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Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
Contents
Corporate Directory
Chief Executive’s Report
Directors’ Report
Corporate Governance Statement
Financial Statements
Statements of Comprehensive Income
Statements of Financial Position
Statements of Changes in Equity
Statements of Cash Flows
Notes to the Financial Statements
Independent Auditors’ Report
Additional Information
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The Board of Directors is pleased to present
the Annual Report of Neuren Pharmaceuticals
Limited for the year ended 31 December 2010,
authorised by it on 30 March 2011.
For, and on behalf of, the Board
Dr Robin Congreve
Chairman
Dr Trevor Scott
Director
30 March 2011
Company
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
ARBN 111 496 130
Corporate Head Office
Level 2, 57 Wellington Street,
Freemans Bay, Auckland, New Zealand
Tel: +64 9 3700 200
Australian Registered Office
Level 13, 122 Arthur Street,
North Sydney, NSW 2060, Australia
Tel: +61 2 9956 8500
Directors
Dr Robin Congreve
Dr John Holaday
Dr Graeme Howie
Dr Trevor Scott
Dr Douglas Wilson
Company Secretary
Mr Robert Waring
Auditors
PricewaterhouseCoopers
188 Quay Street
Private Bag 92162
Auckland, New Zealand
Share Registry
Link Market Services Limited
Level 9, 333 Collins Street
Melbourne, Victoria 3000
Australia
Tel: +61 3 9615 9800
Fax: +61 3 9615 9900
Stock Exchange Listing
ASX Limited
ASX Code: NEU
Website
www.neurenpharma.com
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
Chief Executive’s Report
During 2010, we concentrated our resources and energies on the NNZ-2566 program for traumatic brain
injury (TBI) in collaboration with the US Army; the Motiva® program for post-stroke psychiatric indications;
the research and development activities of Perseis Therapeutics, our oncology subsidiary; and pursuing
additional opportunities for NNZ-2566. We accomplished a number of key milestones including:
•
Successful initiation of the INTREPID-2566 Phase 2 trial of NNZ-2566 in patients with moderate to
severe TBI
• Additional support from the US Army for the NNZ-2566 program bringing the total commitment to
approximately US$22.8 million
• Completion of the Phase 1 safety and pharmacokinetics trial of NNZ-2566 in female volunteers
•
Initiation of the oral formulation development program for NNZ-2566 for treatment of mild TBI and
other indications
•
•
•
Initiation of reproductive toxicology studies and other safety studies of NNZ-2566
Establishment of a research collaboration on NNZ-2566 with the Rett Syndrome Research Trust
Initiation of the Phase 2 trial of Motiva® to treat apathy in stroke patients at the University of
Western Australia
• Award of a NZ$250,000 grant to Perseis to enable expansion of the antibody discovery program
•
Issuance of several important patents and significant progress on key patent applications
NNZ-2566 Development Program
The NNZ-2566 program progressed dramatically during 2010. The first clinical trial site at the University of
Miami became active in late April and enrolled the first patient in early June. By the end of the year, 11 sites
had been activated. At this point, all patients who have been enrolled in the study have survived the injury
and most have been discharged from intensive care. Including both the Phase 1 safety studies and the
Phase 2 trial, NNZ-2566 has now been administered to approximately 80 people with no drug-related serious
adverse events (SAEs) reported in any of the trials. To this point, the drug has been well-tolerated and the
excellent safety profile developed in preclinical studies appears to be carrying over to humans as well.
Because of the absence of reported drug-related SAEs in the Phase 2 trial thus far, the independent Data
Safety and Monitoring Committee (DSMC) is recommending that the clinical trial protocol be amended to
accelerate the interim safety review of the first cohort with data on the first twenty-four patients rather than
the first 30 patients as initially planned. Providing that no safety concerns emerge following this review, the
DSMC recommendation includes immediate progression to the next higher dose cohort following
completion of enrolment into cohort 1. The protocol amendment incorporating these updates is presently
being prepared for regulatory submission together with the DSMC letter of recommendation.
Patient enrolment had been expected to begin slowly and to ramp up as new sites were added and study
investigators became more familiar with the protocol. At this point, however, the rate at which enrolment is
increasing is below expectations. Twenty-four patients have been enrolled to date. This slower than
anticipated pace has resulted primarily from competing clinical trials (two large trials of progesterone in TBI
patients) and the challenge of obtaining informed consent from a family member (Legally Authorised
Representative—LAR) within the established time window. To date, approximately 40% of otherwise eligible
patients were not enrolled due to the unavailability of an LAR. Only four eligible patients have not been
enrolled because an LAR declined. In response, the Company is increasing the total number of sites from 12
to 18, expanding the eligible age range from 18-70 years to 16-75 years, and seeking exception from
informed consent (EFIC) under FDA and Institutional Review Board (IRB) guidance documents. EFIC will
allow investigators to enrol patients if an LAR is not present prior to the scheduled start of drug
administration. Approximately 15% of patients screened have been between 16-18 or 70-75 years old.
Three new sites in the US are nearing activation and five centres in Australia have been selected to
participate. The costs associated with increasing the number of participating clinical centres and obtaining
EFIC will be covered by an additional US$1.6 million in incremental funding from the US Army. This brings
the total commitment to approximately US$22.8 million.
The Phase 1 safety and PK study in females reinforced the excellent safety profile of NNZ-2566 and
confirmed the ability of the buffer solution to avoid infusion site reactions. With successful completion of the
Phase 1 safety and PK study in females, we submitted a revised protocol to the FDA, the US Army’s Human
Research Protection Office (HRPO) and Neuren’s IRB to include female patients in the trial. The amended
protocol has been accepted by FDA and approved by the Company’s IRB and we expect to begin enrolling
female patients shortly. Approximately 25% of patients screened in the study have been female. We are
confident that the measures outlined above will significantly increase the pace of enrolment to at least that
of the original plan. We are now forecasting that enrolment will be completed and results announced by no
later than the end of 2012.
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Neuren also has initiated an oral formulation development program for NNZ-2566. In a published paper by
Neuren scientists and colleagues1, NNZ-2566 administered orally three hours following an experimental
stroke in rats significantly reduced brain damage. The Company previously had planned to develop a
microemulsion for the drug however, in studies conducted in late 2010 and completed in early 2011, we
found that a simple water-based (aqueous) formulation provides superior blood levels of the drug sooner
after administration and is not affected by food intake. This is a very important development for a number of
reasons:
• An aqueous product can be shipped and stored as a powder for reconstitution with water which will
make it more suitable for use outside of a hospital as well as reduce manufacturing costs and
improve shelf life.
• Development and validation of an aqueous formulation will require less time and lower R&D
expenditures.
•
• Because NNZ-2566 is highly soluble in water, the total volume per dose will be lower which should
reduce the risk of nausea and vomiting that can be a problem for patients with mild TBI and other
neurological conditions.
The bridging toxicology studies will be simpler, focused predominantly on gastrointestinal effects,
and the overall toxicity profile for an oral form will largely be defined by data already submitted to
the FDA from previously completed intravenous studies.
Simple aqueous solutions are generally more suitable for formulation into a solid dosage form such
as tablets or capsules.
•
We are currently planning to complete the required toxicology and Phase 1 safety/PK studies for the oral
formulation by Q4 2011 and to submit a protocol for a Phase 2 clinical trial in patients with mild TBI in late
2011. This Phase 2 trial is currently being designed in coordination with an advisory committee comprising
academic experts and regulatory advisors and including input from US Army neuroscientists. Mild TBI
represents a serious public health problem and a very large market with more than 800,000 cases per year in
the US alone. With more than 70% of military TBI classified as mild, it also is a very high priority for the US
Army which has provided US$2.9 million in additional funding to support the oral development program. An
oral formulation for use in patients with mild TBI also would be applicable to other indications where oral
dosing is preferred. These might include Rett Syndrome and other autism spectrum disorders, prophylactic
neuroprotection following a stroke or transient ischaemic attack and prevention of hearing loss caused by
chemotherapy or certain antibiotics.
The FDA has indicated that with sufficiently positive results from the current Phase 2 trial, the Company
could apply for approval of NNZ-2566 as a new drug after a single Phase 3 trial. The Company has begun
work on the studies and other tasks that will be necessary to initiate the Phase 3 trial. These include
additional safety pharmacology studies, reproductive toxicology studies and a cardiovascular safety study.
Funding for these activities is included in the grant from the US Army. The additional safety studies include
analysis of protein binding, liver enzyme (Cytochrome P-450) inhibition and interaction with transporter
molecules. The safety studies have all been completed and confirm that there are no safety or toxicity
related concerns in these areas. The reproductive toxicology studies in animals are scheduled to be initiated
later this year.
Undertaking these studies in parallel with the Phase 2 trials has enabled us to develop a plan to accelerate
late-stage clinical development with the goal of initiating the Phase 3 trial almost immediately following the
Phase 2, if the results from the Phase 2 trial are positive, with most of the regulatory requirements for the
Phase 3 trial already met. The Company is engaged in discussions with potential partners and expects that
the outcome of those discussions will become clear around the time that the Phase 2 trial is completed. We
believe that the accelerated clinical development strategy adds significant value to the program even before
the Phase 3 study commences. Our plan is to evaluate NNZ-2566 as an intravenous treatment for moderate
to severe TBI concurrently with oral administration of the drug in patients with mild TBI. To the best of our
knowledge, this is the first program to address TBI as a single indication across all degrees of severity. Mild
and moderate TBI represent the vast majority of cases and often are associated with significant cognitive
and other disabilities.
The preclinical and Phase 1 safety studies with NNZ-2566 that led to approval of the IND and the current trial
also enable potential use of the drug in conditions unrelated to TBI. One such indication is Rett Syndrome, a
very severe and the most physically disabling form of the autism spectrum disorders. There is no approved
drug for Rett Syndrome which occurs in approximately 1 of 10,000 female children worldwide. Rett
Syndrome is caused by a mutation in a gene designated MeCP2. Different mutations in that gene also are
believed to be associated with other autism spectrum and related developmental disorders. Researchers at
the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have discovered that the n-terminal tripeptide of IGF-1
1 Bickerdike et al. NNZ-2566: A Gly-Pro-Glu analogue with neuroprotective efficacy in a rat model of acute focal stroke.
Journal of the Neurological Sciences 2009.
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(Glypromate) partially reverses symptoms in a mouse model of Rett Syndrome2. Any treatment for Rett
Syndrome in humans would be life long and an oral formulation would clearly be the most desirable means
of administering a drug. Since NNZ-2566 is an analogue of Glypromate and has been shown to be orally
available and active, we are presently evaluating whether NNZ-2566 offers promise as a therapy for Rett
Syndrome. To that end, we established a research collaboration with the Rett Syndrome Research Trust
(RSRT; http://rsrt.org) to evaluate NNZ-2566 in an established mouse model. This evaluation is being
conducted at no cost to Neuren and we retain all rights to the use of NNZ-2566 in this field. Preliminary
results from a single dose study have shown an improvement in survival and long-term potentiation, a
measure of signal transmission between neurons that is associated with memory. If these results are
confirmed and once the most effective dose has been identified, the Company will seek to develop NNZ-
2566 for Rett Syndrome with grant funding or through a commercial partnership. We are in active
discussions with a number of third parties concerning establishment of a collaborative or licensing
agreement.
Motiva®
In late 2007, Neuren acquired rights to Motiva® through the purchase of Hamilton Pharmaceuticals.
Motiva®, or nefiracetam, is a small molecule that belongs to a class of compounds called acetams, which
includes approved drugs with sales of approximately €1 billion in 2010. Motiva® has already been tested in
over 1,700 patients in Phase 1, 2 and 3 trials in Japan, the US and Canada and has an excellent safety profile.
Motiva® has shown efficacy in a range of neuropsychiatric outcomes in six Phase 2 and 3 trials in post-
stroke patients. In a Phase 2b trial in patients with post-stroke depression conducted in the US and Canada
under a US IND, a very significant effect was observed in patients who also were diagnosed with apathy
using the validated Apathy Scale (51.1% of patients)3 . The trial was the first randomised, placebo-controlled
study to show a significant effect of a pharmacologic intervention on apathy. The most severely depressed
patients also showed a significant improvement in depressive symptoms although the effect across all
patients was not statistically significant4.
Apathy is a dysmotivational syndrome that manifests as a lack of interest, feeling, emotion or concern.
Symptoms include diminished initiation and poor persistence of activity, lack of interest, indifference, low
social engagement and blunted emotional responses. Although apathy has long been documented in the
medical literature, due to accelerating research in the 1990s, it is now becoming widely recognized as a
common neuropsychiatric disorder distinguishable from cognitive disorders such as dementia and mood
disorders such as depression in much the same way that depression and anxiety have become diagnosable
and pharmacologically addressable disorders. Apathy frequently occurs in patients who have had a stroke or
traumatic brain injury as well as in those with chronic progressive neurodegenerative conditions such as
Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Apathy also complicates a broad range of other CNS conditions
including depression, schizophrenia, brain tumors and infection. Taken together, it has been estimated that
Apathy Syndrome affects some 10 million people in the US alone.
