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Schroders
Annual Report 2018

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FY2018 Annual Report · Schroders
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Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Highlights

Contents

Profit before tax 
and exceptional items

£761.2m

(2017: £800.3m)

Profit before tax

£649.9m

(2017: £760.2m)

Total dividend per share

114p

(2017: 113p)

Basic earnings per share 
before exceptional items

215.8p

(2017: 226.9p)

Basic earnings per share

183.1p

(2017: 215.3p)

Total equity

£3.6bn

(2017: £3.5bn)

Strategic report
Our purpose 
Our business at a glance 
Chairman’s statement 
Group Chief Executive’s review 
Market review 
Our investment capabilities 
Our strategy for 2018 and beyond 
Key performance indicators 
Our business model 
A strong financial position 
Business and financial review 
Creating a place people want to work 
Our people 
Driving high levels of corporate responsibility 
Our impact on society 
Key risks and mitigations 

Governance
Board of Directors and Bruno Schroder 
Group Management Committee and Company Secretary 
Corporate governance report 
Nominations Committee report 
Audit and Risk Committee report 
Remuneration report 
Directors’ report 
Statement of Directors’ responsibilities 

Financial statements
Consolidated financial statements 
Schroders plc financial statements 
Independent auditor’s report 

Shareholder information
Shareholder information 
Five-year consolidated financial summary 
Glossary 

1
2-3
4-5
6-9
10-11
12-13
14-15
16-17
18-19
20-21
22-29
30-31
32-33
34-35
36-39
40-47

48-50
51-53
54-59
60-61
62-67
68-90
91-93
94

96-150
151-167
168-175

176
177
178-180

Our Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held at 11.30am on 2 May 2019 at 1 London Wall Place, 
London, EC2Y 5AU.

A glossary of terms used throughout the Annual Report and Accounts, including details of 
Alternative Performance Measures, can be found from page 178.

As a global investment manager, our overall purpose is to help build the long-term 
future prosperity of our clients. We recognise that we have an important role to 
play in shaping our clients’ futures as well as having a strong focus on doing the 
right thing for our people, our suppliers and for society more widely. By 
understanding the needs of our stakeholders, we can deliver long-term growth 
for our shareholders. 

In order to deliver for our stakeholders, we prioritise growing a sustainable 
business that takes a long-term approach. We do this by investing behind strategic 
growth opportunities, which help us deliver on our commitment to provide 
positive outcomes for all of our clients, society, our shareholders and our people.

When our stakeholders prosper, so do we.

Clients
Our clients are at the centre of our business. Our ongoing 
success is built upon our understanding of their evolving needs 
and partnering with them to construct products and solutions 
that help them meet their financial goals. We are proud of our 
track record of delivering long-term performance for clients.

Society
As a principle-led business, we believe that engaging with 
companies on corporate responsibility is the right thing to do. 
As part of our commitment to society, we maintain positive 
relationships with our regulators. We also build strong 
relationships with our external service providers.

Three-year client investment 
performance*

74%

Environmental, social and governance (ESG)
engagements

2,200

Read about how we  
create value for our clients  
from page 13.

Read about how we  
create value for our people  
from page 31.

Read about how we  
create value for society  
from page 35.

Read about how we  
create value for our shareholders  
from page 21.

People
Our people are key to the ongoing success of the business. 
We are proud of our reputation as an employer of choice and 
of the talented people who drive our business. Our people 
strategy aims to attract, retain and develop an agile and diverse 
workforce, who we are able to provide with engaging and 
rewarding work.

Retention of key talent

94%

Shareholders
We rely on the support of our shareholders in order to generate 
sustainable long-term growth. Our business model aligns the 
interests of our shareholders with those of our clients. This 
means that in delivering for our clients, we create value for 
those invested in our business.

Basic earnings per share before 
exceptional items

215.8p

*  More information on how we measure investment performance is set out on pages 24 and 178-179.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

1

Strategic reportOur business at a glance

An active approach to building  
long-term future prosperity

We manage investments for institutions and individuals to help them meet their financial 
goals and prepare for the future. As the world changes, so do our clients’ needs. That’s why 
we have a long history of adapting to meet the challenges of the times, keeping our focus 
on what matters most to our clients. From pension funds and insurance companies to 
individuals and charities, we work with a wide range of clients, whose needs are as 
diverse as they are.

Asset Management

Wealth Management

We manage investments for institutions and private investors 
throughout the client life cycle.

Our institutional clients include local authorities, pension schemes, 
insurance companies and sovereign wealth funds. We also manage 
assets for end clients as part of our relationship with distributors, 
financial advisers and online platforms.

We believe that the key to delivering better outcomes lies in gathering 
highly talented people who bring a diverse range of thoughts and ideas. 
Our 42 investment teams in 19 global locations actively manage 
investments across a range of asset classes. Our approach allows us 
to channel our insights into the right outcomes for our clients.

Our client service teams build lasting relationships, which allow us to 
develop a clear view of our clients’ needs and how these may change 
over time.

By combining these client relationships with market insights and our 
strong investment capabilities, we can design bespoke products and 
services. These solutions are designed to fit our clients’ needs and are 
rigorously tested to ensure that they are fit for purpose.

We provide a wide range of wealth management 
services, which focus on preserving and growing 
our clients’ wealth. There will soon be three key 
components to supplement our existing wealth 
management offering, which reflects our strategic 
ambition to provide wealth management and 
financial planning services to clients across the 
wealth spectrum.

Cazenove Capital (in the UK and Channel Islands) 
and Schroder Wealth (outside the UK) offer bespoke 
discretionary and advisory investment services to 
private clients, family offices and charities.

Benchmark Capital provides technology-led 
regulatory and administrative services for a network 
of independent financial advisers, as well as 
providing platform services.

We have announced our plans to create a joint 
venture with Lloyds Banking Group in the UK. The 
business will be named Schroders Personal Wealth 
and will address the growing gap in the advice 
market by offering personalised financial planning 
and investment services to affluent customers.

Contribution to Group net income

Contribution to Group net income

£1,801.2m

Infrastructure

£289.8m

Our infrastructure teams provide critical services that support the business and include capabilities across Technology, Operations, 
Finance, Risk, Human Resources, Compliance, Legal, Governance, Internal Audit and Tax.

Group

The overall governance and corporate management of the Group is driven by the Chairman, Group Chief Executive and Chief Financial 
Officer, as well as employees involved in corporate development and strategy. 

Read more about how our business creates value in our business model on pages 18-19.

2 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

A diversified strategy  
for growing our business

Taking a diversified approach is important in an environment of uncertainty. By ensuring 
diversity across our business model, we are able to maintain our resilience to industry 
headwinds and generate long-term growth through the cycle. This means we can take 
a long-term view and continue to invest in our business. 

Assets under management (£407.2bn)

Geographies

Asset classes

Clients

UK
Asia Pacific
Europe, Middle East and Africa
Americas

40%
23%
22%
15%

Equities
Multi-asset
Fixed Income
Private Assets and Alternatives 
Wealth Management

38%
25%
17%
9%
11%

Institutional
Intermediary
Wealth Management

59%
30%
11%

Expanding the core business

At our core we are a committed active investment manager. Our product offering and range of strategic capabilities 
are structured around the areas that we believe demonstrate the clear, repeatable benefits of active management. 
We deploy seed capital to develop new strategies to achieve positive outcomes for our clients. This allows us to continue 
growing a core business that is diversified across geography, asset class and client type. 

Developing capabilities  
in private assets

Building closer relationships 
with our end clients

As the number of publicly-
listed companies continues 
to fall, we are seeing 
increased demand from 
clients for access to private 
markets. Broadening our 
investment expertise and 
product offering within 
private assets and 
alternatives remains a key 
strategic focus for us. 

We have recently made 
a number of successful 
acquisitions and investments 
to add further private equity, 
infrastructure finance, 
securitised credit and real 
estate capabilities to our 
product set. 

There has historically been a 
high level of intermediation 
between investment 
managers and their end 
clients, which can increase 
client turnover and the fees 
they pay. To reduce the 
impact of this and improve 
client longevity, we are 
working to build closer 
relationships with our end 

clients, particularly in wealth 
management. We have 
developed several key 
strategic partnerships to 
support this objective. These 
include Schroders Personal 
Wealth in the UK, our 
partnership with Maybank in 
Malaysia and our distribution 
relationship with Hartford 
Funds in the US.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

3

Strategic reportChairman’s statement

Performing in more  
challenging times

2018 was a challenging year for investors, particularly in the second half as 
most markets declined. As a result the asset management industry saw high 
levels of fund outflows towards the end of the year. Against this background 
Schroders delivered solid results with profit before tax and exceptional items 
of £761.2 million (2017: £800.3 million). Profit before tax was £649.9 million 
(2017: £760.2 million). Net outflows were £9.5 billion (2017: net inflows of 
£9.6 billion) and assets under management and administration at the end 
of the year amounted to £421.4 billion (2017: £447.0 billion).

4 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Dividend
Our policy is to provide our shareholders with a sustainable dividend, 
increasing dividends progressively in line with the trend in profitability 
and maintaining a payout ratio of approximately 50%. The Board will 
recommend to shareholders at the Annual General Meeting a final 
dividend of 79 pence per share (2017: 79 pence) bringing the full year 
dividend to 114 pence per share (2017: 113 pence). The final dividend 
will be paid on 9 May 2019 to shareholders on the register at 
29 March 2019. 

Corporate purpose 
Schroders plays a vital role in helping a broad range of investors 
from major institutional clients such as pension funds, insurance 
companies or sovereign wealth funds, through to individuals saving 
for retirement, meet their financial goals. Entrusted with more than 
£400 billion of client assets, we also have a major role to play in 
channelling capital to companies to support them in investing for 
growth and we actively engage with our investee companies in 
relation to strategy, governance and environmental impact.

Our business philosophy is based on our belief that if we deliver for 
our clients, by offering the investment capabilities which successfully 
protect and enhance their capital, then we will deliver satisfactory 
returns for our shareholders over the long term.

We have a wide range of stakeholders including clients, the 
companies in which we invest, our shareholders, our counterparties 
and suppliers, wider society and, of course, our employees. We have 
nominated Ian King, the Senior Independent Director, to be 
responsible for providing feedback from employees to the Board and 
Ian will attend several of our global employee forum meetings in 
2019. We were pleased to see in our 2018 employee opinion survey 
that 92% said they were proud to be associated with Schroders and 
86% said they would recommend Schroders as a good place to work.

We take very seriously the views of our clients and shareholders. At 
one of our Board meetings in 2018 we discussed a detailed report on 
client needs and how we are perceived by clients. We also discussed 
an investor review which we commissioned to gain shareholder 
insights into our strategy, competitive positioning and governance.

The Board
Bruno Schroder died on 20 February 2019, aged 86, after a short 
illness. Bruno joined the Board of Schroders in 1963 and made an 
enormous contribution to the Company over more than 50 years. 
He was passionate about Schroders, unwavering in his support and 
always thinking long term. He brought long experience, sound 
judgement and a sense of humour to our deliberations. He travelled 
widely on behalf of the Company, meeting clients and employees, 
supporting management and reinforcing our values. Bruno was 
anticipating retiring from the Board at the Annual General Meeting 
on 2 May 2019 but we were looking forward to his continued support. 
We will miss that and we send our heartfelt condolences to Bruno’s 
wife and family.

In anticipation of Bruno’s retirement, the Nominations Committee 
gave consideration in 2018 to the model for recognising in the Board 
composition the interests in the Company of the principal shareholder 
group, as well as to his succession. For over 40 years the Board has 
included two Directors with a connection to the principal shareholder 
group. We have been consistent in our view that having two members 
of the family serve on the Board benefits the Company in aligning 
interests and reinforcing long-term thinking. We continue to believe 

New headquarters
In September 2018 we moved to our new headquarters  
1 London Wall Place, which has enabled us to bring together 
almost all our London based employees in a new, state  
of the art building. It was a great honour to welcome  
Her Majesty The Queen to Schroders on 7 November 2018 to 
mark the occasion.

that the Board operates most effectively with an appropriate mix of 
executive Directors, independent non-executive Directors and 
Directors connected to the principal shareholder group. We 
confirmed that view as part of our succession discussions in 2018.

The Nominations Committee consulted with the trustees of the 
Schroder family trusts and other members of the principal 
shareholder group regarding a successor to Bruno Schroder. 
Following those consultations, the Committee received from the 
trustees a proposal that Leonie Schroder was their preferred 
candidate to succeed Bruno Schroder on the Board. After careful 
consideration, the Nominations Committee decided to recommend to 
the Board her appointment as a Director. The Board supported the 
proposal and she will join the Board effective 11 March.

Deborah Waterhouse will join the Board as an independent non-
executive Director also on 11 March. Deborah has considerable 
experience as Chief Executive of a major international business 
operating in many of the markets in which we are active. 

Robin Buchanan will retire as a Director at the Annual General 
Meeting in May having completed nine years on the Board. Robin 
has made a major contribution during his time on the Board and 
as a member of the Remuneration Committee and Audit and Risk 
Committee. He has always provided constructive challenge and 
valuable insights to our strategic discussions. On behalf of the 
Board, I would like to thank him for all he has done for the Company.

Our people
Schroders’ success derives from our diversified business model, 
our financial strength, our values and above all our more than 5,000 
talented people. We remain committed to the progress and 
development of our employees around the world and to providing 
an environment that is open, collaborative and based on merit.

2018 was a year of hard work and considerable achievement, laying 
the foundations for future growth in many areas of our business. 
On behalf of the Board I would like to extend our thanks to all our 
employees for their contribution to this success.

Michael Dobson
Chairman

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

5

Strategic reportGroup Chief Executive’s review

Investing to grow our business  
in a changing market

2018 was an important year for Schroders, with significant progress in  
a number of key areas. We have concluded some critical and strategically 
important initiatives that have positioned the firm well to meet the 
headwinds facing the industry. Our focus continues to be on investing  
for growth. 

We see growth opportunities across our business, but most notably in 
the Americas, Asia and in private markets. We also see clear benefits 
of moving closer to the end client through our wealth management 
capabilities. Our initiatives in 2018 helped us to continue to realign 
the business to take advantage of these opportunities and to bring us 
closer to realising our strategic objectives. At the same time, we have 
continued to differentiate ourselves through a strong focus on 
sustainability and responsible investing. 

One of the highlights of the year was the announcement of a 
wide-ranging partnership with Lloyds Banking Group (LBG). We were 
delighted to announce that LBG selected us to manage around 
£80 billion of its clients’ assets. This is one of the largest mandates 
ever awarded and is testament to the quality of our investment 
offering and leading technology capabilities. 

One of the highlights of the year was the 
announcement of a wide-ranging 
partnership with Lloyds Banking Group

6 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

In addition, we will enter into a strategic wealth and financial planning 
joint venture with LBG called Schroders Personal Wealth. This will see 
us combining our skills with its branch network to enhance the 
products and services available to UK savers and investors.

Generating sustainable, profitable growth requires investment in 
technology across the firm. Following a multi-year project, in 2018 we 
successfully transferred the majority of our clients’ assets on to a new 
front office technology platform. This provides the opportunity to 
improve efficiency, reduce operational risk and, importantly, enhance 
our service to clients.

Our employees have worked particularly hard during 2018 to deliver 
the many projects and initiatives we are focused on. I am immensely 
proud of what they have achieved and grateful to them all.

Despite this hard work, the market background has provided 
challenges. After a strong first half of the year, markets retreated 
during the second half in the face of trade disputes, rising interest 
rates and slowing growth. These weaker markets significantly 
reduced the amount of performance fees we were able to earn, 
compared with the unusually high levels achieved in 2017. Index-
tracking strategies continued to take share from active management 
and put further pressure on prices.

In spite of these headwinds, our growth initiatives in the Americas 
proved particularly beneficial. Within Asia, one large client outflow in 
fixed income in Japan offset an otherwise good performance in South 
East Asia. An increasing sense of risk aversion, particularly  
in continental Europe and the UK, had an impact on demand for 
equity products. 

In 2018, we generated net operating revenue of £2,070.7 million 
(2017: £2,010.2 million) and achieved a ratio of total costs to net 
income of 64% (2017: 61%). Pre-exceptional profit before tax was 
£761.2 million (2017: £800.3 million).

We remain committed to investing for future growth, notwithstanding 
the current market conditions, and recognise the importance of 
realising efficiencies. We have therefore taken the opportunity to 
undertake structural changes to the Group, realigning our resources 
to focus on areas of strategic growth. These one-off initiatives have 
led to certain costs that, together with other exceptional items, mean 
profit before tax was £649.9 million (2017: £760.2 million). 

More information on our financial performance is set out in the 
business and financial review from page 22.

Role to play for our stakeholders
Our overall purpose is to help build long-term future prosperity for 
our clients, and to do the right thing for our stakeholders. We believe 
that we have an important role to play in driving better outcomes 
for the world around us.

None of this would be possible without a 
talented and engaged workforce

We focus on helping our clients to meet their financial goals through 
active, long-term, responsible investing. Using a combination of 
fundamental research and data-driven insights, we can construct 
solutions that meet their changing needs.

This approach offers benefits to the wider economy. We actively 
engage with companies across the world to drive high levels of 
corporate responsibility, governance and transparency. Our 
thoughtful engagement helps to promote sustainable growth, both 
for our clients and society as a whole. With an increasing proportion 
of the world stock markets owned passively, we believe the 
responsibility of active managers to appropriately allocate capital 
is more important than ever.

None of this would be possible without a talented and engaged 
workforce. We pride ourselves on creating an inclusive and diverse 
culture, and a working environment that promotes collaboration 
and innovation. 

More information on our approach to sustainable investing can be 
found on pages 36-37.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

7

Strategic reportGroup Chief Executive’s review continued

Investment performance
As an active asset manager, we prioritise consistently delivering 
positive investment outcomes for our clients. Investment 
performance over three years (our key performance indicator) 
remained strong to 31 December 2018, with 74% of Asset 
Management assets outperforming. Over five years, 76% of assets 
outperformed and over one year the figure was 43%, as market 
movements in the fourth quarter impacted performance over the 
short term. More information on how we measure investment 
performance is set out on pages 24 and 178-179.

Evolving industry trends
Twelve months ago, I set out my views on the trends we were seeing 
across the industry. I discussed how, in an increasingly challenging 
environment, we had identified areas of future growth and how we 
are investing behind them. Wherever possible, we focus on evolving 
the business to benefit from these changing market dynamics. 

One year on, we have continued to see these trends develop. 
Geopolitical risks have grown and the economic uncertainty 
surrounding the slowing of quantitative easing is clear. Our clients are 
facing a difficult new environment of lower returns and increasing 
volatility. Technology offers new ways to engage with end consumers, 
to better understand markets and to drive efficiencies.

Against this backdrop, the strategic decisions that we make to evolve 
our business in response to these changes have never been more 
important. They are what will shape our future growth.

A closer relationship with our end clients
One of the challenges of our business is the high level of 
intermediation between us, as manufacturers, and our end 
customers. This can have the effect of increasing client turnover and 
the costs to clients. We aim to develop and maintain long-term 
relationships with our end clients, reducing the impact of this 
intermediation and aligning our interests.

We are continuing to develop strong 
relationships with end clients as well 
as institutions

Our Wealth Management business is an important part of how  
we can do this and is a strategic priority for us. In 2017, we acquired 
the wealth business of C. Hoare & Co. and in 2018 we further 
increased our investment in Benchmark Capital, both of which have 
been successful. 

Our strategic partnership with LBG is a further important 
development. It is exclusively focused on the needs of UK savers and 
investors. We expect to launch Schroders Personal Wealth later in 
2019, combining our investment expertise and leading technology 
with LBG’s significant client base, multi-channel distribution and 
digital capabilities.

We will also continue to pursue closer, longer-term relationships with 
our asset management clients. As we demonstrated with the award 
of the LBG mandate, we are well placed to offer broad-based, tailored 
solutions to meet complex client needs. In 2017, we launched our 
range of strategic capabilities, focused on our clients’ goals, be they 
income, growth, retirement or sustainability. In 2018, we invested 
further in developing our ability to offer complex solutions for 
clients globally.

A focused active offering
We are committed to active management and believe the ability to 
add value over a benchmark or make choices between markets will be 
more highly prized in a world of low returns. Furthermore, as clients 
increasingly recognise the value of better corporate governance 
and sustainability, the value of deep and close relationships with 
companies will become increasingly important. We continue to invest 
in new tools and sources of data to give our portfolio managers an 
edge in outperforming markets.

We continue to focus on strategic 
areas where active management can 
demonstrate clear repeatable benefits

Unquestionably, the growth in index-tracking products has been 
significant across equity markets and has increasingly spread to  
fixed income and multi-asset products. We recognise that passive 
strategies have an important role to play in keeping clients’ costs  
low. However, the growth of exchange-traded funds, which remain 
untested in challenging conditions, poses an ongoing threat to 
market stability. As market volatility rises, we will need to be especially 
vigilant in understanding the potentially significant impact of this risk 
as it emerges.

8 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Diversification away from public markets 
Increased regulation, growing public scrutiny and a diminishing need 
for growth capital has significantly undermined the attractiveness 
of companies listing on western stock exchanges. As a result, the 
number of public companies continues to shrink rapidly. Institutional 
investors have shifted their focus to private markets, where 
investment returns and risks can be more attractive.

In line with our stated strategy, we have continued to focus on further 
diversifying our product offering by expanding our capabilities in 
private assets and alternatives. In 2018, we broadened our expertise 
in real estate with the acquisition of Algonquin Management Partners 
S.A. (Algonquin), a hotel management company. We also made an 
investment in A10, a loan origination business based in the US. 

2018 also saw the first full year contribution from Schroder Adveq, 
the private equity business we acquired in 2017. This has grown to 
£7.4 billion of assets under management (AUM), benefiting from 
the combination of investment expertise and Schroders’ wider 
distribution footprint. We have supported this growth with 
investment in specialist infrastructure support and a dedicated private 
assets and alternatives distribution team. We continue to look for 
opportunities to further develop our offering in this area. 

In aggregate, private assets and alternatives account for 9% of our 
total AUM and 11% of our net operating revenue and we have a 
target of growing the latter measure to 20% over the long term. 

Technology investment across the business
I remain a passionate believer in the value that we can deliver 
by investing in innovative technology across the firm. The asset 
management industry has historically under-invested in this area 
and there are opportunities across our business. The benefits of 
technology investment can be categorised into three main areas.

The first is in delivering investment returns for clients. We have 
continued to invest in our data insights unit, which has now grown 
to more than 20 people globally. This is a team of data-scientists and 
geo-spatial engineers who use non-traditional and bespoke data sets 
to deliver proprietary insights for our fund managers. We have 
undergone behavioural biases training with our investment 
professionals, helping them identify their blind spots. We are also 
using technology to achieve more efficient trading processes, 
decreasing costs and achieving better outcomes for our clients.

The second area is in improving the client experience. Automating 
some of our processes gives clients timely and personalised access 
to their portfolios and relevant information, based on their holdings, 
behaviours and preferences. We have simplified client onboarding 
processes and real-time data provides us with insights into changing 
client demands.

I remain a passionate believer in the value 
that we can deliver by investing in 
innovative technology across the firm

The final area is in improving operational efficiency. Our industry 
is experiencing top-line pricing pressures and in order to maintain 
profitability we are investing today to improve efficiency tomorrow. 
The transition to a new front office technology platform was a 
significant step in this direction. We have also invested in robotics 
projects in a number of locations across Europe, Asia and the 
Americas. The automation of multi-system dynamic processes allows 
us to improve efficiency and free up resources to focus on areas 
of value add.

Success through our people
We are proud of our distinctive and collaborative culture, which 
focuses on doing the right thing for our stakeholders. Throughout 
this year, we have continued to work hard to build upon and protect 
this culture. I am delighted that our employee opinion survey showed 
that 92% of our people are proud to be associated with Schroders.

Our industry suffers from poor diversity. In common with much of 
financial services, it has consistently failed to attract and retain diverse 
talent. We are actively working to address this through new 
recruitment methods, better policies, unconscious bias training, clear 
targets and a tangible commitment from the executive team. 

Whilst we have made measurable progress on many metrics, this will 
remain an important focus for 2019. Achieving real diversity of 
thought will require further improvements.

More information on our achievements against diversity and inclusion 
objectives can be found on page 32.

Well-positioned for future growth
As we have demonstrated, our diversified business model and global 
footprint mean we are well-positioned to drive future growth over 
the long term.

There are headwinds facing the industry, but we remain confident in 
our ability to identify new opportunities across the regions and asset 
classes in which we operate. 

We will continue to invest behind these and maintain the long-term 
strength of our business. We will retain our intense focus on achieving 
positive investment outcomes for our clients and helping them build 
their future prosperity.

I look forward to working with the talented people across our 
business and continuing to lead our ongoing success.

Peter Harrison
Group Chief Executive

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

9

Strategic reportMarket review

2018 markets in review

Many of the themes that played a prominent role in recent years have continued in 2018.
After two years of steady growth in asset prices, 2018 proved to be a more challenging year, 
particularly in the last quarter.

A challenging macro backdrop
2018 began much as 2017 had ended. Risk assets continued to 
perform well, while government bonds saw prices decline and 
yields rise. 

However, by February market uncertainty had increased and investor 
sentiment had begun to worsen. While expectations for global growth 
had started the year relatively strongly, the introduction of tariffs 
marked the start of heightened trade tensions between China and the 
US. Within the US, tax cuts provided an added boost for investors 
heading into 2018, while GDP accelerated. The strength of the US 
dollar had an impact globally, particularly for emerging markets. 
Trade tensions and increasing oil prices impacted global growth, 
which reached a turning point around the middle of the year.

In continental Europe, there were elections across a number of 
countries. In Germany, the CDU/CSU alliance agreed, after months of 
negotiations, to re-establish their previous coalition agreement with 
the Social Democrats. However, reformation of the government that 
had performed poorly in the 2017 election led to further deterioration 
in poll ratings. Angela Merkel later announced that she would step 
down as CDU party leader and would not contest the next federal 
election. In Italy, victory for populist parties resulted in a coalition 
government. Cold weather in the Eurozone in the first three months 
of the year provided challenges for the region as markets struggled 
to recover confidence and exports dropped.

In emerging markets, Jacob Zuma resigned as president of South 
Africa after nine years in power. Initially, the appointment of his 
deputy helped to boost optimism but increasingly populist rhetoric 
ultimately negatively impacted investor sentiment. Initially some 
investors hoped that the US administration might ease pressure 
on Russia, but ultimately new sanctions were imposed. Mounting 
currency weakness in April marked the beginnings of crises in 
Argentina and Turkey. In October, an election in Brazil saw far right 
candidate Jair Bolsonaro defeat the establishment parties on an 
anti-corruption platform.

In the UK, the government put forward a plan, known as the 
Chequers Agreement, which was intended to be a compromise 
between a “soft” and “hard” Brexit. However, it proved to be widely 
unpopular in parliament and resulted in a number of resignations 
from the cabinet. Uncertainty over Brexit continued throughout the 
year, with Prime Minister Theresa May facing an internal party 
leadership challenge and being forced to delay the parliamentary 
vote on an updated withdrawal agreement until early 2019. The 
proposed agreement was defeated by a record margin in January 
2019, forcing Theresa May back to Brussels to renegotiate.

Monetary policy continued to be tightened through 2018 as the 
Federal Reserve (Fed) raised its interest rate target four times. 
Meanwhile, the European Central Bank (ECB) decided to taper its 
quantitative easing programme throughout 2018, with an end to 
purchases in December. Interest rates remained unchanged with the 

Asset class returns in 2018*

110

105

100

95

90

85

80

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

MSCI World equities
BofA Merrill Lynch Global High Yield
BofA Merrill Lynch Global Corporate Investment Grade
US 10-year Treasury bonds

* Returns in US dollar, rebased to 100 at 31 December 2017.

10 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

ECB providing guidance that it expects this to remain the case until 
mid-2019. The Bank of England raised rates only once in 2018, as 
uncertainty over Brexit clouded the outlook.

The People’s Bank of China moved contrary to the global trend and 
eased policy, not by cutting rates but through further reductions in 
the reserve requirement ratio and open market operations. Most 
other emerging market central banks enacted rate increases during 
2018, in part in reaction to the tighter policy emanating from the US.

A more volatile year for risk assets
2018 was a difficult year for investors in almost all markets. Across all 
major asset classes, only US cash made a positive return, while 
commodities and equities were the worst performing. The best 
non-cash asset class was US Treasuries, although they too failed to 
generate a positive return as interest rates rose.

Despite sentiment being poor, lower risk investment grade credit 
bonds underperformed riskier and lower quality high yield bonds. 
Reduced issuance in the high yield category seemed to provide 
support relative to investment grade credit. Gold also had a poor year 
as rising real interest rates sapped demand for the precious metal.

Usual seasonal patterns failed to materialise in 2018, with markets 
avoiding both the traditional summer sell-off and the ‘Santa rally’ 
towards the end of the year. In fact, December was the worst on 
record, with the MSCI World equity index losing 7.6% in the 
month alone.

The year was a poor one for equity investors in general, with all major 
indices netting a loss in both local currency and US dollar terms. The 
US equity market was the best performer with the FAANG (Facebook 
Apple, Amazon, Netflix, Google) stocks performing well in the first half 
of the year, until they were hit by data breaches and flagging sales in 
the second half. European markets saw mixed results, with Germany 
hit particularly hard, while less cyclical markets such as France and the 
UK performed better. In emerging markets, while the overall index 
was down, performance across different countries was dispersed.

Currency markets ended 2018 largely reflecting the anxieties of 
investors. The US dollar started the year weaker, which helped to 
boost risk assets. By April it had strengthened and ended the year up. 
The initial rise over the summer reflected the stronger US economy, 
however by autumn, the strong US dollar highlighted concern in the 
global economy. The euro had a reasonably steady year, finishing 
2018 slightly up, while things were more volatile for sterling owing to 
the lack of resolution on Brexit. In emerging markets, the strength of 
the dollar meant that very few currencies generated a positive return.

While US Treasuries posted a negative return in 2018, a number  
of government bonds saw positive returns. 10-year Australian 
government bonds and German Bunds were top performers, while 
Canadian bonds, UK gilts, French OATs and Japanese government 
bonds all achieved a positive return. Emerging market dollar 
denominated sovereign debt as a whole had a bad year, with Brazil 
the only country offering a positive return.

Currency returns in 2018*

110

105

100

95

90

85

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

British pound sterling
Euro
United States Dollar

* Effective exchange rate, based on a basket of major currencies, rebased to 100 at 31 December 2017.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

11

Strategic reportThe right capabilities  
to deliver for clients

Delivering investment capabilities to help create a more prosperous future  
because managing risks is as important as taking them

12 
12 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018
Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Our investment capabilities 

The cornerstone of our value proposition across both asset and wealth management,  
our investment capabilities enable us to fulfil our overall purpose of building future 
prosperity for our clients. By having the right capabilities for our clients, we can also  
do the right thing for our other stakeholders.

Strategic capabilities

Alpha Equity

Credit

Emerging Markets

Income

Liquid Alternatives

In a climate of low 
interest rates, investors 
need to look for 
solutions that have 
the potential to deliver 
higher performance and 
help them meet their 
financial goals.

Investors are facing poor 
returns from cash and 
government bonds. 
Opportunities for higher 
returns exist within 
credit markets that can 
be unlocked via in-depth 
research and active  
management.

Emerging markets 
comprise more than 60 
countries, each with 
their own local nuances. 
The right investment 
skills and local 
knowledge provide 
access to these 
exciting markets.

Over the past decade, 
traditional sources 
of income have begun 
to dry up, meaning 
investors need to look 
elsewhere to meet their 
income needs.

The relationships 
between equities, 
bonds and property 
are closer than ever. 
In this environment, 
alternative strategies 
can be a good source 
of uncorrelated returns. 

Multi-Asset Solutions

Private Assets

Retirement

Solutions

Sustainability

By diversifying across 
a variety of asset classes, 
investors can potentially 
improve performance 
and reduce risk. We 
see a trend towards 
solutions that invest in 
different asset classes. 

There are a number 
of opportunities within 
private markets that 
cannot be found 
publicly. Private assets 
can help our clients to 
target better returns or 
meet specific outcomes. 

As responsibility for 
retirement planning 
has shifted from 
governments and 
employers to the 
individual, people 
need to focus more on 
individualised retirement 
savings plans.

We have a long history 
of helping our clients 
to find solutions tailored 
to their needs. We draw 
on knowledge and 
experience from across 
the globe to build 
bespoke solutions and 
deliver risk management 
tools. 

Social and environmental 
change is happening 
faster than ever. We take 
an active approach to 
analysing the impact of 
these forces and invest 
in the companies that 
stand to benefit from 
this changing world.

Wealth Management

We provide a wide range of wealth management services, designed to meet the individual needs of our clients. Our wealth management teams 
are able to draw from a broad range of investment capabilities and also bring their own knowledge and experience. There will soon be three key 
components to our wealth management offering, reflecting our strategic ambition to provide wealth management and financial planning 
services to clients across the wealth spectrum.

We manage investments for institutions and individuals to help them meet their financial 
goals and prepare for the future. By combining a deep understanding of their financial 
needs with comprehensive, data-driven insights, we are able to build a clear picture of 
our clients’ requirements. We are proactive in helping our clients prosper.

How we engage
We build close, lasting relationships with our clients. 
This gives us an in-depth understanding of their 
financial needs.

The value we create
As an active investment manager, we are committed 
to delivering consistent outcomes for our clients, 
whether that is outperforming a benchmark or peer 
group, or achieving a specific outcome.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

13

Strategic reportOur strategy for 2018 and beyond

Continuing to develop a long-term 
sustainable business

We see significant opportunities in three key areas – the further development of our core 
asset management business, expansion of our private assets and alternatives 
capabilities and building closer relationships with end clients. This helps us to deliver on our 
commitment to build future prosperity for our clients and provide positive outcomes for 
our stakeholders. 

Our priorities

Why it’s important

Develop and maintain  
long-term client partnerships

Offer a range of 
innovative products 

Consistently deliver  

outcomes for clients

Develop leading 

technology

Developing and retaining  

talented people

We focus on helping our clients achieve 
their financial goals and build their future 
prosperity. This allows us to sustainably 
grow our business over the long term, 
helping us to deliver positive outcomes 
for our wider stakeholder groups.

By building close partnerships with our 
clients, we can gain a deeper understanding 
of their needs, leading to greater client 
longevity and new business opportunities.

Providing innovative products and solutions 
to meet the increasingly complex needs of 
our clients is crucial to our future growth.

Our clients are increasingly looking for 
products that can provide a specific 
outcome rather than just offering exposure 
to a market or asset class. Our range of 
strategic capabilities is designed to provide 
our clients with the necessary products to 
build their future prosperity. 

One of our strategic priorities is to focus on 
developing closer relationships with our 
end clients, particularly in Wealth 
Management. This allows us to reduce the 
impact of intermediation between us as 
manufacturers and our clients.

We continually look to expand our core 
product offering and expand into new areas 
of investment expertise. In recent years, we 
have focused particularly on developing our 
capabilities in private assets 
and alternatives.

Key performance indicators

 – Net new business

 – Net operating revenue

 – Net new business

 – Net operating revenue

Progress through 2018

Growth opportunities

 – Continued momentum in North America 

with £3.0 billion of net new business

 – Winning the Lloyds Banking Group (LBG) 
mandate, one of the largest awarded in 
UK asset management

 – Increased proximity to end clients with 
the growth of our Wealth Management 
business and the announcement of our 
strategic partnerships with LBG in the UK 
and Maybank in Malaysia

 – Attract and retain business with clients, 
particularly in strategically important 
growth areas 

 – Increase client longevity through focus 
on products and client relationships

 – Continue to build our proximity to 
end clients including through the 
LBG partnership

 – Development of our strategic capability 
range with the acquisition of Algonquin 
and relationship with A10

 – Growth of private assets and alternatives, 

with £2.3 billion of net new business

 – Increased seed and co-investment to 

support new products

 – Launch of 70 new products in 2018, 
focusing on strategically important 
growth areas such as sustainability, 
private assets and solutions

 – Continue to develop our  

strategic capabilities

 – Maintain our commitment to  
developing new products

 – Focus on private assets and alternatives, 
diversifying our business away from 
public markets

Key risks

1

2

3

6

7

10

16

17

1

2

3

6

7

8

9

19

20

21

22

1

3

4

5

6

7

17

2

3

2

6

3

7

11

12

13

15

18

3

6

10

13

14

18

  Find out about these risks and how our strategy mitigates them from page 44.

Read more within the key performance indicator section and Directors’ remuneration report from pages 16 and 68 respectively.

14 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

As an active investment manager, we are 

Our business inherently involves processing 

Developing and retaining a diverse and 

committed to delivering consistent 

and analysing data to achieve a desired 

talented workforce is key to the delivery of 

outcomes for our clients.

outcome. It is critical to our ongoing 

our business model.

success that we have leading technology to 

While many of our strategies seek to 

outperform a stated benchmark or peer 

support this.

We invest heavily in our people, offering 

opportunities to grow their knowledge, 

group, client demand is increasing for 

Better use of technology can be employed 

skills and capabilities. We also focus on 

outcome-oriented solutions, which provide 

to innovate, improving productivity and 

providing them with a positive working 

a specific result such as income or 

efficiency. In doing so, we can continue to 

environment that supports productivity, 

risk-management.

evolve and develop our business, adding 

innovation and collaboration.

Delivering outperformance or achieving a 

In supporting our people to operate at their 

predefined outcome increases value for our 

Our philosophy of investing in the future 

very best, we are able to deliver positive 

clients and builds trust in our business. 

growth of our business includes an 

outcomes for our stakeholders.

value for our clients and other stakeholders.

emphasis on embracing technology and 

comes with a focus on cost discipline.

