-time benefit at termination, retirement or death or disability. As a result of the acquisition of the HPE Software business, the Group participates 
in multi-employer defined benefit plans in Switzerland and Japan. These plans are accounted for as defined benefit plans.

Long-term pension assets
Long-term pension assets relate to the contractual arrangement under insurance policies held by the Group with guaranteed interest rates that do not 
meet the definition of a qualifying insurance policy as they have not been pledged to the plan or beneficiaries and are subject to the creditors of the 
Group. Such non-plan asset arrangements are recorded in the consolidated statement of financial position as long-term pension assets. These 
contractual arrangements are treated as available-for-sale financial assets since there is not an exact matching of the amount and timing of some or 
all of the benefits payable under the defined benefit plan. Movement in the fair value of long-term pension assets is included in other comprehensive 
income. All such non-plan assets are held in Germany.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

185

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

27 Pension commitments continued
The movement on the long-term pension asset is as follows:

As at 1 May 
Reclassification to assets held for sale
Interest on non-plan assets (note 6)
Benefits paid
Contributions 
Included within other comprehensive income:
– Change in fair value assessment
– Actuarial (loss)/gain on non-plan assets 
– Reclassification from defined contribution scheme to defined benefit scheme

Foreign currency exchange gain/(loss)

As at 31 October/30 April

Included within other comprehensive income:
Continuing operations
Discontinued operation

31 October 
2018
$’000
22,031
(1,543)
633
(185)
489

(6,065)
278
–

(5,787)
1,040

16,678

(5,258)
(529)

(5,787)

30 April 
2017
$’000
22,272
–
404
(110)
442

–
(2,134)
2,264

130
(1,107)

22,031

318
(188)

130

The non-plan assets are Level 3 assets under the fair value hierarchy. These assets have been valued by applying a discount rate to the future cash 
flows and taking into account the fixed interest rate, mortality rates and term of the insurance contract. There have been no transfers between levels 
for the period ended 31 October 2018 (30 April 2017: none).

Retirement benefit obligations
The following amounts have been included in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income for defined benefit pension arrangements:

Current service charge 
Past service credit

Charge to operating profit (note 35)
Current service charge – discontinued operations
Interest on pension scheme liabilities
Interest on pension scheme assets

Charge to finance costs (note 6)

Total continuing charge to profit for the period

18 months
ended
31 October 
2018
$’000
12,627
(5,489)

7,138
268
5,253
(2,430)

2,823

10,229

Restated1
 12 months
ended
30 April 
2017
$’000
504
–

504
121
660
(95)

565

1,190

1  The comparatives for the 12 months to 30 April 2017 have been restated to reflect the divestiture of the SUSE business segment (note 19).

Past service credits are the result of headcount reductions under the Group’s restructuring and integration activities relating to the acquisition of the 
HPE Software business (note 39). 

The contributions for the year ended 31 October 2019 are expected to be broadly in line with the 12 months to 31 October 2018. We fund our 
schemes so that we make at least the minimum contributions required by local government, funding and taxing authorities.

186

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

27 Pension commitments continued
The following amounts have been recognised as movements in the statement of other comprehensive income:

Actuarial return on assets excluding amounts included in interest income
Re-measurements – actuarial (gains) and losses:
– Demographic
– Financial
– Experience 

Reclassification from defined contribution scheme to defined benefit scheme
Exchange rate movement

Movement in the period/year

Continuing operations
Discontinued operation

The weighted average key assumptions used for the valuation of the schemes were:

Rate of increase in final pensionable salary
Rate of increase in pension payments 
Discount rate
Inflation 

18 months
ended
31 October 
2018
$’000
621

12 months
ended
30 April 
2017
$’000
9

332
(11,104)
1,858 

(8,914)

(2,121)
–

(10,414)

(8,949)
(1,465)

(10,414)

–
2,821
568

3,389

(2,996)
–

402

(217)
619

402

18 months
ended
31 October 
2018
2.61%
1.99%
1.92%
1.89%

12 months 
ended
30 April 
2017
2.00%
2.00%
1.95%
2.00%

The weighted average assumptions used in the valuation of the 1 September 2017 opening balances for the schemes acquired from the HPE Software 
business were: rate of increase in final pensionable salary of 2.32%, rate of increase in pension payments of 1.75%, discount rate of 1.95% and inflation 
of 1.61%.

The net present value of the defined benefit obligations of the schemes are sensitive to both the actuarial assumptions used and to market conditions. 
If the discount rate assumption was 0.5% lower, the obligation would be expected to increase by $26.9m as at 31 October 2018 (30 April 2017: 
$4.5m) and if it was 0.5% higher, they would be expected to decrease by $23.1m (30 April 2017: $3.9m). If the inflation assumption was 0.25% 
lower, the obligations would be expected to decrease by $6.0m as at 31 October 2018 (30 April 2017: $1.2m) and if it was 0.25% higher, they would 
be expected to increase by $6.4m (30 April 2017: $1.3m).

The mortality assumptions for the schemes are set based on actuarial advice in accordance with published statistics and experience in each territory.

These assumptions translate into a weighted average life expectancy in years for a pensioner retiring at age 65:

Retiring at age 65 at the end of the reporting period:
Male
Female
Retiring 15 years after the end of the reporting period:
Male
Female

31 October
2018

30 April
2017 

20
23

22
25

19
23

19
24

The net present value of the defined benefit obligations of the schemes are sensitive to the life expectancy assumption. If there was an increase 
of one year to this assumption across the schemes the obligation would be expected to increase by $7.9m (3.6%) as at 31 October 2018 
(30 April 2017: $1.1m (2.9%)).

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

187

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

27 Pension commitments continued
The net liability included in the consolidated statement of financial position arising from obligations in respect of defined benefit schemes is as follows:

Present value of obligations
Fair value of plan assets

The defined benefit obligation has moved as follows:

Defined benefit obligations
At 1 May 
HPE Software business acquisition (note 39)
Reclassification to assets held for sale
Current service cost
Past service credit
Benefits paid
Contributions by plan participants
Contribution by employer
Interest cost/(income) (note 6)
Included within other comprehensive income:
Re-measurements – actuarial (gains) and losses:
– Demographic
– Financial
– Experience
Actuarial return on assets excluding amounts included in 
interest income
Reclassification from defined contribution scheme to defined 
benefit scheme

Foreign currency exchange changes

At 31 October/30 April

31 October 2018

30 April 2017

Funded
$’000
213,305
(110,857)

Unfunded
$’000
7,903
–

Total
$’000
221,208
(110,857)

102,448

7,903

110,351

Funded
$’000
36,480
(5,707)

30,773

31 October 2018

Restated 30 April 2017

Defined 
benefit 
obligations
$’000
36,480
181,455
(9,125)
12,895
(5,489)
(9,603)
2,547
–
5,253

Scheme
assets
$’000
(5,707)
(110,010)
3,595
–
–
9,406
(2,313)
(4,012)
(2,430)

Retirement 
benefit 
obligations
$’000
30,773
71,445
(5,530)
12,895
(5,489)
(197)
234
(4,012)
2,823

Defined 
benefit 
obligations
$’000
37,524
–
–
625
–
(197)
–
–
660

(332)
11,104
(1,858)

–
–
–

(332)
11,104
(1,858)

–
(2,821)
(568)

–

(621)

(621)

–

5,472

14,386
(7,591)

(3,351)

(3,972)
4,586

2,121

10,414
(3,005)

2,996

(393)
(1,739)

Scheme 
assets
$’000
(5,855)
–
–
–
–
87
(114)
–
(95)

–
–
–

(9)

–

(9)
279

Retirement 
benefit 
obligations
$’000
31,669
–
–
625
–
(110)
(114)
–
565

–
(2,821)
(568)

(9)

2,996

(402)
(1,460)

221,208

(110,857)

110,351

36,480

(5,707)

30,773

Past service credits are the result of headcount reductions under the Group’s restructuring and integration activities relating to the acquisition of the 
HPE Software business (note 39).

188

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

27 Pension commitments continued
None of the plan assets are represented by financial instruments of the Group. None of the plan assets are occupied or used by the Group. The major 
categories of the plan assets are as follows:

Equity instruments
Debt instruments
Real estate
Cash and cash equivalents
Re-insurance contracts with guaranteed interest rates*
Other

Total

31 October 
2018

Unquoted
$’000
1,624
5,069
71
2,325
5,486
6,986

Total
$’000
51,514
42,488
2,058
2,325
5,486
6,986

21,561

110,857

Quoted
$’000
49,890
37,419
1,987
–
–
–

89,296

30 April 2017

Unquoted
$’000
–
–
–
–
5,707
–

5,707

*  The majority of the re-insurance contracts have guaranteed interest rates of 4.0%, with the remaining at 3.25% or 2.75%.

Through its defined benefit schemes the Group is exposed to a number of risks, the most significant of which are detailed below:

• Changes in bond yields – A decrease in corporate bond yields will increase IAS 19 plan liabilities, although this will be partially offset by an increase 

in the value of the pledged and unpledged re-insurance holdings.

• Inflation – Some of the Group pension obligations are linked to inflation, and higher inflation will lead to higher liabilities. There is a cap on the level 
of inflationary increase on one of the plans which protects the plan against extreme inflation. The majority of the plan assets are either unaffected 
by or loosely correlated with inflation, meaning an increase in inflation will also increase the deficit.

• Life expectancy – The majority of the plan obligations are to provide benefits over the life of the member, so increases in life expectancy will result 

in an increase in the plan liabilities as benefits would be paid over a longer period.

• In the case of the defined benefit plans, the Group ensures that the investment positions are managed within an asset liability matching (“ALM”) 

that has been developed by the Group to achieve long-term investments that are in line with the obligations under the pension schemes. In addition 
to the plan assets outlined above, the Group had re-insurance assets valued at $16.6m as at 31 October 2018 (30 April 2017: $22.1m). These 
assets are designated to fund the pension obligation and do not qualify as plan assets as they have not been pledged to the plan and are subject to 
the creditors of the Company. Within this framework the Group’s objective is to match assets to the pension obligations by investing in re-insurances 
that match the benefit payments as they fall due and in the appropriate currency.

Sensitivities
The table below provides information on the sensitivity of the defined benefit obligation to changes to the most significant actuarial assumptions. The 
table shows the impact of changes to each assumption in isolation, although, in practice, changes to assumptions may occur at the same time and can 
either offset or compound the overall impact on the defined benefit obligation.

These sensitivities have been calculated using the same methodology as used for the main calculations. The weighted average duration of the defined 
benefit obligation is 22 years.

Discount rate for scheme liabilities
Price inflation
Salary growth rate

Change in 
assumption
0.50%
0.25%
0.50%

Change in 
defined benefit 
obligation
(10.5%)
2.9%
1.9%

An increase of one year in the assumed life expectancy for both males and females would increase the defined benefit obligation by 3.6% as at 
31 October 2018 (30 April 2017: 2.9%). The methods and types of assumptions used in preparing the sensitivity analysis did not change compared 
to previous years.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

189

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

28 Other non-current liabilities

Accruals

31 October 
2018
$’000
58,011

58,011

30 April 
2017
$’000
4,191

4,191

Accruals includes employee benefit liability ($31.0m) that relates to legal severance payment obligations to employees leaving the Group in certain 
countries, a deferred gain on real estate ($14.0m) relating to free-rent incentives or tenant improvement allowances given by landlords and an IT 
contractual liability ($11.3m).

29 Financial instruments
The table below sets out the values of financial assets and liabilities.

Financial assets
Non-current
Derivative financial instruments – Interest rate swaps (note 29)
Current
Cash and cash equivalents (note 18)
Trade and other receivables (note 17)

Financial liabilities – financial liabilities at 
amortised cost
Non-current
Borrowings (note 21)
Finance leases (note 22)
Provisions (note 26)
Current
Borrowings (note 21)
Finance leases (note 22)
Trade and other payables (note 20)
Provisions (note 26)

Financial
31 October 
2018
$’000

Non-financial
31 October
2018
$’000

Total
 31 October
2018
$’000

Financial
30 April 
2017
$’000

Non-financial
30 April 
2017
$’000

Total
30 April
2017
$’000

–

86,381

86,381

–

–

–

620,896
1,212,067

–
59,966

620,896
1,272,033

150,983
266,270

–
23,239

150,983
289,509

1,832,963

146,347

1,979,310

417,253

23,239

440,492

Financial
31 October 
2018
$’000

Non-financial
31 October
2018
$’000

Total
31 October
2018
$’000

Financial
30 April 
2017
$’000

Non-financial
30 April 
2017
$’000

Total
30 April 
2017
$’000

4,946,566
14,923
35,421

50,347
13,560
676,917
57,411

5,795,145

–
–
–

–
–
–
–

–

4,946,566
14,923
35,421

1,511,400
–
11,837

–
–
100

1,511,400
–
11,937

50,347
13,560
676,917
57,411

83,788
–
16,891
4,406

–
–
153,151
15,736

83,788
–
170,042
20,142

5,795,145

1,628,322

168,987

1,797,309

Fair value measurement
For trade and other receivables, cash and cash equivalents, trade and other payables, obligations under finance leases and provisions, fair values 
approximate to book values due to the short maturity periods of these financial instruments. For trade and other receivables, allowances are made 
within book value for credit risk.

Derivative financial instruments measured at fair value are classified as level 2 in the fair value measurement hierarchy as they have been determined 
using significant inputs based on observable market data. The fair values of interest rate derivatives are derived from forward interest rates based on 
yield curves observable at the balance sheet date together with the contractual interest rates.

There were no transfers of assets or liabilities between levels of the fair value hierarchy during the period.

190

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

29 Financial instruments continued
Credit risk
The carrying amount of financial assets represents the maximum credit exposure. The maximum exposure to credit risk at 31 October 2018 was:

Trade receivables (note 17)
Cash and cash equivalents (note 18)

Total

31 October 
2018
$’000
1,212,067
620,896

30 April 
2017
$’000
266,270
150,983

1,832,963

417,253

Market risk
The Group’s treasury function aims to reduce exposures to interest rate, foreign exchange and other financial risks, to ensure liquidity is available as 
and when required, and to invest cash assets safely and profitably. The Group does not engage in speculative trading in financial instruments. The 
treasury function’s policies and procedures are reviewed and monitored by the audit committee and are subject to internal audit review.

Derivative financial instruments
Derivatives are only used for economic hedging purposes and not as speculative investments. Four interest rate swaps are in place with a total notional 
value of $2.25bn to hedge against the impact of expected rises in interest rates until 30 September 2022. The swaps are designated against the 
$2,580.5m loan issued by Seattle SpinCo. Inc. and the notional value covers 50.4% of the overall dollar loan principal outstanding for the Group.

The swap contracts require settlement of net interest receivable or payable on a monthly basis. The fixed interest rate for each swap is 1.949% and 
the Group receives a variable rate in line with LIBOR. The Seattle loan is priced at LIBOR (with a floor) plus a current margin of 2.50% with the swaps 
aimed at addressing the risk of a rising LIBOR element. As such, the total interest cost of the hedged element of the Seattle loan is 4.44%. For the 
period to 31 October 2018, net expense for the swaps amounted to $3.4m.

Hedge effectiveness is determined at the inception of the hedge relationship, and through periodic effectiveness assessments (adjusted for credit 
risk) to ensure that an economic relationship exists between the hedged item and the hedging instrument. The testing determined that the hedge was 
highly effective throughout the financial reporting period for which the hedge was designated. 

The impact of changes in the fair value of interest rate swaps in the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 is shown in the Consolidated statement 
of comprehensive income. Note 33 shows the derivative financial instruments relating to hedging transactions entered into in the period ended 
31 October 2018 (other reserves).

Carrying amount
Notional amount (4 x $562.5m)
Maturity date
Change in fair value of outstanding hedging instruments
Change in value of hedging instruments adjusted for credit risk

31 October 
2018
$’000
86,381
2,250,000
30 September 2022
86,381
84,666

30 April 
2017
$’000
–
–
–
–
–

Foreign exchange risk
The Group’s currency exposures comprise those that give rise to net currency gains and losses to be recognised in the consolidated statement of 
comprehensive income as well as gains and losses on consolidation, which go to reserves. Such exposures reflect the monetary assets and liabilities 
of the Group that are not denominated in the operating or functional currency of the operating unit involved and the Group’s investment in net assets 
in currencies other than US dollar.

Note 33 shows the impact on the consolidated statement of comprehensive income of foreign exchange gains in the 18 months ended 31 October 
2018 (30 April 2017: gain).

