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RaySearch Laboratories

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FY2017 Annual Report · RaySearch Laboratories
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ANNUAL REPORT

2017

Year Ended March 31, 2017
Stingray Digital Group Inc.

table of content

03 Word from the CEO 06 Management’s  
Discussion and Analysis 08 Company Profile 
10 Business Strategy 18 Competitive Strength 
20 Key Business Risks  22 Executive Team and 
Board of Directors  49 Consolidated Financial 
Statements 

word from 
the CEO

Dear shareholders, clients, partners and colleagues,

Fiscal  2017  caps  our  first  decade  on  a  high  note!  While  there 

is no proven recipe or how-to guide to success, I have learned 

in Stingray’s first ten years that creativity, meticulous analysis 

of  market  demands,  technological 

innovation,  and  bold 

exploration of new ideas should always be part of the equation.

A Year in Acquisitions 
In  an  industry  where  consolidation  is  the  watchword,  and 

where  growth  and  scale  define  success,  acquiring  premium 

quality music content is one of Stingray’s primary development 

strategies and key differentiators.

In  June  2016,  we  closed  the  acquisition  of  Festival  4K,  one  of 

the  first  television  channels  to  broadcast  entirely  in  native 

4K  UHD.  Since  rebranded  since  as  Stingray  Festival  4K,  the 

channel complements Stingray’s existing 4K offering, Stingray 

Ambiance  4K,  putting  us  resolutely  at  the  forefront  of  the  4K 

revolution.  That  same  month,  we  announced  the  acquisition 

of  four  (4)  specialty  music  video  channels  from  Bell  Media: 

MuchLoud, MuchRetro, MuchVibe and Juicebox. These channels 

have already garnered interest from pay TV providers wishing 

This  year,  we’ve  once  again  met  our  key  objectives  through 

to reconnect with diverse demographics.

a  combination  of  strategic  acquisitions, 

technological 

development,  expanded  distribution  agreements,  diversified 
client base, exciting marketing initiatives, and, of course, expert 

music content curation.

I  am  proud  to  share  another  solid  performance  in  Fiscal  2017. 

In  October,  we  grew  our  classical  music  offering  with  the 

acquisition of hundreds of exclusive concerts and documentaries 

from  Berlin-based  EuroArts,  an 

internationally  renowned 

producer  and  distributor  of  classical  music  film  productions. 

This  agreement  will  benefit  our  services  for  years  to  come  and 

Stingray’s  dedicated  team  outdid  itself,  breaking  the  $100 

exponentially grow our linear and On Demand offering.

million  revenue  mark.  Revenue  increased  by  12.8%,  reaching 

$101.5  million  (compared  to  $89.9  million  in  Fiscal  2016.)  We 

achieved  a  strong  operating  performance  with  an  Adjusted 
EBITDA(1) of $33.9 million and net income of $10.7 million ($0.21 
per share). Furthermore, we achieved cash flow from operating 
activities  of  $22.8  million  and  an  adjusted  free  cash  flow(1)  of 
$26.5 million. We continued to raise our dividends and returned 

over $8.2 million to you, our shareholders. 

In  the  past  twelve  months,  we’ve  grown  our  offering  by  an 

astounding  nine  (9)  brands:  Stingray  Brava,  Stingray  DJAZZ, 

Stingray  Classica,  Stingray  Festival  4K,  Stingray  iConcerts, 

Stingray Juicebox, Stingray Vibe, Stingray Loud, and Stingray 

New and Expanded Distribution Agreements
If  there  is  one  thing  I  am  particularly  proud  of,  it  is  the  long-

term relationships we have built with our clients in 156 countries  

servicing  over  400  million  households  and  74,000  commercial 

locations.  This  year  alone,  we  renewed  and/or  expanded 

agreements with eight (8) European pay-TV providers: Vodafone 

Portugal,  Orange  Polska,  Vodafone  España,  UPC  Hungary, 

T-Mobile Netherlands, United Group Balkans, Sat-Trakt Doo and 

PT Telecom Hungary. These strategic deals represent a significant 

growth of Stingray’s current European distribution, increasing our 

potential reach by more than one million subscribers. We have 

also  signed  a  renewed  and  expanded  distribution  agreement 

Retro. We have proven, beyond a doubt, our ability to integrate 

with Shaw, a key player in the Canadian market. 

and  bring  to  market  new  acquisitions  quickly  and  efficiently; 

creating a more valuable Stingray for our internal and external 

stakeholders.

With  an  enviable  portfolio  of  16  distinct  yet  complementary 

services, Stingray is uniquely positioned to respond to demand 

from  entertainment  content  providers  and  commercial  clients 

As our global reach grows alongside demand for curated, “lean 

back”  music  products,  we  look  to  the  Asia-Pacific  region  as  a 

major  growth  market.  Only  five  (5)  months  after  the  opening 

of  a  Stingray  office  in  Singapore,  we  concluded  distribution 

agreements with StarHub and Singtel for a range of services that 

includes  Stingray  Music,  Stingray  iConcerts,  Stingray  Brava, 

wishing to implement impactful music and customer experience 

Stingray DJAZZ, and Stingray Karaoke.

strategies.

I  can  say  with  confidence  that  the  stage  is  set  for  continued 

growth and diversification in the years to come.

In July, we signed a multi-year contract renewal with the National 

Cable Television Cooperative (NCTC). In October, KlowdTV - an 

online subscription platform for streaming television - chose to 

include Stingray Music’s audio channels in its basic subscription 
package. In July, we signed a multi-year contract renewal with 

the National Cable Television Cooperative (NCTC). In October, 

KlowdTV  -  an  online  subscription  platform  for  streaming 

television - chose to include Stingray Music’s audio channels in 

its basic subscription package. We also renewed and expanded 

a distribution agreement with Comcast, bringing thousands of 
new music selections to Xfinity On Demand platforms. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 3 

 
Our  commercial  division,  Stingray  Business,  also  reached  major 

milestones this year. We rolled out in-store music and digital signage 

services  in  thousands  of  locations  across  Canada.  Amongst  the 

commercial  clients  signed  or  renewed  this  year:  Couche-Tard,  La 

Source, Opa!, CDMV, Chapters Indigo, New Look Eyewear, and Telus. 

Our  ability  to  adapt  to  an  evolving  technological  landscape  and 

adjust our product offering to state-of-the-art distribution platforms 

are  key  to  Stingray’s  continued  success.  In  the  coming  years,  we 

expect to sign distribution agreements with prominent OTT providers, 

mobile operators, and commercial clients.

Marketing Initiatives
In order to fully benefit from the cross-selling and cross-promotional 

opportunities offered by each new acquisition, services are rapidly 

reintroduced  under  the  Stingray  brand.  Through  inspiring  product 

design and effective, multi-platform marketing strategies, we aspire 

to the highest levels of B2B and B2C brand awareness that will make 

Stingray  ubiquitous  in  the  market.  This  year,  our  team  completed, 

in  record  time,  the  rebranding  of  Stingray  Brava,  Stingray  DJAZZ, 

Stingray Juicebox, Stingray Loud, Stingray Vibe, Stingray Retro and 

Stingray Festival 4K. We also introduced the refreshed look and feel 

of our flagship brand, Stingray Music.

Giving Back
With success comes a responsibility to give back to our community. 

Of  all  our  achievements,  the  one  that  truly  marks  this  year  for  me 

is  our  first  campaign  benefiting  Centraide  of  Greater  Montreal,  a 

network  of  350  agencies  that  help  individuals  and  families  break 

social  isolation  and  build  caring  communities.  Through  a  series 

of  initiatives  supportedby  the  entire  Stingray  family,  we  raised 

$100,000, far exceeding our initial objective.

Thank you
I wish to take this opportunity to thank our 350 talented employees 

around the world for their passion, support, and drive to excellence. 

Without each and every one of you, we would not reach the ambitious 

goals we set for ourselves. I also wish to acknowledge the unwavering 

support and vision of Stingray’s board and executive team.

Thank you!

As  I  look  to  the  year  ahead,  I  am  confident  that  together  we  will  

continue to realize our mission with ambition, a sense of purpose, and 

unrivaled innovation.

Eric Boyko
President, Co-founder and CEO

$101.5 M

12.8% from 2016
Revenues

$10.7 M

Or $0.21 per share
Net income

$33.9 M

9.2% from 2016
33.4% margin 1
Adjusted EBITDA 1

$22.8 M

20.0% from 2016
Cash flow from 
operating activities

$26.5 M

8.7% from 2016
Adjusted free cash flow 1

1  Refer  to  “Forward  looking  statements”  and  “Supplemental 
information  on  Non-IFRS  measures”  on  page  24  and  for 
reconciliations  to  the  most  directly  comparable  IFRS  financial 
measure,  refer  to  “Supplemental 
information  on  Non-IFRS 
measures” on page 29.

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 4 

  
‘‘Our ability to adapt to 
an evolving technological 
landscape and adjust 
our product offering 
to state-of-the-art 
distribution platforms 
are key to Stingray’s 
continued success.’’

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 5 

management’s 
discussion and 
analysis

The following is the annual report and Management’s 
Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) of the results of 
operations and financial position of Stingray Digital 
Group Inc. (“Stingray” or “the Corporation”), and 
should be read in conjunction with the Corporation’s 
consolidated audited financial statements and 
accompanying notes for the years ended March 31, 2017 
and 2016. This MD&A reflects information available to the 
Corporation as at June 7, 2017. Additional information 
relating to the Corporation is also available on SEDAR 
at www.sedar.com

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 6 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 7 

company profile

Stingray Digital Group Inc. is the world-leading provider of multiplatform music services and digital experiences  
for pay TV operators, commercial establishments, OTT providers, mobile operators, and more. 

Clients in 156 countries trust our comprehensive product portfolio and content curation expertise to develop and 
implement powerful music and customer experience strategies that help achieve business objectives.

Every day, more than 400 million households and 11,000 commercial clients enjoy one or many Stingray services.

company highlights

HEADQUARTERS
Montreal, Canada

OFFICES 
United States, United Kingdom, Netherlands, Germany, 
Israel, Singapore, Australia, Japan and South Korea

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 8 

‘‘In an industry where 
consolidation is the 
watchword, and 
where growth and 
scale define success, 
acquiring premium 
quality music content 
is one of Stingray’s 
primary development 
strategies and key 
differentiators.’’

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 9 

Our long-term objective is to aggressively continue growing Stingray’s business and create value to 

investors. We believe that we can achieve our goals by expanding and diversifying our client base, by 

developing new products, technologies, and digital platforms, and by continuing to pursue strategic 

acquisitions.

business strategy

Our long-term objective is to aggressively continue growing Stingray’s business and create value 
to investors. We believe that we can achieve our goals by expanding and diversifying our client 
base, by developing new products, technologies, and digital platforms, and by continuing to pursue 
strategic acquisitions.

Expand and diversify our client and partner base

Stingray’s continued global success is due in great part to leveraging our  
clients’ trust and providing them with the highest level of services. This year,  
we continued to grow and strengthen our customer base and the distribution 
of our services.

1

New Clients

Renewed and Expanded Contract Agreements

COMCAST

VOO

VODAFONE

T-MOBILE

SINGTEL

STARHUB

ORANGE

SHAW

ZIGGO

HOT

MEGACABLE

TELEVISA

FOXTEL

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 10 

Develop new products, technologies and 
digital platforms

Stingray invests overs $10 million in research and development each year. To 
maintain our position as the world-leading multi-platform music products and 
services provider, we strive to constantly be at the cutting-edge of technology.

2

Highlights

Introduce second generation of UBIQUICAST  
allowing multi-product distribution 

Release of 2,000 Vibes channels in the Stingray 
Music mobile app which has now over 1.6 million 
downloads

Launch of SB3, allowing simultaneous distribution 
of digital display and HD music 

Introduction of Stingray Pass, a proprietary  
audio-watermarking technology

Launch of Stingray Music mobile app on tablet 
and Sonos

Acquisition of Festival 4K, one of the first channels 
in the world to broadcast nonstop in native 4K UHD.

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 11 

Continue to pursue strategic acquisitions

Stingray has a track record of acquiring established, dynamic, and creative 
companies and partnering with industry leaders to achieve its aggressive 

global expansion plan.3

Highlights

Stingray is now the world’s largest digital live music concerts TV broadcaster

Stingray diversified its product offering and expanded its European distribution

Stingray is now a world-leading provider of classical music content on television

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 12 

‘‘With an enviable 
portfolio of 16 distinct yet 
complementary services, 
Stingray is uniquely 
positioned to respond to 
demand from entertainment 
content providers and 
commercial clients wishing 
to implement impactful 
music and customer 
experience strategies.’’

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 13 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 14 

proven 
acquisition strategy

$202

million spent 
on acquisitions since inception

Stingray became the undisputed world-
leading provider of classical music 
programming, demonstrating our ability  
to act as an industry consolidator.

2009

Canadian Broadcast Corp. (Galaxie)

2010

Marketing Senscity Inc.

MaxTrax Music Ltd.

Concert TV Inc.

Chum Satellites Services (CTV)

2007

Slep-Tone Entert. Corp/ 
SoundChoice 
(Karaoke Channel)

2011

Music Choice International Ltd.

2012

Musicoola Ltd.

2013

Executive Communication

Zoe Interactive Ltd.

Emedia Networks Inc.

2014

DMX LATAM (Mood Media)

Archibald Media Group

Stage One Innovations Ltd.

DMX Canada (Mood Media)

Intertain Media Inc

Telefonica – On the Spot

2015

2016

Les réseaux Urbains Viva Inc.

Nümedia

Brava Group (HDTV, NL and Djazz TV)

Festival 4K B.V.

Digital Music Distribution

iConcerts Group

Bell Media’s specialty  
music video channels

EuroArts Classical catalogue

2017

Classica

Nature Vision TV

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 15 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 16 

Canada.  Australia.  United  Kingdom.  United  States. 

Netherlands.  Japan.  Russian  Federation.  Germany. 

Norway. 

Ireland.  Finland.  Togo.  France.  Belgium. 

China.  Denmark.  Zambia.  Taiwan.  Iceland.  Austria. 

Suriname. San Marino. Peru. Cayman Islands. Czech 

Republic.  Venezuela.  Curacao.  Congo.  Pakistan. 

Portugal.  Monaco.  Nigeria.  Estonia.  Nepal.  Mexico. 

Brazil.  Ukraine.  Nicaragua.  Equatorial  Guinea. 

Uganda.  El  Salvador.  Dominican  Republic.  Bahamas. 

Ecuador. Montenegro. Cyprus. Cameroon. Argentina. 

Panama. Mongolia. Bolivia. Mauritania. Bahrain. Chile. 

Angola.  Kazakhstan.  Hungary.  United  Arab  Emirates. 

Costa  Rica.  Croatia.  Egypt.  Indonesia.  Ivory  Coast. 

Mali.  Singapore.  Colombia.  Madagascar.  Namibia. 

Honduras.  Uruguay.  Burkina  Faso.  Guatemala. 

Macedonia. 

Romania.  Macau. 

Luxembourg. 

Liechtenstein.  Lebanon.  Oman.  Malta.  Korea.  India. 

Hong  Kong.  Mozambique.  Gabon.  Morocco.  Puerto 

Rico.  Holy  See.  Haiti.  Greece.  Senegal.  Georgia. 

French  Guiana.  Tanzania.  Viet  Nam.  Paraguay.  East 

Timor.  Malaysia.  Qatar.  Mauritius.  Congo.  Anguilla. 

Korea. Philippines. Reunion. Chad. St Martin. Central 

African  Republic.  Sudan.  Brunei  Darussalam.  Italy. 

Guadeloupe.  Bhutan.  Grenada.  Benin.  Montserrat. 

Belarus.  Bangladesh.  Israel.  Jamaica.  Andorra.  New 

Caledonia. Martinique. Slovenia. Papua New Guinea. 

Bulgaria. Barbados Serbia. Rwanda. Slovakia. Guinea-

Bissau.  Poland.  Latvia.  Kenya.  Saint  Vincent  and  the 

Grenadines.  Libya.  Kuwait.  Ethiopia.  Eritrea.  Cape 

Verde.  Burundi.  Grand  Cayman.  Turks  and  Caicos. 

Turkey.  Tunisia.  Trinidad  and  Tobago.  Lithuania. 

Thailand. Switzerland. Spain. South Africa. Saint Kitts 

and Nevis. Botswana. Bosnia and Herzegovina. Aruba. 

Armenia. Azerbaijan.

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 17 

competitive  
strengths

We believe that the following competitive strengths will contribute to our ongoing commercial success 
and future performance:

Leading B2B multi-platform 
music and in-store media 
solutions provider

Strong and predictable cash 
flow from long-term contracts 
and client relationships

With 400 million subscribers in 
156 countries, our total reach 
is one of the largest relative to 
our peers. Our products and 
services are distributed through 
numerous platforms including 
digital TV, satellite TV, IPTV, the 
Internet, mobile devices, Wi-Fi 
systems, and game consoles.

Our business model is based 
on subscription revenues and 
long-term agreements with pay-
TV providers, which gives us 
significant predictability of future 
cash flow, reduces cyclicality of 
earnings, and increases customer 
retention. As a result, we have 
established deeply integrated 
relationships with many of our 
customers, providing recurring 
annual revenues of $87.6 million  
at the end of Fiscal 2017 (86.3%  
of our total revenue).

Proprietary innovative 
technologies

We are a leader and innovator 
in the digital music space, 
and as such have developed 
a unique set of proprietary 
technologies that provide us 
with an important competitive 
advantage. 

We have extensive experience 
in developing technologies 
to distribute digital music on 
multiple platforms such as TV, 
mobile devices, and the Web. 
For instance, we introduced 
a second generation of 
UBIQUICAST allowing multi-
product distribution and a third 
generation of our Commercial 
platform – the SB3 allowing 
simultaneous distribution of 
digital display and HD music.

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 18 

High employee retention  
rate and low turn-over

As an entrepreneurial and 
growing Canadian company, 
we attract and retain talented 
professionals. Our team of 
350 dedicated individuals is 
comprised of experienced and 
knowledgeable operations, 
financial, technology, marketing 
and communications, sales, and 
legal and regulatory experts 
who, prior to joining Stingray, 
garnered extensive experience 
with other industry leaders.

Track record of successful 
acquisitions and integrations

Leading content 
curation expertise

Since Stingray’s inception in 
2007, we have completed 29 
acquisitions representing outlays 
of approximately $202 million, 
which brought new clients, new 
products and new geographical 
markets to our business. In Fiscal 
2017, we have completed five 
(5) acquisitions for an aggregate 
purchase value of $21 million.

Stingray’s proven track record 
of successfully integrating 
these acquisitions is a result of 
our experienced management 
team’s rigorous and disciplined 
acquisition strategy. The 
versatility, portability and 
flexibility of Stingray’s products 
and technologies permit us 
to efficiently integrate and 
support the complementary 
products and technologies of the 
businesses we acquire.

Our business strategy is based 
on a lean-back, rather than lean 
forward, music consumption 
model. Stingray provides 
some of the world’s most 
comprehensive music libraries 
and channels, all programmed 
by 100 expert programmers 
around the world. Our music 
products and services are 
adapted to local tastes and 
trends to create the ultimate 
user experience, all without 
advertisements or interruptions.
In Fiscal 2017, we became the 
undisputed leading provider of 
classical music programming 
worldwide. With the acquisition 
of Classica, we will have 
unfettered and privileged access 
to UNITEL’s exclusive catalogue 
of more than 1,500 titles and 
2,000 hours of premium content 
that perfectly complements 
Stingray’s existing world-class 
classical music offering, which 
includes the recently-acquired 
440 titles from EuroArts and 
the Brava TV channel. Those 
transactions will accelerate 
our growth and strengthen our 
relationship with cutting-edge 
providers that are always on the 
lookout for new and exciting 
content.

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 19 

key 
business risks

The key risks and uncertainties of our business drive our operating strategies. Additional risks and 
uncertainties not presently known to us, or that we currently consider immaterial, may also affect us. 
If any of the events identified in these risks and uncertainties were to occur, Stingray’s business, 
financial condition and results of operations could be materially harmed.

For further discussion of the significant risks we face, refer to the Annual Information Form for the year 
ended March 31, 2017 on page 18 available on SEDAR at sedar.com.

Our key risks, in terms of severity of consequence and likelihood, are displayed as follows:

Public performance 
and mechanical rights 
and royalties

We pay public performance 
and mechanical royalties to 
songwriters and publishers 
through contracts negotiated 
with labels and music rights 
collection societies in various 
parts of the world. If public 
performance or mechanical 
royalty rates for digital music 
are increased, our results 
of operations and financial 
performance and condition 
may be adversely affected. We 
mitigate this risk by operating, 
whenever possible, under 
statutory licensing regimes 
and structures applicable to a 
non-interactive music services.  
The royalty rates to be paid 
pursuant to statutory licenses 
can be established by either 
negotiation or through a rate 
proceeding conducted by the 
Copyright Board; such royalty 
rates are generally stable and 
are not likely to fluctuate from 
year to year.

Integrating business 
acquisitions

Long-term plan to expand 
into international markets

The Corporation has made or 
entered into, and will continue 
to pursue, various acquisitions, 
business combinations and joint 
ventures intended to complement 
or expand our business. The 
Corporation may encounter 
difficulties in integrating acquired 
assets with our operations. 
Furthermore, the Corporation 
may not realize the benefits, 
economies of scale and synergies 
we anticipated when we entered 
into these transactions. To 
mitigate this risk, the Corporation 
has committed to develop and 
improve our operational, financial 
and management controls, 
enhance our reporting systems 
and procedures and recruit, train 
and retain highly skilled personnel, 
all of which will enable the 
Corporation to properly leverage 
our services into new markets, 
platforms and technologies.

A key element of our growth 
strategy is to continue to 
expand our operations into 
international markets. For Fiscal 
2017, approximately 45% of 
our revenue is derived from 
customers outside of Canada. 
Operating in international 
markets requires significant 
resources and management 
attention and will subject 
us to regulatory, economic 
and political risks that are 
different from those in Canada. 
To mitigate this risk, the 
Corporation has committed 
to develop and improve our 
operational, financial and 
management controls, enhance 
our reporting systems and 
procedures and recruit, train and 
retain highly skilled personnel, 
all of which will enable the 
Corporation to continue to 
expand into international 
markets. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 20 

Dependence on  
Pay-TV providers 

Rapid growth in an 
evolving market

Competition from other 
content providers

The majority of the Stingray 
Music pay-TV subscriber base is 
reached through a small number 
of significant pay-TV providers 
who are all under long-term 
contracts. Packaging decisions 
made by pay-TV providers in 
respect of service offerings can 
impact the subscriber base. 
Moreover, the contractual 
obligations of pay-TV providers 
in Canada to distribute Stingray 
Music are subject to changes 
in CRTC rules, including the 
CRTC’s new policy framework 
set forth in Broadcasting 
Regulatory Policy CRTC 2015-
96. See “Recent Developments 
in the 2017 AIF”.  We mitigate 
this risk by understanding 
the business needs of pay-
TV providers and offering 
compelling services, distributed 
across multiple platforms 
and proprietary technologies, 
with a demonstrable value 
proposition. Based on our 
strong relationships and our 
interpretation of the long-term 
contracts with pay-TV providers,  
Stingray expects that all 
Canadian pay-TV providers will 
continue to carry Stingray’s pay-
audio service on the most widely 
distributed unregulated first-tier 
package (where available).

The audio and video 
entertainment industry is 
rapidly evolving. The market 
for online digital music and 
videos has undergone rapid 
and dramatic changes in our 
relatively short history and is 
subject to significant challenges. 
In addition, our growth in 
certain markets could be 
impeded by existing contractual 
undertakings with competitors 
which forbid us to solicit 
customers in such markets. To 
mitigate this risk, our skilled and 
experienced sales personnel 
have placed a greater emphasis 
on cross-selling our growing 
suite of products and our 
capable engineers continue 
to innovate and develop new 
products and proprietary 
technologies to distribute digital 
music, which in turn allows us 
to attract and retain customers 
and expand our service offering 
on multiple digital platforms 
beyond the TV.  To manage 
the growth of our operations 
and personnel, we continue 
to improve our operational, 
financial and management 
controls and our reporting 
systems and procedures.

The market for acquiring 
exclusive digital rights from 
content owners is competitive. 
Many of the more desirable 
music recordings are already 
subject to digital distribution 
agreements or have been 
directly placed with digital 
entertainment services. We 
face increasing competition for 
listeners and/or viewers from a 
growing variety of businesses 
that deliver audio and/or video 
media content through mobile 
phones and other wireless 
devices. The growth of social 
media could facilitate other 
forms of new entry that will 
compete with the Corporation. 
To mitigate this risk, the 
Corporation continues to rely 
upon human programming and 
content curation by award-
winning music experts from 
around the world, each of whom 
adapt to the tastes and trends 
of listeners in order to create 
the ultimate user experience. 
In addition, the Corporation 
remains determined to create 
and acquire original long-form 
content in order to grow its 
proprietary catalogue.

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 21 

executive 
officers

Eric Boyko 
President, CEO, Co-founder 
and Director

Jean-Pierre Trahan 
Chief Financial Officer

Lloyd Feldman 
Senior Vice-President, 
Corporate Secretary 
and General Counsel

Marie Ginette Lepage 
Senior Vice-President, Global 
Sales and Mobile Solutions

Mario Dubois 
Senior Vice-President and 
Chief Technology Officer

Mathieu Péloquin 
Senior Vice-President, 
Marketing and 
Communications

Sébastien Côté 
Vice-President, 
Human Resources

Stephen Tapp 
Senior Vice President, 
Business Development

Ratha Khuong 
General Manager, 
Stingray Business

Valéry Zamuner 
Senior Vice-President, 
Mergers, Acquisitions & 
Strategic Initiatives

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 22 

non-executive  
directors

Claudine Blondin 
Director and Member of 
the Corporate Governance 
Committee

François-Charles Sirois 
Chairman of the Board of 
Directors and Member of the 
Human Resources and  
Compensation Committee

Gary S. Rich 
Director and Chairman of 
the Human Resources and 
Compensation Committee

L. Jacques Ménard 
Director and Chairman of 
the Audit Committee

Jacques Parisien 
Lead Director and 
Chairman of the Corporate 
Governance Committee

Mark Pathy 
Director and Member of 
the Human Resources and 
Compensation Committee

Pascal Tremblay 
Director and Member of 
the Corporate Governance 
Committee and the Audit 
Committee

Robert G. Steele 
Director and Member of the 
Audit Committee

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 23 

BASIS OF PREPARATION AND FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS 

The following is the annual financial report and Management’s Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) of the results of operations and financial position of 
Stingray Digital Group Inc., (“Stingray” or “the Corporation”), and should be read in conjunction with the Corporation’s audited consolidated financial 
statements and accompanying notes for the years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016. This MD&A reflects information available to the Corporation as at 
June 7, 2017. Additional information relating to the Corporation is also available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.  

This MD&A contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. This forward-looking information includes, 
but is not limited to, statements with respect to management’s expectations regarding the future growth, results of operations, performance and business 
prospects  of  the  Corporation.  This  forward-looking  information  relates  to,  among  other  things,  our  objectives  and  the  strategies  to  achieve  these 
objectives, as well as information with respect to our beliefs, plans, expectations, anticipations, estimations and intentions, and may also include other 
statements that are predictive in nature, or that depend upon or refer to future events or conditions. Statements with the words “could”, “expect”, “may”, 
“will”, “anticipate”, “assume”, “intend”, “plan”, “believes”, “estimates”, “guidance”, “foresee”, “continue” and similar expressions are intended to identify 
statements containing forward looking information, although not all forward-looking statements included such words. In addition, any statements that 
refer  to  expectations,  projections  or  other  characterizations  of  future  events  or  circumstances  contain  forward-looking  information.  Statements 
containing forward-looking information are not historical facts but instead represent management’s expectations, estimates and projections regarding 
future events.  