 – Client investment performance

 – Ratio of total costs to net income

 – Retention of key talent

 – Net new business

 – Net operating revenue

 – Client investment performance

 – 74% of our assets outperformed their 

 – Implementation of a new front office 

 – 94% retention rate of highly rated 

stated comparator over three years. 

More details on our performance 

reporting can be found on pages 24 and 

 – Developed our ability to deliver complex, 

including:

risk-managed solutions to meet client 

178-179

needs

technology platform, improving efficiency 

employees

and driving better outcomes

 – 41% of employees have been with us for 

 – Continued investment in technology 

more than six years

solutions throughout the business, 

 – Female representation in senior 

management roles ended the year 

 – Robotics and automation projects in 

at 32%

Europe, Asia and the Americas

 – Investment in cloud-based technology 

with Schroders

systems for all employees in London

 – 92% of employees proud to be associated 

 – Move to new London headquarters at 

1 London Wall Place

 – Continue to deliver high levels of 

 – Continue to invest in technology across 

 – Maintain high retention rate for highly-

investment performance for clients

the firm

rated employees

 – Provide value for money and build  

 – Ongoing investment in robotics and 

 – Continue to target 33% of female 

clients’ future prosperity

automation

representation in senior management 

roles by the end of 2019

 – Maintain cost discipline through focus on 

ratio of total costs to net income

Our priorities

Why it’s important

Key performance indicators

 – Net new business

 – Net operating revenue

 – Net new business

 – Net operating revenue

Progress through 2018

We focus on helping our clients achieve 

Providing innovative products and solutions 

their financial goals and build their future 

to meet the increasingly complex needs of 

prosperity. This allows us to sustainably 

our clients is crucial to our future growth.

grow our business over the long term, 

helping us to deliver positive outcomes 

for our wider stakeholder groups.

Our clients are increasingly looking for 

products that can provide a specific 

outcome rather than just offering exposure 

By building close partnerships with our 

to a market or asset class. Our range of 

clients, we can gain a deeper understanding 

strategic capabilities is designed to provide 

of their needs, leading to greater client 

our clients with the necessary products to 

longevity and new business opportunities.

build their future prosperity. 

One of our strategic priorities is to focus on 

We continually look to expand our core 

developing closer relationships with our 

product offering and expand into new areas 

end clients, particularly in Wealth 

of investment expertise. In recent years, we 

Management. This allows us to reduce the 

have focused particularly on developing our 

impact of intermediation between us as 

capabilities in private assets 

manufacturers and our clients.

and alternatives.

 – Continued momentum in North America 

 – Development of our strategic capability 

with £3.0 billion of net new business

range with the acquisition of Algonquin 

 – Winning the Lloyds Banking Group (LBG) 

and relationship with A10

mandate, one of the largest awarded in 

 – Growth of private assets and alternatives, 

UK asset management

with £2.3 billion of net new business

 – Increased proximity to end clients with 

 – Increased seed and co-investment to 

the growth of our Wealth Management 

support new products

business and the announcement of our 

strategic partnerships with LBG in the UK 

and Maybank in Malaysia

 – Launch of 70 new products in 2018, 

focusing on strategically important 

growth areas such as sustainability, 

private assets and solutions

growth areas 

on products and client relationships

 – Continue to build our proximity to 

end clients including through the 

LBG partnership

 – Focus on private assets and alternatives, 

diversifying our business away from 

public markets

  Find out about these risks and how our strategy mitigates them from page 44.

Develop and maintain  

long-term client partnerships

Offer a range of 

innovative products 

Consistently deliver  
outcomes for clients

Develop leading 
technology

Developing and retaining  
talented people

As an active investment manager, we are 
committed to delivering consistent 
outcomes for our clients.

While many of our strategies seek to 
outperform a stated benchmark or peer 
group, client demand is increasing for 
outcome-oriented solutions, which provide 
a specific result such as income or 
risk-management.

Delivering outperformance or achieving a 
predefined outcome increases value for our 
clients and builds trust in our business. 

Our business inherently involves processing 
and analysing data to achieve a desired 
outcome. It is critical to our ongoing 
success that we have leading technology to 
support this.

Better use of technology can be employed 
to innovate, improving productivity and 
efficiency. In doing so, we can continue to 
evolve and develop our business, adding 
value for our clients and other stakeholders.

Our philosophy of investing in the future 
growth of our business includes an 
emphasis on embracing technology and 
comes with a focus on cost discipline.

Developing and retaining a diverse and 
talented workforce is key to the delivery of 
our business model.

We invest heavily in our people, offering 
opportunities to grow their knowledge, 
skills and capabilities. We also focus on 
providing them with a positive working 
environment that supports productivity, 
innovation and collaboration.

In supporting our people to operate at their 
very best, we are able to deliver positive 
outcomes for our stakeholders.

 – Client investment performance

 – Ratio of total costs to net income

 – Retention of key talent

 – Net new business

 – Net operating revenue

 – 74% of our assets outperformed their 
stated comparator over three years. 
More details on our performance 
reporting can be found on pages 24 and 
178-179

 – Developed our ability to deliver complex, 
risk-managed solutions to meet client 
needs

 – Client investment performance

 – Implementation of a new front office 

 – 94% retention rate of highly rated 

technology platform, improving efficiency 
and driving better outcomes

 – Continued investment in technology 
solutions throughout the business, 
including:

 – Robotics and automation projects in 

Europe, Asia and the Americas

 – Investment in cloud-based technology 
systems for all employees in London

employees

 – 41% of employees have been with us for 

more than six years

 – Female representation in senior 

management roles ended the year 
at 32%

 – 92% of employees proud to be associated 

with Schroders

 – Move to new London headquarters at 

1 London Wall Place

Growth opportunities

 – Attract and retain business with clients, 

 – Continue to develop our  

particularly in strategically important 

strategic capabilities

 – Continue to deliver high levels of 

 – Continue to invest in technology across 

 – Maintain high retention rate for highly-

investment performance for clients

the firm

rated employees

 – Maintain our commitment to  

 – Provide value for money and build  

 – Ongoing investment in robotics and 

 – Continue to target 33% of female 

 – Increase client longevity through focus 

developing new products

clients’ future prosperity

automation

 – Maintain cost discipline through focus on 

ratio of total costs to net income

representation in senior management 
roles by the end of 2019

Key risks

1

2

3

6

7

10

16

17

1

2

3

6

7

8

9

19

20

21

22

1

3

4

5

6

7

17

2

3
2

6
3

7

11

12

13

15

18

3

6

10

13

14

18

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

15

Strategic reportKey performance indicators

Tracking progress  
against our strategy

To ensure that we are delivering against our strategy, we track progress against a number 
of key performance indicators.

Client investment performance (%)

74%

We target at least 60% of our AUM to outperform their stated 
comparator over rolling three-year periods.

Net new business (£bn)

£(9.5)bn

We seek to generate positive net new business across the business.

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

78

2014

24.8

72

74

74

74

2015

2016

2017

2018

(9.5)

13.0

1.1

9.6

Investment performance over a three-year period continued to  
be strong in 2018, with 74% of assets outperforming their stated 
comparator. We have been above our target for each of the past 
five years.

Macro and political uncertainty weighed on investor sentiment  
in 2018 and we saw total net outflows of £9.5 billion. There were net 
outflows of £6.6 billion in our Institutional sales channel and 
£4.6 billion from Intermediary clients. 

Five-year investment outperformance was 76% and the one-year 
figure was 43% as significant market movements in the fourth  
quarter impacted short-term performance.

For more details on how we calculate investment performance, 
please see pages 24 and 178-179.

Wealth Management continued to perform strongly and generated 
£1.7 billion of net inflows.

Assets under management and administration (£bn)

Retention of key talent (%)

£421.4bn

94%

We aim to grow AUMA over time in excess of market growth through 
positive investment outperformance and net new business. As a 
sterling denominated reporter, currency movements may also 
impact asset levels.

Developing and retaining talented people is key to our ongoing 
success. We actively monitor our retention of those employees who 
have been rated as either outstanding or exceed expectations in their 
annual performance review.

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

300.0

313.5

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

395.3

447.0

421.4

94

94

95

94

94

AUMA decreased by 6% in 2018 to £421.4 billion, as global markets 
declined and investor sentiment worsened, particularly in the 
fourth quarter. 

Our retention of highly-rated employees has consistently been more 
than 90%. This represents a committed and engaged workforce, 
which is aligned with Schroders’ values.

Falling markets reduced AUMA by £30.3 billion, while currency 
movements increased assets by £10.7 billion. We saw £9.5 billion 
of net outflows while acquisitions net of disposals added £0.6 billion  
of AUM. AUA increased by £2.9 billion to £14.2 billion.

16 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Net operating revenue (£bn)

Ratio of total costs to net income* (%)

£2.1bn

64%

Net operating revenue is primarily revenues generated from AUM, 
less cost of sales. We aim to grow net operating revenue over time as 
AUM increase. However, this is also impacted by changing fee rates 
which result in different revenue margins.

We target a 65% ratio of total costs to net income, recognising that in 
weaker markets the ratio may be higher than our long-term target.

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

1.5

1.6

1.7

2014

2015

2016

2017

2.0

2.1

2018

64

63

64

61

64

Net operating revenue increased 3% to £2.1 billion as average AUM 
increased in 2018.

In 2018, this ratio was better than our target at 64%. We have 
exceeded our target for each of the past five years. 2017 benefited 
from an accounting adjustment relating to deferred compensation 
for material risk takers (see page 25) as well as unusually high 
performance fees.

Basic earnings per share* (p)

Dividend per share (p)

215.8p

114p

We aim to grow earnings per share consistently, recognising the 
potential impact of market volatility on results in the short term.

Our policy is to increase dividends progressively, in line with the trend 
in profitability and to maintain a payout ratio of approximately 50%. 
For more information, see page 29.

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

166.8

176.9

186.3

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

226.9

215.8

78

87

93

113

114

In 2018, basic earnings per share before exceptional items was 
215.8 pence.

The Board is recommending a final dividend of 79 pence per share, 
bringing the total dividend for the year to 114 pence per share. This 
represents a payout ratio of 53%.

*  Before exceptional items

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

17

Strategic reportOur business model

A sustainable business designed  
to deliver positive outcomes  
for stakeholders over the long term

What we offer

How we do it

Our clients are at the centre of our business. Our ongoing 
success is built on our understanding of their evolving needs. 
We partner with them and construct products and solutions 
that help them meet their changing financial goals. We are 
proud of our track record of delivering performance for clients.

t i o n s

Building future 
prosperity for our 
clients

U

n

d

e

r

s

t

a

n

d

c

l

i

e
n
t
s

’

g
o
a
l
s

anage s o l u
ely m

v
i
t
c
A

D

e

v

elop innovative   p r o d u

s

t

c

Building future prosperity for our clients
We recognise that we have an important role to play in shaping our clients’ 
financial futures. By delivering investment outperformance and providing value 
for money to our clients, we can continue to successfully grow our business and 
deliver for our other stakeholder groups.

We earn fees charged as a percentage of our clients’ AUMA. We may also earn 
other revenues, such as performance fees, carried interest and transaction-
related fees. 

We actively manage investment 
solutions to help build future 
prosperity for our clients. In 
doing so, we are able to deliver 
positive outcomes for our 
other stakeholders, including 
our shareholders, our people 
and society.

We offer innovative products and solutions 
across a wide range of asset classes, 
including equities, fixed income, multi-
asset, private assets and alternatives. 

Within our Asset Management business, 
we work with institutional clients, including 
pension funds, insurance companies and 
sovereign wealth funds. We also work with 
a variety of intermediaries, including 
financial advisers, private wealth managers 
and online platforms.

We offer a wide range of wealth 
management services, which focus on 
preserving and growing our clients’ 
wealth. Our wealth management offering 
reflects our strategic ambition to provide 
wealth management and financial 
planning services to clients across the 
wealth spectrum.

We differentiate ourselves 
from our competitors through:

A strong financial position
Our ownership structure and strong capital 
base enables us to take a long-term 
perspective. It means we can remain 
focused on our strategy and take advantage 
of opportunities in any market environment.

Close, lasting relationships
We focus on developing strong 
relationships with our clients, which give us 
an in-depth understanding of their financial 
needs. We use these insights to identify 
and build solutions that help our clients to 
achieve their financial goals.

A diversified business
Our business is genuinely diversified by 
asset class, geography and client type. This 
means that we are more resilient to 
changes in client demand or economic 
cycle and can focus on delivering for 
our stakeholders.

18 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
 
The right 
capabilities  
to deliver for 
clients
Understand clients’ goals
We build principled partnerships 
with our clients to understand 
their financial goals. This allows 
us to provide a high level of 
client service and select 
appropriate products to meet 
their needs.

Develop innovative 
products
We design innovative products 
to consistently meet our clients’ 
financial needs, whether that is 
outperforming a comparator, 
providing a regular sustainable 
income or delivering 
an absolute return.

Actively manage 
solutions
We take an active approach  
to managing investment 
solutions designed to build our 
clients’ future prosperity over 
the long term.

Read more about our 
investment capabilities on 
page 13.

What we deliver for other stakeholders

Our client-led approach to maintaining a successful business 
model allows us to deliver for other stakeholders, including our 
shareholders, people, society as a whole, regulators and suppliers.

Read more about our stakeholders on page 59.

The right proposition to deliver  
for shareholders
Our business model focuses on delivering growth over the long term, which 
enables us to generate sustainable shareholder returns. We rely on the support 
and engagement of our shareholders to generate long-term growth. The 
interests of our shareholders are very closely aligned with those of our clients, 
which means that in doing the right thing for our clients, we are also able to 
deliver value to those invested in our business.

Dividend per share

114p

Read our investment proposition on page 21.

The right culture to deliver  
for our people
Our people are central to the ongoing success of the business. We are proud of 
our reputation as an employer of choice that provides our people with inspiring 
and motivating places to work. Our people strategy aims to attract, develop and 
retain an agile and diverse workforce, who we are able to provide with engaging 
and rewarding work.

Retention of key talent

94%

Read about our people on page 31.

The right principles to deliver  
for society
As a principle-led business, we believe that engaging with companies and 
demanding high levels of corporate responsibility is the right thing to do. As part 
of our commitment to society, we build positive relationships with our regulators 
globally. We also have good relationships with the external service providers we 
use to supplement our own infrastructure.

Company engagements on environmental, social and 
governance (ESG) issues

2,200

Read about our impact on society from page 35.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

19

Strategic reportThe right proposition  
to deliver for our shareholders

Delivering positive outcomes and a long-term view for our shareholders  
because the road ahead is more important than the path behind

20 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

A strong financial position 

Our ownership structure and strong capital base allow us to take 
a long- term perspective. This supports us in staying focused on our 
strategy and investing in the opportunities available to us to deliver 
value for our shareholders and other stakeholders.

Total equity 

£3.6bn

(2017: £3.5bn)

Regulatory surplus  
capital

£1.2bn

(2017: £1.4bn)

Lasting client relationships and a focus on product development

An in-depth understanding of our clients’ financial needs, coupled with data-driven market 
intelligence, helps us build a clear picture of future trends and changing client demands.

Assets under management and administration

Seed and co-investment capital

£421.4bn

(2017: £447.0bn)

£535m

(2017: £392m)

Diversified by geography, asset class and client type

As a global business with people across six continents, we have a clear understanding  
of what matters most to our clients, wherever they are in the world.

Our business is diversified across 
the UK (40%), Asia-Pacific (23%), 
Europe, Middle East and Africa 
(22%) and the Americas (15%).

Within our asset management 
business, we invest across a range 
of asset classes including equities 
(43%), multi-asset (28%), fixed 
income (19%), private assets and 
alternatives (10%).

Our client base consists of 
institutional (59%), intermediary 
(30%) and wealth management 
clients (11%).

We focus on delivering growth over the long term, which enables us to generate 
sustainable shareholder returns. By aligning our interests with those of our clients, we can 
continue to grow our business and successfully deliver returns for our shareholders.

How we engage
We engage with our shareholders in a number of ways 
throughout the financial year. This includes the AGM, 
Annual Report and Accounts, results presentations and 
a comprehensive investor relations programme.

The value we create 
By delivering value for our clients we are able to 
grow the business and generate returns for our 
shareholders. This means that in doing the right thing 
for our clients we are also able to deliver value to those 
invested in our business and other stakeholders.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

21

Strategic reportBusiness and financial review

Making progress in 
challenging markets

2018 was an important year for Schroders. We implemented  
a new front office investment platform and moved into our new 
headquarters in London, both of which offer significant benefits for our 
clients and our people. We continued to develop the business in line with our 
strategic priorities and made a number of investments in new opportunities. 

We delivered pre-tax and exceptional profits of £761.2 million in 2018. 
That is down from profits of £800.3 million we reported last year, but 
in 2017 these included unusually high performance fees and a one-off 
accounting benefit relating to deferred compensation, which is 
explained on page 23. Taking into account these two impacts and the 
significant investments we have been making to grow the business, 
we are pleased with the progress we have made in 2018 and the 
results we have delivered. 

Net operating revenues increased by 3% in 2018 to £2,070.7 million 
(2017: £2,010.2 million). Excluding performance fees and carried 
interest, the growth in this key performance indicator was 4%, 
principally driven by a year-on-year increase in average AUM. 

The growth in average AUM was driven by net new business, along 
with acquisitions. Markets, net of currency movements, did not have 
any impact on the growth of average AUM and therefore net 
operating revenue.

22 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

As well as focusing on growing the business, we are committed to 
delivering long-term efficiencies and being an employer of choice, 
which is able to attract, retain and develop the best talent. In line with 
these objectives, we continue to invest in technology to enhance our 
processes and review our operating model to ensure it is optimal 
for the future. In the second half of 2018, we completed the 
implementation of our new front office technology platform and 
moved into our new headquarters, based in London. These are 
important developments in our infrastructure and support our overall 
strategy, enabling technological solutions for various aspects of the 
business and facilitating efficient, scalable growth.

Our new investment platform provides additional capabilities for our 
fund managers, enabling them to deliver tailored solutions to our 
clients across our product offering. We are investing in further change 
initiatives, including embracing technology such as robotic process 
automation, which can be effectively deployed to drive efficiencies. 

The move into our new headquarters, based in London, was a 
significant event for Schroders and is an important component 
in attracting and retaining talent and promoting our collaborative 
approach that is part of ensuring we continue to be successful. 
The building’s design is in line with our focus on corporate and 
social responsibility, and specifically the environment.

As we maintain our focus on the long-term growth of the business, 
this year we have undertaken a targeted cost reduction programme, 
taking advantage of operating efficiency opportunities coming from 
our investment in technology and other developments. This resulted 
in a one-off charge of £56.0 million, which we have recorded within 
exceptional items, reflecting the fact that this is not a normal activity 
for us. Along with other exceptional costs, the majority of which relate 
to amortisation of intangible assets, the pre-tax profit after 
exceptional items decreased to £649.9 million (2017: £760.2 million).

As a UK-listed business, we have been closely monitoring the progress 
of the Brexit negotiations between the UK and the EU. We already 
have a strong presence in continental Europe and we do not expect 
Brexit to have a significant impact on our operating activities, 
although we are prepared to make necessary changes where these 
may be required. In 2018, we have taken steps to develop our 
corporate structure in continental Europe and added permissions 
to enable us to continue to service our European clients. 

Overall, we believe we are well-placed to deal with the ongoing 
industry challenges and market conditions, while remaining focused 
on our long-term strategic priorities.

Reflecting our dividend policy and the decline in pre-tax and 
exceptional profits this year, the Board is recommending a final 
dividend of 79 pence per share (2017: 79 pence) which, after the 
increase to the interim dividend, brings the total dividend for the 
year to 114 pence (2017: 113 pence).

The following commentary provides a more detailed review 
of our financial results. 

Net new business in 2017 and 2018 contributed around £41 million 
to the growth in 2018 management fees. We expect the net outflows 
in 2018 to reduce annualised revenues by around £35 million in 2019. 
Acquisitions this year and last contributed around £72 million to the 
additional revenues, principally from the acquisition of Schroder 
Adveq, which completed in July 2017. 

The increase in net operating revenue drove a 3% rise in net income 
to £2,123.9 million (2017: £2,068.9 million). This was a good 
performance, particularly when the unusually high levels of 
performance fees generated last year are considered. However, the 
growth was more than offset by expected increases to our cost base. 

Profit before tax and exceptional items  
of £761.2 million

These cost increases include a reduction to the accounting benefit 
we recognised in 2017, following a regulatory driven change to the 
deferral of compensation costs for material risk takers (MRTs). This 
resulted in a 1% reduction to the total compensation ratio in 2017. 
The accounting benefit of the change reduced to around 0.5% this 
year. Despite the reduction to this benefit, we have maintained a 
total compensation ratio of 43% in 2018. This follows a targeted cost 
reduction programme which is explained below. Reflecting the 
investments we are making to grow the business, we have seen some 
increases in non-compensation costs. However, our ratio of total cost 
to net income continues to be better than our long-term target of 
65%. The result is profit before tax and exceptional items of 
£761.2 million (2017: £800.3 million). 

We have delivered these results despite challenging conditions as 
market uncertainty re-emerged, particularly towards the end of the 
year. This period of uncertainty comes as the headwinds facing the 
sector continue to present challenges. 

We still see the impact of industry changes, shifting product demand 
and market-wide pricing pressures resulting in further underlying 
declines in fee margins. In this context, we remain focused on our 
strategic initiatives, set out in the Group Chief Executive’s report, and 
particularly in growing our core Asset Management business, while 
also looking to expand our capabilities in private assets and building 
closer relationships with our end clients. 

The most significant expansion of our private assets capabilities 
this year came through the acquisition of Algonquin Management 
Partners S.A. (Algonquin), which completed in May 2018. Algonquin is 
a specialist pan-European hotels investment management business 
that complements our existing real estate capabilities. The acquisition 
added £1.6 billion of AUM from institutional clients across continental 
Europe. As our private assets and alternatives capability grows, it is 
changing the dynamics of our performance. It is reducing the impact 
of fee margin pressures that are affecting the industry in our core 
Asset Management business, as well as increasing client longevity. 
Importantly for Schroders, it is expanding our already diverse product 
offering in line with our strategic capabilities summarised on page 13. 

In October, we announced a strategic partnership with Lloyds 
Banking Group (LBG) that we expect to complete in 2019. This 
partnership will add significant AUM to the Group, as well as creating 
a strategically important joint venture called Schroders Personal 
Wealth in the financial planning space. We believe that this will drive 
further growth for the Group in the UK wealth management and 
savings market, bringing us closer to our end clients.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

23

Strategic reportBusiness and financial review continued

Assets under management and administration 
(AUMA)
Geopolitical uncertainty and trade fears have been a consistent theme 
throughout 2018, particularly towards the end of the year and into 
2019. These have led to a general decline in most major equity 
markets around the world, with many suffering double digit falls in 
the fourth quarter. The Group Chief Executive’s review, on pages 6 to 
9, provides further details on the market dynamics and industry 
trends affecting the Group. These matters are important to 
understanding our results as they are a key driver of the changes to 
our AUMA.

Against this backdrop of uncertainty and market volatility, our AUMA 
declined by 6% to close 2018 at £421.4 billion (2017: £447.0 billion). 
AUMA comprises assets managed or advised on behalf of clients 
(AUM) of £407.2 billion (2017: £435.7 billion) and assets under 
administration (AUA) where we solely provide administrative support 
through our Benchmark Capital business of £14.2 billion 
(2017: £11.3 billion). 

There are four components to the movement in our AUMA: 

 – net new flows from clients 

 – assets acquired or disposed of through acquisitions or disposals

 – investment returns, including currency movements

 – changes in AUA

AUM in the Asset Management segment decreased by 7% to 
£363.5 billion at 31 December 2018 (2017: £389.8 billion). This decline 
occurred as many markets around the world retreated on the back  
of continued economic uncertainty and global trade tensions. These 
decreases led to negative investment returns of £16.7 billion and  
also impacted on investor sentiment. Within our Institutional sales 
channel, we had net client withdrawals of £6.6 billion. This was 
principally driven by the loss of a single mandate, although we  
were also impacted by a small number of clients restructuring their 
portfolios and internalising parts of their investment strategies. There 
were net redemptions from our Intermediary sales channel of 
£4.6 billion. These outflows were principally from equity products as 
clients, particularly in continental Europe, looked to de-risk their 
portfolios on the back of the continued market uncertainty.

Wealth Management is a strategic focus for us and continues to be an 
area of growth. In 2018, we generated £1.7 billion of net new business 
from clients, with £0.3 billion in our Schroder Wealth business and 
£1.4 billion through Benchmark Capital. 

The outlook for 2019 continues to be impacted by the uncertainty 
both in the UK and continental Europe, principally relating to Brexit, 
but also globally owing to ongoing macroeconomic issues. Against 
this backdrop, we were pleased to announce that we had won the 
LBG mandate, which we expect to fund in the second half of 2019 
and to introduce around £80 billion of additional AUM.

Wealth Management is a strategic focus for 
us and continues to be an area of growth 
with £1.7 billion of net new money in 2018

Client investment performance
Our ability to generate positive investment outcomes for clients is 
central to our success as an active investment manager. Investment 
performance over a three-year period (our KPI) remained strong in 
2018, with 74% of assets outperforming their stated comparator 
(2017: 74%). Five-year investment outperformance was 76% 
(2017: 84%) and the one-year figure was 43% (2017: 70%) as 
significant market movements in the fourth quarter impacted 
short-term performance.

Client investment performance is calculated internally by Schroders to 
give shareholders and financial analysts general guidance on how our 
AUM is performing. The data is aggregated and is intended to provide 
information for comparison to prior reporting periods only. It is not 
intended for clients or potential clients investing in our products. 
Calculations for investment performance are made gross of fees with 
the exception of those for which the stated comparator is a net of fees 
competitor ranking.

When a product’s investment performance is discussed or shared 
with a client or potential client, it is specific to the strategy or product. 
For clients introduced through our Intermediary sales channel, 
performance will be shown net of fees at the relevant fund share-class 
level, while for institutional clients it will typically be shown gross of 
fees with a fee schedule for the strategy supplied. We actively monitor 
the performance of our individual products against their stated 
objectives. Further information about the calculation of investment 
performance is provided in the glossary on pages 178 to 179.

£bn

1 January 2018

Gross inflows

Gross outflows

Net flows

Acquisitions or disposals

Investment returns*

31 December 2018

Institutional

Intermediary

Asset
Management

Wealth
Management

AUM

255.8

36.0

(42.6)

(6.6)

1.6

(8.5)

242.3

134.0

47.4

(52.0)

(4.6)

–

(8.2)

121.2

389.8

83.4

(94.6)

(11.2)

1.6

(16.7)

363.5

45.9

7.1

(5.4)

1.7

(1.0)

(2.9)

43.7

Total

435.7

90.5

(100.0)

(9.5)

0.6

(19.6)

407.2

AUA

11.3

AUMA

447.0

14.2

421.4

 *

Includes currency movements which increased AUM by around £10.7 billion.

24 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

As we have grown, we have invested in developing our systems and 
processes. These investments include a new front office investment 
platform, as well as further investment in our data platforms and 
wider business infrastructure, including our new London head office. 
These are important strategic investments that provide us with a 
strong foundation for the future growth of the business. 

Business acquisitions resulted in around £10.0 million of increases to 
our costs in 2018. This increase includes the acquisitions made this 
year, most notably Algonquin, combined with the full-year impact 
from acquisitions made in 2017. As a result, non-compensation costs 
excluding exceptional items increased to £459.4 million 
(2017: £387.3 million). 

Pre-exceptional profit before tax was £761.2 million 
(2017: £800.3 million), a decrease of 5% on the previous year.  
Basic earnings per share before exceptional items decreased to 
215.8 pence (2017: 226.9 pence). 

Exceptional items normally relate principally to acquisitions, including 
amortisation of intangible assets. In 2018, they also included costs 
relating to a targeted cost reduction programme. Further information 
on exceptional items is provided in note 1(b) to the accounts. After 
exceptional items, the profit before tax was £649.9 million 
(2017: £760.2 million) and basic earnings per share was 183.1 pence 
(2017: 215.3 pence).

The Group’s financial performance
Net income before exceptional items was up 3% to £2,123.9 million 
(2017: £2,068.9 million), mainly as a result of increased net operating 
revenue of £2,070.7 million (2017: £2,010.2 million). Net operating 
revenue represents operating revenues earned on the assets we 
manage, net of cost of sales.

The increase in net operating revenue was driven by higher average 
AUM, which was up 6%. The effect of higher AUM was partially offset 
by lower performance fees and net carried interest of £55.0 million 
(2017: £78.4 million). Carried interest mainly arises from our Schroder 
Adveq private equity business and is explained further on page 26. 

Net gains on financial instruments and other income before 
exceptional items decreased slightly to £33.3 million 
(2017: £35.2 million). Other income includes fees we earn on  
AUA within Benchmark Capital, which increased to £7.5 million 
(2017: £6.0 million).

In addition, we have a number of joint ventures and associate 
interests across the world. These include our partnerships with  
Bank of Communications in China and with Axis Bank in India. Joint 
ventures and associates continued to make a good contribution with 
our share of profits of associates and joint ventures before 
exceptional items, generating £19.9 million (2017: £23.5 million) 
of profits.

Our operating expenses excluding exceptional items increased by 7% 
to £1,362.7 million (2017: £1,268.6 million). This represents a ratio of 
total costs to net income of 64%, which is better than our long-term 
KPI target of 65%.

We are a people business and around 66% of our cost base is related 
to compensation. We manage our compensation costs with reference 
to our net income. This allows us to invest in growing the business 
and to reward our people in line with the Group’s performance. 

In 2017, we made changes to our remuneration approach for 
employees deemed to be MRTs under the UCITS or AIFM Directives. 
We increased bonus deferral levels for these employees, to create 
further alignment with clients and shareholders and to meet these 
regulatory requirements. This resulted in an increase in the 
proportion of variable remuneration deferred and created an 
accounting benefit that improved our total compensation ratio by 1% 
in 2017. This accounting benefit has partly unwound in 2018. Despite 
this change and an increase in headcount, we have maintained our 
total compensation ratio at 43%. 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

25

Strategic report 
Business and financial review continued

Asset Management
Asset Management net operating revenue increased 3% to 
£1,788.8 million (2017: £1,743.3 million), including performance  
fees and net carried interest of £54.6 million (2017: £77.5 million).  
Net carried interest of £28.4 million was generated by our private 
assets business. It represents our rights to share in the returns from 
certain investment vehicles when these vehicles have delivered 
specified investment returns for investors.

Certain management directly involved in the relevant business may 
hold interests in the carried interest vehicles that entitle them to 
receive a share of this return. We report the Group’s right to receive 
carried interest net of this third-party share where the right is not 
linked to current employment, with separate disclosures provided 
within the notes to the financial statements. Further information on 
the accounting for carried interest is set out below.

An explanation of carried interest

Carried interest is similar to the performance fees we earn on 
our core business, but is part of private asset and alternative fee 
structures. We receive carried interest over a longer timeframe 
compared with the typical one year for performance fees. As 
with performance fees, carried interest is earned once clients 
have received their original capital investment and preferred 
return. Once we have achieved the preferred return for clients, 
there is normally a catch-up phase where returns are allocated 
fully to the carried interest holder until the total returns are split 
in accordance with the agreed proportions. For Schroder Adveq, 
this is typically 90/10 in favour of the clients with subsequent 
returns normally shared in the same proportion. We generally 
only receive carried interest distributions from the vehicle once 
clients have received their original capital investment and their 
preferred return, which can only occur following the realisation 
of a portion of the underlying investments.

In accordance with the accounting rules, we accrue for carried 
interest as it is earned but normally before it becomes 
receivable. We determine our accrued right to income based on 
an estimate of the amount of carried interest that we expect to 
receive over the life of the vehicles. This assessment requires us 
to estimate the returns that will crystallise when the underlying 
investments are sold and the preferred return is paid to 
investors based on the expected timing of distributions. We only 

recognise carried interest when we believe there is a low 
probability of a significant risk of reversal, which is an accounting 
requirement. This means that we do not recognise carried 
interest until the latter part of the relevant vehicle’s life, which 
normally means it is in the distribution phase. We recognise a 
financial liability where we share carried interest with 
management and others involved in the development of the 
business, including the former owners. Carried interest payable 
is determined on a similar basis but, based on accounting rules, 
there are lower thresholds to record the charge, which means 
that we generally recognise a third-party interest in carried 
interest as an expense earlier than the related income.

We have rights to receive carried interest from 74 investment 
vehicles. The relevant investment vehicles have a weighted 
average age of approximately 10 years and would typically be 
liquidated after a period of around 15 years. 

The chart below illustrates how returns are allocated on the  
basis that the fund has not yet made any distributions to 
investors and that the preferred return continues to grow. 
The preferred return and catch-up will stop growing when these 
distributions are made.

n
r
u
t
e
r

l

a
t
o
T

n
r
u
t
e
r
d
e
r
r
e
f
e
r
P

l

)
”
e
d
r
u
h
”
(

 – Rights to carried interest arise once a preferred return has 

been achieved for investors

 – Once the preferred return has been achieved a catch-up 
phase arises, during which we receive all the investment 
returns until the total returns are split in accordance with 
the investment agreement

 – After the catch-up phase, returns are shared in accordance 

with the investment agreement

 – A proportion of our carried interest is shared with relevant 
employees and others who have been directly involved in 
developing the relevant business and is recognised as a 
financial liability

The accounting policies for carried interest receivable and 
payable are set out in note 2 of the financial statements.

n
r
u
t
e
R

Year

Investor return

Catch-up phase

Shared return

26 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

 
 
 
Assets under management (£407.2bn)

Institutional (£242.3bn)1

Excluding performance fees and net carried interest, the net 
operating revenue margin on average AUM was 45 basis points 
(2017: 45 basis points). This was in line with our expectations as 
external fee pressures were largely offset by the positive effect of 
changes in business mix, including our growth in private assets and 
alternatives and the impact of market movements.

In our Institutional sales channel, the net operating revenue margin 
was slightly lower than 2017 at 31 basis points (2017: 32 basis points), 
with growth in higher margin private assets and alternatives products 
and positive investment returns only partially offsetting outflows from 
equity strategies and the impact of market-wide pricing pressures. 
There were £25.5 million of performance fees (2017: £57.6 million) 
and £28.4 million of net carried interest (2017: nil).

The net operating revenue margin for the Intermediary sales channel, 
before performance fees, remained unchanged at 72 basis points in 
2018 (2017: 72 basis points). We generated £0.7 million of 
performance fees (2017: £19.9 million).

Total Asset Management net income increased by 2% to 
£1,801.2 million (2017: £1,757.9 million), which includes £15.7 million 
of income from our share of profits from joint ventures and associates 
(2017: £20.8 million).

UK
Asia Pacific
Europe, Middle East and Africa
Americas

Operating expenses before exceptional items within the  
Asset Management segment increased to £1,130.4 million 
(2017: £1,052.0 million) as we continued to grow the business. 
Non-compensation costs increased in line with business growth, and 
as we continued to make strategic acquisitions and investments in 
technology and infrastructure to support the future growth of the 
business. In particular, in 2018 we completed the implementation of 
our new front office technology platform and moved into our new 
headquarters in London at 1 London Wall Place. We continue to invest 
in technology, which is a strategic priority as set out in the Group 
Chief Executive’s review from page 6. 

Profit before tax and exceptional items decreased by 5% to 
£670.8 million (2017: £705.9 million). There were exceptional  
items of £82.6 million. These typically relate to acquisitions including 
amortisation of acquired intangible assets but this year also  
include £55.6 million relating to the cost reduction programme.  
After exceptional items, profit before tax decreased  
to £588.2 million (2017: £688.7 million).

Intermediary (£121.2bn)1

UK
Asia Pacific
Europe, Middle East and Africa
Americas

39%
24%
17%
20%

26%
27%
35%
12%

Wealth Management clients by portfolio size (£43.7bn)

<£1m
£1m – £5m
£5m – £10m
£10m – £25m
£25m – £50m
£50m – £100m
£100m – £250m
>£250m

17%
17%
11%
16%
11%
9%
7%
12%

See more analysis on our AUM on page 3.

1.  By client domicile.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

27

Strategic reportBusiness and financial review continued

Wealth Management
Wealth Management net income increased by 6% to £289.8 million 
(2017: £273.3 million), driven by net operating revenue, which was up 
6% to £281.9 million (2017: £266.9 million).

Net operating revenue within Wealth Management comprises 
management fees, performance fees, transaction fees and net 
banking interest income. Management fees increased by £12.4 million 
to £216.2 million, driven by an increase in average AUM of 5%. There 
were performance fees of £0.4 million (2017: £0.9 million). Transaction 
fees were slightly down from 2017 at £38.5 million (2017: £40.8 million) 
and net banking interest rose to £26.8 million (2017: £21.4 million). 
Net operating revenue margins were unchanged from 2017 at  
61 basis points. 

AUA within the Benchmark Capital business contributed £7.5 million 
to other income (2017: £6.0 million).

Operating expenses before exceptional items were £196.4 million,  
up 7% (2017: £183.0 million). The increase was mainly driven by the 
investments we have made in our wealth management systems and 
infrastructure and as we have grown the business. 

Profit before tax and exceptional items increased 3% to £93.4 million 
(2017: £90.3 million). Exceptional items within Wealth Management 
comprise mainly amortisation of acquired intangible assets and other 
costs incurred in relation to acquisitions. After exceptional items, 
profit before tax grew by 1% to £68.0 million (2017: £67.4 million).

Group segment
The Group segment comprises central management costs, returns  
on investment capital, including income from financial instruments 
and our associate interests in RWC Partners Limited and Schroder 
Ventures Investment Limited, together with net returns from seed 
capital investments after hedging and co-investments arising through 
our private assets businesses.