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

191

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

29 Financial instruments continued
Sensitivity analysis
The Group’s principal exposures in relation to market risks are the changes in the exchange rates between the US Dollar and transactions made in 
other currencies as well as changes in US Dollar LIBOR interest rates. Foreign exchange exposures for all re-measuring balances are tracked and 
reported to management.

The key drivers are cash, borrowings and inter-company positions with trade receivables and trade payables having less relative aggregate exposure. 
As at 31 October 2018, the key aggregate exposures involved the Euro, British Sterling, Israeli Shekel and Canadian Dollar. The table below illustrates 
the sensitivity analysis of the Group exposures to movements in currency and interest rates.

Key aggregate currency exposures
Euro 
GBP
ILS
CAN$

Borrowings
Interest rate LIBOR +1%

Group 
exposure 
$’000
377,324 
25,436
52,147
60,468

+/-5%
$’000
18,866
1,271
2,607
3,023

+/-10%
$’000
37,732
2,543
5,215
6,046

+/-1% 
interest
$’000

n/a

n/a

n/a

49,969

Capital risk management
The Group’s objective when managing its capital structures is to minimise the cost of capital while maintaining adequate capital to protect against 
volatility in earnings and net asset values. The strategy is designed to maximise shareholder return over the long-term.

The only financial covenant attaching to these facilities relates to the Revolving Facility, which is subject to an aggregate net leverage covenant only 
in circumstances where more than 35% of the Revolving Facility is outstanding at a fiscal quarter end. The facility was less than 35% drawn at 
31 October 2018 and therefore no covenant test is applicable.

The capital structure of the Group at the consolidated statement of financial position date is as follows:

Bank and other borrowings (note 21)
Finance lease obligations (note 22)
Less cash and cash equivalents (note 18)

Total net debt
Total equity

Debt/equity %

31 October 
2018
$’000
4,845,880
28,483
(620,896)

30 April 
2017
$’000
1,561,536
–
(150,983)

4,253,467
7,791,980

1,410,553
1,613,490

54.59%

87.42%

192

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

30 Deferred tax

Net deferred tax liability
At 1 May

(Debited)/credited to consolidated statement of comprehensive income:

 • Continuing operations
 • Discontinued operations

Credited directly to equity in relation to share options

Debited to other comprehensive income in relation to pensions:

 • Continuing operations
 • Discontinued operations

Acquisition of subsidiaries

 Acquisition of subsidiaries – Serena Software 
 Acquisition of subsidiaries – GWAVA 
 Acquisition of subsidiaries – HPE Software business
 Acquisition of subsidiaries – COBOL-IT 

Foreign exchange adjustment
Reclassification to current assets held for sale
Effect of change in tax rates – charged to consolidated statement of comprehensive income

At 31 October/30 April

31 October 
2018 
$’000

Note

30 April 
2017 
$’000

(118,478)

(65,281)

7

(17,171)

(27,634)
10,463

26,871

26,871
–

(23,724)

22,996

4,281

3,754
527

(325)

(62)
(263)

39 (1,957,343)

(97,615)

–
–
(1,953,453)
(3,890)

(96,203)
(1,412)
–
–

19

11,667
(1,586)
931,865

(6,415)
–
1,291

(1,170,489)

(118,478)

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

193

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

30 Deferred tax continued
Deferred tax assets and liabilities presented below and in the consolidated statement of financial position have been revised to present such assets 
and liabilities net where there is a legally enforceable right to offset and the intention to settle on a net basis.

Deferred tax assets
At 1 May 2016
Acquisition of subsidiaries (note 39)
(Charged)/credited to consolidated 
statement of comprehensive income
Credited directly to equity
Debited to other comprehensive 
income
Foreign exchange adjustment
Effect of change in tax rates – 
credited to consolidated statement 
of comprehensive income

Tax 
losses
$’000

50,949
10,619

(4,894)
–

–
–

–

Share 
based 
payments
$’000

22,767
–

4,405
22,996

–
(6,415)

(78)

Deferred 
revenue
$’000 

37,962
2,471

4,057
–

–
–

–

Subtotal

56,674

43,675

44,490

Prepaid 
royalty
$’000

Tax 
credits
$’000 

Intangible 
fixed 
assets 
$’000

Other 
temporary 
differences
$’000

Total
$’000

–
–

–

–
–

–

–

–

53,660
152

(20,024)
–

6,496
–

(609)
–

26,923
2,105

198,757
15,347

(4,964)
–

(22,029)
22,996

–
–

–

–
–

–

(325)
–

(325)
(6,415)

–

(78)

33,788

5,887

23,739

208,253

33,788

5,887

23,739

208,253

(208,253)

–

Jurisdictional offsetting (revised)

At 30 April 20171 (revised)

At 1 May 2017
Acquisition of subsidiaries – 
HPE Software business (note 39)
(Charged)/credited to consolidated 
statement of comprehensive income 
– continuing operations
Credited directly to equity
Debited to other comprehensive 
income
Foreign exchange adjustment
Reclassification to current assets 
held for sale
Effect of change in tax rates – 
credited to consolidated statement 
of comprehensive income

Subtotal
Jurisdictional offsetting

At 31 October 2018

56,674

43,675

44,490

4,524

–

(36,468)

332,036

39,030

–

43,601

382,723

(13,510)
–

110
(23,724)

45,158
–

(201,355)
–

(46,114)
–

(825)
–

14,126
–

(202,410)
(23,724)

–
–

–

–
(320)

–

–
–

–

–
–

–

–
–

–

–
–

–

4,281
–

4,281
(320)

(1,586)

(1,586)

(21,129)

(2,319)

66,673

(88,770)

2,957

(2,025)

(13,336)

(57,949)

26,559

17,422

119,853

41,911

29,661

3,037

70,825

309,268
(309,268)

–

1  The comparatives for 30 April 2017 have been revised as described in the Basis of Preparation of the Significant Accounting policies section.

A deferred tax charge to equity of $23.7m (30 April 2017: $23.0m credit) arises during the period in relation to share-based payments. The change 
as compared to the prior period is primarily due to the decrease in the Group’s share price during the 18 months ended 31 October 2018. Deferred 
tax on prepaid royalties relates to intra-Group royalties, which were paid to US Group companies which have been taxed upon receipt but for which 
the Group has yet to recognise the income.

The deferred tax asset relating to other temporary differences of $70.8m as at 31 October 2018 (30 April 2017: $23.7m) has increased during the 
current period primarily due to balances acquired from the HPE Software business and includes temporary differences arising on fixed assets, 
short-term timing differences and defined benefit pension schemes. Deferred tax assets are recognised in respect of tax losses and other attributes 
carried forward to the extent that the realisation of the related tax benefit is probable.

194

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

30 Deferred tax continued
The Group did not recognise deferred tax assets in relation to the following gross temporary differences where the realisation of the related tax 
benefit is not probable under relevant local legislation and the expiration of which is determined by the tax law of each jurisdiction:

At 31 October 2018
Type of temporary difference:
Losses
Credits
Other

Total

At 30 April 2017
Type of temporary difference:
Losses
Credits
Other

Total

Expiration: 
2019
$’000

35,233
2,174
1,859

39,266

Expiration:
2018
$’000

2020
$’000

2021
$’000

2022
$’000

2023
$’000

Thereafter
$’000

No expiry
$’000

Total
$’000

66,078
4,420
1

99,168
3,959
–

70,499

103,127

37,529
2,360
–

39,889

33,574
1,267
–

2,117,700
5,210
–

95,578
196,350
47,718

2,484,860
215,740
49,578

34,841

2,122,910

339,646

2,750,178

2019
$’000

2020
$’000

2021
$’000

2022
$’000

Thereafter
$’000

No expiry
$’000

Total
$’000

1,107
2,131
–

3,238

635
2,147
–

2,782

972
1,909
–

2,881

–
2,138
–

2,138

Deferred tax liabilities
At 1 May 2016
Acquisition of subsidiaries
Charged/(credited) to consolidated statement of comprehensive income
Effect of change in tax rates – charged to consolidated statement of comprehensive income

Subtotal

Jurisdictional offsetting (revised)

At 30 April 20171 (revised)

Acquisition of subsidiaries – HPE Software business
Acquisition of subsidiaries – COBOL-IT 
Charged/(credited) to consolidated statement of comprehensive income – continuing operations
Charged/(credited) to consolidated statement of comprehensive income – discontinued operations
Foreign exchange adjustment

–
1,334
–

1,334

Note

39

–
5,583
–

5,583

19,773
8,338
23,859

51,970

Intangible 
fixed
 assets
$’000

Other
 temporary 
differences
$’000

22,487
23,580
23,859

69,926

Total
$’000

(255,158)
(110,334)
52,438
1,369

(8,880)
(2,628)
(3,538)
–

(264,038)
(112,962)
48,900
1,369

(311,685)

(15,046)

(326,731)

208,253

(118,478)

(311,685)
39 (2,324,060)
(3,890)
39
186,787
10,463
11,987

(15,046)
(326,731)
(12,116) (2,336,176)
(3,890)
174,776
10,463
11,987

–
(12,011)
–
–

Effect of change in tax rates – charged to consolidated statement of comprehensive income

981,955

7,859

989,814

At 31 October 2018

(1,448,443)

(31,314) (1,479,757)

309,268

(1,170,489)

1  The comparatives for 30 April 2017 have been revised as described in the Basis of Preparation of the Significant Accounting policies section.

During the period, the Group recognised a deferred tax liability of $2.3bn upon the acquisition of the HPE Software business. Along with historical 
balances, this was revalued due to US tax reforms to reflect the lower US Federal tax rate. No deferred tax liability was recognised in respect of 
unremitted earnings of overseas subsidiaries as the Group is in a position to control the timing of the reversal of the temporary differences and no 
material tax liability is expected to arise upon repatriation of such earnings.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

195

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

31 Share capital
Ordinary shares at 10 pence each as at 31 October 2018 (30 April 2017: 10 pence each)

Issued and fully paid
At 1 May 
Shares issued to satisfy option awards
Share reorganisation
Shares issued relating to acquisition of the HPE Software business (note 39)

At 31 October/30 April

“B” shares at 168 pence each

Issued and fully paid
At 1 May 
Issue of B shares
Redemption of B shares

At 31 October/30 April

31 October 2018

 30 April 2017

Shares

$’000

Shares

$’000

229,674,479
1,894,673
(16,935,536)
222,166,897

39,700
251
(2,926)
28,773

228,706,210
968,269
–
–

436,800,513

65,798

229,674,479

39,573
127
–
–

39,700

31 October 2018

 30 April 2017

Shares

$’000

Shares

$’000

–
229,799,802
(229,799,802)

–
500,000
(500,000)

–

–

–
–
–

–

–
–
–

–

Share issuances during the 18 months to 31 October 2018
In the 18 months to 31 October 2018, 1,894,673 ordinary shares of 10 pence each (12 months to 30 April 2017: 968,269 ordinary shares of 
10 pence) were issued by the Company to settle exercised share options. The gross consideration received in the 18 months to 31 October 2018 was 
$5.8m (12 months to 30 April 2017: $2.0m). 222,166,897 ordinary shares of 10 pence each were issued by the Company as consideration for the 
acquisition of the HPE Software business (note 39).

In relation to the return of value to shareholders (note 33), on 31 August 2017 229,799,802 “B” shares were issued at 168 pence each, resulting 
in a total of $500.0m being credited to the “B” share liability account. Subsequently and on the same date, 229,799,802 “B” shares were redeemed 
at 168 pence each and an amount of $500.0m was debited from the “B share liability account.

At 31 October 2018 9,858,205 treasury shares were held (30 April 2017: nil) such that the number of ordinary shares with voting rights was 
426,942,308 (30 April 2017: 229,674,479) and the number of listed shares at 31 October 2018 was 436,800,513 (30 April 2017: 229,674,479).

Potential issues of shares
Certain employees hold options to subscribe for shares in the Company at prices ranging from nil pence to 1,875.58 pence under the following share 
option schemes approved by shareholders in 2005 and 2006: the Long-Term Incentive Plan 2005, the Additional Share Grants, the Sharesave Plan 
2006 and the Employee Stock Purchase Plan 2006.

The number of shares subject to options at 31 October 2018 was 18,156,060 (30 April 2017: 8,607,889).

Share buy-back
On 29 August 2018, the company announced the start of a share buy-back programme for an initial tranche of up to $200m which was extended on 
5 November 2018 to the total value of $400m (including the initial tranche). Up to and including 13 February 2019 the company had spent $400m 
and purchased 22,455,121 shares at an average price of £13.82 per share. We are now extending this buy-back programme into a third tranche of 
up to $110m to be executed in the period from 14 February 2019, up until the day before the AGM which takes place on 29 March 2019 when the 
current buy-back authority approved by shareholders at the 2017 AGM to make market purchases of up to 65,211,171 ordinary shares will expire. 

In addition to purchasing ordinary shares on the London Stock Exchange Citi acquired American Depository Receipts representing ordinary shares 
(“ADRs”) listed on the New York Stock Exchange which it cancelled for the underlying shares and then sold such shares to the Company. 

As at 31 October 2018, 9,858,205 ordinary shares have been bought back at a total cost of $171.7m, including expenses of $0.5m. 8,567,659 
ordinary shares were bought on the London Stock Exchange and 1,290,546 ADRs were purchased on the New York Stock Exchange.

196

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

32 Share premium account

At 1 May
Issue and redemption of B shares (note 31)
Movement in relation to share options exercised (note 35)

At 31 October/30 April 

33 Other reserves

As at 1 May 2016
Reallocation of merger reserve1

As at 30 April 2017

As at 1 May 2017
Return of Value – share consolidation2
Return of Value – issue and redemption of B shares2
Hedge accounting (note 29)3 
Current tax movement on hedging3
Acquisition of the HPE Software business 4
Reallocation of merger reserve1

As at 31 October 2018

31 October 
2018
$’000
192,145
(156,683)
5,499

30 April  
2017
$’000
190,293
–
1,852

40,961

192,145

Capital 
redemption 
reserve 
$’000
163,363
–

163,363

163,363
2,926
500,000
–
–
–
–

Merger
reserve 
$’000
988,104
(650,000)

338,104

338,104
–
(343,317)
–
–
6,485,397
(2,755,800)

Hedging 
reserve
$’000
–
–

Total
$’000
1,151,467
(650,000)

–

501,467

–
–
–
86,381
(16,413)
–
–

501,467
2,926
156,683
86,381
(16,413)
6,485,397
(2,755,800)

666,289

3,724,384

69,968

4,460,641

1 

2 

3 
4 

 The Company has transferred an amount from the merger reserve to retained earnings pursuant to UK company law. The Parent Company previously transferred the investment in The 
Attachmate Group (“TAG”) to a wholly owned subsidiary for an intercompany receivable in the amount of $1,373m. During the period, the Parent Company also transferred the investment 
in the HPE Software business to a wholly owned subsidiary in exchange for an intercompany receivable. An amount of $2,755.8m has been transferred from the merger reserve to 
retained earnings (30 April 2017: $650.0m). Of the $2,755.8m merger reserve transfer in the period, $408.2m of the intercompany loan has been settled in the period and the remaining 
$2,347.6m is expected to be settled in qualifying consideration during the year to 31 October 2019 (year to 30 April 2017: $650.0m). It therefore meets the definition of qualifying 
consideration and is available for dividend distribution to the Parent Company’s shareholders.
 On 31 August 2017 a Return of Value was made to shareholders amounting to $500.0m. The Return of Value was effected through an issue and redemption of B shares, and resulted 
in a $500.0m increase in the capital redemption reserve, a $343.3m reduction in the merger reserve and a $156.7m reduction in share premium. The return of value was accompanied 
by a 0.9263 share consolidation and the share consolidation resulted in the issue of D deferred shares which were subsequently bought back for 1 penny, resulting in a transfer of $2.9m 
to the capital redemption reserve.
 $70.0m was recognised in the hedging reserve in relation to hedging transactions entered into in the 18 months ended 31 October 2018.
 On 1 September 2017 the acquisition of the HPE Software business was completed (note 39). As a result of this a merger reserve was created of $6,485.4m. The acquisition was 
structured by way of equity consideration; this transaction fell within the provisions of section 612 of the Companies Act 2006 (merger relief) such that no share premium was recorded 
in respect of the shares issued. The Parent Company chose to record its investment in the HPE Software business at fair value and therefore recorded a merger reserve equal to the 
value of the share premium which would have been recorded had section 612 of the Companies Act 2006 not been applicable (i.e. equal to the difference between the fair value of the 
HPE Software business and the aggregate nominal value of the shares issued).