Patient Population Prevalence of Apathy
Stroke 35%
Traumatic Brain Injury 50%
Alzheimer's disease 55%
Cognitive Impairment 40%
Major Depression 20%
Schizophrenia 67%
Parkinson's disease 40%
Source: BioStrategies, 2005 (prepared for Hamilton Pharmaceuticals)
Apathy can have a devastating impact on social and occupational function. With moderate to severe apathy,
patients become unable to conduct activities of daily living involving basic functions like bathing, dressing,
eating, getting in or out of bed or chairs, walking and using the toilet. The clinical consequences of apathy
result in longer hospitalizations, poorer rehabilitation outcomes, greater disability, earlier institutionalization
and increased caregiver stress. Not surprisingly, apathy has been associated with both a poor outcome of
illness and a poor response to treatment. The economic and emotional consequences of apathy are
burdensome not only to patient and caregiver but also to society. During the past two decades, generally
accepted diagnostic criteria have evolved for apathy. Apathy rating scales have also been created and
2 Tropea et al. Partial reversal of Rett Syndrome-like symptoms in MeCP2 mutant mice. Proceedings of the National
Academy of Sciences 2009.
3 Robinson et al. Double-blind treatment of apathy in patients with post-stroke depression using nefiracetam. Journal of
Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences 2009.
4 Robinson et al. Double-blind randomized treatment of post-stroke depression using nefiracetam. Journal of
Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences 2008.
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Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
validated in various neurological and psychiatric populations, including major depression, Alzheimer’s
disease, stroke and Parkinson’s disease.
for
this disorder. At present, some physicians use stimulants
Despite the high prevalence of apathy, current treatment options are limited, as there are no FDA-approved
drugs
(methylphenidate and
dextroamphetamine) off-label despite limited evidence of efficacy. Dopamine agonists have also been
proposed for the treatment of apathy, especially in Parkinson’s disease patients, but again with limited data
and no randomized, placebo-controlled trials. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors have been used to treat apathy
in patients with Alzheimer’s disease, albeit with little if any documented success. Commonly occurring
adverse effects further limit use of these drugs.
In March 2010, we announced that a Phase 2 trial of Motiva® in 122 patients with post-stroke apathy had
been funded by a grant to Prof. Sergio Starkstein, MD, PhD, Winthrop Professor and Head of the
Neuropsychiatry Unit at Fremantle Hospital, Perth. The grant was awarded by the National Health and
Medical Research Council (Australia) and covers virtually all costs associated with the study. From existing
supplies of drug and placebo, we confirmed the stability of the product, re-packaged it for storage and
distribution by the hospital pharmacy and shipped the drug to the University of Western Australia for use in
the trial. The study has now been initiated and patients are being actively recruited and enrolled. A second
clinical centre in Western Australia is in the process of initiating patient recruitment as well. If this study
confirms the robust effect of Motiva® on post-stroke apathy, the Company believes that it will have an
opportunity to enter into a beneficial commercial partnership to complete the pivotal trials necessary for
registration of the drug for that indication.
Cancer Research Programs
The Trefoil Factor (TFF) and Growth Hormone (GH) programs targeting breast and other cancers were
assigned to Perseis Therapeutics, a Neuren subsidiary jointly established with the New Zealand Breast
Cancer Research Trust (BCRT) in 2009. With initial funding of NZ$1.18 million from the BCRT, Perseis
initiated a program to develop and test monoclonal antibodies against a range of cancers, focusing
predominantly on TFF-1 and TFF-3. Trefoil Factors are estrogen-regulated proteins secreted by cancer cells
that act as growth factors in a number of cancers, promoting growth and spread of tumours. TFF-1 is
expressed in up to 68% of breast cancers and its expression is negatively associated with survival in patients
with metastatic disease. TFF-3 is strongly associated with tamoxifen resistance and inhibition of TFF-3 has
been shown to be effective in treating tamoxifen resistant breast cancer cells in culture. Among patients
treated with tamoxifen, survival is highly correlated with the level of TFF-3 expression. Tamoxifen is a widely
used drug that blocks the growth-promoting effects of estrogen and is the world’s leading hormonal drug for
the treatment of breast cancer. Between 25% and 35% of women who take tamoxifen to prevent the
recurrence of breast cancer fail to respond to the drug. This phenomenon creates a significant need and
opportunity for a product that can reduce or prevent tamoxifen resistance.
In March 2010, we announced that a NZ$250,000 grant was awarded to Perseis by the New Zealand
Foundation for Research, Science and Technology to support the trefoil factor program. That additional
funding has enabled Perseis to expand the scope of its research which has included antibody discovery at
three separate institutions in Australia, Singapore and China as well as screening against a phage display
library of fully human antibody fragments. Antibodies are first screened in vitro against established breast,
gastric and other cancer cell lines to select the most promising molecules. The lead antibodies then will be
evaluated in animal models of cancer to validate the proof of concept of targeting TFFs as a cancer therapy.
Once lead molecules have been selected and definitive proof of concept has been obtained, Perseis will
have the option of seeking a partnership or continuing development on its own. Perseis is actively engaged
in business development activities designed to raise the awareness of its targets and programs among
potential partners. These efforts will be accelerated as we move toward the selection of lead molecules.
Perseis is presently screening anti-TFF-1 and anti-TFF-3 murine monoclonal antibodies as well as anti-TFF-1
and anti-TFF-2 antibodies from a library of fully human antibodies against multiple cancer cell lines. In
preparation for in vivo testing, Perseis has established a contract with a US-based specialty R&D contract
research organization, Aragen, which is finalizing the experimental methods for the in vivo studies and also is
confirming the in vitro screening results.
Intellectual Property
Recent actions by a number of patent granting agencies have significantly expanded and strengthened our
intellectual property portfolio. These include:
• U.S. Patent No. 7,605,177 entitled Effects of Glycyl-2-MethylProlyl-L-Glutamic Acid on
Neurodegeneration. The patent is directed to the method of treating neurological injury caused by
traumatic brain injury (TBI) using NNZ-2566. The patent also covers a method for reducing a seizure
induced by traumatic brain injury.
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• U.S. Patent No. 7,714,020 entitled Treatment of Non-Convulsive Seizures in Brain Injury Using
Glycyl-L-2-Methyl-L-Glutamic Acid. The patent is directed to the method of treating brain injury
using NNZ-2566, where an EEG pattern characteristic of a non-convulsive seizure (NCS) is present.
• Canadian Patent No. 2,457,982 entitled Use of nefiracetam for treating neurodegeneration and
Canadian Patent No. 2,368,352 entitled Method for treating neurodegeneration, granted on 10
November 2009. The patents relate to the use of nefiracetam (Motiva®) in the treatment of
neurodegeneration (including post-stroke neurodegeneration), improving activities of daily living
(ADL) in post-stroke patients, or for recovery of a post-stroke patient.
• Canadian Patent No. 2,433,039 entitled Agent for therapeutic and prophylactic treatment of
neuropathic pain. The patent covers the treatment of neuropathic pain with a drug comprising a
pyrrolidinedione compound (e.g. nefiracetam). The therapeutic indications include neuropathic
cancer pain, post-herpetic neuralgia, diabetic neuropathy, neuropathic pain in multiple sclerosis,
neuropathic pain in AIDS, phantom limb pain and others.
• U.S. Patent No. 7,608,636 entitled Medicines for treatment and prevention of neurogenic pain. The
patent is directed to the method for treating neuropathic pain with nefiracetam. The therapeutic
indications
include neuropathic cancer pain, post-herpetic neuralgia, diabetic neuropathy,
neuropathic pain in multiple sclerosis, neuropathic pain in AIDS, phantom limb pain and others.
• NZ Patent No. 556158 covers the use of a TFF1 inhibitor for inhibiting proliferation and/or survival
of a tumour or for treating or preventing cancer or a cell proliferation and/or survival disorder. The
inhibitor can be anti-TFF1 antibodies, iRNAs inhibiting expression of TFF1 or peptide antagonists of
TFF1 protein.
• U.S. Pat. No. 7,776,876 entitled Cyclic G-2-allylProline in Treatment of Parkinson's Disease. The
patent covers the composition of NNZ-2591 or a salt or stereoisomer of NNZ-2591. The patent is
also directed to treatment of Parkinson’s disease and an abnormality of neurological function (e.g.
motor or cognitive abnormality) with NNZ-2591.
• U.S. Pat. No. 7,887,839 entitled Oral Formulations of G2MePE. The patent covers a broad scope of
claims for various oral formulations of NNZ-2566.
Financial Position
Grant income of $6,122,000 in 2010 was virtually unchanged from that received in 2009 and, apart from a
one-time R&D tax credit of $288,000 in 2009, related to funding for the NNZ-2566 Phase 2 trial from the US
Army to cover direct costs associated with the trial in both years. The Company periodically requests and
receives in advance funding instalments to meet trial costs expected to arise within the next one or two
months. This process will continue through the course of the Phase 2 trial.
With the commencement of start-up activities for the NNZ-2566 Phase 2 trial in mid-2009 and ongoing grant
funding from the US Army, research and development activity costs increased from $3,969,000 in 2009 to
$9,241,000 in 2010 as the Phase 2 trial moved to being fully underway. This and the non-cash expense of
$923,000 for options issued under the employee share option plan largely accounted for the change from a
small income after tax and minority interest in 2009 of $123,000 to an after tax and minority interests loss of
$6,445,000 in 2010.
At 31 December 2010 Neuren had $1,956,000 in cash deposits, and a minimum of A$720,000 remained
available for draw down under its convertible loan facility in monthly tranches of A$60,000.
Mr Larry Glass
Chief Executive Officer
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Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
Directors’ Report
Principal Activities
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited (Neuren or the Company, and its subsidiaries, or the Group) is a publicly
listed biopharmaceutical company focusing on the development of drugs for neurological disorders,
metabolism and cancer. The drugs target acute indications of brain injury such as cognitive impairment
resulting from traumatic brain injury, psychiatric symptoms of stroke, as well as chronic conditions such as
Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.
Neuren has three lead candidates; Motiva® and NNZ-2566 presently in clinical development to treat four
different neurological conditions, and NNZ-2591 in preclinical development for Parkinson’s disease dementia
and other chronic neurodegenerative conditions. The Group has operations in New Zealand and the United
States.
Performance Overview
In 2010 patient recruitment commenced in Phase 2 trials for two of Neuren’s lead candidates; NNZ-2566 and
Motiva®. Funding for the NNZ-2566 trial and oral development continues to be provided by the US Army,
with a further NZ$6 million received in the year. The Motiva® trial is being undertaken by Prof. Sergio
Starkstein, MD, PhD at Fremantle Hospital, Perth, and is funded by a grant from the National Health and
Medical Research Council (Australia) directly to the principal investigator. Neuren is supporting the trial
through the supply of drug and placebo which it has in stock.
Neuren’s operations for 2010 are described further in the Chief Executive’s Report on pages 1 to 5.
All amounts are shown in New Zealand dollars unless otherwise stated.
The Group’s net loss for the year ended 31 December 2010 was $6,573,000 (2009: $33,000). The detailed
financial statements are presented on pages 14 to 32.
The net deficit per share for 2010 was $0.02 (2009: $nil) based on 384,916,420 weighted average number of
shares outstanding (2009: 271,275,942).
No ordinary share dividends were paid in the year and the Directors recommend none for the year.
Directors
Dr Robin Congreve, LLM, PhD (Chairman)
Dr Congreve was for many years a partner in Russell McVeagh McKenzie Bartleet & Co specialising in
taxation and business law. He was subsequently on the Boards of or chaired a number of public and private
companies including NZ Railways Corporation, BNZ, Comalco NZ Limited, Lion Nathan Limited and TruTest
Limited. He is a principal of Oceania & Eastern Group, a New Zealand private equity group which has
provided private equity funding to both Neuren's predecessor companies, NeuronZ and EndocrinZ. Dr
Congreve was founding Chairman of the Auckland Medical School Foundation which led to the formation of
NeuronZ within the University of Auckland and subsequently to the introduction of private equity into that
company and EndocrinZ.
Dr Trevor Scott, MNZM, LLD (Hon), BCom, FCA, FNZIM, DF Inst D (Non-Executive Director)
Dr Scott is founder of T.D. Scott and Co., an accountancy and consulting firm, which he formed in 1988. He
is an experienced advisor to companies across a variety of industries. Dr Scott serves on numerous
corporate boards and is chairman of several, including Mercy Hospital Dunedin Limited and Arthur Barnett
Limited. He is also a director of Argosy Property Trust Limited (formerly ING Property Trust Limited) which is
listed on the New Zealand Stock Exchange.