Net income for the Group segment was £32.9 million 
(2017: £37.7 million). Costs in the Group segment increased by 7% 
to £35.9 million (2017: £33.6 million). This resulted in a loss before 
tax of £3.0 million (2017: profit of £4.1 million). 

Financial strength and liquidity
The Group’s net assets increased by £150.2 million during 2018  
to £3,621.2 million. We generated total comprehensive income of 
£519.5 million (2017: £580.4 million) and distributed £311.7 million  
to shareholders in the form of the 2017 final and the 2018 interim 
dividends (2017: £267.6 million).

The different forms of business that we conduct affect our total  
assets and liquidity. Certain assets managed on behalf of investors 
are recognised in the consolidated statement of financial position, 
while others are not. The table below sets out how these assets are 
broken down between on-balance sheet assets and others that form 
part of our total AUM.

Within Asset Management, assets that are managed for clients  
are not generally owned by the Group and are not recorded in the 
Consolidated statement of financial position. However, certain clients 
invest through life insurance policies that are managed by the Life 
Company. The assets backing these policies are owned by the Life 
Company and are included in the Consolidated statement of financial 
position along with a matching policyholder liability.

Wealth Management principally provides investment management, 
advisory and banking services. Certain Wealth Management 
subsidiaries provide banking services. These entities are legally 
responsible for the banking assets and liabilities and the relevant 
AUM is therefore included in the consolidated statement of financial 
position. The assets are managed to earn a net interest margin within 
the Wealth Management segment with consideration of the liquidity 
demands that may arise from clients. These assets are not made 
available for general corporate purposes.

Reflecting these structures, the Group’s total assets decreased by 
£2.9 billion to £19.6 billion at 31 December 2018. Excluding those 
assets that form part of AUM, the Group’s total assets increased to 
£5.1 billion (2017: £4.8 billion). Our assets comprise three components 
of investment capital, seed and co-investment capital,  
and other assets.

Total 
£bn

11.3

352.2

363.5

43.7

407.2

Statement of 
financial position 
£bn

Not recorded in 
the Statement of 
financial position 
£bn

–

352.2

352.2

40.5

392.7

11.3

–

11.3

3.2

14.5

0.6

0.5

4.0

5.1

19.6

Life Company

Other Asset Management

Total Asset Management

Wealth Management

Total AUM

Investment capital

Seed and co-investment capital

Other assets

Total Group assets excluding clients’ investments

Total Group assets

28 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Investment capital represents surplus assets held in excess of 
operating requirements. It is managed in accordance with limits set 
by the Board, with the aim of making a low volatility return. The 
Group Capital Committee is responsible for monitoring the 
investment capital portfolio with consideration of potential capital  
and liquidity demands, including dividend distributions.

Dividends
In line with our dividend policy and as pre-exceptional profit after 
tax decreased this year, the Board is recommending a final dividend 
of 79 pence per share. It means a total dividend for the year of 114 
pence per share (2017: 113 pence per share) and represents a 
payout ratio of 53%.

Investment capital is mainly comprised of investment grade corporate 
bonds and investments in our own pooled funds. 

Investment capital reduced by £213 million to £630 million 
(2017: £843 million), largely owing to acquisitions. Capital released 
from the operating businesses was more than offset by dividends 
paid in the year as operating capital was retained to develop our 
offices and the front office technology platforms.

We deploy some of our capital to develop new organic investment 
strategies or co-invest selectively alongside our clients. Our seed  
and co-investment capital increased from £392 million at 
31 December 2017 to £535 million at the end of 2018. 

Other assets increased by £397 million to £3,978 million 
(2017: £3,581 million). This represents assets that support our 
ongoing operating activities.

In 2018, we continued to invest in the future growth of the business 
with a number of acquisitions, the most significant of which was the 
acquisition of Algonquin in May 2018. These acquisitions increased 
goodwill and intangible assets by £95.7 million, before amortisation 
and foreign exchange movements. We have invested in our offices 
both in London and other locations, which increased fixed assets by 
£111.1 million before depreciation. We are also investing in 
technology to support our strategic priorities, including a new front 
office technology platform, which completed this year. These 
investments increased our software assets by £90.8 million before 
amortisation and foreign exchange movements. Finally, we work 
closely with the UK defined benefit (DB) pension scheme trustees, 
who use our asset management capabilities to manage the plan 
assets of the scheme. During 2018, the surplus on our UK DB pension 
scheme decreased by £7.3 million to £155.6 million, principally due to 
market movements at the year end.

The Group’s liquidity and regulatory capital position remains strong 
and further information on this is set out in note 19 of the 
financial statements.

It is our policy to increase dividends 
progressively in line with the trend 
in profitability

It is our policy to increase dividends progressively in line with the 
trend in profitability, having regard to overall Group strategy, capital 
requirements, liquidity and profitability. This approach enables the 
Group to maintain sufficient surplus capital to take advantage of 
future investment opportunities while providing financial security to 
withstand possible risk scenarios and periods of economic downturn. 
We intend to maintain a dividend payout ratio of around 50%. This is 
determined as the total dividend per share in respect of the year, 
divided by the Group’s pre-exceptional basic earnings per share. 

The distributable profits of Schroders plc are £2.8 billion 
(2017: £2.7 billion) and include retained profits of £2.9 billion 
(2017: £2.8 billion). The Group’s ability to pay dividends is, however, 
restricted by the need to hold regulatory capital and to maintain 
sufficient operating capital to support its ongoing business activities. 
Operating capital requirements include co-investments with clients 
and seed capital investments in our funds to support new 
investment strategies.

Circumstances that could adversely impact the Group’s ability to pay 
dividends in line with the policy include a combination of significantly 
increased costs and a prolonged deterioration in markets or 
performance leading to reduced revenues and a consequential 
increase in the ratio of total costs to net income. After deducting the 
regulatory capital requirement and regulatory capital buffer, there 
continues to be sufficient capital to maintain our current dividend 
level for at least three years before taking account of any 
future profits.

Richard Keers
Chief Financial Officer

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

29

Strategic reportThe right culture 
to deliver for our people

Providing opportunities for our people to reach their full potential 
because making waves can be better than riding them

30 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Creating a place people want to work 

Providing a positive, open and collaborative working environment  
for our people is a key part of the value that we deliver to this important 
stakeholder group. We engage with our people to provide rewarding work 
and support development opportunities to ensure they have the chance to 
fulfil their potential. This means that we are well placed to support the 
business and deliver for other stakeholders.

Through our 2018 employee 
opinion survey, 92% of our people 
are proud to be associated with 
Schroders and 86% would 
recommend Schroders as a 
good place to work.

Our people around the world

UK
Asia Pacific
Europe, Middle East and Africa  
Americas

52%
21%
19%
8%

We foster an 
environment of 
innovation, success 
and teamwork.

We strive for 
Excellence
Being good at what we do is a powerful way 
to create value for our clients and secure a 
long-term future for our business.

We work with
Innovation
We challenge how things are done 
and anticipate future opportunities.

Teamwork
Delivering value for our clients takes 
collaboration and a healthy respect for 
individual skills.

We have
Passion
We are realistic about what we can achieve, 
but we are ambitious too and approach 
everything we do with energy and drive.

Integrity
Openness and responsibility fuel our 
long-term client relationships and 
consistently delivering on our promises  
sets us apart.

Our ongoing success is driven by our people. We foster a culture of collaboration and 
inclusion, supporting a talented and diverse workforce. We aim to be the most attractive 
place to work in our industry. To do this we provide an inspiring and meritocratic working 
environment, and prioritise our employees’ health and wellbeing, offering a broad range of 
benefits. We believe job satisfaction goes beyond the day job and encourage our people to 
support the causes and activities that are important to them.

How we engage
We engage with employees across a variety of channels, 
including a UK employee forum, an annual employee 
opinion survey, management briefings, videos, an 
internal magazine and a social intranet. Ian King is the 
designated non-executive Director responsible for 
gathering employee feedback and will attend global 
employee forum meetings to hear directly from 
employees on the issues that concern them.

The value we create
Our people strategy is aimed at developing an agile 
workforce as we continue to attract, retain, develop and 
motivate the right people for our business. Our approach 
is defined in our guiding principles document, which 
outlines our values. 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

31

Strategic reportOur people

An employer of choice

Our people strategy is aimed at making Schroders the best employer in the asset 
management sector by providing our people with a collaborative and innovative working 
environment. We are developing an agile workforce as we continue to attract, retain, 
develop and motivate the right people for our current and future business needs. To 
ensure our people have the best environment to work in, we foster an inclusive culture 
that celebrates diversity.

Our approach to business is enshrined in our guiding principles, 
which we share with our employees and people looking to join our 
business, and includes our values of excellence, innovation, 
teamwork, passion and integrity. Our values are a key part of our 
culture, defining the high standards of behaviour that we expect from 
our people. We recruit people who embody these values and assess 
the performance of our people against them, celebrating those who 
are role models for the behaviours that we encourage.

Diversity of thought
We are committed to fostering an inclusive culture of diversity 
across our global workforce. This is led by our Group Chief Executive. 
Talented people who can understand and embrace different 
perspectives are crucial to our continued success. This means 
attracting, retaining and developing a diverse team regardless of 
age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, religious beliefs 
or other characteristics. We are proud to have been part of the 
inaugural Bloomberg 2019 Equality Index in January 2019, which 
recognises us as a leader in advancing gender equality globally.

In line with our equal opportunities policy, we give fair consideration 
to all employment applications, including from disabled people, 
considering particular aptitudes and abilities. If employees become 
disabled, employment continues wherever possible, with retraining 
given if necessary. For the purposes of training, career development 
and progression, all employees are treated equally as part of our 
commitment to making Schroders an inclusive place to work. More 
on our approach to diversity and inclusion can be found at  
schroders.com/inclusion.

We are proud to have been an accredited London Living Wage 
employer for many years. All of our London-based employees and 
contractors are paid above the London Living Wage.

Gender diversity at 31 December 2018  
(vs. 31 December 2017)

Female

Male

Directors of Schroders plc

As we look to foster an inclusive culture and expand our diverse talent 
pool, we have taken a number of key measures, including:

3 
(3)

8 
(8)

2018

2017

 – Publishing our gender pay gap over the past three years, 

both in the UK and on a global basis

 – Ensuring that our entry level assessment centres are 

gender-balanced

 – Providing training to managers on diversity issues and 

unconscious bias

 – Providing internal and external mentoring programmes 

to encourage diversity

 – Introducing talent programmes to accelerate the development 

of future female leaders

 – Offering maternity and paternity coaching, shared parental 

leave and flexible working policies to help support employees 
with children

We have 12 employee resource groups that thrive across our 
business including gender equality, sexual orientation, disability, 
mental health and multi-cultural groups. They are a key feature 
of our identity as an inclusive place to work. 

We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities and 
combating discrimination. Where possible, we monitor the ethnicity, 
age and gender composition of our workforce and those applying 
for jobs.

We were among the first signatories to the 2016 Women in Finance 
Charter. We achieved our initial target of 30% women within senior 
management during the first quarter of 2017 and are now targeting 
33% by the end of 2019. At the end of 2018, we had reached 32%. 
More information on female representation and our gender pay 
gap can be found on page 78.

32 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Senior managers1

263 
(238) 

549 
(580)

2018

2017

Subsidiary directors2

30 
(9) 

84 
(37)

2018

2017

Total senior management

293 
(247) 

633 
(617)

2018

2017

All employees

2,034 
(1,876) 

3,005 
(2,743)

2018

2017

1.  Senior managers excludes the executive Directors of Schroders plc and 

includes some individuals who are also subsidiary directors.

2.  Subsidiary directors comprises directors of subsidiaries who are not classified 

above as senior managers or Directors of Schroders plc.

Employee wellbeing
We have a multi-generational workforce and it is vital that our people 
are provided with the support and opportunities they need to 
optimise their health and wellbeing.

As well as being members of several thought leadership networks, we 
provide a comprehensive calendar of wellbeing events for our people 
across five key areas: mind, workplace, body, financial and work-life 
balance. There is also extensive resilience and mental health training 
embedded within our learning and development programmes.

Engaged and highly motivated employees
We listen to our employees and carry out an annual firm-wide 
employee opinion survey. The results demonstrate that our 
employees are engaged with their roles, understand our values and 
believe that we behave responsibly towards our clients.

We recognise that good communication is key to delivering high 
levels of engagement and ensuring that our people understand the 
role they play in delivering our strategic goals is a focus of our regular 
employee communications. We communicate regularly through a 
variety of channels, including management briefings, videos, an 
internal magazine and a social intranet. Annual ‘Inside Schroders Live’ 
employee meetings are held with the Group Chief Executive to discuss 
the progress made by the business and future objectives and 
challenges. Similar events are held across our offices globally.

Employee opinion survey 2018

92%

Employees are 
proud to be 
associated with 
Schroders

86%

Employees would 
recommend 
Schroders as a good  
place to work

High ethical standards
We promote high ethical standards and have a strong culture of 
doing the right thing for our clients, our employees, our shareholders 
and other stakeholders. We have a whistleblowing policy, under 
which employees can raise concerns. A widely publicised 24-hour 
hotline is available for employees to report concerns anonymously. 
Personal securities trading by employees is subject to clearly defined 
internal policies.

Employees are not permitted to solicit or accept any gifts, 
entertainment or inducements that are likely to conflict with their 
duties. We have policies in place and train employees on identifying 
potential tax evasion, anti-money laundering, awareness of terrorist 
financing, anti-bribery, market integrity and data protection. Due 
diligence is undertaken before entering any material new client 
relationship and this is enhanced for higher-risk countries, entities 
or individuals.

Retaining our talented people
We have a highly engaged, experienced and stable workforce, with 
41% of employees having been with the firm for six years or more. 
Overall turnover in 2018 was 12% (2017: 9%). We focus on retaining 
our most talented employees and our retention of high-performing 
employees remains high, at 94% (2017: 94%).

As part of our focus on developing talent, 27% of open roles across 
the business globally were filled internally, an increase on previous 
years. This helps us to provide our employees with the opportunities 
and experience they need to achieve their full potential. 

In 2018, we launched Spark – a dedicated global learning 
management platform offering an extensive range of digital learning 
content. This was a significant investment in developing the 
knowledge, skills and capabilities of our people to keep up with a 
changing world. Spark provides our people with a one-stop-shop for 
hours of ‘just in time’ structured learning. It includes a broad range of 
learning preferences to cater to all learning styles and an instantly 
accessible and consistent learning experience for everyone.

As part of the Investment 2020 and apprenticeship programmes, 
Schroders provides opportunities for school leavers and graduates 
across the business, with a particular focus on social mobility. A little 
less than half of our 2017 trainees progressed on to other roles in 
Schroders after their traineeship and the majority of those that did 
not stay with the business took up places at university. 

Competitive remuneration that reflects the performance of each 
employee and of the firm is important in retaining our people. 
Our approach is explained in the Remuneration report on pages 
68 to 90.

Employee length of service

  <4 years 
  4 years to <6 years 
  6 years to <10 years
  >10 years 

46%
13%
18%
23%

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

33

Strategic report 
The right principles  
to deliver for society

Delivering a more sustainable world for society 
because we have a responsibility to improve futures for those around us

34 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Driving high levels of corporate responsibility 

As a FTSE 100-listed business with a global footprint, we have an important 
responsibility to contribute to the communities around us, both through our 
actions as a corporate and our ability to influence the companies that we invest in.

ESG engagements

Volunteer hours

Charitable donations

2,200

(2017: 1,014)

1,566

(2017: 1,000)

£2.1m

(2017: £2.0 million)

Where to find more information
The table below sets out where stakeholders can find more information that relates to non-financial matters, as required under the new 
Non-Financial Reporting Directive requirements.

Reporting requirements

Policies and standards which govern our approach1

Due diligence, outcomes and additional information

Page number

Environmental  
matters

Employees

Human rights

Social matters

Anti-bribery and 
anti-corruption

Environmental, social and governance policy
Statement of compliance with UN Principles for 
Responsible Investment

Our approach to corporate responsibility
ESG engagements
Climate change and the environment

Guiding principles and values
Directors’ remuneration policy
Policy on Board diversity
Group health and safety policy
Group malus and clawback policy
Internal HR policies include: equal opportunities policy, 
flexible working policy, parents and family leave policy, 
mental health and wellbeing policy, trans inclusion policy

Retention of key talent
Creating a place people want to work
Gender diversity
Employee opinion survey highlights
Employee length of service
Board diversity
Remuneration report

Slavery and human trafficking statement
Supplier code of conduct 
Personal data policy
Environmental, social and governance policy
Statement of compliance with UN Principles for 
Responsible Investment

Our approach to corporate responsibility
Human rights
Our suppliers
Our clients

Volunteering policy
Supplier relationship management policy
Environmental, social and governance policy
Statement of compliance with the UK Stewardship Code
Statement of compliance with UN Principles for 
Responsible Investment

Anti-bribery and corruption and inducements policies 
(including gifts and entertainment)
Anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing policy
Group tax strategy and tax evasion policy
Whistleblowing policy

Our approach to corporate responsibility
Our communities
Charitable giving
Our clients
The environment
Our approach to tax

Key risks and mitigations
Process risk
Creating a place people want to work

Additional information

Key risks and mitigations 
Description of key risks

Business model

Non-financial indicators

1  Certain policies, standards and guidelines are not published externally.

We recognise that we have an important role to play in the wider economy. We work with and 
invest in companies across the world, promoting growth across a range of sectors. We focus on 
driving high levels of corporate responsibility, governance and sustainability. We are proud to 
be playing a part in improving futures for the communities we call home.

How we engage
We engage with our stakeholders on a range of 
environmental, social, governance, economic and ethical 
issues. This reinforces our commitment to act 
responsibly and contribute to society.

The value we create
We believe that taking a sustainable approach is key to 
managing current social and environmental challenges. 
We focus on identifying well-managed businesses, 
understanding their risks and opportunities, and actively 
engaging to improve behaviours and governance.

34-39
36-37
37-38

33
30-33
32
33
33
61 
68

34-39
36
36
36-37

34-39
36
36
36-37
38
38-39

40-47
45
30-33

40-47 
44-46

18-19

16-17

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

35

Strategic reportOur impact on society

Committed to building 
future prosperity

We recognise the responsibility we have to our key stakeholder groups, including  
society as a whole. We believe that demanding high levels of corporate responsibility  
is the right thing to do for a principle-led business like Schroders. We engage with our 
stakeholders on a range of environmental, social, governance, economic and ethical  
issues. This forms the basis of our corporate responsibility strategy, which has continued  
to evolve throughout the year, reinforcing our commitment to act responsibly and 
contribute positively to society.

In 2018, our impact and commitment across a number of these areas 
has been demonstrated through work with our communities, our 
clients and the environment. Following a review of the UN’s 2030 
Agenda in 2017, we are supportive of the aims of the 17 Sustainable 
Development Goals, which represent a comprehensive agenda for 
addressing the world’s societal challenges.

Our communities
In 2018, we continued to focus on how our business can play a part in 
improving futures within the communities that we call home. It is with 
this perspective on our activities that we renewed our focus on social 
mobility and financial education. 

We continued our partnerships with both the Social Mobility 
Foundation and disability charity ‘my AFK’, delivering two successful 
‘Futures Days’ and providing work placements across our business. 
These provided insight into the asset management industry and the 
world of work for high-achieving students from low income 
backgrounds and young adults with physical or learning disabilities. 

To complement our strong, long-term secondary school partnership 
with Mossbourne Community Academy, we joined forces with 
Moreland Primary to extend our impact to younger pupils. We also 
collaborated with educational charity, Guy Fox History Project Limited. 
A number of Schroders employees volunteered to work with pupils at 
Moreland Primary to create a children’s book on asset management.

We also added a number of new partnerships and initiatives this year 
in support of this focus on improving futures. This included an 
initiative with Stemettes, a social enterprise that works to inspire and 
support young women in Science, Technology, Engineering and 
Maths careers. As a founding member of the KickStart Money project, 
we continue to support financial education workshops delivered 
across the UK and have recently partnered with TeachFirst, which will 
allow us to roll out a number of education-focused initiatives in 2019.

In the US, we have been partners of READ Alliance, a charity which 
offers one-to-one reading to underprivileged children, for more than 
a decade.

Human rights
Respect for human rights is fundamental to contributing properly to 
society and lies at the heart of the responsibility we have towards our 
stakeholders. Our business model is designed to comply with applicable 
human rights legislation in the countries in which we operate.

We are strongly opposed to slavery and human trafficking in any form 
and we actively manage our supply chain to ensure that our zero 
tolerance approach to human rights abuses is maintained and we 
have specific training for everybody involved in managing our 
suppliers. While our business is undertaken predominantly in 
countries with a clear commitment in this area and the majority of our 
suppliers are headquartered in low-risk countries, we have additional 
due diligence procedures in place where the risk is higher. More 
information can be found in our Slavery and Human Trafficking 
statement at schroders.com/slavery.

As a responsible investor we include human rights assessments in  
our evaluation of companies from a sustainability perspective. This 
includes specific modern slavery assessments across our holdings  
in high-risk sectors.

36 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Our suppliers
We rely on the use of external service providers to supplement our 
own infrastructure. This enables us to benefit from their expertise or 
specialist skills, as well as accessing lower costs for service delivery.

We engage pro-actively with our external service providers and have  
a Supplier Code of Conduct, which sets out the high standards and 
behaviours that we expect from them. This requires that the 
prohibition of forced labour and human trafficking, together  
with the ethical and responsible sourcing of goods or services, 
are incorporated into their processes.

Our Audit and Risk Committee reviews our material supplier 
relationships annually to confirm that our approach remains 
consistent and adds value to supplement our own infrastructure.

As signatories to the UK’s Prompt Payment Code, we are committed 
to the principles regarding treatment of suppliers, which include 
paying suppliers on time, providing clear guidance on terms with  
our suppliers and encouraging our suppliers to adopt the code.

Charitable giving
We are proud to support the communities in which we operate and 
actively encourage our employees to do the same. We have a long 
history of positively contributing to local communities through 
monetary donations and employee time. In 2018, we donated 
£2.1 million to charitable causes around the world (2017: £2.0 million), 
£447,000 of which was outside the UK (2017: £783,000). Our charitable 
giving continues to focus on employee-led giving, supporting our 
employees in charitable endeavours through a number of different 
matching schemes. In the UK, 29% of our employees give through 
Give As You Earn (2017: 29%), which saw £670,000 donated by 
employees before the contributions were matched by Schroders.  
We received the Payroll Giving Quality Mark Diamond Award for the 
scheme. More than £307,000 was raised through our fundraising  
and time matching schemes.

In addition to financial donations, we have provided gifts in kind, 
organised frequent charitable collections and encouraged our 
employees to share their knowledge, skills and capabilities with 
charitable organisations through volunteering. To support our 
employees giving back to communities, we offer time matching for 
volunteering hours completed outside of working hours, and up to  
15 hours of volunteering leave a year. Last year, employees globally 
volunteered 1,566 working hours.

Our clients
Social and environmental change is happening faster than ever. 
Climate change, shifting demographics and the technology revolution 
are reshaping the world around us. We believe that companies that 
can adapt and thrive will be more successful in attracting customers, 
employees and growing their business.

As active managers of our clients’ money, we have a responsibility to 
identify and invest in those companies that have a sustainable future 
ahead of them. For fund managers navigating this backdrop, 
consistently delivering positive investment outcomes can be 
challenging. A forward-looking, active investment approach is 
needed to understand the impact of these forces. 

Charitable giving around the world

UK
27 employees ran the London Marathon, raising 
more than £80,000 for various employee-
nominated charities 

US
Celebrated our 10-
year anniversary  
supporting READ Alliance,  
a charity that offers 
one-to-one reading to 
underprivileged children

Germany
Volunteered with a charity 
that provides clean water 
and education to people 
in Ghana

Bermuda
Sponsored the Bermuda Amateur 
Swimming Association for the sixth year 
running which aims to inspire and enable 
the community to have access to aquatics

Switzerland
Partnered with the 
Special Olympics for 
more than 13 years, the 
world’s largest sports 
organisation for children 
and adults with 
intellectual disabilities

Hong Kong
Hiked through Tai Lam 
Country Park for Hike for 
Hospice, a local charity 
supporting end-of-life patients

Singapore
Joined forces with a local soup kitchen, 
Willing Hearts, who deliver 5,000 meals daily 
to underprivileged people in Singapore

This means understanding how a company interacts with society and 
its environment, as well as analysing its profit lines. We have a team 
of investment professionals who apply experience and knowledge to 
specific situations and help to manage the risks.

Our commitment to integrating ESG factors into our investment 
process began in 1998. We now have a team of 15 people working 
with our investment teams across asset classes and geographies.  
ESG factors are integrated in our core investment processes and we 
are launching new funds designed to meet client demand for a more 
sustainable investment approach.

Stewardship
At Schroders, we believe that we are owners – rather than renters – of 
capital. Effective and responsible active ownership has long been part 
of our fundamental approach to investment.

We recognise that companies play a critical role in shaping futures  
for societies and the environment. It is essential to question and 
challenge companies about issues that we perceive may affect their 
value. As such, we actively exercise voting powers and engage with 
companies on issues such as strategy, risk, performance 
and governance.

Through our engagement, we can improve our understanding of the 
issues companies face and influence their actions, helping to protect 
or enhance the value of our investments. The overriding principle 
governing our approach to voting is to act in the best interests of our 
clients. Where proposals are not consistent with the interests of our 
clients, we are not afraid to vote against resolutions.

In 2018, we carried out more than 2,200 ESG engagements across 
more than 50 countries. We have addressed a wide range of issues 
ranging from climate change to human capital management and 
shareholder rights. We voted at more than 5,200 company 
AGMs around the world and instructed a vote against at least 
one resolution at 48% of meetings.

In 2017, we were ranked as the top European Asset Manager for 
Responsible Investment performance by ShareAction. In 2018, we 
received a UNPRI A+ ranking for our responsible investment principles.

We are a founding signatory of the ‘Climate Action 100+’ initiative, a 
five-year collaborative engagement project to engage more than 100 
of the world’s largest corporate greenhouse gas emitters to improve 
governance on climate change, curb emissions and strengthen 
climate-related financial disclosures.

As well as our quarterly and annual reports, we regularly publish 
thematic research and our monthly voting records at  
schroders.com/sustainability.

Climate change
We believe that climate change will be a defining driver of the global 
economy, society and financial markets over the coming years, 
decades and beyond. Whether the global economy is rebuilt on 
less carbon intensive foundations or the temperature continues 
to escalate, investors will be unable to avoid its impacts.

Addressing climate change will require co-operation across a wide 
range of stakeholder groups, including clients, companies and 
policy makers.

We are committed to reporting in accordance with the Task Force 
on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) recommendations 
and have also signed up to a Global Investor Statement on Climate 
Change. The task force is committed to taking steps towards a low 
carbon and climate resilient investment approach.

In 2018, we had more than 200 company engagements focused 
on climate change covering topics such as carbon emissions, carbon 
reduction targets, physical risks and analysis and disclosure in line 
with TCFD recommendations. We also voted on 37 climate-related 
shareholder resolutions. Our latest climate change research and 
insights can be found at schroders.com/climatechange.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

37

Strategic reportOur impact on society continued

The environment
We aim to minimise the impact that our own business has on the 
environment. We constantly review opportunities to minimise the 
environmental impact of our operations and to deliver continuous 
improvements in our environmental performance.

Since 2015, we have established minimum targets for sourcing 
our global electricity supply from renewable sources, targeting 60%. 
In 2018, we signed up to the Climate Group and Carbon Disclosure 
Project (CDP)’s RE100 initiative, which brings together more than 
100 businesses globally. As part of this commitment, we are aiming 
to increase our use of renewable energy to 75% by 2020 and 100% 
by 2025. By the end of 2018, we had reached a total of 65% of our 
energy being supplied from renewable sources globally and we 
anticipate our membership of RE100 will help us towards our 
final goal.

We continue to participate in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index and 
the CDP climate change program and have demonstrated a continual 
reduction of our electricity consumption, achieving the Carbon Saver 
Gold standard for the past 11 years.

We use DEFRA’s conversion factors to calculate our CO2e emissions for 
all consumption apart from overseas electricity, for which we use the 
International Energy Agency’s conversion factors as recommended 
by DEFRA. Our data has been verified and further information is 
disclosed in our CDP submission. Our total carbon output in 2018 has 
increased by 17%. This was largely due to one-off activities relating to 
the move of our UK headquarters and should decrease in future 
years. For the last four years, we have used the internationally 
accepted GHG Protocol Corporate Standard for reporting. 

In 2018, we moved to our new UK headquarters at 1 London Wall 
Place. This move has allowed us to co-locate the majority of our 
London-based employees under one roof. The office provided the 
opportunity to introduce a number of significant sustainable 
initiatives, including:

 – environmental controls to give the highest level of comfort

 – occupancy and daylight sensing lighting

 – removal of single use plastic from catering services

 – reduction in print wastage through follow me print services

 – introduction of electronic tools that reduce paper storage 

requirements

 – urban biodiversity that attracts bees, butterflies, other insects  

and birds

 – district heating connection

 – grey water capture for reuse in WCs

 – kitchen cool room heat recovery to aid hot water production

Our relationships with regulators
As a global business, we aim to build positive relationships with our 
regulators around the world. Regulators provide important oversight 
of how we run our business. Our clients’ interests are best served 
when we work constructively with our regulators.

We regularly engage with regulators and policymakers to ensure that 
our business understands and contributes to evolving regulatory 
requirements. Senior management hold regular meetings with 
regulators to foster healthy working relationships. 

We also report regularly to the Board and the Audit and Risk 
Committee on engagement with regulators, and how changes in 
regulatory regimes may impact our business processes and 
procedures. In 2018, these reports included the implementation  
of GDPR, MiFID II, PRIIPs and the impact of Brexit.

Our approach to tax
We aim to comply with both the spirit and letter of the law and are 
committed to conducting our tax affairs in an open and transparent way.

This means that we comply with our tax filing, reporting and payment 
obligations globally. We also seek to maintain good relationships with 
the tax authorities in the jurisdictions in which we operate. This may 
take the form of discussing key developments in our business and the 
potential impact of those developments on the amount of tax we pay.

From time to time, our views on the appropriate tax treatment in any 
given situation may differ from those of the tax authorities. Where 
this occurs, we work constructively and pro-actively to achieve an 
early resolution. We comply with the UK’s Code of Practice on 
Taxation for Banks and are treated as ‘low risk’ by HM Revenue 
& Customs.

We believe it is important that businesses behave responsibly and 
build trust within society regarding their role and contribution on tax. 
With this in mind, we support initiatives to improve international 
transparency on taxation matters, including the Organisation for 
Economic Co-operation and Development measures on country-by-
country reporting and automatic exchange of information.

Total CO2e emissions (tonnes)
18,258
CO2e emissions per employee (tonnes)

CO2e emissions per employee (tonnes)
3.7
CO2e emissions per employee (tonnes)

2015

539

6,495

12,798

19,833

2016

688

5,625

10,898

2017

638

4,702

10,215

17,211

15,555

2018

621

5,092

12,545

18,258

2015

2016

2017

2018

 Scope 1: Natural gas, oil and company own vehicles
 Scope 2: Electricity
 Scope 3: Business travel

5.5

4.4

3.4

3.7

38 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Corporate awards

Armed Forces 
Covenant 
Silver Award 

European 
Fund Trophy 
Best Asset 
Management Firm 

Option Finance 
Most Dynamic Foreign 
Asset Manager of 
the Year

Investment Europe
Fund Manager of 
the Year 

Fitch Ratings 
Investment 
Management Quality 
Rating: Excellent  

Pensions 
& Investments 
Best places to work 
2018 (North America)

Our tax strategy, available at schroders.com/taxstrategy, sets out our 
approach to tax matters across the Group more generally. This strategy 
is reviewed and approved annually by the Audit and Risk Committee.

Taxes borne
Taxes borne include corporate income tax on the profits arising in 
each country, indirect taxes such as value added tax on our expenses 
and payroll taxes on our employees’ remuneration.

The total tax borne by the Group in 2018 was £253.1 million 
(2017: £250.4 million).

Taxes collected
Companies also have an important role in collecting and 
administering taxes on behalf of governments, where the cost of tax 
is borne by others. This includes income tax and social security 
payments deducted from our employees’ remuneration and indirect 
taxes charged to our clients. These are taxes paid in addition to the 
taxes we incur as a business, which are referred to above.

The total tax collected in 2018 was £223.0 million 
(2017: £238.4 million).

The combined taxes borne by us as a business and the amounts 
collected by us on behalf of tax authorities in 2018 were £476.1 million 
(2017: £488.8 million). 

Further information on taxes borne and collected can be found at 
schroders.com/taxtransparency.

Memberships

working families 
We are a member of 
working families, the  
UK’s leading work-life 
balance organisation

Business Disability Forum  
We are a member of The 
Disability Forum

OUTstanding 
We are a member of 
OUTstanding, the 
professional network for 
LGBT+ executives and 
future leaders and 
their allies

Cityparents 
We are a member of 
Cityparents – a network for 
city professionals who have 
shared interest in balancing 
home/family life with a 
progressive career

City Mental 
Health Alliance 
We are a member of the 
City Mental Health  
Alliance (CMHA).

Armed Forces Covenant
Signatory of the promise 
that those who serve or 
have served, and their 
families, are treated fairly

Business in the Community 
Member of the Prince of Wales’ 
Responsible Business Network, 
a unique group of leading 
companies committed to 
acting responsibly 

Heart of the City 
We are a member of the 
Heart of the City’s 
alumni programme

London 
Benchmarking Group
We are a member  
of the London 
Benchmarking Group

Carbon Disclosure Project
We participate in the 
Carbon Disclosure Project 
(CDP) climate 
change programme

Stonewall
We are members of 
Stonewall’s Diversity 
Champions programme

Diversity Project
We are members of the 
Investment Association’s 
Diversity Project

The Lord Mayor’s Appeal
We are a founding patron of 
the Lord Mayor’s Appeal

CAF  
We received the Payroll 
Giving Quality Mark 
Diamond Award

London Women’s Forum 
We are members and one 
of our employees is on the 
board for the London 
Women’s Forum

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 
Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

39
39

Strategic reportKey risks and mitigations

Risk management culture focused 
on integrity and good conduct

We are exposed to a variety of risks as a result of our business activities. 
Effective risk management is a core competence and we actively 
monitor the potential impact of current and emerging risks. We place 
significant focus on the integrity and good conduct of employees and 
doing the right thing for our stakeholders. Our risk management 
framework is underpinned by a strong control culture with clear 
oversight responsibilities. 

Managing risk
The Board is accountable for risk and oversight of the risk 
management process. It assesses the most significant risks facing the 
business and also uses quantitative exposure measures, such as 
stress tests, where appropriate to understand the potential impact on 
the business. Non-executive oversight of the risk management 
process with respect to standards of integrity, risk management and 
internal control is exercised through the Audit and Risk Committee, 
more details of which are on page 62.

It is the responsibility of all employees to uphold the control culture  
of Schroders. We embed risk management within all areas of the 
business at a Group and legal entity level. The Group Chief Executive 
and Group Management Committee (GMC), as the principal executive 
committee, have responsibility for regularly reviewing the key risks we 
face. This includes ensuring that their respective business areas in all 
legal entities are monitoring and reporting relevant risks and controls. 
They are also responsible for monitoring individual behaviours, 
ensuring that they mirror the culture and core values of the business.

The executive oversight of risk is delegated by the Group Chief 
Executive to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO). The CFO has 
responsibility for the risk and control framework of the Group. 
Independent monitoring and reporting of risks and controls at a 
Group and legal entity level is supported by the Group Head of Risk.

The CFO chairs the Group Risk Committee (GRC), which meets ten 
times a year. The GRC supports the CFO and the GMC in discharging 
their risk management responsibilities. The committee is attended by 
the heads of the control functions (Group Risk, Compliance, Legal and 
Internal Audit) along with chief operating officers from across the 
business and senior managers from Distribution, Product and Wealth 
Management. Other GMC members regularly attend. The GRC reviews 
and monitors the adequacy and effectiveness of the Group’s risk 
management framework, including relevant policies and limits. It also 
reviews trends and current exposures to our key risks and considers 
issues as they arise. The GRC and the Wealth Management Audit and 
Risk Committee (WMARC), details of which are on page 62, receive 
reports relating to the risk profile of Wealth Management.

Our Business Issues and Conflicts Committee supports the GRC and 
GMC in identifying and managing conflicts that may arise from time to 
time in our diversified business.

Lines of defence
The first line of defence against undesirable outcomes is the  
business functions themselves and the line managers across Asset 
Management, Wealth Management and Infrastructure. Heads of each 
business area take the lead role with respect to identifying potential 
risks in their area and implementing and maintaining appropriate 
controls to manage these risks.

Line management is supplemented by the control and oversight 
functions, including Group Risk, Compliance, Legal, Governance, 
Finance, Tax and Human Resources, which constitute the second line 
of defence. The compliance monitoring programme reviews the 
effective operation of relevant key processes against 
regulatory requirements.

Internal Audit provides retrospective, independent assurance over the 
operation of controls and forms the third line of defence. The internal 
audit programme includes reviews of risk management processes and 
recommendations to improve the control environment, supplemented 
by external assurance from the Group’s auditors. The team also 
carries out thematic compliance monitoring work.

Lines of defence
Overview

External independent assurance

Group 
Risk
Committee

Group 
Management 
Committee

Audit 
and Risk 
Committee

Three lines of defence

3rd line: Internal 
independent assurance

2nd line: Control and 
oversight functions

1st line: Business 
operations and support

We maintain comprehensive insurance cover with a broad range 
of policies covering a number of insurable events.

40 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

2018 developments
Management of our key risks has remained a priority throughout 
2018. In particular, we have focused on embedding our risk 
framework within the businesses we have acquired and new business 
relationships we have established. We have also managed the risks 
involved in transitioning to our new front office technology platform.