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

197

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

34 Non-controlling interests
The Group has minority shareholders in one subsidiary, Novell Japan Ltd. On 20 November 2017, a payment of 170,350 JPY ($1,547) was made 
to a minority shareholder to acquire 170,350 ordinary one JPY shares held. On 22 December 2017, a payment of 170,350 JPY ($1,505) was made 
to another minority shareholder to acquire 170,350 ordinary one JPY shares held. These transactions increased the Group’s shareholding from 
74.7% to 81.05%.

At 1 May 
Share of profit/(loss) after tax

At 31 October/30 April 

Non-controlling interests relate to the companies detailed below:

Company name
Novell Japan Ltd

35 Employees and directors

Country of incorporation and  
principal place of business
Japan

Staff costs
Wages and salaries
Redundancy and termination costs (non-exceptional)
Social security costs
Other pension costs

Cost of employee share schemes

Total

Pension costs comprise:
Defined benefit schemes (note 27)
Defined contribution schemes (note 27)

Total

1  The comparatives for the 12 months to 30 April 2017 have been restated to reflect the divestiture of the SUSE business segment (note 19).

31 October 
2018
$’000
954
85

1,039

30 April  
2017
$’000
1,057
(103)

954

31 October 
2018
Proportion 
held
81.05%

30 April  
2017

Proportion  

held
74.7%

18 months
ended
31 October 
2018
$’000

1,819,251 
2,102
159,009
50,379

2,030,741
64,284

Restated1 

12 months
 ended
30 April  
2017
$’000

382,482
2,115
53,215
11,379

449,191
31,463

2,095,025

480,654

18 months
ended
31 October 
2018
$’000

7,138
43,241

50,379

Restated1 

12 months
 ended
30 April  
2017
$’000

504
10,875

11,379

198

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

35 Employees and directors continued

Average monthly number of people (including executive directors) employed by the Group:
Continuing operations
Sales and distribution
Research and development
General and administration

Discontinued operations
Sales and distribution
Research and development
General and administration

Total

Sales and distribution
Research and development
General and administration

Total

Key management compensation
Short-term employee benefits
Share-based payments

Total

18 months
ended
 31 October 
2018
Number

12 months
ended
30 April 
2017
Number

5,860
4,323
1,378

11,561

515
629
8

1,152

6,375
4,952
1,386

12,713

1,818
1,400
642

3,860

323
476
4

803

2,141
1,876
646

4,663

18 months
ended
31 October 
2018
$’000

12 months
ended
30 April 
2017
$’000

25,893
44,497

70,390

8,051
9,391

17,442

The key management figures above include the executive management team and directors. There are no post-employment benefits. Directors’ 
remuneration is shown below.

Directors
Aggregate emoluments
Aggregate gains made on the exercise of share options 
Company contributions to money purchase pension scheme

Total

18 months
ended
31 October 
2018
$’000

12 months
ended
30 April 
2017
$’000

14,583
77,719
749

93,051

5,227
8,166
463

13,856

For further information on the directors of the Company please refer to the Directors’ Remuneration report on pages 90 to 109.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

199

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

35 Employees and directors continued
Share-based payments
The amount charged to the consolidated statement of comprehensive income in respect of share-based payments was $72.2m for the 18 months 
ended 31 October 2018 (12 months ended 30 April 2017: $34.5m). The consolidated statement of comprehensive income has been presented split 
between continuing and discontinued operations. The table below provides information of the share-based payments on a continuing operations basis. 
The tables below for each type of share option are presented on a combined continuing and discontinued operations basis.

Continuing operations
Share-based compensation – IFRS 2 charge
Employer taxes

18 months
ended
31 October
2018
$’000
70,921
(6,637)

Restated
12 months
 ended
30 April
2017
$’000
20,798
10,665

64,284

31,463

As at 31 October 2018, accumulated employer taxes of $20.6m (30 April 2017: $17.0m) are included in trade and other payables and $0.5m 
(30 April 2017: $1.2m) is included in other non-current liabilities.

The Group has various equity-settled share-based compensation plans details of which are provided below.

a)  Incentive Plan 2005
On 27 April 2005 the remuneration committee approved the rules of the Incentive Plan 2005 (“LTIP”) which permits the granting of share options 
to executive directors and senior management. The total number of options they receive is determined by the performance criteria set by the 
remuneration committee over a three year performance period. Prior to 18 April 2011 performance conditions required that cumulative EPS growth 
over a three year vesting period is at least equal to Retail Prices Index (“RPI”) plus 11% (at which point 25% of awards will vest), 60% of shares will 
vest for cumulative EPS growth of RPI plus 13% and for full vesting the cumulative EPS growth will be required to be RPI plus 15% per annum. RPI 
is the general index of the UK retail prices (for all items) published by the Office of National Statistics or any similar index replacing it. Straight-line 
vesting will apply between these points.

Awards granted on or after 18 April 2011 are subject to either Absolute Shareholder Returns (“ASR”) over a three year period, cumulative EPS growth 
or a combination of both. ASR is defined as the average closing share price over the period of five days ending on the day prior to the vesting date less 
the reference price plus the total of all dividends and cash distributions and any other measures as determined by the Remuneration Committee 
between the award date and the vesting date. Where the cumulative EPS growth over a three year period is at least equal to RPI plus 3% per annum 
25% of awards will vest, with full vesting is achieved when the cumulative EPS growth is RPI plus 9% per annum. Straight-line vesting will apply 
between these points. Where the award is subject to ASR, the resulting level of vesting will be reduced by 25% if the ASR is below 150 pence or 
increased by 50% if ASR is 300 pence or more.

Further details are provided in the remuneration committee report on pages 90 to 109.

Outstanding at 1 May
Exercised
Forfeited
Granted

Outstanding at 31 October/30 April

Exercisable at 31 October/30 April

18 months ended
31 October 2018

12 months ended
30 April 2017

Number of 
options
’000
4,662
(1,283)
(582)
2,823

5,620

2,270

Weighted
average
exercise 
price 
pence
29
12
3
–

14

51

Number of
options
’000
5,186
(1,008)
(120)
604

4,662

1,261

Weighted 
average
exercise 
price
pence
41
85
14
6

29

92

The weighted average share price in the period for options on the date of exercise was 1,781 pence for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 
(12 months ended 30 April 2017: 2,027 pence).

The amount charged to the consolidated statement of comprehensive income in respect of the scheme was $30.2m for the 18 months ended 
31 October 2018 (12 months ended 30 April 2017: $16.2m). In addition to this $4.2m (2017: $3.6m charge) was credited to the consolidated 
statement of comprehensive income in respect of National Insurance on these share options.

200

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

35 Employees and directors continued

Range of exercise prices
£0.10 or less
£0.11 – £1.00
£1.01 – £2.00
£2.01 – £3.00
£3.01 – £4.00
More than £4.00

31 October 2018

30 April 2017

Weighted
average
exercise
price
pence
1
13
–
–
358
402

Number of 
options
’000
5,127
205
–
–
146
142

Weighted
average
remaining
contractual
life (years)
6.7
4.9
–
–
0.7
1.7

Weighted
average
exercise
price
pence
4
13
–
281
358
402

Number of 
options
’000
3,856
506
–
5
146
149

Weighted
average
remaining
contractual
life (years)
7.4
6.6
–
0.5
2.2
3.2

14

5,620

4.0

29

4,662

7.0

The weighted average fair value of options granted during the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 determined using the Black-Scholes valuation 
model was £15.25 (12 months ended 30 April 2017: £18.56).

The significant inputs into the model for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 were:

Weighted average share price at the grant date
Expected volatility
Expected dividend yield
Expected option life
Annual risk-free interest rate

18 months ended
31 October 2018
£16.87
between 28.59% and 48.54%
between 2.82% and 7.02%
three years
between 1.0% and 1.6%

12 months ended
30 April 2017
£20.22
between 26.96% and 27.98%
between 2.70% and 3.10%
three years
between 0.71% and 1.09%

The volatility measured at the standard deviation of continuously compounded share returns is based on statistical daily share prices over the last 
three years.

b)  Additional Share Grants

Outstanding at 1 May 
Exercised
Lapsed
Cancelled
Granted

Outstanding at 31 October/30 April

Exercisable at 31 October/30 April

18 months ended
31 October 2018

12 months ended
30 April 2017

Number of 
options
’000
3,262
(200)
(2,412)
(3,276)
13,115

10,489

3,062

Weighted
average
exercise 
price
pence
–
–
–
–
–

–

–

Number of 
options
’000
3,262
–
–
–
–

3,262

3,062

Weighted
average
exercise 
price
pence
–
–
–
–
–

–

–

Additional Share Grants – The Attachmate Group (“TAG”) acquisition
The Remuneration Committee awarded Additional Share Grants (“ASGs”) to a number of senior managers and executives, critical to delivering the 
anticipated results of the acquisition of The Attachmate Group, which completed on 20 November 2014. 

ASGs are nil cost options over ordinary shares. The ASGs became exercisable, subject to the satisfaction of the performance condition, on the third 
anniversary of the date of Completion or 1 November 2017, whichever is earlier (the “vesting date”) and will remain exercisable until the tenth 
anniversary of Completion.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

201

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information  
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

35 Employees and directors continued
The performance condition is that the percentage of ordinary shares subject to the ASG which may be acquired on exercise on or after the vesting 
date is as follows:

(i)  0% if the Shareholder Return Percentage (as defined below) is 50% or less;
(ii) 100% if the Shareholder Return Percentage is 100% or more; and
(iii) A percentage determined on a straight-line basis between (i) and (ii) above.

The “Shareholder Return Percentage” will be calculated by deducting 819.425 pence per share (the “Reference Price”), being the average of the 
20 days before 3 June 2014 (being the date of the heads of agreement relating to the proposed combination of Micro Focus and Attachmate 
between Micro Focus, Wizard, Golden Gate Capital and Francisco Partners Management LP), from the sum of the “Vesting Price” (calculated as the 
average closing share price over the period of 20 days ending on the day prior to the vesting date) plus the total of all dividends per share between 
Completion and the vesting date. This will be divided by the Reference Price, multiplying the resulting figure by 100 to obtain the Shareholder 
Return Percentage.

The weighted average fair value of options granted was £4.40, after using the Monte-Carlo simulation model. The significant inputs into the model 
were weighted average share price of £11.24 at the grant date, exercise price shown above, expected volatility of 26.11%, expected dividend yield of 
3.2%, an expected option life of three years and an annual risk-free interest rate of 2.08%. The volatility measured at the standard deviation of 
continuously compounded share returns is based on statistical daily share prices over the last three years.

Additional Share Grants – The HPE Software business acquisition
The Remuneration Committee awarded a number of Additional Share Grants (“ASGs”) to a number of senior managers and executives, critical to 
delivering the anticipated results of the acquisition of the HPE Software business, which completed on 1 September 2017.

ASGs are nil cost options over ordinary shares. The ASGs will become exercisable, subject to the satisfaction of the performance condition, on the 
third anniversary of the announcement date of 7 September 2016 (the “vesting date”) and will remain exercisable for a period of 84 months 
commencing on the Vesting date.

The performance condition is that the percentage of ordinary shares subject to the ASG which may be acquired on exercise on or after the vesting 
date is as follows:

(i)  0% if the Shareholder Return Percentage (as defined below) is 50% or less;
(ii) 100% if the Shareholder Return Percentage is 100% or more; and
(iii) A percentage determined on a straight-line basis between (i) and (ii) above.

The “Shareholder Return Percentage” will be calculated by deducting 1817.75 pence per share (the “Reference Price”), being the average of the 
20 days before 1 August 2016 (being the date of the heads of agreement relating to the proposed combination of Micro Focus and the HPE 
Software business), from the sum of the “Vesting Price” (calculated as the average closing share price over the period of 20 days ending on the day 
prior to the vesting date) plus the total of all dividends per share between the announcement date and the vesting date. This will be divided by the 
Reference Price, multiplying the resulting figure by 100 to obtain the Shareholder Return Percentage.

On 20 September 2018, the Group announced that, following a review of existing Additional Share Grant (“ASG”) awards after the announcement of 
the forthcoming SUSE sale, ASG awards made to Executive Directors on completion of the HPE Software acquisition on 1 September 2017 would be 
cancelled. New ASG awards were granted in order to align with the business plan to deliver value by October 2020 and focus Executive Directors on 
delivering significant value to shareholders over the three years from completion of the transaction. The Company believes that, in the light of the HPE 
Software business integration and the wider competitive environment evidenced by recent M&A activity in the software sector, the alignment of the 
vesting period to September 2020 is essential to provide an effective incentive over the period of the business plan.

The current Executive Directors (Kevin Loosemore, Stephen Murdoch and Chris Kennedy) and those who were Executive Directors at the time of the 
existing award and remain in employment (Nils Brauckmann and Mike Phillips) agreed to surrender their existing ASG awards made on 1 September 
2017 which were due to vest on 7 September 2019. In return, the Company has made new ASG awards over ordinary shares in the Company as 
detailed below, which are due to vest on 1 September 2020 (being three years from the completion of the transaction). 

202

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

35 Employees and directors continued

Director
Kevin Loosemore
Stephen Murdoch
Chris Kennedy1
Mike Phillips
Nils Brauckmann

Number of 
granted and 
cancelled
nil cost share 
options
over Ordinary 
Shares
’000
1,100
500
500
676
500

Number of 
replacement
 nil cost options
over Ordinary 
Shares
’000
1,100
947
676
676
500

3,276

3,899

1 

 The share options awarded to Chris Kennedy’s replacement HPE Software ASGs will lapse as a result of his resignation and subsequent leaving employment in February 2019. This has 
been reflected in the share options disclosures.

The Total Shareholder Returns (“TSR”) performance thresholds for the new awards are unchanged from the previous awards, save in respect of the 
period to vesting, and the number of new awards is equal to the number of previous awards which they replace, except for Stephen Murdoch and Chris 
Kennedy where increases of 447,000 and 176,000 awards respectively have been made to reflect Stephen’s promotion to Chief Executive Officer 
and to align Chris’ awards to those granted to his predecessor.

As new ASGs have been granted to replace the original ASGs that have been cancelled, this is treated under IFRS 2 “Share-based payment” as 
modification of the original ASG grant. Due to the performance conditions attached to them, the fair value for ASGs is determined using the Monte 
Carlo simulation method. The fair value of the original awards is determined at the modification date (20 Sept 2018) i.e. replacing the original fair 
values. The incremental fair value of the new awards over the original awards at the date of modification is recognised in addition to the grant date fair 
value. The original expense continues to be recognised over the original service period, the incremental expense is recognised over the remaining 
service period for the new awards i.e. to 1 September 2020 rather than 7 September 2019.

The weighted average fair value of options granted during the period determined using the Monte-Carlo simulation model was £4.80.

The significant inputs into the model for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 were:

Weighted average share price at the grant date
Expected volatility
Expected dividend yield
Expected option life
Annual risk-free interest rate

18 months
ended
31 October 2018
£18.35
Between 28.00% – 31.00%
Between 3.26% – 5.29%
 1.96 years
Between 0.43% – 0.84%

12 months
ended
30 April 2017
£11.05
Between 25.81% – 26.11%
Between 2.90% – 3.30%
3 years
Between 1.71% – 2.08%

The volatility measured at the standard deviation of continuously compounded share returns is based on statistical daily share prices over the last 
three years. 

The amount charged to the consolidated statement of comprehensive income in respect of the ASGs was $45.6m for the 18 months ended 
31 October 2018 (12 months ended 30 April 2017: $6.6m). In addition to this $2.5m (12 months ended 30 April 2017: $7.0m charge) was 
credited to the consolidated statement of comprehensive income in respect of National Insurance on these share options in the 18 months ended 
31 October 2018.

Range of exercise prices
£0.00

31 October 2018

30 April 2017

Weighted 
average 
exercise 
price
pence
–

Number of 
options
’000
10,489

Weighted 
average 
remaining
contractual 
life (years)
5.5

Weighted 
average 
exercise
price
pence
–

Number of 
options
’000
3,262

Weighted 
average 
remaining 
contractual
life (years)
7.6

–

10,489

5.5

–

3,262

7.6

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

203

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

35 Employees and directors continued
c)  Sharesave and Employee Stock Purchase Plan 2006
In August 2006, the Company introduced the Micro Focus Employee Stock Purchase Plan 2006 and the Micro Focus Sharesave Plan 2006, 
approved by members on 25 July 2006. The Group operates several plans throughout the world, but the two main plans are the Sharesave Plan 
(“Sharesave”) primarily for UK employees and the Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“ESPP”) for employees in the USA and Canada. The Sharesave 
and ESPP provide for an annual award of options at a discount to the market price and are open to all eligible Group employees. Under these plans 
employees make monthly savings over a period (Sharesave three years, ESPP two years) linked to the grant of an option with an option price which 
can be at a discount (Sharesave 20%, ESPP 15%) of the market value of the shares on grant. The option grants are subject to employment 
conditions and continuous savings.