Although management believes the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are based 
on the opinions, assumptions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made, and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties 
and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. These factors 
include, but are not limited to the following risk factors : increases in royalties or restricted access to music rights; our dependence on Pay-TV providers; 
the rapidly evolving audio and video entertainment industry; competition from other content providers; the expansion of our operations into international 
markets; our  rapid  growth  and  our growth  strategy;  our acquisitions, business combinations  and joint ventures;  our dependence on key  personnel; 
exchange  rate  fluctuations;  economic  and  political  instability  in  emerging  countries;  royalty  calculation  methods;  rapid  technological  and  industry 
changes; unavailability of additional funding; failure to generate cash revenues; reliance on our credit facilities; costly and protracted litigation in defence 
of copyrighted content; our inability to protect our proprietary technology; our reliance on third party hardware, software and related services; our inability 
to maintain our corporate culture; unfavourable economic conditions; our exposure to foreign privacy and data security laws; unauthorized and pirated 
music  and  video  content;  natural  catastrophic  events  and  interruption  by  man-made  problems;  additional  income  tax  liabilities;  maintaining  our 
reputation;  litigation  and  other  claims;  credit  risk;  liquidity  risk;  failure  to  comply  with  the  Canadian  Radio-television  and  Telecommunications 
Commission  (CRTC)  requirements;  failure  to  maintain  or  renew  our  CRTC  licences;  the  increase  in  broadcasting  licence  fees  payable  by  us; 
unfavourable changes in government regulation affecting our industry. 

In addition, if any of the assumptions or estimates made by management prove to be incorrect, actual results and developments are likely to differ, and 
may differ materially, from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements contained in this MD&A. Such assumptions include, but are 
not  limited  to,  the  following:  our  ability  to  generate  sufficient  revenue  while  controlling  our  costs  and  expenses;  our  ability  to  manage  our  growth 
effectively; the absence of material adverse changes in our industry or the global economy; trends in our industry and markets; the absence of any 
changes  in  law,  administrative  policy  or  regulatory  requirements  applicable  to  our  business,  including  any  change  to  our  licences  with  the  CRTC; 
minimal changes to the distribution of the pay audio services by Pay-TV providers in light of recent CRTC policy decisions; our ability to manage risks 
related to international expansion; our ability to maintain good business relationships with our clients, agents and partners; our ability to expand our 
sales and distribution infrastructure and our marketing; our ability to develop products and technologies that keep pace with the continuing changes in 
technology, evolving industry standards, new product introductions by competitors and changing client preferences and requirements; our ability to 
protect our technology and intellectual property rights; our ability to manage and integrate acquisitions; our ability to retain key personnel; and our ability 
to raise sufficient debt or equity financing to support our business growth. Accordingly, prospective purchasers are cautioned not to place undue reliance 
on such statements. All of the forward-looking information in this MD&A is qualified by these cautionary statements. Statements containing forward-
looking information contained herein are made only as of the date of this MD&A. The Corporation expressly disclaims any obligation to update or alter 
statements containing any forward-looking information, or the factors or assumption underlying them, whether as a result of new information, future 
events or otherwise, except as required by law. 

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION ON NON-IFRS MEASURES 

The Corporation believes that Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin are important measures when analyzing its operating profitability without 
being influenced by financing decisions, non-cash items and income taxes strategies. Comparison with peers is also easier as companies rarely have 
the same capital and financing structure. The Corporation believes that Adjusted net income and Adjusted net income per share are important measures 
as it demonstrates its core bottom-line profitability. The Corporation believes that Adjusted free cash flow is an important measure when assessing the 
amount  of  cash  generated  after  accounting  for  capital  expenditures  and  non-core  charges.  It  demonstrates  cash  available  to  make  business 
acquisitions,  pay  dividend  and  reduce  debt.  The  Corporation  believes  that  Net  debt  including  and  excluding  contingent  consideration  and  balance 
payable on business acquisitions and Net debt to Adjusted EBITDA are important measures when analyzing the significance of debt on the Corporation’s 
statement of financial position. Each of these non-IFRS financial measures is not an earnings or cash flow measure recognized by IFRS and does not 
have  a standardized  meaning  prescribed  by IFRS.  Our method  of  calculating such financial measures  may differ from the methods  used  by  other 
issuers and, accordingly, our definition of these non-IFRS financial measures may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. 
Investors are cautioned that non-IFRS financial measures should not be construed as an alternative to net income determined in accordance with IFRS 
as indicators of our performance or to cash flows from operating activities as measures of liquidity and cash flows. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 24 

 
 
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS(1) 

For the year ended March 31, 2017: 

$101.5 M 

▲ 12.8% from 2016 

$87.6 M 

▲ 12.9% from 2016 

Revenues 

Recurring revenue 

$33.9 M 

▲ 9.2% from 2016 
33.4% margin 
Adjusted EBITDA(1) 

$26.5 M 

▲ 8.7% from 2016 
Adjusted 
free cash flow(1) 

45% 
Of international 
revenues 

$0.18 

▲ 28.6% from 2016 
Annual dividend per 
share 

$10.7 M 

▼ 22.8% from 2016 
Or $0.21 per share 
Net income 

$22.8 M 

▲ 20.0% from 2016 
Cash flow from  
operating activities 

Note: 
(1)  Refer to “Supplemental information on Non-IFRS measures” on page 24 and 29. 

For the years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016: 

Recurring Revenues(1)(2)(3)

$89.9

$101.5 

Net Income and 
Adjusted EBITDA(1)(2)

$33.9

$31.0

CF from operating activities 
and 
Adjusted free cash flow(1)(2)

$26.5

$24.4

$22.8

$19.0

$77.6

$87.6

$13.9

$10.7

2016

2017

Net income

Non-recurring revenues

Recurring revenues

Adjusted
EBITDA

CF from
operating
activities

Adjusted free
cash flow

2016

2017

2016

2017

In millions of Canadian dollars. 

Notes: 
(1) 
(2)  Refer to “Supplemental information on Non-IFRS measures” on page 24 and 29. 
(3)  Recurring revenues include subscriptions and usage in addition to fixed fees charged to our customers on a monthly, quarterly and annual basis 

for continuous music services. Non-recurring revenues mainly include support, installation, equipment and one-time fees. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 25 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FINANCIAL AND BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS 

Highlights of the year ended March 31, 2017 

Compared to the year ended March 31, 2016 (“Fiscal 2016”): 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues increased 12.8% to $101.5 million from $89.9 million for Fiscal 2016; 

Recurring revenues of $87.6 million (86.3% of total revenues), an increase of 12.9%; 

International revenues increased 24.6% to $45.4 million and the revenue contribution increased to 44.7% from 40.5%; 

Adjusted EBITDA(1) increased 9.3% to $33.9 million from $31.0 million for Fiscal 2016; 

Adjusted EBITDA margin(1) was 33.4% compared with 34.5% for Fiscal 2016;  

Net  income  was  $10.7  million  ($0.21  per  share  diluted)  compared  to  $13.9  million  ($0.29  per  share  diluted)  for 

Fiscal 2016; 

 

Adjusted Net income(1) increased 12.3% to $27.3 million ($0.53 per share diluted) compared to $24.3 million ($0.50 per 

share diluted) for Fiscal 2016;  

 

 

 

 

Cash flow from operating activities increased 20.0% to $22.8 million compared to $19.0 million for Fiscal 2016; 

Adjusted free cash flow(1) increased 8.6% to $26.5 million compared to $24.4 million for Fiscal 2016; 

Net debt excluding contingent consideration and balance payable on business acquisitions increased to $35.2 million 

compared to $31.8 million for Fiscal 2016; and  

Annual dividend increased 28.6% to $0.18 per share 

Highlights of the fourth quarter ended March 31, 2017 

Compared to the fourth quarter ended March 31, 2016 (“Q4 2016”): 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues increased 3.3% to $26.5 million from $25.7 million for Q4 2016; 

Recurring revenues of $22.7 million (85.6% of total revenues), an increase of 3.8%; 

The contribution of International revenues was 47.2% compared to 47.4% for Q4 2016; 

Adjusted EBITDA(1) increased 10.1% to $9.0 million from $8.2 million for Q4 2016; 

Adjusted EBITDA margin(1) was 34.1% compared with 32.0% for Q4 2016;  

Net income increased 41.9% to $4.6 million ($0.09 per share diluted) compared to $3.2 million ($0.06 per share diluted) 

for Q4 2016; 

 

Adjusted Net income(1) increased 47.9% to $10.5 million ($0.20 per share diluted) compared to $7.1 million ($0.14 per 

share diluted) for Q4 2016;  

Cash flow from operating activities increased 40.4% to $10.8 million compared to $7.7 million for Q4 2016; and 

Adjusted free cash flow(1) increased 24.7% to $8.0 million compared to $6.4 million for Q4 2016. 

 

 

Note: 

(1)  Refer to “Forward looking statements” and “Supplemental information on Non-IFRS measures” on page 24 and for reconciliations to the most directly 

comparable IFRS financial measure, refer to “Supplemental information on Non-IFRS measures” on page 29. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 26 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Additional business highlights for the fourth quarter and subsequent events: 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On  May 26, 2017, the Corporation announced that it had acquired the classical and cinematic music video television 
channel called C Music Entertainment Ltd 

On May 16, 2017, the Corporation confirmed that, amongst all streaming music services, it is the only one dedicated to 
promoting Canadian talent. With a reach of 90% of the Canadian market (10 million households), Stingray’s efforts result 
in incomparable visibility for Canadian artists. Close to 15,000 Canadian artists and bands are broadcast on Stingray 
Music channels on TV, mobile, and the web. 

On May 9, 2017, the Corporation announced that it had acquired Israel-based Yokee Music Ltd., provider of three (3) 
social music apps regularly ranked in the music category’s top 10 in 100 countries: Yokee Karaoke, Yokee Guitar, and 
Yokee Piano. Together, the apps have reached over 80 million downloads in four (4) years and count 4 million monthly 
users, with over 50% year-over-year growth. 

On  April  28,  2017, the  Corporation  declared  a  dividend  of  $0.045  per subordinate  voting share,  variable  subordinate 
voting share and multiple voting share, totaling $2.3 million that will be payable on or around June 15, 2017 to holders of 
subordinate voting shares, variable subordinate voting shares and multiple voting shares on record as of May 31, 2017. 

On April 14, 2017, the Corporation announced it had extended its exclusive distribution agreement with leading Australian 
pay TV provider, Foxtel for an additional five (5) years and three (3) months. In addition to the selection of audio music 
channels currently available  on  television,  Foxtel  residential  subscribers  will  soon have  access  to  the  Stingray  Music 
mobile app and web player. 

On  March  3,  2017,  the  Corporation  announced  the  acquisition  of  Nature  Vision  TV  (“Nature  Vision”), a  24/7  channel 
available online and on television. Nature Vision TV complements Stingray’s existing Slow TV programming, Stingray 
Ambiance 4K, available as a linear television channel and Video On Demand to Pay-TV providers worldwide. 

On February 7, 2017, the Corporation confirmed product launches with Vodafone Portugal, Orange Polska, Vodafone 
España, UPC Hungary, T-Mobile Netherlands, United Group Balkans, Sat-Trakt Doo, and PT Telecom Hungary. These 
strategic deals represent a significant growth in Stingray’s current European distribution; increasing its potential reach by 
more than one million subscribers. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 27 

 
 
 
 
SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION 

(in thousands of Canadian dollars) 
Revenues 
Recurring Revenues 

Revenues 
Music programming, cost of services 

and content 

Selling and marketing 
Research and development, support 

and information technology 

General and administrative 
IPO expenses and CRTC tangible 

benefits 

Depreciation and amortization and 

write-off 

Net finance expenses (income) (3) 
Change on fair value of investments 
Income before income taxes 
Income taxes 
Net income 

Quarters ended March 31 
2016 
2017 
Q4 2016 
Q4 2017 
26,502  100.0 %  25,658  100.0  %  101,501  100.0 % 
85.0  %  87,612  86.3 % 
22,683  85.6 %  21,860 

2017 
Fiscal 2017 

Years ended March 31 
2016 
Fiscal 2016 
89,944 100.0  %  70,989 100.0 % 
77,587  86.3  %  63,535  89.5  % 

2015 
Fiscal 2015 

26,502  100.0 %  25,658  100.0  %  101,501  100.0 % 

89,944 100.0  %  70,989 100.0 % 

9,125  34.4 % 
3,302  12.5 % 

9,053 
3,387 

35.3  %  35,270  34.7 % 
13.2  %  12,338  12.2 % 

31,407  34.9  %  23,283  32.8  % 
8,010  11.3  % 
10,435  11.6  % 

2,324 
8.8 % 
6,385  24.1 % 

2,254 
3,957 

8,960 
8.8  % 
8.8 % 
15.4  %  19,016  18.7 % 

7,613 

5,973  8.4  % 
13,247  14.7  %  10,089  14.2  % 

8.5  % 

– 

– % 

21 

0.1  % 

– 

– % 

5,821 

6.5  % 

– 

–  % 

4,619  17.4 % 
3.8 % 
1,006 
1.3 % 
334 
(593)  (2.2) % 
(5,201) (19.6) % 
4,608  17.4 % 

3,218 
836 
1,113 
1,819 
(1,428) 
3,247 

12.5  %  17,168  16.9 % 
2,036 
2.0 % 
3.3  % 
(408)  (0.4) % 
4.3  % 
7.0 % 
7,121 
7.1  % 
(3,596)  (3.5) % 
(5.6) % 
14.1  %  10,717  10.6 % 

15,028  16.7  %  14,979  21.1  % 
4,686  6.6  % 
(1,801) (2.5) % 
5,770  8.1  % 
(837) (1.2)  % 
6,607  9.3  % 

(418) 
(0.5) % 
(7,345) 
(8.2) % 
14,156  15.7  % 
0.3  % 
13,881  15.4  % 

275 

Adjusted EBITDA (1) 
9,046  34.1 % 
Adjusted Net income (1) 
10,534  39.7 % 
Adjusted free cash flow (1) 
7,991  30.2 % 
Cash flow from operating activities  10,826  40.8 % 

8,219 
7,135 
6,415 
7,709 

32.0  %  33,864  33.4 % 
27.8  %  27,310  26.9 % 
25.0  %  26,511  26.1 % 
30.0  %  22,766  22.4 % 

31,004  34.5  %  27,275  38.4  % 
24,309  27.0  %  17,834  25.1  % 
24,384  27.1  %  17,037  24.0  % 
9,908  14.0  % 
18,968  21.1  % 

Net income per share basic 
Net income per share diluted 

Adjusted Net income per share basic(1) 
Adjusted Net income per share diluted(1)

0.09 
0.09 

0.21 
0.20 

0.06 
0.06 

0.14 
0.14 

0.21 
0.21 

0.53 
0.53 

0.29 
0.29 

0.51 
0.50 

0.20 
0.19 

0.54 
0.53 

Revenue by category 
Music Broadcasting 
Commercial Music 
Revenues 

Revenues by geography 
Canada 
International (4) 
Revenues 

Financial position 
Total assets 
Total non-current financial liabilities 
Net debt excluding contingent 
consideration and balance 
payable on business 
acquisitions (Net debt) (1) 

Net debt to Adjusted EBITDA(1)(2) 
Cash dividends and distributions 

declared per share 

19,708  74.4 %  19,425 
6,233 

75.7  %  74,900  73.8 % 
24.3  %  26,601  26.2 % 
26,502  100.0 %  25,658  100.0  %  101,501  100.0 % 

6,794  25.6 % 

66,172  73.6  %  53,499  75.4  % 
23,772  26.4  %  17,490  24.6  % 
89,944 100.0  %  70,989 100.0 % 

14,000  52.8 %  13,500 
52.6  %  56,129  55.3 % 
47.4  %  45,372  44.7 % 
12,502  47.2 %  12,158 
26,502  100.0 %  25,658  100.0  %  101,501  100.0 % 

53,536  59.5  %  47,738  67.2  % 
36,408  40.5  %  23,251  32.8  % 
89,944 100.0  %  70,989 100.0 % 

194,292 
54,080 

177,075 
43,879 

125,170 
75,549 

35,178 
1.04x 

0.13 

31,834 
1.03x 

0.13 

107,423 
3.94x 

0.59 

Notes: 
(1)  Refer to “Forward looking statements” and “Supplemental information on Non-IFRS measures” on page 24 and for reconciliations to the most directly 

comparable IFRS financial measure, refer to “Supplemental information on Non-IFRS measures” on page 29. 

(2)  Net debt to Adjusted EBITDA consists of Net debt including contingent considerations and balance payable on business acquisitions divided by Adjusted 

EBITDA.  
Interest paid during the Q4 2017 was $269 (Q4 2016; $244) and $1,107 for the year ended March 31, 2017 (2016 - $1,426) 
International means all jurisdictions except Canada. 

(3) 
(4) 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 28 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION ON NON-IFRS MEASURES 

Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA margin, Adjusted Net income, Adjusted Net income per share, Adjusted free cash flow, 
Net  debt  including  contingent  consideration  and  balance  payable  on  business  acquisitions,  Net  debt  excluding  contingent 
consideration and balance payable on business acquisitions and Net debt to Adjusted EBITDA are non-IFRS measures that 
the Corporation uses to assess its operating performance. See “Supplemental information on Non-IFRS Measures” on page 
24.  

The following tables show the reconciliation of Net income to Adjusted EBITDA: 

(in thousands of Canadian dollars) 

Net income 
Net finance (income) expenses  
Change in fair value of investments 
Income taxes 
Depreciation of property and equipment and write-off 
Amortization of intangibles 
Stock-based compensation 
Restricted and deferred share unit expenses 
IPO expenses and CRTC tangible benefits 
Acquisition, legal, restructuring and other various costs 
Adjusted EBITDA 
Net finance (income) expenses  
Income taxes 
Depreciation of property and equipment and write-off 
Income taxes related to change in fair value of 

investment, share-based compensation, restricted 
and deferred share unit expenses, amortization of 
intangible assets, IPO expenses and CRTC tangible 
benefits and acquisition, legal, restructuring and other 
various costs 

Adjusted Net income 

Quarters ended March 31 

2017 
Q4 2017 

2016 
Q4 2016 

4,608 
1,006 
334 
(5,201) 
724 
3,895 
372 
688 
– 
2,620 
9,046 
(1,006) 
5,201 
(724) 

3,247 
836 
1,113 
(1,428) 
594 
2,624 
390 
319 
21 
503 
8,219 
(836) 
1,428 
(594) 

Years ended March 31 
2016 
2017 
Fiscal 2016 
Fiscal 2017 
13,881 
10,717 
(418) 
2,036 
(7,345) 
(408) 
275 
(3,596) 
2,146 
2,418 
12,882 
14,750 
1,351 
1,332 
963 
2,008 
– 
5,821 
1,448 
4,607 
31,004 
33,864 
418 
(2,036) 
(275) 
3,596 
(2,146) 
(2,418) 

(1,983) 
10,534 

(1,082) 
7,135 

(5,696) 
27,310 

(4,692) 
24,309 

The following table shows the reconciliation of Cash flow from operating activities to Adjusted free cash flow: 

(in thousands of Canadian dollars) 

Cash flow from operating activities 
Add / Less : 
Capital expenditures 
Net change in non-cash operating working capital items 
Acquisition, legal, restructuring and other various costs 
IPO expenses and CRTC tangible benefits 
Adjusted free cash flow 

Quarters ended March 31 

2017 
Q4 2017 

2016 
Q4 2016 

Years ended March 31 
2016 
2017 
Q4 2016 
Q4 2017 

10,826 

7,709 

22,766 

18,968 

(522) 
(4,933) 
2,620 
– 
7,991 

(1,100) 
(718) 
503 
21 
6,415 

(3,233) 
2,371 
4,607 
– 
26,511 

(3,429) 
1,576 
1,448 
5,821 
24,384 

The following table shows the calculation of Net debt including and excluding contingent consideration and balance 
payable on business acquisitions: 

(in thousands of Canadian dollars) 

Contingent consideration and balance payable on business acquisitions, 

including current portion 

Revolving facility 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Net debt including contingent consideration and balance payable on 
business acquisitions 
Contingent considerations and balance payable on business acquisitions, 

including current portion 

Net debt excluding contingent consideration and balance payable on 
business acquisitions (“Net Debt”) 

March 31,  
2017 

March 31,  
2016 

18,801 

41,040 
(5,862) 

53,979 

12,496 

35,035 
(3,201) 

44,330 

(18,801) 

(12,496) 

35,178 

31,834 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 29 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS 
FOR THE YEARS ENDED MARCH 31, 2017 AND 2016 

Revenues 

Revenues in Fiscal 2017 increased 12.9% to $101.5 million, from $89.9 million for Fiscal 2016. The increase in revenues was 
primarily due to acquisitions combined with growth in international markets and commercial music in Canada.  

Trends by Revenue Categories were as follow: 

Revenues by category(1)

$74.9

$66.2

Music Broadcasting 

The most significant contributors to the increase of 13.1% or 
$8.7  million  from  Fiscal  2016  in  Music  Broadcasting 
revenues were as follows (arrows reflect the impact): 

▲  Acquisition  of  DMD  and  iConcerts  in  December  2015  and 

Classica in January 2017. 

▲  Organic  growth  in  international  markets,  primarily  Music 

Videos on Demand in United States. 

$23.8

$26.6

  Commercial Music 

The most significant contributors to the increase of 11.8% or 
$2.8 million from Fiscal 2016 in Commercial Music revenues 
were as follows (arrows reflect the impact): 

▲  Acquisition of Nümédia in February 2016. 

Music Broadcasting

Commercial Music

2016

2017

and existing customers. 

▲  Organic growth from recurring music services related to new 

Note: 
(1) 

In millions of Canadian dollars. 

Trends by Revenues by Geographic Region were as follows: 

Revenues by geography(1)

$53.5

$56.1

Canada 

The most significant contributors to the increase of 4.9% 
or $2.6 million from Fiscal 2016 in revenues for Canada 
were as follows (arrows reflect the impact): 

▲  Contribution  of  the  Nümédia  and  organic  growth  in 

$45.4

commercial music. 

$36.4

International 

The most significant contributors to the increase of 24.7% 
or $9.0 million from Fiscal 2016 in international revenues 
were as follows (arrows reflect the impact): 

▲  The  contribution  of  acquisitions 

in  Broadcast  as 
mentioned  above  and  organic  growth  related  to  Music 
Videos on Demand. 

Canada

International

2016

2017

Note: 
(1) 

In millions of Canadian dollars. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 30 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating Expenses 

(in thousands of Canadian 
dollars) 

Fiscal 
2017 
% of 
revenues 

Fiscal 
2016 
% of 
revenues 

Variance 

Significant contributions to 
variance : 

Music programming, cost 
of services and content 

$35,270 
34.7% 

$31,407 
34.9% 

$3,863 

12.3%  ▲ 

Primarily  due  to  recent  acquisitions, 
organic  growth  in  commercial  music 
and  content  costs  to  support  our 
international growth.  

Selling and marketing 

$12,338 
12.2% 

$10,435 
11.6% 

$1,903 

18.2%  ▲ 

Primarily  due  to  recent  acquisitions 
and salary costs  to support  revenue 
growth in international markets. 

Information Technology 
and Research and 
development 

$8,960 
8.8% 

$7,613 
8.5% 

$1,347 

17.7%  ▲ 

Primarily  due  to  additional  hiring 
related  to  international  expansion 
and  new  product  development 
initiatives. 

General and 
administrative  

$19,016 
18.7% 

$13,247 

14.7%   

$5,769 

43.5% 

▲ 

Primarily due to increased legal fees, 
restricted  and  performance  share 
for  employees  and 
unit  plans 
deferred share unit plan for directors 
and hiring new employees to support 
growth. 

Depreciation, 
amortization and write-off 

$17,168 
16.9% 

$15,028 
16.7% 

$2,140 

14.2%  ▲ 

Mainly related to  the amortization of 
client  lists  recognised  following  the 
acquisitions  of  DMD,  iConcerts  and 
Classica. 

Adjusted EBITDA(1)(2)

$31.0

$33.9

2016

2017

increased  9.2% 

Adjusted  EBITDA 
to 
in  Fiscal  2017 
$33.9 million,  from  $31.0 million  in  Fiscal  2016.  Adjusted 
EBITDA margin was 33.4% in Fiscal 2017 compared to 34.5% 
in Fiscal 2016. The increase in Adjusted EBITDA was primarily 
due to the recent acquisitions of DMD, iConcerts and Classica, 
and  to  organic  growth  in  commercial  music  in  Canada  and 
international  markets.  The  decrease  in  EBITDA  margin  was 
mainly  related  to  increased  salary  costs  to  support  revenue 
growth  in  international markets and  required ramp-up  period 
to realize synergies from acquisitions. 

Acquisition,  legal, restructuring and other various costs 
mainly  included  costs related  to  litigation  (see page 43)  and 
integration costs for our recent acquisitions 

Notes: 
(1) 
(2)  Refer to “Supplemental information on Non-IFRS measures” 

In millions of Canadian dollars. 

on page 24 and 29 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 31 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Initial public offering expenses and CRTC tangible benefits 

Initial public offering (“IPO”) expenses for Fiscal 2016 amounted to $1.6 million and were related to the secondary offering 
costs. The secondary offering consisted of the sales by Novacap and Télésystem of 9,112,900 shares in the aggregate to the 
public. IPO expenses for the treasury offering by the Corporation were recognized in the statement of financial position under 
share capital. 

The CRTC approved the change in ownership and effective control of the Corporation in connection with the IPO on April 22, 
2015. Pursuant to that decision, the CRTC required the Corporation to pay tangible benefits corresponding to an amount of 
$5.5 million over a seven-year period in equal annual payments. Since this expense does not meet capitalization criteria under 
IFRS, the Corporation recognized an expense of $4.2 million in Q1 2017, which reflects the fair value of the payment stream 
using a discount rate of 7.0%, which is the Corporation’s estimated effective interest rate, plus a risk premium. 

Net Finance (Income) Expenses  

Finance expenses increased to $2.0 million from an income of $0.4 million for Fiscal 2016. The increase was related to lower 
gains on revaluation of contingent consideration and balance payable on business acquisitions partially offset by lower interest 
expenses. The Corporation repaid approximately $101 million of its debt in June 2015 with the proceeds of the IPO. 

Change in fair value of investments 

For  Fiscal 2017,  a  gain  of  $0.4  million  was  recorded  compared  to  a  gain  of  $7.3  million  for  Fiscal 2016.  The  Corporation 
recognised a significant gain in Q2 2016 following an additional investment in AppDirect, a company that offers a cloud services 
marketplace and management platform that enables companies to distribute web-based services. 

Income Taxes 

Recovery of income taxes increased to $3.6 million for Fiscal 2017 from an income tax expense of $0.3 million for Fiscal 2016. 
The increase in income tax recovery was mainly related to the recognition of previously unrecognized tax losses of a foreign 
subsidiary. 

Net income and net income per share 

Net income decreased to $10.7 million ($0.21 per share diluted) 
in  Fiscal 2017  from  $13.9 million  ($0.29 per share  diluted)  in 
Fiscal 2016.  The  decrease  was  mainly  attributable  to  a  lower 
gain on fair value of investments, higher legal fees, lower gain 
on  revaluations  of  contingent  consideration  and  balances 
payable on business acquisitions, partially offset by lower IPO 
expenses  and  CRTC  tangible  benefits,  higher  income  tax 
recovery and higher operating results. 