Specific initiatives were undertaken that covered a wide range 
of activities across the Group and are covered below: 

 – Group Risk has been actively and extensively engaged in the 

implementation of our strategic projects: notably our new front 
office technology platform, our move to a new London 
headquarters, transition to S3 (a new virtual desktop technology) 
and in establishing material new business relationships with Lloyds 
Banking Group.

 – Our Operational Risk teams have supported the implementation  
of our new front office technology platform across each of our 
global locations, so that risks are clearly assessed, understood and 
controlled by management. Where necessary, action plans to 
mitigate risk were formulated and put into action.

 – The design and implementation of our new front office technology 
platform has improved our capabilities in the management and 
oversight of investment risk. It has provided a broad suite of 
integrated metrics that can be monitored centrally on a more 
frequent basis. Group Risk deployed portfolio-level stress testing 
across our client mandates and funds, which allows us to develop a 
better understanding of how our client portfolios perform under 
adverse market conditions relative to their portfolio objectives.

Risk and control assessment process

 – A number of thematic investment risk reviews were conducted to 
support the oversight and challenge of risk taking. These included 
themes such as consideration of active risk levels, performance 
relative to benchmarks and fund liquidity. 

 – As an integral part of the corporate investment process, Group Risk 
worked alongside business teams performing due diligence on 
opportunities to assess the risks.

 – Group Risk has worked to integrate the risk framework across 

new business areas, including Schroder Adveq, Benchmark Capital 
and Algonquin. This included the deployment of policies, alignment 
of governance and escalation, and reporting across various 
legal entities. 

 – Ongoing monitoring of our risk appetite measures and metrics was 
performed. In certain areas these were enhanced, most notably in 
the ongoing priority of information security, which is overseen by 
our Information Security Risk Oversight Committee.

 – The Audit and Risk Committee reviews a comprehensive dashboard 

of metrics for key risks on a quarterly basis.

 – Further work has been undertaken to assess model risk and to 
manage user-developed tools to reduce risks from changes  
to software. 

 – A new approach was developed to assess the risks when we deploy 

robots as part of our robotics program.

The risk and control assessment (RCA) process continues to be a key 
part of our risk management framework and is summarised in the 
diagram below. In 2018, we completed an upgrade of our technology 
to manage our operational risk framework, including RCAs, issues, 
events and data loss management.

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Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

41

Strategic report 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Key risks and mitigations continued

Viability statement

In accordance with the UK Corporate Governance Code, the 
Directors have carried out a robust assessment of the key 
risks facing the Group and expect that Schroders plc will 
continue to be viable for at least the next five years.

Assessment of prospects
A five-year period to December 2023 is in line with the 
Group’s strategic business planning and forecasting period. 
The Group’s strategic and financial planning process 
includes a detailed review of the business model and key 
planning assumptions. It is led by the Group Chief Executive 
and Chief Financial Officer in conjunction with management 
teams, with the one-year outlook most recently updated in 
March 2019. Notwithstanding the five-year viability horizon, 
the business plan addresses the longer term headwinds that 
the business currently expects to face, to ensure that the 
business model adapts to the changing environment. The 
business plan is based on the Group’s strategy, which is 
summarised on pages 14-15.

Key assumptions underpinning our financial planning 
process include AUMA growth from both markets and net 
new business; changes to net operating revenue margins 
owing to changes in business mix, planned business activity 
and industry-wide margin pressures; and additional costs 
comprising the expected total compensation cost ratio and 
non-compensation costs including those arising from the 
Group’s continued investment in technology, increased 
accommodation costs and costs driven by regulatory  
requirements.

Progress against financial budgets and key objectives are 
reviewed throughout the year by both the Directors and the 
GMC, along with periodic reviews of the capital and 
dividend policies.

Assessment of viability
The assessment of the Group’s viability requires the 
Directors to consider the principal risks that could affect the 
Group, which are outlined on the following pages. The 
Directors review the key risks regularly and consider the 
options available to the Group to mitigate these risks so as 
to ensure the ongoing viability of the Group is sustained. 

Stress testing is performed on the Group’s business plan, 
which considers the impact of a number of the Group’s key 
risks crystallising over the assessment period.

The severe but plausible stress scenario applied to the 
business plan include the following factors which, where 
relevant, use assumptions more severe than the regulatory 
stress scenario required by the Prudential 
Regulation Authority:

 – Outflows of our AUMA, or deterioration in the value of our 

AUMA, as a result of a market downturn, foreign 
exchange movements or poor investment performance;

 – a more severe decline in net operating revenue margins 

reducing projected revenues, together with an increase in 
the ratio of total costs to net income; and

 – the impact of a material operational risk event which 
could lead to reputational damage and outflows of  
our AUMA.

The stress scenarios are consistent with those used in the 
Group’s consolidated Internal Capital Adequacy Assessment 
Process and Internal Liquidity Adequacy Assessment  
Process.

Having reviewed the results of the stress scenario, the 
Directors have concluded that the Group would have 
sufficient capital and liquid resources in the above scenario 
and that the Group’s ongoing viability would be sustained. 
In drawing this conclusion, the business model would be 
able to adapt to the changes in capital and liquid resources. 
The stress scenario assumptions include maintaining the 
Group’s dividend policy but this and other commitments 
would be reassessed if the circumstances determined this to 
be necessary over the longer term. 

It is possible that a stress event could be more severe or 
come sooner and have a greater impact than we have 
determined plausible. Actions are available that may reduce 
the impact of more severe scenarios, but these have not 
been considered in this viability statement.

The Directors’ current, reasonable expectation is that 
Schroders plc will be able to continue in operation, meeting 
its liabilities as they fall due, over a viability horizon of at 
least five years. The Board’s five-year viability and longer-
term assessment is based on information known today.

Key risks
Assessment of key risks
We have identified 22 key risks across strategic, business, operational 
and financial instrument risk categories, as shown on the 
following page.

These risks have been assessed in light of the current environment, 
taking into consideration the views of subject matter experts and risk 
owners within the firm, geo-political risks that may impact our clients, 
market conditions and the ability of our employees to operate in local 
offices around the world. Regulatory sentiment, changes within the 
business and threats with uncertain impact, probability and timeframe 
could impact the Group. We continuously monitor internal and 
external environments to identify new and emerging risks. We then 
analyse each risk and, if needed, develop and apply mitigation and 
management plans.

42 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

The Group determines which key risks it considers to be heightened, 
for example those that are more costly if they materialise. We then 
undertake further work to manage these actively. When considering 
these risks, we also take account of the objectives of regulators 
to ensure market integrity, appropriate consumer protection and 
promotion of competition within the industry. The diagram on the 
following page illustrates the relative likelihood and impact of our 
risks and is an outcome of our assessments.

We remain vigilant in considering the impact of Brexit on our business 
model and have described this further at the end of this section.

Strategic risks

Operational risks

1   Changing investor requirements

10   Conduct and regulatory risk

2   Fee attrition

11   Third-party service provider risk

3   Business model disruption

12   Information security risk

4   Market returns

5   Regulatory landscape change

Business risks

6   Reputational risk

7   Investment performance risk

8   Product risk

13   Process risk

14   Fraud risk

15   Technology risk

16    Legal risk

17   Tax risk

18    People and employment practices risk

9   Business concentration risk

Financial instrument risks*

19   Credit risk

20   Market risk

21   Risk of insufficient capital

22   Liquidity risk

* Financial instrument risks are considered in note 19 of the financial statements.

Risk impact matrix, based on residual risk assessment (after controls)

Reporting on our 
material risks
The diagram below shows our 
key risks. The horizontal axis 
illustrates the impact of a key 
risk if it were to materialise and 
the vertical axis illustrates the 
likelihood of this occurring. The 
scales of each axis are set on a 
relative basis between each risk 
and are based on the 
residual risks.

The risks that we consider to 
have either a higher likelihood 
of impacting the organisation, 
or with a higher likelihood of 
occurring, are shown above the 
diagonal line. Details of how we 
manage our risks are described 
in the tables on the 
following pages.

18

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4

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6

10

7

5

16

12

14

17

19

15

8

20

9

Low

21

22

Medium

Impact

High

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

43

Strategic reportKey risks and mitigations continued

Key risks

Strategic risks

Impact for Schroders: These risks relate to our strategy and the environment in which we operate. The impact of these risks, if not carefully 
managed, is to lower our AUMA and the income we therefore receive. Our business plans seek to address these risks by responding to the 
challenges faced and growing our assets and earnings.

Higher-rated key risks

How we manage this

1   Changing investor requirements

Client requirements are evolving rapidly. Failing to adapt or 
evolve our business model and product range to reflect 
changing investor requirements could lead to a drop in AUMA. 
This includes index-tracking strategies, such as passive funds.

2   Fee attrition

Continued reduction of fees due to the current market 
environment and pricing pressures and a move towards 
vertical integration could impact our revenues.

3   Business model disruption

Our business model could be disrupted by a range of external 
factors including technology advancements, product evolution 
and market participants. Good progress in managing this risk 
has lowered the impact.

4   Market returns

Our income is derived from the assets we manage and 
administer. Falling markets could reduce AUMA and cause a fall 
in revenues.

We have a dedicated Product and Solutions function that focuses 
on developing our product strategy. We continue to expand our 
capabilities into new areas, including private assets, and commit 
seed capital to developing solutions. We carefully manage our cost 
base to reflect our clients’ changing asset allocation requirements.

We are increasing our focus on solutions and outcome-oriented 
strategies and private assets, which diversify our fee income.  
We are also increasingly diversifying our product offering, 
supporting long-term profitability.

We are increasing our effort to deliver efficiencies and insights 
through technology. Digital initiatives are in progress to improve 
client experience, engagement and servicing. We are investing in 
our technology platform to support scalability, agility in our 
product offering and our expanding private assets and 
alternatives businesses.

We have diversified income streams across a range of markets to 
mitigate falling markets in any one area.

Lower-rated key risk

How we manage this

5   Regulatory landscape change

The risk that we do not respond appropriately to regulatory 
changes such as MiFID II, BEAR, GDPR or SM&CR, or other 
events such as Brexit.

Regulatory and legal change is monitored by the Compliance, Legal 
and Public Policy teams. We engage with regulators globally on 
potential or planned regulatory changes and in response to Brexit.

Business risks

Impact for Schroders: In executing our strategy, a number of key risks arise that could impact our ability to attract and retain clients. By 
evolving our product offering and delivering investment performance, we have the best opportunity to be selected by clients when allocating 
assets. A failure to achieve this could lead to a decrease in AUMA.

Higher-rated key risks

6   Reputational risk

How we manage this

This may arise from poor conduct, judgement or risk events  
due to weaknesses in systems or controls. The reputation of 
Schroders can be impacted by any of our key risks.

We consider reputational risks when initiating changes to  
our strategy or operating model and maintain high standards  
of conduct.

7   Investment performance risk

There is a risk that portfolios may not meet their investment 
objectives or that there is a failure to deliver consistent 
performance.

We have clearly defined investment processes designed to meet 
investment targets within stated parameters, which are subject to 
independent review and challenge.

Lower-rated key risks

8   Product risk

How we manage this

There is a risk that our product offering is not suitably 
diversified, or does not provide access to strategies that will 
help investors to meet their objectives.

Our dedicated Product and Solutions function focuses on strategy, 
innovation and changing investor requirements.

9   Business concentration risk

Insufficient diversification in distribution channels, products, 
clients, markets, or income streams could pose a risk to  
our business.

We have a broad range and scale of products, distribution and 
investment channels and our development of strategic relationships 
and acquisitions enables further diversification of income streams.

44 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Operational risks

Impact for Schroders: Operational risks are inherent in all activities and processes. They exist in the normal course of business and are 
heightened when we undertake changes to our organisation. When operational risk events occur, this may affect our clients and our ability  
to serve them. We may be liable for financial losses or fines, which could affect our business performance and may weaken our standing 
with stakeholders.

Higher-rated key risks

How we manage this

10   Conduct and regulatory risk

The risk of inappropriate conduct, conflicts management 
practice or behaviour impacting on client outcomes, or of failing 
to respond appropriately to regulatory changes. 

We promote a strong compliance culture and seek to maintain good
relationships with our regulators. We also encourage appropriate 
conduct via our conduct risk framework and culture assessment, 
supported by compliance monitoring and surveillance programmes.

11   Third-party service provider risk

The risk that suppliers may not meet their agreed service  
level terms.

We have policies in place to govern our approach to appointing, 
managing and reviewing third-party providers.

12   Information security risk1

The risk that our technology is compromised or inadequate, 
resulting in the confidentiality, integrity or availability of our 
data or Schroders’ services being negatively impacted.

Formal governance of information security (cyber) risks exists  
across the three lines of defence and is monitored by the 
Information Security Risk Oversight Committee.

13   Process risk2

The risk of failure of significant business processes, such as 
mandate compliance, client suitability checks, financial crime 
risk management and asset pricing.

Our key business processes are regularly reviewed and the risks 
assessed through the RCA process. When we undertake change, 
such as acquisitions, we assess new processes that may arise.

Lower-rated key risks

14   Fraud risk

How we manage this

Fraud could arise from any attempt to defraud the firm or our 
clients by circumventing our processes and controls. 

Controls are in place, which are assessed as part of the RCA process. 
We have applied particular focus to our payment processes.

15   Technology risk

A change or failure in technology could pose a risk to the 
integrity or availability of the services we offer. 

16   Legal risk

The risk that we, our clients, suppliers or other third parties fail 
to meet or record legal or regulatory obligations. 

Policies and technical standards are deployed, together with robust 
project and change management processes, which cover the 
assessment of business requirements, risk and scalability.

Our policies and procedures consider legal risk as part of their 
design. We have an escalation process for the areas of material risk 
and our Legal function supports our employees and the business.

17   Tax risk

We and the funds we manage are exposed to tax compliance 
and reporting risks, which include the submission of late or 
inaccurate tax returns. We have further reviewed the impact 
and updated our risk position.

Our tax strategy sets out our approach to managing our tax affairs, 
underpinned by a governance framework and supported by the  
Tax function, which works with management and advisers to 
monitor our position and relevant tax changes. 

18   People and employment practices risk

The inability to attract, retain or develop key employees 
to support our business or maintain high standards in 
employment practices. 

We have competitive remuneration and retention plans and 
build depth and strength in our workforce. We have sustainable 
succession and employee development processes and recruit 
selectively through our entry-level and experienced hire 
programmes.

1  Separated from technology risk.
2  Change risk has been removed.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

45

Strategic reportKey risks and mitigations continued

Financial instrument risks

Impact for Schroders: We face market, credit, liquidity and capital risks from the instruments we manage as part of our AUM, as well as those 
arising from holding investments where we act as principal. The impact of financial instrument risks on our business may negatively affect our 
earnings or ability to invest in our business.

Lower-rated key risks

19   Credit risk

How we manage this

Exposure to counterparty risk from clients, principal investment 
holdings and in the assets we manage. Our wealth 
management lending activities also face credit risk exposure.

We assess counterparty creditworthiness and set limits for both 
principal and agency counterparties. In Wealth Management,  
credit risk is monitored and managed against approved limits  
and where collateral is taken.

20   Market risk

Market movements may cause a fall in the value of principal 
investments and a decline in the value of our proprietary assets.

21   Risk of insufficient capital

The risk that the Group is unable to support its strategic 
business objectives due to its minimum regulatory capital 
requirements.

22   Liquidity risk

The inability to meet our contractual or payment obligations in 
a timely manner and, in relation to client portfolios, the inability 
to sell the underlying investments for full value or at all. 

The Group Capital Committee (GCC) regularly reviews all principal 
assets held for investment or seed capital purposes. The Group’s 
seed capital investments are hedged in respect of market risk and 
currency risk, where practical. The Wealth Management Executive 
Committee monitors and manages market risk in the Group’s 
Wealth Management business.

The Group and its legal subsidiaries maintain an appropriate level of 
capital, including a significant buffer over the minimum regulatory 
capital requirements, which allows us to conduct business and 
invest in new business opportunities as they arise.

The GCC reviews the Group’s liquidity needs, considering the current 
liquidity position, future cash flows, regulatory requirements and 
potential stress scenarios. The Wealth Management Executive 
Committee monitors and manages liquidity risk in the Group’s 
banking businesses. We have established processes to assess and 
monitor the liquidity risk profile of funds on an ongoing basis.

46 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Our business model and Brexit

On 29 March 2017, the British government gave notice under 
Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty that the UK would leave the 
European Union (EU) on 29 March 2019. Negotiations continue 
but uncertainty remains and there is a range of possible 
outcomes and timeframes for many aspects of the UK’s exit 
from the EU. 

Uncertainty with respect to the terms on which the UK will 
leave the EU has impacted some of the markets in which we 
invest our clients’ assets. We have taken this into account as 
events have developed over the year, particularly with respect 
to European-invested strategies with a UK weighting, and have 
made adjustments accordingly.

Schroders is well-positioned to manage the challenges that 
arise as a result of Brexit. Our diversified business model and 
significant presence in the EU27 mean that we are well-placed 
to continue to service our clients and grow our business. 

Pages 1 to 47 constitute the strategic report, which was approved 
by the Board on 6 March 2019 and signed on its behalf by:

Peter Harrison
Group Chief Executive 

6 March 2019

We have a long-standing commitment to continental Europe, 
with a substantial presence involving more than 750 
employees across nine offices. In Luxembourg, we have 
around 250 employees in a wide range of functions and from 
there distribute funds across borders within the EU as well as 
more widely around the world. We have also obtained 
additional permissions to ensure we can continue to offer 
services, including segregated mandates, to European 
institutional clients where they wish, or need, to contract with 
an EU27 entity. We delegate portfolio management to a 
number of jurisdictions including the UK and welcomed the 
announcements by the UK and other European regulators that 
they had agreed the necessary cooperation arrangements to 
allow the delegation of portfolio management to the UK 
to continue.

Globally, our two largest fund ranges are in the UK and 
Luxembourg. The UK range is not actively marketed outside 
the UK. Investors in the Luxembourg range are predominantly 
comprised of EU27 and other non-UK investors. The UK 
government has introduced a regime to allow EU27-based 
funds to continue to be offered to clients based in the UK in 
the period immediately after Brexit.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

47

Strategic reportBoard of Directors

Board of Directors

Michael Dobson
Chairman (66)
Appointed Chairman in April 2016, having 
been Chief Executive since November 2001. 
He first joined the Board as a non-executive 
Director in April 2001.

Experience: Prior to joining Schroders he was 
Chief Executive of Morgan Grenfell Group and 
a member of the Board of Managing Directors 
of Deutsche Bank AG.

External appointments: Member of the 
President’s Committee of the Confederation 
of British Industry.

Committee membership: Chairman of the 
Nominations Committee.

Peter Harrison
Group Chief Executive (52)
Appointed Group Chief Executive in April 
2016. He was an executive Director and Head 
of Investment from May 2014.

Experience: He began his career at Schroders 
and subsequently held roles at Newton 
Investment Management, JP Morgan Asset 
Management as Head of Global Equities and 
Multi-Asset and at Deutsche Asset 
Management as Global Chief Investment 
Officer. He was Chairman and Chief Executive 
of RWC Partners before re-joining Schroders 
as Global Head of Equities in March 2013.

External appointments: Chairman of the 
Investment Association, a Director of FCLT 
Global and a member of the Takeover Panel.

Richard Keers
Chief Financial Officer (55)
Appointed a Director and Chief Financial 
Officer in May 2013.

Experience: He is a chartered accountant and 
was a senior audit partner of 
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (PwC) until May 
2013. He became a partner of PwC in 1997 
and has 25 years’ experience in the audits 
of global financial services groups. His 
experience includes time spent in PwC’s New 
York, Sydney, Edinburgh and London offices.

External appointments: Non-executive 
member of Lloyd’s Franchise Board and 
Chairman of its Audit Committee.

Ian King
Senior Independent Director (62)
Appointed Senior Independent Director 
in April 2018 having been a non-executive 
director since January 2017. 

Experience: He was Chief Executive of BAE 
Systems plc from 2008 to 2017 having been 
originally appointed to the BAE board as Chief 
Operating Officer, UK and Rest of the World. 
Prior to this, he was Chief Executive of Alenia 
Marconi Systems. He also served as a 
non-executive Director and Senior 
Independent Director of Rotork plc until 
June 2014.

External appointments: Senior Adviser to the 
Board of Gleacher Shacklock LLP, Chairman of 
Senior plc and lead non-executive Director for 
the Department of Transport.

Committee membership: Member of the 
Nominations and Remuneration Committees.

Robin Buchanan
Independent non-executive 
Director (66)
Appointed in March 2010.

Sir Damon Buffini
Independent non-executive 
Director (56)
Appointed in February 2018.

Experience: He was the Senior Partner of Bain 
& Company Inc. in the UK for 12 years and 
remains a Senior Adviser. Most recently he 
served as Chairman of PageGroup plc until 
December 2015. He was Dean and President 
of London Business School. He is a chartered 
accountant and holds an MBA from Harvard 
Business School. He will retire at the AGM in 
May 2019.

External appointments: Non-executive 
Director of LyondellBasell Industries N.V. He 
is Chairman of the Advisory Board of Access 
Industries and a Director of CICAP Limited.

Committee membership: Member of the 
Nominations, Audit and Risk, and 
Remuneration Committees.

Experience: He has over 25 years’ experience 
in private equity, joining Schroder Ventures 
in 1988. He was Managing Partner of Permira 
from 1997 to 2007 before becoming 
Chairman. He retired in 2015 and remains a 
Senior Adviser. 

External appointments: Chair of the National 
Theatre, Independent Director of the 
European Golf Tour and was Chair of the 
Government’s Patient Capital Review.

Committee membership: Member of the 
Nominations and Remuneration Committees.

48 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Rhian Davies
Independent non-executive 
Director (54)
Appointed in July 2015.

Rakhi Goss-Custard
Independent non-executive 
Director (44)
Appointed in January 2017. 

Experience: She is a chartered accountant 
and was a partner at Electra Partners, an 
independent private equity fund manager, 
until June 2015, and then a Senior Adviser 
until March 2017. She previously worked in 
PwC’s audit and insolvency practice before 
joining Electra in 1992.

Committee membership: Chairman of the 
Audit and Risk Committee. Member of the 
Nominations Committee.

Experience: She is an experienced executive 
in digital retailing, having spent 11 years at 
Amazon. Prior to joining Amazon, she held 
roles at TomTom and in management 
consultancy in the US. 

External appointments: Non-executive 
Director of Kingfisher plc, Rightmove plc, Intu 
Properties plc. She will step down from the 
Board of Intu Properties plc at its Annual 
General Meeting on 3 May 2019.

Committee membership: Member of the 
Nominations and Audit and Risk Committees.

Philip Mallinckrodt
Non-executive Director (56)
Appointed as an executive Director in January 
2009 and a non-executive Director on 
1 March 2017.

Experience: He started his career at Credit 
Suisse First Boston in 1985. He first joined 
Schroders in 1994, and then worked for 
Citigroup from 2000 to 2002. He rejoined 
Schroders in 2002 as Head of Corporate 
Development, was Group Head of Wealth 
Management from 2006 to 2016, and then 
Group Head of Private Assets and Wealth 
Management until 1 March 2017.

External appointments: Non-executive 
Director of The Economist and a member 
of the International Advisory Council of the 
Brookings Institution. 

Committee membership: Member of the 
Nominations Committee.

Nichola Pease
Independent non-executive 
Director (57)
Appointed in September 2012.

Experience: She has over 30 years’ experience 
in the asset management and stock broking 
industries. She was the Chief Executive and 
then Deputy Chairman of J O Hambro Capital 
Management Ltd from 1998 until 2008, 
following which she held a number of roles in 
the charity and public sectors.

External appointments: Co-founder and 
Chair of Investment 2020 and a Member of 
the Eton College Investment Committee.

Committee membership: Chairman of the 
Remuneration Committee. Member of the 
Nominations and Audit and Risk Committees.

Bruno Schroder 
(Died 20 February 2019)
Non-executive Director (86)
Appointed in January 1963. An appreciation 
of Bruno’s life is contained on page 50.

Experience: He was the great-great-grandson 
of John Henry Schroder, co-founder of the 
Schroders businesses in 1804. He joined the 
Schroder Group in London where he worked 
in the Commercial Banking and Corporate 
Finance divisions of J. Henry Schroder Wagg 
& Co Ltd.

External appointments: He was a Director 
of a number of private limited companies.

Committee membership: He was a Member 
of the Nominations Committee.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

49

GovernanceBruno Schroder  
1933 - 2019

We were very saddened to learn that Bruno Schroder, aged 86,  
died on 20 February after a short illness. He leaves behind his wife 
Suzanne and daughter Leonie, along with three grandchildren,  
to whom we send our condolences.

Bruno had a big influence on Schroders. Following National Service in 
the army, Oxford University and Harvard Business School he joined 
the Company in 1960 as an executive. After three years he was 
appointed to the Board in a non-executive capacity. During his 56 
years on the Board, Bruno saw some important strategic shifts 
including the sale of the commercial banking business in the US in 
1985 and of the investment banking business in 2000, allowing the 
Company to focus exclusively on asset and wealth management that 
is Schroders’ business today.

Bruno was passionate about Schroders, unwavering in his support 
and always emphasising the long term over short term 
considerations. This long-term thinking has been key to Schroders’ 
success in putting clients first, in growing the business organically, in 
developing talent and in setting the culture. He believed that, in so 
doing, shareholders would also benefit from the value created. He 
loved to travel to our overseas offices, meeting clients and employees, 
supporting management and reinforcing our values. He felt a strong 
connection to previous generations of the family who had established 
and grown the business as well as to the current generation.

Bruno’s long experience, sound judgement and sense of humour will 
be sorely missed but his legacy and his values live on.

50 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Group Management Committee  
and Company Secretary

Peter Harrison
Group Chief Executive (52)
Responsible for the management of the 
overall business and strategic development 
of the Group. 

Richard Keers
Chief Financial Officer (55)
Responsible for financial management, 
risk management, tax, capital and treasury, 
human resources, corporate services and a 
range of operational areas. He is also chair 
of the Group Risk, Group Capital and Global 
Operations Committees.

Stewart Carmichael
Chief Technology Officer (53)
He joined Schroders in March 2015 as Group 
Head of IT. Prior to joining Schroders, he was 
Chief Technology Officer for JP Morgan 
Corporate and Investment Bank in Asia. From 
1993 to 2008 he held various senior 
leadership positions at Merrill Lynch.

Karl Dasher
CEO North America and Co-Head 
of Fixed Income (49)
He joined Schroders in 2008 as Global Head 
of Product and became Head of Fixed Income 
in October 2008. He previously worked at SEI 
Investments in various investment roles, 
including Chief Investment Officer.

Lieven Debruyne
CEO Asia Pacific (49)
He joined Schroders in London in 2000 as 
Head of Asian Investment Product before 
moving to Hong Kong in 2005. Prior to joining 
Schroders, he worked for Mees Pierson 
Capital Management as Chief Investment 
Officer and for Fortis Investments.

He is responsible for technology across the 
Group’s global operations. 

He is responsible for the Group’s operations 
in North America and is also Co-Head of Fixed 
Income within the Investment division.

He is responsible for the Group’s operations 
in the Asia Pacific region.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

51

GovernanceGroup Management Committee and Company Secretary continued
Group Management Committee and Company Secretary continued

Peter Hall
Global Head of Wealth 
Management (55)
He joined Schroders in January 2019. Over 
the past 20 years, he has held leadership roles 
in Wealth Management at UBS, Barclays 
and Tilney.

He is responsible for the Wealth 
Management division. 

Emma Holden
Global Head of Human Resources (44)
She joined Schroders in 2007 as Head of 
Communications and Investor Relations 
and was appointed Global Head of Human 
Resources in November 2014. Prior to joining 
Schroders, she held various roles at Corus 
Group. She qualified as a chartered 
accountant with PwC in 1998.

Louise Hosking
Chief of Staff (60)
She joined Schroders in 2008 and was 
appointed Chief of Staff in 2016. Prior to 
joining Schroders, she formed the Scott King 
Partnership, an independent business 
consultancy. She has over 35 years’ 
experience in management and business 
consultancy. 

She works with senior management on 
the issues that affect our people and the 
development of talent throughout 
the business.

She is responsible for supporting the Group 
Chief Executive and management team on 
growing the business in the context of culture 
and strategy.

Johanna Kyrklund
Global Head of Multi-Asset 
Investments (42)
She joined Schroders in 2007 as Head of UK 
Multi-Asset and became Global Head of 
Multi-Asset Investments in 2016. She 
previously worked at Insight Investment and 
Deutsche Asset Management in various fund 
management and asset allocation roles. 

She is Head of Multi Asset within the 
Investment division.

Philippe Lespinard
Co-Head of Fixed Income (55)
He joined Schroders in 2010 as Chief 
Investment Officer for Fixed Income. He was 
previously a partner at Brevan Howard and 
Chief Investment Officer at BNP Paribas 
Asset Management.

He is Co-Head of Fixed Income within the 
Investment division.

Richard Mountford
Head of Planning, Adviser to the 
Group Chief Executive (60)
He joined Schroders in 1980 as a graduate 
and held a number of investment and 
management roles before becoming Global 
Head of Intermediary Sales in 2008, Head of 
Asia Pacific in 2012 and Global Head of 
Product in 2016.

He is responsible for planning Schroders’ 
organic and inorganic growth initiatives.

52 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Charles Prideaux
Global Head of Product and Solutions 
(52)
He joined Schroders in October 2017. Prior 
to joining Schroders, he held senior roles at 
BlackRock including Head of the EMEA 
Institutional Client Business and most recently 
as Head of the European Active Investment 
Platform. 

He is responsible for our Global Product and 
Solutions business.

Nicky Richards
Global Head of Equities (52)
She began her investment career at Schroders 
as a graduate in 1987. She held a number of 
senior roles in the firm before joining Fidelity 
International and then MLC Investment 
Management in Australia. She re-joined 
Schroders in 2014 as Global Head of Equities. 
She was appointed non-executive Chairman 
of RWC Partners in March 2016.

She is responsible for the Equities 
investment business.

Carolyn Sims
Chief Financial Officer of Wealth 
Management (53)
She joined Schroders in 2013 having been 
Chief Financial Officer of Cazenove Capital 
Management since 2007. Prior to that, she 
was Finance Director at Lazard UK between 
2004 and 2007.

She is responsible for finance and operations 
within the Wealth Management division.

John Troiano
Global Head of Distribution (60)
He began his career at Schroders as a 
graduate in 1981. After holding a number of 
senior roles, he was appointed Deputy Head 
of Distribution in September 2012 and was 
appointed Head of Distribution in 2016.

He is responsible for the Group’s Distribution 
function globally.

Howard Trust
General Counsel (64)
He joined Schroders in 2003 from Barclays 
where he held various roles including Group 
General Counsel and Board Secretary.

He is responsible for the Group’s Compliance, 
Legal and Governance function.

Graham Staples
Group Company Secretary (57)
He joined Schroders in 2004. Previously, he 
held senior company secretarial, 
compliance and business development 
roles at NatWest, Barclays, TSB 
and Computershare.

He is responsible for the Group’s 
governance framework and advising the 
Board and GMC on all governance matters.

Committee changes
Nicky Richards will step down from the Committee and Rory Bateman will join the Committee as Head of Equities later in March 2019. 

Andrew Ross stood down from the Committee on 31 December 2018. His biography is set out in the 2017 Annual Report and Accounts. 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

53

GovernanceCorporate governance report

A strong governance framework  
to support the firm’s long term 
strategic development

I am pleased to introduce our corporate governance report for 2018 
in which we describe our governance arrangements, the operation 
of the Board and its Committees and how the Board discharged its 
responsibilities during the year.

Governance
2018 was a year of significant change with regard to corporate 
governance in the UK as the Financial Reporting Council issued their 
revised UK Governance Code. The Wates Report on governance in 
private companies, including major subsidiaries within listed 
companies, was published in December. The audit market and the 
role of auditors is currently under review, and the FRC itself was the 
subject of a review by Sir John Kingman, who recommended the 
establishment of a new regulator to replace the FRC with responsibility 
for governance in the UK. Further changes to governance in the UK 
are inevitable.

The Board has followed all these developments closely, receiving 
regular updates on how proposals might impact our own governance 
arrangements and what changes we might need to make. We have 
not had to change our approach to any significant degree, the 
emphasis being on articulating better what we do rather than 
introducing fundamental change, and we continue to believe that a 
strong corporate governance framework is vital to good decision 
making and the continued success of the Company. 

We have a strong Board of experienced Directors with diverse 
backgrounds and skills and a majority of independent non-executive 
Directors. During 2018 the Board focused on succession planning for 

Robin Buchanan who will step down at the Annual General Meeting in 
May after nine years on the Board, and on succession to Bruno 
Schroder. We are pleased that Deborah Waterhouse and Leonie 
Schroder will join the Board on 11 March. The majority of non-
executive independent Directors continues and 45 per cent of our 
Board will be comprised of women.

During 2018 the Board focused principally on strategic opportunities 
in our core business and in diversifying growth areas. In this context 
the Board was actively engaged in the implications for Schroders for 
the joint venture we announced with Lloyds Banking Group.

We also focussed on talent management and development and the 
firm’s culture, both of which are key to success and, particularly as the 
Company has grown rapidly in recent years, the Board’s engagement 
in these areas will continue to be at a high level.

I would like to thank all my colleagues on the Board for their 
contribution during the year.

Michael Dobson
Chairman

6 March 2019

54 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Directors are expected to attend all meetings of the Board and Committees on which they serve. Details of Board and Committee attendance are 
included in the table below.

2018 Board and Committee  
meeting attendance

Board1 Audit and Risk 
Committee

Remuneration 
Committee2

Nominations 
Committee

Michael Dobson
Executive Directors
Peter Harrison
Richard Keers
Non-executive Directors
Ian King3
Lord Howard4
Robin Buchanan5
Sir Damon Buffini6
Rhian Davies
Rakhi Goss-Custard7
Philip Mallinckrodt8
Nichola Pease
Bruno Schroder9

6/6

6/6
6/6

6/6
2/2
5/6
6/6
6/6
6/6
5/6
6/6
4/6

1/1
4/5

5/5

5/5

6/7
2/2
7/7
1/1

7/7

7/7

7/7
2/2
6/7
6/6
7/7
7/7
7/7
7/7
6/7

1.  There were five scheduled Board meetings held during the year and one 
additional Board meeting in April to discuss the acquisition of Algonquin.
2.  There were four scheduled Remuneration Committee meetings held during 

the year and three additional meetings outlined on page 74.

6.  Sir Damon Buffini was appointed to the Board and Nominations Committee 
on 1 February 2018 and as a member of the Remuneration Committee on 
29 November 2018.

7.  Rakhi Goss-Custard was appointed as a member of the Audit and Risk 

3.  Ian King was unable to attend one of the unscheduled Remuneration 

Committee meetings due to a prior commitment which could not be moved.

Committee on 29 November 2018. There were no meetings of the Committee 
in 2018 after her appointment.

4.  Lord Howard retired from the Board at the 2018 AGM.
5.  Robin Buchanan was unable to attend the Audit and Risk Committee in 

September, the Nominations Committee and the Board meeting in November 
due to prior commitments.

8.  Philip Mallinckrodt was unable to attend the Board meeting in July due to a 

family commitment.

9.  Bruno Schroder was unable to attend two Board meetings and a Nominations 

Committee meeting due to illness.

Compliance with the 2016 UK Corporate 
Governance Code (Code)
Throughout 2018, the Company has applied the main principles and 
provisions of the Code with the exception of A.3.1 as Michael Dobson 
was not independent on appointment as Chairman in April 2016. The 
Chairman’s appointment was fully explained in the 2015 Annual 
Report and Accounts. There has been an absolute majority of 
independent Directors on the Board throughout 2018.

Copies of the Code can be obtained from the FRC’s website at  
frc.org.uk.

The Board and its committees
The Board has collective responsibility for the management, direction 
and performance of the Company. It is accountable to shareholders 
for the creation and delivery of strong, sustainable financial 
performance and long-term shareholder value. In discharging its 
responsibilities, the Board takes appropriate account of the interests 
of our wider stakeholders including clients, employees, external 
service providers, regulators and society as a whole. Certain decisions 
can only be taken by the Board, including deciding on the Group’s 
overall strategy, significant new business activities and the strategy for 
management of the Group’s investment capital. These are contained 
in the Schedule of Matters Reserved to the Board, which can be found 
on the Company’s Investor Relations website, schroders.com/ir.

The Board has delegated specific responsibilities to Board committees, 
notably the Nominations Committee, Audit and Risk Committee, and 
the Remuneration Committee. The minutes of committee meetings 
are made available to all Directors. At each Board meeting, the 
Chairman of each committee provides the Board with an update of 
the work currently being carried out by the committee they chair. 
Membership of the Committees is detailed in each committee report. 
The committees’ terms of reference can be found on the Company’s 
Investor Relations website. 

During the year, the Board established a Disclosure Committee,  
which meets as and when required to determine whether a market 
announcement is required in respect of any inside information.  
There was one meeting of the Disclosure Committee in 2018.

There is also a Chairman’s Committee whose membership is 
comprised of the non-executive Directors. The Chairman’s Committee 
is not a committee of the Board and serves as an informal forum for 
the discussion of such matters as the Chairman considers appropriate. 
In 2018, the Chairman’s Committee considered Board evaluation, the 
performance of the Group Chief Executive, the investor perception 
report, acquisition opportunities and succession.

Following the 2017 external board evaluation, which is explained 
further on page 57, there have been four Board calls during the year. 
These calls are used as an additional avenue for communication that 
supplements the formal Board meeting programme. 