Dr Douglas Wilson, MB, ChB, PhD (Director and Chief Medical Officer)
Dr Wilson was originally a medical academic with postgraduate experience in Auckland, London, Oxford and
Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Melbourne. He then spent many years in the international pharmaceutical
industry, firstly as Senior Vice-President for Boehringer Ingelheim USA. Dr Wilson was responsible for all
drugs and clinical development and all interactions with the FDA. He then carried these responsibilities
worldwide at Boehringer Ingelheim Head Office in Germany. He has overseen multiple drugs at all phases of
development including bringing many drugs successfully to the market in the USA. Dr Wilson is now a
consultant to the biotechnology sector.
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Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
Dr Graeme Howie, BSc (Hons), PhD (Non-Executive Director)
Dr Howie has over 27 years of management experience in the international pharmaceutical industry with a
strong and diverse background in research and development, product development, manufacturing and
commercial fields. His most recent experience is in recombinant biotech product development and was until
December 2004 a senior executive at Pfizer Inc., based in New York. Dr Howie has extensive international
experience in technical and commercial due diligence activities, including in-licensing. He also led and was
responsible for new delivery route feasibility studies on human growth hormone and has been responsible
for the development and registration of various products throughout the USA, Europe, Australia and Asia.
Dr John Holaday, PhD (Non-Executive Director)
Dr Holaday joined the Neuren Board in November 2009. Dr Holaday, a veteran life-science entrepreneur, has
built five public and private biopharmaceutical companies over the past 21 years and raised more than
US$450 million in capital. Dr Holaday founded EntreMed in 1992 and served as its Chairman, President and
CEO until his retirement in 2003 and was the co-founder, director, Scientific Director and SVP of Medicis
Pharmaceutical Corporation. He was the founder and Chief of the Neuropharmacology Branch at the Walter
Reed Army Institute of Research for 21 years. Dr Holaday has received numerous honours and awards,
including induction into Ernst and Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year 2006 Hall of Fame. He holds over 60
U.S. and foreign patents, has published more than 200 scientific articles and reviews, and edited five books.
He is currently CEO of QRxPharma, a listed specialty pharmaceutical company specialising in pain and CNS
diseases.
Interests Register
The Company is required to maintain an interests register in which particulars of certain transactions and
matters involving Directors must be recorded. Details of the entries in this register for each of the Directors
are as follows:
Dr R L Congreve
Dr Congreve is a director of Oceania & Eastern Biotech Limited, EndocrinZ Founders Limited, and Hazardous
Investments Limited, all shareholders of the Company. Dr Congreve does not have any other interests
considered to cause any potential conflict of interests.
Dr T D Scott
Dr Scott is a director of Centralo Limited, a shareholder of the Company, and Essex Castle Limited, a
nominee company. Dr Scott is also the chairman of Mercy Hospital Dunedin Limited which also operates in
the biotechnology/pharmaceutical industry. Dr Scott does not have any other interests considered to cause
any potential conflict of interests.
Dr J D Wilson
Dr Wilson was appointed a director of Phylogica Limited, a Perth, Australia, based biopharmaceutical drug
discovery company, in March 2008. Dr Wilson does not have any other disclosed interests considered to
cause any potential conflict of interests.
Dr G B Howie
Dr Howie does not have any interests considered to cause any potential conflict of interests.
Dr J Holaday
Dr Holaday is CEO of QRxPharma, a listed specialty pharmaceutical company specialising in pain and CNS
diseases. Dr Holaday does not have any other interests considered to cause any potential conflict of
interests.
The details of each Director’s relevant interests in securities of the Company are disclosed in the “Other
Information” section of this Annual Report.
Information used by Directors
During the year the Board received no notices from Directors of the Company requesting to use Company
information received in their capacity as Directors, which would not otherwise have been available to them.
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Indemnification and Insurance of Directors and Officers
Neuren has arranged Directors and Officers Liability Insurance that provides that generally Directors and
Officers will incur no monetary loss as a result of actions undertaken by them as Directors and Officers. The
insurance does not cover liabilities arising from criminal activities or deliberate or reckless acts or omissions.
Remuneration of Directors
Dr Robin Congreve (Chairman)
Mr Tom Amos 2
Dr John Holaday 1
Dr Graeme Howie
Dr Trevor Scott
Dr Doug Wilson
1 Appointed as a director 25 November 2009
2 Resigned as a director 27 March 2009
Directors’
Fees
2010
$’000
60
Other
Remuneration
2010
$’000
40
Directors’
Fees
2009
$’000
60
Other
Remuneration
2009
$’000
40
-
35
35
40
35
-
-
-
20
-
9
3
35
40
-
-
-
-
20
100
Executive Remuneration
The number of employees, not being directors of the Company, who received remuneration and benefits
above $100,000 per annum, is as follows:
$100,000 - $109,999
$110,000 - $119,999
$120,000 - $129,999
$130,000 - $139,999
$140,000 - $149,999
$170,000 - $179,999
$200,000 - $209,999
$300,000 - $309,999
$360,000 - $369,999
2010
$’000
-
2009
$’000
1
1
-
1
1
1
1
1
-
-
2
-
1
1
-
-
1
Donations
The Company made no donations during the year (2009: nil).
Auditors
PricewaterhouseCoopers are the auditors of the Company. Audit fees in relation to the annual and interim
financial statements were $51,000 (2009: $44,000). During 2010 PricewaterhouseCoopers also received
$8,600 (2009: $nil) in relation to other financial advice and services.
8
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
Corporate Governance Statement
The Directors have adopted practices and procedures for the good corporate governance of the Company.
These practices and procedures establish the framework of how the Directors carry out their duties and
discharge their obligations. The Company has adopted appropriate policies and practices as provided by the
ASX Listing Rules and the Corporate Governance Principles and Recommendations issued by the ASX
Corporate Governance Council (“Council”) in March 2003 and revised in August 2007 (2nd edition) which are
as follows:
Principle 1.
Principle 2.
Principle 3.
Principle 4.
Principle 5.
Principle 6.
Principle 7.
Principle 8.
Lay solid foundations for management and oversight
Structure the Board to add value
Promote ethical and responsible decision-making
Safeguard integrity in financial reporting
Make timely and balanced disclosure
Respect the rights of shareholders
Recognise and manage risk
Remunerate fairly and responsibly
Neuren’s corporate governance practices were fully compliant with the Council’s August 2007 best practice
recommendations apart from the following recommendations:
Recommendation 2.2: The chair should be an independent director
Dr Congreve is the Chairman of the Board, and was elected as such by the shareholders of the
Company. As noted below, Dr Congreve is not “independent” however in accordance with Council’s
recommendations, Dr Scott, Chairman of the Remuneration and Audit Committee, acts as lead
independent director.
Recommendation 2.4: The Board should establish a nomination committee
The Board has previously considered establishing a Nomination Committee, however due to the small
number of Directors the Board considers it more efficient for the selection and appointment of Directors
to be considered by the Board itself. It is the Board’s policy to determine the terms and conditions
relating to the appointment and retirement of non-executive Directors on a case by case basis and in
conformity with the requirements of the Listing Rules. The Board may also engage an external
consultant where appropriate to identify and assess suitable candidates who meet the Board’s
specifications.
Amendments by the Council in June 2010 to the August 2007 best practice recommendations will be
implemented in the 2011 financial year.
Role of the Board
The Board is responsible for the overall corporate governance of the Company. The Board acts on behalf of
and is accountable to the shareholders. The Board seeks to identify the expectations of shareholders as well
as other regulatory and ethical expectations and obligations. The Board is responsible for identifying areas of
significant business risk and ensuring mechanisms are in place to manage those risks adequately. In
addition, the Board sets the overall strategic goals and objectives, and monitors achievement of goals.
The Board appoints the Chief Executive Officer and the responsibility for the operation and administration of
the Company has been delegated to the Chief Executive Officer and senior management. The Board ensures
this team is appropriately qualified to discharge their responsibilities and reviews the performance of the
Chief Executive Officer annually against agreed objectives. This performance review was conducted in early
2010 and 2011. The Chief Executive Officer is responsible for reviewing annually the performance of senior
management.
The Board ensures management’s objectives and activities are aligned with the expectations and risks
identified by the Board through a number of mechanisms including the following:
•
•
establishment of the overall strategic direction and leadership of the Company;
approving and monitoring the implementation by management of the Company’s strategic plan to
achieve those objectives;
reviewing performance against its stated objectives, by receiving regular management reports on
business situation, opportunities and risks;
•
• monitoring and review of the Company’s controls and systems including those concerned with
regulatory matters to ensure statutory compliance and the highest ethical standards; and
review and adoption of the annual budget and monitoring the results against stated targets.
•
9
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
The Board reviews its corporate strategy and financial targets in terms of shareholder expectations,
performance and potential in the interests of creating long-term value for shareholders.
The Board considers corporate governance to be an important element of its responsibilities. It meets
regularly throughout the year.
Board Composition
The Company must have between 3 and 9 Directors. The independence and tenure of each Director at the
date of this report is as follows:
Director
Position
Independence
Term in Office
Dr Robin Congreve
Dr John Holaday
Dr Graeme Howie
Dr Trevor Scott
Dr Doug Wilson
Chairman – Non-executive director
Non-executive director
Non-executive director
Non-executive director
Chief Medical Officer – Executive director
Non-independent
Independent
Independent
Independent
Non-independent
9
1
6
8
7
The Board’s composition, performance, and the independence of Directors are regularly reviewed by the
Chairman and lead independent director, Dr Scott, to ensure that the Board has the appropriate mix of
independence, expertise and experience. Dr Holaday, Dr Howie and Dr Scott are independent Directors. The
Board has previously considered establishing a Nomination Committee, however due to the small number of
Directors the Board considers it more efficient for the selection and appointment of Directors to be
considered by the Board itself.
It is the Board’s policy to determine the terms and conditions relating to the appointment and retirement of
non-executive Directors on a case by case basis and in conformity with the requirements of the Listing
Rules. The Board may also engage an external consultant where appropriate to identify and assess suitable
candidates who meet the Board’s specifications.
The relevant skills, experience and expertise of each Board member are set out in the Directors’ Report.
For the purposes of the proper performance of their duties, Directors are entitled to seek independent
professional advice at the Company’s expense on prior approval of the Chairman.
Board Committees
It is the Board’s policy that Committees it has established should:
•
be entitled to obtain such resources and information from the Company including direct access to
employees of and advisers to the Company as it may require; and
operate in accordance with the terms of reference established by the Board.
•
Remuneration and Audit Committee
The Remuneration and Audit Committee must have a minimum of 2 non-executive directors. Currently the
Committee members are Dr Scott (Chair), Dr Congreve and Dr Holaday. The Committee operates under
terms of reference approved by the Board. It is responsible for undertaking a broad review of, ensuring
compliance with, and making recommendations in respect of, the Company’s internal financial controls,
legal compliance obligations and remuneration policies. It is also responsible for:
•
review of audit assessment of the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls over the Company’s
accounting and financial reporting systems, including controls over computerised systems;
review of the audit plans and recommendations of the external auditors;
evaluating the extent to which the planned scope of the audit can be relied upon to detect weaknesses
in internal control, fraud and other illegal acts;
review of the results of audits, any changes in accounting practices or policies and subsequent effects
on the financial statements and make recommendations to management where necessary and
appropriate;
review of the performance and fees of the external auditor;
audit of legal compliance including trade practices, corporations law, occupational health and safety and
environmental statutory compliance , and compliance with the Listing Rules of the ASX;
supervision of special investigations when requested by the Board;
setting and reviewing compensation policies and practices of the Company;
setting and reviewing remuneration of the Directors, Chief Executive Officer and members of the
executive team; and
setting and reviewing the Company’s equity plans for employees and/or Directors.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
10
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
All members of the Committee meet at least twice during the year. In undertaking these tasks the
Remuneration and Audit Committee meets separately with management and external auditors where
required. The Committee also seeks assurances from the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer
in respect of the accuracy and compliance of the Company’s annual and half-year financial statements and
effectiveness of the Company’s management of its material business risks.
Ethical Standards and Share Trading
The Company recognises the need for Directors and employees to observe the highest standards of
behaviour and business ethics when engaging in corporate activity or share trading.
The Constitution permits Directors to acquire shares in the Company. The Company’s share trading policy
prohibits Directors, executives and employees from acquiring or disposing of securities unless this occurs
during a 42 day period commencing 24 hours after the announcement to the ASX of the quarterly, half-yearly
and annual results and/or after the conclusion of the Company’s Annual General Meeting and provided that
the person is not in possession of price sensitive information and the trading is not for short-term or
speculative gain. Other trading may only occur with Board approval.