Adjusted Net income and Adjusted Net income per share 

Adjusted Net Income in Fiscal 2017 increased to $27.3 million 
($0.53 per share  diluted)  from  $24.3 million  ($0.50 per share 
diluted) in Fiscal 2016. The increase was primarily due to higher 
income  tax  recovery  and  higher  Adjusted  EBITDA  resulting 
from recent acquisitions combined with organic growth offset by 
a negative change in fair value of contingent consideration and 
balance payables on business acquisitions. 

Net Income and 
Adjusted Net Income(1)(2)

$27.3

$24.3

$13.9

$10.7

Net income

Adjusted Net income

2016

2017

Notes: 
(1) 
(2)  Refer to “Supplemental information on Non-IFRS 

In millions of Canadian dollars. 

measures” on page 24 and 29. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 32 

 
 
 
 
 
Quarterly results 

Revenues increased over the last eight quarters from $19.9 million in the first quarter of Fiscal 2016 to $26.5 million in the last 
quarter of Fiscal 2017. The increase was mainly attributable to the successful integration of acquisitions and new contracts in 
international markets and in Canada. The sequential decrease in Q1 2017 and Q2 2017 of revenues compared to Q4 2016 
was  mainly  related  to  lower  non-recurring  revenues  in  Music  Broadcasting  and  the  unfavorable  foreign  exchange  impact 
between the Canadian dollar and the U.S. dollar. 

Adjusted  EBITDA  increased  from  $7.2  million  in  the  first  quarter  of  Fiscal  2016  to  $9.0  million  in  the  fourth  quarter  of 
Fiscal 2017. The increase was mainly attributable to the successful integration of acquisitions and new contracts signed. The 
decrease in Q1 2017 Adjusted EBITDA compared to Q4 2016 was mainly related to the decrease in non-recurring revenues 
in Music Broadcasting and incremental costs related to acquisitions with future synergies to be realized and the unfavorable 
foreign exchange impact between the Canadian dollar and the U.S. dollar. 

Net income (loss) fluctuated over the last eight quarters from a loss of $1.8 million in the first quarter of Fiscal 2016 to net 
income of $4.6 million in the last quarter of Fiscal 2017. In Q1 2016, the net loss was mainly attributable to the one-time IPO 
expense and CRTC tangible benefits expenses of $5.5 million offset by a related tax impact of $1.5 million. In Q2 2016, the 
most significant component of the increase was the recognition of a gain on fair value of investment of $7.5 million which was 
offset by a related tax impact of $1.0 million. Furthermore, a gain on fair value of contingent consideration and balance payable 
on business acquisitions of $1.1 million was also recognised. In Q4 2016, the Corporation recorded an income tax recovery 
on deferred tax assets related to tax losses of foreign subsidiaries of $3.4 million offset by the loss on fair value of investments 
of $1.1 million which was related to unfavorable foreign exchange between the Canadian dollar and the U.S. dollar as the 
investment  is denominated  in  U.S.  dollars.  In  Q4  2017,  the  Corporation  recorded  an  income  tax  recovery  on  deferred  tax 
assets related to tax losses of foreign subsidiaries of $5.1 million. 

Summary of Consolidated Quarterly Results 

(in thousands of Canadian dollars, 
except per share amounts) 

Revenue by category 
Music Broadcasting 
Commercial Music 
Total revenues 

Revenues by geography 
Canada 
International 
Total revenues 

Recurring revenues 
Recurring revenues as a 

March 31,  
2017 
Fiscal 
2017 

Dec. 31,  
2016 
Fiscal 
2017 

Sept. 30,  
2016 
Fiscal 
2017 

Quarters ended 
June 30,  
2016 
Fiscal 
2017 

March 31,  
2016 
Fiscal 
2016 

Dec. 31,  
2015 
Fiscal 
2016 

Sept. 30,  
2015 
Fiscal 
2016 

June 30,  
2015 
Fiscal 
2016 

19,708 
6,794 
26,502 

19,295 
6,630 
25,925 

18,009 
6,518 
24,527 

17,888 
6,659 
24,547 

19,425 
6,233 
25,658 

17,013 
6,076 
23,089 

15,614 
5,688 
21,302 

14,120 
5,775 
19,895 

14,000 
12,502 
26,502 

14,004 
11,921 
25,925 

14,045 
10,482 
24,527 

14,077 
10,470 
24,547 

13,500 
12,158 
25,658 

13,759 
9,330 
23,089 

13,094 
8,208 
21,302 

13,183 
6,712 
19,895 

22,683 

21,944 

21,584 

21,401 

21,860 

19,699 

18,785 

17,243 

percentage of total revenues 

85.6% 

84.6% 

88.0% 

87.2% 

83.7% 

85.3% 

88.2% 

86.7% 

Adjusted EBITDA 

9,046 

8,717 

8,220 

7,881 

8,219 

8,009 

7,625 

7,151 

Net income (loss) 

4,608 

2,660 

1,405 

2,044 

3,247 

3,169 

9,242 

(1,777) 

Net income (loss) per share 

basic 

Net income (loss) per share 

diluted 

0.09 

0.05 

0.03 

0.04 

0.06 

0.06 

0.18 

(0.05) 

0.09 

0.05 

0.03 

0.04 

0.06 

0.06 

0.18 

(0.05) 

Adjusted Net income 

10,534 

6,164 

5,405 

5,207 

7,135 

6,194 

6,198 

4,783 

Adjusted Net income per share 

basic 

Adjusted Net income per share 

diluted 

0.21 

0.12 

0.11 

0.10 

0.14 

0.12 

0.12 

0.12 

0.20 

0.12 

0.10 

0.10 

0.14 

0.12 

0.12 

0.12 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 33 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Reconciliation of Quarterly Non-IFRS Measures 

(in thousands of Canadian dollars) 

Net income (loss) 
Net finance (income) expenses  
Change in fair value of investment 
Income taxes 
Depreciation of property and 
equipment and write-off 
Amortization of intangibles 
Stock-based compensation 
Restricted and deferred share unit 

March 31,  
2017 
Fiscal 
2017 
4,608 
1,006 
334 
(5,201) 

Dec. 31,  
2016 
Fiscal 
2017 
2,660 
9 
(583) 
706 

Sept. 30,  
2016 
Fiscal 
2017 
1,405 
373 
(250) 
487 

Quarters ended 
June 30,  
2016 
Fiscal 
2017 
2,044 
648 
91 
412 

March 31,  
2016 
Fiscal 
2016 
3,247 
836 
1,113 
(1,428) 

Dec. 31,  
2015 
Fiscal 
2016 
3,169 
(810) 
(646) 
920 

Sept. 30,  
2015 
Fiscal 
2016 
9,242 
(1,310) 
(7,549) 
2,117 

June 30,  
2015 
Fiscal 
2016 
(1,777) 
866 
(263) 
(1,334) 

724 
3,895 
372 

574 
3,686 
372 

546 
3,982 
298 

574 
3,187 
290 

594 
2,624 
390 

609 
3,443 
369 

488 
3,592 
371 

455 
3,223 
221 

expenses 

688 

550 

444 

326 

319 

227 

242 

175 

IPO expenses and CRTC tangible 

benefits 

Acquisition, legal, restructuring 

and other various costs 

Adjusted EBITDA 
Net finance (income) expenses  
Income taxes 
Depreciation of property and 
equipment and write-off 

Income taxes related to change in 
fair value of investment, share-
based compensation, restricted 
and deferred share unit 
expenses, amortization of 
intangible assets, IPO expenses 
and CRTC tangible benefits and 
acquisition, legal, restructuring 
and other various costs 

Adjusted Net income 

– 

– 

– 

– 

21 

– 

305 

5,495 

2,620 
9,046 
(1,006) 
5,201 

743 
8,717 
(9) 
(706) 

935 
8,220 
(373) 
(487) 

309 
7,881 
(648) 
(412) 

503 
8,219 
(836) 
1,428 

728 
8,009 
810 
(920) 

127 
7,625 
1,310 
(2,117) 

90 
7,151 
(866) 
1,334 

(724) 

(574) 

(546) 

(574) 

(594) 

(609) 

(488) 

(455) 

(1,983) 
10,534 

(1,264) 
6,164 

(1,409) 
5,405 

(1,040) 
5,207 

(1,082) 
7,135 

(1,096) 
6,194 

(132) 
6,198 

(2,381) 
4,783 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 34 

 
 
 
 
 
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES 
FOR THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2017 

The Corporation’s primary sources of cash consist of operating activities and available borrowings under the Revolving Facility. 
The  Corporation’s  primary  uses  of  cash  are  to  fund  operations,  working  capital  requirements,  business  acquisitions,  capital 
expenditures and distributions to shareholders of the Corporation. The fluctuation of working capital requirements is primarily 
due to the non-recurring services and products, which revenues tend to peak in the third quarter of our financial year. Cash 
flows from recurring services and products are stable and predictable over the year and are our main source of cash inflows. 
The Corporation has a working capital deficiency as at March 31, 2017 and 2016. The Corporation met its obligations with its 
strong  cash flow  from operations and its ability to access financing from banks or existing  shareholders. In  Fiscal 2016, the 
Corporation  reduced  significantly  certain  current  and  non-current  liabilities.  The  Corporation  expects  to  continue  distributing 
dividends to the shareholders of the Corporation, and such dividends are expected to be funded by the cash flow generated 
from operating activities. 

CF from operating activities and 
Adjusted free cash flow(1)(2)

$26.5

$24.4

$22.8

$19.0

Cash flow from operating activities 

Cash  flow  generated  from  operating  activities  increased 
20.0% to $22.8 million in Fiscal 2017 from $19.0 million in 
Fiscal  2016.  The increase  was  mainly  due  to  acquisitions, 
international growth partially offset by higher net variation in 
non-cash working operating items and higher income taxes 
paid. 

Adjusted free cash flow 

Adjusted  free  cash  flow  increased  8.7%  to  $26.5  million  in 
Fiscal 2017 from $24.4 million in Fiscal 2016. The increase 
was mainly related to higher operating results, partially offset 
by higher income taxes paid. 

CF from operating
activities

Adjusted free cash
flow

2016

2017

Notes: 
(1) 
(2)  Refer to “Supplemental information on Non-IFRS 

In millions of Canadian dollars. 

measures” on page 24 and 29. 

Financing Activities 

Net cash flow used in financing activities amounted to $4.3 million for Fiscal 2017 compared to net cash flow generated from 
financing activities of $12.7 million for Fiscal 2016. The net change of $17.0 million was mainly attributable to the acquisition 
of Brava, DMD and iConcerts that were financed through the revolving facility in Fiscal 2016, to the net proceeds of the IPO, 
offset by higher payment of contingent consideration and balances payable on business acquisitions, the repayment of the 
term loan and bridge loan in Q1 2016 and higher dividend payments in Fiscal 2017. 

Investing Activities 

Net cash flow used in investing activities amounted to $15.8 million for Fiscal 2017 compared to $29.8 million for Fiscal 2016. 
The net change of $14.0 million was primarily related to the acquisitions of Nature Vision, Classica, EuroArts, Festival 4K and 
Bell’s Music Video Channels (Much Channels) for Fiscal 2017, compared to the acquisitions of Brava, DMD and iConcerts for 
Fiscal 2016, which represented higher outlays. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 35 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Contractual Obligations 

The Corporation is committed under the terms of contractual obligations with various expiration dates, primarily the rental of 
office space, financial obligations under our credit agreement, broadcast licence and commitments for copyright royalties. The 
following table summarizes the Corporation’s significant contractual obligations as at March 31, 2017, including its estimated 
payments and commitments related to leasing contracts: 

(in thousands of Canadian dollars) 
Commitments 
Operating lease agreements 
Financial obligations 
Revolving facility 
Accounts payables and accrued liabilities 
Other payables 
Total obligations 

Broadcast licence 

Less than 
1 year 

1–5 years 

More than 
5 years 

Total 
amount 

5,152 

9,223 

896 

15,271 

– 
29,783 
9,511 
44,446 

41,040 
– 
10,391 
60,654 

– 
– 
2,636 
3,532 

41,040 
29,783 
22,538 
108,632 

The CRTC requires Canadian pay audio services to draw certain proportions of their programming from Canadian content 
and, in most cases, to spend a portion of their revenues on Canadian content development. The Corporation must ensure that 
(i) a maximum of one non-Canadian pay audio channel is packaged or linked with each Canadian-produced pay audio channel 
and in no case may subscribers of the pay audio service be offered a package of pay audio channels in which foreign-produced 
channels dominate; (ii) 25% of all Canadian channels, other than those consisting entirely of instrumental music or of music 
entirely in languages other than English or French, devote a minimum of 65% of vocal music selections in the French language 
each broadcast week; and (iii) a minimum of 35% of the musical selections broadcast each broadcast week on our Canadian-
produced pay audio channels, considered together, are Canadian.  

Pursuant to the conditions of our National Pay Audio Service Licence, the Corporation is required to contribute each year a 
minimum of 4% of our annual Canadian regulated broadcast revenues to encourage Canadian content development in the 
following  manner:  (i)  1%  of  gross  revenues  to  be  devoted  to  the  Foundation  Assisting  Canadian  Talent  On  Recordings 
(FACTOR), a non-profit organization dedicated to providing assistance toward the growth and development of the Canadian 
music industry; (ii) 1% of gross revenues to be devoted to Musicaction, a non-profit organization dedicated to the development 
of local francophone music by offering financial support to projects by independent record labels and Canadian artists; (iii) 
1.8%  of  gross  revenues  to  be  devoted  to  our  Stingray  Rising  Star  Program,  a  program  which  was  created  to  discover, 
encourage, promote and champion new Canadian artists; and (iv) 0.2% of to be devoted to Community Radio Fund of Canada 
(CRFC), a fund that the mission is to build and improve campus and community radio for all Canadians through funding and 
collaborations. 

The  CRTC  approved  the  change  in  ownership  and  effective  control  of  the  Corporation  on  April  22,  2015.  Pursuant  to the 
decision, the CRTC requires the Corporation to pay tangible benefits corresponding to an amount of $5.5 million over a seven-
year period in equal annual payments. The Corporation recognized an expense of $4.2 million, which reflects the fair value of 
the payment stream using a discount rate of 7.0%, which is the Corporation’s effective interest rate plus a risk premium. On 
August 18, 2015, the CRTC issued a decision renewing until August 31, 2020 the broadcasting licence. 

During Fiscal 2017, an amount of $0.4 million ($0.4 million – 2016) was recognized as an expense in music programming, 
cost of services and content. 

Copyright royalties 

The Corporation must pay royalties for the use of music for the majority of its music services. Through copyright collective 
societies, the Corporation pays royalties to two sets of rights holders: (i) rights holders in music works, which are the music 
and the lyrics, and (ii) rights holders in artists’ performances and sounds recordings, which are the actual performances and 
recordings of the musical works. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 36 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Capital resources 

On November 17, 2016, the Corporation renegotiated its credit agreement in order to merge the outstanding balance of the 
term loan  into the  amended revolving credit facility  (“revolving  facility”), to  provide  for the  repayment  of the  bridge loan, to 
increase  its  borrowing  capacity  to  $100.0  million  and  to  make  modifications  in  relation  to  interest,  maturity,  security  and 
covenants. The revolving facility matures in June 2020, bears interest at an annual rate equal to the banker’s acceptance rate 
plus 1.50% and is secured by guarantees from subsidiaries and a first ranking lien on the universality of all its assets, tangible 
and intangible, present  and  future.  In  addition,  the Corporation incurs standby fees  of  0.30% on  the  unused portion of  the 
revolving facility. The Corporation is required to comply with financial covenants. As at March 31, 2017, the Corporation was 
in compliance with all the requirements of its credit agreement. 

The  following  table  summarizes  the  net  change  in  Net  debt  including  contingent  consideration  and  balance  payable  on 
business acquisitions that occurred in the year ended March 31, 2017 including related ratios: 

Movement in Net debt(1)(2)(3)

$8.2

$(20.1)

$15.3

$31.8

$35.2

As at March 31, 2016

Business and assets
acquisitions outlays and
holdbacks payments

Dividend payment

Remaining net change of
revolving facility and cash

As at March 31, 2017

$31.0 
1.03 

Adjusted EBITDA(1)(2)  
Net debt to Adjusted EBITDA(1)(2) 

$33.9 
1.04 

Notes: 
(1) 
(2)  Refer to “Supplemental information on Non-IFRS measures” on page 24 and 29. 

In millions of Canadian dollars. 

Off Balance-Sheet Arrangements 

The  Corporation  had  no  off-balance  sheet  arrangements,  other  than  operating  leases  (which  have  been  disclosed  under 
“Contractual Obligations”), that have, or are reasonably likely to have, a current or future material effect on its consolidated 
financial position, financial performance, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 37 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL POSITION  
AS AT MARCH 31, 2017 AND 2016 

The following table shows the main variances that have occurred in the consolidated financial position of the Corporation for 
the year ended March 31, 2017: 

(in thousands of Canadian dollars) 

March 31, 
2017 

March 31, 
2016 

  Variance 

Significant contributions 

to 

significant 
Attributable 
receivables 
recovered  offset  by 
receivables  from  acquisitions  and 
additional sales in international and 
commercial music in Canada. 

Mainly attributable to the recognition 
of  intangible assets  for acquisitions 
that occurred in Fiscal 2017, net of 
amortization. 

Mainly attributable to the recognition 
of  goodwill 
that 
occurred in Fiscal 2017. 

for  acquisitions 

on 

the 

to  payables 
Mainly  attributable 
assumed 
business 
acquisitions  that  occurred  in  Fiscal 
2017,  increase  in  RSU,  PSU  and 
DSU  expenses  and  increase  in 
operating expenses. 

to 
considerations 

the  payment  of 
Attributable 
contingent 
and 
balances  payable  on  business 
acquisitions  of  Archibald  Media 
Group, Brava Group and Telefonica 
– On the Spot, offset by recognition 
of Festival 4K B.V., Classica GmbH 
and  Nature  Vision 
contingent 
considerations and balance payable 
on business acquisitions. 

Attributable  to  cash  considerations 
for  acquisitions  that  occurred  in 
contingent 
2017 
Fiscal 
and 
consideration 
balances  payable  on  business 
acquisitions. 

and 
payments 

Trade and other receivables 

$27,020 

$28,597 

$(1,577)  ▼ 

Intangible assets 

$49,519 

$47,901 

$1,618  ▲ 

Goodwill 

$68,788 

$61,805 

$6,983  ▲ 

Accounts payable and accrued 
liabilities 

$29,783 

$26,636 

$3,147  ▲ 

Other payables 

$22,538 

$16,850 

$5,688  ▲ 

Revolving Facility 

$41,040 

$35,035 

$6,005  ▲ 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 38 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS 
FOR THE QUARTERS ENDED MARCH 31, 2017 AND 2016 

Revenues 

Revenues  for  the  quarter  ended  March  31,  2017  (“Q4  2017”)  increased  3.3%  to  $26.5  million,  from  $25.7  million  for  the 
Q4 2016.  The  increase  in  revenues  was  primarily  due  to  acquisition  of  Classica  and  Bell’s  Music  Video  Channels  (Much 
Channels) combined with international growth related to new products and organic growth for digital signage in Canada. 

Trends by Revenue Categories were as follow: 

Revenues by category(1)

$19.4

$19.7

Music Broadcasting 

The most significant contributors to the increase of 1.5% or 
$0.3 million from Q4 2016 in Music Broadcasting revenues 
were as follows (arrows reflect the impact): 

▲ Acquisitions in Fiscal 2017 of Classica and Bell’s Music Video

Channels.

▲ Organic growth for online and downloads music products.

$6.2

$6.8

Commercial Music 

The most significant contributors to the increase of 9.0% or 
$0.6  million  from  Q4 2016  in  Commercial  Music  revenues 
were as follows (arrows reflect the impact): 

▲ Organic growth for digital signage in Canada.

Music Broadcasting

Commercial Music

Q4 2016

Q4 2017

Note: 
(1)

In millions of Canadian dollars.

Trends by Revenues by Geographic Region: 

Revenue by geography(1)

$13.5

$14.0

$12.2

$12.5

Canada

International

Q4 2016

Q4 2017

Note: 
(1)

In millions of Canadian dollars.

Canada 

The most significant contributors to the increase of 3.7% or 
$0.5 million from Q4 2016 in revenues for Canada were as 
follows (arrows reflect the impact): 

▲ Organic growth  for digital signage  and  acquisitions of  Bell’s

Music Video Channels. 

International 

The most significant contributors to  the increase of 2.8% or 
$0.3 million from Q4 2016 in international revenues were as 
follows (arrows reflect the impact): 

▲ As described above in Music Broadcasting, acquisitions are
included in full for Q4 2017 and international organic growth.

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 39 

 
Operating Expenses 

(in thousands of Canadian 
dollars) 

Q4 2017  
% of 
revenues 

Q4 2016  
% of 
revenues 

Variance 

Significant contributions to 
variance : 

Music programming, cost 
of services and content 

$9,125 
34.4% 

$9,053 
35.3% 

$72 

0.8% 

▲ 

due 

Decreased  on  a  percentage  of 
to 
primarily 
revenues, 
synergies 
recent 
related 
acquisitions  partially  offset  by  an 
increase 
to 
installation  and  equipment  sales 
for digital signage. 

in  costs 

related 

to 

Selling and marketing 

$3,302 
12.5% 

$3,387 
13.2% 

$(85) 

(2.5)% 

▼ 

Primarily due to lower stock based 
compensation,  partially  offset  by 
an  increase  in  costs  to  support 
revenue  growth  in  international 
markets. 

Information Technology 
and Research and 
development 

$2,324 
8.8% 

$2,254 
8.8% 

$70 

3.1% 

▲ 

due 

to  additional 
related 
Increase 
hiring 
international 
to 
expansion,  partially  offset  by 
recent 
related 
synergies 
acquisitions.  

to 

General and 
administrative  

$6,385 
24.1% 

$3,957 
15.4% 

$2,428 

61.4%  ▲ 

Primarily  due  to  higher legal fees 
and acquisitions costs. 

Depreciation, 
amortization and write-off 

$4,619 
17,4% 

$3,218 
12.5% 

$1,401

43.5%  ▲ 

Primarily  due  to  the  addition  of 
to 
intangible  assets 
acquisitions. 

related 

Adjusted EBITDA(1)(2)

$8.2

$9.0

Q4 2016

Q4 2017

Adjusted  EBITDA  for  Q4  2017  increased  10.1%  to 
$9.0 million, from $8.2 million for Q4 2016. Adjusted EBITDA 
margin  was  34.1%  for  Q4  2017  compared  to  32.0%  for 
Q4 2016.  The  increase  in  Adjusted  EBITDA  was  primarily 
due  to  the  recent  acquisitions  of  Classica,  iConcerts  and 
DMD, from which synergies were realized.  

Acquisition,  restructuring  and  other  various  costs 
mainly included costs related to litigation (see page 43). 

Notes: 
(1) 
(2)  Refer to “Supplemental information on Non-IFRS measures” on 

In millions of Canadian dollars. 

page 24 and 29. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 40 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net Finance (Income) Expenses  

Finance expenses increased to $1.0 million from $0.8 million in Q4 2016. The increase was mainly related to the change in 
fair  value  of contingent  consideration  and  balances  payable  on  business  acquisitions  of  $0.9  million,  offset  by  the  foreign 
exchange net gain of $0.7 million recognised in Q4 2017. 

Change in fair value of investment 

In Q4 2017, a loss on fair value of $0.3 million was recorded compared to $1.1 million in Q4 2016. The loss is related to the 
translation of the investments denominated in U.S. dollars to Canadian dollars. 

Income Taxes 

Recovery of income taxes increased to $5.2 million for Q4 2017 from $1.4 million for Q4 2016. The increase in income tax 
recovery was mainly related to additional recognition of previously unrecognized tax losses of a foreign subsidiary. 

Net income and net income per share 

Net income increased 41.9% to $4.6 million ($0.09 per share 
diluted) for Q4 2017 compared to $3.2 million ($0.06 per share 
diluted) for Q4 2016. The increase was primarily due to higher 
operating  results,  higher  income  taxe  recovery  related  to  the 
recognition  of  previously  unrecognized  tax  losses,  lower  loss 
on fair value of investments, partially offset by higher legal fees 
and amortization of intangibles. 

Adjusted Net income and Adjusted Net income per share 

Adjusted  net  income  for  Q4  2017  increased  41.8%  to 
$10.5 million  ($0.20  per  share  diluted)  from  $7.1  million 
($0.14 per  share  diluted)  for  Q4 2016.  The  increase  was 
primarily due to higher income tax recovery and higher Adjusted 
EBITDA related to acquisitions combined with organic growth in 
Commercial Music. 

Net income and 
Adjusted Net Income(1)(2)

$10.5

$7.1

$4.6

$3.2

Net income

Adjusted Net income

Q4 2016

Q4 2017

Notes: 
(1) 
(2)  Refer to “Supplemental information on Non-IFRS 

In millions of Canadian dollars. 

measures” on page 24 and 29. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 41 

 
 
 
 
 
LIQUIDITY 
FOR THE QUARTER ENDED MARCH 31, 2017 

CF from operating activities and 
Adjusted free cash flow(1)(2)

$10.8

$7.7

$8.0

$6.4

CF from operating
activities

Adjusted free cash
flow

Q4 2016

Q4 2017

Cash flow from operating activities 

Cash  flow  generated  from  operating  activities  increased 
40.4% to $10.8 million for Q4 2017 from $7.7 million for Q4 
2016.  The  increase  was  mainly  due  to  higher  operating 
results,  and  lower net change in non-cash operating items 
mainly  related  to  timing  for  payment  of  accounts  payable, 
partially offset by higher interest paid. 

Adjusted free cash flow 

Adjusted  free  cash  flow  for  Q4  2017  increased  23.4%  to 
$8.0 million from $6.4 million for Q4 2016. The increase was 
primarily related to higher operating results, lower financing 
costs and lower capital expenditures. 

Decrease  in  capital  expenditures  of  $0.6 million  compared 
to  Q4 2016  was  mainly  due  to  the  upgrade  of  subscriber 
music boxes for commercial customers that occurred in Q4 
2016.  

Notes: 
(1) 
(2)  Refer to “Supplemental information on Non-IFRS 

In millions of Canadian dollars. 

measures” on page 24 and 29. 

Financing Activities 

Net cash flow used in financing activities amounted to $7.5 million for Q4 2017 compared to $4.6 million for Q4 2016. The 
increase of $2.9 million was mainly attributable to the repayment of the credit facility. 