Further Sharesave and ESPP grants were made during the 18 months to 31 October 2018.

Sharesave
Outstanding at 1 May
Exercised
Forfeited
Granted

Outstanding

Exercisable

ESPP
At 1 May
Exercised
Forfeited
Granted

Outstanding

Exercisable

Number of 
options
’000
1
46
40
80
43
264
22

496

Date of grant
10 February 2015
7 August 2015
9 February 2016
12 August 2016
23 February 2018 
3 August 2018
3 August 2018

18 months ended
31 October 2018

12 months ended
30 April 2017

Number of 
options
’000
559
(294)
(223)
454

496

47

Exercise price
per share
pence
838.4
1,112.0
1,200.0
1,465.6
1,720.0
1,023.0
1,159.0

Weighted
average
exercise 
price
pence
1,039
829
1,508
1,293

1,185

1,116

Number of 
options
’000
544
(90)
(28)
133

559

–

Weighted
average
exercise 
price
pence
862
618
1,001
1,466

1,039

–

Exercise period
1 April 2018 – 30 September 2018
1 October 2018 – 31 March 2019
1 April 2019 – 30 September 2019
1 October 2019 – 1 February 2020
1 April 2021 – 30 September 2021
1 October 2021 – 31 March 2022 
1 October 2021 – 1 April 2022

18 months ended
31 October 2018

12 months ended
30 April 2017

Number of 
options
’000
124
(110)
(31)
817

800

–

Weighted
average
exercise 
price
pence
1,510
1,598
1,236
1,057

1,047

1,021

Number of 
options
’000
272
(93)
(142)
87

124

–

Weighted
average
exercise 
price
pence
1,080
998
1,220
1,836

1,510

–

204

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

35 Employees and directors continued

Number of 
options
’000
Date of grant
19 1 October 2016
1 March 2018
1 July 2018

337
444

Exercise price
per share
pence
1,875.6
1,235.6
868.5

800

Exercise period
1 October 2018 – 31 December 2018 
1 March 2020 – 31 May 2020
1 July 2020 – 30 September 2020

The amount charged to the consolidated statement of comprehensive income in respect of the Sharesave and ESPP schemes was $2.9m for the 
18 months ended 31 October 2018 (12 months ended 30 April 2017: $1.1m).

The weighted average fair value of options granted in the Sharesave and ESPP schemes during the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 determined 
using the Black-Scholes valuation model was £6.28 (2017: £5.36).

The significant inputs into the model for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 were:

Weighted average share price at the grant date
Expected volatility
Expected dividend yield
Expected option life
Annual risk-free interest rate

18 months
ended
31 October
2018
£15.48
between 28.82% – 48.60%
between 3.86% – 7.02%
two or three years
between 1.3% – 1.5%

12 months
ended
30 April
2017
£20.56
26.95% 
2.60% 
two or three years
0.61% 

The volatility measured at the standard deviation of continuously compounded share returns is based on statistical daily share prices over the last 
three years. 

36 Operating lease commitments – minimum lease payments
At 31 October 2018 the Group has a number of lease agreements in respect of properties, vehicles, plant and equipment, for which the payments 
extend over a number of years.

Future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases expiring:
No later than one year
Later than one year and no later than five years
Later than five years

Total

31 October 
2018
$’000

30 April 
2017
$’000

65,831
139,695
22,503

28,330
85,008
28,749

228,029

142,087

The Group leases various offices under non-cancellable operating lease agreements that are included in the table. The leases have various terms, 
escalation clauses and renewal rights. The minimum lease payments payable under operating leases recognised as an expense in the 18 months 
ended 31 October 2018 were $103.8m (12 months ended 30 April 2017: $26.3m).

37 Contingent liabilities
The Company and several of its subsidiaries are, from time to time, parties to legal proceedings and claims which arise in the ordinary course of 
business. The directors do not anticipate that the outcome of these proceedings, actions and claims, either individually or in aggregate, will have a 
material adverse effect upon the Group’s financial position.

Shareholder litigation
Micro Focus International plc and certain current and former directors and officers are involved in two class action lawsuits in which plaintiffs are 
seeking damages for alleged violations of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Exchange Act of 1934. Plaintiffs allege false and misleading statements 
or omissions in offering documents issued in connection with the Hewlett Packard Enterprise software business merger and issuance of Micro Focus 
American Depository Shares (“ADS”) as merger consideration, and other purportedly false and misleading statements. No liability has been 
recognised in either case as these are still very early in proceedings and it is too early to estimate whether there will be any financial impact.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

205

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

38 Related party transactions
The Group’s related parties are its subsidiary undertakings, key management personnel and post-employment benefit plans.

Subsidiaries
Transactions between the Company and its subsidiaries have been eliminated on consolidation.

Remuneration of key management personnel
The remuneration of key management personnel of the Group (which is defined as members of the executive committee including executive directors) 
is set out in note 35. There are no loans between the Group and the key management personnel.

Transactions with other related parties.
The following transactions occurred with other related parties:

Contributions made to pension plans by the Group on behalf of employees are set out in note 27.

Sales and purchases of goods and services between related parties are not considered material.

39 Business combinations
Summary of acquisitions

Acquisitions in the 18 months ended  
31 October 2018:
HPE Software business
COBOL-IT

Acquisitions in the 12 months ended  
30 April 2017:
Serena Software Inc.
GWAVA Inc.
OpenATTIC
OpenStack

Carrying 
value at 
acquisition
$’000

Fair value 
adjustments
$’000

Consideration

Goodwill
$’000

Shares
$’000

Cash
$’000

Total
$’000

(2,487,916) 4,143,712
14,026

(2,952)

4,858,374
5,588

6,514,170
–

–
16,662

6,514,170
16,662

(2,490,868)

4,157,738

4,863,962

6,514,170

16,662

6,530,832

147,260
618
–
–

(249,306)
3,062
4,991
–

379,669
12,767
–
–

147,878

(241,253)

392,436

–
–
–
–

–

277,623
16,447
4,991
–

277,623
16,447
4,991
–

299,061

299,061

(2,342,990) 3,916,485

5,256,398

6,514,170

315,723

6,829,893

Acquisitions in the 18 months ended 31 October 2018:
1  Acquisition of the HPE Software business
On 1 September 2017, the Company completed the acquisition of HPE’s software business (“HPE Software”) by way of merger with a wholly owned 
subsidiary of HPE incorporated to hold the business of HPE Software in accordance with the terms of the previously announced Merger agreement 
(“Completion”). Accordingly, on Admission, American Depositary Shares representing 222,166,897 Consideration Shares were issued to HPE 
Shareholders, representing 50.1% of the fully diluted share capital of the Company. The fair value of the ordinary shares issued was based on the 
listed share price of the Company as of 31 August 2017 of $6.5bn. The costs of acquiring the HPE Software business of $70.1m are included in 
exceptional items (note 4) and include costs relating to due diligence work, legal work on the acquisition agreement and professional advisors on 
the transaction. 

This acquisition has created a global infrastructure software business with pro-forma revenues in the 12 months to 30 April 2017 of approximately 
$4.4bn and Adjusted EBITDA of approximately $1.4bn making it the seventh largest pure play software company in the world and a leading 
technology stock on the LSE.

There was judgement used in identifying who the accounting acquirer was in the acquisition of the HPE Software business, as the resulting 
shareholdings were not definitive to identify the entity which obtains control in the transaction. The Group considered the other factors laid down in 
IFRS, such as the composition of the governing body of the combined entity, composition of senior management of the combined entity, the entity that 
issued equity interest, terms of exchange of equity interests, the entity which initiated the combination, relative size of each entity, the existence of a 
large minority voting interest in the combined entity and other factors (e.g. location of headquarters of the combined entity and entity name). The 
conclusion of this assessment is that the Company is the accounting acquirer of the HPE Software business, and the acquisition accounting, as set 
out below, has been performed on this basis.

206

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

39 Business combinations continued
Details of the net assets acquired and goodwill are as follows:

Intangible assets (note 11)1
Property, plant and equipment (note 12)
Other non-current assets
Inventories
Trade and other receivables
Current tax recoverable
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade and other payables
Current tax liabilities
Borrowings
Short-term provisions
Short-term deferred income (note 24)2
Long-term deferred income (note 25)2
Long-term provisions (note 26)
Retirement benefit obligations (note 27)
Other non-current liabilities
Deferred tax assets/(liabilities)3 

Net (liabilities)/assets
Goodwill (note 10)

Consideration

Consideration satisfied by :

Shares

Fair value 
Carrying value
Fair value
adjustments
at acquisition
$’000
$’000
$’000
6,539,825
6,467,000
72,825
160,118
–
160,118
41,929
–
41,929
185
–
185
721,009
–
721,009
496
–
496
320,729
–
320,729
(685,239)
1,616
(686,855)
(9,942)
–
(9,942)
– (2,547,604)
(2,547,604)
(30,182)
–
(30,182)
(643,165)
58,004
(701,169)
(108,206)
8,652
(116,858)
(38,983)
–
(38,983)
(71,445)
–
(71,445)
(40,276)
(52,421)
12,145
(1,953,453)
450,252 (2,403,705)

(2,487,916)
–

4,143,712

1,655,796
4,858,374

6,514,170

6,514,170

The Group has used acquisition accounting for the purchase and the goodwill arising on consolidation of $4,858.4m has been capitalised. The Group 
made a repayment of working capital in respect of the HPE Software business acquisition of $225.8m in the period.

Trade and other receivables are net of a provision for impairment of trade receivables of $21.5m.

A fair value review has been carried out on the assets and liabilities of the acquired business, resulting in the identification of intangible assets.

The fair value adjustments include:
1 

 Purchased intangible assets have been valued based on a market participant point of view and the fair value has been based on various characteristics of the product lines and intangible 
assets of the HPE Software business;

2  Deferred income has been valued taking account of the remaining performance obligations; and
3  A deferred tax liability has been established relating to the purchase of intangibles.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

207

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

39 Business combinations continued
The purchased intangible assets acquired as part of the acquisition can be analysed as follows (note 11):

Technology 
Customer relationships 
Trade names
Leases

Fair value
$’000
1,809,000
4,480,000
163,000
15,000

6,467,000

The value of the goodwill represents the value of the assembled workforce at the time of the acquisition with specific knowledge and technical skills. 
It also represents the prospective future economic benefits that are expected to accrue from enhancing the portfolio of products available to the 
Company’s existing customer base with those of the acquired business.

As a consequence of the HPE Software business transaction, the Group is subject to potentially significant restrictions relating to tax issues that 
could limit the Group’s ability to undertake certain corporate actions (such as the issuance of Micro Focus shares or Micro Focus ADSs or the 
undertaking of a merger or consolidation) that otherwise could be advantageous to the Group. The Group is obliged to indemnify HPE for tax liabilities 
relating to the separation of the HPE Software business from HPE if such liabilities are triggered by actions taken by the Group. The Group has robust 
procedures in place, including on-going consultation with its tax advisors, to ensure no such triggering actions are taken.

The impact of the results of the HPE Software business acquisition has not been separately disclosed in these Consolidated financial statements as it 
is not practical to do so as it has been integrated into the Micro Focus Product Portfolio segment.

2  Acquisition of COBOL-IT, SAS
On 1 December 2017, the Group completed on the acquisition of COBOL-IT SAS (“COBOL-IT”). COBOL-IT is in the business of designing, editing and 
commercialisation of software, IT devices and related services.

Consideration of $16.7m consists of completion payment of Euro 11.3m, retention amounts of Euro 2.7m payable at a later date, working capital 
adjustments and net cash adjustments. The Group has not presented the full IFRS 3 “Business Combinations” disclosures as this acquisition is not 
material to the Group. 

A fair value review was carried out on the assets and liabilities of the acquired business, resulting in the identification of intangible assets. The fair 
value review was finalised in the 12 month hindsight period following completion, which ended on 30 November 2018. Goodwill of $5.6m (note 10), 
deferred tax liabilities of $3.9m, purchased intangibles of $14.0m (note 11) (Purchased Technology $1.5m, Customer relationships $12.3m and Trade 
names $0.2m) and cash of $1.0m were recorded as a result of the COBOL-IT acquisition and no hindsight adjustments were identified.

3  Acquisition of Covertix
On 15 May 2018, the Group entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement (“the agreement”) to acquire certain assets of Covertix, an Israeli company 
that had entered voluntary liquidation in April 2018. Covertix used their patented solutions to develop and sell security products that offered control 
and protection of confidential files when shared with both internal and external parties. Prior to entering liquidation Covertix had offices in Israel and 
the US, with partners in the Netherlands and Singapore.

Under the agreement, the Group paid $2.5m in cash to acquire certain equipment, patents, licence rights under certain agreements, and seven 
employees all involved in R&D activities. The purchase completed on 26 July 2018.

Under IFRS 3, the Covertix Ltd. acquisition is considered to be a business combination, however due to the immaterial amount of the transaction, the 
assets acquired have been recorded at cost and are being amortised over their useful lives within the ledgers of the acquiring entities. The Company 
did not create a new subsidiary for Covertix and no goodwill has been recorded.

208

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

39 Business combinations continued
Acquisitions in the year ended 30 April 2017:
1  Acquisition of Serena Software Inc.
On 2 May 2016, the Group acquired the entire share capital of Spartacus Acquisition Holdings, Corp, the holding company of Serena Software Inc. 
(“Serena”) and its subsidiaries for $277.6m, payable in cash at completion. The Group then repaid the outstanding Serena bank borrowings of 
$316.7m as at 2 May 2016, making the total cash outflow for the Group of $528.5m, net of cash acquired of $65.8m. The transaction costs for the 
Serena acquisition were $0.9m ($0.5m was incurred in the year ended 30 April 2016).

The acquisition is highly consistent with the Group’s established acquisition strategy and focus on the efficient management of mature infrastructure 
software products.

Serena is a leading provider of enterprise software focused on providing Application Lifecycle Management products for both mainframe and 
distributed systems. Whilst Serena is headquartered in San Mateo, California, the operations were effectively managed from offices in Hillsboro, 
Oregon and St. Albans in the United Kingdom. It operates in a further 10 countries. The Serena Group’s customers are typically highly regulated 
large enterprises, across a variety of sectors including banking, insurance, telco, manufacturing and retail, healthcare and government.

Serena was integrated into the Micro Focus Product Portfolio and the revenues reported in the Development and IT Operations Management Tools 
sub-portfolio.

The transaction was funded through the Group’s existing cash resources together with additional debt and equity finance arranged through Barclays, 
HSBC, the Royal Bank of Scotland and Numis Securities. On 2 May 2016, the Group’s existing revolving credit facility was extended from $225m to 
$375m and the Group raised approximately £158.2m (approximately $225.7m) through a Placing underwritten by Numis Securities incurring $3.0m 
of costs associated with the Placing in March 2016.

A fair value review was carried out and finalised on the assets and liabilities of the acquired business, resulting in the identification of intangible assets.

Details of the net assets acquired and goodwill are as follows:

Goodwill
Intangible assets – purchased1
Intangible assets – other 
Property, plant and equipment
Other non-current assets
Deferred tax asset 
Trade and other receivables
Cash and cash equivalent
Borrowings – short-term 
Trade and other payables 
Provisions – short-term
Current tax liabilities
Deferred income – short-term2
Deferred income – long-term2
Borrowings – long-term 
Other non-current liabilities
Deferred tax liabilities3

Net assets/(liabilities)
Goodwill (note 10)

Consideration

Consideration satisfied by :

Cash

Carrying value 
at acquisition
$’000
462,400
–
79
1,927
167
15,347
27,362
65,784
(27,712)
(11,766)
(4,045)
(3,173)
(72,217)
(14,853)
(288,938)
(717)
(2,385)

Fair value 
adjustments
$’000
(462,400)
317,700
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
3,761
798
–
–
(109,165)

147,260

(249,306)

Fair value
$’000
–
317,700
79
1,927
167
15,347
27,362
65,784
(27,712)
(11,766)
(4,045)
(3,173)
(68,456)
(14,055)
(288,938)
(717)
(111,550)

(102,046)
379,669

277,623

277,623

The fair value adjustments relate to:
1 

 Purchased intangible assets have been valued based on a market participant point of view and the fair value has been based on various characteristics of the product lines and intangible 
assets of Serena;

2  Deferred income has been valued taking account of the remaining performance obligations; and
3   A deferred tax liability has been established relating to the purchase of intangibles.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

209

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information  
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

39 Business combinations continued
The purchased intangible assets acquired as part of the acquisition can be analysed as follows (note 11):

Technology 
Customer relationships 
Trade names

Fair value
$’000
86,100
210,200
21,400

317,700

The value of the goodwill represents the value of the assembled workforce at the time of the acquisition with specific knowledge and technical skills. 
It also represents the prospective future economic benefits that are expected to accrue from enhancing the portfolio of products available to the 
Company’s existing customer base with those of the acquired business.