Continuous Disclosure
As a listed company, Neuren is required to comply with the continuous disclosure requirements as set out in
the ASX Listing Rules. The Company discloses to the ASX any information concerning the Company which a
reasonable person would expect to have a material effect on the price or value of securities of the Company,
unless certain exemptions from the obligation to disclose apply.
All relevant information provided to the ASX is also posted onto the Company’s corporate website
www.neurenpharma.com, in compliance with the continuous disclosure requirements of the Listing Rules.
Rights of Shareholders
The Board strives to communicate regularly and clearly with shareholders, the principal methods being
through the Company’s annual and half-year reports, and Company announcements posted on the
Company’s website. Shareholders are encouraged to attend and participate at general meetings, which the
Auditors are also invited to attend.
Identification and Management of Significant Business Risk
The Board has identified the significant areas of potential business and legal risk for the Company.
The identification, monitoring and, where appropriate, the reduction of significant risk to the Company are
monitored by the Board. The Board reviews and monitors the parameters under which such risks will be
managed.
The Board has identified the Company’s activities in conducting clinical trials on humans as a significant area
of risk. The Board has established policies and procedures to mitigate the risks involved in this area. These
include:
•
all clinical activities are covered by clinical trials insurance policies at levels of coverage deemed
acceptable by the Board and Chief Executive Officer;
all clinical trials and studies involving human subjects are overseen by an independent Data Safety and
Monitoring Committee (DSMC), the composition and charter for which are fully compliant with FDA and
ICH guidelines ;
for clinical trials involving patients, a Clinical Advisory Board comprising board-certified experts in the
relevant clinical specialties and subspecialties provides advice and guidance to the CEO in the design
and implementation of trials from both ethical and safety perspectives;
for clinical trials conducted in the US, a Medical Monitor oversees pharmacovigilance and safety
reporting procedures and practices;
all emergent safety issues are immediately brought to the attention of the DSMC by the Medical
Monitor which has unilateral authority to unblind data and, if deemed necessary, to halt enrolment;
before any clinical trial is initiated, protocols are reviewed and approved by cognizant national regulatory
agencies (e.g., FDA, Med-Safe, Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration), a central Institutional
Review Board (IRB) and independent IRBs or Ethics Committees at each participating clinical centre
which are fully independent of Company management;
clinical operations management staff maintain current certification by the Association of Clinical
Research Professionals with respect to knowledge of and compliance with clinical research regulations
and guidelines and Good Clinical Practices; and
the Company employs a full-time Director of Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs to oversee
compliance with FDA/ICH guidelines for preclinical research, manufacturing and clinical trials. This
person reports directly to the CEO.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
11
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
The Remuneration and Audit Committee also assists the Board in its monitoring of financial and operational
risk.
Remuneration
Neuren believes having highly skilled and motivated people will allow the organisation to best pursue its
mission and achieve its goals for the benefit of shareholders and stakeholders more broadly. The ability to
attract and retain the best people is critical to the Company’s future success. The Board believes
remuneration policies are a key part of ensuring this success.
The Remuneration and Audit Committee of the Board is responsible for determining and reviewing
compensation arrangements for the Directors, Chief Executive Officers and members of the executive team.
The Committee assesses the appropriateness of the nature and amount of emoluments on a periodic basis
by reference to relevant employment market conditions, with the overall objective of ensuring maximum
stakeholder benefit from the retention of a high quality Board and executive team. To assist in achieving
these objectives, the Remuneration and Audit Committee links the nature and amount of executive
Directors’ and Officers’ emoluments to the Company’s performance.
Remuneration of Executives comprises base salary and an “at-risk” (bonus) component, the payment of
which is dependent upon individual, team and Company performance relative to specific targets. Executive
performance and remuneration is reviewed formally each year.
Long-term incentive arrangements have been provided by participation in a share option plan to ensure key
employees maintain a long-term interest in the growth and value of the Company.
Non-executive Director fees are determined by the Board within the aggregate limit for Directors’ fees
approved by shareholders. The current remuneration level for the Chair is $60,000 and for non-executive
Directors is $25,000 per year with an additional $10,000 for committee membership and $5,000 for
committee Chairs. Executive Directors do not receive Directors fees. Directors and Executives receive no
retirement allowances. New Zealand Companies Act disclosures with regard to Directors’ Fees and
Executives’ remuneration are set out in the Directors’ Report.
12
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
Financial Statements
for the year ended 31 December 2010
13
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
Statements of Comprehensive Income
for the year ended 31 December 2010
Consolidated
Parent
Notes
NZ$’000
2010
2009
NZ$’000
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
Revenue
- interest income
- contract revenue
- out-licensing revenue
Other income - grants
Total revenue and other income
Depreciation and amortisation expense
Intangible asset impairment expense
Loss on disposal of intangible assets
Research and development costs
Patent costs
Share option compensation expense
Foreign exchange (loss) gain
Interest expense
Corporate and administrative costs
Loss before income tax
Income tax expense
Loss after income tax
4
5
52
-
-
52
6,122
6,174
(529)
-
(225)
(9,241)
(401)
(923)
(78)
(2)
(1,348)
(6,573)
-
(6,573)
24
-
58
82
6,123
6,205
(625)
(192)
-
(3,969)
(515)
(7)
203
(3)
(1,130)
(33)
-
(33)
34
-
-
34
-
34
(119)
-
(225)
(966)
(143)
(923)
(21)
(2)
(1,119)
(3,484)
-
(3,484)
15
-
58
73
388
461
(164)
(192)
-
(990)
(306)
(7)
204
(3)
(978)
(1,975)
-
(1,975)
Other comprehensive income (expense), net of tax
Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations
(317)
(1,321)
-
-
Total comprehensive loss
$
(6,890)
$
(1,354)
$
(3,484)
$
(1,975)
Profit (loss) after income tax attributable to:
Equity holders of the company
Minority interest
Total comprehensive loss attributable to:
Equity holders of the company
Minority interest
(6,445)
(128)
123
(156)
(3,484)
-
(1,975)
-
$
(6,573)
$
(33)
$
(3,484)
$
(1,975)
(6,762)
(128)
(1,198)
(156)
(3,484)
-
(1,975)
-
$
(6,890)
$
(1,354)
$
(3,484)
$
(1,975)
Basic and diluted loss per share
6
$
(0.02)
$
0.00
The notes on pages 18 to 32 form part of these financial statements
14
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
Statements of Financial Position
as at 31 December 2010
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade and other receivables
Total current assets
Non-current assets:
Property, plant and equipment
Intangible assets
Investments in subsidiaries
Total non-current assets
TOTAL ASSETS
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Trade and other payables
Convertible note – short term
Equipment finance – short term
Lease incentive – short term
Total current liabilities
Non-current liabilities:
Convertible note – long term
Lease incentive – long term
Total liabilities
EQUITY
Share capital
Other reserves
Accumulated deficit
Total equity attributable to equity holders
Minority interest in equity
Total equity
Consolidated
Parent
Notes
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
7
8
9
10
15
11
12
12
12
13
1,956
430
2,386
23
5,121
-
5,144
4,232
2,270
6,502
51
6,153
-
6,204
653
765
1,418
21
622
4,257
4,900
1,695
1,871
3,566
47
933
4,257
5,237
$
7,530
$
12,706
$
6,318
$
8,803
2,257
598
-
12
2,867
-
9
3,093
-
11
12
3,116
490
22
1,399
598
-
12
2,009
-
9
2,700
-
11
12
2,723
490
22
2,876
3,628
2,018
3,235
68,858
5,986
(70,137)
4,707
(53)
4,654
69,344
3,601
(63,692)
9,253
(175)
9,078
68,858
6,053
(70,611)
4,300
-
4,300
69,344
3,351
(67,127)
5,568
-
5,568
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
$
7,530
$
12,706
$
6,318
$
8,803
The notes on pages 18 to 32 form part of these financial statements
For and on behalf of the Board of Directors who authorised the issue of these financial statements
on 30 March 2011.
Dr Robin Congreve
Chairman
Dr Trevor Scott
Director
15
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
Statements of Changes in Equity
for the year ended 31 December 2010
Consolidated
Share
Option
Reserve
NZ$’000
Foreign
Currency
Translation
Reserve
NZ$’000
Total
Attributable
to Equity
Holders
NZ$’000
Accumulated
Deficit
NZ$’000
Share
Capital
NZ$’000
Minority
Interest
NZ$’000
Total
Equity
NZ$’000
Equity as at 1 January 2009
$ 68,768
$
974
$ 1,571
$
(64,651)
$ 6,662
$
-
$ 6,662
Shares issued in Share Purchase Plan
Shares issued on conversion of notes
Shares issued in private placement
Share issue costs expensed
1,003
190
1,903
(150)
Share option grants for services
(2,370)
2,377
Minority interest issued in subsidiary
Gain on issue of minority interest
Comprehensive loss for the year
1,003
190
1,903
(150)
7
-
(1,321)
836
123
836
(1,198)
1,003
190
1,903
(150)
7
817
-
(1,354)
817
(836)
(156)
Equity as at 31 December 2009
$ 69,344
$ 3,351
$
250
$
(63,692)
$ 9,253
$
(175)
$ 9,078
Shares issued on conversion of notes
Share issue costs expensed
1,759
(466)
Share option grants for services
(1,779)
2,702
1,759
(466)
923
Minority interest issued in subsidiary
-
250
1,759
(466)
923
250
Comprehensive loss for the year
(317)
(6,445)
(6,762)
(128)
(6,890)
Equity as at 31 December 2010
$ 68,858
$ 6,053
$
(67)
$
(70,137)
$ 4,707
$
(53)
$ 4,654
Parent
Share
Option
Reserve
NZ$’000
Foreign
Currency
Translation
Reserve
NZ$’000
Total
Attributable
to Equity
Holders
NZ$’000
Accumulated
Deficit
NZ$’000
Share
Capital
NZ$’000
Equity as at 1 January 2009
$ 68,768
$
974
$
-
$
(65,152)
$ 4,590
Shares issued in Share Purchase Plan
Shares issued on conversion of notes
Shares issued in private placement
Share issue costs expensed
1,003
190
1,903
(150)
Share option grants for services
(2,370)
2,377
1,003
190
1,903
(150)
7
Comprehensive loss for the year
(1,975)
(1,975)
Equity as at 31 December 2009
$ 69,344
$ 3,351
$
-
$
(67,127)
$ 5,568
Shares issued on conversion of notes
Share issue costs expensed
1,759
(466)
Share option grants for services
(1,779)
2,702
1,759
(466)
923
Comprehensive loss for the year
(3,484)
(3,484)
Equity as at 31 December 2010
$ 68,858
$ 6,053
$
-
$
(70,611)
$ 4,300
The notes on pages 18 to 32 form part of these financial statements
16
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
Statements of Cash Flows
for the year ended 31 December 2010
Cash flows from operating activities:
Receipts from grants
Receipts from licensing
Interest received
GST refunded
Interest paid
Payments to employees
Payments to other suppliers
Consolidated
Parent
2010
2009
2010
2009
NZ$’000
NZ$’000
NZ$’000
NZ$’000
6,410
5,835
-
52
138
(2)
(1,254)
(9,129)
107
24
111
(3)
(976)
(6,688)
288
-
34
112
(2)
(1,068)
(2,486)
100
107
15
94
(3)
(851)
(1,908)
Net cash used in operating activities
(3,785)
(1,590)
(3,122)
(2,446)
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchase of property, plant and equipment
Sale of property, plant and equipment
Advance from (to) subsidiaries
Net cash used in investing activities
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from the issue of shares
Proceeds from the issue of convertible notes
Proceeds from minority interest
Repayment of equipment financing
Payment of share issue expenses
(7)
-
-
(7)
-
1,835
250
(11)
(478)
(6)
5
-
(1)
2,906
680
817
(15)
(149)
Net cash provided from financing activities
1,596
4,239
Net (decrease) increase in cash
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash balances
Cash at the beginning of the year
(2,196)
(80)
4,232
2,648
(35)
1,619
(7)
-
738
731
-
1,835
-
(11)
(478)
1,346
(1,045)
3
1,695
-
5
(867)
(862)
2,906
680
-
(15)
(149)
3,422
114
52
1,529
Cash at the end of the year
$
1,956
$
4,232
$
653
$
1,695
Reconciliation with loss after income tax:
Loss after income tax
$
(6,573)
$
(33)
$
(3,484)
$
(1,975)
Non-cash items requiring adjustment:
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment
Loss (gain) on disposal of property, plant and equipment
Amortisation of intangible assets
Loss on disposal of intangible assets
Intangible asset impairment
Share option compensation expense
Foreign exchange loss (gain)
Lease incentive amortisation
Changes in working capital:
Trade and other receivables
Trade and other payables
36
-
493
225
-
923
78
(12)
43
(1)
582
-
192
7
(203)
(12)
33
-
86
225
-
923
21
(12)
1,817
(772)
(1,852)
(313)
308
(1,222)
43
(1)
121
-
192
7
(204)
(12)
104
(721)
Net cash used in operating activities
$
(3,785)
$
(1,590)
$
(3,122)
$
(2,446)
The notes on pages 18 to 32 form part of these financial statements
17
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
Notes to the Financial Statements
for the year ended 31 December 2010
1. Nature of business
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited (Neuren or the Company, and its subsidiaries, or the Group) is a publicly listed
biopharmaceutical company focusing on the development of drugs for neurological disorders, metabolism and
cancer. The drugs target acute indications of brain injury such as cognitive impairment resulting from cardiac
surgery and traumatic brain injury, psychiatric symptoms of stroke, as well as chronic conditions such as
Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.