Investing Activities 

Net cash flow used in investing activities amounted to $0.4 million for Q4 2017 compared to $2.4 million for Q4 2016. The 
decrease of $2.0 million was mainly related to lower outlays in Q4 2017 related to acquisitions and capital expenditures. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 42 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Music Choice Litigation 

Music Choice v. Stingray 

Music Choice filed its original Complaint against the Corporation on June 6, 2016, asserting infringement of four U.S. patents, 
namely, U.S. Patent Nos. 8,769,602, 9,357,245, 7,320,025 and 9,351,045. On August 12, 2016, Music Choice filed its First 
Amended Complaint, which added a fifth U.S. patent, namely, U.S. Patent No. 9,414,121. The Corporation filed its Answer to 
the  Original  Complaint  (including  counterclaims)  on  August  30,  2016,  asserting,  among  other  things,  defenses  and 
counterclaims of non-infringement and invalidity. On September 2, 2016, Music Choice filed its Second Amended complaint, 
adding Stingray Music USA, Inc. (SMU) as a defendant, and the Corporation and SMU filed their answers and counterclaims 
on September 23 and October 4, 2016, respectively.  Since the commencement of the case, the parties have jointly prepared 
and filed with the Court a docket control order, a protective order and an ESI order. Music Choice also served its infringement 
contentions on September 12, 2016, the parties exchanged Initial Disclosures, and Stingray served its invalidity contentions 
on November 28, 2016.  The parties exchanged amended infringement and invalidity contentions on April 28, 2017. In addition, 
on  November  14,  2016,  Stingray  filed  an  amended  answer  and  counterclaims  which  included  inequitable  conduct 
counterclaims based on David Del Beccaro’s (and the other inventors’) failure to disclose a product offered by Music Choice 
Europe in or about 2001 to the patent office and their misrepresentations to the patent office that they are the true inventors 
of  the  patents-in-suit.  Music  Choice  moved  to  dismiss  and  strike  Stingray’s  inequitable  conduct  counterclaims,  which  the 
Corporation  opposed  on  January  4,  2017.  On  May  3,  2017,  the  magistrate  judge  handling  the  case  issued  a  Report  and 
Recommendation  that  the  motion  be  dismissed.  Fact  discovery  has  commenced,  and  the  parties  have  exchanged  written 
discovery  requests  and  produced  documents.  Stingray  has  deposed  many  of  the  patent  inventors,  and  will  be  taking  the 
deposition of Music Choice over the next few months. Music Choice has noticed Stingray’s deposition, which will likely take 
place in July 2017. The hearing is scheduled for June 12, 2017, and trial is scheduled for February 5, 2018. 

Stingray v. Music Choice 

SMU filed its Complaint on August 30, 2016, asserting claims of unfair competition under the Federal Lanham Act, defamation, 
trade libel, tortious interference, and common law unfair competition, stemming from misrepresentations of fact made by Music 
Choice regarding the nature, characteristics and qualities of Stingray Music and its products and services, to SMU’s existing 
and potential customers, with the goal of damaging SMU’s relationships with those customers and its business generally. On 
October 17, 2016, Music Choice filed a Motion to Dismiss on the grounds that all of SMU’s claims are time-barred. In response, 
on November 3, 2016, SMU filed an Amended Complaint, after which (on December 7, 2016), Music Choice moved to dismiss 
only the state law claims. Music Choice also filed a motion to transfer the case to the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. On 
January 4, 2017, SMU opposed both motions. In addition, SMU filed a motion to consolidate the action with the Music Choice 
patent infringement action. 

On March 16, 2017, the Court denied Music Choice’s motion to change venue, and granted SMU’s motion to consolidate, 
ordering that this action be consolidated for all pretrial issues with the Music Choice v. Stingray action. Music Choice’s motion 
to dismiss the state law claims remains pending. On March 30, 2017, Music Choice answered SMU’s complaint (except for 
the state law claims that remain subject to its pending motion to dismiss) and asserted a counterclaim against SMU and the 
Corporation. Music Choice’s counterclaim alleges that the Stingray entities misused Music Choice confidential data in violation 
of various non-disclosure agreements (the “NDAs”). These non-disclosure agreements arose from discussions between the 
parties  concerning  a  possible  acquisition  of  Music  Choice  by  the  Corporation.  The  Corporation’s  entities  answered  the 
counterclaim on April 28, 2017, denying the allegations and asserting various affirmative defenses, including that Music Choice 
acted fraudulently and in bad faith with regard to the NDAs. Fact discovery has commenced and the parties have exchanged 
written disclosures and made initial document productions. Trial is currently set for February 5, 2018. 

SOCAN and Re:Sound legal proceedings 

From  May 2, 2017  until May  10, 2017,  Stingray, together with  its  Canadian  Broadcast Distribution  Undertaking customers 
(collectively, the “Objectors”), presented an affirmative case before the Copyright Board of Canada to seek a reduction in the 
prescribed rates and terms for the Pay Audio Services Tariff for the 2007-2016 period. SOCAN and Re:Sound (collectively, 
the “Collectives”) opposed that case, but in the opinion of the Objectors failed to offer compelling alternatives other than a 
request to maintain the status quo. The Copyright Board of Canada will now begin its deliberations, and Stingray expects a 
decision in about 18-36 months, based on past experience and the complexity of this proceeding.   

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 43 

 
 
 
Transactions Between Related Parties 

The key management personnel of the Corporation are the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and certain other 
key employees of the Corporation. 

Key management personnel compensation and directors fees include the following: 

(in thousands of Canadian dollars) 
Short-term employee benefits 
Share-based compensation 
Restricted and performance share unit 
Deferred share unit 

Disclosure of Outstanding Share Data 

Issued and outstanding shares and outstanding stock options consisted of: 

Issued and outstanding shares: 
Subordinate voting shares 
Variable Subordinate voting shares 
Multiple voting shares 

Outstanding stock options: 
Stock options 

2017 

2016 

$ 

$ 

3,361 
810 
407 
896 
5,474 

$ 

$ 

2,927 
976 
178 
371 
4,452 

June 7, 2017 

March 31, 2017 

34,747,472 
284,609 
16,294,285 
51,326,366 

34,693,678 
338,403 
16,294,285 
51,326,366 

1,397,185 

1,397,185 

On June 3, 2015, the Corporation established a new stock option plan to attract and retain employees, directors, officers and 
consultants. The plan provides for the granting of options to purchase subordinate voting shares. Under this plan, 2,500,000 
subordinate  voting  shares  have  been  reserved  for  issuance.  In  the  year  ended  March  31,  2017,  218,391 options  were 
exercised, 42,368 were forfeited and 369,187 options were granted to eligible employee, subject to service vesting periods of 
4 years. 

Financial risks 

Currency risk: 

The  Corporation  is  exposed  to  currency  risk  on  sales  and  expenses  that  are  denominated  in  currencies  other  than  the 
functional currency of the Corporation’s subsidiaries, primarily the US dollar, the Australian dollar and the euro. Also, additional 
earnings  variability  arises  from  the  translation  of  monetary  assets  and  liabilities  denominated  in  currencies  other  than  the 
functional currency of the Corporation’s subsidiaries at the rate of exchange at each balance sheet date, the impact of which 
is reported as a foreign exchange gain or loss in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. 

The Corporation's objective in managing its foreign currency risk is to minimize its net exposure to foreign currency cash flows, 
by transacting with third parties in the above currencies to the maximum extent possible and practical, given that this will act 
as natural economic hedges for each of these currencies. 

Liquidity risk: 

Liquidity  risk  is  the  risk  that  the  Corporation  will  not  be  able  to  meet  its  financial  obligations  as  they  become  due.  The 
Corporation also manages liquidity risk by continuously monitoring actual and budgeted cash flows under both normal and 
stressed conditions.  Also, the Board of Directors reviews and approves the Corporation’s operating and capital budgets, as 
well as any material transactions out of the ordinary course of business, including proposals on mergers, acquisitions or other 
major investments or divestitures. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 44 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate risk: 

Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate due to changes in 
market interest rates. The Corporation's interest rate risk is primarily related to the Corporation's operating revolving facility 
bearing interest at variable rate.  

Credit risk: 

Credit risk is the risk of an unexpected financial loss to the Corporation if a customer or counterparty to a financial instrument 
fails  to  meet  contractual  obligations,  and  it  arises  primarily  from  the  Corporation's  trade  and  other  receivables.  The 
Corporation’s  credit  risk  is  principally  attributable  to  its  trade  receivables.  The  amounts  presented  in  the  consolidated 
statements of financial position are net of an allowance for doubtful accounts, estimated by the Corporation’s management 
and  based,  in  part,  on  the  age  of  the  specific  receivable  balance  and  the  current  and  expected  collection  trends.  The 
Corporation's exposure to credit risk is mainly influenced by the characteristics of each customer. The demographics of the 
Corporation's customer base, including the default risk of the industry and country in which the customer operates, have less 
of an influence on the credit risk. Generally, the Corporation does not require collateral or other security from customers for 
trade accounts receivable; however, credit is extended following an evaluation of creditworthiness. In addition, the Corporation 
performs ongoing credit reviews of its customers and establishes an allowance for doubtful accounts when the likelihood of 
collecting the account has significantly diminished. The Corporation believes that the credit risk of trade accounts receivable 
is limited.  

Critical accounting estimates 

The preparation of the Corporation’s consolidated financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires management to make 
judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets, 
liabilities, income and expenses. Actual results may differ from these estimates. 

Below an overview of the areas that involved a higher degree of judgement or complexity, and of items which are more likely 
to be materially adjusted due to estimates and assumptions turning out to be wrong. Estimates are based on management’s 
best knowledge of current  events  and  actions that  the Corporation  may undertake  in  the future. Estimates  and  underlying 
assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Any revision to accounting estimates are recognized in the period in which 
the estimates are revised and in any future periods affected by these revisions. 

The areas involving significant estimates or judgments are: 

Estimation of current tax payable and current tax expense 

In the calculation of current tax, the Company is required to make significant estimates due to the fact that it is subject to tax 
laws of the many jurisdictions in which it operates. Recorded income taxes and tax credits are subject to review and approval 
by tax authorities and therefore, could be different from the amounts recorded. 

Recognition of deferred tax asset for carried forward tax losses  

In the calculation of deferred tax, estimates must be used to determine the appropriate rates and amounts and to take into 
account the probability of their occurrence. Deferred income tax assets also reflect the benefit of unutilized tax losses that can 
be carried forward to reduce income taxes in future years. The deferred tax assets include an amount which relates to carried 
forward tax  losses of some European  and  Australian subsidiaries.  The  subsidiaries  have  incurred  the  losses  over  the last 
financial years before the acquisition by the Corporation. The subsidiaries now generate taxable income. The Corporation has 
concluded  that  the  deferred  assets  will  be  recoverable  using  the  estimated  future  taxable  income  based  on  the  approved 
business plans and budgets for the subsidiaries. 

Estimated fair value of certain financial assets (investments)  

The fair value of investments that are not traded in an active market is determined using valuation techniques. The Corporation 
uses judgement to select a valuation method and make assumptions that are mainly based on market conditions existing at 
the end of each reporting period. 

Estimation of fair values of contingent consideration and balance payable on business acquisitions in business combinations  

The contingent consideration and balance payable on business acquisitions related to business combinations is payable based 
on the achievement of targets for growth in revenues for a period from the date of the acquisition and upon renewal of client 
contracts. The fair value of the contingent consideration and balance payable on business acquisitions of was estimated by 
calculating the present value of the future expected cash flows. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 45 

 
 
 
Business Combinations 

Under the acquisition method, on the date that control is obtained, the identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities of 
the acquired business are measured at their fair values. Depending on the complexity of determining the valuation for certain 
assets, the Company uses appropriate valuation techniques in arriving at the estimated fair value at the acquisition date for 
these assets. These valuations are generally based on a forecast of the total expected future net discounted cash flows and 
relate  closely  to  the  assumptions  made  by  management  regarding  the  future  performance  of  the  related  assets  and  the 
discount rate applied as it would be assumed by a market participant. 

Future Accounting Changes 

IFRS 9 - Financial instruments 

In July 2014, the IASB released the final version of IFRS 9 - Financial Instruments (IFRS 2014). (“IFRS 9 (2014)”) presents a 
few differences with IFRS 9 (2009) and IFRS 9 (2010), early adopted by the Corporation on April 1, 2012, with respect to the 
classification and measurement of financial assets and accounting of financial liabilities. IFRS 9 (2014) also includes a new 
expected credit loss model for calculating impairment on financial assets and new general hedge accounting requirements. 
The  standard  is  effective  for annual  periods  beginning  on or  after January  1, 2018,  with  earlier application  permitted. The 
Corporation does not intend to early adopt IFRS 9 (2014). The Corporation is currently evaluating the impact of the standard 
on its consolidated financial statements. 

IFRS 15 - Revenue recognition 

In May 2014, the IASB issued IFRS 15 - Revenue from Contracts with Customers. IFRS 15 replaces all previous revenue 
recognition standards, including IAS 18 - Revenue, and related interpretations such as IFRIC 13 - Customer Loyalty Programs. 
The standard sets out the requirements for recognizing revenue. Specifically, the new standard introduces a comprehensive 
framework with the general principle being that an entity recognizes revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods and 
services in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or 
services.  The  standard  introduces  more  prescriptive  guidance  than  was  included  in  previous  standards  and  may  result  in 
changes in classification and disclosure in addition to changes in the timing of recognition for certain types of revenues. The 
new  standard  is  effective  for  annual  periods  beginning  on  or  after  January  1,  2018  with  early  adoption  permitted.  The 
Corporation  is  currently  evaluating  the  impact  that  this  standard  will  have  on  its  consolidated  financial  statements.  The 
Corporation does not intend to early adopt the standard.  

IAS 16 – Property, Plant and Equipment 

On May 12, 2014, the IASB issued amendments to IAS 16 - Property, Plant and Equipment and IAS 38 - Intangible Assets. 
The amendments made to IAS 16 explicitly state that revenue-based methods of depreciation cannot be used for property, 
plant and equipment. This is because such methods reflect factors other than the consumption of economic benefits embodied 
in  the  asset.  The  amendments  in  IAS  38  introduce  a  rebuttable  presumption  that  the  use  of  revenue-based  amortization 
methods for intangible assets is inappropriate. This presumption could be overcome only when revenue and consumption of 
the economic benefits of the intangible asset are highly correlated or when the intangible asset is expressed as a measure of 
revenue. The amendments apply prospectively for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2016 with early adoption 
permitted. The Corporation intends to adopt the amendments to IAS 16 and IAS 38 in its consolidated financial statements for 
the annual period beginning on April 1, 2016. The Corporation does not expect the amendments to have a material impact on 
the consolidated financial statements. 

IAS 7 – Disclosure Initiative 

On January 7, 2016, the IASB issued amendments to IAS 7– Disclosure Initiative. The amendments require disclosures that 
enable users of financial statements to evaluate changes in liabilities arising from financing activities, including both changes 
arising from cash flows and non-cash changes. One way to meet this new disclosure requirement is to provide a reconciliation 
between  the  opening  and  closing  balances  for  liabilities  from  financing  activities.  The  Corporation  intends  to  adopt  the 
amendments to IAS 7 in its consolidated financial statements for the annual period beginning on April 1, 2017. The extent of 
the impact of adoption of the amendments has not yet been determined. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 46 

 
 
IFRS 16 – Leases 

On January 13, 2016, the IASB issued IFRS 16 - Leases. This new standard is effective for annual periods beginning on or 
after January 1, 2019. Earlier application is permitted for entities that apply IFRS 15 - Revenue from Contracts with Customers 
at or before the date of initial adoption of IFRS 16. IFRS 16 will replace IAS 17 - Leases. This standard introduces a single 
lessee accounting model and requires a lessee to recognize assets and liabilities for all leases with a term of more than 12 
months, unless the underlying asset is of low value. A lessee is required to recognize a right-of-use asset representing its right 
to use the underlying asset and a lease liability representing its obligation to make lease payments. This standard substantially 
carries forward the lessor accounting requirements of IAS 17, while requiring enhanced disclosures to be provided by lessors. 
Other areas of the lease accounting model have been impacted, including the definition of a lease. Transitional provisions 
have been provided. The Corporation intends to adopt IFRS 16 in its consolidated financial statements for the annual period 
beginning on April 1, 2019. The extent of the impact of adoption of the standard has not yet been determined. 

IFRS 2 – Share-based Payment 

On June 20, 2016, the IASB issued amendments to IFRS 2 Share-based Payment, clarifying how to account for certain types 
of share-based payment transactions. The amendments apply for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018. As a 
practical  simplification,  the  amendments  can  be  applied  prospectively.  Retrospective,  or  early,  application  is  permitted  if 
information is available without the use of hindsight. The Company intends to adopt the amendments to IFRS 2 in its financial 
statements for the annual period beginning on January 1, 2018. The extent of the impact of adoption of the amendments has 
not yet been determined. 

IFRIC 22 – Foreign Currency Transactions 

On December 8, 2016, the IASB issued IFRIC Interpretation 22 Foreign Currency Transactions and Advance Consideration. 
The Interpretation clarifies which date should be used for translation when a foreign currency transaction involves an advance 
payment or receipt. The Interpretation is applicable for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018. Earlier application 
is permitted. The Company intends to adopt the Interpretation in its financial statements for the annual period beginning on 
January 1, 2018. The extent of the impact of adoption of the Interpretation has not yet been determined. 

Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures, and internal control over financial reporting 

Internal control  over financial reporting ("ICFR") is  a process  designed to provide reasonable,  but not absolute,  assurance 
regarding the reliability of financial reporting and of the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance 
with  IFRS.  The  President  and  Chief  Executive  Officer  (“CEO”)  and  the  Chief  Financial  Officer  (“CFO”),  together  with 
Management, are responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate disclosure controls and procedures ("DC&P") and 
ICFR, as defined in National Instrument 52-109. The Corporation’s internal control framework is based on the criteria published 
in the updated version released in May 2013 of the report Internal Control Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of 
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“2013 COSO Framework”). 

At March 31, 2017, it is the first reporting year ending after the completion of the IPO resulting in the Corporation’s Subordinate 
Voting  Shares  and  Variable  Subordinate  Voting  Shares  being  listed  on  the  Toronto  Stock  Exchange.  Consequently,  the 
Corporation’s management,  under the supervision of  the  CEO and  CFO, designed ICFR to provide  reasonable assurance 
regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance 
with  IFRS  and  based  on  2013  COSO  Framework.  The  DC&P  have  been  designed  to  provide  reasonable  assurance  that 
material information relating to the Corporation is made known to the CEO and CFO by others, and that information required 
to be disclosed by the Corporation in its annual filings, interim filings or other reports filed or submitted by the Corporation 
under securities legislation is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in securities 
legislation.  

As  at  March  31,  2017,  an  evaluation  was  carried  out,  under  the  supervision  of  the  CEO  and  the  CFO,  of  the  design  and 
operating  effectiveness  of  the  Company’s  DC&P.  Based  on  this  evaluation,  the  CEO  and  the  CFO  concluded  that  the 
Company’s DC&P were appropriately designed and were operating effectively as at March 31, 2017. 

As at March 31, 2017, an evaluation was carried out, under the supervision of the CEO and the CFO, of the effectiveness of 
the ICFR based on the 2013 COSO Framework. Based on this evaluation, they have concluded that the Corporation’s ICFR 
were effective as at March 31, 2017. 

There have been no changes in the Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period that 
have materially affected, or are likely to materially affect, the Corporation’s ICFR. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 47 

 
 
 
 
Management’s  assessment  of  and  conclusion  on  the  design  and  the  effectiveness  of  the  Corporation’s  ICFR  as  at 
June 8, 2017, did not include the controls or procedures of the operations of Nature Vision, Classica GmbH and Festival 4K 
B.V. which were acquired in Fiscal 2017. The Corporation has accordingly availed itself of provision 3.3(1)(b) of Regulation 
52-109 which permits exclusion of these acquisitions in the design and operating effectiveness assessment of its ICFR for a 
maximum period of 365 days from the date of acquisition. 

The following table summarizes the financial information for Nature Vision, Classica GmbH and Festival 4K B.V.: 

(in thousand of Canadian dollars) 

Results of operations 

Revenues 
Net income 

Financial Position 
Current assets 
Non-current assets 
Currents liabilities 
Non-currents liabilities 

Subsequent events 

Acquisition 

 Nature 
Vision  

Classica 
GmbH 

Festival 
4K B.V. 

  $ 

  $ 

  $ 
  $ 

–  $ 
– 

785  $ 

32 

170  $ 

1,213 
3 
55 

$ 

2,081 
12,029 
1,818 
1,053 

600 
20 

612 
2,425 
128 
130 

On  May  26,  2017,  the  Corporation  acquire  a  classical  and  cinematic  music  video  television  channel  called  C  Music 
Entertainment Ltd., for a total consideration of GBP3.6 million (CA$6.2 million). 

On May 8, 2017, the Corporation signed an agreement to acquire Yokee Music LTD., an Israel-based provider of three social 
music apps: Yokee Karaoke, Yokee Guitar, and Yokee Piano, for a total consideration of US$12.5 million (CA$16.8 million). 

Dividend 

On April 28, 2017, the Corporation declared a dividend of $0.045 per subordinate voting share, variable subordinate voting 
share and multiple voting share, totaling CA$2.3 million that will be payable on or about June 15, 2017 to holders of subordinate 
voting shares, variable subordinate voting shares and multiple voting shares on record as of May 31, 2017. 

Additional information 

Additional information about the Corporation is available on our website at www.stingray.com and on the SEDAR website at 
www.sedar.com. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 48 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
KPMG LLP 
600 de Maisonneuve Blvd. West 
Suite 1500, Tour KPMG 
Montréal (Québec)  H3A 0A3 
Canada 

Telephone  
Fax 
Internet 

(514) 840-2100 
(514) 840-2187 
www.kpmg.ca 

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT

To the Shareholders of Stingray Digital Group Inc.

We  have  audited  the  accompanying  consolidated  financial  statements  of  Stingray  Digital  Group  Inc.,  which 
comprise  the  consolidated  statements  of  financial  position  as  at  March 31,  2017 and  March  31,  2016,  the 
consolidated statements of comprehensive income, changes in equity and cash flows for the years then ended, 
and notes, comprising a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory information.

Management’s Responsibility for the Consolidated Financial Statements

Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these consolidated financial statements in 
accordance  with  International  Financial  Reporting  Standards,  and  for  such  internal control  as  management 
determines  is  necessary  to  enable  the  preparation  of  consolidated  financial  statements  that  are  free  from 
material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

Auditors’ Responsibility

Our  responsibility  is  to  express  an  opinion  on  these consolidated  financial statements  based  on  our  audit. We 
conducted  our  audit  in  accordance  with  Canadian  generally  accepted  auditing  standards.  Those  standards 
require that we comply with ethical requirements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance 
about whether the consolidated financial statements are free from material misstatement.

An  audit  involves  performing  procedures  to  obtain  audit  evidence  about  the  amounts  and  disclosures  in  the 
consolidated financial statements. The procedures selected depend on our judgment, including the assessment 
of the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In 
making  those  risk  assessments,  we  consider  internal  control  relevant  to  the entity’s  preparation  and  fair 
presentation of the consolidated financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in 
the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal 
control. An  audit  also  includes  evaluating  the  appropriateness  of  accounting  policies  used  and  the 
reasonableness of accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of 
the consolidated financial statements.

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

Opinion

In  our  opinion,  the  consolidated  financial  statements  present  fairly,  in  all  material  respects,  the  consolidated 
financial position of Stingray Digital Group Inc. as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2016, and its consolidated 
financial performance and its consolidated cash flows for the years then ended in accordance with International 
Financial Reporting Standards.

June 7, 2017

Montréal, Canada

*CPA auditor, CA, public accountancy permit No. A115894 

KPMG LLP is a Canadian limited liability partnership and a member firm of the KPMG  
network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative 
("KPMG International"), a Swiss entity. 
KPMG Canada provides services to KPMG LLP. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 49 

 
 
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars) 

Note 

2017 

2016 

Revenues 

$ 

101,501 

$ 

89,944 

Music programming, cost of services and content  
Selling and marketing 
Research and development, support and information technology,  

net of tax credit of $887 (2016 - $850) 

General and administrative 
Initial public offering expenses and CRTC tangible benefits  
Depreciation, amortization and write-off 
Net finance (income) expense  
Change in fair value of investments  

Income before income taxes 

Income taxes (recovery) 

Net income 

Net income per share – Basic 
Net income per share – Diluted  

Weighted average number of shares – Basic 
Weighted average number of shares – Diluted 

Comprehensive income 

Net income 

Other comprehensive income, net of tax 

Items that may be reclassified to profit and loss 
Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations 

Items that will not be reclassified to profit and loss 
Remeasurements of post-employment benefit obligations, net of tax  
Total other comprehensive income (loss) 

5, 18, 19 
5 
6 
15 

7 

8 
8 

8 
8 

35,270 
12,338 

8,960 
19,016 
– 
17,168 
2,036 
(408) 

7,121 

(3,596) 

31,407 
10,435 

7,613 
13,247 
5,821 
15,028 
(418) 
(7,345) 

14,156 

275 

$ 

10,717 

$ 

13,881 

0.21 
0.21 

0.29 
0.29 

51,242,611 
51,497,510 

47,822,515 
48,380,253 

$ 

10,717 

$ 

13,881 

(1,129) 

44 
(1,085) 

804 

(67) 
737 

Total comprehensive income  

$ 

9,632 

$ 

14,618 

Net income is entirely attributable to Shareholders. 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 50 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Statements of Financial Position 
March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars) 

Note 

Assets 
Current assets 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Trade and other receivables  
Research and development tax credits  
Inventories  
Other current assets 

Non-current assets 
Property and equipment  
Intangible assets  
Goodwill  
Investments 
Investment in joint venture 
Other non-current assets 
Deferred tax assets  

Total assets 

Liabilities and Equity 
Current liabilities 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities  
Dividends payable 
Deferred revenues 
Current portion of other payables  
Income taxes payable 

Non-current liabilities 
Revolving facility  
Other payables  
Deferred tax liabilities  

Total liabilities 

Shareholders’ equity  
Share capital  
Contributed surplus 
Deficit 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 

Total equity 

Commitments (note 22) 
Subsequent events (note 2) 

Total liabilities and equity 

9 
10 
11 

12 
13 
14 
15 

7 

16 
19 

18 

17 
18 
7 

19 

$ 

March 31,  
2017 

March 31, 
2016 
(recasted, see note 3)

$ 

5,862 
27,020 
486 
1,233 
4,780 

39,381 

5,336 
49,519 
68,788 
17,351 
738 
954 
12,225 

3,201 
28,597 
236 
910 
3,466 

36,410 

4,628 
47,901 
61,805 
16,943 
815 
1,088 
7,485 

$ 

194,292 

$ 

177,075 

$ 

$ 

29,783 
– 
1,094 
9,498 
184 

40,559 

41,040 
13,040 
4,705 

99,344 

102,700 
2,872 
(10,299) 
(325) 

94,948 

26,636 
1,789 
915 
8,006 
1,711 

39,057 

35,035 
8,844 
3,745 

86,681 

102,040 
2,196 
(14,646) 
804 

90,394 

$ 

194,292 

$ 

177,075 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

Approved by the Board of Directors, 

(Signed) Eric Boyko, Director 

(Signed) L. Jacques Ménard, Director 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 51 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity 

Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars,  
except number of share capital) 

Share Capital 

Number 

Amount   

Contributed 
surplus

Deficit 

Accumulated 
other 
comprehensive 
income (loss)

Total 
shareholders’ 
equity 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

$  (17,842) 

384 

(6,619) 

104,044 

(5,542) 

1,351 

13,881 

– 

– 

– 

– 

262 

(6,414) 

1,074 

10,717 

Balance at March 31, 2015 

33,981,088 

$ 

2,240 

$ 

1,759  $ 

(21,841) 

$ 

Insurance of shares upon  

exercise of options (note 19) 

479,787 

1,298 

(914) 

– 

Dividends (note 19) 

– 

– 

Issuance of subordinate voting shares 

and variable subordinate voting 
shares (note 19) 

Share issuance costs – net of income 

taxes of $1,993 (note 19) 

Share-based compensation (note 21) 

Net income 

Other comprehensive income, net of 

tax 

16,647,100 

104,044 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(5,542) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

1,351 

– 

– 

(6,619) 

– 

– 

– 

13,881 

(67) 

804 

737 

Balance at March 31, 2016 

51,107,975  $  102,040 

$ 

2,196  $ 

(14,646)  $ 

804 

$  90,394 

Issuance of shares upon  

exercise of options (note 19) 

Dividends (note 19) 

Share-based compensation (note 21) 

Net income 

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax 

218,391 

660 

(398) 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(6,414) 

1,074 

– 

10,717 

– 

– 

44 

(1,129) 

(1,085) 

Balance at March 31, 2017 

51,326,366  $  102,700 

$ 

2,872  $ 

(10,299)  $ 

(325) 

$  94,948 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 52 

 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars) 

Note 

2017 

2016 

Operating activities: 
Net income 
Adjustments for: 

Share-based compensation  
Restricted and performance share unit expense 
Deferred share unit expense 
Depreciation and write-off of property and equipment 
Amortization of intangible assets 
Amortization and write-off of financing fees 
Other interest expense  
Change in fair value of derivative 
Change in fair value of investments 
Change in fair value of contingent consideration 
Accretion expense of CRTC tangible benefits 
Share of results of joint venture 
Income taxes expense (recovery) 
Interest paid 
Income taxes paid 

Net change in non-cash operating items  

Financing activities: 
Increase in the revolving facility 
Repayment of term loan and bridge loan 
Payment of dividend and stated capital of common shares 
Proceeds from the exercise of stock options 
Issuance of shares 
Share capital issuance costs 
Deferred financing costs 
Repayment of other payables 
Other 

Investing activities: 
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired 
Intangible assets acquired through asset acquisitions 
Acquisition of investments  
Acquisition of property and equipment 
Acquisition of intangible assets 

Increase in cash and cash equivalents 

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year 

21 
21 
21 
12 
13 

6 

15 

20 

17 
17 
19 
19 
19 
19 

3 
1 
15 

$ 

10,717 

$ 

1,332 
1,112 
896 
2,418 
14,750 
213 
1,170 
– 
(408) 
822 
287 
(77) 
(3,596) 
(1,107) 
(3,392) 
25,137 

(2,371) 
22,766 

6,005 
– 
(8,203) 
262 
– 
– 
– 
(2,349) 
(58) 
(4,343) 

(7,010) 
(5,519) 
– 
(2,635) 
(598) 
(15,762) 

2,661 

3,201 

Cash and cash equivalents, end of year 

$ 

5,862 

$ 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

13,881 

1,351 
592 
371 
2,146 
12,882 
263 
1,627 
(110) 
(7,345) 
(2,064) 
248 
43 
275 
(1,426) 
(2,190) 
20,544 

(1,576) 
18,968 

26,948 
(100,960) 
(4,830) 
384 
104,044 
(7,535) 
(431) 
(4,851) 
(91) 
12,678 

(24,665) 
– 
(1,665) 
(2,300) 
(1,129) 
(29,759) 

1,887 

1,314 

3,201 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 53 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

1.  Significant changes and highlights: 

The consolidated financial position and performance of the Stingray Digital Group Inc. (the "Corporation") was 

particularly affected by the following events and transactions during the year ended March 31, 2017: 

-  On January 5, 2017, the Corporation signed an agreement with Think Inside the Box LLC, to acquire and operate the 

HD slow-television specialty channel knows as Nature Vision TV for a total consideration of US$997 (CA$1,345). It 

resulted in  the  recognition  of goodwill (notes 3 and 7), intangibles assets  (notes 3 and 7), contingent consideration 

(notes 3 and 12).  