Board composition at 31 December 2018

Board composition

Length of tenure

Executive Directors

Non-independent 
non-executive Directors
Independent non-
executive Directors

18%

27%

55%

0-3 years

3-6 years

6-9 years

9+ years

27%

27%

19%

27%

The Board believes that it operates most effectively with an 
appropriate balance of executive Directors, independent non-
executive Directors and Directors who have a connection with the 
Company’s principal shareholder group. No individual or group of 
individuals is in a position to dominate the Board’s decision-making. 

The Nominations Committee report contains more detail on our 
approach to Board Composition. Biographies of each of the Directors 
are set out on pages 48 and 49. 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

55

GovernanceCorporate governance report continued

Independence
The Board has an absolute majority of independent Directors.  
All the non-executive Directors are independent in terms of character 
and judgement. 

Director appointments and time commitment
The rules providing for the appointment, election, re-election and 
the removal of Directors are contained in the Company’s Articles 
of Association and remain unchanged from the previous year.

Michael Dobson, as former Chief Executive, is not considered 
independent under the Code. Philip Mallinckrodt is not considered 
independent as he is a former executive Director, a member of the 
principal shareholder group and has served on the Board for more 
than nine years. The Nominations Committee believes that their 
judgement and experience continues to add value to the Board and 
the Group. The Board will therefore recommend their re-election 
at the 2019 AGM.

Bruno Schroder was not considered independent as he was a member 
of the principal shareholder group and had served on the Board for 
more than nine years at the time of his death on 20 February 2019.

The Company has decided that all Directors should retire and stand 
for re-election annually, unless they are retiring from the Board. 
Details of the Directors’ length of tenure are set out on page 55.

Non-executive Directors’ letters of appointment stipulate that they 
are expected to commit sufficient time to discharge their duties. The 
Board has adopted a policy that allows executive Directors to take up 
one external non-executive directorship. Non-executive Directors are 
required to notify the Chairman before taking on any additional 
appointments. The Board is satisfied that all Directors continue to be 
effective and demonstrate commitment to their respective roles. 

For details of executive Directors’ service contracts, termination 
arrangements and non-executive Directors’ letters of appointment, 
please refer to the summary of our Directors’ Remmuneration policy 
at schroders.com/directors-remuneration-policy.

Governance framework

Board
The Board is responsible for the management, direction and performance of the Company.

Chairman
The Chairman is 
responsible for the 
leadership of the Board, 
ensuring its effectiveness 
and setting its agenda. He 
is responsible for creating 
an environment for open, 
robust and effective 
debate. The Chairman 
is also responsible for 
ensuring effective 
communication with 
shareholders and 
other stakeholders. 

Group Chief 
Executive
The Group Chief Executive 
is responsible for the 
executive management 
of the Company and its 
subsidiaries. He is 
responsible for proposing 
the strategy for the Group 
and for its execution. He is 
assisted by members of the 
GMC in the delivery of his 
and the Board’s objectives 
for the business.

Senior Independent 
Director (SID)
The SID’s role is to act as 
a sounding board for the 
Chairman, oversee the 
evaluation of the Chairman’s 
performance and serve as 
an intermediary for the 
other Directors if necessary. 
He is also available as an 
additional point of contact 
for shareholders and other 
stakeholders should they 
wish to raise matters with 
him rather than the 
Chairman or Group 
Chief Executive.

Non-executive 
Directors
Non-executive Directors 
are expected to provide 
independent oversight and 
constructive challenge to 
the executive Directors on 
issues of strategy, 
performance and resources 
including key appointments 
and standards of conduct.

Nominations Committee
Responsible for reviewing and 
recommending changes to the 
composition of the Board and 
its Committees.

Audit and Risk Committee 
Responsible for overseeing financial 
reporting, risk management and 
internal controls and external audit.

Remuneration Committee
Responsible for the remuneration 
strategy for the Group and the 
remuneration policy for Directors and 
overseeing remuneration firm-wide.

Chairman: Michael Dobson

Chairman: Rhian Davies

Chairman: Nichola Pease

See page 60 for the 
Committee Report.

See page 62 for the 
Committee Report.

See page 68 for the 
Committee Report.

Group Management Committee 
The GMC comprises the senior management team and is the principal advisory committee to the Group Chief Executive.

Group Capital Committee
Assists the Chief Financial Officer in the deployment of 
operating, seed, co-investment and investment capital.

Group Risk Committee
Assists the Chief Financial Officer in discharging his 
responsibilities in respect of risk and controls. 

56 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Key areas of focus during the year
At each scheduled Board meeting the Board discusses 
reports from the Group Chief Executive on the performance 
of the business, the Chief Financial Officer on financial 
performance, the Company Secretary on governance 
developments, and, where relevant, a report from each of 
the Board Committees. In addition to these regular matters, 
specific areas of focus by the Board during 2018 included:

Meeting 
dates

February 

Key areas considered

 – Equities strategy
 – Potential acquisitions
 – Technology strategy
 – Annual Report and Accounts 2017 

and dividend proposal 

May

 – Strategic update, including clients, 

July

September

November

solutions, competitors and risks, and the 
evolution of the core business

 – Investing for growth
 – China strategy
 – Brexit
 – Corporate responsibility strategy 
 – Front office technology platform
 – Strategic partnership with LBG
 – Half–year results and dividend proposal
 – ICAAP and ILAAP
 – Strategic partnership with LBG
 – Group Recovery Plan and 

Resolution Pack

 – Fixed income strategy
 – Acquisition integration
 – Europe strategy
 – People strategy
 – Wind down plan
 – Remuneration strategy
 – 2019 budget

Throughout the year, the Board continued to focus on the development 
of our overall strategy for the Group and the key individual drivers of 
growth over the next five years. As part of this, the Board had a two-day 
off-site strategy meeting in May. Particular focus was given to the 
competitive environment, our clients and their needs, the evolution 
of our core business, investing for growth opportunities, our capital 
strategy and an assessment of our strategic risks.

There was an unscheduled Board meeting in April 2018 to approve 
the acquisition of Algonquin Management Partners S.A.

Board induction and training
The Group Company Secretary supports the Chairman and Group 
Chief Executive in providing a personalised induction programme to 
all new Directors. This helps to familiarise them with their duties and 
the Group’s culture and values, strategy, business model, businesses, 
operations, risks and governance arrangements. 

Following Sir Damon Buffini’s appointment in February 2018, a 
comprehensive induction programme was developed and is ongoing. 
The induction process involved: 

 – Meeting all members of the GMC to gain an insight into and an 
understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing their 
area of responsibility

 – One-to-one meetings with other senior management across the 
Company, including from the first, second and third lines of 
defence, to understand the Group’s internal control and risk 
management framework

Sir Damon Buffini and Rakhi Goss-Custard were provided with 
committee-specific briefings following their respective appointments 
to the Remuneration Committee and Audit and Risk Committee. 

During the year, the induction process has been reviewed and 
updated and tailored to ensure it remains appropriate for the needs 
of newly appointed directors.

The Board believes that the ongoing development and briefing 
of Directors is an important aspect of the Board’s agenda. Briefing 
sessions are arranged each year which, during 2018, included 
presentations on our Fixed Income business, our acquisition of Adveq 
in 2017, our investment in Benchmark Capital in 2016 and the findings 
from the investor perceptions study. Members of the Board 
Committees also receive regular updates on technical developments 
at scheduled Committee meetings.

2017 Board evaluation (external)
The Board supported an externally facilitated evaluation in 2017, one 
year earlier than required by the Code. Independent Board Evaluation 
were selected to facilitate the evaluation. They have no other 
connection with the Company. 

The 2017 Board evaluation identified a number of recommendations 
to maintain and improve the Board’s effectiveness:

Recommendations

Actions taken/progress

Having Board update 
calls between Board 
meetings

Reviewing recent 
acquisitions more 
systematically

Standardising Board 
papers further

Developing the 
induction process 
further to help new 
Directors, in particular 
those from outside the 
financial services sector

Having more informal 
time outside of Board 
meetings to strengthen 
Board relationships

 – During 2018 there were four Board 
calls: in January, April, October and 
December. These calls are used to 
supplement the formal Board 
meeting programme and provide an 
additional avenue for communication. 

 – The review of acquisitions and their 
integration into the Group has been 
incorporated into the agenda for the 
Board and Board briefings, with 
update papers measuring both 
integration and continued alignment 
with strategic goals.

 – The Company has worked with 

Board Intelligence to further refine 
Board paper standards and 
structures. This has led to a 
well-integrated board paper process 
that has improved the flow and 
quality of information to the Board 
and its Committees to facilitate 
better decision making.

 – A review of the induction process 
against market practice has been 
undertaken during the year, with 
additional briefing sessions made 
available to new Directors in 
specialist areas. The review has also 
considered how ongoing briefings 
and information can be made more 
readily available. 

 – Board dinners are held the evening 
before most Board meetings. At the 
May offsite meeting the Board was 
joined by members of the GMC for 
parts of the formal strategy 
discussion and also for the informal 
networking and Board dinner.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

57

GovernanceCorporate governance report continued

2018 Board evaluation
The 2018 Board evaluation was undertaken internally. The Chairman 
and Company Secretary met with each Director to discuss a number 
of questions regarding the effectiveness of the Board, its principal 
committees and individual Directors. The overall conclusion was that 
the Board was effective and focussed on the right things. The 
executive team was felt to be executing the strategy well. The 
committees were seen as effective in discharging their responsibilities. 
Succession planning had been handled well. In addition to strategy, 
areas for focus included broadening and deepening the non-
executives’ knowledge of the industry and our business outside the 
formal Board meetings and providing further opportunities for 
non-executive Directors to meet with management following the 
successful offsite with the GMC in 2018.

As part of the evaluation process, Directors gave feedback on their 
colleagues and the Chairman wrote to each Director with a summary. 
Ian King led the evaluation of the Chairman’s performance through a 
discussion with the whole Board. He then provided the Chairman with 
a summary of the feedback.

Priorities for 2019 
In light of the recommendations of the 2018 evaluation and following 
the 2019 process, the Board agreed a set of high-level objectives for 
2019 based on the core responsibility of delivering strong financial 
performance. These include:

 – Our growth strategy for all parts of the business

 – Talent development and succession plans

 – Capital

 – Major risks to our strategy

 – Culture, employee engagement and compensation

 – More opportunities to meet with senior management

Group Company Secretary
All Directors have access to the advice and services of the Group 
Company Secretary and can arrange through him to receive 
professional advice independently of the Company, at the 
Company’s expense.

Shareholder engagement
The Group operates a complete investor relations programme.  
In 2018, the Group Chief Executive and Chief Financial Officer 
participated in investor roadshows in the UK and North America.  
They met with a number of our major shareholders in both share 
classes to discuss our recent results and strategy for driving future 
growth. Investor Relations also led roadshows in continental Europe 
and Schroders was represented at a number of industry conferences. 
The Group is also planning a second capital markets day for the 
investor community in the first half of 2019, following the first 
event in 2017.

To ensure that the Board developed and maintained an 
understanding of the views of our major shareholders, we 
commissioned an independent investor perception study in 2018.  
A third party provider conducted in-depth interviews with 18 of the 
Company’s largest shareholders in the UK, North America and Asia 
Pacific. Their interviews covered shareholders’ views on the Group’s 
results, strategy, future prospects, competitive positioning and quality 
of senior management. Their findings were presented to the GMC 
and the Board. 

The primary means of communicating with shareholders is through 
the Annual General Meeting, the Annual Report and Accounts, 
half-year results and related presentations. All of these are available 
on the Company’s website and the Annual Report and Accounts is 
posted to all shareholders who elect to receive it. The Group’s website 
also contains information on the business of the Company, Corporate 
Governance, all regulatory announcements, key dates in the financial 
calendar and other important shareholder information.

The AGM is an opportunity to meet with shareholders, hear their 
views and answer their questions about the Group and its business. 
All resolutions are voted on by way of a poll. This allows the Company 
to count all votes rather than just those of shareholders attending the 
meeting. All resolutions are voted on separately and the final voting 
results are published as soon as practicable after the meeting. 
Together with the rest of the Board, the Chairmen of the Audit and 
Risk, Remuneration and Nominations Committees will be present 
to answer questions. The 2019 AGM is to be held on Thursday 
2 May 2019 at 11.30 a.m.

Directors’ duties – compliance with s172 of the 
Companies Act 2006
Section 172 of the Companies Act 2006 requires directors to promote 
the success of the company for the benefit of the members as a whole 
and in doing so have regard to the interests of stakeholders including 
clients, employees, suppliers, regulators and the wider society in 
which it operates. 

On page 59, we have set out how we have engaged with our key 
stakeholders and how the Board has considered their interests 
during the year. 

58 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Stakeholder interests

Stakeholders Why they are important

How we engage and consider their interests

Clients

 See page 13

Society

 See page 35.

External Service 
Partners

Clients are the central focus 
of our business. The Group’s 
resilience and ongoing success 
is built upon an ability to 
understand clients’ needs and 
respond to them. This allows 
us to anticipate how these needs 
will evolve and to construct 
products that meet their 
financial goals and build 
future prosperity. 
We recognise the responsibility 
we have to wider society and 
other key stakeholders. 
Schroders is a principle-led 
business and we believe that 
demanding high levels of 
corporate responsibility is the 
right thing to do. 

We rely on the use of external 
service partners to supplement 
our own infrastructure 
benefiting from the expertise 
our partners provide. This 
enables access to lower costs 
for service delivery. 

 See page 36.

People

 See page 31.

Shareholders

 See page 21

Regulators

 See page 38

Our people are central to the 
ongoing success of the business. 
We are proud of our reputation 
as an employer of choice. Our 
people strategy aims to develop 
an agile workforce as we 
continue to attract, retain, 
develop and motivate the right 
people for our current and 
future business needs. 

We rely on the support and 
engagement of our 
shareholders to deliver our 
strategic objectives and grow 
the business. Our shareholder 
base supports the long-term 
approach we take in the 
management of our business. 

As a global business, we build 
positive relationships with our 
regulators around the world. 
Regulators provide key oversight 
of how we run our business. Our 
clients’ best interests are served 
by our working constructively 
with regulators. 

 – The client service teams build lasting relationships with current and potential clients 

to develop a clear view of client objectives and how these will evolve. 

 – A strategic goal of the Group is to get closer to the ultimate investor in our products, 
which was a key consideration of the strategic partnership with LBG. We view the 
strategic partnership as highly beneficial for the Group’s clients and investors in 
our products. 

 – A key driver behind the Board’s consideration of the acquisition of Algonquin, in April 
2018, was the ability to integrate this into the existing private assets business and 
increase the product range available to clients. 

 – We aim for high standards of governance across the Group. As an asset manager, 
we frequently engage with companies on environmental, societal and corporate 
governance concerns. 

 – The Board agreed the Group’s approach to corporate responsibility, with a Corporate 
Responsibility Committee established with key stakeholders from our businesses. 
This Committee reports to the Board on the Group’s Corporate Responsibility 
strategy and reporting. 

 – We are proud to support the communities in which we operate and have a long 

history of contributing through donations and employee time. The Board receives 
an update on the Group’s activities in corporate responsibility, which have four 
pillars; clients, people, community and the environment.

 – We engage pro-actively with our external service partners and have a supplier code 
of conduct that sets out the high standards and behaviours we expect from them. 
The Code requires that the prohibition of forced labour and human trafficking, 
together with the ethical and responsible sourcing of goods or services, are 
incorporated into the sourcing governance and execution processes of our suppliers.

 – The Audit and Risk Committee reviews the Group’s material outsource providers 
annually to ensure that the strategy for the use of outsourced suppliers remains 
consistent with our objective of using service partners to add value to supplement 
our own infrastructure. 

 – The oversight of outsource service providers and the transition to the new front 

office technology platform has been a key area of focus for both the Audit and Risk 
Committee and the Board in 2018 and will continue to be in 2019. 

 – We engage through a variety of channels including management briefings, videos, 
an internal magazine and presentations by the Group Chief Executive to discuss 
progress made by the business, together with future objectives and challenges. We 
also conduct an annual employee opinion survey and have invested in our corporate 
communications to help employees understand and deliver our strategic objectives. 
 – The Board considers the Group’s employees to be an important stakeholder and the 
consideration of their interests forms part of many Board discussions. The Board 
discussed the results of the 2018 employee opinion survey and agreed an action plan 
to address the issues raised. 

 – Ian King, the SID, is the designated non-executive director responsible for gathering 
workforce feedback, a key requirement of the 2018 Code. As part of this, Ian will 
attend global employee forum meetings to hear directly from employees on the 
issues that concern them.

 – The Board considered the full-year and half-year results. Both the Group Chief 

Executive and Chief Financial Officer presented them to investors. 

 – The Board answered questions around strategy and our impact on society at 

the 2018 AGM.

 – Outside of results presentations, meetings are held with investors throughout the 

year, with engagement from both executive and non-executive directors. 

 – We will hold a capital markets day in 2019 to give investors the opportunity to better 

understand our strategy and engage with senior management. 

 – We commissioned an independent investor perception study. Through interviews 
with a number of major shareholders, we gathered their views on the Group’s 
strategy, results and competitive position. The findings were presented to the Board.

 – We regularly engage with regulators and policymakers to ensure that our business 

understands and contributes to evolving regulatory requirements. Senior 
management hold regular meetings to foster good working relationships. 

 – The Audit and Risk Committee receives regular reports from these meetings that 
cover the Group’s regulatory processes and procedures and its relationship with 
regulators around the world. The reports also outline the material changes in the 
regulatory environment in which the Group operates. In 2018, these included the 
Group’s implementation of GDPR, MiFID II, PRIIPs and the possible impacts of Brexit. 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

59

GovernanceNominations Committee report

Ensuring diversity in skills 
and experience 

Committee membership (meeting attendance is on page 55)

Michael Dobson (Chairman)

Lord Howard (until April 2018)

Robin Buchanan

Sir Damon Buffini

Rhian Davies

Rakhi Goss-Custard 

Ian King

Philip Mallinckrodt

Nichola Pease

Bruno Schroder

I am pleased to present the Nominations Committee report for 2018.

Responsibilities of the Nominations Committee 
The Committee is responsible for keeping under review the 
composition of the Board and its Committees and for ensuring 
appropriate executive and non-executive Director succession plans 
are in place.

The Committee’s terms of reference are available on the Company’s 
Investor Relations website at schroders.com/ir. 

Biographical details and experience of the Committee members are 
set out on pages 48 and 49.

Activities of the Nomination Committee
As we stated in our last annual report, our priorities in 2018 were 
Board composition and succession planning for non-executive 
Directors, including a successor to Robin Buchanan who will stand 
down at the 2019 AGM after nine years on the Board. Senior 
management succession was discussed by the full Board at the 
November meeting.

At our meeting in May, we discussed the required skills and 
experience for potential non-executive candidates. We were looking 
for sound business judgement, a clear ability to contribute to our 
strategic discussions and experience of leading an international  
business.

Following that meeting, we agreed the role profile and appointed 
MWM Consulting to conduct the search for potential candidates. 
MWM Consulting is a signatory to the Voluntary Code of Conduct on 
Gender Diversity and is independent of Schroders.

After discussing an initial long list of candidates, I interviewed five 
candidates, four of whom went forward to meet the Nominations 
Committee and the Group Chief Executive. On 6 March 2019, the 
Board approved the appointment of Deborah Waterhouse, who is 
Chief Executive of ViiV Healthcare. Deborah will join the Board on 
11 March 2019 and we look forward to benefiting from her experience 
as CEO of a major international business.

In addition to Board succession, the Committee also considered the 
composition of the principal Board Committees, particularly in the 
context of Robin Buchanan’s impending retirement. At our meeting in 
November 2018, the Committee recommended to the Board that 
Damon Buffini should join the Remuneration Committee and Rakhi 
Goss-Custard join the Audit and Risk Committee. The Board supported 
both these recommendations and the appointments were effective 
29 November 2018.

Bruno Schroder died on 20 Feburary, aged 86 after a short illness. For 
more than 40 years the Board has included two Directors with a 
connection to the principal shareholder group. The Board has 
previously stated that it operates most effectively with an appropriate 
balance of executive Directors, independent non-executive Directors 
and Directors with a connection to the principal shareholder group. 

60 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Policy on board diversity

The Board recognises the importance of diversity and that it is a wider issue than gender. We believe that members of the Board 
should collectively possess a diverse range of skills, expertise, industry knowledge, business and other experience necessary for the 
effective oversight of the Group. The Nominations Committee considers diversity as one of many factors when recommending new 
appointments to the Board. 

As at 31 December 2018, 27% of the Board comprised women. With the appointments of Deborah Waterhouse and Leonie Schroder, 
and the retirement of Robin Buchanan, 45% of the Board will comprise women.

We also endeavour to only use the service of executive search firms who have signed up to the Voluntary Code of Conduct on 
Gender Diversity.

Bruno Schroder was anticipating retiring from the Board at the AGM 
on 2 May 2019. Consequently, the Nominations Committee gave 
consideration in 2018 to the model for recognising in the Board 
composition the interests in the Company of the principal shareholder 
group, as well as to his succession. We considered alternative models 
and, on behalf of the Committee, the Senior Independent Director and 
I consulted with representatives of the trustees of the family trusts 
and other members of the principal shareholder group. The 
Committee concluded that the current model continues to be in the 
best interests of the Company and all its shareholders, whereby two 
family members serve on the Board as non-independent, non-
executive Directors, alongside a majority of independent non-
executive Directors and the two executive Directors. In February 2019, 
prior to Bruno Schroder’s death, the Committee received from the 
trustees of the family trusts controlling 44.75% of the Company’s 
ordinary shares a proposal that Leonie Schroder succeed Bruno 
Schroder on the Board. Nichola Pease and I interviewed Leonie 
Schroder and were satisfied that she would make a valuable 
contribution, act in the best interests of all shareholders and provide a 
useful communications channel with the principal shareholder group. 
After careful consideration, the Committee recommended the 
appointment of Leonie Schroder to the Board and this was supported 
by all Directors. Leonie will join the Board also on 11 March 2019.

As part of the process, the Board engaged with a number of major 
institutional shareholders. All those shareholders indicated their 
support for the proposal to appoint Leonie Schroder, given the overall 
mix of skills on the Board and the majority of independent non-
executive Directors. Following the changes announced, the Board will 
continue to comprise 11 Directors, six of whom are independent 
non-executive Directors.

Directors standing for re-election
The Committee agreed that all Directors standing for re-election 
continue to make a valuable contribution to the Board’s deliberations 
and recommends their re-election.

As Nichola Pease and Philip Mallinckrodt have served on the Board for 
more than six years and nine years respectively, the proposal for their 
re-election was given particular consideration. The Committee 
recommends their re-election. As required by the UK Listing Rules, the 
appointment of independent Directors must be approved by a simple 
majority of all shareholders and by a simple majority of the 
independent shareholders. Further details are set out in the 2019 
Notice of AGM. 

Diversity
Diversity goes beyond gender or ethnic background. We look for 
diversity of skills, experience and background, which is important for 
an effective Board and management team, and this will continue to be 
the primary criterion by which we select candidates for the Board.

The Board fully understands the importance of increasing gender 
diversity and has committed to have a minimum of 33% of Board 
positions held by women by 2020. Following the changes announced, 
45% of the Board will comprise women. We endeavour only to use the 
services of executive search firms which have signed up to the 
Voluntary Code of Conduct on Gender Diversity. The full Board 
diversity policy is above and also on our website.

Evaluating the performance of the Committee
The internal evaluation process for 2018 is set out in detail on page 58.  
As part of that process I discussed with each Director how the 
Committee had performed over the year. The overall view was that 
the Committee had established a clear and effective process for 
succession for independent non-executive Directors and for Directors 
with a connection to the principal shareholder group. 

Priorities for 2019
During 2019, we will continue to review Board composition and 
succession planning for senior management and non-
executive Directors.

Michael Dobson
Chairman of the Nominations Committee

6 March 2019

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

61

GovernanceAudit and Risk Committee report

Responding to new audit governance 
challenges and changes

Committee membership 
(meeting attendance is on page 55
Rhian Davies (Chairman)
Robin Buchanan
Rakhi Goss-Custard (from November 2018)
Lord Howard (until April 2018)
Nichola Pease

I am pleased to present the Committee’s report for the year ended 
31 December 2018. The Committee plays a key role in overseeing the 
integrity of the Company’s financial statements and robustness of the 
Group’s systems of internal control and financial and risk 
management systems.

The Committee recognises its role in promoting the integrity of the 
Group’s financial results and high-quality reporting. At the 2018 AGM, 
Ernst & Young (EY) were appointed as the Group’s external auditor 
and we have welcomed the fresh insights, challenges and perspectives 
they have brought to the 2018 Annual Report and Accounts and to our 
discussions throughout the year. The smooth transition is a testament 
to the work undertaken by the Group and the professionalism of EY 
and the outgoing external auditor, PwC.

We welcome the Kingman review and the Competition and Markets 
Authority’s efforts to improve audit quality and to reduce the risk of 
further reduction in the choice of auditor and we fully support the 
objective of increasing confidence in financial reporting through a 
focus on transparent reporting by companies, along with the 
assurance of a high-quality audit.

The Committee plays an important role in reviewing culture and 
conduct risk in the Group, which seeks to promote a client-centric 
culture. We have continued to oversee the development of our 
conduct programme designed to identify emerging trends and 

heightened risk issues. Conduct and culture risk is informed by a 
number of metrics, including conduct risk reports, employee opinion 
surveys and oversight by the second line of defence functions. 
Although there is no overall standard industry approach, we believe 
that the Group’s arrangements are well-positioned against 
regulatory expectations.

During the year, the Committee continued to focus on its 
responsibility for oversight of the Group’s control environment and 
system of internal controls and the Group’s management of risk and 
compliance related activities. As part of this work, the Committee 
considered the Group’s ICAAP, ILAAP, wind down plan, risk appetite 
and various operational stress scenarios to support the Board’s 
conclusions on the viability statement set out on page 42.

I would like to welcome Rakhi Goss-Custard as a member of the 
Committee. Rakhi replaces Robin Buchanan, who will retire from the 
Board at the 2019 AGM. On behalf of the Committee, I would like to 
thank Robin for his invaluable contribution over the past nine years. 

I am grateful to all members of the Committee for their support 
in 2018 and I look forward to continuing our work in 2019.

Rhian Davies
Chairman of the Audit and Risk Committee

6 March 2019

Responsibilities of the Committee
The principal role of the Committee is to 
assist the Board in fulfilling its oversight 
responsibilities in relation to financial 
reporting, financial controls and audit, risk 
and internal controls.

All members of the Committee are 
independent non-executive Directors. 
Biographical details and the experience of 
Committee members are set out on pages 
48 and 49. The Board has determined that, 
by virtue of their previous experience 
gained in other organisations, members 
collectively have the competence relevant 
to the sector in which the Group operates. 
In addition, the Board considers that Rhian 

Davies, a chartered accountant, has the 
recent and relevant financial experience 
required to chair the Committee.

The Chairman, Group Chief Executive, Chief 
Financial Officer and Bruno Schroder were 
invited to attend meetings by the Chairman 
of the Committee. Other regular attendees 
who advised the Committee were the 
Group Financial Controller, the heads of 
Compliance, Risk and Internal Audit and the 
General Counsel. Other members of senior 
management were also invited to attend as 
appropriate. The Chairman of the Wealth 
Management Audit and Risk Committee 
(WMARC), who is an independent non-
executive Director of Schroder & Co. 

Limited, attended one meeting and 
provided a report to each meeting on 
matters related to the Wealth 
Management business.

Representatives from EY, including Julian 
Young, the new lead audit partner for the 
2018 financial year, attended all of the 
Committee’s scheduled meetings. During 
2018, two private meetings were held with 
the external auditor without management 
present. Private meetings were also held 
with the Chief Financial Officer and the 
heads of the Compliance, Risk and Internal 
Audit functions. These meetings provided 
an opportunity for any matters to be 
raised confidentially.

62 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial reporting, 
financial controls and 
external audit
The Committee’s responsibilities 
include reviewing the half-year 
and annual results and the 
Annual Report and Accounts 
before recommending them to 
the Board for approval. The 
Committee’s responsibilities also 
include oversight of the 
effectiveness of the external 
audit, the independence of the 
external auditor and 
recommending to the Board the 
appointment of the 
external auditor.

At the AGM in April 2018, 
shareholders approved the 
appointment of EY, to replace 
PwC as external auditor. Since 
the conclusion of the audit 
tender process in 2016, the 
Committee has overseen the 
transition of the external audit. 
The audit tender process, the 
transition process and the 
Committee’s work during 2018, 
with respect to the auditor, was 
primarily focused on ensuring 
that the Committee selected a 
firm that would provide robust 
challenge over the production of 
the Group’s financial statements 
and that the audit would be 
effective and of high-quality 
from the first year. Providing 
oversight of the external auditor 
also supports the Committee’s 
responsibilities with respect to 
the content and integrity of 
financial reporting, the 
appropriateness of accounting 
estimates and judgements, and 
the effectiveness of the financial 
control framework.

The Committee’s primary activities are the oversight of:

Financial reporting,  
financial controls and audit

 – The content and integrity of financial and 

Pillar 3 reporting

 – The appropriateness of accounting estimates 

and judgements

 – The effectiveness of the financial control 

framework

 – The effectiveness of the external auditor

 – The independence of the external auditor

 – Recommending to the Board the 

appointment of the external auditor

Risk and internal controls

 – The Group’s risk and control framework, 
including the Group’s whistleblowing 
procedures and the Head of Financial Crime 
Risk’s reports

 – The Group’s ICAAP, ILAAP, wind down plan, 
risk appetite and the recovery plan and 
resolution pack

 – The Group’s regulatory compliance processes 
and procedures and its relationships with 
regulators and compliance monitoring

 – The Group’s Internal Audit function

 – Emerging and thematic risks that may have a 
material impact on the Group’s operations in 
the future

Key areas of focus during the year
The table below summarises the key issues that the Committee considered at each of its  
meetings during 2018. At every meeting, the Committee receives updates from Internal Audit, 
Compliance, Legal and External Audit covering ongoing projects, key issues that have  
arisen since the prior meeting and reviews a dashboard of metrics in place for key risks.

Meeting 

February

Financial reporting,  
financial controls and audit

 – Annual Report and Accounts, including 
financial estimates and judgements

 – Viability statement

 – Pillar 3 disclosures

Risk and internal controls

 – Report from WMARC

 – Key risks and risk management

 – Internal audit control framework 

review

 – Financial crime review

May

 – External audit plan, including significant 

 – ICAAP and ILAAP

audit risks (being improper recognition of 
revenue and cost of sales)

 – Business continuity

 – Oversight of outsource providers 

 – Privileged access review

July

 – Half-year results, including financial 

 – Key risks

estimates and judgements

 – Risk and control assessments

September

 – Tax strategy

 – Client on-boarding processes

 – Conduct and culture risk 

oversight

 – Group recovery plan and 

resolution pack

 – Financial Crime and AML review

November

 – Financial controls

 – Information security and 

 – Accounting policies and judgements 

including future accounting 
developments

 – Policies for safeguarding the 

independence of the external auditor

technology risk

 – Cyber security

 – Wind down plan

 – Key risks 

 – Legal risk

 – Insurance review

 – 2019 Internal Audit and 

Compliance monitoring plans 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

63

GovernanceAudit and Risk Committee report continued

Significant accounting estimates and judgements 
The preparation of the financial statements requires the application of certain estimates and judgements. The material areas of either estimation 
or judgement are set out in the presentation of the financial statements on page 150. Each of these areas are considered by the Committee based 
on reports prepared by Finance. EY consider each estimate and judgement and present their conclusions to the Committee. The significant 
estimates and judgements considered in respect of the 2018 financial statements and the agreed action by the Committee are summarised below.

Significant estimates and judgements

Action and conclusion

Acquisition of subsidiaries and associates in 2018

The Group acquired a number of subsidiaries and associates during 2018. Significant 
judgements were made to estimate the fair value of the acquired intangible assets and 
the deferred consideration in relation to the acquisition of Algonquin. The judgements 
were mainly in respect of the estimation of forecast returns from the business and the 
applicable discount rate, which were used to determine both the contingent 
consideration component of the purchase price and the acquired intangible asset. The 
other acquisitions did not require any significant estimate or judgement in the context 
of the Group’s results. 

The Committee considered a report from Finance that set 
out the principal valuation assumptions and fair values in 
respect of Algonquin. The Committee considered the 
assumptions and the sensitivity of the fair values to 
changes in the assumptions. 

EY also provided the Committee with a report summarising 
the findings from their audit of the acquisition accounting 
for Algonquin. The Committee discussed the findings with 
EY who confirmed they had not identified any significant 
matters to draw to the Committee’s attention. 

Once the Committee was satisfied with the proposals, they 
concluded that the fair value estimates were appropriate.

Please refer to Note 28 in respect of estimates and judgements made in respect of acquisitions made in 2018.

Carried interest

The Group recognises carried interest from its private assets businesses. The revenue 
stream is dependent on the future value of certain investments that may not crystallise 
until an uncertain date in the future. The Group is contractually committed to make 
payments to various parties, including as part of deferred consideration, based on a 
relevant proportion of carried interest received. 

For financial reporting purposes, the Group is required to estimate the value of carried 
interest receivable, determined based on the requirements of IFRS 15 Revenue from 
Contracts with Customers; and the fair value of amounts payable that relate to carried 
interest, determined based on the requirement of IFRS 9 Financial Instruments.

The valuation bases for the significant balances in 2018 were materially consistent with 
those applied in the prior year and comprised the fair value of the relevant assets on 
which carried interest may be earned, growth rates, the expected realisation dates and 
the discount rates. Following the implementation of IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts 
with Customers, the amounts recorded as receivable were constrained through 
applying adjustments as explained in note 2. 

The Committee received a report from Finance, which 
reviewed the valuation bases for estimating the amounts 
receivable and payable in respect of carried interest. The 
Committee considered the judgement applied in 
determining the principal assumptions and the sensitivity 
of the relevant balances to those assumptions. 

The Committee discussed the accounting for carried 
interest with EY and considered the findings from their 
audit work. Once the Committee was satisfied with the 
judgements applied, the estimated carrying values of each 
component were approved. 

Due to the increase in value of carried interest balances at 
the year end, the Committee considered the additional 
disclosures presented in 2018 and concluded that they 
were appropriate.

Please refer to note 2 for the estimates and judgements made in respect of carried interest receivable and amounts payable in respect of carried interest. 
An explanation of carried interest is set out on page 26.

Pension Schemes

The Group’s principal DB pension scheme is in respect of certain UK employees and 
former employees (the ‘Scheme’). The Scheme was closed to future accrual in 2011 
and, as at 31 December 2018, had a significant surplus. The pension obligation, which 
was valued as £795.6 million at the year end, is estimated based on a number of 
assumptions, the most significant relating to mortality rates. The other assumptions 
used to determine the DB pension surplus are significantly less judgemental and the 
valuation of plan assets is mainly based on securities with readily available 
market values.

The finance report to the Committee included the key 
financial assumptions, which had been applied by the 
independent qualified actuaries, Aon Hewitt Limited, to 
determine the Scheme surplus. EY’s report sets out their 
conclusions on the pension surplus. The Committee 
considered the proposed assumptions, and specifically 
those relating to mortality rates, and was satisfied that 
the estimates were appropriate.

Please refer to Note 24 for more information on the estimates and judgements made in respect of the Scheme.

Presentation of profits

The consolidated income statement separately presents exceptional items. This 
presentation is permitted by accounting rules for specific items of income or expense 
that are considered material. The presentation involves judgement by the Group to 
identify the items that warrant specific disclosure in accordance with 
accounting standards.

Please refer to note 1b for more information on exceptional items.

64 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

The Committee considered, and was satisfied with, the 
continued presentation of exceptional items within a 
separate column in the consolidated income statement. 
This presentation is considered appropriate as it provides 
a transparent view of certain items and the underlying 
performance of the business. In forming their conclusions, 
the Committee considered the findings of EY. For 2018, 
exceptional items principally comprised the cost reduction 
programme, amortisation of acquired intangible assets and 
costs associated with acquisitions and disposals.

Financial reporting and financial controls
The Committee reviews whether suitable accounting policies have 
been adopted and whether management have made appropriate 
estimates and judgements, including those summarised on page 150. 
The Committee is also required to report to shareholders on the 
process it followed in its review of significant estimates and 
judgemental issues that it had considered during the year. These 
areas are set out on page 64. During 2018, the Committee considered 
the Group’s final proposals on the adoption of two new accounting 
standards for 2018, and received an update on further accounting 
developments that would be adopted in the future. These are 
summarised in the basis of preparation of the financial statements 
on pages 149 and 150.

Financial reporting relies on there being an appropriate financial 
control environment. The Committee receives reports on the existing 
control environment as well as plans to enhance controls in the future, 
along with progress made against previous planned changes. The 
reports provide a comprehensive summary of the controls that exist 
across the Finance function globally and support the Group’s risk and 
control assessments. For more details, see page 41. For 2018, the 
reports mainly focused on proposed enhancements to the Group’s 
reporting capabilities and cost management processes, as well as 
providing an update on control enhancements within the revenue and 
commissions processes. The financial control environment is also 
subject to audit procedures by both the Group’s internal and  
external auditors. 

The Committee also considers other controls that might have an 
impact on financial reporting. During 2018, the Committee received a 
report from EY that presented a company and industry review of cyber 
security. In addition, the Committee reviews the Group’s tax strategy 
annually, which is discussed with the external auditors. For more 
details see pages 38 and 39.

The Committee considers the Group’s financial projections and the 
application of stress scenarios so that the Board can make the viability 
statement, as set out on page 42, and to support the going concern 
basis of preparation of the financial statements.