Neuren has three lead candidates; Motiva™ and NNZ-2566 presently in clinical development to treat a range of
acute and chronic neurological conditions, and NNZ-2591 in preclinical development for Parkinson’s disease
dementia and other chronic neurodegenerative conditions. The Group has operations in New Zealand and the
United States.
The Company is a limited liability company incorporated and domiciled in New Zealand. The address of its
registered office in New Zealand is level 2, 57 Wellington Street, Auckland, and in Australia Level 13, 122 Arthur
Street, North Sydney. Neuren has its primary listing on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX code: NEU).
These consolidated financial statements have been approved for issue by the Board of Directors on 30 March 2011.
Inherent Uncertainties
• There are inherent uncertainties associated with assessing the carrying value of the acquired intellectual
property. The ultimate realisation of the carrying values of intellectual property totalling $5,121,000 (after
amortisation) is dependent on the Company and Group successfully developing its products, on licensing the
products, or divesting the intellectual property so that it generates future economic benefits to the Company.
• The Group’s research and development activities involve inherent risks. These risks include, among others:
dependence on, and the Group’s ability to retain key personnel; the Group’s ability to protect its intellectual
property and prevent other companies from using the technology; the Group’s business is based on novel and
unproven technology; the Group’s ability to sufficiently complete the clinical trials process; and technological
developments by the Group’s competitors may render its products obsolete.
• The Company has a business plan which will require a high level of expenditure until product revenue streams
are established and therefore expects to continue to incur additional net losses until then. In the future, the
Company will need to raise further financing through other public or private equity financings, collaborations or
other arrangements with corporate sources, or other sources of financing to fund operations. There can be no
assurance that such additional financing, if available, can be obtained on terms reasonable to the Company. In
the event the Company is unable to raise additional capital, future operations will need to be curtailed or
discontinued.
2. Summary of significant accounting policies
These general-purpose financial statements are for the year ended 31 December 2010 and have been prepared in
accordance with and comply with generally accepted accounting practice in New Zealand, International Financial
Reporting Standards, New Zealand equivalents to International Financial Reporting Standards (NZ IFRS) and other
applicable Financial Reporting Standards as appropriate for profit-oriented entities.
(a) Basis of preparation
Entities Reporting
The consolidated financial statements incorporate the assets and liabilities of all subsidiaries of the Group as at 31
December 2010 and the results of all subsidiaries for the year then ended. Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited and its
subsidiaries, which are designated as profit-oriented entities for financial reporting purposes, together are referred
to in these financial statements as the Group.
The financial statements of the ‘Parent’ are for the Company as a separate legal entity.
Statutory Base
Neuren is registered under the New Zealand Companies Act 1993 and is an issuer in terms of the New Zealand
Securities Act 1978. Neuren is also registered as a foreign company under the Australian Corporations Act 2001.
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Financial Reporting Act
1993 and the Companies Act 1993.
Historical cost convention
These financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention as modified by certain policies
below.
Critical accounting estimates
The preparation of financial statements requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates. It also requires the
Company to exercise its judgement in the process of applying the Company’s accounting policies such as in
18
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
relation to impairment, if any, of intangible assets set out in note 10. Actual results may differ from those
estimates.
Changes in accounting policies
The following amendment was mandatory for the first time in the period beginning 1 January 2010:
• NZ IFRS 3 Business Combinations (Revised) and NZ IAS 27 Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements
(Revised). Transaction costs associated with any future acquisition are expensed when incurred and no longer
included in the cost of acquisition. In addition, any contingent consideration is required to be recognised at fair
value at the acquisition date with any subsequent changes taken to the comprehensive income statement.
Where less than a 100% interest is acquired, the acquirer can recognise either the entire goodwill or the
goodwill proportionate to the interest acquired. The Group made no acquisitions in the period.
(b) Principles of Consolidation
Subsidiaries
Subsidiaries are all those entities over which the Company has the power to govern the financial and operating
policies, generally accompanying a shareholding of more than one-half of the voting rights.
Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date on which control is transferred to the Group. They are de-
consolidated from the date that control ceases.
The purchase method of accounting is used to account for the acquisition of subsidiaries by the Group. The cost of
an acquisition is measured as the fair value of the assets given, equity instruments issued and liabilities incurred or
assumed at the date of exchange. Costs attributable to the acquisition are expensed as incurred. Identifiable
assets acquired and liabilities and contingent liabilities assumed in a business combination are measured initially at
their fair values at the acquisition date. 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. If the cost of acquisition is less than the fair value of
the net assets of the subsidiary acquired, the difference is recognised directly in the comprehensive income
statement.
Inter-company transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactions between Group companies are
eliminated. Unrealised losses are also eliminated unless the transaction provides evidence of the impairment of
the asset transferred. Accounting policies of subsidiaries have been changed where necessary to ensure
consistency with the policies adopted by the Company.
(c) Segment Reporting
Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the chief operating
decision-maker. The chief operating decision-maker, who is responsible for allocating resources and assessing
performance of the operating segments, has been identified as the Chief Executive Officer.
(d) Foreign Currency Translation
(i) Functional and Presentation Currency
Items included in the financial statements of each of the Group’s operations are measured using the currency that
best reflects the economic substance of the underlying events and circumstances relevant to that operation
(”functional currency”). The Consolidated and Parent financial statements are presented in New Zealand dollars,
which is the Group’s presentation currency.
(ii) 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 comprehensive income statement, except when deferred in equity as qualifying
cash flow hedges and qualifying net investment hedges.
(iii) Foreign Operations
The results and financial position of foreign entities (none of which has the currency of a hyperinflationary
economy) that have a functional currency different from the presentation currency are translated into the
presentation currency as follows:
• assets and liabilities for each statement of financial position presented are translated at the closing rate at the
date of that statement of financial position;
• income and expenses for each comprehensive income statement are translated at average exchange rates; and
• all resulting exchange differences are recognised as a separate component of equity.
Exchange differences arising from the translation of any net investment in foreign entities, and of borrowings and
other currency instruments designated as hedges of such investments, are taken to shareholders’ equity.
Goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on the acquisition of a foreign operation are treated as assets and
liabilities of the foreign operation and translated at the closing rate.
(e) Revenue recognition
Grants
Grants received are recognised in the comprehensive income statement when the requirements under the grant
agreement have been met. Any grants for which the requirements under the grant agreement have not been
completed are carried as liabilities until all the conditions have been fulfilled.
19
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
Out-licensing and royalty revenue
Out-licensing and royalty revenue comprises income generated from technology out-licensing and research and
development collaboration agreements. Where licensing agreements include non-refundable milestone income,
revenue is recognised on achieving the milestones. If any milestone income is creditable against royalty payments
then it is deferred and released to the comprehensive income statement over the period in which the royalties
would otherwise be receivable. Royalty income relating to the sale by a licensee of licensed product is recognised
on an accruals basis in accordance with the substance of the relevant agreement and based on the receipt from
the licensee of the relevant information to enable calculation of the royalty due.
Contract research
Where science projects are recognised on an individual project basis and span more than one year, the percentage
completion method is used to determine the appropriate amount of revenue to recognise in a given year over the
life of the project. Contract revenue is recognised when earned and non-refundable and when there are no future
obligations pursuant to the revenue, in accordance with the contract terms. The full amount of an anticipated loss,
including that relating to future work on the contract, is recognised as soon as it is foreseen.
Interest income
Interest income is recognised on a time-proportion basis using the effective interest method.
(f) Research and development
Research costs include direct and directly attributable overhead expenses for drug discovery, research and pre-
clinical and clinical trials. Research costs are expensed as incurred.
When a project reaches the stage where it is reasonably certain that future expenditure can be recovered through
the process or products produced, development expenditure is recognised as a development asset when:
•
•
•
•
a product or process is clearly defined and the costs attributable to the product or process can be
identified separately and measured reliably;
the technical feasibility of the product or process can be demonstrated;
the existence of a market for the product or process can be demonstrated and the Company intends to
produce and market the product or process;
adequate resources exist, or their availability can be reasonably demonstrated to complete the project
and market the product or process.
In such cases the asset is amortised from the commencement of commercial production of the product to which it
relates on a straight-line basis over the years of expected benefit. Research and development costs are otherwise
expensed as incurred.
(g) Income tax
The income tax expense for the period is the tax payable on the period’s taxable income or loss using tax rates
enacted at the balance sheet date and adjusted by changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities attributable to
temporary differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the financial
statements, and to unused tax losses.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognised for temporary differences at the tax rates expected to apply when
the assets are recovered or liabilities are settled, based on those tax rates which are enacted or substantively
enacted at the balance sheet date. The relevant tax rates are applied to the cumulative amounts of deductible and
taxable temporary differences to measure the deferred tax asset or liability. An exception is made for certain
temporary differences arising from the initial recognition of an asset or a liability. No deferred tax asset or liability is
recognised in relation to these temporary differences if they arose in a transaction, other than a business
combination, that at the time of the transaction did not affect either accounting profit or taxable profit or loss.
Deferred tax assets are recognised for deductible temporary differences and unused tax losses only if it is probable
that future taxable amounts will be available to utilise those temporary differences and losses.
Current and deferred tax balances attributable to amounts recognised directly in equity are also recognised directly
in equity.
(h) Leases
Leases in which a significant portion of the risks and rewards of ownership are retained by the lessor are classified
as operating leases. Payments made under operating leases (net of any incentives received from the lessor) are
charged to the comprehensive income statement on a straight-line basis over the period of the lease.
Impairment of non-financial assets
(i)
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 whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that
the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. The carrying amount of a long-lived asset is considered
impaired when the recoverable amount from such asset is less than its carrying value. In that event, a loss is
recognised in the comprehensive income statement based on the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds
the fair market value less costs to sell of the long-lived asset. Fair market value is determined using the anticipated
cash flows discounted at a rate commensurate with the risk involved.
20
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
(j) Goods and services tax (GST)
The financial statements have been prepared so that all components are presented exclusive of GST. All items in
the statement of financial position are presented net of GST, with the exception of receivables and payables, which
include GST invoiced.
Intellectual property
(k)
Costs in relation to protection and maintenance of intellectual property are expensed as incurred unless the project
has yet to be recognised as commenced, in which case the expense is deferred and recognised as contract work
in progress until the revenues and costs associated with the project are recognised.
(l) Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents comprises cash and demand deposits held with established financial institutions and
highly liquid investments, which are readily convertible into cash and have maturities of three months or less that
are readily convertible to known amounts of cash and which are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value.
(m) Accounts receivable
Trade receivables are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost, less provision
for doubtful debts.
Collectability of trade receivables is reviewed on an ongoing basis. Debts which are known to be uncollectible are
written off. A provision for doubtful 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.
(n) Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment are stated at historical cost less depreciation. 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 Company and the
cost of the item can be measured reliably. All other repairs and maintenance are charged to the comprehensive
income statement during the financial period in which they are incurred.
Depreciation is determined principally using the straight-line method to allocate their cost, net of their residual
values, over their estimated useful lives, as follows:
Scientific equipment
Computer equipment
Office furniture, fixtures & fittings
Leasehold Improvements
4 years
2 years
4 years
Term of lease
(o) Intangible assets
Intellectual property
Acquired patents, trademarks and licences have finite useful lives and are carried at cost less accumulated
amortisation and impairment losses. Amortisation is calculated using the straight line method to allocate the cost
over the anticipated useful lives, which are aligned with the unexpired patent term or agreement over trademarks
and licences.
Acquired software
Acquired software licences are capitalised on the basis of the costs incurred to acquire and bring to use the
specific software. These costs are amortised over their estimated useful lives (two years).
(p) Borrowing Costs
Borrowing costs are expensed as incurred.
(q) Employee benefits
Wages and salaries and annual leave
Liabilities for wages and salaries, bonuses and annual leave expected to be settled within 12 months of the
reporting date are recognised in accrued liabilities in respect of employees’ services up to the reporting date and
are measured at the amounts expected to be paid when the liabilities are settled. Liabilities for non-accumulating
sick leave are recognised when the leave is taken and measured at the rates paid or payable.