-  On January 3, 2017, the Corporation signed an agreement with UNITEL GmbH & Co. KG, a leading producer and 

distributor of classical music for audio-visual media, to acquire, operate, and distribute its international, premium pay 

TV channel, Classica, for a total consideration of EUR 7,701 (CA$10,839). It resulted in the recognition of goodwill 

(notes 3 and 7),  intangibles  assets  (notes 3 and 7),  contingent  consideration  (notes 3  and 12)  and  additional 

operating profit related to the acquisition (note 3). 

-  On  October  14,  2016,  the  Corporation  announced  the  acquisition  of  hundreds  of  exclusive  concerts  and 

documentaries  from  Berlin-based  EuroArts  Music  International  GmbH  (EuroArts),  a  producer  and  distributor  of 

classical music film productions, for a total consideration of EUR 1,316 (CA$1,904), of which EUR 1,050 (CA$1,519) 

was paid on October 14, 2016. The music catalog is presented in intangible assets in note 13. 

-  On June 21, 2016, the Corporation announced the acquisition of four of Bell Media’s popular music video channels: 

MuchLoud, MuchRetro, MuchVibes and Juicebox for a total consideration of $4,000 fully paid during the year. This 

acquisition will enable the Corporation to consolidate its portfolio of television music channels and to provide the most 

comprehensive music products and services offering worldwide. The client lists related to the music video channels 

are presented in intangible assets in note 13. 

-  On June 15, 2016, the Corporation purchased all of the outstanding shares of Festival 4K B.V. for a total consideration 

of EUR1,838 (CA$2,644). It resulted in the recognition of goodwill (notes 3 and 7), intangibles assets (notes 3 and 7), 
contingent consideration (notes 3 and 12) and additional operating profit related to the acquisition (note 3). 

2.  Subsequent events: 

Acquisition 

On May 26, 2017, the Corporation signed an agreement to acquire and operate a classical and cinematic music video 

television channel called C Music TV, for a total consideration of GBP3,600 (CA$6,196).   

On May 8, 2017, the Corporation signed an agreement to acquire Yokee Music LTD., an Israel-based provider of three 

social music apps regularly: Yokee, Yokee Guitar, and Yokee Piano for a total consideration of US$12,500 (CA$16,816).   

Dividend 

On April 28, 2017, the Corporation declared a dividend of $0.045 per subordinate voting share, variable subordinate voting 

share  and  multiple  voting  share,  totaling  CA$2,310  that  will  be  payable  on  or  around  June  15,  2017  to  holders  of 

subordinate voting share, variable subordinate voting share and multiple voting share on record as of May 31, 2017. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 54 

 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

3.  Business acquisitions: 

Year ended March 31, 2017 

Nature Vision 

On January 5, 2017, the Corporation purchased all of the outstanding units of Think Inside the Box LLC (“Nature Vision”) 

for a total consideration of US$997 (CA$1,345). This acquisition will enable the Corporation to extend its specialty channels 

portfolio. As a result of the acquisition, goodwill of $853 has been recognized and is related to the operating synergies 

expected to be achieved from integrating the acquired business into the Corporation’s existing assets. The goodwill will 

not be deductible for tax purposes.  

The contingent consideration arrangement requires the Corporation to pay, in cash, to the former owners, a certain multiple 

of  the  revenues  for  12  months  and  other  conditions,  and  would  be  payable  on  March  30,  2020.  The  fair  value  of  the 

contingent consideration has been determined using an income approach based on the estimated amount and timing of 

projected cash flows. 

Assets acquired : 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Intangible assets 
Goodwill 

Liabilities assumed : 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 
Deferred tax liabilities 

Net assets acquired at fair value 

Consideration given : 
Cash 
Working capital adjustment 
Contingent consideration 

Preliminary 

$ 

172 
380 
853 
1,405 

3 
57 
60 

$ 

1,345 

587 
183 
575 

$ 

1,345 

As of the reporting date, the Corporation has not completed the purchase price allocation over the identifiable net assets 

and goodwill as information to confirm the fair value of certain assets and liabilities is still to be obtained. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 55 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

Classica GMBH 

On January 3, 2017, the Corporation purchased all of the outstanding shares of Classica GMBH (“Classica”) for a total 

consideration  of  EUR7,701  (CA$10,839).  This  acquisition  will  enable  the  Corporation  to  become  a  leading  provider  of 

classical  music programming worldwide. As a  result of the acquisition,  goodwill of $4,106 has  been recognized and  is 

related to the operating synergies expected to be achieved from integrating the acquired business into the Corporation 

existing assets. The goodwill will not be deductible for tax purposes.  

The fair value of acquired trade receivables was $1,080 which represented the gross contractual amount. The contingent 

consideration arrangement requires the Corporation to pay, in cash, to the former owners, a percentage of the revenues 

for 12 months. Also, there is a balance of acquisition payments, for the next 11 years ending in July 2027. The fair value 

of  the  contingent  consideration  has  been  determined  using  an  income  approach  based  on  the  estimated  amount  and 
timing of projected cash flows. The fair value of the balance of acquisition payments has been determined using discounted 
projected payments over the term of the agreement. 

The results of the business acquisition of Classica for the year ended March 31, 2017 have been included in results since 

the date of the acquisition. Revenues recorded from the acquisition date to March 31, 2017 were $785 and net income 

was $32. Had the acquisition occurred at the beginning of the fiscal year, revenues related to this acquired business would 

have been approximately $3,142 and net income would have been $129. 

Assets acquired : 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Trade and other receivables 
Other current assets 
Property and equipment 
Intangible assets 
Goodwill 

Liabilities assumed : 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 
Deferred tax liabilities 

Net assets acquired at fair value 

Consideration given : 
Cash 
Working capital adjustment 
Balance payable on business acquisition 
Contingent consideration 

$ 

Preliminary 

368 
1,080 
63 
11 
7,911 
4,106 
13,539 

1,608 
1,092 
2,700 

$ 

10,839 

5,541 
(189) 
5,395 
92 

$ 

10,839 

As of the reporting date, the Corporation has not completed the purchase price allocation over the identifiable net assets 

and goodwill as information to confirm fair value of certain assets and liabilities is still to be obtained. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 56 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

Festival 4K B.V. 

On June 15, 2016, the Corporation purchased all of the outstanding shares of Festival 4K B.V. for a total consideration of 

EUR1,838 (CA$2,644). Festival 4K B.V. one of the first channels in the world to broadcast nonstop 4K UHD, programs a 

range of live performances including festivals, concerts and theatre productions. As a result of the acquisition, a goodwill 

of  $1,777  has been  recognized and  is related  to the  operating synergies  expected  to be achieved from  integrating the 

acquired business into the Corporation’s existing worldwide assets. The goodwill will not be deductible for tax purposes.  

The fair value of acquired  trade  receivables  was $61  which  represented the  gross contractual amount.  The  contingent 

consideration  arrangement  requires  the  Corporation  to  pay,  in  cash,  to  the  former  owners,  a  certain  multiple  of  the 

revenues for 12 months and other conditions, of up to EUR1,000 (CA$1,425) and would be payable in January 2018. The 

fair value of the contingent consideration has been determined using an income approach based on the estimated amount 

and timing of projected cash flows. 

The results of the business acquisition of Festival 4K B.V. for the period ended March 31, 2017 have been included in 

results since the date of the acquisition. Revenues recorded from the acquisition date to March 31, 2017 were $600 and 

net income was $20. Had the acquisitions occurred at the beginning of the fiscal year, revenues related to this acquired 

business would have been approximately $758 and net income would have been $26.  

Assets acquired : 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Trade and other receivables 
Other non-current assets 
Inventories 
Property and equipment 
Intangible assets 
Goodwill 

Liabilities assumed : 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 
Deferred tax liabilities 

Net assets acquired at fair value 

Consideration given : 
Cash 
Working capital adjustment 
Contingent consideration 

$ 

Preliminary 

16 
61 
317 
7 
79 
906 
1,777 
3,163 

333 
186 
519 

$ 

2,644 

1,438 
84 
1,122 

$ 

2,644 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 57 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

Year ended March 31, 2016 

Nümédia 

On February 15, 2016, the Corporation purchased all of the outstanding shares of 9076-3392 Québec Inc. (“Nümédia”) for 

a total consideration of $2,099. This acquisition will enable the Corporation to strengthen its Canadian operations. As a 

result of the acquisition, goodwill of $985 has been recognized and is related to the operating synergies expected to be 

achieved from integrating the acquired business into the Corporation’s existing assets. The goodwill will not be deductible 

for tax purposes.  

The fair value of acquired trade receivables was $254 which represented the gross contractual amount. The contingent 

consideration  arrangement  requires  the  Corporation  to  pay,  in  cash,  to  the  former  owners,  a  certain  multiple  of  the 

revenues  for  12  months  and  other  conditions,  of  up  to  $300.  The  fair  value  of  the  contingent  consideration  has  been 

determined using an income approach based on the estimated amount and timing of projected cash flows. 

The Corporation has adjusted the assessment of the fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed related to 

this acquisition and some adjustments to the preliminary assessment have been recorded in the statement of financial 

position  as  shown  below.  The  comparative  figures  have  been  adjusted  to  reflect  these  changes.  The  contingent 

consideration was settled in April 2017. 

Assets acquired : 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Accounts receivable 
Other current assets 
Property and equipment 
Intangible assets 
Goodwill 

Liabilities assumed : 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 
Long-term debt 
Deferred tax liabilities 

Preliminary as at 
March 31, 2016 

Adjustments

Final 

$ 

257 
260 
33 
185 
841 
775 
2,351 

289 
185 
26 
500 

$ 

$ 

(6) 

210 
204 

(44) 

(44) 

257 
254 
33 
185 
841 
985 
2,555 

245 
185 
26 
456 

Net assets acquired at fair value 

$ 

1,851 

$ 

248 

$ 

2,099 

Consideration given : 
Cash 
Working capital adjustment 
Balance payable on business acquisition 

1,700 
– 
151 

99 
149 

1,700 
99 
300 

$ 

1,851 

$ 

248 

$ 

2,099 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 58 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

iConcerts  

On  December  17,  2015,  the  Corporation  purchased  all  of  the  outstanding  shares  of  Transmedia  Communications  SA 

(“iConcerts”) for a total consideration of CHF5,600 (CA$7,810). This acquisition will enable the Corporation to strengthen 

its international operations within Europe. As a result of the acquisition, goodwill of $7,133 has been recognized and is 

related to the operating synergies expected to be achieved from integrating the acquired business into the Corporation’s 

existing worldwide assets. The goodwill will not be deductible for tax purposes.  

The fair value of acquired trade receivables was $781. The gross contractual amount for trade receivables due is $1,587, 

of which $806 is expected to be uncollectible. The contingent consideration arrangement requires the Corporation to pay, 

in cash, to the former owners, a certain multiple of the revenues for 12 months and other conditions, of up to CHF2,100 

(CA$2,798) and would be payable on November 30, 2016. Based on management estimates it has been determined that 

the fair value of the contingent consideration was nil. 

The Corporation finalized the assessment of the fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed related to this 

acquisition and some adjustments to the preliminary assessment have been recorded in the statement of financial position 

as shown below. The comparative figures have been adjusted to reflect these changes. 

Assets acquired : 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Accounts receivable 
Other current assets 
Property and equipment 
Intangible assets 
Goodwill 

Liabilities assumed : 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 
Income taxes payable 
Deferred tax liabilities 

Preliminary as at 
March 31, 2016 

Adjustments

Final 

$ 

$ 

(131) 
(23) 

154 
– 

$ 

505 
912 
451 
51 
2,450 
6,979 
11,348 

3,433 
– 
105 
3,538 

505 
781 
428 
51 
2,450 
7,133 
11,348 

3,433 
– 
105 
3,538 

Net assets acquired at fair value 

$ 

7,810 

$ 

– 

$ 

7,810 

Consideration given : 
Cash 

7,810 

7,810 

$ 

7,810 

$ 

– 

$ 

7,810 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 59 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

Digital Media Distribution 

On  December  14,  2015,  the Corporation  purchased  all  of  the  outstanding  shares  of  Digital  Music  Distribution  Pty  Ltd. 

(“DMD”) for a total consideration of AUD11,990 (CA$11,853). This acquisition will enable the Corporation to strengthen its 

international operations within Asia-Pacific. As a result of the acquisition, goodwill of $6,958 has been recognized and is 

related to the operating synergies expected to be achieved from integrating the acquired business into the Corporation’s 

existing worldwide assets. The goodwill will not be deductible for tax purposes. The fair value of acquired trade receivables 

was  $98  which  represented  the  gross  contractual  amount.  The  contingent  consideration  arrangement  requires  the 

Corporation  to  pay,  in  cash,  to  the  former  owners,  AUD4,002  (CA$4,071)  upon  renewal  of  clients’  contracts  before 

December 2017.  

The Corporation finalized the assessment of the fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed related to this 

acquisition and some adjustments to the preliminary assessment have been recorded in the statement of financial position 

as shown below. The comparative figures have been adjusted to reflect these changes.  

Assets acquired : 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Accounts receivable 
Other current assets 
Intangible assets 
Goodwill 

Liabilities assumed : 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 
Deferred tax liabilities 

Preliminary as at 
March 31, 2016 

Adjustments

Final 

$ 

205 
98 
297 
5,500 
7,326 
13,426 

287 
1,286 
1,573 

$ 

$ 

(368) 
(368) 

(368) 
(368) 

205 
98 
297 
5,500 
6,958 
13,058 

287 
918 
1,205 

Net assets acquired at fair value 

$ 

11,853 

$ 

– 

$ 

11,853 

Consideration given : 
Cash 
Working capital adjustment 
Contingent consideration 

7,679 
218 
3,956 

7,679 
218 
3,956 

$ 

11,853 

$ 

– 

$ 

11,853 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 60 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

Brava Group 

In July 2015, the Corporation purchased all of the outstanding shares of Brava HDTV B.V., Brava NL B.V. and DjazzTV 

B.V. (“Brava Group”) for a total consideration of EUR8,334 (CA$11,548). This acquisition will enable the Corporation to 

strengthen its international operations within Europe. As a result of the acquisition, goodwill of $7,221 has been recognized 

and  is  related  to  the  operating  synergies  expected  to  be  achieved  from  integrating  the  acquired  business  into  the 

Corporation’s existing worldwide assets. The goodwill will not be deductible for tax purposes.  

The fair value of acquired trade receivables was $1,882, which represented the gross contractual amount. The contingent 

consideration  arrangement  requires  the  Corporation  to  pay,  in  cash,  to  the  former  owners,  a  certain  multiple  of  the 

revenues for 36 months, of up to EUR2,971 (CA$4,234) and will be paid out on each anniversary date for the next three 

years, ending in June 2018. The fair value of the contingent consideration has been determined using an income approach 

based on the estimated amount and timing of projected cash flows and discounted for time value. 

The Corporation finalized the assessment of the fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed related to this 

acquisition and some adjustments to the preliminary assessment have been recorded in the statement of financial position 

as shown below. The comparative figures have been adjusted to reflect these changes.  

Assets acquired : 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Accounts receivable 
Prepaid expense and other current assets 
Property and equipment 
Intangible assets 
Goodwill 

Liabilities assumed : 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 
Income taxes payable 
Deferred tax liabilities 

Preliminary as at 
March 31, 2016 

Adjustments

Final 

$ 

282 
1,594 
164 
61 
4,795 
7,428 
14,324 

1,186 
391 
1,199 
2,776 

$ 

$ 

288 

(207) 
81 

81 

81 

282 
1,882 
164 
61 
4,795 
7,221 
14,405 

1,267 
391 
1,199 
2,857 

Net assets acquired at fair value 

$ 

11,548 

$ 

– 

$ 

11,548 

Consideration given : 
Cash 
Working capital adjustment 
Contingent consideration 

8,502 
300 
2,746 

8,502 
300 
2,746 

$ 

11,548 

$ 

– 

$ 

11,548 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 61 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

Significant estimate: 

Under the acquisition method, on the date that control is obtained, the identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities 

of the acquired business are measured at their fair values (level 3 fair value measurements). Depending on the complexity 

of determining the valuation for certain assets, the Corporation uses appropriate valuation techniques in arriving at the 

estimated  fair  value  at  the  acquisition  date  for  these  assets  and  liabilities.  These  valuations  are generally  based  on  a 

forecast of the total expected future discounted cash flows and relate closely to the assumptions made by management 

regarding the future performance of the related assets and the discount rate applied as it would be assumed by a market 

participant. 

4.  Segment information: 

Business description 

The Corporation is incorporated under the Canada Business Corporations Act. The Corporation is domiciled in Canada 

and its registered office is located at 730 Wellington, Montréal, Québec, H3C 1T4. The Corporation is a provider of multi-

platform music services. It broadcasts high quality music and video content on a number of platforms including digital TV, 

satellite TV, IPTV, the Internet, mobile devices and game consoles. 

Operating segments 

Under IFRS 8 “Operating Segments” the Corporation determined that it operated in a single operating segment for the 

years  ended  March  31,  2017  and  2016  since  operations,  resources  and  assets  are  mainly  centralized,  optimized  and 

managed in Canada. International operations are leveraged from Canadian expertise. 

The  following  tables  provide  geographic  information  on  Corporation’s  revenues,  property  and  equipment,  intangibles 

assets and goodwill. 

Revenue is derived from the following geographic areas based on selling locations. 

Revenues 
Canada 
Other countries 

2017 

$ 

$ 

56,129 
45,372 

101,501 

Long term assets are derived from the following geographic areas based on subsidiaries locations. 

Property and equipment, intangible assets and goodwill 
Canada 
Netherlands 
United Kingdom 
Australia 
Germany 
Other countries 

$ 

2017 

52,172 
23,057 
14,954 
11,600 
7,679 
14,181 

$ 

$ 

$ 

2016 

53,536 
36,408 

89,944 

2016 

53,734 
18,604 
16,857 
12,249 
– 
12,890 

$ 

123,643 

$ 

114,334 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 62 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

5.  Other information: 

Expenses by nature are as follows: 

Salaries and other short-term employee benefits 
Research and development 
Equipment costs 
Share-based compensation 
Restricted share units 
Deferred share units 

$ 

2017 

24,964 
6,994 
4,493 
1,332 
1,112 
896 

$ 

2016 

19,780 
5,725 
4,505 
1,351 
592 
371 

The following table shows the depreciation and amortization and IPO expenses and CRTC tangible benefits allocated by 

function: 

Depreciation, amortization and write-off : 
Music programming, cost of services and content 
General and administrative 

IPO expenses and CRTC tangible benefits : 
Music programming, cost of services and content 
General and administrative 

2017 

15,612 
1,556 
17,168 

– 
– 
– 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

2016 

13,749 
1,279 
15,028 

4,158 
1,663 
5,821 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

Music programming, cost of services and content and general and administrative expenses would have been, respectively, 

$50,882 (2016 – $49,314) and $20,557 (2016 – $16,189), if the presentation by function of depreciation, amortization and 

write-off expense and IPO expenses and CRTC tangible benefits had been adopted in the statements of comprehensive 

income. 

Transaction costs related to business acquisitions amounting to $351 (2016 – $691) have been recognized in general and 

administrative in the statements of comprehensive income. 

Share  of  the  profit  of  a  joint  venture  of  $66  has  been  presented  in  general  and  administrative  in  the  statements  of 

comprehensive income (2016 – $105). Dividends received from the joint venture amounted to $143 (2016 - $148). 

6.  Net finance (income) expense: 

Interest expense and standby fees 
Change in fair value of contingent consideration  
Change in fair value of derivative 
Accretion expense on CRTC tangible benefits payable 
Amortization and write-off of financing fees 
Foreign exchange gain 

2017 

1,170 
822 
– 
287 
213 
(456) 
2,036 

$ 

$ 

2016 

1,627 
(2,064) 
(107) 
248 
263 
(385) 
(418) 

$ 

$ 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 63 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

7. 

Income taxes: 

The income taxes expense (recovery) consists of the following: 

Current income tax: 
Current year 
Adjustment for prior years 

Deferred income tax : 
Origination and reversal of temporary differences 
Adjustment for prior years 
Change in recognized tax losses and deductible temporary 

differences 

$ 

2017 

2,103 
18 

2,121 

137 
21 

(5,875) 
(5,717) 

$ 

2016 

4,160 
70 

4,230 

(447) 
(67) 

(3,441) 
(3,955) 

Total income tax expense (recovery) 

$ 

(3,596) 

$ 

275 

The following table reconciles income taxes computed at the Canadian statutory rate of 26.9% (2016 – 26.9%) and the 

total income tax expense for the years ended March 31: 

2017 

2016 

Income before income taxes 

$ 

7,121 

$ 

14,156 

Income tax at the combined Canadian statutory rate 
(Decrease) increase resulting from: 

Impact of foreign tax rate differences 
Permanent differences 
Non taxable portion of capital gain 
Change in recognized tax losses and deductible temporary 

differences 

Withholdings taxes 
Change in future tax rate applicable to investments 
Other 

Total income tax expense (recovery) 

$ 

Significant estimate 

1,916 

(541) 
31 
(51) 

(5,875) 
973 
– 
(49) 
(3,596) 

3,808 

(599) 
1,009 
(993) 

(3,441) 
1,170 
(687) 
8 

275 

$ 

Recorded  income  taxes  and  tax  credits  are  subject  to  review  and  approval  by  tax  authorities  and  therefore,  could  be 

different from the amounts recorded. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 64 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

Recognized deferred tax assets and liabilities: 

The tax effects of significant components of temporary differences that give rise to deferred tax assets and liabilities are 

as follows: 

2017 

2016 

Assets 

Liabilities 

Assets 

Liabilities 

$ 

Property and equipment 
Intangible assets and goodwill 
Financing fees 
Tax losses carried forward 
Investments 
CRTC tangible benefits 
Restricted and performance share unit 
Balance payable on business 

acquisitions 

Others 
Tax assets and liabilities 
Offsetting of assets and liabilities 

409  $ 
112 
1,554 
10,644 
– 
1,002 
835 

924 
112 
15,592 
(3,367) 

  $ 

17 
5,944 
– 
– 
1,981 
– 
– 

– 
130 
8,072 
(3,367) 

339  $ 
114 
2,016 
7,034 
– 
1,138 
273 

– 
– 
10,914 
(3,429) 

Net deferred tax assets and liabilities 

$ 

12,225  $ 

4,705 

  $ 

7,485  $ 

22 
5,177 
– 
– 
1,930 
– 
– 

– 
45 
7,174 
(3,429) 

3,745 

Changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities for the year ended March 31, 2017 are as follow: 

$ 

Property and equipment 
Intangible assets and goodwill 
Financing fees 
Tax losses carried forward 
Investments 
CRTC tangible benefits 
Restricted and performance share unit 
Balance payable on business 

Balance  
as at 
March 31, 
2016 
317 
(5,063) 
2,016 
7,034 
(1,930) 
1,138 
273 

Recognized 
in net 
income 
75 
1,521 
(462) 
4,181 
(51) 
(136) 
562 

Recognized 
in equity 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

Exchange 
rate change 
– 
(41) 
– 
(571) 
– 
– 
– 

Business 
acquisitions 
– 
(2,249) 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

Balance  
as at 
March 31, 
2017 
392 
(5,832) 
1,554 
10,644 
(1,981) 
1,002 
835 

acquisitions 

Others 

– 
(45) 

– 
27 

$ 

3,740 

5,717 

– 

– 

10 
– 

914 
– 

924 
(18) 

(602) 

(1,335) 

7,520 

Changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities for the year ended March 31, 2016 are as follow: 

$ 

Property and equipment 
Intangible assets and goodwill 
Financing fees 
Tax losses carried forward 
Investments 
CRTC tangible benefits 
Restricted and performance share unit 
Others 

Balance  
as at 
March 31, 
2015 
224 
(3,103) 
157 
4,446 
(1,624) 
– 
55 
302 

Recognized 
in net 
income 
93 
1,728 
(134) 
1,565 
(306) 
1,138 
218 
(347) 

Recognized 
in equity 
– 
– 
1,993 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

Exchange 
rate change 
– 
(164) 
– 
(253) 
– 
– 
– 
– 

Business 
acquisitions 
– 
(3,524) 
– 
1,276 
– 
– 
– 
– 

Balance  
as at 
March 31, 
2016 
317 
(5,063) 
2,016 
7,034 
(1,930) 
1,138 
273 
(45) 

$ 

457 

3,955 

1,993 

(417) 

(2,248) 

3,740 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 65 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

Unrecognized deferred tax assets: 

The Corporation has operating tax losses carried forward of $102,133 that are available to reduce future taxable income. 