A key focus of the Committee is its work in assisting the Board in 
ensuring that the Annual Report and Accounts, when taken as a 
whole, is fair, balanced and understandable and assessing whether 
it provides the information necessary for shareholders to assess the 
Group’s position and performance, business model and strategy. The 
Committee considered the key messages communicated in the 2018 
Annual Report and Accounts, as well as the information provided to 
the Committee and the Board as a whole during the year and their 
discussions on these. The Committee, having completed its review, 
recommended to the Board that, when taken as a whole, the 2018 
Annual Report and Accounts is fair, balanced and understandable 
and provides the information necessary for shareholders to assess 
the Group’s position and performance, business model and strategy.

Oversight of the external auditor
The Committee places great importance on the quality, effectiveness 
and independence of the external audit process. The external auditor 
attends all the Committee’s scheduled meetings and EY have attended 
the Committee since November 2017, prior to their appointment, at 
the request of the Committee. The Committee holds private meetings 
with the external auditor without management present. In selecting 
EY as the external auditor and in performing their other 
responsibilities with regards to the external auditor, the Committee 
applies the principles of the Code and guidance provided by various 
bodies, including the FRC. 

The Committee can confirm that the Company has complied with the 
provisions of the Competition and Markets Authority Order 2014 
relating to the UK audit market for large companies throughout the 
year under review and as at the date of this report.

Assessment of audit quality and effectiveness
Following the completion of PwC’s audit for the 2017 Annual Report 
and Accounts, the Group Financial Controller undertook a review of 
their performance on behalf of the Committee. This assessment was 
performed in addition to the normal assessment processes that were 
conducted by the Committee prior to the publication of the 2017 
Annual Report and Accounts. The Chairman of the Committee 
provided feedback to a senior PwC partner, independent of the 
engagement team, that areas of improvement identified following the 
review in respect of the 2016 audit had been addressed and that no 
deterioration in the quality of the audit was noted, with PwC being 
independent and bringing objectivity and scepticism to the 2017 audit. 
This process concluded the Group’s external audit relationship with 
PwC and the formal assessment of PwC’s performance for the 2017 
year-end.

EY were selected as external auditor based on criteria that were 
primarily focused on audit quality and effectiveness. Notwithstanding 
the Committee’s decision to recommend EY’s appointment, during the 
audit tender process the Committee identified some areas of focus for 
EY and these were discussed with the lead engagement partner and 
the Committee’s assessment of EY’s performance was undertaken 
with particular focus on these identified areas. 

During the transition phase, prior to EY’s appointment in 2018, the 
Committee received regular reports from the Group Financial 
Controller on the transition activity to ensure that this was well 
planned and executed. 

Following EY’s appointment in April 2018, the Committee has 
continued to assess their performance, including consideration of 
the audit plan, which contained the key areas of audit risk, progress 
against the plan, responsiveness to changes in our business and their 
conclusions on estimates, judgements and other areas of focus that 
were identified during the performance of their work. 

The Committee has also assessed the regulatory findings on 
inspections conducted in respect of EY audits since the audit tender 
process was concluded and areas of development were discussed with 
Julian Young, the senior statutory auditor.

The Committee has received initial feedback from key stakeholders on 
the conduct of EY’s audit. This initial feedback provided the Committee 
with assurance that there were no areas of significant concern 
regarding the audit. The process by which the more detailed 
assessment of EY’s performance on the 2018 audit will be conducted 
was considered and approved by the Committee in March 2019. This 
process will be carried out later in the year by way of a questionnaire 
completed by key stakeholders, prepared in accordance with the FRC’s 
guidance on assessing audit quality. The findings from this 
questionnaire, including any areas for improvement, will be 
considered by the Committee and communicated to EY prior to 
commencing the 2019 audit process. The Committee will then monitor 
EY’s progress against these findings as part of their ongoing focus on 
auditor effectiveness and audit quality.

Independence and non-audit services
EY’s independence was considered during the 2016 audit tender 
process, where certain services and independence constraints were 
identified that required resolution before EY were appointed. In May 
2017, EY wrote to the Committee to confirm that all independence 
constraints had been cleared. EY have continued to confirm their 
independence during the 2018 half-year results and prior to issuing 
their opinion on the Annual Report and Accounts.

One key factor in ensuring auditor independence is the Committee’s 
consideration of the provision of certain non-audit services by EY. The 
Committee maintains a policy on the engagement of the auditor for 
the provision of non-audit services to safeguard their independence 
and objectivity. This policy is reviewed annually and takes account of 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

65

GovernanceAudit and Risk Committee report continued

relevant regulatory restrictions and guidance in the jurisdictions in 
which the Group operates, including those in the UK. The policy 
prohibits the provision of certain non-permitted non-audit services 
and contains rules regarding the approving of permitted non-audit 
services that are permitted by regulation. 

The Group’s outgoing auditor, PwC, was required to comply with the 
policy until June 2018, when PwC resigned from all subsidiaries that 
are public interest entities, as defined by the EU. EY has been subject 
to the policy since November 2016, subject to the completion of any 
existing services that had begun prior to the audit tender process. 

Details of the total fees paid to EY are set out in note 4 to the accounts. 
The policy on non-audit services restricts the appointment of EY to 
services that are closely related to the audit. Other services, where 
they are not prohibited, may also be considered but these will not 
normally be approved by the Committee. Certain services are 
provided to the Group that are closely related to the audit but are not 
required by regulation. The Committee considers that these services 
are most appropriately performed by the Group’s external auditor as 
they support the statutory audit as well as providing the external audit 
with relevant insights on aspects of the business, although they are 
not necessarily directly related to the financial statements. 

Non-audit fees, excluding audit-related assurance services required 
under regulation, equated to 14% of audit fees. The equivalent 
calculation for 2017, but in respect of services provided by PwC,  
was 51%.

For 2018, the non-audit services not required by regulation mainly 
comprised assurance services in respect of controls reports, issued 
under International Standard on Assurance Engagements 3402 or 
similar principles, that are normally conducted by a Group’s external 
auditor but are not required by regulation and Global Investment 
Performance Standards verification. These services are assurance in 
nature and do not present a risk to independence.

Auditor oversight conclusion
Prior to recommending the 2018 Annual Report and Accounts for 
approval, the Committee assessed the effectiveness of the audit, 
whether there was sufficient evidence of audit quality and considered 
EY’s independence. In forming their conclusion, the Committee 
considered the evidence provided directly to the Committee, as well as 
feedback compiled by the Group Financial Controller. 

On the basis of the review, the Committee is satisfied with the work of 
EY and that they are objective and independent. Accordingly the 
Committee has recommended to the Board that a resolution be put to 
the 2019 AGM for the reappointment of EY as external auditor, and 
the Board has accepted this recommendation. 

Risk and internal controls
The Board has overall responsibility for the Company’s system of 
internal controls, the ongoing monitoring of risk and internal control 
systems and for reporting on any significant failings or weaknesses.

The system of control is designed to manage rather than eliminate 
the risk of failure to achieve the Group’s strategic objectives and can 
only provide reasonable assurance against material misstatement or 
loss. The Board has delegated to the Committee responsibility for 
reviewing the effectiveness and monitoring of the risk and internal 
controls framework.

On behalf of the Board, the Committee carried out the annual 
assessment of the effectiveness of internal controls during 2018, 
including those related to the financial reporting process. The 
Committee also considered the adequacy of the Group’s risk 
management arrangements in the context of the Group’s business 
and strategy. In carrying out its assessment, the Committee 
considered reports from the Group Financial Controller and the heads 
of Compliance, Risk, Internal Audit and from EY. This enabled an 
evaluation of the effectiveness of the Group’s internal 
control framework.

66 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Risk
Risk reports set out changes in the level or nature of the risks faced by 
the Group, developments in risk management and operational events, 
including significant errors and omissions. Separate reports allowed 
the Committee to consider a range of factors when determining the 
key risks and uncertainties faced by the Group. These included 
assessments of risk tolerance and stress testing of the Group’s capital 
position, as well as the production of the Group’s ICAAP, ILAAP, the 
wind down plan and the Group’s Recovery Plan and Resolution Pack.

The Committee also considers emerging and thematic risks that may 
have a material impact on the Group. During the year, the Committee 
reviewed the Group’s arrangements in the areas of business 
continuity, information security and culture and conduct risk. 

Further information can be found in the key risks and mitigations 
section of the Strategic report set out on pages 40 to 47.

Set out on this and the following page are summaries of the 
Committee’s activity in four areas where members of the first line 
of defence attended and presented to the Committee in relation to 
emerging and thematic risks.

Information and Cyber Security 
Clients continue to seek reassurance that the Group has effective 
Information and Cyber Security arrangements in light of the 
increase in high profile cyber attacks in recent years. The 
Committee received an update on privileged access management, 
which had been identified as an area for improvement in the 
external review of Schroders Information Security controls 
undertaken by PA Consulting in 2017. The privileged access 
project has progressed well. In addition, changes in user access 
accounts are being improved to extend controls beyond the ISAE 
3402 and financial audit systems. 

The external landscape continues to evolve with additional volume 
of and increasingly sophisticated attacks. In light of the pace of 
developments in this area, the Committee will continue to review 
and assess the Group’s capabilities. 

Transition to new technology platforms
The move to 1 London Wall Place provided the opportunity to 
upgrade some of our technology systems. The Committee 
considered the transition to new technology platforms as a key 
priority for 2018 and received a number of updates throughout 
the year. During the year, the business introduced S3, a virtual 
desktop technology, for all London staff and transitioned to a new 
front office investment platform. These systems enabled the 
business to make improvements to its internal processes and 
business continuity arrangements. 

The Committee had a number of reports on the transition to the 
new front office investment platform, which was implemented in 
2018. 

The Committee also received an update on the utilisation of 
technology in the key Group-wide client take-on project aimed at 
improving all aspects of client on-boarding across all client types, 
channels and asset classes. The project has already mitigated 
some take-on risks through the implementation of standard 
processes and adoption of validated data in the engagement 
process, the key aim being a reduction in manual processes.  
The Committee will continue to focus on progress made in this  
area during 2019. 

Oversight of outsourced services 
The Group relies on external service partners to supplement our 
own infrastructure but retains responsibility for these services. 
The Committee conducts regular reviews of the Group’s material 
outsource providers in accordance with the Group’s outsourcing 
policy. During 2018, the Group continued to develop these 
governance processes extending oversight to a broader range of 
suppliers. The Committee also reviewed the status of ongoing 
improvement programmes and other actions that are focused on 
addressing service quality issues identified in previous years. The 
Committee is also overseeing the transition of the Group’s largest 
outsource provider of transfer agency and administration services 
for our UK funds and Life Company. This migration is scheduled to 
commence in 2019. The Committee will continue to provide 
oversight of the Group’s outsourcing arrangements, particularly 
new partners who were engaged in 2018 and throughout 2019.

New regulatory requirements 
The Committee received reports from the new Group Head of 
Financial Crime Risk in recognition of the Group’s increased risk 
profile in respect of financial crime, particularly in the Wealth 
Management and private assets and alternatives businesses and 
activities in higher risk countries in Asia and South America. 
Financial crime remains a high priority for all of the Group’s 
regulators, with compliance driven by the implementation of the 
4th and 5th EU Money Laundering Directives, the UK Criminal 
Finances Act and the US sanctions regime. All relevant staff are 
required to undertake training and attest to compliance with the 
Group’s financial crime policies.

GDPR came into force on 25 May 2018. During 2018, the 
Committee received updates on its implementation and impact on 
the Group including the amendments to our processes and 
policies to address its requirements. In January 2018, MiFID II 
came into force. The Committee continues to monitor the 
implementation and embedding of its requirements. 

Compliance
Compliance reports describe the status of our relationships and 
dealings with our principal regulators and material changes in the 
regulatory environment in which the Group operates. The reports also 
outline key compliance issues, and the planning and execution of the 
compliance monitoring programme. Monitoring is carried out globally 
to assess the Group’s compliance with local regulatory standards 
and requirements.

The Committee considered the extension of the Senior Managers  
and Certification Regime, which will include asset managers and  
other investment firms from 9 December 2019 and the potential 
impacts of possible Brexit scenarios. The Committee also received 
reports on the application of GDPR and MiFID to ensure the Group’s 
arrangements remained under close review following their 
implementation and on conduct and culture.

Internal Audit
The Committee has authority to appoint or remove the Group Head of 
Internal Audit, who reports directly to the Chairman of the Committee. 
The Chairman of the Committee is accountable for setting the 
objectives of the Group Head of Internal Audit, appraising his 
performance against those objectives and for recommending his 
remuneration to the Remuneration Committee, with advice from the 
Group Chief Executive.

The Committee also has responsibility for approving the Internal Audit 
budget and being satisfied that the Internal Audit function has 
appropriate resources and continues to be effective and a valued 
assurance function within the Group. The Committee satisfies itself as 
to the quality, experience and expertise of the function through 
regular interaction with the Group Head of Internal Audit, both when 
the Committee meets and also through other regular meetings 
outside the formal meeting schedule. 

Internal Audit reports to the Committee set out progress against a 
rolling plan of audits approved by the Committee on an annual basis. 
These reports include any significant findings from audits performed 
and their subsequent remediation and recommendations to improve 
the control environment. During the year the Committee agreed to 
proposed amendments to the internal audit plan to meet the evolving 
gross risks faced by the business. In 2018, additional audit work was 
carried out in relation to technology in Benchmark Capital, product 
governance, GDPR and dealing commission. 

Both the annual compliance monitoring and Internal Audit plans 
are developed on a risk-weighted basis to provide proportionate 
reassurance over the Group’s controls for the key risks set out 
on pages 40 to 47.

Evaluating the performance of the Committee
The annual evaluation of the Committee’s effectiveness was 
undertaken as part of the overall Board evaluation process. The 
findings relating to the Committee were discussed with the 
Committee Chairman. Overall, the Committee is considered to be 
performing well, is rigorous and effective in discharging its 
responsibilities and providing the Board with assurance. 

Priorities for 2019 
As well as considering the standing items of business, the Committee 
will also focus on the following areas during 2019:

 – Cyber and information security

 – Conduct and culture risk

 – Financial crime

 – Transition to new technology platforms and robotics

 – New regulatory requirements including the expansion of the Senior 

Managers and Certification Regime 

 – Oversight of outsourced services and planned changes

 – Acquisition and integration risks

Committee’s assessment of internal control and risk 
management arrangements
In light of its work, the Committee was content with the effectiveness 
of the Group’s processes governing financial and regulatory reporting 
and controls, its culture, ethical standards and its relationships with 
regulators. The Committee was also satisfied with the appropriateness 
and adequacy of the Group’s risk management arrangements and 
supporting risk management systems including; the risk monitoring 
processes, internal controls framework and the three lines of 
defence model.

By order of the Board

Rhian Davies
Chairman of the Audit and Risk Committee

6 March 2019

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

67

GovernanceRemuneration report

Paying for performance in a simple 
and transparent way

Structure of the remuneration report
 – Statement by the Remuneration Committee Chairman 

(pages 68 and 69)

 – Remuneration at a glance (pages 70 to 73)

 – Remuneration governance (pages 74 and 75)

 – Annual report on remuneration (pages 76 to 90)

excellence, innovation, teamwork, passion and integrity – and who 
demonstrate the behaviours we expect in a client-centric culture. 
Our discretionary approach also ensures we can reflect performance 
on management of risks and adherence to compliance controls in pay 
outcomes (see page 89).

We have comprehensively reviewed the peer groups that we use 
when considering pay outcomes for the executive Directors. No peer 
group is perfect; all companies are different so there are few if any 
that face exactly the same opportunities and challenges that we do. 
However, in setting annual bonus outcomes we focus primarily on 
paying for performance rather than positioning against market rates, 
with the peer groups used as a sense check for remuneration 
decisions rather than as a driver. As such, we concluded that both 
our asset management and FTSE-100 financial services peer groups 
provide useful context for our decision-making, as well as the wider 
FTSE-100 (see page 80). 

The 2018 UK Corporate Governance Code includes new provisions 
on executive pay, against which we are well positioned. Our executive 
Directors’ retirement benefits are provided on the same basis as those 
of other UK employees. The executive Directors’ shareholding 
requirements extend for two years post-employment. The LTIP 
performance period plus post-vesting holding period totals five years 
and we have the discretion to reduce the extent to which awards vest 
if the Committee judges that the unadjusted outcome from the 
performance conditions does not reflect underlying performance.

During 2018, we introduced post-employment restrictions into our 
deferred compensation plan rules, which apply when the Committee 
uses its discretion to permit a departing employee to retain unvested 
awards. As a result, the unvested deferred remuneration that the 
leaver is entitled to retain is forfeitable at any time up until the vesting 
date if they join a competitor or poach Schroders’ clients 
or employees.

Potential regulatory changes
Though much remains uncertain, draft legislation in Europe has the 
potential to result in new regulatory requirements on the structure 
of remuneration at Schroders, in particular the latest iteration of the 
Capital Requirements Directive and the new Investment Firms 
Directive. We believe that our remuneration approach is right for 
Schroders and our stakeholders but we continue to monitor 
developments closely. If regulatory changes were to mean a new 
remuneration policy is required for the executive Directors we will 
consult with shareholders.

Independent advisers
In July 2018, we appointed PwC as independent advisers to the 
Committee. We selected PwC because they are amongst the market 
leaders in this area, with a good understanding of the firm through 
their existing HR consulting engagement with Schroders (see page 
75). The Committee assesses the performance of its advisers annually, 
including the quality of advice provided, to ensure that it is 
independent of any support provided to management.

Committee membership (meeting attendance is on page 55)

Nichola Pease (Chairman)

Robin Buchanan

Sir Damon Buffini (from November 2018)

Ian King

Lord Howard (until April 2018)

I am delighted to present our first remuneration report since I took 
over as Remuneration Committee Chairman in April 2018, having 
served on the Committee since 2014. I would like to thank Lord 
Howard for his contribution during his nine years as a member 
and almost six years as Committee Chairman, and welcome 
Sir Damon Buffini as a member of the Committee. 

Remuneration approach for the executive Directors 
Shareholders approved our Directors’ remuneration policy at our AGM 
in 2017, to apply until our AGM in 2020. During 2018, the Committee 
and the Board carried out a detailed review of our remuneration 
approach for the executive Directors. We concluded that it continues 
to be right for Schroders and is a key driver of the Group’s success 
over the long term. I wrote to our largest shareholders earlier this 
year to update them on our thinking following this review.

Long-term thinking governs our remuneration approach. We pay for 
performance in a simple and transparent way, clearly aligned to client 
and shareholder interests. Our remuneration strategy reflects the 
global marketplace in which we operate, helping us to attract, 
motivate, reward and retain the talented individuals we need to 
maintain the Group’s success.

We continue to believe in a discretionary approach to assessing 
performance and determining annual bonus awards, as opposed to 
formulaic incentives. We believe that formulaic pay can often drive the 
wrong behaviours and the wrong long-term outcomes for clients, 
shareholders and other stakeholders. We look to reward appropriately 
all employees who perform well and adhere to the firm’s values – 

68 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

2018 performance and pay outcomes
2018 saw significant progress for Schroders across a number of 
strategically important areas. However, these strategic developments 
took place against a backdrop of an increasingly difficult market 
environment. Throughout this, management have continued to invest 
in the future growth of our business. As a result, profit before tax and 
exceptional items was £761.2 million (2017: £800.3 million). The Board 
has recommended a 1 pence increase in the total dividend per share 
for the year. 

We recognise the significant challenges that our industry faces and in 
light of this wish to remain prudent on pay levels. We recommended 
to the Board a total compensation ratio maintained at 43%, below our 
target range of 45% to 49%, to position the firm for more challenging 
market conditions and the headwinds facing the industry in the 
future. As a result, the annual bonus pool is down 7% on last year.

We continue to manage the executive Directors’ remuneration in line 
with our Directors’ remuneration policy, as outlined last year. Our 
approach to determining the annual bonus awards for the executive 
Directors is consistent with that for the rest of our employees. We 
have taken into account the progress we have made against our 
strategic goals. We look to reward a balanced approach to growing 
the business profitably and sustainably, encouraging the longevity 
of client relationships, while retaining and developing our talented 
people who are key to organisational stability and long-term success. 
More information on the annual bonus awards for the executive 
Directors is outlined on pages 81 to 83.

For 2018, we have awarded Peter Harrison, our Group Chief Executive, 
an annual bonus of £6.175 million, down 5% on 2017. Our financial 
results fell short of budget in a number of areas, although aspects 
of this were market-wide rather than Schroders-specific issues. 
Despite ongoing pressure on fee margins, net income increased 3%. 
Management continued to invest in the future growth of the business 
during 2018. Strategic progress during the year was excellent and saw 
significant advances as we grew our Wealth Management and private 
assets businesses.

We have awarded Richard Keers, our Chief Financial Officer, an annual 
bonus of £2.6 million, down 5% on 2017. Again, this reflects our 
weaker financial performance, as we continued to invest for future 
growth. Richard had a strong 2018. He was responsible for two key 
projects, the implementation of our new front office technology 
platform and the completion of and move into our new London 
headquarters, both of which were successfully completed. He also 
managed a smooth and efficient change of our statutory auditor. 

The LTIP performance conditions remain highly demanding and in 
March 2019 we expect LTIP awards granted in 2015 to lapse without 
vesting. The earnings per share (EPS) and net new business (NNB) 
targets will not be met, despite EPS growth of 21% and NNB of 
£14.2 billion over this period (see page 84).

In February 2019, at the same time as setting the executive Directors’ 
bonuses, the Committee reviewed the distribution of salary increases 
and bonuses for the full workforce. The Group Chief Executive and 
Chief Financial Officer have seen decreases in total variable pay of 5% 

and 15% respectively, compared with a median bonus decrease of 3% 
and a mean decrease of 5% for employees who worked in the Group 
for all of 2017 and 2018. The Group Chief Executive’s pay is 37 times 
the employee mean (2017: 35 times) and 63 times the employee 
median (2017: 64 times), as shown on page 81. The UK Government 
is introducing statutory disclosure of the ratio of CEO pay compared 
with UK-based employees from next year. For a number of years, we 
have voluntarily disclosed the CEO pay ratio compared with our 
employees globally and compared with the average GMC member. 
This year, in light of the incoming UK rules, we have included CEO pay 
ratios compared with our UK employees in the remuneration report. 
The figures I have quoted here are in comparison with our global 
employee-base as we feel this provides a more robust and inclusive 
measure of pay outcomes for our wider workforce.

Diversity and gender pay gap
We are committed to creating an inclusive working environment 
and ensuring employee diversity. Talented people are celebrated 
and valued at Schroders, whatever their gender, age, race, sexual 
orientation, disability, religion, beliefs or other characteristics. We 
pride ourselves on always being open to different ways of thinking. 

This year, we have continued working to increase the representation 
of women in senior management roles, having been one of the first 
signatories of the Women in Finance Charter in the UK. We are 
targeting 33% women within senior management by the end of 
2019, having achieved our initial target of 30% women within senior 
management during the first quarter of 2017. At the end of 2018, 
female representation in senior management was 32% and we remain 
committed to achieving our target over the remainder of this year. 
We have published more information on diversity and gender pay 
in a separate report on our website at schroders.com/inclusion.

Our analysis of comparable roles continues to show that we reward 
men and women fairly for similar work. Our gender pay gap reflects 
the lower representation of women at senior levels within the 
organisation. Our work to promote senior management diversity is 
reflected in improvements in our gender pay gap (page 78). Since our 
first disclosure, in respect of 2016 pay outcomes, the gap for mean 
salaries and cash allowances has narrowed from 31% to 29%, while 
the gap for the median narrowed from 33% to 30%. The gap for the 
mean bonus has narrowed from 66% to 60%. The gap for the median 
bonus has narrowed from 59% to 56%. This is slightly wider than in 
2017, when it was 53%, reflecting a higher number of female new 
joiners at junior levels in 2018 as part of our strategy to improve 
the diversity of the firm in the longer term. 

Diversity extends beyond gender. During the year-end compensation 
review, we consider bonus outcomes through both a gender and an 
ethnicity lens to ensure that recommendations are appropriate and 
help identify any unconscious bias. We will be encouraging our people 
to complete their diversity profiles, to allow us to begin reporting on 
other measures of diversity. There remains more to do and we are 
actively identifying additional steps to address this.

Nichola Pease
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

69

GovernanceRemuneration report continued

Remuneration at a glance

1. Our remuneration principles

The overall remuneration policy is designed to promote the long-term success of the Group. The Committee has developed the remuneration 
policy with the following principles in mind:

Aligned with 
clients

A significant proportion of higher-earning employees’ and material risk takers’ variable remuneration 
is granted as fund awards, which are notional investments in funds managed by the Group, thereby 
aligning the interests of employees and clients. This includes the executive Directors, other members 
of the GMC and other key employees such as senior fund managers.

Aligned with 
shareholders

A significant proportion of variable remuneration is granted in the form of deferred awards over 
Schroders shares, thereby aligning the interests of employees and shareholders. Executive Directors 
and other members of the GMC are required, over time, to acquire and retain a significant holding of 
Schroders shares or rights to shares. On stepping down, the executive Directors are required to 
maintain a level of shareholding for two years.

Aligned with 
financial 
performance

The total spend on remuneration is managed as a percentage of net income, the total compensation 
ratio. This ratio is determined by the Committee and recommended to the Board. This approach 
aligns remuneration with financial performance.

The bottom section of this table outlines how each of our key performance indicators is factored into 
determining the variable elements of the executive Directors’ remuneration.

Competitive

Employees receive a competitive remuneration package, which is reviewed annually and 
benchmarked by reference to the external market. This allows us to attract and retain highly talented 
people, who know that good performance will be rewarded.

Designed to 
encourage 
retention

Deferred variable remuneration does not give rise to any immediate entitlement. Awards normally 
require the participant to be employed continuously by the Group until at least the third anniversary 
of grant in order to vest in full.

Each of our key performance indicators (see pages 16 and 17) is factored into determining the 
variable elements of the executive Directors’ remuneration, as set out below:

Our key 
performance 
indicators

LTIP  
vesting  
(based on  
NNB and EPS)

Retention  
of key talent

AUMA 

A key driver  
of AUM, 
which in turn 
drives net 
operating 
revenue and 
EPS. 

Included as 
an LTIP 
metric. Also a 
key driver of 
AUM.

Not directly 
reflected in 
LTIP vesting 
but critical to 
delivery of 
business 
results. 

Changes to 
AUMA drive 
net income 
and EPS. 

Net operating 
revenue

A key element 
of profit and 
EPS.

Ratio of total 
costs to net 
income

A key 
indicator of 
profitability, 
which drives 
EPS.

Basic EPS

Included as  
an LTIP   
metric.

Dividend  
per share

EPS feeds 
through to 
the dividend 
per share.

Annual bonus 
awards

The Committee considers all of our key performance indicators in assessing the performance of the business and of each 
of the executive Directors, when they are determining annual bonus awards for the executive Directors (see page 82).

70 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Linking 
remuneration 
with our strategy 
and financial 
performance

Client 
investment 
performance NNB

2. Our remuneration policy for the executive Directors

Executive Directors’ remuneration policy illustrations
The Directors’ remuneration policy was approved by shareholders at our 2017 AGM, on 27 April 2017, and is summarised on our website at 
schroders.com/directors-remuneration-policy. The diagram below illustrates the structure of the executive Directors’ remuneration, including 
the timing of when they receive each component of their total remuneration, across the following:

 – Fixed components of pay, for salary, benefits and allowances based on when they are paid or enjoyed, and for retirement benefits based 

on when contributions are made or cash in lieu is paid

 – The different components of any annual bonus award, showing for each portion when it will be paid or available to exercise

 – The LTIP performance and holding periods, based on the LTIP awards to be granted following the financial year-end

LTIP

4-year deferral, subject to performance conditions, followed by a 1-year holding period

Holding period

Shares

3.5-year deferral

3-year deferral

2.5-year deferral

2-year deferral

Funds

Shares

Funds

Shares

1.5-year deferral

Funds

1-year deferral

Shares

6-month 
holding 
period

Upfront 
fund 
award

Cash

Deferred portion of any annual bonus 
award granted half as a deferred fund 
award, available to exercise in equal 
instalments after 1.5, 2.5 and 3.5 years 
from grant through to the 5th anniversary 
of grant, and half as a deferred share 
award, available to exercise in equal 
instalments after 1, 2 and 3 years from 
grant through to the 10th anniversary 
of grant.

Upfront portion of any annual bonus 
award paid half in cash in February after 
the end of the performance year and half 
granted as an upfront fund award that is 
subject to a 6-month holding period, 
available to exercise through to the 5th 
anniversary of grant.

Feb

Sep

Mar

Sep

Mar

Sep

Mar

Sep

Mar

Sep

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

Mar

2024

Deferred  
Award  
Plan (DAP) 
awards

80% of total 
annual bonus 
award

Cash (20% of 
total annual 
bonus award)

Fixed pay

Performance year 
2018

The table below outlines other key aspects of our remuneration policy for the executive Directors.

Component

Policy overview

Malus and 
clawback policy

Malus terms allow deferred remuneration awards to be reduced or lapsed, at the Committee’s discretion, until they have 
been paid or settled. Clawback terms allow amounts that have been paid or settled to be recovered for a period of up to 
12 months from the date of payment or release, at the Committee’s discretion. Under the Group’s malus and clawback 
policy, these terms can be used to risk-adjust deferred remuneration awards in a range of circumstances. In addition, the 
executive Directors’ contracts extend clawback terms to the upfront cash portion of any annual bonus awards, in the event 
of individual misconduct.

Personal 
shareholding 
policy

To align their interests with those of shareholders, the executive Directors are required to acquire and retain a holding 
of Schroders shares or rights to shares equivalent to 300% of base salary, or 500% of base salary for the Group Chief 
Executive. On stepping down as an executive Director, half that level of shareholding must be maintained for two years.

Equity 
Compensation 
Plan (ECP)

The ECP is one of the Group’s main deferral arrangements for annual bonus awards, alongside the DAP. Deferred bonuses 
for employees who are not UCITS / AIF MRTs, including the executive Directors’ deferred bonuses prior to performance-year 
2018, are delivered as a combination of ECP fund awards and ECP share awards. Malus and clawback terms apply. Since 
2018, the executive Directors’ deferred bonuses have been granted under the DAP but they still hold ECP awards relating 
to previous deferred bonuses (see pages 87 and 88).

Equity 
Incentive Plan 
(EIP)

The EIP is an additional deferred remuneration plan, used to reward exceptional performance and potential. EIP awards 
do not give rise to any immediate entitlement and normally require the participant to be employed continuously by the 
Group until the fifth anniversary of grant. If a participant resigns before the fifth anniversary of grant, awards are normally 
forfeited in full. Malus and clawback terms apply. Executive Directors are not eligible to be granted new EIP awards but 
Peter Harrison holds an EIP share award granted in 2013, prior to his appointment to the Board (see page 88).

For more information on the policy see schroders.com/directors-remuneration-policy and on the implementation of the policy during 2019 
see page 90.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

71

GovernanceRemuneration report continued

3. How we performed in 2018

The charts below provide an overview of Schroders’ performance. Pages 14 and 15 provide information on our strategy for 2018 and beyond, and 
pages 16 and 17 give more information on our key performance indicators. Pages 82 to 84 outline the basis for determining annual bonus awards 
for the executive Directors and the expected vesting of LTIP awards granted in March 2015.

Performance of Schroders shares against the FTSE-100 Index and the relative spend on pay
The left-hand chart below compares the performance of Schroders shares with that of the FTSE-100 over 10 years to 31 December 2018.  
Over this period, the index has returned 121%, compared with a 278% return on Schroders ordinary shares and a 334% return on Schroders 
non-voting ordinary shares. The right-hand chart shows how net income has been utilised over the same period, as we have continued to invest 
for future growth, comparing remuneration costs before exceptional items and shareholder distributions to taxes arising and earnings retained. 
Distributions to shareholders in respect of 2018 formed a similar proportion of the total as they did for 2017.

Value of £100 invested on 31 December 2008

£600

£500

£400

£300

£200

£100

£0

2008 2009

2010

2011

2012

2013 2014 2015 2016

2017

2018

Schroders ordinary shares

  Schroders non-voting ordinary shares 

FTSE-100 Index

£millions

£2,500

£2,000

£1,500

£1,000

£500

£0

Net income 2018 was £2,124 million,
 up 161% since 2009

24%

15%

22%

11%
13%

15%

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

Fixed remuneration
Other operating expenses
Retained earnings

Variable remuneration
Corporate tax and social security
Interim and final dividend

Other key factors in assessing the performance of the Group (see pages 82 to 83)
The following key performance indicators were among those that formed part of the Committee’s determination of the executive Directors’ pay. 
In reviewing performance, the Committee has looked to separate Schroders-specific performance from general market factors and recognised 
that the Board agreed and is supportive of the strategy of investing in a targeted way to enhance our future growth opportunities (see page 6), 
which increased our costs in 2018.

Client investment
performance over 3 years (%)

Net new business (£bn)

AUMA (£bn)

2017

2018

74

74

2017

2018

(9.5)

9.6

2017

2018

447.0

421.4

Target ≥ 60%

Target: positive NNB

Target: AUMA growth in excess of market growth

Retention of key talent (%)

Ratio of total costs
to net income* (%)

Basic earnings per share* (p)

2017

2018

94

94

2017

2018

61

64

2017

2018

226.9

215.8

Target ≥ 90%

Target = 65%

Target: grow consistently recognising potential impact 
of market volatility

Determining the vesting of LTIP awards granted in March 2015 (see page 84)
LTIP awards granted in March 2015 are expected to lapse without vesting on 7 March 2019, based on two metrics as set out below.

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

Vesting (% of award)

Earnings
per share (EPS)

Net new
business (NNB)

Growth in composite index

40.2%

+20%

+20%

Schroders EPS growth

21.0%

£bn

0

10

Schroders cumulative NNB 

£14.2bn

Target 
range

30

20

Target 
range

Total expected to vest in relation to 2015 to 2018 performance

 *

 Before exceptional items.

Criteria met

Partially met

Not met

72 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

0%

0%

0%

4. Our executive Directors’ remuneration and shareholdings

The chart below compares the single total remuneration figures for 2017 and 2018 for each executive Director role. This is shown alongside an 
illustration of the potential value of each component of remuneration for each executive Director role, showing the split of fixed components of 
remuneration, annual bonus awards and LTIP awards in accordance with the Directors’ remuneration policy, based on the highest, average and 
lowest remuneration over the 10 years ended 31 December 2018.

Executive Director Single total remuneration figure (£’000)

Group Chief Executive
Peter Harrison

2017

8%

2018

8%

19%

19%

19%

19%

27%

27%

27%

27%

Illustration for highest

Illustration for average

Illustration for lowest

Chief Financial Officer
Richard Keers

2017

13%

16%

16%

23%

23% 9%

2018 14% 18% 18%

25%

25%

Illustration for highest

Illustration for average

Illustration for lowest

 7,059

 6,735

 9,073

 6,522

 2,867

 3,494

 3,027

 3,579

 2,693

 1,377

Fixed pay

Upfront bonus – cash

Upfront bonus – fund award

Deferred bonus – fund award

Deferred bonus – share award

LTIP vesting

For 2017 and 2018, the charts reflect the values shown in the single total remuneration figure table on page 79. For the illustrations of the highest, 
average and lowest remuneration values:

 –  Fixed pay consists of the anticipated annualised amounts of base salary, benefits, allowances and retirement benefits from 1 March 2019. 

This is in line with the value shown for 2018 in the single total remuneration figure on page 79.

 –  The total value of annual bonus awards is based on the sum of bonus and fixed pay each year over the 10 years ended 31 December 2018. 
The highest, average and lowest of those annual total values is used for the scenarios. The fixed pay value outlined above is deducted from 
each, to provide an illustration of potential bonus value. The annual bonus award value is then split into upfront cash, an upfront fund award 
and deferral into fund and share awards as outlined in the policy.

 –  The value shown for LTIP is based on the grant-date face value of the award to be granted in March 2019, assuming 100% vesting for the 

illustration for a highest scenario, 50% vesting for the illustration for average and 0% vesting for the illustration for lowest.

The total remuneration values used in these scenarios for the Group Chief Executive reflect the remuneration awarded to Peter Harrison for 
performance in 2016 to 2018, and to his predecessor Michael Dobson for performance in 2009 to 2015. For the Chief Financial Officer they reflect 
the remuneration awarded to Richard Keers for performance in 2013 to 2018, and to his predecessor Kevin Parry for performance in 2009 to 2012.

The chart below compares each executive Director’s shareholdings with that required under the personal shareholding policy.

Value of shareholding vs. shareholding policy (% of salary)

Group Chief Executive
Peter Harrison

Policy

Actual

Chief Financial Officer
Richard Keers

500%

Policy

300%

802%

Actual

460%

For more information on the single total remuneration figures see pages 79 to 84 and on the personal shareholding policy see page 87.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

73

GovernanceRemuneration report continued

Remuneration governance

Responsibilities of the Committee
The responsibilities of the Committee include:

 – Reviewing the Group’s remuneration strategy and recommending 

the Directors’ remuneration policy to the Board

 – Determining the remuneration of executive Directors within the 

policy approved by shareholders

 – Determining the remuneration of the Group Company Secretary; 
reviewing the remuneration of the Heads of Compliance, Risk, 
Internal Audit and the General Counsel; monitoring the level and 
structure of remuneration for other senior employees and material 
risk takers; and overseeing remuneration more broadly across 
the Group

 – Recommending to the Board the annual spend on fixed and 

variable remuneration

 – Reviewing the design and operation of share-based remuneration 

and other deferred remuneration plans

 – Overseeing any major change in the employee benefits structure 

throughout the Group

 – Reviewing the remuneration disclosures required and ensuring 

compliance with those requirements

 – Receiving and considering feedback from shareholders and 

representative shareholder bodies

The Committee’s terms of reference are available on our website 
at schroders.com/ir.

All members of the Committee are independent non-executive 
Directors. Biographical details and the experience of Committee 
members are set out on pages 48 and 49.