The Group has used acquisition accounting for the purchase and the goodwill arising on consolidation of $379.7m has been capitalised.

2   Acquisition of GWAVA Inc.
On 30 September 2016, the Group acquired the entire share capital of GWAVA Inc. (“GWAVA”) and its subsidiaries for $16.4m, payable in cash at 
completion. The transaction costs for the GWAVA acquisition were $1.5m.

The acquisition is highly consistent with the Group’s established acquisition strategy and focus on the efficient management of mature infrastructure 
software products.

GWAVA is a leading company in email security and enterprise information archiving (“EIA”). GWAVA has approximately 90 employees, based in the 
US, Canada and Germany. More than a million users across 60 countries rely on its products in over 3,000 customer organisations, supported by 
GWAVA’s global team, with a further 1,000 GWAVA business partners collaborating closely to ensure successful customer solutions. In addition to 
GWAVA’s award winning EIA product Retain, GWAVA has a full suite of products to protect, optimise, secure and ensure compliance for customers 
running Micro Focus GroupWise. 

A fair value review was carried out on the assets and liabilities of the acquired business, resulting in the identification of intangible assets.

Details of the net assets acquired and goodwill are as follows:

Intangible assets – purchased1
Intangible assets – other2
Property, plant and equipment
Trade and other receivables 
Cash and cash equivalent
Trade and other payables 
Deferred income – short-term3
Deferred income – long-term
Deferred tax liabilities4

Net assets 
Goodwill (note 10)

Consideration

Consideration satisfied by :

Cash

Carrying value 
at acquisition
$’000
–
1,180
195
3,096
2,389
(1,331)
(4,094)
(817)
–

Fair value 
adjustments
$’000
5,330
(1,180)
–
–
–
–
324
–
(1,412)

618

3,062

Fair value
$’000
5,330
–
195
3,096
2,389
(1,331)
(3,770)
(817)
(1,412)

3,680
12,767

16,447

16,447

The fair value adjustments relate to:
1    Purchased intangible assets have been valued based on a market participant point of view and the fair value has been based on various characteristics of the product lines and intangible 

assets of GWAVA Inc.;

2   Other intangible assets relating to historic IP has been written down to nil;
3   Deferred income has been valued taking account of the remaining performance obligations; and
4   A deferred tax liability has been established relating to the purchase of intangibles.

210

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
39 Business combinations continued
The purchased intangible assets acquired as part of the acquisition can be analysed as follows (note 10):

Technology 
Customer relationships 
Trade names

Fair value
$’000
4,075
544
711

5,330

The value of the goodwill represents the value of the assembled workforce at the time of the acquisition with specific knowledge and technical skills. 
It also represents the prospective future economic benefits that are expected to accrue from enhancing the portfolio of products available to the 
Company’s existing customer base with those of the acquired business.

The Group has used acquisition accounting for the purchase and the goodwill arising on consolidation of $12.8m has been capitalised.

3  Acquisition of OpenATTIC
On 1 November 2016, the Group acquired the OpenATTIC storage management technology and engineering talent from the company it-novum 
GmbH for a cash consideration of 4.7m Euros ($5.0m). The OpenATTIC technology aligns perfectly with SUSE’s strategy to provide open source, 
software defined infrastructure solutions for the enterprise and will strengthen SUSE’s Enterprise Storage solution by adding enterprise grade storage 
management capabilities to the portfolio. The transaction costs for the OpenATTIC acquisition were $1.2m. OpenATTIC will be included in the Group’s 
SUSE business disposal (note 19).

A fair value review was carried out on the assets and liabilities of the acquired business, resulting in the identification of intangible assets. 

Details of the net assets acquired and goodwill are as follows:

Intangible assets – purchased technology

Net assets 
Goodwill 

Consideration

Consideration satisfied by :

Cash

Carrying value 
at acquisition
$’000
–

Fair value 
adjustments
$’000
4,991

–

4,991

Fair value
$’000
4,991

4,991
–

4,991

4,991

4  Acquisition of OpenStack
During the year, the Group acquired purchased technology and talent from HPE for $nil consideration that will expand SUSE’s OpenStack 
Infrastructure-as-a-Service (“IaaS”) solution and accelerate SUSE’s entry into the growing Cloud Foundry Platform-as-a-Service (“PaaS”) market, 
subject to regulatory clearances. The last regulatory clearance was received on 8 March 2017 and the deal was completed then. OpenStack will be 
included in the Group’s SUSE business disposal (note 19).

The acquired OpenStack technology assets were integrated into SUSE OpenStack Cloud and the acquired Cloud Foundry and PaaS assets will 
enable SUSE in the future to bring to market a certified, enterprise-ready SUSE Cloud Foundry PaaS solution for all customers and partners in the 
SUSE ecosystem. Additionally, SUSE has increased engagement with the Cloud Foundry Foundation, becoming a platinum member and taking a seat 
on the Cloud Foundry Foundation Board.

As part of the transaction, HPE has named SUSE as its preferred open source partner for Linux, OpenStack IaaS and Cloud Foundry PaaS. HPE’s 
choice of SUSE as their preferred open source partner further cements SUSE’s reputation for delivering high quality, enterprise-grade open source 
solutions and services.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

211

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information  
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

40. Cash flow statement

Cash flows from operating activities
Profit from continuing operations
Profit from discontinued operation

Profit for the period
Adjustments for:
Net finance costs
Taxation
Share of results of associates

Operating profit
Research and development tax credits
Depreciation
Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment
Amortisation of intangible assets
Share-based compensation charge
Foreign exchange movements
Provisions movements
Changes in working capital:
Inventories
Trade and other receivables
Payables and other liabilities
Provision utilisation
Deferred income
Pension funding in excess of charge to operating profit

Cash generated from operations

18 months
ended
31 October
2018
$’000

Note

Restated1
12 months
 ended
30 April
 2017
$’000

707,193
76,940

124,083
33,720

784,133

157,803

6
7

342,712
(638,875)
1,809

12

11
35

26

26

489,779
(2,013)
95,179
4,581
943,210
72,175
(34,505)
142,859

35
(408,879)
131,333
(145,012)
131,477
4,092

95,845
38,541
1,254

293,443
(2,998)
11,794
520
236,434
34,506
(4,890)
47,266

29
10,224
(33,252)
(43,476)
15,375
(183)

1,424,311

564,792

1  The comparatives for the 12 months ended 30 April 2017 have been restated to reflect the divestiture of the SUSE business segment (note 19).

41 Post balance sheet events
Atalla
On 18 May 2018 the Company entered into an agreement with Utimaco Inc. (“Utimaco”), under which Utimaco would acquire the Atalla product lines 
for $20m in cash. The deal was subject to regulatory approval by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (“CFIUS”). CFIUS placed 
the deal into investigation in September and final approval was received 10 October 2018. The deal closed on 5 November 2018 and Utimaco 
acquired the Atalla HSM product line, the Enterprise Security Manger (“ESKM”) product line, and related supporting assets, including applicable 
patents and other IP.

Share buy-back
On 29 August 2018, the company announced the start of a share buy-back programme for an initial tranche of up to $200m which was extended on 
5 November 2018 to the total value of $400m (including the initial tranche). Up to and including 13 February 2019 the company had spent $400m 
and purchased 22,455,121 shares at an average price of £13.82 per share. We are now extending this buy-back programme into a third tranche of 
up to $110m to be executed in the period from 14 February 2019, up until the day before the AGM which takes place on 29 March 2019 when the 
current buy-back authority approved by shareholders at the 2017 AGM to make market purchases of up to 65,211,171 ordinary shares will expire.

Interset
On 15 February 2019, the Group completed the acquisition of Interset Software Inc., a worldwide leader in security analytics software that provides 
highly intelligent and accurate cyber-threat protection. The addition of this predictive analytics technology adds depth to Micro Focus’ Security, 
Risk & Governance portfolio, and aligns with the Company’s strategy to help customers quickly and accurately validate and assess risk as they digitally 
transform their businesses.

212

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Company financial statements and notes

214
215
216
217

Company balance sheet 
Company statement of changes in equity
Company statement of cash flows
Notes to the Company financial statements

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

213

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Company Balance Sheet
as at 31 October 2018

Fixed assets
Investments

Current assets
Deferred tax assets
Debtors
Cash at bank and in hand

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year

Net current assets

Total assets less current liabilities

Capital and reserves
Called up share capital
Share premium account
Capital redemption reserve
Merger reserve
Retained earnings

Total equity

31 October 
2018
$’000

Note

30 April
2017
$’000

VIII

382,015

328,556

382,015

328,556

IX

X

XII
XII

–
7,625,013
990

2,787
1,218,471
667

7,626,003
(266,410)

1,221,925
(72,190)

7,359,593

1,149,735

7,741,608

1,478,291

65,798
40,961
666,289
3,751,469
3,217,091

39,700
192,145
163,363
365,189
717,894

7,741,608

1,478,291

The profit for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 before dividends for the Company was $878.7m (12 months to 30 April 2017: loss of $41.7m).

The Company financial statements on pages 214 to 224 were approved by the board of directors on 20 February 2019 and were signed on its 
behalf by:

Stephen Murdoch 
Chief Executive Officer   

Registered number: 5134647

Chris Kennedy
Chief Financial Officer

The accompanying notes form part of the financial statements.

214

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Company statement of changes in equity
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018

Balance as at 1 May 2016
Loss for the year
Other comprehensive income for the year

Total comprehensive expense for the year

Dividends 
Issue of share capital
Reallocation of merger reserve3
Movement in relation to share options: 
–  Value of subsidiary employee services 
–  Value of services provided 
Share purchased by the Employee Benefit Trust
Deferred tax on share options

Total changes in equity

Balance as at 30 April 2017

Profit for the period
Other comprehensive income for 
the period

Total comprehensive income for the period
Transaction with owners:
Dividends
Issue of share capital
Movement in relation to share options:
–  Value of subsidiary employee services
–  Value of services provided
Acquisitions:
Shares issued to acquire HPE Software business
Share reorganisation and buyback:
Return of Value – share consolidation
Issue and redemption of B shares
Share buy-back
Reallocation of merger reserve3

Total changes in equity

Balance as at 31 October 2018

Note

IV

VI
V

IV

VI
V

X

XII
XII
XII

–

–

–

–
251

–
–

28,773

(2,926)
–
–
–

26,098

65,798

Called up
share capital
$’000
39,573
–
–

Share premium 
account
$’000
190,293
–
–

Retained 
earnings
$’000
275,232
(41,699)
–

Merger
reserves2
$’000
1,015,189
–
–

Capital 
redemption
reserves1
$’000
163,363
–
–

–

–
127
–

–
–
–
–

–

(41,699)

–

–
1,852
–

(177,535)
(90)
650,000

–
–
(650,000)

–
–
–
–

16,345
6,453
(7,678)
(3,134)

–
–
–
–

127

1,852

442,662

(650,000)

–

–
–
–

–
–
–

–

Total
equity
$’000
1,683,650
(41,699)
–

(41,699)

(177,535)
1,889
–

16,345
6,453
(7,678)
(3,134)

(205,359)

39,700

192,145

717,894

365,189

163,363

1,478,291

–

–

–

878,696

–

878,696

–
5,499

(542,161)
(61)

53,571
25,062

–
–

–

–

6,485,397

–

–

–

–
–

–
–

–

–

–

–
–

–
–

–

878,696

–

878,696

(542,161)
5,689

53,571
25,062

6,514,170

–
(500,000)
(171,710)
–

–
(156,683)
–
–

–
(500,000)
(171,710)

–
(343,317)
–
2,755,800 (2,755,800)

2,926
500,000
–
–

(151,184)

2,499,197

3,386,280

502,926

6,263,317

40,961

3,217,091

3,751,469

666,289

7,741,608

1 

2 

3 

 In August 2017 a Return of Value was made to shareholders, amounting to $500.0m in cash, which resulted in a further $500.0m added to the capital redemption reserve. This was 
structured as a B Share Scheme, the B Shares being issued out of a combination of the share premium account and the exiting merger reserve.
 On 20 November 2014, The Attachmate Group (“TAG”) acquisition was completed. As a result of this a merger reserve was created of $1,372.7m. The acquisition of TAG was structured 
by way of a share for share exchange this transaction fell within the provisions of section 612 of the Companies Act 2006 (merger relief) such that no share premium was recorded in 
respect of the shares issued. The Company chose to record its investment in TAG at fair value and therefore recorded a merger reserve equal to the value of the share premium which 
would have been recorded had section 612 of the Companies Act 2006 not been applicable (i.e. equal to the difference between the fair value of TAG and the aggregate nominal value 
of the shares issued). This merger reserve was initially considered unrealised on the basis it was represented by the investment in TAG, which is not considered to represent qualifying 
consideration (in accordance with Tech 02/17 (Guidance on the determination of realised profits and losses in the context of distributions under the Companies Act 2006)). Immediately 
following the acquisition of TAG, the Company’s investment in TAG was transferred to another Group Company in exchange for an intercompany loan. On 1 September 2017, the 
Company completed the HPE Software business transaction, this was structured in a similar way to the TAG acquisition and created a merger reserve of $6,485.4m. During the period to 
31 October 2018, the Company transferred the investment in the HPE Software business to a wholly owned subsidiary in exchange for an intercompany receivable of $6,803.2m. To the 
extent this loan is settled in qualifying consideration, the related proportion of the merger reserve is considered realised.
 The merger reserve is an unrealised profit until it can be realised by the settlement of the intercompany loan by qualifying consideration. Of the $2,755.8m merger reserve transfer in the 
period, $408.2m of the intercompany loan has been settled in the period and the remaining $2,347.6m is expected to be settled in qualifying consideration during the year to 31 October 
2019 (year to 30 April 2017: $650.0m) and as such an equivalent proportion of the merger reserve is considered realised, in accordance with section 3.11(d) of Tech 02/17 and 
therefore has been transferred to the profit and loss account.

As at 31 October 2018 the value of distributable reserves was $3,105,935,000 (30 April 2017: $660,164,000).

The accompanying notes form part of the financial statements.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

215

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Company statement of cash flows
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018

Profit/(loss) for the financial period/year
Adjustments for:
Income from shares in Group undertakings
Net interest
Taxation
Share-based payment charge
Exchange movements
Changes in working capital:
Decrease in amounts owed from Group undertakings
Increase in amounts owed to Group undertakings
(Increase)/decrease in other debtors
Increase in creditors

Cash generated from operations
Interest paid
Taxation (paid)/received

Net cash generated from operating activities

Cash flows from investing activities
Interest received

Net cash generated from investing activities

Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from issue of ordinary share capital
Return of Value paid to shareholders
Treasury shares acquired
Dividends paid to owners

Net cash used in financing activities

Effects of exchange rate changes

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the period

Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period/year

Note

18 months
ended
31 October
2018
$’000
878,696

(920,000)
(19)
2,787
22,778
(9,766)

1,029,137
162,240
(1,509)
44,081

1,208,425
–
–

1,208,425

12 months
ended
30 April
2017
$’000
(41,699)

–
(14)
(198)
10,297
550

163,355
30,202
3,611
16,216

182,320
–
–

182,320

19

19

14

14

5,750
(500,000)
(171,710)
(542,161)

1,979
–
(7,678)
(177,535)

(1,208,121)

(183,234)

V

–

323
667

990

–

(900)
1,567

667

The principal non-cash transactions in the 18 months to 31 October 2018 were the issuance of shares as purchase consideration for the HPE 
Software business acquisition (note 39 in the Group’s consolidated financial statements) and the subsequent disposal of the investment in the HPE 
Software business to another Group company in exchange for a Group intercompany loan. 

The accompanying notes form part of the financial statements.

216

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Notes to the Company financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018

I Statement of compliance
The Company financial statements have been prepared in compliance with United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting 
Standard 102, “The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland” (“FRS 102”) and the Companies 
Act 2006.