A  tax  benefit  was  not  recognized  for  $42,694  of  these  tax  losses  carried  forward.  Deferred  tax  assets  have  not  been 

recognized in respect of these items because it is not probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the 

Corporation can utilized the benefits therefrom. As at March 31, 2017 and 2016, the amounts and expiry dates of the tax 

losses carried forward and other unrecognized deductible temporary differences without time limitation were as follows: 

2017 

2016 

  Switzerland 

  United 

Canada 

Australia 

  Switzerland 

United 
Kingdom 

$ 

Kingdom 

5,157  $ 
4,540 
5,036 
4,769 
3,420 
2,030 
336 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

–  $ 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
76,845 

Tax losses carried 

forward: 

2017 
2018 
2019 
2020 
2021 
2022 
2023 
2026 
2027 
2028 
2029 
2030 
Indefinite 
Other deductible 
temporary 
difference without 
time limitation 

–  $ 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
23 
373 
84 
49 
7 
– 

–  $ 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
684 

8,040  $ 
4,613 
5,116 
4,844 
3,474 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
88,072 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

5,217 

$ 

25,288 

76,845 

536  $ 

684 

26,087  $ 

93,289 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 66 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

Unrecognized deferred tax liabilities:  

The Corporation has not recognized a deferred tax liability for the undistributed earnings of its subsidiaries in the current 

and prior years because the Corporation does not currently expect those undistributed earnings to reverse and become 

taxable in the foreseeable future. A deferred income tax liability will be recognized when the Corporation expects that it 

will recover those undistributed earnings in a taxable manner, such as the sale of the investment or through the receipt of 

dividends. 

8.  Earnings per share: 

2017 

2016 

Net income 

$ 

10,717 

$ 

13,881 

Basic weighted average number of common share and subordinate 
voting shares, variable subordinate voting shares and multiple 
voting shares 

Dilutive effect of stock options 
Diluted weighted average number of common share and 

subordinated voting shares, variable subordinated voting shares 
and multiple voting shares 

  51,242,611 
254,899 

  47,822,515 
557,738 

  51,497,510 

  48,380,253 

Earnings per share – Basic 
Earnings per share – Diluted 

9.  Trade and other receivables: 

Trade 
Other receivables 
Sales taxes receivable 

$ 
$ 

$ 

$ 

0.21 
0.21 

2017 

24,201 
1,797 
1,022 

27,020 

$ 
$ 

$ 

$ 

0.29 
0.29 

2016 

25,602 
2,314 
681 

28,597 

10.  Research and development tax credits: 

As  at  March  31,  2017,  tax  credits  receivable  of  $486  (2016  -  $236)  comprise  research  and  development  tax  credits 

receivable from the provincial and federal governments which relate to qualified research and development expenditures 

under the applicable tax laws. The amounts recorded as receivables are subject to a government tax audit and the final 

amounts received may differ from those recorded. 

11.  Inventories: 

Music transmission equipment hardware 
Television equipment, speakers and other 

2017 

550 
683 

1,233 

$ 

$ 

2016 

586 
324 

910 

$ 

$ 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 67 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

12.  Property and equipment: 

Cost: 
Balance at March 31, 2015 
Additions 
Additions through business acquisitions 
Disposals and write-off 
Foreign exchange differences 
Balance at March 31, 2016 

Additions 
Additions through business acquisitions 
Disposals and write-off 
Foreign exchange differences 
Balance at March 31, 2017 

Accumulated depreciation: 
Balance at March 31, 2015 
Depreciation for the year 
Disposal and write-off 
Foreign exchange differences 
Balance at March 31, 2016 

Depreciation for the year 
Disposals and write-off 
Foreign exchange differences 
Balance at March 31, 2017 

Net carrying amounts: 
March 31, 2016 
March 31, 2017 

Furniture, 
fixtures and 
equipment 

Computer 
hardware 

Other 

Total 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

5,962  $ 
807 
44 
(224) 
(2) 
6,587 

1,868 
– 
(408) 
43 
8,090 

3,097 
869 
(58) 
– 
3,908  $ 

992 
(311) 
41 
4,630  $ 

3,664  $ 
1,019 
246 
(3) 
6 
4,932 

973 
90 
– 
(5) 
5,990 

2,508 
854 
(3) 
4 
3,363  $ 

1,077 
– 
(4) 
4,436  $ 

857  $ 
320 
7 
– 
1 
1,185 

194 
– 
– 
3 
1,382 

548 
257 
– 
– 
805  $ 

252 
– 
3 
1,060  $ 

10,483 
2,146 
297 
(227) 
5 
12,704 

3,035 
90 
(408) 
41 
15,462 

6,153 
1,980 
(61) 
4 
8,076 

2,321 
(311) 
40 
10,126 

2,679  $ 
3,460  $ 

1,569  $ 
1,554  $ 

380  $ 
322  $ 

4,628 
5,336 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 68 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

13.  Intangible assets: 

Music 
catalog 

Client list 
and 
relationships 

Trademark 

Licenses, 
website 
application 
and 
computer 
software 

Non-
compete 
agreement 

Total 

$ 

7,735 
352 

$  74,600 
– 

$ 

156 
(1) 
8,242 

11,818 
296 
  86,714 

300 

234 

– 

2,081 

1,904 
(281) 
(6) 
10,393 

4,000 
– 
(15) 
  92,780 

3,236 
530 
1 
3,767 

  38,568 
  10,634 
3 
  49,205 

665 
(281) 
(1) 
4,150 

  11,941 
– 
(29) 
$  61,117 

4,475 
6,243 

$  37,509 
$  31,663 

$ 

$ 
$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

2,882 
– 

1,492 
3 
4,377 

$ 

4,977 
883 

$ 

3,524  $  93,718 
1,235 

– 

264 
(1) 
6,123 

79 
2 
3,605 

13,809 
299 
  109,061 

5 

837 

– 

1,142 

2,790 

– 
– 
56 
7,228 

589 
336 
– 
925 

606 
– 
(2) 
1,529 

3,452 
5,699 

$ 

$ 
$ 

2,489 

1,603 

9,197 

– 
(19) 
89 
9,519 

3,981 
872 
(1) 
4,852 

998 
(19) 
49 
5,880 

1,271 
3,639 

$ 

$ 
$ 

– 
– 
13 
5,221 

5,904 
(300) 
137 
  125,141 

1,903 
510 
(2) 
2,411 

  48,277 
  12,882 
1 
  61,160 

540 
– 
(5) 

  14,750 
(300) 
12 
2,946  $  75,622 

1,194  $  47,901 
2,275  $  49,519 

Cost: 
Balance at March 31, 2015 
Additions 
Additions through  

business acquisitions 

Foreign exchange differences 
Balance at March 31, 2016 

Additions 
Additions through  

business acquisition 

Additions through  
asset acquisition 
Disposals and write-off 
Foreign exchange differences 
Balance at March 31, 2017 

Accumulated depreciation: 
Balance at March 31, 2015 
Amortization for the year 
Foreign exchange differences 
Balance at March 31, 2016 

Amortization for the year 
Disposals and write-off 
Foreign exchange differences 
Balance at March 31, 2017 

Net carrying amounts: 
March 31, 2016 
March 31, 2017 

14.  Goodwill: 

Balance, beginning of year 

Business acquisitions (note 3) 
Foreign exchange differences 

Balance, end of year 

2017 

61,805 
6,736 
247 
68,788 

$ 

$ 

2016 
(recasted- see note 3) 

$ 

$ 

39,129 
22,297 
379 

61,805 

For  the  purpose  of  impairment  testing,  goodwill  of  $68,788  was  allocated  to  the  single  cash  generating  unit  (CGU) 

representing all music services. The Corporation performed its annual impairment test for goodwill during the last quarter 

of  2017.  The  recoverable  value  of  the  CGU  exceeded  its  carrying  value.  There  is  no  reasonable  possible  change  in 

assumptions that would cause the carrying amount to exceed the estimated recoverable amount. As a result, no goodwill 

impairment was recorded. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 69 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

Valuation technique and significant estimate 

The recoverable value of the CGU was based on fair value less costs to sell. The following methodology and assumptions 
were applied to determine the fair value less costs to sell. 

The fair value less costs to sell was calculated using unobservable (Level 3) inputs such as the budgeted and projected 

2018-2022 revenues and EBITDA margin. The EBITDA is defined as net income before net finance costs, change in fair 

value of investment, income taxes, depreciation and amortization. The Corporation considered past experience, economic 

trends as well as industry and market trends in assessing if the level of EBITDA can be maintained in the future. For the 

purpose of this test, management uses a five-year period to project future cash flows. Beyond this period, the Corporation 

uses  a  growth  rate  of  2%  with  an  EBITDA  margin  of  35%.  The  Corporation  also  used  a  discount  rate  of  10%,  which 

represents the weighted average cost of capital (“WACC”). The WACC is an estimate of the overall rate of return required 

by debt and  equity holders  on their investment. Determining the WACC requires analyzing  the cost of  equity  and debt 

separately, and takes into account a risk premium that is based on the CGU. 

For the purpose of impairment testing of tangible and intangible assets and goodwill, management must use its judgment 

to identify the smallest group of assets that generates cash inflows that are largely independent of those from other assets 

(CGU).  

The amounts used for impairment calculations are based on estimates of future cash flows of the Corporation, including 

estimates of future revenues, EBITDA, discount rates (WACC) and market prices.  

By  their  nature,  these  estimates  and  assumptions  are  subject  to  measurement  uncertainty  and,  consequently,  actual 

results could differ from estimates used. 

15.  Investments: 

Balance, beginning of year 

Additions during the year 
Change in fair value during the year,  
including foreign exchange gain 

Balance, end of year 

$ 

2017 

16,943 
– 

408 

$ 

17,351 

2016 

7,933 
1,665 

7,345 

16,943 

$ 

$ 

Investments consists of an investment in convertible preferred shares of a private entity, AppDirect and an investment in 

a convertible note of a private entity, Multi-Channels Asia PTE Ltd. (“MCA”).  

AppDirect 

The investment made by the Corporation into convertible preferred shares of AppDirect is classified as measured at fair 

value through profit and loss. On September 21, 2015, the Corporation invested US$300 (CA$330) in convertible preferred 
shares.  The  fair  value  of  this  investment  is  US$12,046  (CA$16,021)  as  at  March  31,  2017  and  was  US$12,046 
(CA$15,644) as at March 31, 2016.  

MCA 

The investment made by the Corporation into convertible note of MCA is classified as at fair value through profit and loss. 

On November 11, 2015, the Corporation invested US$1,000 (CA$1,335) in convertible note. The convertible note matures 

in five years, bears interest at 7% per annum and the principal amount is convertible, at the option of the Corporation, into 
common  shares  of  MCA,  at  any  time,  until  maturity.  The  fair  value  of  this  investment  is  US$1,000  (CA$1,330)  as  at 
March 31, 2017 and was US$1,000 (CA$1,299) as at March 31, 2016.  

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 70 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

Significant estimate 

The  fair  value  of  investments  that  are  not  traded  in  an  active  market  is  determined  using  valuation  techniques.  The 

Corporation  uses  judgment  to  select  a  variety  of  methods  and  make  assumptions  that  are  mainly  based  on  market 

conditions existing at the end of each reporting year. For details on the key assumptions used and the impact of changes 

to these assumptions see note 24. 

16.  Accounts payable and accrued liabilities: 

Trade 
Accrued liabilities 
Sales taxes payable 

17.  Loans and borrowings: 

Movements in loans and borrowings are as follows: 

Year ended March 31, 2016 
Opening net book amount as at March 31, 2015 
Increase in revolving facility (net) 
Repayments of borrowings 
Amortization and write-off of financing fees 
Closing net book amount as at March 31, 2016 

Current portion 
Non-current portion 

Year ended March 31, 2017 
Opening net book amount as at March 31, 2016 
Increase in revolving facility (net) 
Closing net book amount as at March 31, 2017 

Current portion 
Non-current portion 

Revolving credit facility 

2017 

8,125 
20,834 
824 

29,783 

$ 

$ 

2016 

8,624 
16,474 
1,538 

26,636 

$ 

$ 

Revolving facility 

Bridge loan 

Term loan 

$ 

$ 

$ 

7,902 
27,133 
– 
– 
35,035 

– 
35,035 

$ 

$ 

$ 

20,000 
– 
(20,000) 
– 
– 

– 
– 

$ 

$ 

$ 

80,835 
– 
(80,960) 
125 
– 

– 
– 

Revolving facility 

Bridge loan 

Term loan 

$ 

$ 

$ 

35,035 
6,005 
41,040 

– 
41,040 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

– 
– 
– 

– 
– 

– 
– 
– 

– 
– 

On November 17, 2016, the Corporation renegotiated its credit agreement in order to merge the outstanding balance of 

the term loan into the amended revolving credit facility (“revolving facility”), to provide for the repayment of the bridge loan, 

to  increase  its  borrowing  capacity  to  $100,000  and  to make  modifications  in  relation to  interest,  maturity,  security  and 

covenants. The revolving facility matures in June 2020, bears interest at an annual rate equal to the banker’s acceptance 

rate  plus  1.50%  and  is  secured  by  guarantees  from  subsidiaries  and  first  ranking  lien  on  universality  of  all  its  assets, 

tangible and intangible, present and future. In addition, the Corporation incurs standby fees of 0.30% on the unused portion 

of the revolving facility. The Corporation is required to comply with financial covenants. 

As at March 31, 2017, the Corporation was in compliance with all the requirements of its credit agreement.  

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 71 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

Term loan 

The term loan was repaid on June 11, 2015, was bearing interest at prime rate plus the applicable margin (between 1.00% 

and 3.00%), representing an interest rate of 4.85% at March 31, 2015, and was maturing on December 18, 2016. 

Bridge loan 

The Corporation repaid in full the outstanding amount on June 11, 2015. The bridge loan was bearing interest at an annual 

rate equal to either the prime loans or acceptances rates plus 3.00% and 4.00% up to December 13, 2015 respectively, 

and 3.50% and 4.50%, respectively, thereafter, representing an interest rate of 6.85% at March 31, 2015, was maturing in 

March  2016  and  was  secured  by  guarantees  from  subsidiaries  and  first  ranking  lien  on  universality  of  tangible  and 

intangible assets. Under the credit agreement, the Corporation was to comply with quarterly financial covenants. 

18.  Other payables: 

Other payables consist of the following: 

Contingent consideration 
Balance payable on business acquisitions 
CRTC tangible benefits 
Post employment benefit obligations 

Current portion 

2017 

12,956 
5,845 
3,724 
13 

22,538 

(9,498) 

13,040 

$ 

$ 

2016 

12,196 
300 
4,230 
124 

16,850 

(8,006) 

8,844 

$ 

$ 

Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) tangible benefits 

The CRTC approved the change in ownership and effective control of the Corporation on April 22, 2015. Pursuant to the 

decision, the CRTC requires the Corporation to pay tangible benefits corresponding to an amount of $5,508 over a seven-

year period in equal annual payments. The Corporation recognized an expense of $4,382 in 2016, which reflects the fair 

value  of the  payment  stream  using  a  discount  rate  of  7.0%,  which  is  the  Corporation  effective  interest  rate  plus  a  risk 

premium.  On  August  18,  2015, the Canadian  Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission  (CRTC) issued a 

decision renewing until August 31, 2020 the Corporation’s broadcast license. 

Significant estimate – contingent consideration 

In the event that certain predetermined sales volumes, specific contract renewals and other conditions are achieved by 

the acquired companies, additional consideration may be payable in the future. 

The  fair  value  of  the  contingent  consideration  of  $12,956  was  estimated  by  calculating  the  present  value  of  the  future 

expected outflows. For details of the key assumptions used and the impact of changes to these assumptions, see note 24. 

The estimates are based on a discount rate ranging from 5% to 15%. During the year ended March 31, 2017, the contingent 

consideration of Brava Group, Archibald Media Group, Les Réseaux Urbains Viva Inc., and iConcerts have been reviewed, 

as the actual sales revenue expected to be achieved by the acquired companies are either above or below the maximum 

threshold. An aggregate gain of $223 (net of accretion expense of $1,045) was included in net finance expense. During 

the year ended March 31, 2017, the contingent consideration of Archibald Media Group was paid and payments were also 

made for the contingent consideration of Telefonica – On the Spot and Brava Group (see note 24).  

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 72 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

19.  Share capital: 

Authorized: 

Prior to the closing of the initial public offering (the “Offering”), the Corporation’s authorized share capital was comprised 

of an unlimited number of Class A, B, and C common shares, voting and participating, without par value and an unlimited 

number of Class A, B and C preferred shares, voting and non-participating, without par value. 

The Corporation’s authorized share capital was amended immediately prior to the closing of the Offering and all the classes 

of shares included in the authorized share capital of the Corporation prior to the amendment were repealed and replaced 

by: 

Unlimited number of subordinate voting shares, participating, without par value 

Unlimited number of variable subordinate voting shares, participating, without par value 

Unlimited number of multiple voting shares (10 votes per share), participating, without par value 

Unlimited number of special shares, participating, without par value 

Unlimited number of preferred shares issuable in one or more series, non-participating, without par value 

Issued and outstanding: 

The movements in share capital were as follows: 

Year ended March 31, 2016 
As at March 31, 2015 
Class A common shares 
Class B common shares 
Class C common shares 

Issued upon exercise of stock options 
Class A common shares 

Converted 
Class A common shares 
Class B common shares 
Class C common shares 
Subordinate voting shares and variable subordinate voting shares 
Multiple voting shares 

Issued upon initial public offering and exercise of over-allotment option 
Subordinate voting shares and variable subordinate voting shares 
Share issuance costs, net of income taxes of $1,993 

Issued upon exercise of stock options 
Subordinate voting shares 

As at March 31, 2016 
Subordinate voting shares and variable subordinate voting shares 
Multiple voting shares 

Number of 
shares 

Carrying amount 

17,751,369 
6,229,719 
10,000,000 
33,981,088 

80,000 

(17,831,369) 
(6,229,719) 
(10,000,000) 
17,766,803 
16,294,285 
– 

16,647,100 
– 

$ 

2,228 
12 
– 
2,240 

192 

(2,420) 
(12) 
– 
1,316 
1,116 
– 

104,044 
(5,542) 

399,787 

1,106 

34,813,690 
16,294,285 
51,107,975 

100,924 
1,116 
102,040 

$ 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 73 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

Year ended March 31, 2017 
As at March 31, 2016 
Subordinate voting shares and variable subordinate voting shares 
Multiple voting shares 

Issued upon exercise of stock options 
Subordinate voting shares 

As at March 31, 2017 
Subordinate voting shares and variable subordinate voting shares 
Multiple voting shares 

Number of shares 

Carrying amount 

34,813,690 
16,294,285 
51,107,975 

218,391 

35,032,081 
16,294,285 
51,326,366 

$ 

$ 

100,924 
1,116 
102,040 

660 

101,584 
1,116 
102,700 

To comply with the Broadcasting Act and the regulations and directions promulgated thereunder from time to time, which 

permit non-Canadians (as defined in the Direction to the CRTC (Ineligibility of Non-Canadians) (SOR/97-192)) to own and 

control,  directly  or  indirectly,  up  to  20%  of  the  voting  shares  and  20%  of  the  votes  of  an  operating  licensee  that  is  a 

corporation, such as the Corporation, the Corporation has imposed restrictions respecting the issuance, transfer and, if 

applicable, voting of the Corporation’s shares. Restrictions include limitations over foreign ownership of the issued and 

outstanding voting shares. 

Transactions for the year ended March 31, 2017 

During the year, 218,391 stock options were exercised and consequently, the Corporation issued 218,391 subordinate 

voting shares. The proceeds amounted to $262. An amount of $398 of contributed surplus related to those stock options 

was transferred to the subordinate voting shares’ account balance. 

On February 2, 2017, the Corporation declared a dividend of $0.045 per subordinate voting share, variable subordinate 

voting share and multiple voting share. The dividend of $2,309 was paid on March 15, 2017. 

On November 10, 2016, the Corporation declared a dividend of $0.040 per subordinate voting share, variable subordinate 

voting share and multiple voting share. The dividend of $2,053 was paid on December 15, 2016. 

On  August  3, 2016,  the  Corporation  declared  a  dividend  of  $0.040  per  subordinate  voting  share,  variable  subordinate 

voting share and multiple voting share. The dividend of $2,052 was paid on September 15, 2016. 

Transactions for the year ended March 31, 2016 

During the year, 479,787 stock options were exercised and consequently, the Corporation issued 80,000 class A common 

shares and 399,787 subordinate voting shares. The proceeds amounted to $384. An amount of $914 of contributed surplus 

related  to  those  stock  options  was  transferred  to  the  Class  A  common  shares  or  subordinate  voting  shares’  account 

balance. 

On March  23, 2016, the Corporation declared a dividend of $0.035  per subordinate voting  share,  variable  subordinate 

voting share and multiple voting share. The dividend of $1,789 was paid on June 15, 2016. 

On February 3, 2016, the Corporation declared a dividend of $0.035 per subordinate voting share, variable subordinate 

voting share and multiple voting share. The dividend of $1,781 was paid on March 15, 2016. 

On November 11, 2015, the Corporation declared a dividend of $0.03 per subordinate voting share, variable subordinate 

voting share and multiple voting share. The dividend of $1,526 was paid on December 15, 2015. 

On  August  11,  2015,  the  Corporation  declared  a  dividend of  $0.03  per  subordinate  voting  share,  variable subordinate 

voting share and multiple voting share. The dividend of $1,523 was paid on September 15, 2015. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 74 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

On June 3, 2015, the Corporation completed the Offering of its subordinate voting shares and variable subordinate voting 

shares with the securities regulatory authorities in each of the provinces and territories of Canada. The Corporation issued 

13,287,100 subordinate voting shares and variable subordinate voting shares and received gross proceeds of $83,044 

from the issuance. On June 9, 2015, the Corporation issued 3,360,000 subordinate voting shares and variable subordinate 

voting shares following the exercise of the over-allotment option granted to the underwriters in connection with the Offering. 

The Corporation received gross proceeds of $21,000 from the issuance. 

Transaction costs for transactions above amounted to $9,198, of which $1,663 has been recognized as an expense in the 

consolidated statements  of  comprehensive  income  and  $7,535 less  tax  benefits  of  $1,993,  amounting  to  $5,542,  as a 

reduction of share capital. 

20.  Supplemental cash flow information: 

Trade and other receivables 
Research and development tax credit 
Inventories 
Other current assets 
Other non-current assets 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 
Deferred revenues 
Income taxes payable 
Other payables (CRTC tangible benefits) 
Other 

2017 

1,401 
(250) 
(315) 
(874) 
(79) 
(1,092) 
166 
(482) 
(793) 
(53) 
(2,371) 

$ 

$ 

2016 

(7,684) 
(214) 
(34) 
169 
124 
1,493 
203 
695 
3,672 
– 
(1,576) 

$ 

$ 

Additions to property and equipment and intangible assets and not affecting cash and cash equivalents amounted to $513  

(2016 – $341) and $9 (2016 – $249), respectively, during the year ended March 31, 2017. 

21. Share-based compensation: 

Stock options plan 

As part of the Offering, the Corporation has established a new stock option plan to attract and retain employees, directors, 

officers and consultants. The plan provides for the granting of options to purchase subordinate voting shares. Under this 

plan, 2,500,000 subordinate voting shares have been reserved for issuance. The terms and conditions for acquiring and 

exercising options are set by the Board of Directors, as well as the term of the options; however, it cannot be more than 

ten years or any other shorter period as specified by the Board of Directors, according to the regulations of the plan. The 

total  number  of  shares issued  to  a  single  person  cannot  exceed  5%  of  the  Corporation’s  total  issued and  outstanding 

common shares on a fully diluted basis. 

Under the former and new stock option plan, 1,397,185 stock options were outstanding as at March 31, 2017. Outstanding 

options are subject to employee service vesting criteria which range from nil to four years of service. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 75 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

The following summarizes the changes in the plan’s position for the years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016: 

2017 

Number of 
options 

Weighted 
average 
exercise price 

2016 

Number of 
options 

Weighted 
average 
exercise price 

Options outstanding, beginning of year 
Granted 
Exercised (note 19) 
Forfeited 
Options outstanding, end of year 

1,288,757  $ 
369,187 
(218,391) 
(42,368) 
1,397,185 

3.50 
7.37 
1.21 
2.26 
3.97 

1,269,699  $ 
512,880 
(479,787) 
(14,035) 
1,288,757 

Exercisable options, end of year 

573,022  $ 

4.97 

482,427  $ 

1.29 
6.43 
0.80 
2.26 
3.50 

1.21 

The following is a summary of the information on the outstanding stock options as at March 31, 2017 and 2016: 

Exercise price(i) 

March 31, 2017 
$  0.46 
1.46 
2.26 
6.25 
7.00 
7.27 
8.20 
9.00 
$  4.93 

March 31, 2016 
$  0.46 
1.46 
2.26 
6.25 
7.00 
$  3.50 

Outstanding 
options 
Weighted average 
outstanding 
contractual life 
outstanding (years) 

Number of options 
outstanding 

155,000 
25,000 
335,118 
387,880 
125,000 
344,215 
8,416 
16,556 
1,397,185 

260,000 
75,000 
440,877 
387,880 
125,000 
1,288,757 

5.18 
6.63 
7.41 
8.12 
2.69 
9.21 
9.61 
9.90 
7.41 

6.11 
7.63 
8.91 
9.12 
9.36 
8.38 

Exercisable 
options 

Number 

155,000 
25,000 
254,385 
107,387 
31,250 
– 
– 
– 
573,022 

260,000 
50,000 
172,427 
– 
– 
482,427 

The weighted average fair value of the stock options granted during the year ended March 31, 2017 was $2.42 per stock 
option (2016 – $3.43). This fair value was estimated at the date on which the options were granted by using the Black-

Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions: 

Weighted average volatility 
Weighted average risk-free interest rate 
Weighted average expected life of options 
Weighted average value of the subordinate voting share at grant date 
Weighted average expected dividend rate 

2017   

2016   

35%   
1.12% – 1.76%   
5 years   
$7.27 – $9.00   
1.78% – 1.95%   

65.0% – 70.0%   
0.73% – 1.01%   
5 – 6.25 years   
$6.43   
nil - 2.0%   

The weighted average volatility used is calculated based on comparable publicly-traded companies. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 76 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
   
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

Total  share  based  compensation  costs  recognized  under  this  stock  option  plan  amount  to  $1,332  for  the  year  ended 
March 31, 2017 (2016 – $1,351). 

The  weighted  average  share  price  at  the  date  of  exercise  for  share  options  exercised  during  the  year  ended 
March 31, 2017 was $7.30 (2016 – $6.93). 

Restricted share unit plan 

The Corporation established on April 1, 2014 a restricted share unit plan (“RSU”) that can be granted to directors, officers, 

executives and employees as part of their long-term compensation package, which is expected to be settled in cash. The 

value of the payout is determined by multiplying the number of RSU vested at the payout date by the fair value of the 

Corporation’s shares on the day prior to the payout date. The fair value of the payout is determined at each reporting date 

based on the fair value of the Company’s shares at the reporting date. The fair value is amortized over the vesting period, 

being three years. 

During  the  year  ended  March  31,  2017,  3,115  RSU  (2016  –  71,531  RSU)  were  granted  at  a  range  of  $7.27  to  $8.59 

(2016 – $6.25)  per  unit  to  executives  and  employees  and  no  RSU  were  vested.  The  total  share-based  compensation 

expense related to RSU plans amounted to $751 in 2017 (2016 – $592). As at March 31, 2017, the fair value per unit was 

$8.43  (2016  –  $7.05)  for  a  total  amount  of  $1,468  (2016  –  $771)  and  was  presented  in  accrued  liabilities  on  the 

consolidated statements of financial position. 