At the invitation of the Committee Chairman, the Group Chairman 
attended seven meetings, the Group Chief Executive and Chief 
Financial Officer attended six meetings and Bruno Schroder attended 
four. No Director or employee participates in decisions determining 
his or her own remuneration.

The Group Head of Risk, the General Counsel, the Global Head of 
Compliance and the Group Head of Internal Audit also advised the 
Committee on matters that could influence remuneration decisions 
and attended meetings if required. The Chief Executive Officer, Asia 
Pacific attended one meeting to advise the Committee on 
remuneration arrangements within his remit. The Committee 
appointed PwC as independent remuneration advisers in July 2018 
and PwC attended three meetings in that capacity, in addition to 
attending one meeting prior to that appointment to advise the 
Committee on market practice and conditions for directors’ 
remuneration and compliance with remuneration regulations. 
The Global Head of Human Resources and the Head of Compensation 
and Benefits attended meetings to provide advice and support 
the Committee.

Key areas of focus during the year
The table below summarises the key issues that the Committee 
considered at each of its meetings during 2018. Remuneration 
packages for new hires, severance arrangements for roles subject 
to the Committee’s oversight and regulatory developments were 
reviewed at each meeting as required. In addition, the Board as a 
whole reviewed the remuneration strategy in November 2018 
(see page 57).

Meeting 
date

January

Key issues considered

 – Compensation review 2017
 – Remuneration disclosures
 – Forecast vesting of 2014 LTIP grants
 – Performance conditions for 2018 LTIP grants
 – Malus and clawback policy
 – Internal audit of remuneration compliance

February

 – Compensation review 2017
 – Carried interest-sharing arrangements 

in particular business areas

May

 – Shareholder and voting agency feedback 

on remuneration

 – Review of advisers to the Committee 
 – Review of the Committee’s terms of reference
 – Alignment of remuneration to client and 

shareholder interests

 – Annual performance objectives of the Group 

Chief Executive

 – Post-employment restrictive covenants 
 – Remuneration and carried interest 

arrangements in particular business areas

June

 – Remuneration arrangements in particular 

business areas

July

 – Executive Directors’ remuneration review

October

 – Executive Directors’ remuneration review 
 – Compensation review 2018
 – Principles and delegation for carried 

interest-sharing arrangements

 – Approval of EIP grants
 – Remuneration arrangements in particular 

business areas 
 – Gender pay gap
 – Group risk adjustment framework for 

remuneration

 – Material risk taker framework and population 
 – Internal audit of remuneration compliance

December

 – Compensation review 2018
 – Sustainability of earnings
 – Risk, legal, compliance and internal audit 

matters

 – Remuneration disclosures
 – Forecast vesting of 2015 LTIP grants
 – Carried interest-sharing and co-investment 

eligibility in particular business areas 

 – Remuneration benchmarking
 – Total compensation ratio target for 2019

74 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Shareholder voting on remuneration
At the 2018 AGM, shareholders approved the remuneration report that was published in the 2017 Annual Report and Accounts. Shareholders 
approved the Directors’ remuneration policy at the 2017 AGM and that policy applies for three years from the date of approval. The results of 
these votes are shown below.

To approve the remuneration report  
at the 2018 AGM

To approve the Directors’ remuneration policy  
at the 2017 AGM

4%

96%

  Votes for
  Votes against
(Votes withheld)

6%

94%

2018 AGM voting
183,227,563
7,971,986
32,292

  Votes for
  Votes against
(Votes withheld)

2017 AGM voting
 181,963,125
12,623,229
461,454

To approve the relevant remuneration report

Votes for

Votes against

To approve the relevant Directors’ remuneration policy

Votes for

Votes against

2014 AGM

2015 AGM

2016 AGM

2017 AGM

2018 AGM

2014 AGM

2017 AGM

94%

97%

96%

95%

96%

6%

3%

4%

5%

4%

92%

94%

8%

6%

External advisers
The Committee appointed or received advice from the advisers shown in the table below. Advisers were selected on the recommendation of the 
Global Head of Human Resources and the Head of Compensation and Benefits.

Appointed 
by

Services provided 
to the Committee

Other services  
provided to the Group

Fees paid for advice to the 
Committee during 2018 on 
executive Director pay (£’000)

PwC

The 
Committee

Independent advisers to the 
Committee

HR consulting services and advice to 
management on remuneration 
design, regulatory implications, tax, 
social security, governance, 
operational and technical issues

McLagan 
(Aon) Limited 
(McLagan)

The 
Committee

Information on market 
conditions and competitive rates 
of pay

Information on market conditions 
and competitive rates of pay

130

2

From July 2018, the Committee engaged PwC to provide independent 
advice as they are among the market leaders in this area, with a good 
understanding of the firm through their existing HR consulting 
engagement with Schroders. A fixed fee structure has operated since 
appointment to cover standard services, with any exceptional items 
charged on a time/cost basis. PwC also provide professional services 
in the ordinary course of business, including tax, consulting, 
regulatory compliance and other advice to the Group. PwC ceased to 
be the Group’s external auditor following the 2018 AGM in April 2018.

The Committee is satisfied that the advice received from McLagan  
was independent and objective, as it was factual and not judgemental. 
McLagan is part of Aon plc, which also provides advice and services to 
the Company in relation to pension benefit valuations and pension 
actuarial advice. McLagan’s fees were charged on the basis of  
a fixed fee for the preparation of reports setting out the  
information requested.

The Committee assesses the performance of its advisers, the 
associated fees and the quality of advice provided annually, to ensure 
that it is independent of any support provided to management.

Evaluating the performance of the Committee
The annual evaluation of the Committee’s effectiveness was 
undertaken as part of the overall Board evaluation process. 
The findings relating to the Committee were discussed with the 
Committee Chairman. The overall view was that the Committee 
had operated effectively and had discharged its duties diligently. 
The transition of the Chair from Lord Howard to Nichola Pease had 
been managed smoothly.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

75

Governance 
 
Remuneration report continued

Annual report on remuneration

Pages 76 to 90 constitute the annual report on remuneration. 
Shareholders will have an advisory vote on this section, together with 
the Committee Chairman’s statement on pages 68 and 69, and the 
information on remuneration governance on pages 74 and 75, at the 
AGM. Where required, this information has been audited by EY.

This section sets out remuneration outcomes for 2018, across 
Schroders as a whole and specifically for the executive and non-
executive Directors, and compares them to remuneration outcomes 
for 2017. The Directors’ remuneration was managed in line with the 
policy approved by shareholders at the 2017 AGM, as outlined in our 
2017 Annual Report and Accounts.

This section also sets out the context for the Directors’ remuneration, 
including the main performance metrics that the Committee 
considered when setting the overall annual bonus pool and 
information on how annual bonus awards were allocated across the 
Group. It details the key performance criteria considered when 
determining executive Directors’ annual bonus awards. Returns to 
shareholders over the past 10 years are compared with the total 
remuneration of the Group Chief Executive over the same period. 
Directors’ rights under fund and share awards and the share interests 
of Directors and their connected persons are also detailed.

Aligning pay and performance across Schroders
Group performance
Net operating revenue excluding exceptional items increased 3% in 
2018, despite ongoing pressure on fee margins. The Group’s profit 
before tax and exceptional items was £761.2 million, down 5%, and 
basic EPS before exceptional items of 215.8 pence, down 5%, though 
2017 included unusually high performance fees and a non-recurring 
regulatory-driven accounting benefit. The Board is recommending a 
final dividend of 79 pence, bringing the total dividend for the year to 
114 pence, an increase of 1 pence.

Net outflows were £9.5 billion (2017: net inflows of £9.6 billion). AUMA 
ended the year at £421.4 billion (2017: £447.0 billion) and 74% 
(2017: 74%) of our internally-managed Asset Management AUM 
outperformed its stated comparator in the three years to 
31 December 2018.

Further information on the Group’s operating and financial 
performance can be found in the strategic report, beginning on page 
1. The table on pages 14 and 15 outlines the Group’s strategy. Pages 
16 and 17 show our performance against our key performance 
indicators over the five years to 31 December 2018.

Aligning remuneration costs with financial 
performance
The total spend on remuneration is derived from the total 
compensation ratio, measuring total remuneration expense against 
net income. This aligns the interests of employees with the Group’s 
financial performance.

The Committee received a report on the underlying strength and 
sustainability of the business and reports on compliance, legal, risk 
and internal audit matters from the heads of those areas. These were 
considered as part of the 2018 compensation review.

The Committee determined the annual bonus pool for the year ended 
31 December 2018 based on a total compensation ratio of 43% 
(2017: 43%). The total compensation ratio is below our target range 
of 45% to 49%, as the Committee and the Board as a whole remain 
mindful of the challenges the asset management industry faces. From 
2017 to 2018, headcount is up 9% and fixed remuneration costs are 
up 12%. The annual bonus pool was down 7%, or down 12% based on 
the mean bonus per bonus-eligible employee, assuming constant 
currency rates in each case (as shown in the table on page 77).

Key performance metrics

Key remuneration metrics

Net income*

+15%

Headcount

+3%

+11%

+9%

Profit before tax*

+24%

Fixed remuneration costs*

+15%

Earnings per share*

(5)%

(5)%

+22%

Annual bonus pool

Dividend per share

+22%

Total remuneration costs*

+1%

2017 vs. 2016
2018 vs. 2017

 * Before exceptional items.

2017 vs. 2016
2018 vs. 2017

+12%

+12%

+11%

(7)%

+2%

76 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Relative spend on pay
The charts below illustrate the relative spend on pay for 2018 compared with 2017. The values are taken from the financial statements and show 
how remuneration costs before exceptional items compare with shareholder distributions, taxes arising and earnings retained, to illustrate how 
net income is utilised. Distributions to shareholders in respect of 2018 formed a similar proportion of the total to that for 2017.

2017

15%

22%

15%

12%

12%

5%

19%

Fixed remuneration
Variable remuneration
– upfront
Variable remuneration 
– deferred
Other operating expenses
Corporate tax and 
social security
Retained earnings
Interim dividend paid and
final dividend recommended

vs.
2016

£464.4m +15%
£239.9m
+2%

£105.7m

+17%

£387.3m
£242.9m

+9%
+24%

£319.8m
£308.9m

+24%
+22%

2018

13%

11%

15%

24%

10%

5%

22%

Fixed remuneration
Variable remuneration
– upfront
Variable remuneration 
– deferred
Other operating expenses
Corporate tax and 
social security
Retained earnings
Interim dividend paid and
final dividend recommended

vs.
2017

£518.5m +12%
£218.6m
(9)%

£102.0m

(3)%

£459.5m
£227.4m

+19%
(6)%

£286.1m
£311.8m

(11)%
+1%

The annual bonus pool and annual bonus award allocations across the Group
The Group Chief Executive allocates the overall pool between the divisions or functions headed by GMC members, taking into consideration the 
objectives, both financial and non-financial, that were set at the beginning of the year. Variable remuneration awards for individual employees, 
other than those determined by the Committee or the Group Chief Executive, are recommended to the Group Chief Executive by members of the 
GMC, taking account of individual performance against objectives, the performance of the relevant business area and the levels of reward for 
comparable roles in the market. 

The Committee determines the remuneration for the executive Directors and Group Company Secretary, monitors and reviews remuneration for 
other GMC members, control function heads and other MRTs, and also provides oversight of the compensation review outcomes for employees 
more broadly. For 2018, the Committee was satisfied that the year-end process was rigorous and that the allocation of the pool and the individual 
bonus awards took account of both financial and non-financial performance, including conduct and behaviours as described on page 89.

The table below compares the annual bonus pools for 2018 and 2017, divided into amounts paid in cash, upfront fund awards and amounts 
deferred into fund awards and share awards. The 2017 figures are also shown after adjustment to the foreign exchange rates used during the 
2018 compensation review, to provide a better comparison of what was awarded to employees each year.

Total compensation ratio

Annual bonus awards:

– paid in cash

– granted in upfront fund awards

– deferred into fund awards

– deferred into share awards

Bonus pool

Proportion of bonus pool that is deferred

Number of bonus-eligible employees

Mean annual bonus award per bonus-eligible employee

Median annual bonus award per bonus-eligible employee

Group Chief Executive’s bonus as a % of the bonus pool

Aggregate bonuses to executive Directors as a % of the bonus pool

1.  Adjusted to the same foreign exchange rates as those used for the 2018 figures.

2018

43%

£m

195.9

28.1

51.0

55.5

330.5

32%

4,169

£79,270

£18,500

1.9%

2.7%

Adjusted
20171

n/a

£m

204.5

30.9

58.3

60.6

354.3

34%

3,914

£90,526

£20,000

1.8%

2.6%

2017

43%

£m

208.7

31.2

59.1

61.4

360.4

33%

3,914

£92,070

£20,000

1.8%

2.6%

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

77

Governance 
 
 
 
Remuneration report continued

Comparison of the percentage change in base salary, 
benefits and annual bonus award
The chart below compares, for each of base salary, benefits and 
annual bonus award, the percentage change from 2017 to 2018 for 
the Group Chief Executive with the average year-on-year percentage 
change across employees of the Group taken as a whole 
(except where noted).

Comparison of the percentage change in value from 
2017 to 2018

Base salary1

+0%

+3%

+7%

+6%

Benefits2

Bonus3

(5)%

(5)%

Peter Harrison
Employees of the Group

1.  For base salary, employees of the Group are those who were in employment 
for the full year to 31 December 2018 and represents the average salary 
increase during 2018.

2.  For benefits, employees of the Group are those who were in employment 

in the UK for the full year to 31 December 2018 and represents the average 
change in benefits value during 2018.

3.  For bonus, employees of the Group are bonus-eligible employees who were 

in employment for all of 2018 and 2017.

The Group Chief Executive received no base salary increase in 2018. 
Salary increases across the Group during 2018 were targeted at 
employees whose roles had increased in scope materially during the 
year and those whose fixed pay significantly lagged behind market 
rates. Particular attention was also given to those on lower salaries, 
for whom fixed pay forms a greater proportion of total remuneration.

Peter Harrison’s annual bonus award for 2018 was 5% lower than for 
2017, reflecting significant strategic progress against a backdrop of an 
increasingly difficult market environment. The mean annual bonus 
award decrease for bonus-eligible employees who worked in the 
Group for all of 2018 and 2017 was 5%, as shown above, and the 
median was 3%. Individual annual bonus awards for 2018 compared 
with 2017 varied from an increase in excess of 100% to a reduction to 
zero bonus, reflecting our pay for performance philosophy.

78 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Female representation and gender pay
Schroders was one of the first signatories of the Women in Finance 
Charter in the UK, as part of our commitment to promote diversity 
of thought and ensure Schroders is an inclusive place to work. Our 
commitment is broader than gender and more information on our 
approach to diversity can be found on page 32. 

We originally committed to increase the representation of women in 
senior management from 25% at the end of 2015 to 30% by the end of 
2019. As a result of the progress we made during 2017, we increased 
this target to 33% female representation in senior management by 
the end of 2019. At the end of 2018, our female representation in 
senior management was 32%. We have increased female 
representation on the GMC from 7% to 31% since the end of 2016 and 
continue to focus on the pipeline of female talent immediately below 
the GMC, where female representation is currently 26%.

The data below illustrates the representation issue by looking at the 
proportion of employees by gender according to quartile pay bands, 
based on hourly fixed pay, reflecting base salary and cash allowances.

The proportion of female vs. male employees according to quartile pay bands

Top quartile of employees  
based on hourly fixed pay

2nd quartile

3rd quartile

Bottom quartile

Total workforce

22% females,  78% males

39% females,  61% males

48% females,  52% males

59% females,  41% males

42% females, 58% males

Our analysis of pay levels for comparable roles shows that male and 
female employees are paid fairly for similar work. However, the lower 
representation of women at senior levels within the Group, which is an 
issue across the financial services sector, is reflected in the gender pay 
gap shown below. This looks across the total workforce and sets out 
the gender pay gap for both hourly fixed pay, as described above, and 
total variable pay, consisting of the annual bonus awarded in respect 
of 2018 plus any other deferred remuneration awards during the year. 

Hourly 
fixed pay

The amount by which the male 
median exceeds the female median, 
as a % of the male median

The amount by which the male 
mean exceeds the female mean, 
as a % of the male mean

Total 
variable 
pay

The amount by which the male 
median exceeds the female median, 
as a % of the male median

The amount by which the male 
mean exceeds the female mean, 
as a % of the male mean

Schroders globally

30%
 (2017: 31%)

29%
(2017: 30%)

56%
(20171: 53%)

60%
(20171: 62%)

The proportion of female and 
male employees who received 
variable pay

93% of females, 
94% of males 
(2017: 93% / 95%)

1.  2017 comparatives restated to include deferred bonuses.

Most of these gender pay gaps have narrowed year-on-year, as we 
have increased female representation at more senior levels. The 
median bonus gap is narrower than when we first published our 
gender pay gap in 2016 but slightly wider than 2017, reflecting a 
relatively high number of female new joiners at junior levels. More 
information on diversity and inclusion at Schroders, including our UK 
disclosures, can be found on our website at schroders.com/inclusion.

Single total remuneration figure for each executive Director (audited)
The total remuneration of each of the executive Directors for the years ended 31 December 2018 and 31 December 2017 is set out below.

£’000

Base salary

Benefits and allowances

Retirement benefits

Total fixed pay

Annual bonus award

LTIP vested

Total variable pay

Peter Harrison

Richard Keers

Total

2018

500

15

45

560

2017

500

14

45

559

2018

375

7

45

427

6,175

6,500

2,600

–

–

–

6,175

6,500

2,600

2017

375

9

45

429

2,750

315

3,065

2018

875

22

90

987

8,775

–

8,775

2017

875

23

90

988

9,250

315

9,565

Total remuneration

6,735

7,059

3,027

3,494

9,762

10,553

Methodology for determining the single total remuneration figure:

Base salary

Represents the value of salary earned and paid during the financial year. 

Benefits and allowances

Includes one or more of: private healthcare, life assurance, permanent total disability insurance, Share 
Incentive Plan matching shares, car parking and private use of a company car and driver. 

Retirement benefits
– see page 84

Annual bonus award
– see pages 81 to 83

LTIP vested
– see page 84

Represents the aggregate of contributions to defined contribution (DC) pension arrangements and cash in 
lieu of pension for Peter Harrison, and cash in lieu of pension for Richard Keers. The table on page 84 shows 
how the retirement benefits figures above are comprised for each Director.

Represents the total value of the annual bonus award for performance during the relevant financial year. 
Page 81 breaks down the bonus into cash paid through the payroll and the upfront fund awards, deferred 
fund awards and deferred share awards that will be granted in March 2019. Pages 82 and 83 set out the basis 
on which annual bonus awards for 2018 were determined.

Represents the estimated value that is expected to vest on 7 March 2019 from LTIP awards granted on  
9 March 2015. More information on the performance achieved, how vesting will be determined and the value 
shown is provided on page 84. The comparative value shown for 2017 represents the actual value that vested 
on 1 March 2018 from LTIP awards granted on 10 March 2014. The 2017 LTIP vested values disclosed last 
year were estimates, as the Annual Report and Accounts was finalised prior to the vesting date.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

79

GovernanceRemuneration report continued

Competitive positioning
We compete for talent in a global marketplace. Most of our key 
competitors are headquartered outside the UK, particularly in the US, 
and many are not publicly listed and are therefore subject to lower 
standards of transparency. It is against this backdrop that the 
Committee determines both our pay structures and levels of pay, 
to ensure that we are able to attract, motivate, reward and retain 
the best talent.

Remuneration levels for employees, including the executive Directors, 
are reviewed annually and benchmarked by reference to the external 
market to ensure they remain appropriately competitive. The chart 
below illustrates the competitive positioning of pay for each executive 
Director, while the table on the right provides additional commentary 
on the remuneration benchmarking approach in each case. Total 
compensation (abbreviated in the chart to total comp.) reflects base 
salary at the year end, annual bonus award for 2018 and the 
grant-date face value of any LTIP award granted during the year 
(see page 86), assuming 50% vesting. The market data used in 
benchmarking these roles was provided independently by external 
advisers and reflects competitor pay for 2017, which is the most 
up-to-date data available, whereas the competitive position shown 
for Schroders in each case reflects remuneration awarded for 2018.

In considering competitiveness, the Committee focuses on levels 
of pay for comparable roles at other large international asset 
management firms, though the benchmark peer group is adjusted 
for some roles to provide a more appropriate comparison. This 
benchmarking is used to establish a frame of reference for what 
competitors are paying for comparable roles, rather than as the start 
point or a primary factor when remuneration decisions are made. As 
outlined on pages 82 and 83, annual bonus awards are based on the 
Committee’s assessment of the overall performance of the business 
and of each executive Director. The policy is to aim to pay executive 
Directors base salaries that are competitive with other large 
international asset management firms. As a result, it is likely that 
salaries will be relatively low when compared with other FTSE-100 
financial services firms and the FTSE-100 more broadly, as can be 
seen below.

Role

Commentary

Group Chief Executive

Chief Financial Officer

Approximately half of the global asset 
manager comparator roles are from 
non-listed businesses, including firms 
owned by a bank or insurance group 
and privately-owned businesses, whereas 
Schroders is an independent 
publicly-listed company. Schroders 
differs from most of the global asset 
managers in including Wealth 
Management within the Group Chief 
Executive’s remit, alongside Asset 
Management. As a result, the Schroders 
Group Chief Executive role sits among 
the more complex of the roles making 
up this competitive benchmark.

The Schroders Chief Financial Officer 
has wider responsibilities than the 
market norm, covering direct 
responsibility for a range of operational 
areas and firm-wide operational 
oversight and coordination, as well as 
financial management, risk 
management, capital and treasury, 
human resources and corporate 
communications. A comparison is also 
shown against the rates of pay for the 
Chief Operating Officer (COO) role at 
other global asset management firms, 
as an additional reference point to reflect 
these wider responsibilities.

Group Chief Executive
Peter Harrison

Chief Financial Officer
Richard Keers

Global asset
managers

FTSE-100
financial services

FTSE-100

Global asset
managers: CFO

Global asset
managers: COO

FTSE-100
financial services

FTSE-100

Top quartile

2nd quartile

3rd quartile

Bottom
quartile

Base
salary

Total
 comp.

Base
salary

Total
 comp.

Base
salary

Total
 comp.

Base
salary

Total
 comp.

Base
salary

Total
 comp.

Base
salary

Total
 comp.

Base
salary

Total
 comp.

Positioning of remuneration at Schroders relative to the market benchmarks

80 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Performance of Schroders shares against the FTSE-100 Index and the Group Chief Executive’s total remuneration

The graph on the right compares the total 
shareholder return of Schroders shares with 
that of the FTSE-100, of which Schroders is a 
long-standing constituent. Over the past 10 
years, the index has returned 121%, compared 
with a 278% return for Schroders ordinary 
shares and 334% for Schroders non-voting 
ordinary shares. This graph also shows 
the Group Chief Executive’s single total 
remuneration figure over the 10 years ended 
31 December 2018, for comparison. The table 
below sets this out in figures, as well as showing 
how variable pay plans have paid out each year. 
It also shows the ratio of those single total 
remuneration figures to the mean and median 
total remuneration awarded to employees 
globally, to other members of the GMC and 
to employees in the UK.

Schroders ordinary shares
Schroders non-voting ordinary shares
FTSE-100 Index

Group Chief Executive’s total remuneration

8
8
0
0
0
0
2
2
r
r
e
e
b
b
m
m
e
e
c
c
e
e
D
D
1
1
3
3
n
n
o
o
d
d
e
e
t
t
s
s
e
e
v
v
n
n

i
i

0
0
0
0
1
1
£
£
f
f
o
o
e
e
u
u
a
a
V
V

l
l

600
600

500
500

400
400

300
300

200
200

100
100

0
0

10

8

6

4

2

0

Financial year

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

20163

20164

2017

2018

Michael Dobson Peter Harrison

Single total remuneration figure (£’000)

2,867 6,267 5,570 4,870 8,414 8,155 8,905 2,451 6,311 7,059 6,735

l

a
t
o
t
e
g
n
i
s

l

’

s
e
v
i
t
u
c
e
x
E
f
e
h
C
p
u
o
r
G

i

)

m
£
(
e
r
u
g
fi
n
o
i
t
a
r
e
n
u
m
e
r

Annual bonus award (actual award as a % of 10-year 
highest bonus)1

LTIP (vesting as a % of maximum)2

Ratio of single total remuneration 
figure to employees as a whole

Ratio of single total remuneration 
figure to GMC members

Ratio of single total remuneration 
figure to UK employees’ full-time 
equivalent total remuneration

30% 73% 65% 56% 81% 87% 100% 25% 70% 82% 78%

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a 100% 50% 50% 50% 50%

n/a

0%

to employee mean

23 x

37 x

32 x

30 x

45 x

44 x

47 x

13 x

33 x

35 x

37 x

to employee median

44 x

85 x

67 x

60 x

99 x

92 x

93 x

23 x

60 x

64 x

63 x

to GMC mean 

2.0 x

2.5 x

2.3 x

2.8 x

3.5 x

2.9 x

3.3 x

1.3 x

3.3 x

3.3 x

3.3 x

to GMC median

2.4 x

2.8 x

2.5 x

2.8 x

3.8 x

3.1 x

3.4 x

1.3 x

3.4 x

3.1 x

3.5 x

to upper quartile

to median

to lower quartile

37 x

65 x

101 x

1.  No maximum annual bonus opportunity was in place so each annual bonus award is shown as a percentage of the highest bonus award over the past 10 years.
2.  The years from 2009 to 2012 are shown as ‘n/a’ as the LTIP was introduced in May 2010 and the first award vested on 5 March 2014 based on the four-year 

performance period ended on 31 December 2013. 2017 shows as ‘n/a’ as Peter Harrison did not receive an LTIP award in 2014 and so had no LTIP due to vest based 
on performance to the end of 2017.

3.  The 2016 remuneration for Michael Dobson reflects the actual remuneration that he received for the portion of 2016 that he served as Chief Executive.
4.  Peter Harrison was appointed Group Chief Executive on 3 April 2016. The 2016 remuneration value above reflects his full-year single total remuneration figure.

Variable pay – annual bonus award (audited)
The table below sets out details of how the annual bonus award for each executive Director for performance during 2018 was delivered. 
These values are reflected in the single total remuneration figure for each executive Director on page 79.

DAP award

2018 (£’000)

Peter Harrison

Richard Keers

Upfront cash 
bonus award

Upfront  
fund award

Deferred 
fund award  

Deferred 
share award

Total  
DAP award

Total annual 
bonus award

Percentage 
deferred1

1,273

545

1,272

545

1,815

755

1,815

755

4,902

2,055

6,175

2,600

59%

58%

1.  In calculating the value of each executive Director’s annual bonus award that is deferred, 25% of the grant-date face value of the LTIP award granted in 2018 

(see page 86) is included in the calculation of the deferred element. This results in slightly less than 60% deferral.

Upfront fund awards cannot be exercised for six months from grant but are not normally at risk of forfeiture if the holder resigns and leaves 
the Group. Deferred fund awards normally require the holder to remain in employment for the 3.5 years following grant to vest in full and are 
available to exercise in three equal instalments after 1.5, 2.5 and 3.5 years from grant. Deferred share awards normally require the holder to 
remain in employment for the three years following grant to vest in full and are available to exercise in three equal instalments after 1, 2 and 3 
years from grant.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

81

Governance 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Remuneration report continued

Basis for determining annual bonus awards
In determining the annual bonus award for the executive Directors, the Committee made an assessment of the overall performance of the 
business using our key performance indicators, which are aligned to the Group’s strategy, as outlined on pages 14 and 15. An assessment of each 
individual’s performance was also made, including business performance within each individual’s responsibilities, and the extent to which they 
have met annual objectives.

Financial factors such as profitability, cost control and investment performance represent the majority of measures the Committee considers to 
ensure that remuneration outcomes are aligned to the value created for shareholders. Both short-term and long-term performance are taken into 
account. Strategic progress is also a key element of the Committee’s consideration. Non-financial factors such as risk management, conduct and 
employee engagement are also considered, although normally have less prominence in determining the annual bonus award.

Based on its assessment of performance, the Committee applied its judgement to determine annual bonus awards, without attaching a weighting 
to each performance factor or setting a value payable for achievement of each target. The Group Chief Executive’s recommendation was taken 
into account for the Chief Financial Officer. 

Group-wide factors considered when determining the executive Directors’ annual bonus awards include:

Criteria

Target

Performance in 2018

Extent to which target has been met

Financial factors

Trend in profit 
for the year1 
and 
appropriate 
cost control

Ratio of total cost to 
net income 65%.
Total compensation 
ratio 45% to 49% 
depending on 
market conditions.

Client 
investment 
performance1

At least 60% 
outperformance 
over three years.

64% (2017: 61%).
43% (2017: 43%).

Financial performance in 2018 has been weaker, in 
line with budget, as we continued to invest for 
future growth. The cost base has been managed 
well during a period of more challenging market 
conditions and our key ratios are below our target.

74% (2017: 74%).

Investment performance over three years  
remains strong.

NNB1

Achieve budgeted 
new business flows.

£(9.5)bn (2017: £9.6bn).

AUMA1

Grow over time in 
excess of market 
growth.

£421.4bn (2017: £447.0bn).

Net operating 
revenue1

Grow over time as 
AUMA increases.

£2.1bn (2017: £2.0bn).

215.8p (2017: 226.9p).

NNB was significantly behind budget, in part 
reflecting more challenging market conditions but 
also a large outflow from a single Institutional 
client towards the end of the year in Asia Pacific. 
Wealth Management saw net inflows.

AUMA decreased by 6% as global markets declined 
and investor sentiment worsened.

Net operating revenue increased 3% during 2018 
as average AUMA increased.

In 2018, basic EPS before exceptional items was 
215.8 pence.

Basic EPS1

Dividend per 
share1

Share price 
performance

Grow consistently, 
recognising the 
potential impact of 
market volatility on 
results in the short 
term.

Increase dividends 
progressively in line 
with the trend in 
profitability.
Maintain a payout 
ratio of 
approximately 50%.

Total shareholder 
returns in excess of 
that of the FTSE-100 
Index.

Strategic factors

The recommended final dividend of 79 
pence per share would bring the total 
dividend for the year to 114 pence per 
share, representing a payout ratio of 53%.

There continues to be sufficient capital to maintain 
our current dividend level for at least 3 years 
before taking account of any future profits (see 
page 29).

Over one, three and five years, the return on 
ordinary shares was -28%, -9% and 9%, and 
on non-voting ordinary shares was -14%, 4% 
and 25% respectively, versus FTSE-100 
returns of -9%, 22% and 21% respectively.

Schroders continues to create value for 
shareholders over the long term (see page 81).

Strategic 
progress

Progress in identified 
areas of growth: Asia 
Pacific, North 
America, Fixed 
Income, Multi-asset, 
new products and 
solutions, Wealth 
Management, 
Technology and 
Private Assets and 
Alternatives.

2018 saw significant progress across a number of strategically important areas:
 – We announced a wide-ranging partnership with Lloyds Banking Group and a joint venture 

with Maybank Asset Management.

 – Our momentum in North America continued, with £3.0bn of NNB.

 – We launched 70 new products, focused on strategically important growth areas such as 

sustainability, private assets and solutions.

 – We added to our Private Assets and Alternatives business with the acquisition of Algonquin, 

and acquired an associate stake in A10.

 – Recent acquisitions, including Benchmark Capital and Adveq, continued to perform strongly.

82 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Group-wide factors continued:

Criteria

Target

Performance in 2018

Extent to which target has been met

Non-financial factors

Talent retention1 
and succession 
planning

Diversity and 
inclusion

Retention of at least 90% of 
key talent. 
Identify and implement 
succession plans for key 
employees.

33% female representation 
within senior management 
by the end of 2019.

94% retention (2017: 94%).

32% (2017: 29%).

Risk management 
and good conduct

Key issues considered by 
Audit and Risk Committee.

No significant issues 
identified during the year.

1.  Included in the key performance indicators on pages 16 and 17.

Retention of key talent remains above target. 
Succession plans for key employees were reviewed by 
the Board in November 2018. A new Head of Talent 
has been recruited to help strengthen and support 
our internal talent pipeline.

Our original target was 30% but we later increased 
this to 33%. At the end of 2018, this ratio was 32%. 
Improving diversity further remains important.

Major business change including the transition to 
new technology platforms has been successfully 
implemented and the associated risks managed. See 
also the Audit and Risk Committee Report (page 66) 
and information on conduct, compliance and risk 
management in remuneration (page 89).

Individual performance criteria considered when determining the executive Directors’ annual bonus awards include:

Executive 
Director Criteria

Peter 
Harrison

Overall performance  
of the Group

Strategic progress in identified 
areas of growth

Retain and develop key talent 
and ensure succession plans are 
in place for all key roles

Performance in 2018 and extent to which the Committee judged each 
performance criterion has been met

Group performance is outlined on the previous page. We have made excellent progress 
on delivering our strategic goals but results are lower than budgeted in some areas, 
driven by the market volatility outlined on pages 10 and 11. We believe Schroders 
suffered to a similar degree as many other active managers. Wealth Management 
continued to see net inflows during 2018. Cost control in this difficult environment has 
remained strong, with targeted investment in the business to deliver future growth. 
Investment performance for clients remains ahead of our target.

2018 saw significant progress, as outlined above. In particular, Peter was integral to 
envisioning and delivering the partnership with Lloyds Banking Group, which was a 
highlight of the year in that it offers a transformational opportunity to expand our Wealth 
Management offering. During 2018, we also recruited a new Global Head of Private 
Assets who will join Schroders later in 2019.

Talent retention has been good and a number of people have been identified or 
appointed to key leadership positions. A new Global Head of Wealth Management was 
recruited in the year and an internal successor selected to succeed the Global Head of 
Equities in 2019. There remains further work to be done on planning senior management 
succession.

Drive sustainability at both the 
firm and industry level, ensuring 
our stakeholders understand the 
important role we deliver to 
society

Peter is Chairman of the Investment Association Board, a member of HM Treasury’s Asset 
Management Taskforce and sits on the advisory boards of the Diversity Project, CFA and 
CityUK. He has confirmed his position as an industry leader to take forward the debate in 
these areas. His contribution to inclusion, particularly for gender and LGBT+ groups, has 
been externally recognised.

Richard 
Keers

Deliver the Global Operations 
Committee strategy

2018 has been an important year for the firm’s operating platform, including the 
transition to a new investment technology platform and our new London headquarters.

Oversee a strong risk and 
control function

The Group Risk and Capital Committees continued to operate well under Richard’s 
leadership. No significant issues were reported in a year of significant operational change 
for the Group, with further improvements to internal risk-assessment processes. See the 
Audit and Risk Committee report from page 62.

Accurate, appropriate, clear and 
timely reporting and oversight of 
the Group’s financial position

Richard has helped ensure a smooth transition to a new external auditor for the firm.  
He received positive feedback from the Audit and Risk Committee, external auditors, 
analysts, shareholders and other industry bodies.

Criteria met

Partially met

Not met

The metrics and targets outlined above and on the previous page represent the most material criteria by which the Group’s performance and the 
performance of the executive Directors were assessed. The Committee members and the Board as a whole also review performance across a 
broad range of other metrics as part of their normal course of business throughout the year and during the year-end process. Performance 
against many of these metrics is disclosed in the half-year and annual results announcements and in the Annual Report and Accounts.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

83

GovernanceRemuneration report continued

Variable pay – determining vesting of prior LTIP awards (audited)
The LTIP awards granted on 9 March 2015, covering the 2015 to 2018 performance period, are expected to lapse without vesting on 
7 March 2019. The criteria for determining the extent of vesting are set out below. The composite index against which EPS performance was 
measured for these awards was set at the time they were granted, as 60% equities, measured by the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) 
All Country Index, and 40% fixed income, measured by the Barclays Capital Global Aggregate Index. Despite the strong performance of Schroders 
since these awards were granted, the very demanding targets will not be met.

Performance measure

EPS
If the growth of adjusted EPS in the fourth year compared with 
the year prior to grant exceeds the defined composite index by:

 – less than 20%
 – equal to 20%
 – between 20-40%
 – 40% or greater

no vesting
12.5% vests
straight-line basis
50% vests

NNB cumulative over the four-year performance period:

 – less than £15 billion
 – equal to £15 billion
 – between £15-25 billion
 – £25 billion or greater

no vesting 
12.5% vests 
straight-line basis
50% vests

Total expected to vest in relation to 2015 to 2018 performance

Maximum % 
of award

Performance achieved

Vesting % 
of award

50 The four-year growth in the MSCI All Countries Index 

0

was 48.0% and in the Barclays Capital Global 
Aggregate Index was 28.4%. Weighting them 60% 
and 40% respectively, growth of the composite index 
was 40.2%. Four-year growth in adjusted EPS was 
21.0%, which is less than the composite index and is 
insufficient to trigger any vesting of this part of the 
award.

50 The four-year cumulative NNB from 2015 to 2018 was 
£14.2 billion, which is insufficient to trigger any 
vesting of this part of the award.

0

0

The Audit and Risk Committee independently review key estimates made by management that impact the financial statements to ensure these 
are reasonable. This is reflected in the LTIP vesting calculations.

Value at vesting of prior LTIP awards (audited)
The following table shows, for each Director, the estimated value vesting from LTIP awards granted on 9 March 2015, based on the average 
closing mid-market share price over the three months ended 31 December 2018 and the expected vesting percentage shown above. For each 
executive Director, the total value expected to vest is reflected in the single total remuneration figures on page 79.