Share-based payments
Neuren operates an equity-settled share option plan and awards certain employees and consultants share options,
from time to time, on a discretionary basis. The fair value of the services received in exchange for the grant of the
options is recognised as an expense with a corresponding increase in other reserve equity over the vesting period.
The total amount to be expensed over the vesting period is determined by reference to the fair value of the options
at grant date. At each balance sheet date, the Company revises its estimates of the number of options that are
expected to vest and become exercisable. It recognises the impact of the revision of original estimates, if any, in
the comprehensive income statement, and a corresponding adjustment to equity over the remaining vesting
period.
The proceeds received net of any directly attributable transaction costs are credited to share capital when the
options are exercised.
21
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
(r) Share issue costs
Costs associated with the issue of shares which are recognised in shareholders’ equity are treated as a reduction
of the amount collected per share.
(s) Financial instruments
Financial instruments recognised in the statement of financial position include cash and cash equivalents, trade
and other receivables and payables, equipment finance and convertible notes. The Company believes that the
amounts reported for financial instruments approximate fair value.
Although it is exposed to interest rate and foreign currency risks, the Company does not utilise derivative financial
instruments.
Financial assets: Loans and receivables
Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted
in an active market. They are included in current assets, except for maturities greater than 12 months after the
balance sheet date. These are classified as non-current assets. The Group’s loans and receivables comprise ‘trade
and other receivables’ and cash and cash equivalents in the statement of financial position. Loans and receivables
are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method less impairment.
Borrowings
Borrowings, which include convertible notes and equipment financing, are initially recognised at fair value, net of
transaction costs incurred. Borrowings are subsequently measured at amortised cost unless part of an effective
hedging relationship. Any difference between the proceeds (net of transaction costs) and the redemption amount
is recognised in the comprehensive income statement over the period of the borrowings using the effective
interest method. Borrowings are classified as current liabilities unless the Group has an unconditional right to defer
settlement of the liability for at least 12 months after the balance sheet date.
(t) Earnings per share
Basic and diluted earnings per share are calculated by dividing the profit attributable to equity holders of the
Company by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the period.
(u) Standards, interpretations and amendments to published standards that are not yet effective
Certain new standards, amendments and interpretations to existing standards have been published that are
mandatory for later periods and which the Group has not early adopted. The key items applicable to the Group are:
• NZ IFRS 9 Financial Instruments (mandatory for periods beginning on or after 1 January 2013) replaces the
multiple classification and measurements models
Instruments: Recognition and
in
measurements with a single model that has only two classification categories: amortised cost and fair value.
This will affect future financial statements through disclosure only.
IAS 39 Financial
• NZ IAS 24 Related Parties Revised (mandatory for periods beginning on or after 1 January 2011) further clarifies
the definition of a related party which may result in other related parties being identified. Management have
reviewed the proposed clarification and do not expect that this will result in further related parties being
identified for the Group.
There are no other standards, amendments or interpretations to existing standards which have been issued, but
are not yet effective, which are expected to impact the Company or Group.
3. Segment information
(a) Description of Segments
The chief operating decision maker has been identified as the CEO, who reviews the business largely on a
geographic basis and assesses results from New Zealand and the USA separately. The information reviewed is
prepared in the same format as included in the financial statements.
22
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
(b) Geographic Segments
Consolidated
Segment revenue
Segment result before minority interest
Segment assets
Segment liabilities
Acquisitions of property, plant and equipment, intangibles
and other non-current segment assets
Depreciation and amortisation expense
Loss on disposal of intangible asset
Consolidated
Segment revenue
Segment result before minority interest
Segment assets
Segment liabilities
Acquisitions of property, plant and equipment, intangibles
and other non-current segment assets
Depreciation and amortisation expense
Intangible asset impairment
Loss (gain) on disposal of property, plant and equipment
4. Expenses
2010
2010
2010
2010
New Zealand
United States
Consolidation
Total Group
NZ$’000
NZ$’000
NZ$’000
NZ$’000
Adjustments
111
(3,945)
6,523
2,121
7
124
225
6,063
(2,628)
5,999
1,490
-
405
-
-
-
(4,992)
(735)
-
-
-
6,174
(6,573)
7,530
2,876
7
529
225
2009
2009
2009
2009
New Zealand
United States
Consolidation
Total Group
NZ$’000
NZ$’000
NZ$’000
NZ$’000
Adjustments
467
(2,535)
9,156
3,275
-
167
192
(1)
5,738
2,502
9,283
1,829
6
458
-
-
-
-
(5,733)
(1,476)
-
-
-
-
6,205
(33)
12,706
3,628
6
625
192
(1)
Consolidated
Parent
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
Loss before income tax includes the following specific expenses:
Depreciation – property, plant and equipment
19
6
9
2
36
493
-
493
51
8
1
60
1,324
923
2,247
205
171
24
5
11
3
43
581
1
582
44
-
-
44
964
7
971
147
176
19
3
9
2
33
86
-
86
43
8
1
52
1,137
923
2,060
205
171
24
5
11
3
43
120
1
121
44
-
-
44
836
7
843
147
176
Scientific equipment
Computer equipment
Fixtures and fittings
Leasehold improvements
Total depreciation
Amortisation – intangible assets
Intellectual property
Software
Total amortisation
Remuneration of auditors
Audit fees
Advisory fees
Taxation fees
Total remuneration of auditors
Employee benefits expense
Salaries and wages
Share option compensation
Total employee benefits expense
Directors’ fees
Lease expense
23
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
5.
Income tax
Income tax expense
Current tax
Deferred tax
Income tax expense
Consolidated
Parent
2010
NZ$’000
2009
2010
NZ$’000
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Numerical reconciliation of income tax expense to prima
facie tax payable (receivable):
Loss before income tax
(6,573)
(33)
(3,484)
(1,975)
Tax at rates applicable in the respective countries
(2,273)
277
(1,045)
(593)
Tax effect of amounts not deductible (taxable) in calculating
taxable income:
Share option compensation
Grant income
Other expenses not deductible for tax purposes
Foreign jurisdiction withholding tax
Under (over) provision in prior years
Deferred tax assets not recognised
Income tax expense
277
-
-
(1,996)
-
1,085
911
-
2
(2,422)
-
(2,143)
-
62
2,081
-
277
-
-
(768)
-
(2)
770
-
2
(86)
-
(677)
-
2
675
-
The weighted average applicable tax rate for New Zealand segments is 30% and for United States segments 41%
(2009: 30% and 41% respectively).
6. Earnings (loss) per share
Basic loss per share is based upon the weighted average number of outstanding ordinary shares. For the year
ended 31 December 2010, the Company’s potentially dilutive ordinary share equivalents (being the convertible
notes set out in note 12 and the options over ordinary shares set out in note 13) have an anti-dilutive effect on loss
per share and, therefore, have not been included in determining the total weighted average number of ordinary
shares outstanding for the purpose of calculating diluted loss per share. In the year ended 31 December 2009, the
convertible notes set out in note 12 were potentially dilutive ordinary share equivalents for the purposes of the
Group earnings per share.
Consolidated
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
Profit (loss) after income tax attributable to equity holders
(6,445)
123
Weighted average shares outstanding (basic)
Weighted average shares outstanding (diluted)
384,916,420
271,275,942
384,916,420
272,220,539
Basic and diluted loss per share
($0.02)
$0.00
7. Cash and cash equivalents
Cash
Demand and short-term deposits
8. Trade and other receivables
Trade receivables
Prepayments
Due from subsidiaries
Consolidated
Parent
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
200
1,756
1,956
308
3,924
4,232
91
562
653
134
1,561
1,695
Consolidated
Parent
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
56
374
-
430
347
1,923
-
2,270
29
41
695
765
330
49
1,492
1,871
24
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
9. Property, plant and equipment
Parent
NZ$’000
NZ$’000
NZ$’000
NZ$’000
NZ$’000
Scientific
Equipment
Computer
Equipment
Fixtures
Leasehold
Total
& Fittings
Improvements
As at 1 January 2009
Cost
Accumulated depreciation
Net book value
Movements in the year ended
31 December 2009
Opening net book value
Additions
Depreciation
Disposals
Closing net book value
As at 31 December 2009
Cost
Accumulated depreciation
Net book value
Movements in the year ended
31 December 2010
Opening net book value
Additions
Depreciation
Disposals
Closing net book value
As at 31 December 2010
Cost
Accumulated depreciation
Net book value
109
(54)
55
55
-
(24)
(4)
27
100
(73)
27
27
-
(19)
-
8
100
(92)
8
68
(62)
6
6
-
(5)
-
1
68
(67)
1
1
7
(3)
-
5
75
(70)
5
43
(19)
24
24
-
(11)
-
13
43
(30)
13
13
-
(9)
-
4
43
(39)
4
10
(1)
9
9
-
(3)
-
6
10
(4)
6
6
-
(2)
-
4
10
(6)
4
230
(136)
94
94
-
(43)
(4)
47
221
(174)
47
47
7
(33)
-
21
228
(207)
21
In addition to the Parent’s property, plant and equipment noted above, the only other property, plant and
equipment within the Group was computer equipment with a cost of US$4,000 purchased in 2009 by the US based
subsidiary for use in the Phase 2 trial of NNZ-2566. Accumulated depreciation as at and the depreciation expense
for the year ended 31 December 2010 was US$3,000. As the trial had not commenced at 31 December 2009 and
the computer equipment was not in use, no depreciation was charged in the year ended 31 December 2009 for
this equipment.
10. Intangible assets
Consolidated
As at 1 January 2009
Cost
Accumulated amortisation
Net book value
Movements in the year ended 31 December 2009
Opening net book value
Amortisation
Impairment expense
Exchange differences
Closing net book value
As at 31 December 2009
Cost
Accumulated amortisation
Net book value
Movements in the year ended 31 December 2010
Opening net book value
Amortisation
Loss on disposal
Exchange differences
Closing net book value
As at 31 December 2010
Cost
Accumulated amortisation
Net book value
25
Intellectual
Property
NZ$’000
Acquired
Software
Total
NZ$’000
NZ$’000
9,522
(1,222)
8,300
8,300
(581)
(192)
(1,374)
6,153
7,660
(1,507)
6,153
6,153
(493)
(225)
(314)
5,121
6,873
(1,752)
5,121
35
(34)
1
1
(1)
-
-
-
35
(35)
-
-
-
-
-
-
35
(35)
-
9,557
(1,256)
8,301
8,301
(582)
(192)
(1,374)
6,153
7,695
(1,542)
6,153
6,153
(493)
(225)
(314)
5,121
6,908
(1,787)
5,121
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
Parent
As at 1 January 2009
Cost
Accumulated amortisation
Net book value
Movements in the year ended 31 December 2009
Opening net book value
Assigned to subsidiary
Amortisation
Impairment expense
Closing net book value
As at 31 December 2009
Cost
Accumulated amortisation
Net book value
Movements in the year ended 31 December 2010
Opening net book value
Amortisation
Loss on disposal
Closing net book value
As at 31 December 2010
Cost
Accumulated amortisation
Net book value
Intellectual
Property
NZ$’000
Acquired
Software
Total
NZ$’000
NZ$’000
1,932
(630)
1,302
1,302
(57)
(120)
(192)
933
1,556
(623)
933
933
(86)
(225)
622
1,167
(545)
622
35
(34)
1
1
-
(1)
-
35
(35)
-
-
-
-
35
(35)
-
1,967
(664)
1,303
1,303
(57)
(121)
(192)
933
1,591
(658)
933
933
(86)
(225)
622
1,202
(580)
622
An intangibles impairment charge of $192,000 was recorded in 2009 following rationalisation of the patent
portfolio.
11. Trade and other payables
Trade payables
Accruals
Employee benefits
Due to subsidiaries
12. Borrowings
Consolidated and Parent
Interest bearing
Equipment finance - short term
- long term
Total interest bearing debt
Non-interest bearing
Convertible notes
- short term
- long term
Consolidated
Parent
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
1,753
250
254
-
2,257
2,443
464
186
-
3,093
855
250
253
41
1,399
2,052
464
184
-
2,700
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
-
-
-
598
-
598
11
-
11
-
490
490
The New Zealand dollar denominated equipment finance was unsecured, had a fixed interest rate of 12.25% and
matured in 2010.
At 31 December 2010 two convertible notes were outstanding with principal amounts of A$60,000 and A$400,000,
and maturity dates of 19 January 2011 and 18 November 2011 respectively.