The following summarizes the changes in the plan’s position for the years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016: 

Balance, beginning of year 
Granted 
Revision of estimates 
Liabilities settled 
Forfeited 
Balance, end of year 
Balance, vested 

Performance share unit plan 

2017 

Number of 
units 

Amount 

2016 

Number of 
units 

Amount 

219,772  $ 
3,115 
–

(11,624) 
(13,816) 
197,448  $ 

– 

771 
–
859
(54)
(108)
1,468 
– 

167,387  $ 

71,531
–
(7,974)
(11,172)
219,772  $ 

– 

205 
– 
597
(26)
(5) 
771 
– 

The Corporation established on August 3, 2016, a performance unit plan (PSU) that can be granted to directors, officers, 

executives and employees as part of their long-term compensation package, which is expected to be settled in cash. The 

value of  the payout is determined by multiplying  the number of PSU  vested at the  payout  date  by the  fair value of  the 

Corporation’s shares on the day prior to the payout date. The fair value of the payout is determined at each reporting date 

based on the fair value of the Company’s shares at the reporting date. The fair value is amortized over the vesting period, 

being three years. 

During the year ended March 31, 2017, 135,787 PSU (2016 – nil) were granted at $6.98 (2016 – nil) per unit to executives 

and employees and no PSU were vested. The total share-based compensation expense related to PSU plans amounted 

to $361 in 2017 (2016 – nil). As at March 31 2017, the fair value per unit was $8.43 (2016 – nil) for a total amount of $361 

(2016 – nil) and was presented in accrued liabilities on the consolidated statements of financial position. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 77 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

The following summarizes the changes in the plan’s position for the years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016: 

Balance, beginning of year 
Granted 
Revision of estimates 
Forfeited 
Balance, end of year 
Balance, vested 

Deferred share unit plan 

2017 

Number of 
units 

Amount 

2016 

Number of 
units 

Amount 

–  $ 

135,787 
– 
(4,006) 
131,781  $ 

– 

– 
– 
368 
(7) 
361 
– 

–  $ 
– 
– 
– 
–  $ 
– 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

The Corporation established on June 3, 2015 a deferred share unit plan (“DSU”) that can be granted to directors, officers 

and employees as part of their compensation package, which is expected to be settled in cash. The value of the payout is 

determined by multiplying the number of DSU vested at the payout date by the fair value of the Corporation’s shares on 

the day prior to the payout date. The fair value of the payout is determined at each reporting date based on the fair value 

of the Corporation’s shares at the reporting date. 

During the year ended March 31, 2017, 85,350 DSU (2016 – 52,722) were granted at a range of $8.39 to $8.95 to directors 

(2016  –  $6.90  to  $7.04).  The  total  expense  related  to  DSU  plans  amounted  to  $896  in  2017  (2016  –  $371).  As  at 

March 31, 2017, the fair value per unit was $8.43 (2016 – $7.05) for a total amount of $1,267 (2016 – $371) presented in 

accrued liabilities on the statements of financial position. 

The following summarizes the changes in the plan’s position for the years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016: 

Balance, beginning of year 
Granted 
Revision of estimates 
Balance, end of year 
Balance, vested 

2017 

Number of 
units 

Amount 

2016 

Number of 
units 

Amount 

52,722  $ 
85,350 
– 

138,072  $ 

– 

371 
– 
896 
1,267 
– 

–  $ 

52,722 
– 
52,722  $ 
– 

– 
– 
371 
371 
– 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 78 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

22.  Commitments: 

Operating leases 

As at March 31, 2017, the balance of the commitments under the terms of the operating leases for premises amounts to 

$15,271. Minimum lease payments over the next five years and thereafter are as follows: 

2018 
2019 
2020 
2021 
2022 and thereafter 

$ 

5,152 
3,207 
2,026 
2,022 
2,864 

During the year ended March 31, 2017, an amount of $4,734 (2016 – $5,141) was recognized as an expense in respect 

of operating leases which is included in music programming, cost of services and content and general and administrative 

expenses. 

Broadcast license 

A condition of the broadcast license from the CRTC requires Canadian pay audio services to draw certain proportions of 

their programming from Canadian content and, in most cases, to spend a portion of their revenues on Canadian content 

development. The Corporation must ensure that (i) a maximum of one non-Canadian pay audio channel is packaged or 

linked with each Canadian produced pay audio channel and in no case subscribers of the pay audio service may be offered 

a package of pay audio channels in which foreign-produced channels dominate; (ii) 25% of all Canadian channels, other 

than those consisting entirely of instrumental music or of music entirely in languages other than English or French, devote 

a minimum of 65% of vocal music selections in the French language each broadcast week; and (iii) a minimum of 35% of 

the  musical  selections  broadcast  each  broadcast  week  on  our  Canadian-produced  pay  audio  channels,  considered 

together, are Canadian. 

Pursuant to the conditions of our National Pay Audio Service Licence, the Corporation is required to contribute each year 

a minimum of 4% of our annual Canadian regulated broadcast revenues to encourage Canadian content development in 

the following manner: (i) 1% of gross revenues to be devoted to the Foundation Assisting Canadian Talent On Recordings 

(FACTOR),  a  non-profit  organization  dedicated  to  providing  assistance  toward  the  growth  and  development  of  the 

Canadian music industry; (ii) 1% of gross revenues to be devoted to Musicaction, a non-profit organization dedicated to 

the development of local francophone music by offering financial support to projects by independent record labels and 

Canadian artists; (iii) 1.8% of gross revenues to be devoted to our Stingray Rising Star Program, a program which was 

created to discover, encourage, promote and champion new Canadian artists; and (iv) 0.2% of to be devoted to Community 

Radio  Fund  of  Canada  (CRFC),  a  fund  that  the  mission  is  to  build  and  improve  campus  and  community  radio  for  all 

Canadians through funding and collaborations. 

During the year ended March 31, 2017, an amount of $388 (2016 – $382) was recognized as an expense in the music 

programming, cost of services and content. 

Copyright royalties 

The Corporation must pay royalties for the use of music for the majority of its music services. Through copyright collective 

societies, the Corporation pays royalties to two sets of rights holders: rights holders in music works, which are the music 

and the lyrics; and, rights holders in artists’ performances and sounds recordings, which are the actual performances and 

recordings of the musical works. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 79 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

23.  Use of estimates and judgments: 

The preparation of these consolidated financial statements in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards 

(“IFRS”) requires management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting 

policies  and  the  reported  amounts  of  assets,  liabilities,  income  and  expenses.  Actual  results  may  differ  from  these 

estimates. 

This note provides an overview of the areas that involved a higher degree of judgment or complexity, and of items which 

are more likely to be materially adjusted due to estimates and assumptions turning out to be wrong. Detailed information 

about each of these estimates and judgments is included in notes 4 to 18 together with information about the basis of 

calculation for each affected line item in the consolidated financial statements.  

Significant estimates  

The areas involving significant estimates are: 

  Estimation of current income tax payable and current income tax expense – note 7 

  Recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for carried forward tax losses – note 7 

  Estimated fair value of certain investments – note 15 

  Estimated goodwill impairment – note 14 

  Estimation of fair values  of identified assets, liabilities and contingent consideration  in  business  acquisitions – 

note 3 and 18 

Estimates are based on management’s best knowledge of current events and actions that the Corporation may undertake 

in  the  future.  Estimates  and  underlying  assumptions  are  reviewed  on  an  ongoing  basis.  Any  revision  to  accounting 

estimates are recognized in the year in which the estimates are revised and in any future years affected by these revisions. 

Critical judgments  

Critical judgements in applying accounting policies that have the most significant effect on the amounts recognized in the 

consolidated financial statements include the following: 

 

Impairment of non-current assets 

For the purpose of impairment testing of tangible and intangible assets and goodwill, management must use its 

judgment to identify the smallest group of assets that generates cash inflows that are largely independent of those 

from other assets (“cash generating unit” or ”CGU”).  

The amounts used for impairment calculations are based on estimates of future cash flows of the Corporation, 

including estimates of future revenues, operating costs, discount rates and market prices. By their nature, these 

estimates and assumptions are subject to measurement uncertainty and, consequently, actual results could differ 

from estimates used. 

 

Identifying a business acquisition 

Management must use its judgment in determining whether a transaction is a business combination or a purchase 

of assets in accordance with the criteria established in IFRS 3 Business combinations. The acquisition of an asset 

or a group of assets that constitute a business is accounted for as a business combination and may give rise to 

goodwill,  whereas  an  asset  purchase  does  not,  thereby  impacting  subsequent  amortization  expense  and/or 

impairment testing results.  

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 80 

 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

24.  Financial instruments: 

Fair values: 

The  Corporation  has  determined  that  the  carrying  amount  of  cash  and  cash  equivalents,  trade  and  other  receivables, 

accounts payable and accrued liabilities and current other payables excluding the contingent consideration is a reasonable 

approximation of their fair value due to the short-term maturity of those instruments. As such information on their fair values 

is not presented below. The fair value of the revolving facility bearing interest at variable rates approximate its carrying 

value, as it bear interest at prime or banker’s acceptance rate plus a credit spread which approximate current rates that 

could be obtained for debts with similar terms and credit risk. 

The carrying and fair value of financial assets and liabilities, including their level in the fair value hierarchy, consist of the 

following: 

As at March 31, 2017 

Carrying value 

Fair value 

Level 1 

Level 2 

Level 3 

Financial assets measured at amortized cost 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Trade and other receivables 

$ 

5,862 
25,998 

Financial assets measured at fair value 
Investments 

$ 

17,351 

$ 

17,351  $ 

–    $ 

–    $  17,351 

Financial liabilities measured at amortized 

cost 

Revolving facility 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 
CRTC tangible benefits and post-employment 

$ 

benefit obligations  

Balance payable on business acquisitions 

41,040 
28,959 

3,737 
5,845 

3,737 
5,845 

–   
–   

–   
–   

3,737 
5,845 

Financial liabilities measured at fair value 
Contingent consideration 

$ 

12,956 

$ 

12,956  $ 

–    $ 

–    $  12,956 

As at March 31, 2016 

Carrying value 

Fair value 

Level 1 

Level 2 

Level 3 

Financial assets measured at amortized cost 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Trade and other receivables 

$ 

3,201 
27,916 

Financial assets measured at fair value 
Investments 

$ 

16,943 

$ 

16,943  $ 

–    $ 

–    $  16,943 

Financial liabilities measured at amortized 

cost 

Revolving facility 
Account payable and accrued liabilities 
CRTC tangible benefits and post-employment 

$ 

benefit obligations  

Balance payable on business acquisitions 

35,035 
25,098 

4,354 
300 

4,354 
300 

–   
–   

–   
–   

4,354 
300 

Financial liabilities measured at fair value 
Contingent consideration 

$ 

12,196 

$ 

12,196  $ 

–    $ 

–    $  12,196 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 81 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

Fair value measurement (Level 3): 

Investments 

Derivative 
instrument 

Contingent 
consideration 

7,933  $ 
– 
1,665 
7,345 
– 
16,943  $ 

110  $ 
– 
– 
(107) 
(3) 
–  $ 

12,409 
6,552 
– 
(1,914) 
(4,851) 
12,196 

Investments 

Derivative 
instrument 

Contingent 
consideration 

16,943  $ 
– 
– 
408 
– 
17,351  $ 

–  $ 
– 
– 
– 
– 
–  $ 

12,196 
1,789 
651 
669 
(2,349) 
12,956 

  $ 

  $ 

  $ 

  $ 

Year ended March 31, 2016 
Opening amount as at March 31, 2015 
Additions through business acquisitions 
Additions during the year 
Change in fair value 
Payments 
Closing amount as at March 31, 2016 

Year ended March 31, 2017 
Opening amount as at March 31, 2016 
Additions through business acquisitions 
Additions during the year 
Change in fair value 
Payments 
Closing amount as at March 31, 2017 

Investments 

Equity instrument in a private entity 

The fair value of the equity instrument in a private entity, AppDirect, was estimated using the market approach. 

For the years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, the fair value has been measured by using the valuation from the most 

recent financing round, minus a liquidity discount of 25%. The liquidity discount was used to reflect the marketability of the 

asset. In measuring fair value, management used the best information available in the circumstances and also an approach 

that it believes market participants would use.  

For the years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, the equity instrument in a private entity is classified as a financial asset at 

fair value through profit and loss. A change of 5.0% in the liquidity discount would have increased / decreased the fair 

value  of  the  investment  by  approximately  $1,068  and  $1,043  during  the  years  ended  March  31,  2017  and  2016, 

respectively. 

Convertible note 

The convertible note has two components of value – a conventional note and an option on the equity of Multi Channels 

Asia PTE Ltd. (“MCA”) through conversion. Based on its terms, the conversion option and the convertible note, together 

the hybrid contract, have been assessed as a whole for classification. The hybrid contract has been recognized at fair 

value on initial recognition and was classified as at fair value through profit or loss. For the year ended March 31, 2017, 

the convertible note was evaluated at its recoverable amount as the Corporation requested the repayment of the debenture 

in its entirely and is expecting a repayment of the total amount of US$1,000. For the year ended March 31, 2016, the fair 

value of the option component has been measured using the Black-Scholes model based on the price share resulting from 

the most recent financing round. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 82 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

The fair value of the option component was estimated by using the Black-Scholes model with the following assumptions: 

Volatility 
Risk-free interest rate 
Period 
Dividend yield 

2016 

40.0%   
1.69%   
5 years   
–    

The note fair value was calculated as the present value of the future cash flows based on risk-adjusted discount rate. 

A  change  of  5.0%  in  the  common  share  price  would  have  increased  /  decreased  the  fair  value  of  the  investment  by 

approximately $10 during the year ended March 31, 2016. 

Contingent consideration 

The contingent consideration related to business combinations is payable based on the achievement of targets for growth 

in revenues for a period from the date of the acquisition and upon renewal of client contracts. The fair value measurement 

of the contingent consideration is determined using unobservable (Level 3) inputs. These inputs include (i) the estimated 
amount and timing of projected cash flows; and (ii) the risk-adjusted discount rate used to present value the cash flows 

which is based on the risk associated with the revenue targets being met. If projected cash flows were 10 % higher, the 

fair value would have increase by $1,950 and if projected cash flows were 10 % lower, the fair value would have decrease 

by $2,028. Discount rates ranging from 5% to 15% have been applied and consider the time value of money. A change in 

the discount rate by 100 basis points would have increased / decreased the fair value by $21. The contingent consideration 

is classified as a financial liability and is included in other payables (note 18). The change in fair value is recognized in net 
finance expenses (note 6). 

Credit risk: 

Credit  risk  is  the  risk  of  an  unexpected  financial  loss  to  the  Corporation  if  a  customer  or  counterparty  to  a  financial 

instrument fails to meet contractual obligations, and it arises primarily from the Corporation's trade and other receivables.  

The Corporation’s credit risk is principally attributable to its trade receivables. The amounts presented in the consolidated 

statements of financial position are net of an allowance for doubtful accounts, estimated by the Corporation’s management 

and  based,  in  part,  on  the  age  of  the  specific  receivable  balance  and  the  current and expected  collection  trends.  The 

Corporation's exposure to credit risk is mainly influenced by the characteristics of each customer. The demographics of 

the Corporation's customer base, including the default risk of the industry and country in which the customer operates, 

have less of an influence on the credit risk. Generally, the Corporation does not require collateral or other security from 

customers  for  trade  accounts  receivable;  however,  credit  is  extended  following  an  evaluation  of  creditworthiness.  In 

addition,  the  Corporation  performs  ongoing  credit  reviews  of  its  customers  and  establishes  an  allowance  for  doubtful 

accounts when the likelihood of collecting the account has significantly diminished. The Corporation believes that the credit 

risk of trade accounts receivable is limited.  

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 83 

 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

The aging of trade receivable balances and the allowance for doubtful accounts as at March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2016 

were as follows: 

Current 
Past due 0-30 days 
Past due 31-60 days 
Past due 61-90 days 
Past due more than 90 days 

Total trade receivables 
Less : allowance for doubtful account 

2017 

8,929 
5,825 
2,374 
2,207 
5,340 

24,675 
474 

24,201 

$ 

$ 

The movement in allowance for doubtful accounts in respect of trade receivables was as follows: 

Balance, beginning of year 
Bad debt expense 
Write-off against reserve 

Balance, end of year 

2017 

349 
267 
(142) 

474 

$ 

$ 

2016 

11,089 
5,537 
1,253 
1,261 
6,811 

25,951 
349 

25,602 

2016 

452 
228 
(331) 

349 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

The Corporation also has credit risk relating to cash and cash equivalents, other receivables, investment in a convertible 

note  and  derivative  financial  instruments.  The  Corporation  manages  its  risk  by  transacting  only  with  sound  financial 

institutions. 

The carrying amounts of financial assets in the consolidated statements of financial position represent the Corporation's 

maximum credit exposure.  

Liquidity risk: 

Liquidity risk is the risk that the  Corporation  will not  be able to meet its financial  obligations  as they become  due.  The 

Corporation also manages liquidity risk by continuously monitoring actual and budgeted cash flows under both normal and 

stressed conditions.  Also, the Board of Directors reviews and approves the Corporation’s operating and capital budgets, 

as well as any material transactions out of the ordinary course of business, including proposals on mergers, acquisitions 

or other major investments or divestitures. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 84 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

The  following  are  the  contractual  maturities  of  financial  liabilities  including  estimated  interest  payments  as  at 

March 31, 2017: 

Revolving facility 
Accounts payables and  
accrued liabilities 

Other payables 

Market risk: 

Total carrying 
amount 

Contractual 
cash flows 

Less than 1 
year 

1 to 5 years 

More than 5 
years 

   $ 

41,040 

$ 

41,040 

$ 

–   

$ 

41,040 

$ 

–     

   $ 

29,783 
22,538 

29,783 
28,611 

$ 

29,783 
9,765 

$ 

–   
14,140 

–     
4,706   

Market risk is the risk that the changes in market prices, such as foreign exchange rates, interest rates and equity prices, 

will affect  the Corporation's earnings or the  value  of its  holdings of  financial instruments.   The  objective of market risk 

management is to manage and control market risk exposure within acceptable parameters, while optimizing the return on 

risk.  

Currency risk: 

The Corporation is exposed to currency risk on sales and expenses that are denominated in currencies other than the 

functional currency of the Corporation’s subsidiaries, primarily the US dollar (“USD”), the Australian dollar (“AUD”) and the 

euro  (“EURO”).  Also,  additional  earnings  variability  arises  from  the  translation  of  monetary  assets  and  liabilities 

denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of the Corporation’s subsidiaries at the rate of exchange at 

each balance sheet date, the impact of which is reported as a foreign exchange gain or loss in the consolidated statements 

of comprehensive income. 

The Corporation's objective in managing its foreign currency risk is to minimize its net exposure to foreign currency cash 

flows, by transacting with third parties in the above currencies to the maximum extent possible and practical, given that 

this will act as natural economic hedges for each of these currencies. 

The Corporation's exposure to currency risk on its consolidated financial statements was as follows: 

USD 

March 31, 2017 
AUD 

EURO 

USD 

March 31, 2016 
AUD 

EURO 

Cash and cash equivalents 
Accounts receivable 
Income tax receivable (payable) 
Investments 
Investments in joint venture 
Credit facility 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities  
Contingent consideration 
Net balance exposure 
Equivalent in Canadian dollars 

922   
6,016   
(66)  
13,046   
–   
–   
(3,870)  
(657)  
15,391   
20,740   

444   
570   
(96)  
–   
–   
–   
(372)  
(4,002)  
(3,456)  
(3,515)  

502 
3,990 

(64)     
– 
– 
(1,700)     
(777)     
(2,843)     
(782) 
(1,114) 

313   
8,368   
201   
13,046   
–   
(4,450)  
(3,929)   
(438)   
13,111   
17,027   

–   
–   
–   
–   
–   
–   
(34)  
(4,002)  
(4,036)  
(4,019)  

1,006 
1,960 
(50) 
– 
85 
– 
(1,349) 
(2,765) 
(1,113) 
(1,644) 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 85 

 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
   
   
   
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 
The following exchange rates are those applicable to the following periods and dates: 

USD per CAD 
AUD per CAD 
EURO per CAD 

2017 

2016 

Average 

Reporting 

Average 

Reporting 

1.3371 
1.0197 
1.4286 

1.3300 
1.0170 
1.4251 

1.3210 
0.9922 
1.4721 

1.2987 
0.9957 
1.4775 

Based on the Corporation’s foreign currency exposures noted above, varying the above foreign exchange rates to reflect 

a 5% strengthening of the US dollar, AUD dollar and EURO would have increased the net income and reduced the deficit 

as follows, assuming that all other variables remained constant: 

USD 

March 31, 2017 
AUD 

EURO 

USD 

AUD 

EURO 

March 31, 2016 

Increase in net income 

754 

(128) 

(40) 

622 

(147) 

(60) 

An assumed 5% weakening of the foreign currency would have had an equal but opposite effect on the basis that all other 

variables remained constant. 

Interest rate risk: 

Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate due to changes in 

market interest rates. The Corporation's interest rate risk is primarily related to the Corporation's operating revolving facility 

bearing interest at variable rate.  

The Corporation holds the majority of its cash and cash equivalents balance in accounts bearing interest at rates less than 

1.25%.  The  Corporation  is,  therefore,  not  materially  exposed  to  future  cash  flow  fluctuations  coming  from  changes  in 

market interest rates for its cash and cash equivalents. Cash equivalents consist of term deposits with original maturities 

of less than three months and are, therefore, also exposed to interest rate risk on fair value. However, fair value risk is not 

significant, considering the relatively short term to maturity of these instruments.   

The revolving facility is a variable interest rate instrument that is due in more than one year. This instrument is exposed to 

changes in future interest rates that could result in future cash flow fluctuations. 

As at the reporting date, the interest  rate profile  of  the Corporation's interest-bearing financial  liabilities consists  of  the 

revolving facility, which had a carrying amount of $41,040 and bears interest at a variable rate. 

A change of 100 basis points in the interest rate on variable rate instruments would have increased / decreased the deficit 

and decreased the net income by approximately $117 (2016 – $149) during the year. This analysis assumes that all other 

variables, in particular foreign currency rates, remained constant.  

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 86 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

25.  Capital management: 

The Corporation’s objectives when managing capital are as follows: 

Pursue its growth strategy through acquisitions and organic growth by maintaining financial flexibility; and 

Provide the Corporation’s shareholders with an appropriate return on their investment. 

For capital management, the Corporation has defined its capital as the combination of net debt and total equity.  

Total managed capital is as follows: 

Contingent consideration, including current portion 
Balance on business acquisition payable 
Revolving facility 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Net debt including contingent consideration 
Total equity 

2017 

12,956 
5,845 
41,040 
(5,862) 
53,979 
94,948 

2016 

12,196 
300 
35,035 
(3,201) 
44,330 
90,394 

$ 

148,927 

$ 

134,724 

The Corporation’s financing strategy is to maintain a flexible structure, to respond adequately to the changes in economic 

conditions and to allow growth through business acquisitions. The Corporation monitors its capital structure using the net 

debt to adjusted EBITDA ratio. 

In order to maintain or adjust the capital structure, the Corporation may adjust the amount of dividends paid to shareholders 

of the Corporation, issue or repay debt, issue shares or undertake any other activities as deemed appropriate under the 

specific circumstances, on a quarterly basis. 

26.  Related parties: 

The key management personnel of the Corporation are the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and other key 

employees of the Corporation.  

Key management personnel compensation and director’s fees are as follows: 

Short-term employee benefits 
Share-based compensation 
Restricted and performance share unit 
Deferred share unit 

2017 

3,361 
810 
407 
896 

5,474 

$ 

$ 

2016 

2,927 
976 
178 
371 

4,452 

$ 

$ 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 87 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

27.  Basis of preparation: 

a)  Statement of compliance: 

The consolidated financial statements of the Corporation have been prepared in accordance with IFRS as issued by 

the International Accounting Standards Board (''IASB'').  

The consolidated financial statements were authorized for issue by the Board of Directors on June 7, 2017. 

b)  Basis of measurement:  

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis, except for the following:  

  Contingent consideration payable which are measured at fair value at each reporting period in accordance with 

IFRS 3; 

  Investments measured at fair value at year-end in accordance with IFRS 9; 

  Derivatives measured at fair value at year-end in accordance with IFRS 9;  

  Liabilities  related  to  deferred  share  unit  plan  and  restricted  share  unit  measured  at  fair  value  at  year-end  in 

accordance with IFRS 2; and  

  Equity stock options which are measured at fair value at date of grant pursuant to IFRS 2. 

c)  Foreign currency translation 

(i)  Functional and presentation currency: 

Items  included  in  the  financial  statements  of  each  of  the  subsidiaries  are  measured  using  the  currency  of  the 

primary  economic  environment  in  which  the  subsidiary  operates  (‘the  functional  currency’).  The  consolidated 

financial  statements  are  presented  in  Canadian  dollars,  which  is  the  Corporation’s  functional  and  presentation 

currency. All financial information presented in Canadian dollars has been rounded to the nearest thousand. 

(ii)  Transactions and balances: 

Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currency using the exchange rates at the dates of 

the transactions. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from 

the translation of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at year end exchange rates are 

recognized in profit or loss. Translation differences on assets and liabilities carried at fair value are reported as 

part of the fair value gain or loss. Non-monetary items that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign 

currency are translated using the exchange rate at the date of the transaction. Foreign currency gains and losses 

are reported on a net basis. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 88 

 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

(iii) Subsidiaries: 

The  results  and  financial  position  of  foreign  operations  (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 balance sheet presented  are translated  at  the closing  rate  at  the date  of  that 

balance sheet; 

  income  and  expenses  for  each  statement  of  profit  or  loss  and  statement  of  comprehensive  income  are 

translated at average exchange rates (unless this is not a reasonable approximation of the cumulative effect 

of the rates prevailing on the transaction dates, in which case income and expenses are translated at the dates 

of the transactions); and 

  all resulting exchange differences are recognized in other comprehensive income. 

Goodwill and  fair value  adjustments arising on  the  acquisition  of a foreign  operation are treated  as  assets and 

liabilities of the foreign operation and are translated at the closing rate. 

28.  Significant accounting policies: 

The accounting policies set out below have been applied consistently to all years presented in these consolidated financial 

statements and have been applied consistently by the Corporation’s subsidiaries.  

(a)  Basis of consolidation: 

Business combinations: 

The Corporation measures goodwill as the excess of the fair value of the consideration transferred which includes the 

fair value of contingent consideration, over the net recognized amount (generally fair value) of the identifiable assets 

acquired and  liabilities assumed,  all measured as of  the acquisition date. When  the excess is  negative,  a bargain 

purchase gain is recognized immediately in profit or loss.  

Transaction costs, other than those associated with the issue of debt or equity securities, that the Corporation incurs 

in connection with a business combination are expensed as incurred.  

Subsidiaries: 

Subsidiaries are entities controlled by the Corporation. The Corporation controls an entity when it is exposed to, or 

has rights to, variable returns from its involvement with the entity and has the ability to affect those returns through its 

power over the entity. The financial statements of subsidiaries are included in the consolidated financial statements 

from the date that control commences until the date that control ceases.  

These consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, 

Stingray Music USA Inc., Stingray Music Rights Management LLC, 2144286 Ontario Inc., Pay Audio Services Limited 

Partnership, Stingray Business Inc., Music Choice Europe Limited, Stingray Digital International Ltd., Music Choice 

India Private Ltd., Music Choice Europe Deutschland GmbH, Xtra Music Ltd., Stingray Europe B.V., Alexander Medien 

Gruppe  B.V.,  Les  Réseaux  Urbains  Viva  Inc,  Brava  HDTV  B.V.,  Brava  NL  B.V.,  DJazz  B.V.,  Transmedia 

Communications SA and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Digital Music Distribution Pty Ltd., 9076-3392 Québec Inc. 