II Summary of significant accounting policies
The basis of preparation and the principal accounting policies adopted in the preparation of the Company financial information are set out below. 
These policies have been applied consistently to all years presented. The Company has adopted FRS 102 in these financial statements.

A Basis of preparation
The Company financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis under the historical cost convention and in accordance with the 
Companies Act 2006 and all applicable UK accounting standards. During the period the Company has changed its year end from 30 April to 
31 October and therefore is reporting an 18 month period as at 31 October 2018.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with FRS 102 requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates. It also requires 
management to exercise its judgement in the process of applying the Company’s accounting policies. The areas involving a higher degree of 
judgement or complexity, or areas where assumptions and estimates are significant to the financial statements, are disclosed in note III.

B Going concern
The directors, having made enquiries, consider that the Company has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable 
future, and therefore it is appropriate to maintain the going concern basis in preparing the financial statements.

C Exemptions for qualifying entities under FRS 102
FRS 102 allows a qualifying entity certain disclosure exemptions. The Company has not taken advantage of any available exemption for 
qualifying entities.

D Foreign currency translation
The functional currency of the Company is US dollars. Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currency using the exchange 
rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from the 
translation at period-end exchange rates of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are recognised in the statement of 
comprehensive income.

E Employee benefits
a) Short-term benefits
Short-term benefits, including holiday pay and other similar non-monetary benefits, are recognised as an expense in the period in which the service 
is received.

b) Defined contribution pension plan
The Company operates a defined contribution plan for which it pays contributions to publicly or privately administered pension insurance plans on a 
mandatory, contractual or voluntary basis. The Company has no further payment obligations once the contributions have been paid. The contributions 
are recognised as employee benefit expense when they are due. Prepaid contributions are recognised as an asset to the extent that a cash refund or 
a reduction in the future payments is available.

c) Share based payments
The Company operated various equity-settled, share based compensation plans during the period.

No expense is recognised in respect of share options granted before 7 November 2002 and vested before 1 January 2005. For shares or share 
options granted after 7 November 2002 and vested after 1 January 2005 the fair value of the employee services received in exchange for the grant 
of the shares or options is recognised as an expense. The total amount to be expensed over the vesting period is determined by reference to the fair 
value of the shares or options granted. Non-market vesting conditions are included in assumptions about the number of options that are expected to 
become exercisable. At each balance sheet date, the Company revises its estimates of the number of options that are expected to become 
exercisable. It recognises the impact of the revision of original estimates, if any, in the profit and loss account and a corresponding adjustment to 
equity over the remaining vesting period.

The grant by the Company of options over its equity instruments to the employees of subsidiary undertakings in the Group is treated as a capital 
contribution. The fair value of employee services received, measured by reference to the grant date fair value, is recognised over the vesting period as 
an increase to investment in subsidiary undertakings, with a corresponding credit to equity in the parent entity financial statements.

The social security contributions payable in connection with the grant of the share options is considered an integral part of the grant itself and the 
charge is treated as a cash-settled transaction.

The shares are recognised when the options are exercised and the proceeds received allocated between called up share capital and share 
premium account.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

217

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the Company financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

II Summary of significant accounting policies continued
d) Employee benefit trust
Transactions, assets and liabilities of the Group sponsored Employee Benefit Trust are included in the Consolidated financial statements. In particular, 
the Trust’s purchases of shares in the Company remain deducted from shareholders’ funds until they vest unconditionally with employees.

F Taxation
Corporation tax is payable on taxable profits at amounts expected to be paid, or recovered, under the tax rates and laws that have been enacted or 
substantively enacted at the balance sheet date.

Deferred tax is recognised to take account of timing differences between the treatment of transactions for financial reporting purposes and their 
treatment for tax purposes. A deferred tax asset is only recognised when it is probable that there will be a suitable taxable profit from which the future 
reversal of the underlying timing differences can be deducted.

Deferred tax is measured at the average tax rates that are expected to apply in the periods in which the timing differences are expected to reverse 
based on the tax rates and laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date. Deferred tax is measured on a 
non-discounted basis.

G Investments in subsidiaries
Investments in subsidiaries are held at cost less any accumulated impairment losses. Costs incurred relating to acquisition of subsidiaries, yet to be 
completed, are included within prepayments. Upon completion, these costs are transferred to investments in subsidiaries.

H Financial instruments
The Company has chosen to adopt Sections 11 and 12 of FRS 102 in respect of financial instruments.

a) Financial assets
Basic financial instruments, including cash at bank and in hand and amounts owed by Group undertakings, are initially recognised at transaction price, 
unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted 
at a market rate of interest. Such assets are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method.

At the end of each reporting period, financial assets measured at amortised cost are assessed for objective evidence of impairment. If an asset is 
impaired, the impairment loss, which is the difference between the carrying amount and the present value of the estimated cash flows discounted at 
the asset’s original effective interest rate, is recognised in profit or loss.

Financial assets are derecognised when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the asset expire, are settled or substantially all the risks and 
rewards are transferred to another party.

b) Financial liabilities
Basic financial liabilities, including amounts owed to Group undertakings, are initially recognised at transaction price, unless the arrangement 
constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of 
interest. Such liabilities are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method.

Financial liabilities are derecognised when the liability is extinguished, that is when the contractual obligation is discharged, cancelled or expires.

I Called up share capital, share premium and dividend distribution
Ordinary shares are classified as equity. Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares or options are shown in equity as a 
deduction, net of tax, from the proceeds.

Dividend distribution to the Company’s shareholders is recognised as a liability in the Company’s financial statements in the period in which the 
dividends are approved by the Company’s shareholders. Interim dividends are recognised when declared.

J Related party transactions
The Company discloses transactions with related parties which are not wholly owned within the same group. It does not disclose transactions with 
members of the same group that are wholly owned.

III Critical accounting judgements and estimation uncertainty
The Company makes an estimate of the recoverable value of investments in subsidiaries. When assessing impairment of investments management 
consider both internal and external indicators. There have been no other critical judgements made in applying the Company’s accounting policies.

IV Profit and recognised gains and losses attributable to the Company
As permitted by Section 408 of the Companies Act 2006, no separate statement of comprehensive income is presented in respect of the Company. 
The Company has also taken advantage of legal dispensation contained in S408 of the Companies Act 2006 allowing it not to publish a separate 
statement of comprehensive income.

The profit for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 for the Company was $878.7m, including dividends received of $920.0m (12 months to 
30 April 2017: loss of $41.7m).

218

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

V Dividends

Equity – ordinary
Final paid 58.33 cents (49.74 cents) per ordinary share
First Interim paid 34.60 cents (29.73 cents) per ordinary share 
Second Interim paid 58.33 cents (nil cents) per ordinary share

Total

18 months
 ended
31 October
2018
$’000
133,889
156,243
252,029

542,161

12 months
 ended
30 April
2017
$’000
111,023
66,512
–

177,535

The directors proposed a dividend in respect of the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 of 58.33 cents per share which will utilise approximately 
$249.0m of total equity. The directors have concluded that the Company has sufficient distributable reserves to pay the dividend. It has not been 
included as a liability in these financial statements as it has not yet been approved by shareholders.

VI Employees and directors
Staff costs for the Company during the 18 months to 31 October 2018:

Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Cost of employee share schemes

Total

18 months
ended
31 October
2018
$’000
7,410
(1,853)
25,207

12 months
ended
30 April
2017
$’000
3,381
4,381
6,453

30,764

14,215

The average monthly number of employees of the Company, including remunerated directors, during the period was ten (2017: nine). Nils 
Brauckmann, Stephen Murdoch and Christopher Hsu were remunerated by other Group companies. For further information on the directors of the 
Company please refer to the Remuneration Report on pages 90 to 109.

Key management personnel costs for the Company during the period
All the key management of the Company are directors and are therefore included in the Remuneration Report.

VII Share based payments
The Company has various equity-settled share-based compensation plans, details of which are provided in note 35 of the Group’s consolidated 
financial statements on pages 200 to 205. The only employees of the Company are the directors and the interests of the executive directors in share 
options are as below.

a) Incentive Plan 2005
On 27 April 2005 the remuneration committee approved the rules of the Incentive Plan 2005 (“LTIP”) which permits the granting of share options to 
executive directors and senior management. The total number of options they receive is determined by the performance criteria set by the 
remuneration committee over a three year performance period.

Awards granted on or after 18 April 2011 are subject to either Absolute Shareholder Returns (“ASR”) over a three year period, cumulative EPS growth 
or a combination of both. ASR is defined as the average closing share price over the period of five days ending on the day prior to the vesting date less 
the reference price plus the total of all dividends and cash distributions and any other measures as determined by the Remuneration Committee 
between the award date and the vesting date. Where the cumulative EPS growth over a three year period is at least equal to Retail Prices Index 
(“RPI”) plus 3% per annum, 25% of awards will vest, with full vesting achieved when the cumulative EPS growth is RPI plus 9% per annum. 
Straight-line vesting will apply between these points. RPI is the general index of the UK retail prices index (for all items) published by the Office of 
National Statistics or any similar index replacing it. Where the award is subject to ASR, the resulting level of vesting will be reduced by 25% if the ASR 
is below 150 pence or increased by 50% if ASR is 300 pence or more.

Further details are provided in the remuneration committee report on pages 90 to 109.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

219

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the Company financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

VII Share based payments continued

At 1 May
Granted
Lapsed

Outstanding at 31 October/30 April

Exercisable at 31 October/30 April

18 months ended
31 October 2018

12 months ended
30 April 2017

Number of
options
’000
932
180
(73)

1,039

825

Weighted
average
exercise price
pence
–
–
–

–

–

Number of
options
’000
825
107
–

932

485

Weighted
average
exercise price
pence
–
–
–

–

–

No options were exercised during the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 and the year ended 30 April 2017.

The amount charged to the statement of comprehensive income in respect of the scheme was $4.1m for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 
(12 months ended 30 April 2017: $2.5m). In addition to this $1.5m (12 months ended 30 April 2017: $1.6m charge) was credited to the statement of 
comprehensive income in respect of national insurance on these options in the 18 months ended 31 October 2018.

Range of exercise prices
£0.00 

31 October 2018

30 April 2017

Weighted
average
exercise
price
pence
–

Number of
options
’000
1,039

Weighted
average
remaining
contractual
life (years)
5.8

–

1,039

5.8

Weighted
average
exercise
price
pence
–

–

Number of
options
’000
932

932

Weighted
average
remaining
contractual
life (years)
6.8

6.8

180,291 options were granted in the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 (12 months ended 30 April 2017: 106,418). The weighted average fair value 
of options granted during the 18 months ended 31 October 2018, as determined using the Black-Scholes valuation model, was £19.66 (12 months 
ended 30 April 2017: £20.02).

The significant inputs into the model were:

Weighted average share price at the grant date
Expected volatility
Expected dividend yield
Expected option life
Annual risk-free interest rate

18 months ended
31 October 2018
£21.65
28.59% – 48.49%
2.91% – 5.63%
2.86 – 3 years
1.00% – 1.60%

12 months ended
30 April 2017
£21.69
27.98%
2.80%
3 years
0.89%

The volatility measured at the standard deviation of continuously compounded share returns is based on statistical daily share prices over the last 
three years.

220

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

VII Share based payments continued
b) Additional Share Grants

Outstanding at 1 May 
Cancelled
Granted

Outstanding 31 October/30 April

Exercisable 31 October/30 April

18 months ended
31 October 2018

12 months ended
30 April 2017

Number of
options
’000
1,624
(2,952)
4,728

3,400

1,624

Weighted
average
exercise price
pence
–
–
–

–

–

Number of
options
’000
1,624
–
–

1,624

–

Weighted
average
exercise price
pence
–
–
–

–

–

Additional Share Grants – The Attachmate Group (“TAG”) acquisition
The Remuneration Committee awarded Additional Share Grants (“ASGs”) to a number of senior managers and executives, critical to delivering the 
anticipated results of the acquisition of The Attachmate Group, which completed on 20 November 2014. 

ASGs are nil cost options over ordinary shares. The ASGs became exercisable, subject to the satisfaction of the performance condition, on the third 
anniversary of the date of Completion or 1 November 2017, whichever is earlier (the “vesting date”) and will remain exercisable until the tenth 
anniversary of Completion.

The performance condition is that the percentage of ordinary shares subject to the ASG which may be acquired on exercise on or after the vesting 
date is as follows:

(i)  0% if the Shareholder Return Percentage (as defined below) is 50% or less;
(ii)  100% if the Shareholder Return Percentage is 100% or more; and
(iii)  A percentage determined on a straight-line basis between (i) and (ii) above.

The “Shareholder Return Percentage” will be calculated by deducting 819.425 pence per share (the “Reference Price”), being the average of the 
20 days before 3 June 2014 (being the date of the heads of agreement relating to the proposed combination of Micro Focus and Attachmate 
between Micro Focus, Wizard, Golden Gate Capital and Francisco Partners Management LP), from the sum of the “Vesting Price” (calculated as the 
average closing share price over the period of 20 days ending on the day prior to the vesting date) plus the total of all dividends per share between 
Completion and the vesting date. This will be divided by the Reference Price, multiplying the resulting figure by 100 to obtain the Shareholder 
Return Percentage.

The weighted average fair value of options granted was £4.40, after using the Monte-Carlo simulation model. The significant inputs into the model 
were weighted average share price of £11.24 at the grant date, exercise price shown above, expected volatility of 26.11%, expected dividend yield of 
3.2%, an expected option life of three years and an annual risk-free interest rate of 2.08%. The volatility measured at the standard deviation of 
continuously compounded share returns is based on statistical daily share prices over the last three years.

Additional Share Grants – The HPE Software business acquisition
The Remuneration Committee awarded a number of Additional Share Grants (“ASGs”) to a number of senior managers and executives, critical to 
delivering the anticipated results of the acquisition of the HPE Software business, which completed on 1 September 2017.

ASGs are nil cost options over ordinary shares. The ASGs will become exercisable, subject to the satisfaction of the performance condition, on the 
third anniversary of the announcement date of 7 September 2016 (the “vesting date”) and will remain exercisable for a period of 84 months 
commencing on the Vesting date.

The performance condition is that the percentage of ordinary shares subject to the ASG which may be acquired on exercise on or after the vesting 
date is as follows:

(i)  0% if the Shareholder Return Percentage (as defined below) is 50% or less;
(ii)  100% if the Shareholder Return Percentage is 100% or more; and
(iii)  A percentage determined on a straight-line basis between (i) and (ii) above.

The “Shareholder Return Percentage” will be calculated by deducting 1817.75 pence per share (the “Reference Price”), being the average of the 
20 days before 1 August 2016 (being the date of the heads of agreement relating to the proposed combination of Micro Focus and the HPE 
Software business), from the sum of the “Vesting Price” (calculated as the average closing share price over the period of 20 days ending on the day 
prior to the vesting date) plus the total of all dividends per share between the announcement date and the vesting date. This will be divided by the 
Reference Price, multiplying the resulting figure by 100 to obtain the Shareholder Return Percentage.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

221

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the Company financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

VII Share based payments continued
On 20 September 2018, the Group announced that, following a review of existing Additional Share Grant (“ASG”) awards after the announcement of 
the forthcoming SUSE sale, ASG awards made to Executive Directors on completion of the HPE Software business acquisition on 1 September 2017 
would be cancelled. New ASG awards were granted in order to align with the business plan to deliver value by October 2020 and focus Executive 
Directors on delivering significant value to shareholders over the three years from completion of the transaction. The Company believes that, in the 
light of the HPE Software business integration and the wider competitive environment evidenced by recent M&A activity in the software sector, the 
alignment of the vesting period to September 2020 is essential to provide an effective incentive over the period of the business plan.

The current Executive Directors (Kevin Loosemore and Chris Kennedy) and those who were Executive Directors at the time of the existing award and 
remain in employment (Mike Phillips) agreed to surrender their existing ASG awards made on 1 September 2017 which were due to vest on 
7 September 2019. In return, the Company has made new ASG awards over ordinary shares in the Company as detailed below, which are due to vest 
on 1 September 2020 (being three years from the completion of the transaction).

Director
Kevin Loosemore
Chris Kennedy1
Mike Phillips

Number of granted and cancelled
nil cost share options
over ordinary shares
’000
1,100
500
676

Number of replacement 
nil cost options
over ordinary share 
’000s
1,100
676
676

2,276

2,452

1 

 The share options awarded to Chris Kennedy’s replacement HPE Software ASGs will lapse as a result of his resignation and subsequent leaving employment in February 2019. This has 
been reflected in the share options disclosures.