The principal terms of the notes are:
(a) They are unsecured and do not bear interest;
(b) The notes, or part thereof, convert to new ordinary shares in the Company determined by dividing the
principal amount, or part thereof to be converted, by the lesser of:
26
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
(i) 130% of the average of the Volume Weighted Average Prices per share of the Company’s
ordinary shares quoted on the ASX (“VWAPs”) for the twenty (20) business days immediately
prior to 18 November 2009; and
(ii) between 85 and 90% of the lowest of the VWAPs during the twenty (20) business days
immediately prior to the conversion;
(c) The ordinary shares issued upon conversion of a note will rank equally in all respects with the then
existing ordinary shares on issue;
(d) The notes do not carry any voting rights at meetings of shareholders of Neuren, and have no rights of
participation in any rights issue undertaken by Neuren prior to conversion of the notes.
The convertible loan agreement under which the above convertible notes were issued provides for convertible note
funding until December 2011. At 31 December 2010 a minimum of A$720,000 remained available for draw down in
monthly tranches of A$60,000. Pursuant to the convertible loan agreement, the Company issued for no value
13,000,000 ordinary shares as collateral for funding under the agreement. On expiry or termination of the
convertible loan agreement these collateral shares shall be returned to the Company to be cancelled or held as
treasury shares, or by mutual agreement of the parties purchased by the convertible loan funding provider.
13. Share capital
Consolidated and Parent
Issued share capital
2010
Shares
2009
Shares
2010
2009
NZ$’000
NZ$’000
Ordinary shares on issue at beginning of year
352,247,451
257,464,313
Shares issued in Rights Issue
Shares issued on conversion of notes
-
72,517,351
Shares issued for cash in private placements
Shares issued for cash under Share Purchase Plan
Shares issued as collateral and in lieu for capital raising fees
Share issue expenses – cash issue costs
Share issue expenses – fair value of options granted
-
-
-
-
-
-
4,629,630
40,306,174
27,176,665
22,670,669
69,344
-
1,759
-
-
-
-
-
(466)
(1,779)
68,768
-
190
1,903
1,003
-
(150)
(2,370)
424,764,802
352,247,451
68,858
69,344
(a) Ordinary Shares
The ordinary shares have no par value and all ordinary shares are fully paid-up and rank equally as to dividends and
liquidation, with one vote attached to each fully paid ordinary share.
(b) Share Options
2010 option grants
Throughout 2010 the Company granted 72,517,351 options in conjunction with monthly conversions of convertible
notes under the facility described in note 12. The options have a term of 4 years from their grant date and are
exercisable into ordinary shares on a one-for-one basis with exercise prices ranging from A$0.0163 to A$0.0337 per
share.
2009 and prior grants
On 23 December 2009 the Company granted 40,306,174 options (“December 2009 Placement Options”) in
conjunction with a private placement on that date. The options are exercisable into ordinary shares on a one-for-
one basis with an exercise price of A$0.0457 per share. The options expire on 23 December 2013.
On 4 December 2009 the Company granted 4,629,630 options (“December 2009 Conversion Options”) in
conjunction with partial conversion of a convertible note. The options are exercisable into ordinary shares on a one-
for-one basis with an exercise price of A$0.0389 per share. The options expire on 4 December 2013.
On 18 November 2009 the Company granted 20,000,000 options (“November 2009 Options”) in conjunction with
obtaining a convertible loan facility. The options are exercisable into ordinary shares on a one-for-one basis with an
exercise price of A$0.0445 per share. The options expire on 18 November 2013.
On 30 September 2008 the Company granted 750,000 options (“September 2008 Options”) for underwriting
services. The options are exercisable into ordinary shares on a one-for-one basis with an exercise price of A$0.15
per share. The options expired on 30 September 2010.
On 26 February 2008 the Company granted 3,000,000 options (“January 2008 Options”) for future consulting
services related to capital raising and financing activities. The options are exercisable into ordinary shares on a one-
for-one basis with an exercise price of A$0.25 per share. The options expire on 7 February 2011.
Oceania & Eastern Biotech Limited is an investment company associated with interests of Dr Robin Congreve and
held 1,528,892 options (the “O&E Options”). The O&E Options’ exercise price was a fixed sum of NZ$600,000,
exercisable into 1,528,892 ordinary shares (equivalent to NZ$0.392 per share). The options expired on 31 March
2009.
27
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
Auckland UniServices Limited (“UniServices”) is the commercial research and knowledge transfer company for the
University of Auckland and held 1,872,892 options (“UniServices Options”). The UniServices Options’ exercise price
was a fixed sum of NZ$735,000, exercisable into 1,872,892 ordinary shares (equivalent to NZ$0.392 per share). The
UniServices Options expired on 31 March 2009.
The above options were otherwise issued on terms and conditions not materially different to those of the Share
Option Plan described below.
Share Option Plan
The Company has established a Share Option Plan to assist in the retention and motivation of senior employees of,
and certain consultants to, the Company (“Participants”). Under the Share Option Plan, options may be offered to
Participants by the Remuneration and Audit Committee. The maximum number of options to be issued and
outstanding under the Share Option Plan is 15% of the issued ordinary shares of the Company at any time. No
payment is required for the grant of options under the Share Option Plan. Each option is an option to subscribe in
cash for one ordinary share, but does not carry any right to vote. Upon the exercise of an option by a Participant,
each ordinary share issued will rank equally with other ordinary shares of the Company. Options granted under the
Share Option Plan generally vest over three years service by the Participant and lapse five years after grant date.
Movements in the number of share options are as follows:
Consolidated and Parent
Outstanding at 1 January 2009
Granted
Expired
Outstanding at 31 December 2009
Granted
Expired
Weighted
Average
Exercise Price
(NZ$)
$
$
$
$
$
$
0.373
0.056
0.392
0.074
0.032
0.340
Options
22,587,627
64,935,804
(17,517,627)
70,005,804
98,517,351
(2,070,000)
Weighted
Average
Exercise Price
(NZ$)
Exercisable
22,387,627
$
0.373
70,005,804
$
0.074
Outstanding at 31 December 2010
166,453,155
$
0.048
166,453,155
$
0.048
The weighted average remaining contractual life of outstanding share options is as follows:
Consolidated and Parent
Options
2010
Weighted Average
Remaining
Contract Life
(years)
Exercise price range
NZ$0.392 – NZ$0.472
A$0.15 – A$0.25
A$0. 0389 – A$0.0457
A$0. 0163 – A$0.0337
-
3,000,000
64,935,804
98,517,351
166,453,155
-
0.2
2.9
3.7
3.4
2009
Weighted Average
Remaining
Contract Life
(years)
0.3
1.1
3.9
-
3.7
Options
1,320,000
3,750,000
64,935,804
-
70,005,804
The weighted average assessed fair value of options granted during the year determined using the Black-Scholes
valuation model was NZ$0.027 per option (2009: NZ$0.036). The significant weighted average inputs into the
model were a grant date share price of NZ$0.034 (2009: NZ$0.046), volatility of 139% (2009: 146%), dividend yield
of 0% (2009: 0%), an expected option life of 3.3 years (2009: 3.0 years), and an annual risk-free interest rate of
4.26% (2009: 4.23%). The expected price volatility was derived by analysing the historic volatility of the Company’s
shares since listing on the ASX.
28
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
14. Deferred tax
Deferred tax asset (liability)
Amounts recognised in profit or loss
Provisions and accruals
Property, plant and equipment
Intangible assets
Tax losses
Unrecognised deferred tax assets
Deferred tax asset (liability)
Movements
Deferred tax asset (liability) at the beginning of the year
Credited (charged) to the income statement (note 5)
Impact of loss of shareholder continuity
Exchange differences
Intra-group transfer
Change in unrecognised deferred tax assets
Deferred tax asset (liability) at the end of the year
Consolidated
Parent
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
64
12
(1,363)
22,376
21,089
(21,089)
-
-
911
568
(232)
-
(1,247)
-
13
10
(1,762)
21,580
19,841
(19,841)
-
-
2,081
(568)
(612)
-
(901)
-
64
12
(30)
17,361
17,407
(17,407)
-
-
770
568
-
(80)
(1,258)
-
13
10
(5)
16,130
16,148
(16,148)
-
-
675
(568)
-
-
(107)
-
Unrecognised tax losses of $1.3 million, $8.2 million, $10.4 million, $14.0 million, $17.5 million, $4.4 million and
$2.8 million expire in 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 respectively.
15. Subsidiaries
Investment in subsidiaries
(a)
The consolidated financial statements incorporate the assets, liabilities and results of the following subsidiaries in
accordance with the accounting policy described in note 2(b).
Name of entity
Date of
Principal
incorporation activities
Interest
held
Domicile
AgVentures Limited
NeuroendocrinZ Limited
7 October 2003
Dormant
10 July 2002
Dormant
100%
100%
NZ
NZ
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Inc.
20 August 2002
US Based Office
100%
USA
Hamilton Pharmaceuticals Inc.
2 April 2004
Clinical research
100%
USA
Neuren Pharmaceuticals (Australia) Pty Ltd 9 November 2006
Dormant
100%
Australia
Perseis Therapeutics Limited
25 March 2009
Preclinical research
72.2% NZ
Amount due to (from)
Parent
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
-
-
(41)
689
-
6
-
-
852
624
-
16
All subsidiaries have a balance date of 31 December, except Perseis Therapeutics which has a 31 March year end.
16. Commitments and contingencies
(a) Operating leases
The following aggregate future non-cancellable minimum lease payments for premises have been committed to by
the Company, but not recognised in the financial statements. The Company moved premises in June 2008 and the
new premises commitment is for a four year and four month lease commencing June 2008, with two two year
rights of renewal, followed by two five year rights of renewal, and three yearly rental reviews throughout.
Consolidated and Parent
Not later than one year
Later than one year and not later than five years
Later than five years
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
148
111
-
259
148
259
-
407
29
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
(b) Finance leases
The following aggregate future non-cancellable minimum lease payments for scientific equipment have been
committed to by the Company:
Consolidated and Parent
Not later than one year
Later than one year and not later than five years
Later than five years
Future finance charges
Total equipment finance (refer note 12)
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
-
-
-
-
-
12
-
-
12
(1)
11
(c) Legal claims
The Company has not entered into any collaborative arrangements and has no other significant legal contingencies
as at 31 December 2010. During 2008 a claim by a former employee for a share of any proceeds received on
commercialisation of a portion of the Neural Regeneration Peptides (NRP) intellectual property was lodged against
the Company. The Company disclaimed liability and the claim was withdrawn during 2009.
(d) Capital commitments
The Company is not committed to the purchase of any property, plant or equipment as at 31 December 2010
(2009: nil).
17. Related party transactions
(a) Key management and personnel
The key management personnel include the directors of the Company, the CEO, and direct reports to the CEO
Compensation for this group was as follows:
Consolidated and Parent
Directors’ fees and other short term benefits
CEO and management - short-term benefits
CEO and management - share-based payments
2010
NZ$’000
262
1,048
923
2,233
2009
NZ$’000
307
928
7
1,242
In December 2009, in conjunction with a shareholder approved private placement Dr Trevor Scott subscribed for
and was allotted 10,604,991 ordinary shares at A$0.0381 per share and 10,604,991 options over ordinary shares
with an exercise price of A$0.0457 per option.
(b) Subsidiaries
Interests in and amounts due from subsidiaries are set out in note 15. The Parent funds the activities of the
subsidiaries throughout the year through the intercompany accounts as needed. All amounts due between entities
in the Group are payable on demand and bear no interest. During the year ended 31 December 2010 the Parent
charged Perseis Therapeutics $56,000 (2009: $42,000) for monthly management and administrative services.
18. Events after balance date
As at the date of these financial statements there were no events arising since 31 December 2010 which require
disclosure.
19. Financial instruments and risk management
(a) Categories of financial instruments
Financial assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade receivables
Total financial assets (loans and receivables classification)
Financial liabilities
Amortised cost:
Trade and other payables
Equipment finance
Convertible notes
Total financial liabilities
Consolidated
Parent
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
1,956
56
2,012
2,257
-
598
2,855
4,232
347
4,579
3,093
11
490
3,594
653
29
682
1,399
-
598
1,997
1,695
330
2,025
2,700
11
490
3,201
30
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
(b) Risk management
The Company and its subsidiaries are subject to a number of financial risks which arise as a result of its activities.
Currency risk
During the normal course of business the Company and its subsidiaries enter into contracts with overseas
customers or suppliers or consultants that are denominated in foreign currency. As a result of these transactions
there is exposure to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. The Company also has a net investment in a foreign
operation, whose net assets are exposed to foreign currency translation risk.
The Group does not utilise derivative financial instruments. It operates a policy of holding cash and cash
equivalents in the currency of estimated future supplier payments, however it does not designate formal hedges
and as such remains unhedged against foreign currency fluctuations. A foreign exchange loss of $78,000 is
included in results for the year ended 31 December 2010 (2009: $203,000 gain).