(doing business as Nümédia), Festival 4K B.V., Classica GMBH and its wholly-owned subsidiary Classica Asia GMBH 

and Think inside the box LLC (Nature Vision TV). 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 89 

 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

Interest in joint venture:  

A joint venture is an arrangement whereby the Corporation and other parties that have joint control of the arrangement 

have rights to the net assets of the arrangement.   

Transactions eliminated on consolidation:  

Intra-group balances and transactions, and any unrealized income and expenses arising from intra-group transactions, 

are eliminated in preparing the consolidated financial statements. 

(b)  Financial instruments:  

(i)  Financial assets and financial liabilities: 

The Corporation initially recognizes financial assets on the trade date at which the Corporation becomes a party 

to the contractual provisions of the instrument. 

On initial recognition, the Corporation classifies its financial assets as subsequently measured at either amortized 

cost or fair value, depending on its business model for managing the financial assets and the contractual cash 

flow characteristics of the financial assets. If the financial asset is not subsequently accounted for at fair value 

through profit or loss, then the initial measurement includes transaction costs that are directly attributable to the 

asset’s acquisition or origination. 

Financial assets measured at amortized cost 

A financial asset is measured at amortized cost if both of the following conditions are met and is not designated 

as at fair value through profit and loss: 

  The asset is held within a business model whose objective is to hold the asset in order to collect contractual 

cash flows. 

  The contractual terms of the financial asset give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments 

of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding. 

The Corporation currently classifies its cash and cash equivalents and trade and other receivables as financial 

assets measured at amortized cost. 

Financial assets measured at fair value 

All  equity  investments  and  other  financial  assets  that  do  not  meet  the  conditions  to  be  classified  as  financial 

assets measured at amortized cost are measured at fair value through profit and loss.  

Changes therein, including any interest or dividend income, are recognized in profit or loss.  

The Corporation’s investments are classified as financial assets measured at fair value through profit and loss.  

The  Corporation  derecognizes  a  financial  asset  when  the  contractual  rights  to  the  cash  flows  from  the  asset 

expire, or it transfers the rights to receive the contractual cash flows in a transaction in which substantially all of 

the  risks  and  rewards  of  ownership  of  the  financial  asset  are  transferred,  or  it  neither  transfers  not  retains 

substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership and does not retain control over the transferred asset. Any 

interest in such derecognized financial assets that is created or retained by the Corporation is recognized as a 

separate asset or liability. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 90 

 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

Financial liabilities 

The Corporation initially recognizes debt securities issued and subordinated liabilities on the date that they are 

originated. All other financial liabilities are recognized initially on the trade date at which the Corporation becomes 

a party to the contractual provisions of the instruments. 

Financial liabilities are initially measured at fair value. If the financial liabilities are not subsequently accounted 

for at fair value through profit or loss, then the initial measurement includes directly attributable transaction costs.  

The Corporation classifies all financial liabilities at amortized cost using the effective interest method, except for 

contingent consideration recorded at fair value through profit and loss and financial liabilities designated at fair 

value  through  profit  or  loss  when  doing  so  results  in  more  relevant  information.  Such  liabilities,  including 

derivatives that are liabilities, shall be subsequently measured at fair value.  

The Corporation derecognizes a financial liability when its contractual obligations are discharged or cancelled or 

expire. 

Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount presented in the consolidated statements of financial 

position when, and only when, the Corporation has a legal right to offset the amounts and intends either to settle 

on a net basis or to realize the asset and settle the liability simultaneously. 

(ii) 

Impairment of financial assets: 

At  the  end  of  each  reporting  year,  the  Corporation  assesses  whether  there  is  any  objective  evidence  that  a 

financial asset or group of financial assets is impaired. Objective evidence that financial assets are impaired can 

include default or delinquency by a debtor, restructuring of an amount due to the Corporation on terms that the 

Corporation  would  not  consider  otherwise,  indications  that  a  debtor  or  issuer  will  enter  bankruptcy,  or  the 

disappearance of an active market for a security. 

With respect to certain categories of financial assets, such as trade and other receivables, assets that are not 

individually determined to be impaired are measured for impairment on an aggregate basis. Objective evidence 

of impairment in the trade and other receivables portfolio may include the Corporation's past experience with debt 

recovery,  an  increased  number  of  days  exceeding  payment  terms  in  the  portfolio,  as  well  as  a  change  - 

internationally  or  nationally  -  in  economic  conditions  correlating  with  default  payments  in  trade  and  other 

receivables. 

If there is objective evidence that an impairment loss on financial assets measured at amortized cost has been 

incurred,  the  amount  of  the  loss  is  measured as  the  difference  between  the  asset's carrying  amount  and  the 

present  value  of  estimated  future  cash  flows  (excluding  future  credit  losses  that  have  not  been  incurred) 

discounted at the financial asset's original effective interest rate (i.e. the effective interest rate computed at initial 

recognition). The amount of the loss is recognized in profit or loss.  

If, in a subsequent year, the amount of the impairment loss decreases and the decrease can be related objectively 

to an event occurring after the impairment was recognized (such as an improvement in the debtor's credit rating), 

the  previously  recognized  impairment  loss  is  reversed.  The  reversal  is  recognized  to  the  extent  of  the 

improvement  without  exceeding  what  the  amortized  cost  would  have  been  had  the  impairment  not  been 

recognized at the date the impairment is reversed. The amount of the reversal is recognized in profit or loss. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 91 

 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

(iii)  Share capital: 

Common shares, subordinate voting shares, variable voting shares and multiple voting shares are classified as 

equity. Incremental costs that are directly attributable to their issuance are recognized in reduction of equity, net 

of tax effects. 

(iv)  Other equity instruments: 

Warrants  issued  outside  of  share-based  payment  transactions  that  do  not  meet  the  definition  of  a  derivative 

financial instrument are recognized initially at fair value in equity. Upon simultaneous issuance of multiple equity 

instruments,  consideration  received,  net  of  issue  costs, is  allocated  based  on  their  relative  fair  values.  Equity 

instruments are not subsequently remeasured. 

(v)  Derivatives and other non-trading derivatives: 

From  time  to  time,  the  Corporation  holds  derivative  financial  instruments to  reduce  its  interest  rate  risks.  The 

Corporation  does  not  hold  or  use  derivative  financial  instruments  for  speculation  purposes.  Derivatives  are 

recognized initially at fair value and any transaction costs are recognized in profit or loss as incurred. Subsequent 

to  initial recognition,  derivatives  are measured  at fair value,  and  all changes in their fair value  are  recognized 

immediately in profit or loss. 

(c)  Revenue recognition: 

The Corporation derives revenue primarily from rendering of services, sales of on-demand products, media solutions 

projects and other revenues. Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable. The 

Corporation recognizes revenues when the services are rendered and collectability is reasonably assured, persuasive 

evidence of an arrangement exists and the sales price is fixed or determinable. 

Rendering of services 

Rendering of services primarily relates to continuous music and video distribution in a form of subscription fees on a 

monthly, quarterly or annual basis. The Corporation recognizes revenues from rendering of services when the services 

are rendered. The Corporation records deferred revenues when customers pay their subscription fees in advance. 

On-demand products 

On-demand products relate primarily to music and concert services online or through TV subscriptions. Revenues are 

recognized in the year in which the services are rendered.  

Media solutions projects 

Revenue  for  media  solutions  projects  relates  to  long  term  media  projects.  Revenues  are  recognized  using  the 

percentage of completion method, which is calculated on the ratio of contract costs incurred to anticipated costs. The 

effect of revisions of estimated revenues and costs is recorded when the amounts are known and can be reasonably 

estimated. Where  contract  costs  exceed  total  contract  revenues,  the  expected  loss  is  recognized  as  an  expense 

immediately via a provision for losses to completion, irrespective of the stage of completion. 

Other revenues 

Other revenues relate primarily to sales of equipment, support and installation services. Revenues are recognized in 

the period in which the sales of goods occur and services are rendered.  

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 92 

 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

(d)  Research and development: 

Expenditure on research activities, undertaken with the prospect of gaining new scientific or technical knowledge and 

understanding, is recognized in profit or loss as incurred. Development costs are charged to profit or loss, unless they 

meet  specific  criteria  related  to  technical,  market  and  financial  feasibility  in  order  to  be  capitalized.  Deferred 

development costs, net of government assistance, are amortized starting from the date the products and services are 

commercialized. 

(e)  Government grants: 

Investment tax credits are accounted for as a reduction of the research and development costs during the year in 

which  the  costs  are  incurred,  provided  that  there  is  reasonable  assurance  that  the  Corporation  has  met  the 

requirements of the approved grant program and there is reasonable assurance that the grant will be received. 

The investment tax credits must be reviewed and approved by the tax authorities and it is possible that the amounts 

granted will differ from the amounts recorded. 

(f)  Lease assets and payments:  

Operating  leases  are  not  recognized  in  the  Corporation’s  consolidated  statements  of  financial  position.  Payments 

made under operating leases are recognized in profit or loss on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. Lease 

incentives received are recognized as an integral part of the total lease expense, over the term of the lease. Contingent 

lease payments are accounted for in the year in which they are incurred. 

(g)  Finance income and finance costs: 

Finance  income  comprises  interest  income  on  funds  invested,  change  in  fair  value  of  derivatives  and  contingent 

consideration. Interest income is recognized as it accrues in profit or loss, using the effective interest method. 

Finance costs comprise interest expense on borrowings, unwinding of the discount on provisions, change in fair value 

of derivatives and contingent consideration, amortization of deferred financing costs, foreign exchange (gain) loss and 

impairment losses recognized on financial assets.  

The  Corporation  recognizes  finance  income  and  finance  costs  as  a  component  of  operating  activities  in  the 

consolidated statements of cash flows. 

(h)  Income taxes: 

Income tax expense comprises current and deferred taxes. Current and deferred taxes are recognized in profit or loss 

except  to  the  extent  that  they  relate  to  a  business  combination,  or  items  recognized  directly  in  equity  or  in  other 

comprehensive income. 

Current  tax  is  the  expected  tax  payable  or  receivable  on  the  taxable  income  or  loss  for  the  year,  using  tax  rates 

enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date, and any adjustment to tax payable in respect of previous years. 

Deferred tax is recognized in respect of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities 

for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for taxation purposes.  

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 93 

 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

Deferred tax is not recognized for the following temporary differences:  

 

 

 

temporary  differences  on  the  initial  recognition  of  assets  or  liabilities  in  a  transaction  that  is  not  a  business 

combination and that affects neither accounting nor taxable profit or loss; 

temporary differences relating to investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint arrangements to the extent that 

the Corporation is able to control the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference and it is probable that they 

will not reverse in the foreseeable future; and  

taxable temporary differences arising on the initial recognition of goodwill.  

A deferred tax asset is recognized for unused tax losses, unused tax credits and deductible temporary differences to 

the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which they can be used. Deferred tax 

assets are measured at the end of each reporting year and their carrying amount is reduced to the extent that it is no 

longer probable that a taxable profit will be realized. 

Deferred tax is measured at the tax rates that are expected to be applied to temporary differences when they reverse, 

based on the laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting date.  

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset if there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax liabilities and 

assets, and they relate to income taxes levied by the same tax authority on the same taxable entity, or on different 

tax entities, but they intend to settle current tax liabilities and assets on a net basis or their tax assets and liabilities 

will be realized simultaneously.  

(i)  Earnings per share: 

Basic earnings per share are computed by dividing net earnings by the weighted average number of common shares, 

subordinate  voting  shares,  variable  subordinated  voting  shares  and  multiple  voting  shares  outstanding  during  the 

year. Diluted earnings per share are computed using the weighted average number of common shares, subordinate 

voting shares, variable subordinated voting shares and multiple voting shares outstanding during the year adjusted to 

include the dilutive impact of stock options, restricted share units and deferred share units. The number of additional 

shares is calculated by assuming that all instruments with a dilutive effect are exercised and that the proceeds from 

such exercises, as well as the amount of unrecognized share-based compensation which is considered to be assumed 

proceeds, are used to repurchase subordinate voting shares, variable subordinated voting shares and multiple voting 

shares  at  the  average  share  price  for  the  year.  For  restricted  share  units,  only  the  unrecognized  share-based 

compensation is considered assumed proceeds since there is no exercise price paid by the holder. 

(j)  Cash and cash equivalents: 

Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand and balances with banks. 

(k)  Inventories: 

Inventories are measured at the lower of cost and net realizable value. The cost of inventories is based on the first-

in, first-out cost method.  

Net  realizable  value  is  the  estimated  selling  price  in  the  ordinary  course  of  business,  less  the  estimated  selling 

expenses. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 94 

 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

(l)  Property and equipment: 

Recognition and measurement 

Items of property and equipment are recognized at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment 

losses. Cost includes expenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition of the asset and the costs of dismantling 

and removing the item and restoring the site on which it is located, if any. 

When parts of an item of property and equipment have different useful lives, they are accounted for as separate items 

(major components).  

Gains and losses on disposal of an item of property and equipment are determined by comparing the proceeds from 

disposal with the carrying amount, and are recognized in net profit (loss). 

Subsequent costs 

The cost of replacing a part of an item of property and equipment is recognized in the carrying amount of the item if it 

is probable that the future economic benefits embodied within the part will flow to the Corporation, and its cost can be 

measured reliably. The carrying amount of the replaced part is derecognized. The costs of the day-to-day servicing 

of property and equipment are recognized in profit (loss) as incurred. 

Depreciation 

Depreciation is calculated over the cost of the asset less its residual value and is recognized in profit or loss on a 

straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of each part of an item of property and equipment, since this most 

closely reflects the expected pattern of consumption of the future economic benefits embodied in the asset. Leased 

assets are depreciated over the shorter of the lease term and their useful lives, unless it is reasonably certain that the 

Corporation will obtain ownership by the end of the lease term. 

The estimated useful lives for the current and comparative years are as follows: 

Property and equipment 

Furniture, fixtures and equipment 
Computer hardware 
Leasehold improvements 

Period 

3 to 5 years 
3 years 
Lease term or 3 years 

Estimates  for  depreciation methods, useful lives and residual values are  reviewed at each reporting  year-end  and 

adjusted if appropriate. 

(m)  Intangible assets: 

Intangible  assets  that  are  acquired  by  the  Corporation  and  have  finite  useful  lives  are  measured  at  cost  less 

accumulated amortization and any accumulated impairment losses. 

The fair value of non-compete agreements acquired in a business combination are based on the discounted estimated 

revenues losses that have been avoided as a result of the non-compete being signed. The fair value of client list and 

relationships  acquired  in  a  business  combination  is  determined  using  the  multi-period  excess  earnings  method, 

whereby the subject asset is valued after deducting a fair return on all other assets that are part of creating the related 

cash flows. The fair value of music catalogs acquired in a business combination is determined using the estimated 

costs for creating such music catalogs. The fair value of trademarks acquired in a business combination is based on 

the discounted estimated future royalty payments that have been avoided. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 95 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

Amortization 

Amortization is recognized in profit or loss on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the definite life 

intangible assets.  

The estimated useful lives for the current and comparative years are as follows: 

Intangible 

Music catalog 
Client list and relationships 
Trademarks 
Licenses, website applications and computer software 
Non-compete agreements 

Period 

5 to15 years 
3 to 15 years 
2 to 20 years 
1 to 11 years 
2 to 11 years 

Estimates  for  depreciation methods, useful lives and residual values are  reviewed at each reporting  year-end  and 

adjusted if appropriate. 

(n)  Goodwill: 

Goodwill arising on the acquisition of businesses is measured at cost less accumulated impairment losses. 

Goodwill is not amortized but is subject to an impairment evaluation. 

(o)  Impairment of non-financial assets: 

The Corporation reviews the carrying amount of its non-financial assets, which include intangible assets with a finite 

useful life and property and equipment on each reporting date in order to determine if specific events or changes in 

circumstances indicate that their carrying amounts may not be recoverable. The recoverable amount of goodwill is 

tested for impairment each year at the same date, or more frequently if indications of impairment exist. 

For impairment testing purposes, assets that cannot be tested individually are grouped in CGUs. Goodwill is allocated 

to the CGU or CGU group that is expected to benefit from the synergies resulting from the business combination. 

Each unit or group of units to which goodwill is allocated shall not be larger than an operating segment and represents 

the lowest level at which goodwill is monitored for internal management purposes.  

An impairment loss is recognized if the carrying amount of an asset or a CGU exceeds its recoverable amount. The 

recoverable amount is the higher of an asset's fair value less costs to sell and its value in use. Impairment losses are 

recognized in profit or loss. Impairment losses are first allocated to reduce the carrying amount of goodwill allocated 

to the CGU, and then to reduce the carrying amount of the other assets of the CGU on a pro rata basis. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 96 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

(p)  Provisions: 

A provision is recognized if, as a result of a past event, the Corporation has a present legal or constructive obligation 

that can be estimated reliably, and it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the 

obligation.  Provisions are  determined  by  discounting  the  expected  future  cash  flows  at  a  pre-tax  rate  that  reflects 

current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the liability. The unwinding of the 

discount is recognized as finance cost. 

Contingent liability 

A contingent liability is a possible obligation that arises from past events and of which the existence will be confirmed 

only  by  the  occurrence  or  non-occurrence  of  one  or  more  uncertain  future  events  not  within  the  control  of  the 

Corporation; or a present obligation that arises from past events (and therefore exists), but is not recognized because 

it is not probable that a transfer or use of assets, provision of services or any other transfer of economic benefits will 

be required to settle the obligation, or the amount of the obligation cannot be estimated reliably.  

(q)  Employee benefits: 

(i)  Short-term employee benefits: 

Short-term employee benefits are expensed as the related service is provided.  

A liability is recognized for the amount expected to be paid if the Corporation has a present legal or constructive 

obligation to pay this amount as a result of past service provided by the employee, and the obligation can be 

estimated reliably. 

 (ii)  Defined contribution plan: 

The Corporation pays contributions under a defined contribution plan for employees of one of its subsidiaries.  

Obligations for contributions to defined contribution plans are expensed as the related service is provided.  

The obligation under this plan is expensed when the services are rendered by the employees. 

(iii)  Defined benefit plans: 

The  Corporation’s  net  obligation  in  respect  of  defined  benefit  plans is  calculated  by  estimating  the amount  of 

future benefit that employees have earned in the current and prior years, discounting that amount and deducting 

the fair value of any plan assets.  

The calculation of defined benefit obligations is performed annually by a qualified actuary using the projected unit 

credit method. When the calculation results in a potential asset for the Corporation, the recognized asset is limited 

to the present value of economic benefits available in the form of any future refunds from the plan or reductions 

in future contributions to the plan. To calculate the present value of economic benefits, consideration is given to 

any applicable minimum funding requirements. 

Remeasurement of the net defined benefit liability, which comprises actuarial gains and losses, the return on plan 

assets  (excluding  interest)  and  the  effect  of  the  asset  ceiling  (if  any,  excluding  interest),  are  recognized 

immediately in other comprehensive income. The Corporation determines the net interest expense (income) on 

the net defined benefit obligation at the beginning of the year to the net defined benefit liability (asset), taking into 

account any changes in the net defined benefit liability (asset) during the year as a result of contributions and 

benefits payments. Net interest expense and other expenses related to defined benefit plans are recognized in 

profit or loss.  

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 97 

 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

When the benefits of a plan are changed or when a plan is curtailed, the resulting change in benefit that relates 

to past services or the gain or loss on curtailment is recognized immediately in profit or loss. The Corporation 

recognizes gains and losses on the settlement of a defined benefit plan when the settlement occurs. 

(iv)  Stock option plan: 

The fair value at the grant-date of equity settled share-based payment awards granted to management and key 

employees of the Corporation is recognized as an employee benefit expense, with a corresponding increase in 

equity, over the vesting period of the awards. The amount expensed is adjusted to reflect the number of awards 

for which it is expected that the service conditions will be met, so that the amount ultimately expensed will depend 

on the number of awards that meet the service conditions at the vesting date. 

(v)  Restricted and performance share units and deferred share units plans: 

Restricted share units (“RSU”), performance unit plan (“PSU”) and deferred share units (“DSU”) expected to be 

settled  in cash are accounted  for as  cash  settled  awards, with  the  recognized  compensation  cost  included  in 

accounts payable and accrued liabilities. Compensation cost is initially measured at fair value at the grant date 

and is recognized in net income over the vesting year. The liability is remeasured based on the fair value price of 

the  Corporation’s  common  shares,  at  each  reporting  date.  Remeasurements  during  the  vesting  year  are 

recognized  immediately  to  net  income  to  the  extent  that  they  relate  to  past  services  and  amortized  over  the 

remaining vesting year to the extent that they relate to future services. The cumulative compensation cost that 

will ultimately be recognized is the fair value of the Corporation’s shares at the settlement date. 

29.  New and amended standards not yet adopted by the Corporation: 

IFRS 9 - Financial instruments 

In July 2014, the IASB released the final version of IFRS 9 - Financial Instruments (IFRS 2014). (“IFRS 9 (2014)”) presents 

a few differences with IFRS 9 (2009) and IFRS 9 (2010), early adopted by the Corporation on April 1, 2012, with respect 

to the classification and measurement of financial assets and accounting of financial liabilities. IFRS 9 (2014) also includes 

a  new  expected  credit  loss  model  for  calculating  impairment  on  financial  assets  and  new  general  hedge  accounting 

requirements. The standard is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018, with earlier application 

permitted.  The  Corporation  does  not  intend  to  early  adopt  IFRS  9  (2014).  The  Corporation  is  currently  evaluating  the 

impact of the standard on its consolidated financial statements. 

IFRS 15 - Revenue recognition 

In May 2014, the IASB issued IFRS 15 - Revenue from Contracts with Customers. IFRS 15 replaces all previous revenue 

recognition  standards,  including  IAS  18  -  Revenue,  and  related  interpretations  such  as  IFRIC  13  -  Customer  Loyalty 

Programs. The standard sets out the requirements for recognizing revenue. Specifically, the new standard introduces a 

comprehensive  framework  with  the  general  principle  being  that  an  entity  recognizes  revenue  to  depict  the  transfer  of 

promised  goods  and  services  in  an  amount  that  reflects  the  consideration  to  which  the entity expects  to  be entitled  in 

exchange for those goods or services. The standard introduces more prescriptive guidance than was included in previous 

standards and may result in changes in classification and disclosure in addition to changes in the timing of recognition for 

certain types of revenues. The new standard is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018 with 

early adoption permitted. The Corporation is currently evaluating the impact that this standard will have on its consolidated 

financial statements. The Corporation does not intend to early adopt the standard.  

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 98 

 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

IAS 16 – Property, Plant and Equipment 

On May 12, 2014, the IASB issued amendments to IAS 16 - Property, Plant and Equipment and IAS 38 - Intangible Assets. 

The amendments made to IAS 16 explicitly state that revenue-based methods of depreciation cannot be used for property, 

plant  and  equipment.  This  is  because  such  methods  reflect  factors  other  than  the  consumption  of  economic  benefits 

embodied in  the  asset. The amendments in  IAS 38 introduce a  rebuttable  presumption  that the use  of  revenue-based 

amortization methods for intangible assets is inappropriate. This presumption could be overcome only when revenue and 

consumption  of  the  economic  benefits  of  the  intangible  asset  are  highly  correlated  or  when  the  intangible  asset  is 

expressed  as  a  measure  of  revenue.  The  amendments  apply  prospectively  for  annual  periods  beginning  on  or  after 

January 1, 2016 with early adoption permitted. The Corporation intends to adopt the amendments to IAS 16 and IAS 38 

in its consolidated financial statements for the annual period beginning on April 1, 2016. The Corporation does not expect 

the amendments to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements. 

IAS 7 – Disclosure Initiative 

On January 7, 2016, the IASB issued amendments to IAS 7– Disclosure Initiative. The amendments require disclosures 

that enable users of financial statements to evaluate changes in liabilities arising from financing activities, including both 

changes arising from cash flows and non-cash changes. One way to meet this new disclosure requirement is to provide a 

reconciliation between the opening and closing balances for liabilities from financing activities. The Corporation intends to 

adopt the amendments to IAS 7 in its consolidated financial statements for the annual period beginning on April 1, 2017. 

The extent of the impact of adoption of the amendments has not yet been determined. 

IFRS 16 – Leases 

On January 13, 2016, the IASB issued IFRS 16 - Leases. This new standard is effective for annual periods beginning on 

or after January 1, 2019. Earlier application is permitted for entities that apply IFRS 15 -  Revenue from Contracts with 

Customers  at  or  before  the  date  of  initial  adoption  of  IFRS  16.  IFRS  16  will  replace  IAS  17  -  Leases.  This  standard 

introduces a single lessee accounting model and requires a lessee to recognize assets and liabilities for all leases with a 

term of more than 12 months, unless the underlying asset is of low value. A lessee is required to recognize a right-of-use 

asset  representing  its  right  to  use  the  underlying  asset  and  a  lease  liability  representing  its  obligation  to  make  lease 

payments.  This  standard  substantially  carries  forward  the  lessor  accounting  requirements  of  IAS  17,  while  requiring 

enhanced disclosures to be provided by lessors. Other areas of the lease accounting model have been impacted, including 

the  definition  of  a  lease.  Transitional  provisions  have  been  provided.  The  Corporation  intends  to  adopt  IFRS  16  in  its 

consolidated financial statements for the annual period beginning on April 1, 2019. The extent of the impact of adoption of 

the standard has not yet been determined. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 99 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Years ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 

(In thousands of Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

IFRS 2 – Share-based Payment 

On June 20, 2016, the IASB issued amendments to IFRS 2 Share-based Payment, clarifying how to account for 

certain types of share-based payment transactions. The amendments apply for annual periods beginning on or 

after January 1, 2018. As a practical simplification, the amendments can be applied prospectively. Retrospective, 

or early, application is permitted if information is available without the use of hindsight. The Company intends to 

adopt the amendments to IFRS 2 in its financial statements for the annual period beginning on January 1, 2018. 

The extent of the impact of adoption of the amendments has not yet been determined. 

IFRIC 22 – Foreign Currency Transactions 

On  December  8,  2016,  the  IASB  issued  IFRIC  Interpretation  22  Foreign  Currency  Transactions  and  Advance 

Consideration.  The  Interpretation  clarifies  which  date  should  be  used  for  translation  when  a  foreign  currency 

transaction involves an advance payment or receipt. The Interpretation is applicable for annual periods beginning 

on or after January 1, 2018. Earlier application is permitted. The Company intends to adopt the Interpretation in its 

financial statements for the annual period beginning on January 1, 2018. The extent of the impact of adoption of 

the Interpretation has not yet been determined. 

Annual Report 2017 | Stingray Digital Group Inc. | 100 

Annual General Meeting 
of Shareholders 

Provisional calendar  
of results 

The annual general meeting will be held 
on August 2, 2017 at: 

First quarter of 2018 
August 2, 2017 

Stingray Headquarters 
730 Wellington Street 
Montreal, Quebec 
H3C 1T4 
Canada

Second quarter of 2018 
November 9, 2017 

Third quarter of 2018 
February 8, 2018 

Fourth quarter of 2018 
June 7, 2018

Stock exchange 

Transfer agent 

TSX: RAY.A and RAY.B

CST Trust Company 
2001 Boulevard Robert-Bourassa 
Suite 1600 
Montreal, Quebec 
H3A 2A6 
Canada 
1-416-682-3860 or 1-800-387-0825 
inquiries@canstocka.com 
www.canstocka.com

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
stingray.com