The Total Shareholder Returns (“TSR”) performance thresholds for the new awards are unchanged from the previous awards, save in respect of the 
period to vesting, and the number of new awards is equal to the number of previous awards which they replace, except for Chris Kennedy where 
increases of 176,000 awards respectively have been made to align Chris’ awards to those granted to his predecessor. The vesting date for the new 
ASG awards is 1 September 2020.

As new ASGs have been granted to replace the original ASGs that have been cancelled, this is treated under IFRS 2 “Share-based payment” as 
modification of the original ASG grant. Due to the performance conditions attached to them, the fair value for ASGs is determined using the Monte 
Carlo simulation method. The fair value of the original awards is determined at the modification date (20 Sept 2018) i.e. replacing the original fair 
values. The incremental fair value of the new awards over the original awards at the date of modification is recognised in addition to the grant date fair 
value. The original expense continues to be recognised over the original service period, the incremental expense is recognised over the remaining 
service period for the new awards i.e. to 1 September 2020 rather than 7 September 2019.

The weighted average fair value of options granted during the period determined using the Monte-Carlo simulation model was £4.16. The significant 
inputs into the model were weighted average share price of £9.29 at the grant date, exercise price shown above, expected volatility of 26.11%, 
expected dividend yield of 3.2%, an expected option life of three years and an annual risk-free interest rate of 2.08%. The volatility measured at the 
standard deviation of continuously compounded share returns is based on statistical daily share prices over the last three years. 

The amount charged to the statement of comprehensive income in respect of the ASGs was $12.9m for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 
(12 months ended 30 April 2017: $3.8m). In addition to this $1.7m (12 months ended 30 April 2017: $2.4m) was charged to the statement of 
comprehensive income in respect of National Insurance on these share options in the 18 months ended 31 October 2018.

Range of exercise prices
£0.00

31 October 2018

30 April 2017

Weighted
average
exercise
price
pence
–

Number of
options
’000
4,076

Weighted
average
remaining
contractual
life (years)
7.7

–

4,076

7.7

Weighted
average
exercise
price
pence
–

–

Number of
options
’000
1,624

1,624

Weighted
average
remaining
contractual
life (years)
–

–

c) Sharesave Plan
In August 2006, the Company introduced the Micro Focus Sharesave Plan 2006, approved by members on 25 July 2006. The Sharesave Plan 
(“Sharesave”) is primarily for UK employees. The Sharesave provides for an annual award of options at a discount to the market price and are open 
to all eligible Group employees. Under this plan employees make monthly savings over a period of three years linked to the grant of an option over 
Micro Focus shares with an option price which can be at a discount of up to 20% of the market value of the shares on grant. The option grants are 
subject to employment conditions and continuous savings.

222

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

VII Share based payments continued

Sharesave
Outstanding at 1 May 
Exercised
Granted
Lapsed

Outstanding at 31 October/30 April

Exercisable at 31 October/30 April

18 months
ended
31 October 2018

Number of
options
’000
–
–
2
(2)

Weighted
average
exercise price
pence
–
–
1,023p
1,023p

–

–

–

–

12 months
ended
30 April 2017

Number of
options
’000
2
(2)
–
–

–

–

Weighted
average
exercise price
pence
598p
598p
–
–

–

–

The amount charged to the statement of comprehensive income in respect of the Sharesave scheme was $5,000 for the 18 months ended 
31 October 2018 (12 months ended 30 April 2017: $nil).

The weighted average fair value of options granted in the Sharesave schemes during the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 determined using the 
Black-Scholes valuation model was £3.19. The significant inputs into the model were weighted average share price of £10.23 at the grant date, 
exercise price shown above, expected volatility of 48.60%, expected dividend yield of 6.16%, an expected option life of three years and an annual 
risk-free interest rate of 1.30%. The volatility measured at the standard deviation of continuously compounded share returns is based on statistical 
daily share prices over the last three years.

VIII Investments

Cost and net book value:
At 1 May 2017
Additions
Disposals

At 31 October 2018

$’000

328,556
6,567,629
(6,514,170)

382,015

The additions of $6,567.6m relate to capital contributions arising from share-based payments of $53.4m (30 April 2017: $16.3m) and an investment 
in a subsidiary of the HPE Software business of $6,514.2m (30 April 2017: $nil). The disposals in the period related to the sale of the investment in 
the HPE Software business to another Group Company (30 April 2017: $nil). During the period, the Company transferred its investment in 
Micro Focus Midco Limited to another Group Company, Micro Focus Midco Holdings Limited.

The directors believe that the carrying value of the investments is supported by their underlying net assets.

During the period, dividends of $920.0m were declared by the Company’s subsidiary, Micro Focus Midco Holdings Limited, and recorded as income 
from shares in Group undertakings. $580.0m of this dividend has been settled in the period with the remaining $340.0m expected to be settled in 
the next 12 months.

A full list of subsidiary undertakings, joint ventures and associates at 31 October 2018 is included in note 13 of the Group financial statements. 
Only Micro Focus Midco Holdings Limited is directly owned by the Company with all other subsidiaries being indirectly owned.

IX Debtors

Amounts owed by Group undertakings
Prepayments 

Total

The amounts owed by Group undertakings are unsecured, interest free and repayable on demand.

31 October
2018
$’000
7,620,506
4,507

30 April
 2017
$’000
1,215,473
2,998

7,625,013

1,218,471

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

223

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Notes to the Company financial statements
for the 18 months ended 31 October 2018 continued

X Creditors: amounts falling due within one year

Amounts owed to Group undertakings
Other creditors including taxation and social security
Accruals 

Total

The amounts owed to Group undertakings are unsecured, interest free and repayable on demand.

XI Financial instruments
The Company has the following financial instruments:

Financial assets measured at amortised cost
Amounts owed by Group undertakings

Total

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost
Amounts owed to Group undertakings
Accruals

Total

31 October
2018
$’000
195,273
175
70,962

266,410

30 April
2017
$’000
33,033
112
39,045

72,190

31 October
2018
$’000

30 April
2017
$’000

7,623,013

1,215,473

7,623,013

1,215,473

195,273
70,962

266,235

33,033
39,045

72,078

XII Called up share capital and share premium account
Information on share capital is provided in note 31 of the Group financial statements. Information on share premium is provided in note 32 of the 
Group financial statements. At 31 October 2018 9,858,205 treasury shares were held (30 April 2017: nil).

XIII Contingent liabilities
The Company has guaranteed certain contracts in the normal course of business and bank borrowings of its subsidiaries.

XIV Related party transactions
The Company has taken advantage of the exemption under FRS 102 paragraph 33.1A, from disclosing transactions with other wholly-owned 
members of the Group headed by Micro Focus International plc. There are no related party transactions or other external related parties.

XV Controlling party
The Company is the ultimate controlling party of the Micro Focus International plc Group.

XVI Post balance sheet events
Please refer to note 41 in the Group’s consolidated financial statements.

224

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Additional information

226
230
231
232

Offices worldwide
Historical summary
Key dates and share management
Company information

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

225

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Germany – Boeblingen
Herrenberger Straße 140
Boeblingen
Baden-Wurttemberg
71034
T: 49-211-5631-0

Ireland – Galway
Block 2 Parkmore
East Business Park
Galway
Ireland
T: 353 91 782 600

Offices worldwide

Europe & Middle East
Austria – Linz
DonauCentre
Haupstrasse 4-10
Linz 4040
Austria
T: 43 70 33 66 94 0

Austria – Wien
Gusshausstrasse 23/Top 18
A-1040 Wien
Austria
T:43 1 236 9317

Austria – Vienna
Vienna Opera New Business Ctr
Kaerntner Ring 5-7, 7th Floor
Vienna 1010
Austria
T: 43 70 33 66 94 0

Belgium – Diegem
Brussels Airport
Pegasuslaan 5
Brussels 1831
Belgium
T: 32 27007088

Bulgaria – Sofia
76A James Bourchier Blvd
Lozenetz
Sofia 1407
Bulgaria
T: 359 2 987 78 80

Bulgaria – Sofia
Business Park Sofia
Building 10
Sofia 1766
Bulgaria
T: 359 2 987 78 80

Czech Republic – Prague
Corso II
Krizikova 148/34
Prague 8
18600
Czech Republic
T: 420 2 840 84000

Czech Republic – Prague
Za Brumlovkou 5/1559
Prague 4
140 00
Czech Republic
T: 420 2 840 84000

Denmark – Ballerup
Lautruphoej 1-3
Ballerup
Capital
2750
Denmark
T: 45 45160020

Finland – Espoo
Iso Omena Business Centre
Puolikkotie 8
Espoo
Uusimaa
02230
T: 358 923 11 3422

France – Grenoble
5 ave Raymond Chanas
1st Floor (Bldg GRE04)
Grenoble 38053
France
T: 33 (0)1 55 70 30 13

France – Lyon
Vaise Verrazzano
Building A, Ground floor
Lyon 69009
France
T: 33 (0)1 55 70 30 13

France – Lyon 
5 Avenue Steve biko
VilleFontaine
Lyon, Rhone, 38090
France 
T: 33 (0)1 55 70 30 13

France – Mougins
Sophia Antipolis Font del’OrmE
E Space Park, Bat 45
Mougins 6250
France
T: 33 (0)1 55 70 30 13

France – Paris
Micro Focus Sas
Tour Atlantique 22e LA Defence 9
1 Place De La Pyramide
92911 La Defense Cedex
France
T: 33 (0)1 55 70 30 13

France – Paris
20 Quai du Point-du-Jour
8th Floor
Paris 92100
France
T: 33 (0)1 55 70 30 13

France – Paris
Z.A. de Courtaboeuf
1 Avenue du Canada
Paris 91947
France
T: 33 (0)1 55 70 30 13

Germany – Dornach
Karl-Hammerschmidt-Straße 36
Dornach-Aschheim
Munich 85609
Germany
T: 49-211-5631-0

Germany – Dusseldorf 
Nördlicher Zubringer 9-11
40470 Düsseldorf
Germany
T: 49-211-5631-0

Germany – Fulda
Karlstraße 17
Fulda 36037
Germany
T: 49-211-5631-0

Germany – Hanau
Donaustraße 16
Hanau D-63452
Germany
T: 49 0 6181 189 4771

Germany – Ismaning
Frauenhofer Strasse 7
Ismaning D-85737
Germany
T: 011 49 89 42094 0

Germany – Nurnberg
Maxfeldstrasse 5
Nurnberg 90409
Germany
T: 49 911 740 53 0

Germany – Ratingen
Berliner Strasse 11
Ratingen 40880
Germany
T: 49-211-5631-0

Ireland – Dublin
Corrig Court, Corrig Road
Sandyford Industrial Estate
Sandyford
Dublin 18
Ireland
T: 353 (0) 1605 8000

Germany – Ahaus
Von-Braun-Strasse 38a
Ahaus
North Rhine-Westphalia 48683
Germany
T: 49-211-5631-0

Ireland – Galway
Parkmore East Business Park
Buliding 2, 2nd floor
Galway 
Ireland
T: 353 91 782 600

226

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Israel – Haifa Office
Matam Advanced Technology 
Centre
Andrei Sakharov ST: No 9
Building 23, Haifa 31905
Israel
T: 972 4 855 1755

Israel – Yehud
Shabazi Street 19
Building m1,m2,m3
Yehud 56100
Israel
T: 972 4 855 1755

Italy – Milan (SRL)
Viale Sarca 235
Milan 20126
Italy
T: 39 02 366 349 00

Italy – Rome
Via Achille Campanile
85 Roma
Rome
00144 Roma 
Italy
T: 39 02452 79056

Luxembourg – Luxembourg
20 Rue des Peupliers
Luxembourg L-2328
T: 44 845 600 5228

The Netherlands – Amstelveen
Startbaan 16
Amstelveen
1187 XR
The Netherlands
T: 31 202 061 431

The Netherlands – Alphen aan 
den Rijn
Raoul Wallenbergplein 23
Alphen aan den Rijn
2404 ND, The Netherlands
T: 31 172 50 55 55

The Netherlands – Rotterdam
Alexander Poort B
Marten Meesweg 99
Rotterdam 3068
The Netherlands
T: 31 10 286 4444

Northern Ireland – Belfast
Micro Focus House
2 East Bridge Street
Belfast BT1 3NQ
N. Ireland
T: 44 (0) 28 9026 0000

Norway – Oslo
Bjørvika, 7th Floor
Dronning Eufemias gt. 16
0191 Oslo 
Norway
T: 47 23 89 79 80

Poland – Wroclaw
Centrum Biurowe Globis
Ul. Powstaców lskich 7a
Wroclaw
53-332
Poland
T: 44 845 600 5228

Portugal – Lisbon 
Centro Empresarial Torres de 
Lisboa, 
Torre G 1, Andar Sala 111 
Rua Tomas da Fonseca, 1600 
Lisbon, Portugal
T: 35 121 723 0726

Romania – Bucharest 
3 George Constantinescu Street 
BOC Office Building, 4th floor
Bucharest 020339
Romania
T: 44 845 600 5228

Romania – Cluj
21 Decembrie 1989 Blvd no.77
Office Building C-D, Floor 5
Cluj- Napoca, 400604
Romania
T: 44 845 600 5228

Russian Federation – Moscow
Leningradskoe shosse 16A
block 3,
Moscow 125171
Russian Federation
T: 44 845 600 5228

Spain – Barcelona 
Calle Pallars 192-205, Edifici @
Mar, Barcelona, Barcelona, 08005
T: 34 91590 9393

Spain – Leon 
Julia Morros 1
Parque Tecnologico de Leon
Leon, 24009
Spain
T: 34 91590 9393

Spain – Madrid
Paseo de la Castellana 42, 5o
Madrid 28046
Spain
T: 34 91 781 5004

Spain – Madrid
Calle José Echegaray, 
8, Parque Empresarial Alvia
Madrid, 28230
Spain
T: 34 91590 9393

Sweden – Stockholm
Kronborgsgränd 1
164 46 Kista
Stockholm
Sweden
T: 46 8 446 83 430

Switzerland – Geneva 
Chemin Jean-Baptiste Vandelle 
3A, Lakeside Geneva Building 
Versoix
Geneva, 1290
Switzerland
T: 41 44200 4149

Switzerland – Zurich 
Merkurstrasse 14
CH-8953 Dietiken
Zurich
Switzerland, 8058
T: 41 43 5087660

Switzerland – Zurich 
Ueberlandstrasse 1
Duebendorf
Zurich, CH-8600
Switzerland
T: 41 44200 4149

UAE – Abu Dhabi
Al Hilal Bank Building,
Al Falah Street, office-318
Abu Dhabi
UAE
T: 44 845 600 5228

UAE – Dubai
Shatha Tower, Dubai Media City
12th floor office 1204-1205
Dubai
UAE
T: 44 845 600 5228

UAE – Dubai
Micro Focus Middle East FZ-LLC
Dubai Internet City
DIC Building
3rd Floor, Suite 315
Dubai, UAE
T: 44 845 600 5228

Ukraine – Kiev
13 Pimonenko Street,
Building 6A/Office 61
Kiev 04050
Ukraine
T: 38 044 58 61282

United Kingdom – Bracknell
Cain Rd, Amen Corner
Ground Floor (Bldg 1)
Bracknell
Berkshire
RG12 1HN
T: 44 845 600 5228

United Kingdom – Bristol
Aztec Centre, Suites 16-19
Aztec West, Almondsbury
Bristol
Avon
BS32 4TD
T: 44 845 600 5228

United Kingdom – Cambridge
Cambridge Business Park
Milton Road
Cambridge
Cambridgeshire
CB4 0WZ
T: 44 845 600 5228

United Kingdom – Erskine
Erskine Ferry Road
Bishopton
Erskine
Renfrewshire
PA7 5PP
T: 44 845 600 5228

United Kingdom – London
88 Wood Street
4th Floor
London
EC2V 7QT
T: 44 845 600 5228

UK – Newbury Office 
The Lawn
22-30 Old Bath Road
Newbury
Berkshire
RG14 1QN
T: 44 (0)1635 565 200

North America
US – Alpharetta
900 North Point Parkway
Alpharetta
GA 30005
USA
T: 1 877 686 9637

US – Austin
14231 Tandem Boulevard
Austin
TX 78728
USA
T: 1 877 686 9637

US – Bellingham – Washington
2925 Roeder Avenue
Suite 300
Bellingham, WA 98225
USA
T: 1 360 715 1170

US – Burlington – Massachusetts
30 Corporate Drive
Suite 130
Burlington, MA 01803-4252
USA
T: 1 978 341 5300