The carrying amounts of foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities are as follows:
Assets
US dollars
Australian dollars
UK pounds
Liabilities
US dollars
Australian dollars
UK pounds
Consolidated
Parent
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
6,001
467
16
1,228
822
261
9,297
622
17
1,345
993
153
733
467
16
530
822
137
1,495
622
17
958
990
153
The following table details the Group's sensitivity to a 10% increase and decrease in each of the currencies noted
against the New Zealand dollar as at the reporting date.
Decrease (increase) in loss after income tax
10% strengthening of NZ dollar against:
US dollar
Australian dollar
UK pound
10% weakening of NZ dollar against:
US dollar
Australian dollar
UK pound
Consolidated
Parent
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
285
32
22
(348)
(39)
(27)
(139)
31
12
170
(44)
(15)
(18)
32
11
23
(39)
(13)
(49)
31
12
60
(44)
(15)
Foreign currency denominated transactions occur consistently throughout the year. In management's opinion, the
sensitivity analysis set out above is unrepresentative of the inherent foreign exchange risk as the year end
exposure does not reflect the exposure during the year.
Interest rate risk
The Company and the Group are exposed to interest rate risk as entities in the Group hold cash and cash
equivalents and borrow interest bearing funds.
The effective interest rates on financial assets are as follows:
Financial assets
Cash and cash equivalents
New Zealand dollar cash deposits
New Zealand dollar interest rate
US dollar cash deposits
US dollar interest rate
Australian dollar cash deposits
Australian dollar interest rate
Consolidated
Parent
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
2010
NZ$’000
2009
NZ$’000
234
3.6%
1,080
0.9%
442
4.2%
1,265
3.4%
2,079
1.1%
580
3.1%
120
3.6%
-
-
442
4.2%
981
3.4%
-
-
580
3.1%
The Company and Group’s effective interest rates on financial liabilities are set out in note 12. Trade and other
receivables and payables do not bear interest and are not interest rate sensitive.
31
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
The Company and Group’s interest bearing financial assets bear interest at overnight deposit rates and accordingly
any change in interest rates would have an immaterial effect on reported loss after tax. Similarly, the Company and
Group’s financial liabilities are at fixed or no interest rates, and accordingly a change in market interest rates would
have no effect on reported loss after tax.
Credit risk
The Company and its subsidiaries incur credit risk from transactions with trade receivables and financial institutions
in the normal course of its business. The credit risk on financial assets of the Group, which have been recognised
in the statement of financial position, is the carrying amount, net of any allowance for doubtful debts.
The Company and its subsidiaries do not require any collateral or security to support transactions with financial
institutions. The counterparties used for banking and finance activities are financial institutions with high credit
ratings.
Liquidity risk
The maturities for the Company and Group’s interest bearing financial liabilities are set out in note 12. The
Company and Group’s other financial liabilities, comprising trade and other payables, are generally repayable within
1 – 2 months, and are managed together with capital risk as noted below.
Capital risk
The Company manages its capital to ensure that constituent entities are able to continue as a going concern. The
capital structure of the group consists of cash and cash equivalents, convertible notes and equity of the parent,
comprising issued capital, reserves and accumulated deficit.
20. Going concern assumption
In the year ended 31 December 2010 the Group reported a net loss for the year of $6,445,000, and at year end had
cash balances of $1,956,000. Whilst the Directors are continuing to monitor the Group’s cash position and on an
ongoing basis initiatives to ensure adequate funding continues to be available for the Group to meet its business
objectives, the Directors’ consider that global economic circumstances continue to present significant challenges
in terms of the Group’s ability to raise additional financing.
As previously announced the Group is in discussions with a number of parties concerning equity placements and
partnering arrangements. No agreement has been reached as to terms, including price, in any of the discussions.
There is no guarantee that the discussions will culminate in binding agreements. However, based on negotiations
conducted to date the Directors have a reasonable expectation that they will proceed successfully, but if not the
Group will need to secure additional funding from alternative sources.
The Group continues to receive grant funding from the US Army, covering direct costs associated with the Phase 2
clinical trial of NNZ-2566. In addition, development of the Group’s second lead candidate Motiva® is progressing
under grant funding to the Principal Investigator at Fremantle Hospital, Perth by the National Health and Medical
Research Council (Australia), and the cancer research and development within the Group’s subsidiary Perseis
continues to be funded by the Breast Cancer Research Trust (New Zealand).
Notwithstanding this, the Directors’ have concluded that the combination of these factors represent a material
uncertainty that casts significant doubt upon the Group’s and the Company’s ability to continue as a going
concern. If no funds are raised before the cash balances have been exhausted, the Group may cease to be a going
concern and the Group may be unable to continue in operational existence. Nevertheless after making enquiries,
and considering the uncertainties described above, the Directors’ have a reasonable expectation that the Group
and Company have adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. For these
reasons, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing these financial statements. These financial
statements do not include any adjustments relating to the recoverability and classification of recorded asset
amounts or to the amounts and classification of liabilities that may be necessary should the Group be unable to
continue as a going concern.
32
Independent Auditors’ Report
to the Shareholders of Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
Report on the Financial Statements
We have audited the financial statements of Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited on pages 14 to 32, which comprise
the statements of financial position as at 31 December 2010, the statements of comprehensive income,
statements of changes in equity and cash flow statements for the year then ended, and the notes to the financial
statements that include a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory information for both
the Company and the Group. The Group comprises the Company and the entities it controlled at 31 December
2010 or from time to time during the financial year.
Directors’ Responsibility for the Financial Statements
The Directors are responsible for the preparation of these financial statements in accordance with generally
accepted accounting practice in New Zealand and that give a true and fair view of the matters to which they relate
and for such internal controls as the Directors determine are necessary to enable the preparation of financial
statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
Auditors’ Responsibilities
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit. We conducted our
audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (New Zealand) and International Standards on
Auditing. These standards require that we comply with relevant ethical requirements and plan and perform the
audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free from material misstatement.
An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the
financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditors’ judgement, including the assessment of the
risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk
assessments, the auditor considers the internal controls relevant to the Company and Group’s preparation of
financial statements that give a true and fair view of the matters to which they relate, in order to design audit
procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the
effectiveness of the Company and Group’s internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness
of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates, as well as evaluating the overall
presentation of the financial statements.
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit
opinion.
We have no relationship with, or interests in, Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited or any of its subsidiaries other than
in our capacities as auditors, taxation advisors and providers of other assurance services. These matters have not
impaired our independence as auditors of the Company and Group.
Fundamental uncertainty
In forming our unqualified opinion, we have considered the disclosures made concerning the carrying values of
intellectual property, and the ongoing need to fund the operating losses and future development of the Company’s
products. The ultimate realisation of the carrying values of intellectual property totalling $5,121,000 (after
amortisation) is dependent on the Company successfully developing its products so that it generates future
economic benefits to the Company. Details of the circumstances relating to these inherent uncertainties are
detailed in note 1.
The financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, the validity of which depends on future
capital and or debt being available to fund the development of products and other working capital requirements of
the Company. Details of the circumstances relating to this fundamental uncertainty are detailed in note 20.
If the Company was unable to continue as a going concern for the foreseeable future or if the future economic
benefits to be generated from intellectual property were less than their carrying amounts, adjustments would have
to be made to reflect the situation that the assets may need to be realised at other than amounts at which they are
currently recorded in the Statement of Financial Position.
33
Opinion
In our opinion, the financial statements on pages 14 to 32:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
comply with generally accepted accounting practice in New Zealand;
comply with International Financial Reporting Standards; and
give a true and fair view of the financial position of the Company and the Group as at 31 December 2010,
and their financial performance and cash flows for the year then ended.
Report on Other Legal and Regulatory Requirements
We also report in accordance with Sections 16(1)(d) and 16(1)(e) of the Financial Reporting Act 1993. In relation to
our audit of the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2010:
(i)
(ii)
we have obtained all the information and explanations that we have required; and
in our opinion, proper accounting records have been kept by the Company as far as appears from an
examination of those records.
Restriction on Distribution or Use
This report is made solely to the Company’s shareholders, as a body, in accordance with Section 205(1) of the
Companies Act 1993. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the Company’s shareholders
those matters which we are required to state to them in an auditors’ report and for no other purpose. To the fullest
extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Company and the
Company’s shareholders, as a body, for our audit work, for this report or for the opinions we have formed.
Chartered Accountants, Auckland
30 March 2011
34
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
Additional Information
Equity Securities Held by Directors as at 14 March 2011
Director
Direct
Indirect
Direct
Indirect
Interests in
Ordinary Shares
Interests in
Options
R L Congreve
T D Scott
J D Wilson
G B Howie
J Holaday
Shareholding
-
-
-
50,000
-
22,386,224
16,694,126
135,000
55,000
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
10,604,991
-
-
-
Each ordinary share is entitled to one vote when a poll is called; otherwise on a show of hands at a general
meeting every member present in person or by proxy has one vote.
The number of ordinary shareholdings held in less than marketable parcels at 14 March 2011 was 1,070, holding
9,792,193 ordinary shares.
The following information is presented based on share registry information processed up to and including 14
March 2011.
Distribution of Shareholders
Analysis of numbers of ordinary shares by size of holding:
Number of
Shareholders
Number of
Ordinary Shares
1 – 1,000
1,001 – 5,000
5,001 – 10,000
10,001 – 100,000
100,001 and over
138
318
281
786
381
1,904
29,635
1,205,541
2,366,556
33,357,064
396,629,536
433,588,332
Distribution of Optionholders
Analysis of numbers of options by size of holding:
Number of
Optionholders
Number of
Options
1 – 1,000
1,001 – 5,000
5,001 – 10,000
10,001 – 100,000
100,001 and over
-
-
-
-
7
7
-
-
-
-
167,864,920
167,864,920
Substantial Security Holders who have notified the Company
as at 14 March 2011 are:
Number of
Ordinary Shares
CNF Investments LLC and associates
SpringTree Special Opportunities Fund, LP
There are no securities subject to escrow.
23,188,005
Not disclosed
35
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
Twenty Largest Holders of ordinary shares:
Number of Ordinary
Shares
%
Holding
HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited
Essex Castle Limited
HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited
K One W One Limited
J P Morgan Nominees Australia Limited
Merrill Lynch (Australia) Nominees Pty Limited
J P Morgan Nominees Australia Limited
National Nominees Limited
Citicorp Nominees Pty Limited
Oceania & Eastern Biotech Limited
Mr Mladen Marusic
Pfizer Inc.
Centralo Limited
TAC Murray & Quartet Equities Limited
Hazardous Investments Limited
Waterview Custodian Limited
Mr He Zhao
Mr Roger Scott Alter
Mr Craig William Manners
Jarden Custodians Limited
Mr Robert Albert Boas
52,439,440
24,014,208
23,188,005
19,305,865
16,988,517
11,909,338
11,849,396
11,444,059
10,378,257
10,283,956
9,207,666
8,081,438
5,962,754
5,556,366
4,940,566
4,300,000
4,000,000
4,000,000
3,825,000
3,181,497
2,580,403
247,436,731
12.09
5.54
5.35
4.45
3.92
2.75
2.73
2.64
2.39
2.37
2.12
1.86
1.38
1.28
1.14
0.99
0.92
0.92
0.88
0.73
0.60
57.07
Australian Stock Exchange Disclosures
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited is incorporated in New Zealand under the Companies Act 1993.
The Company is not subject to Chapters 6, 6A, 6B and 6C of the Corporations Act, Australia, dealing with the
acquisition of shares (such as substantial holdings and takeovers).
Limitations on the acquisition of shares are imposed by the following New Zealand legislation: Companies Act
1993, Securities Act 1978, Securities Amendment Act 1988, Takeovers Act 1993, Overseas Investment Act 1973,
Commerce Act 1986 and various regulations and codes promulgated under such Acts.
Corporations Act, Australia - Directors’ declaration
The Directors of Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited (“Neuren”) declare that:
1. The financial statements on pages 14 to 32 of Neuren and its subsidiaries for the year ended 31 December
2010 and the notes to those financial statements:
(a) comply with the accounting standards issued by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of New Zealand;
and
(b) give a true and fair view of the financial position as at 31 December 2010 and of the performance for the
year ended on that date of Neuren and its subsidiaries.
2.
In the Directors’ opinion there are reasonable grounds to believe that Neuren will be able to pay its debts as
and when they become due and payable.
This declaration is made in accordance with a resolution of the Board of Directors dated 30 March 2011.
On behalf of the Board
Dr Robin Congreve
Chairman
36
ANNUAL REPORT 2010
Neuren Pharmaceuticals Limited
ARBN 111 496 130
Level 2, 57 Wellington Street
Freemans Bay, Auckland
New Zealand
Tel: +64 9 3700 200
Email: enquiries@neurenpharma.com
www.neurenpharma.com