US – Cambridge – MA
150 Cambridgepark Drive
Suite 800
Cambridge
MA 02140
USA
T: 1 301 838-5000

US – Chicago – IL
401 North Michigan Avenue
Suite 1200
Chicago 
IL 60611
USA
T: 1 301 838-5000

US – Columbus – Indiana
4020 Goeller Boulevard
Suite D
Columbus, IN 47201 -8272
USA
T: 1 812 720 0510

US – Costa Mesa – CA
575 Anton Blvd 
Suite 510
Costa Mesa, CA, 92626
USA
T: 1 714 445 4000

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

227

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Offices worldwide
continued

US – Fort Collins – CO
3420 East Harmony Road
Building 5
Fort Collins
CO 80528
USA
T: 1 301 838-5000

US – Hillsboro
2345 NW Amberbrook Drive
Suite 200
Hillsboro, OR 97006
USA

US – Houston – Texas
515 Post Oak Boulevard
Suite 1200
Houston, TX 77027, USA
T: 1 (713) 548 1700

US – Loveland – Ohio
424 Wards Corner Road
Suite 100
Loveland, OH 45140
USA
T: 1 513 965 8030

US – McLean – VA
Tysons Dulles Plaza
1430 Spring Hill Road
McLean
VA 22101
USA
T: 1 877 686 9637

US – New York City – New York
One Penn Plaza
36th Floor
New York City, NY 10119
USA
T: 1 646 704 0042

US – Plano – Texas
5400 Legacy Drive
Plano
TX 75024
USA
T: 1 301 838-5000

US – Pleasanton – CA 
5758 W. Las Positas Blvd
Pleasanton
CA 94588
USA
T: 1 301 838-5000

US – Pittsburgh – PA 
1 Allegheny Square
Nova Tower 1, Suite 205
Pittsburgh
PA 15222
USA
T: 1 301 838-5000

US – Provo – Utah
1800 South Novell Place
Provo, UT 84606
USA
T: 1 801 861 7000

US – Rockville – MD
One Irvington Center
700 King Farm Boulevard
Suite 125
Rockville MD 20850-5736
USA
T: 1 301 838-5000

US – Roseville – CA
915 Highland Pointe Drive
Suite 250
Roseville
CA 95678
USA
T: 1 301 838-5000

US – Sunnyvale – CA
Building F, Moffett Towers
1140 Enterprise Way
Sunnyvale
CA 94089
USA
T: 1 301 838-5000

US – South Euclid – Ohio
1415 Argonne Road
Suite B
South Euclid, OH 44121-2920 
USA
T: 1 208 217 7092

US – Seattle – Washington
705 5th Avenue South
Suite 1100
Seattle, WA 98104
USA
T: 1 206 217 7500

US – Troy – MI
50 W. Big Beaver Road
Suite 500
Troy MI 48084
USA
T: 1 248.824 1661

US – Vienna – Virginia
8609 Westwood Center Drive
Suite 700,
Vienna, VA 22182 
USA
T: 1 703 663 5500

Rest of the world
Australia – Melbourne 
Level 9, 330 Collins Street 
South Yarra
Melbourne VIC 3000
Australia
T: 61 3 9825 2300

Australia – Sydney
Level 8, 76 Berry Street
North Sydney
New South Wales
2060
Australia
T: 61 2 8281 3400

Australia – Sydney
Bay 6 Reception Office 8.07
Middlemiss Street
North Sydney 
New South Wales, 2060
Australia
T: 61 2 8281 3400

Australia – Belconnen
Suites 2.1 and 2.3,
40 Cameron Avenue
Canberra
Australian Capital Territory
2616
Australia 
T: 61 2 8281 3400

Brazil – Sao Paulo 
Rua Joaquim Floriano
466-12 Andar
Office Corporate
Sao Paulo CEP 04534-002
Brazil
T: 5511 3627 0999

Brazil – Barueri 
Alphaville Jacaranda
Av. Marcos Penteado de Ulhoa
Barueri
São Paulo, 06460-040
Brazil
T: 5511 3627 0999

Canada – Toronto
Brookfield Place
161 Bay Street, 27th Floor
Toronto
Ontario
M5J 2S1
Canada
T: 1 416 203 6565

Canada – Vancouver
409 Granville Street
Suite 1700
Vancouver
British Columbia
V6C 1T2
Canada
T: 1 877 686 9637

China – Beijing
Building no1
8 Guangshun South St
Beijing
China
T: 86 10 6533 9000

China – Beijing
Unit 01-04, 14-16, 14F WestTower
World Financial Center
Beijing, 100020
China
T: 44 845 600 5228

China – Chongqing
Room 209 Innovation Building
No. 5 Ke Yuan First Road
Chongqing
China
T: 44 845 600 5228

China – Dalian
Room 301-A, No. 12 building
no 21 Software Park East Road
Dalian
Liaoning, 116023
China
T: 44 845 600 5228

China – Hong Kong
Henley Building, 21st Floor
No. 5 Queens Road
Hong Kong
China
T: 852 2588 5262

China – Shanghai
Shanghai International Finance 
Centre
Tower 2 
No 8 Century Avenue, 
Pudong District
Shanghai 200120, China
T: 86 21 6062 6267

China – Shanghai
Zhang Jiang Hi-Tech Zone
No. 799 Na Xian Road
Shanghai,
201203
China
T: 44 845 600 5228

228

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

China – Shenzhen
Unit 1201, 12/F, Tower 2
Kerry Plaza, No1 Zhongxinsi Road
Futian District
ShenZhen 518048 
China
T: 86 755 82822655

India – Mumbai
Leela Galleria, 1st floor
Andheri Kurla Road
Andheri (E), Mumbai
400 059
India
T: 91 22 6127 4180

Costa Rica – Heredia
UltraPark, Building -8
La Aurora de Heredia
San Jose
Costa Rica
T: 1 877 686 9637

India – Bangalore
Laurel Block ‘D’ 
65/2 Bagmane Tech Park
c.v. Raman Nagar
Byrasandra Post 
Bangalore 560093, India
T: 91 80 4002 2300

India – Bangalore
Bagmane Tech Park Olympia
Bangalore
Karnataka
560 093
India
T: 91 80 4002 2300

India – Bangalore
Vrindhavan Tech Village
2nd Floor, Hibiscus
Karnataka
Karnataka
560037
India
T: 91 80 4002 2300

India – Bangalore
Third floor, SY No.1
Magnolia Building
Kundalahalli village  
KR Puram, Hobli
Bangalore, Karnataka, 560066
India
T: 91 80 4002 2300

India – Chennai
Hardy Tower,
8th Floor, TRILInfopark
Chennai,
Tamil Nadu
600113
India
T: 91 80 4002 2300

Turkey – Istanbul – European 
Side
Beytem Paza, Office 545
19 Mayis Mh.
Buyukdere Caddesi 
No:22 Floor 5
Mecidiyekoy, Sisli 34381
Istanbul, Turkey

India – New Delhi
Unit 3 & 4, 1st Floor
Salcon Ras Vilas, District Center
Saket, New Delhi 110017 
India
T: 91 011 4006 4006

India – Gurgoan
Vatika City Point
10th Floor 
Mehrauli Gurgaon Road
Gurugram
Delhi
122002
India
T: 91 011 4006 4006

Japan – Tokyo 
19th Floor, Unit 1902,
9-7-1 Akasaka, Midtown Tower
Tokyo
Japan
107-6219
T: 81 3 579 78600

Japan – Nagoya 
25F Dai Nagoya Building
3-28-12 Meieki
Nagoya
Aichi
450-0002
Japan
T: 81 3 579 78600

Japan – Osaka 
Pacific Marks Nishi-Umeda 4F 
2-6-20 Umeda Kita-ku 
Osaka-shi 
Osaka, 530 0002
Japan
T: 81 3 579 78600

Korea – Seoul
Micro Focus
15F, SK Securities Building 
31 Gukjegeumyung-ro 8-gil
Seoul, 07332
Korea
T: +82 2 6484 5200

Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur
2nd Floor, Block A, HP Towers 
No.12, Jalan Gelenggang 
Kuala Lumpur
Wilayah Persekutuan 
Kuala Lumpur, 50490
Malaysia
T: 44 845 600 5228

Mexico – Guadalajara
Periferico Sur #6751
Col. Toluquilla
Tlaquepaque
Jalisco,
45610
Mexico
T: 52 55 9171 0278

New Zealand – Auckland
ANZ Centre, Level 33
23-29 Albert Street
Auckland
1010
New Zealand
T: 0800 453 170

Philippines – Taguig City
2-F Three Worlds Square
Upper Mckinley Road
Taguig
National Capital Region 
Manila 1634
Philippines
T: 1 800 1 855 0165

Puerto Rico – Aguadilla
Highway 110 N KM 5.1
Bldg 02
Aguadilla
00603
Puerto Rico
T: 1 877 686 9637

Singapore – Singapore 
1 Harbour Front Place #12-04/06
Harbour Front Tower 1
Singapore 098633
T: 65 6510 4200

Saudi Arabia – Riyadh
Nimr Al Nakheel Centre
Imam Saud Bin Abdulaziz Bin
Riyadh 11564
KSA
T: 44 845 600 5228

South Africa – Johannnesburg
Morningside Wedge Office Park
255 Rivonia Road
Morningside, Sandton 
2057, South Africa
T: 27 011 322 8300

Tunisia – Ariana
Technopole El Ghazala
Ariana 2088
Tunisia
T: 44 845 600 5228

Turkey – Istanbul – Asian Side
Palladium Ofis ve Residence 
Binasi 
Barbaros Mahallesi Halk Caddesi 
No:8/A Kat:2-3
Atasehir, 34746
Istanbul, Turkey
T: 90 216 663 60 10

Turkey – Istanbul – Asian Side
AND Plaza, Icerenkoy Mah.
Umut Sokak No: 10-12 Kat: 16
Istanbul 34752
Turkey
T: 90 216 663 60 10

Turkey – Istanbul – European 
Side
Beytem Paza, Office 521
19 Mayis Mh.
Buyukdere Caddesi 
No:22 Floor 5
Mecidiyekoy, Sisli 34381
Istanbul, Turkey
T: 44 845 600 5228

Taiwan – Taipei
Room B, 26th Floor
216 Sec 2, Dunhua South Road
Taipei, Taiwan R.O.C 106
China
T: 886 223760000

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

229

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Historical summary

Summarised Group consolidated statement of comprehensive income

Continuing operations
Revenue
Cost of sales

Gross Profit
Selling and distribution costs
Research and development expenses
Administrative expenses

Operating profit
Finance costs
Finance income

Profit before tax
Taxation

Profit from continuing operations
Discontinued operations

Profit before tax

Continued operations

Earnings per share
Basic (cents)
Diluted (cents)

Discontinued operation

Earnings per share
Basic (cents)
Diluted (cents)

1  The comparatives for the 12 months to 30 April 2017 have been restated to reflect the divestiture of the SUSE business segment.

Summarised Group consolidated statement of financial position as at 30 October

Non-current assets
Current assets
Current liabilities
Non-current liabilities

Total equity

230

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

18 months 
ended
31 October 
2018
$’000
4,754,398
(1,259,306)

3,495,092
(1,670,000)
(659,413)
(788,855)

376,824
(350,366)
7,654

34,112
673,081

707,193
76,940

784,133

Restated1
12 months 
ended
30 April 
2017
$’000
1,077,273
(216,412)

860,861
(363,133)
(122,824)
(147,512)

227,392
(96,824)
979

131,547
(7,464)

124,083
33,720

157,803

181.91
176.92

54.17
52.31

19.79
19.25

14,71
14.20

31 October 
2018
$’000
13,720,467
3,060,088
(2,448,090)
(6,540,485)

30 April 
2017
$’000
3,995,511
442,193
(944,697)
(1,879,517)

7,791,980

1,613,490

Key dates and share management

Key dates for 2019

Annual General Meeting
Dividend payments
Final dividend payable – 18 months ended 31 October 2018
Interim dividend payable – six months ending 30 April 2019
Final dividend – year ending 31 October 2019

Results announcements
Interim results – six months ending 30 April 2019
Final results – year ending 31 October 2019

Managing your shares

29 March 2019

5 April 2019
August 2019
March/April 2020

July 2019
January 2020

Share dealing services
Shareview dealing is a telephone and internet service provided by Equiniti 
and provides a simple and convenient way of buying and selling Micro 
Focus International plc shares.

Shareholder enquiries
Equiniti maintain the register of members of the Company. If you have any 
queries concerning your shareholding, or if any of your details change, 
please contact the Registrars:

Log on to www.shareview.co.uk/dealing or call 0845 603 7037 between 
8.30am and 4.30pm Monday to Friday, for more information about this 
service and for details of the rates and changes.

ShareGift
ShareGift is a charity share donation scheme for shareholders, 
administered by The Orr Mackintosh Foundation. It is especially for those 
who may wish to dispose of a small number of shares whose value makes 
it uneconomical to sell on a commission basis.

Equiniti Limited
Aspect House
Spencer Road
Lancing
West Sussex
BN99 6DA

Telephone: 0371 384 2734
Fax: 0371384 2100

Further information can be obtained at www.sharegift.org.uk or 
from Equiniti.

Textphone for shareholders with hearing
difficulties: 0371 384 2255

Equiniti also offer a range of shareholder information online at  
www.shareview.co.uk.

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

231

01 Overview 14 Strategic report68 Corporate governance 116 Consolidated financial statements and notes213 Company financial statements and notes225 Additional information Company information

Directors
Kevin Loosemore
(Executive Chairman)

Stephen Murdoch
(Chief Executive Officer)

Chris Kennedy
(Chief Financial Officer)

Karen Slatford
(Senior independent non-executive director)

Richard Atkins
(Independent non-executive director)

Amanda Brown
(Independent non-executive director)

Darren Roos
(Independent non-executive director)

Silke Scheiber
(Independent non-executive director)

Lawton Fitt
(Independent non-executive director)

Company Secretary, Registered and Head Office
Jane Smithard
The Lawn
22-30 Old Bath Road
Newbury
Berkshire RG14 1QN
United Kingdom

www.microfocus.com
Registered in England number 5134647

Legal advisors
Travers Smith LLP
10 Snow Hill
London EC1A ZAL
United Kingdom

Independent auditors
KPMG LLP
15 Canada Square
London
E14 5GL
United Kingdom

Registrars
Equiniti Limited
Aspect House
Spencer Road
Lancing
West Sussex BN99 6DA
United Kingdom
www.shareview.co.uk

Brokers
Numis Securities Limited
The London Stock Exchange Building
10 Paternoster Square
London EC4M 7LT
United Kingdom

232

Micro Focus International plc Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Forward-looking statements
Certain statements contained in this Annual Report and Accounts, 
including those under the captions entitled Executive Chairman’s 
statement, Chief Executive’s Strategic Review, Chief Financial Officer’s 
Report, Directors’ report, Corporate governance report and Remuneration 
Report constitute “forward-looking statements”, including, without 
limitation, those regarding the Company’s financial condition, business 
strategy, plans and objectives. These forward-looking statements can be 
identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the terms 
“believes”, “estimates”, “anticipates”, “expects”, “intends”, “may”, “will” or 
“should” or, in each case, their negative or other variations or comparable 
terminology. Such forward-looking statements involve known and 
unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause the 
actual results, performance or achievements of the Company, or industry 
results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or 
achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. 
Such forward looking-statements are based on numerous assumptions 
regarding the Company’s present and future business strategies and the 
environment in which the Company will operate in the future. Such risks, 
uncertainties and other factors include, among others: the level of 
expenditure committed to development and deployment applications by 
organisations; the level of deployment-related revenue expected by the 
Company; the degree to which organisations adopt web-enabled 
services; the rate at which large organisations mitigate applications from 
the mainframe environment; the continued use and necessity of the 
mainframe for business critical applications; the degree of competition 
faced by Micro Focus; growth in the information technology services 
market; general economic and business conditions, particularly in the 
United States; changes in technology and competition; and the 
Company’s ability to attract and retain qualified personnel. These 
forward-looking statements are made by the directors in good faith 
based on the information available to them at the time of their approval 
of this Annual Report. Except as required by the Financial Conduct 
Authority, or by law, the Company does not undertake any obligation 
to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statement, whether as 
a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Design and production:
Gather +44 (0)20 7610 6140 
www.gather.london

The paper used in this Report is  
derived from sustainable sources.

Micro Focus International plc

The Lawn  
22-30 Old Bath Road 
Newbury  
Berkshire RG14 1QN  
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0) 1635 565200  
Fax: +44 (0) 1635 33966  
www.microfocus.com
Registered No. 5134647