Individual

Date of grant

Peter Harrison

9 March 2015

Richard Keers

9 March 2015

Michael Dobson

9 March 2015

Philip Mallinckrodt 9 March 2015

Grant-date face 
value of LTIP award
£’000

Expected date 
of vesting

Estimated total value 
of LTIP award shares 
£’000

Proportion expected 
to vest in relation to 
2015-2018 
performance

Number of shares 
expected to vest

Estimated 
value vesting
£’000

800

400

800

400

7 March 2019

7 March 2019

7 March 2019

7 March 2019

665

333

665

367

0%

0%

0%

0%

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

The awards for Michael Dobson and Philip Mallinckrodt had been reduced pro-rata for the proportion of the performance period that each of 
them remained an employee of the Group.

Fixed pay – retirement benefits (audited)
The following table shows details of retirement benefits provided to executive Directors for the years ended 31 December 2018 and 
31 December 2017. For the executive Directors, the sum of employer contributions and cash in lieu each year is reflected in the single total 
remuneration figures on page 79. Employer contributions represent contributions paid into DC pension arrangements during the year and 
exclude any contributions made by the Directors. There has been no DB pension accrual since 30 April 2011. Accrued DB pensions are subject to 
actuarial reduction on early retirement so there is no enhanced benefit entitlement in these circumstances.

£’000

Peter Harrison

Richard Keers

2018 employer 
contributions

2018 cash in lieu
of pension1

2018 retirement 
benefits total

2017 employer 
contributions

2017 cash in lieu
of pension1

2017 retirement 
benefits total

10

–

35

45

45

45

10

–

35

45

45

45

Accrued DB 
pension at  
31 December
2018

–

–

Normal 
retirement
age2

60

60

1.  Peter Harrison received a combination of employer contributions to the Group’s DC pension arrangement and cash in lieu of pension contributions, and Richard 

Keers received cash in lieu of pension contributions. 

2.  Normal retirement age is the earliest age at which a Director can elect to draw their pension under the rules of the Schroders Retirement Benefits Scheme without 

the need to seek the consent of the Company or the pension scheme trustee.

84 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Fees from external appointments
The executive Directors are permitted to retain for their own benefit fees they receive from any external non-executive directorships, provided the 
directorships do not relate to any interest held by the Group. Richard Keers served as a non-executive member of the Franchise Board of Lloyds 
throughout 2018, for which he received fees of £77,500, including in respect of his membership and chairmanship of the Franchise Board’s Audit 
Committee during the year. These fees do not relate to the Group and so are not included in the single total remuneration figures on page 79. 
Peter Harrison does not receive any fees in respect of his external non-executive roles.

Non-executive Directors’ remuneration (audited)
The total remuneration of each of the non-executive Directors for the years ended 31 December 2018 and 31 December 2017 is set out below, 
based on the structure of non-executive Directors’ fees set out below the table.

2018

2017

£’000

Basic fee

Committee 
chairman

Committee 
member

Taxable 
benefits

SID

Total

Basic fee

Committee 
chairman

Committee 
member

Taxable 
benefits

SID

Michael Dobson

625

Robin Buchanan

Sir Damon Buffini

Rhian Davies

Rakhi Goss-Custard

Ian King

Philip Mallinckrodt

Nichola Pease

Bruno Schroder

Lord Howard

80

73

80

80

80

80

80

108

28

–

–

–

25

–

–

–

14

–

6

–

40

2

20

2

20

–

40

–

13

–

–

–

–

–

14

–

–

–

6

10

–

–

–

1

–

–

–

3

–

635

120

75

125

83

114

80

134

111

53

625

75

–

75

75

75

63

75

103

75

–

–

–

25

–

–

–

–

–

20

–

40

–

20

–

9

–

40

–

40

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

15

8

–

–

–

–

–

1

–

3

–

Total

633

115

–

120

75

84

64

115

106

150

Sir Damon Buffini was appointed to the Board with effect from 1 February 2018 and both Ian King and Rakhi Goss-Custard were appointed to the 
Board with effect from 1 January 2017. On 1 March 2017, Philip Mallinckrodt relinquished his executive responsibilities and continued on the 
Board of the Company as a non-executive Director. In each case, on appointment as non-executive Directors their fees were set at the same level 
as for other non-executive Directors. 

Lord Howard was SID and Remuneration Committee Chairman until he stood down from the Board on 26 April 2018. Ian King succeeded him as 
SID and Nichola Pease succeeded him as Remuneration Committee Chairman. The fees shown in each case reflect the portion of 2018 that they 
each served in these roles.

The benefits for Michael Dobson were private healthcare and medical benefits for him and his family, life assurance and occasional private use of 
a company car and driver. Benefits for Bruno Schroder were private healthcare and medical benefits. Benefits for Rakhi Goss-Custard were travel 
and accommodation expenses. Benefits for Philip Mallinckrodt were private healthcare for part of 2017 under the transitional arrangements after 
he relinquished his executive responsibilities.

Michael Dobson and Philip Mallinckrodt each received an LTIP award on 9 March 2015, when they were in executive roles on the Board. These 
LTIP awards are expected to lapse without vesting on 7 March 2019 as the performance conditions have not been met (see page 84).

The structure of non-executive Directors’ fees is shown below. 

Chairman

Board member1

Senior Independent Director

Audit and Risk Committee Chairman2

Audit and Risk Committee member

Nominations Committee Chairman

Nominations Committee member

Remuneration Committee Chairman2

Remuneration Committee member

1.  Bruno Schroder also received an additional annual fee of £28,000 for services to the Group.
2.  In addition to the Committee membership fee.

£

625,000 

80,000

20,000 

25,000

20,000

nil 

nil 

20,000

20,000 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

85

GovernanceRemuneration report continued

DAP and LTIP awards granted during 2018 (audited)
The following awards under the DAP were granted to Directors on 5 March 2018 in respect of deferred bonuses for performance during 2017.  
No further performance conditions need to be met for awards to vest but DAP awards normally require the participant to remain in employment 
with the Group until 3.5 years after the date of grant in order to vest in full. DAP fund awards are conditional rights to receive a cash sum based on 
the value of a notional investment in a range of Schroders funds. DAP share awards were granted as nil-cost options. These awards were included 
in the 2017 single total remuneration figures disclosed last year and form part of the prior year value shown in this year’s single total 
remuneration figures on page 79. They are also shown in the tables of Directors’ rights under fund and share awards on pages 87 and 88.

Individual

Basis of award granted

Face value at grant (£’000)

Upfront 
fund 
awards

Deferred 
fund 
awards

Deferred 
share 
awards

Total DAP 
Award

Share  
price at 
grant

Number  
of 
shares

Performance conditions

Peter Harrison

Richard Keers

Deferral of bonus awarded for 
performance in 2017

1,337

1,913

1,913

5,163 £33.47 57,140 Awarded for performance in 2017. 

575

800

800

2,175 £33.47 23,902

No further performance 
conditions apply.

The following awards under the LTIP were granted to Directors on 5 March 2018 as nil-cost options. These awards do not appear in the single 
total remuneration figure on page 79 as they are subject to performance conditions and will not vest until 2022. They are shown in the table of 
Directors’ rights under share awards on page 88.

Individual

Peter Harrison

Richard Keers

Basis of award 
granted as % 
of salary

Vesting maximum 
as % of face value

% of face value that 
would vest at 
threshold1

Face value at grant 
(£’000)

Share price
at grant

Number of
shares

End of performance 
period

120

107

100

100

25

25

600

400

£33.47

£33.47

17,926 31 December 2021

11,951 31 December 2021

1.  Performance under both the EPS and NNB performance measures at the threshold level to achieve non-zero vesting.

All DAP share awards and LTIP awards were granted over ordinary shares. The share price used to determine the number of shares under each 
DAP share award and LTIP award is the mid-market closing share price on the last trading day prior to the date of grant, and this is the price used 
to calculate the face value shown. The vesting of the LTIP awards is subject to the performance conditions set out on page 84. The composite 
index against which EPS performance will be measured for these awards is as follows:

Index

Morgan Stanley Capital International All Countries Asia Pacific

Morgan Stanley Capital International Emerging Markets

Morgan Stanley Capital International All Countries World

Morgan Stanley Capital International Europe

FTSE All Share

Barclays Capital Global Aggregate

Weighting
%

15.0

7.5

15.0

7.5

5.0

50.0

86 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Personal shareholding policy (audited)
To align the interests of senior management with those of 
shareholders, the executive Directors and the other members of the 
GMC are required, over time, to acquire and retain a holding of 
Schroders shares or rights to shares equivalent to 300% of base salary 
or, in the case of the Group Chief Executive, 500% of base salary. Each 
executive Director and GMC member undertakes not to sell any 
Schroders shares until their share ownership target has been reached. 
The executive Directors’ service contracts provide that, on stepping 
down as an executive Director, half the level of shareholding required 
while an executive Director must be maintained for two years, or the 
actual level of shareholding on stepping down if lower. 

For these purposes, rights to shares include the estimated after-tax 
value of unvested DAP, ECP or EIP share awards (shown as ‘unvested 
DAP, ECP or EIP awards’ on page 88) and DAP share awards in respect 
of performance in 2018 (see page 81). They do not include LTIP 
awards granted in 2015, as these are expected to lapse without 
vesting on 7 March 2019, or other unvested rights to shares from LTIP 
awards, as these are subject to performance conditions.

Each executive Director had achieved the current shareholding targets 
as at 5 March 2019, based upon the mid-market closing share price on 
that date. At this share price, a 10% share price movement equates to 
a change in the value of these shareholdings of £401,000 for the 
Group Chief Executive and £172,000 for the Chief Financial Officer.

The charts below compare the value of each executive Director’s 
shareholdings for these purposes as at 5 March 2019 with the 
shareholding required under the personal shareholding policy, 
as a percentage of salary.

Value of shareholding vs. shareholding policy 
(% of salary)

Group Chief Executive
Peter Harrison

Policy

Actual

500%

802%

Chief Financial Officer
Richard Keers

Policy

Actual

300%

460%

Directors’ rights under fund and share awards, and Directors’ share interests
This section outlines Directors’ rights at 31 December 2018 from fund and share awards granted under the Group’s deferred remuneration plans. 
It goes on to set out the total interests in shares of the Directors and their connected persons at 31 December 2018.

Directors’ rights under fund awards (audited)
Directors had the following rights under fund awards, based on the award values at grant:

Unvested DAP  
or ECP awards
£’000

Vested DAP  
or ECP awards
£’000

Peter Harrison

At 31 December 2017

Richard Keers

Granted

Vested

Exercised

At 31 December 2018

At 31 December 2017

Granted

Vested

Exercised

At 31 December 2018

Michael Dobson

At 31 December 2017

Vested

At 31 December 2018

Philip Mallinckrodt

At 31 December 2017

Vested

Exercised

At 31 December 2018

3,275

1,913

(950)

–

4,238

1,700

800

(531)

–

1,969

3,600

(1,675)

1,925

1,325

(450)

–

875

Total
£’000

3,275

3,250

–

–

1,337

950

(2,287)

(2,287)

–

–

575

531

(1,106)

–

–

1,675

1,675

537

450

(987)

–

4,238

1,700

1,375

–

(1,106)

1,969

3,600

–

3,600

1,862

–

(987)

875

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

87

GovernanceRemuneration report continued

Directors’ rights under share awards (audited)
Directors had the following rights to shares under the Group’s deferred remuneration plans, in the form of nil-cost options.

Unvested LTIP
awards1

Unvested DAP, 
ECP or EIP awards2

Vested DAP, ECP, 
EIP or LTIP awards

Total

Peter Harrison
(Ordinary shares)

At 31 December 2017

Granted

Richard Keers
(Ordinary shares)

Michael Dobson
(Ordinary shares)

Dividend-equivalent accrual

Vested

Exercised

At 31 December 2018

At 31 December 2017

Granted

Dividend-equivalent accrual

Vested

Lapsed where LTIP conditions were not met

Exercised

At 31 December 2018

At 31 December 2017

Dividend-equivalent accrual

Vested

Lapsed where LTIP conditions were not met

Philip Mallinckrodt
(Non-voting ordinary 
shares)

Exercised

At 31 December 2018

At 31 December 2017

Dividend-equivalent accrual

Vested

Lapsed where LTIP conditions were not met

Exercised

At 31 December 2018

60,168

17,926

–

–

–

78,094

55,738

11,951

–

(9,293)

(9,294)

–

49,102

24,661

–

(8,364)

(8,364)

–

7,933

32,578

–

(9,683)

(9,683)

–

141,697

32,566

234,431

57,140

5,836

(57,624)

–

1,166

57,624

75,066

7,002

–

–

(32,566)

(32,566)

147,049

61,798

23,902

2,364

58,790

15,232

–

652

(18,515)

27,808

–

–

69,549

136,585

2,755

(58,383)

–

–

80,957

64,791

2,094

(21,011)

–

–

–

(24,525)

19,167

242,324

10,592

66,747

–

(8,364)

311,299

221,948

1,005

30,694

–

283,933

132,768

35,853

3,016

–

(9,294)

(24,525)

137,818

403,570

13,347

–

(8,364)

(8,364)

400,189

319,317

3,099

–

(9,683)

13,212

45,874

31,699

90,785

(221,948)

(221,948)

1.  These awards will only vest to the extent that the relevant performance conditions are met. Includes LTIP awards granted on 9 March 2015, which were unvested as 

at 31 December 2018. These awards are expected to lapse on 7 March 2019 (see page 84).

2.  No performance conditions apply for these awards. Although executive Directors are not eligible to receive EIP awards, Peter Harrison received an EIP award in 

December 2013, prior to his appointment as an executive Director in May 2014.

During 2018, the aggregate gain on nil-cost options for Peter Harrison was £1,123,000, for Richard Keers was £841,000, for Michael Dobson was 
£284,000 and for Philip Mallinckrodt was £5,253,000. These related to awards settled in shares, which were granted between 2008 and 2014.

88 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Directors’ share interests (audited)
The Directors and their connected persons had the following interests in shares in the Company.

Executive Directors

Peter Harrison

Richard Keers

Non-executive Directors

Michael Dobson

Robin Buchanan

Sir Damon Buffini

Rhian Davies

Rakhi Goss-Custard

Ian King

Philip Mallinckrodt1

Nichola Pease

Bruno Schroder2

Number of shares at 31 December 2018

Ordinary shares

Non-voting
ordinary shares

579

570

–

–

144,612

193,416

–

–

–

669

–

80,985,757

93

13,881,416

9,839

5,000

1,000

–

2,641

6,346,615

951

1,482,417

1.  The interests of Philip Mallinckrodt set out above include his personal holdings and the beneficial interests held by him and his connected persons in their capacity as 

members of a class of potential beneficiaries under certain settlements made by members of the Schroder family.

2.  The interests of Bruno Schroder set out above refer to the position prior to his death on 20 February 2019. They include his personal holdings and beneficial interests 
that were held by him and his connected persons in their capacity as members of a class of potential beneficiaries under certain settlements made by members of the 
Schroder family.

Between 31 December 2018 and 5 March 2019, the only movements in the Directors’ share interests were the acquisition under the SIP of 19 
ordinary shares by Peter Harrison, 20 ordinary shares by Richard Keers and 14 ordinary shares by a connected person of Nichola Pease who is an 
employee of Schroders.

Payments to former Directors (audited)
Massimo Tosato stepped down from the Board and ceased to be an employee of Schroders at the end of 2016. As disclosed in the 2016 
remuneration report, the Committee exercised its discretion at that time to allow him to retain his unvested LTIP awards. The LTIP awards 
remained subject to performance conditions and in addition those awards have been reduced pro-rata for the proportion of the performance 
period that he remained an employee of the Group. The LTIP award granted to Massimo Tosato in March 2015 is expected to lapse without 
vesting on 7 March 2019. He was also granted an LTIP award in 2016, which is due to vest in 2020, subject to performance conditions.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

89

GovernanceRemuneration report continued

Conduct, compliance and risk 
management in remuneration
Schroders’ core values are excellence, innovation, teamwork, passion 
and integrity. We expand on these in our guiding principles to more 
clearly articulate the behaviours that we expect from our employees. 
Pages 32 and 33 provide more information on these and other key 
elements of our people strategy.

Performance management and remuneration are important tools 
to reinforce expected standards of behaviour. During the annual 
performance appraisal, line managers assess each employee’s 
behaviours, to identify those whose behaviour exemplifies our values 
as well as any employees whose behaviour falls short of the standards 
that we expect. To drive positive change and reinforce those 
behavioural expectations, we also operate a global employee 
recognition scheme, which provides an opportunity to recognise those 
who champion our values.

The Group’s control functions independently review potential conduct 
or cultural issues to identify any instances where performance or 
behaviours have fallen short of our expectations. Any issues identified 
in this way are fed into the performance appraisal and compensation 
review processes. This provides a further opportunity to reflect 
attitudes to risk and compliance and behaviours in line with our values 
in the determination or allocation of the bonus pool and in individual 
employee performance ratings and remuneration outcomes.

We identify employees whose professional activities can have 
a particular risk impact on the Group, or on certain regulated 
subsidiaries. Our approach to identifying these MRTs takes account of 
the different regulatory requirements and guidance that apply across 
the Group. Our MRTs are subject to enhanced scrutiny and oversight, 
including enhanced control function oversight of their activities and 
direct oversight of their remuneration by the Committee. Some MRTs, 
specifically those identified under the UCITS Directive or AIFMD, are 
subject to higher levels of bonus deferral and a higher proportion of 
remuneration in fund awards, creating greater alignment with clients 
and shareholders.

To ensure the Committee is adequately informed of risks facing the 
Group and the management of those risks, the Chairman of the 
Committee serves on the Audit and Risk Committee. The Committee 
also receives reports from the heads of Compliance, Legal, Risk and 
Internal Audit as part of its consideration of remuneration proposals.

The Committee reviewed the Group’s regulatory disclosures in the 
context of the applicable FCA and PRA requirements. The 
remuneration disclosures required under the Capital Requirements 
Directive are incorporated into the Group’s Pillar 3 disclosures and are 
available at schroders.com/ir. Other regulatory remuneration 
disclosures can be found at schroders.com/remuneration-disclosures.

Implementation of remuneration  
policy for 2019
Basis for determining executive Directors’ annual 
bonus awards for performance in 2019
Executive Directors’ annual bonus awards for performance in 2019 
will be based on broadly the same performance factors as were 
considered for 2018 (see pages 82 and 83). The process to determine 
awards will be unchanged. Targets are commercially sensitive and so 
both the targets and performance against those targets will be 
disclosed retrospectively in the 2019 annual report on remuneration. 
The Committee is able to consider corporate performance on ESG 
issues when setting remuneration of the executive Directors and is 
satisfied that the Directors’ remuneration policy and its 
implementation do not raise ESG risks by inadvertently motivating 
the wrong behaviours in the executive Directors.

The expectation is that the DAP will be used for deferred bonus 
awards to the executive Directors in respect of performance in 2019 
and future years. 

LTIP awards to be granted in 2019
In accordance with the Directors’ remuneration policy, the Committee 
intends to grant LTIP awards over shares with the following values to 
the executive Directors in March 2019:

Director

Peter Harrison

Richard Keers

LTIP face value at grant

£600,000

£400,000 

The vesting of these awards will be based on EPS and NNB 
performance conditions and targets as outlined on page 84. 
The Committee has reviewed the make-up of Schroders AUM at 
31 December 2018 to determine the indices and weightings that will 
make up the composite index against which EPS performance will be 
measured, as a proxy for the market movement of Schroders AUM. 
For awards to be granted in March 2019, the following weighted 
basket of indices will be used:

Index

Morgan Stanley Capital International All Countries Asia Pacific

Morgan Stanley Capital International Emerging Markets

Morgan Stanley Capital International All Countries World

Morgan Stanley Capital International Europe

FTSE All Share

Barclays Capital Global Aggregate

Weighting
%

17.5

7.5

15.0

5.0

5.0

50.0

Priorities for 2019

By Order of the Board.

As well as considering the standing items of business, the Committee 
will also focus on the following areas during 2019:

Nichola Pease
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee 

 – Regulatory developments and the potential impact on the structure 

6 March 2019

of remuneration at Schroders

 – Carried interest-sharing arrangements

90 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Directors’ report

The information contained in the sections of this Annual Report and 
Accounts identified below forms part of this Directors’ report:

 – Strategic report

 – Board of Directors

 – Corporate governance report, including the Nominations 

Committee report and the Audit and Risk Committee report

 – The Statement of Directors’ responsibilities.

Share capital
Schroders has developed under stable ownership for more than 200 
years and has been a public company whose ordinary shares have 
been listed on the London Stock Exchange since 1959. The Company’s 
share capital is comprised of ordinary shares of £1 each and non-
voting ordinary shares of £1 each. The ordinary shares have a 
premium listing on the London Stock Exchange and the non-voting 
ordinary shares have a standard listing on the London 
Stock Exchange.

226,022,400 ordinary shares (80% of the total issued share capital) 
were in issue throughout the year. The Company has no authority 
to issue or buy back any ordinary shares. Each ordinary share carries 
the right to attend and vote at general meetings of the Company. 
56,505,600 non-voting ordinary shares (20% of the total issued share 
capital) were in issue throughout the year. No shares were held 
in treasury.

The non-voting ordinary shares were created in 1986 to facilitate the 
operation of an employee share plan without diluting the voting rights 
of ordinary shareholders. The non-voting ordinary shares carry the 
same rights as ordinary shares except that they do not provide the 
right to attend and vote at general meetings of the Company and that, 
on a capitalisation issue, they carry the right to receive non-voting 
ordinary shares rather than ordinary shares.

When the non-voting ordinary shares were created, the ratio of 
ordinary shares to non-voting ordinary shares was 4:1. The Company 
has at times issued non-voting ordinary shares, principally in 
connection with the Group’s employee share plans or as consideration 
for an acquisition. The Company has not intended and does not intend 
to increase the issued non-voting ordinary share capital over the 
medium term and therefore has, at times, bought back non-voting 
ordinary shares to maintain the 4:1 ratio.

At the 2018 AGM, shareholders renewed the Directors’ authority 
to issue 5,000,000 non-voting ordinary shares in order to provide the 
Directors with the flexibility to issue non-voting ordinary shares or 
to grant rights to subscribe for, or convert securities into, non-voting 
ordinary shares. Shareholders also gave approval for the Company 

to buy back up to 14,100,000 non-voting ordinary shares, which will 
expire at the 2019 AGM. Renewal of these authorities will be sought 
at the 2019 AGM which will be held at 11.30 a.m. on 2 May 2019. At 
the 2019 AGM, the Directors will ask for shareholder authority for the 
dis-application of pre-emption rights in relation to the issue of up 
to 5,000,000 non-voting ordinary shares, to provide flexibility.

Under the terms of the Schroders Employee Benefit Trust and the 
Schroder US Holdings Inc. Grantor Trust, ordinary and non-voting 
ordinary shares are held on trust on behalf of employee share plan 
participants. The trustees of these trusts may exercise the voting 
rights in any way they think fit. In doing so, they may consider the 
financial and non-financial interests of the beneficiaries and their 
dependents. As at 5 March 2019, being the latest practicable date 
before the publication of this Annual Report and Accounts, the 
Schroders Employee Benefit Trust and the Schroder US Holdings Inc. 
Grantor Trust together held 8,842,901 ordinary shares and 97,369 
non-voting ordinary shares.

Under the terms of the Share Incentive Plan, as at 5 March 2019, 
710,436 ordinary shares were held in trust on behalf of plan 
participants. At the participants’ direction, the trustees can exercise 
the voting rights over ordinary shares in respect of participant 
share entitlements.

There are no restrictions on the transfer of the Company’s shares 
save for:

 – Restrictions imposed by laws and regulations;

 – Restrictions on the transfer of shares imposed under the Company’s 
Articles of Association or under Part 22 of the UK Companies Act 
2006, in either case after a failure to supply information required to 
be disclosed following service of a request under section 793 of the 
UK Companies Act 2006; and

 – Restrictions on the transfer of shares held under certain employee 

share plans while they remain subject to the plan.

The Company is not aware of any agreement between shareholders 
that may restrict the transfer of securities or voting rights. 

Substantial shareholdings
As at 31 December 2018, the Company had received notifications, 
in accordance with rule 5.1.2R of the Disclosure Guidance and 
Transparency Rules, of interests in 3% or more of the voting rights 
attaching to the Company’s issued share capital, as set out in the table 
below. There had been no changes to these notifications or additional 
notifications as at the date of this report.

Member

Vincitas Limited1
Veritas Limited1
Flavida Limited2
Fervida Limited2
Harris Associates L.P.3
Lindsell Train Limited3

Class of shares

No. of voting rights held

% of voting rights held

Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary

60,724,609
36,795,041
60,951,886
39,724,396
11,443,978
11,312,070

26.87
16.28
26.97
17.58
5.06
5.01

1.  Vincitas Limited and Veritas Limited are trustee companies which act as trustees of certain settlements made by members of the Schroder family. Vincitas Limited and 

Veritas Limited are party to the Relationship Agreement.

2.  Flavida Limited and Fervida Limited are protector companies which act as protectors of certain settlements made by members of the Schroder Family. Flavida Limited 

and Fervida Limited are parties to the Relationship Agreement. Their interests in shares are principally in respect of shares in which Vincitas Limited and Veritas 
Limited are also interested. 

3.  Harris Associates L.P. and Lindsell Train Limited are not party to the Relationship Agreement.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

91

GovernanceDirectors’ report continued

Relationship Agreement
Following changes made to the UK Listing Rules in May 2014, 
companies with a shareholder or shareholders who could, when 
acting in concert, exercise 30% or more of the voting rights of a 
company at a general meeting, are required to enter into a binding 
agreement with that shareholder or shareholders. This is intended to 
ensure that the parties to the agreement comply with certain 
independence provisions as set out in the Listing Rules. Accordingly, 
on 14 November 2014, the Company entered into such an agreement 
(the ‘Relationship Agreement’) with a number of shareholders who 
own or control the ordinary shares (and associated voting rights) 
referred to on page 91. 

The Schroder family interests are in shares owned directly or indirectly 
by trustee companies which act as trustees of various trusts settled by 
family individuals, in shares owned by family individuals, and in shares 
owned by a family charity. The trustee holdings include the interests 
(43.15%) held by Vincitas Limited and Veritas Limited, as disclosed in 
the table on page 91, and further interests (1.6%) held by two other 
trustee companies which are not required to be disclosed under the 
Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules.

If aggregated, the total interests covered by the Relationship 
Agreement including shares held by the trustee companies, 
individuals and the family charity amount to 108,323,711 of the 
Company’s ordinary shares (47.93%).

In accordance with Listing Rule 9.8.4(14), the Board confirms that for 
the year ended 31 December 2018:

 – the Company has complied with the independence provisions 

included in the Relationship Agreement; and

 – so far as the Company is aware, the independence provisions 

included in the Relationship Agreement have been complied with by 
the other parties to the Relationship Agreement and their 
associates.

Dividends
The Directors are recommending a final dividend of 79 pence per 
share which, if approved by shareholders at the AGM, will be paid on 
9 May 2019 to shareholders on the register of members at close of 
business on 29 March 2019. Details on the Company’s dividend policy 
are set out on page 29. Dividends payable in respect of the year, 
subject to this approval, along with prior year payments, are set 
out below.

Ordinary shares and  
non-voting ordinary shares

Interim

Final

Total

2018

2017

£m

pence

pence

35.0

95.7

79.0*

216.1

£m

92.9

216.0

34.0

79.0

114.0*

311.8

113.0

308.9

 * Subject to approval by shareholders at the 2019 AGM.

The Schroders Employee Benefit Trust and the Schroder US Holdings 
Inc. Grantor Trust have waived their rights to dividends paid on both 
the ordinary and non-voting ordinary shares in respect of 2018 and 
future periods. See notes 7 and 21 to the financial statements.

Corporate Responsibility
Details of the Company’s employment practices, including diversity 
and employee involvement can be found in the Strategic report from 
page 31. 

We are committed to minimising the environmental impact of 
our operations and to delivering continuous improvement in our 
environmental performance. See page 38 for more details on our total 
CO2e emissions data.

92 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Indemnities and Insurance
At the 2007 AGM, shareholders authorised the Company to provide 
indemnities to, and to fund defence costs for, Directors in certain 
circumstances. All Directors, at the time shareholder approval was 
received, were granted specific deeds of indemnity and any Director 
appointed subsequently has been granted such an indemnity. This 
means that, on their appointment, new Directors are granted an 
indemnity as defined in the Companies Act 2006 in respect of any 
third-party liabilities that they may incur as a result of their service on 
the Board. All Directors’ indemnities were in place during the year and 
remain in force.

Directors’ and Officers’ Liability Insurance is maintained by the 
Company for all Directors.

As part of the integration of Cazenove Capital, the Cazenove Capital 
Management Limited Pension Scheme was merged with the 
Schroders Retirement Benefits Scheme, with effect from 
31 December 2014. Pursuant to that merger, a qualifying pension 
scheme indemnity (as defined in section 235 of the Companies Act 
2006) provided by Schroders plc for the benefit of the Directors of 
Cazenove Capital Management Pension Trustee Limited, a subsidiary 
of the Company, was put in place at that time and remains in force.

This indemnity covers, to the extent permitted by law, certain losses or 
liabilities incurred by the Directors of Cazenove Capital Management 
Pension Trustee Limited in connection with that company’s activities 
as trustee of the Cazenove Capital Management Limited 
Pension Scheme.

Directors’ conflicts of interest 
The Company has procedures in place to identify, authorise and 
manage conflicts of interest, including of Directors of the Company, 
and they have operated effectively during the year. In circumstances 
where a potential conflict arises, the Board (excluding the Director 
concerned) will consider the situation and either authorise the 
arrangement in accordance with the Companies Act 2006 and the 
Company’s Articles of Association, or take other appropriate action. 

All potential conflicts authorised by the Board are recorded in a 
conflicts register, which is maintained by the Company Secretary and 
reviewed by the Board on an annual basis. Directors have a continuing 
duty to update the Board with any changes to their conflicts 
of interest.

Change of control
The Company does not consider that it has any significant agreements 
to which the Company is a party that take effect, alter or terminate 
upon a change of control of the Company following a takeover bid 
that are required to be disclosed pursuant to paragraph 13(2) (j) of 
Schedule 7 of the Large and Medium Sized Companies and Groups 
(Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 (as amended) other than as 
disclosed below:

Under the Group’s Revolving Credit Facility Agreement, if a change of 
control of the Company occurs, the lenders are not obliged to provide 
further funding under the facility. The Company and lenders have up 
to 30 days to agree the continued use of the facility. If there is no 
agreement, repayment of the facility and accrued interest may be 
requested by the lenders with not less than 10 days’ notice.

Under a Framework Agreement with Lloyds Banking Group plc (LBG) 
in relation to the strategic partnership announced on 
23 October 2018, a change of control of the Company to: (1) either a 
major competitor of LBG or (2) an entity or person on, or controlled by 
an entity or person on, a recognised sanctions list or located in a 
specified jurisdiction, LBG may terminate the Framework Agreement. 
Such termination provisions provide for LBG and the Company to 
return to the status quo prior to establishing the strategic partnership 

in relation to shareholdings in subsidiary entities, with any 
transactions conducted at a specified valuation.

Directors’ and employees’ employment contracts do not normally 
provide for compensation for loss of office or employment as a result 
of a change of control. However, the provisions of the Company’s 
employee share schemes may cause awards granted to employees 
under such schemes to vest on a change of control.

Political donations
No political donations or contributions were made or expenditure 
incurred by the Company or its subsidiaries during the year (2017: nil) 
and there is no intention to make or incur any in the current year.

UK Listing Authority Listing Rules (LR) – compliance 
with LR 9.8.4C
The majority of the disclosures required under LR 9.8.4 are not 
applicable to Schroders. The table below sets out the location of the 
disclosures for those requirements that are applicable:

Applicable sub-paragraph within LR 9.8.4

Disclosure provided

(12) Details of any arrangements under which 
a shareholder has waived or agreed to waive 
any dividends.
(13) Where a shareholder has agreed to waive 
future dividends, details of such waiver 
together with those relating to dividends which 
are payable during the period under review.
(14) A statement made by the Board that the 
Company has entered into an agreement 
under LR 9.2.2A, that the Company has, and, as 
far as it is aware, the other parties to the 
agreement have, complied with the provisions 
in the agreement.

See page 92

See pages 92, 109, 
and 134

See page 92

Going concern
The Group’s business activities, together with the factors likely to 
affect its future development, performance and position are set out in 
the Strategic report. In addition, the financial statements include 
information on the Group’s approach to managing its capital and 
financial risk; details of its financial instruments and hedging activities; 
and its exposures to credit and liquidity risk.

The Group has considerable financial resources, a broad range of 
products and a geographically diversified business. As a consequence, 
the Directors believe that the Group is well placed to manage its 
business risks in the context of the current economic outlook.

Accordingly, the Directors have a reasonable expectation that the 
Company and the Group have adequate resources to continue in 
operational existence for the foreseeable future. They therefore 
continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the Annual 
Report and Accounts.

In addition, the Directors have assessed the Company’s viability over 
a period of five years. The results of this assessment are set out on 
page 42.

By Order of the Board.

Graham Staples
Company Secretary

6 March 2019

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 

93

GovernanceIn addition, each of the Directors considers that this Annual Report 
and Accounts, taken as a whole, is fair, balanced and understandable 
and provides the information necessary for shareholders to assess 
the Company’s performance, business model and strategy.

The Directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of 
the audited financial information on the website at schroders.com. 

Legislation in the UK governing the preparation and dissemination of 
financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.

Forward-looking statements
This Annual Report and Accounts and the Schroders website may 
contain forward-looking statements with respect to the financial 
condition, performance and position, strategy, results of operations 
and businesses of the Company and the Group. Such statements and 
forecasts involve risk and uncertainty because they are based on 
current expectations and assumptions but relate to events and 
depend upon circumstances in the future and you should not place 
reliance on them. Without limitation, any statements preceded or 
followed by or that include the words ‘targets’, ‘plans’, ‘believes’, 
‘expects’, ‘confident’, ‘aims’, ‘will have’, ‘will be’, ‘will ensure’, ‘estimates’ 
or ‘anticipates’ or the negative of these terms or other similar terms 
are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. There are 
a number of factors that could cause actual results or developments 
to differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-
looking statements and forecasts. Forward-looking statements and 
forecasts are based on the Directors’ current view and information 
known to them at the date of this Annual Report and Accounts. The 
Directors do not make any undertaking to update or revise any 
forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, 
future events or otherwise. Nothing in this Annual Report and 
Accounts should be construed as a forecast, estimate or projection 
of future financial performance.

Statement of Directors’ responsibilities

The Directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Report and the 
Consolidated financial statements in accordance with applicable law 
and regulations.

The Companies Act 2006, being the applicable law in the UK, requires 
the Directors to prepare financial statements for each financial year. 
The Directors have prepared the Group and the Company financial 
statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting 
Standards (IFRS) as adopted by the EU. Under the Companies Act 
2006, the Directors must not approve the financial statements unless 
they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of 
affairs of the Company and the Group and of the profit or loss of the 
Group for that period.

In preparing those financial statements the Directors are required to:

 – Select suitable accounting policies and then apply them 

consistently.

 – Make estimates and judgements that are reasonable and prudent. 

 – State that the financial statements comply with IFRS as adopted by 
the EU, subject to any material departure disclosed and explained 
in the financial statements.

 – Prepare the financial statements on a going concern basis, unless 

it is inappropriate to presume that the Group will continue in 
business, in which case there should be supporting assumptions 
or qualifications as necessary.

The Directors are also required by the Disclosure and Transparency 
Rules of the FCA to include a management report containing a fair 
review of the business and a description of the principal risks and 
uncertainties facing the Company and the Group.

The Directors are responsible for keeping proper books of accounting 
records that are sufficient to show and explain the Company’s 
transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the 
financial position of the Company and the Group and to enable them 
to ensure that the financial statements and the Remuneration report 
comply with the Companies Act 2006 and, as regards the Group 
financial statements, Article 4 of the International Accounting 
Standards Regulation. They are also responsible for safeguarding 
the assets of the Company and the Group and hence for taking 
reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and 
other irregularities.

Directors’ statement
Each of the Directors, whose name and functions are listed in the 
Board of Directors section of this Annual Report and Accounts, 
confirms that, to the best of each person’s knowledge and belief:

The consolidated financial statements, prepared in accordance with 
IFRS as adopted by the EU and in accordance with the Companies Act 
2006, give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial 
position and profit of the Company and the Group.

The Directors’ report contained in this Annual Report and Accounts 
which comprises the sections described on page 91, includes a fair 
review of the development and performance of the business and 
the position of the Company and the Group and a description of 
the principal risks and uncertainties that they face.

So far as the Director is aware, there is no relevant audit information 
of which the Company’s auditors are unaware.

The Director has taken all the steps that ought to have been taken 
as a Director in order to make himself or herself aware of any relevant 
audit information and to establish that the Company’s auditors are 
aware of that information.

94 

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018

Financial statements

Financial statements contents

Consolidated financial statements  
Consolidated income statement 
Consolidated statement of comprehensive income 
Consolidated statement of financial position 
Consolidated statement of changes in equity 
Consolidated cash flow statement 

Notes to the accounts
Segmental reporting 
1. 
Net operating revenue 
2. 
Net gain on financial instruments and other income 
3. 
Operating expenses 
4. 
Tax expense 
5. 
Earnings per share 
6. 
Dividends 
7. 
Trade and other receivables 
8. 
Financial assets 
9. 
Associates and joint ventures 
10. 
11. 
Property, plant and equipment  
12.  Goodwill and intangible assets 
13.  Deferred tax 
14.  Unit-linked liabilities and assets backing unit-linked liabilities 
15. 
16. 
17. 
18.  Derivative contracts 
19. 
20. 
21.  Own shares 
22. 
23. 
24. 
25. 
26. 
27. 
28. 

Reconciliation of net cash from operating activities 
Commitments 
Retirement benefit obligations 
Share-based payments 
Related party transactions 
Interests in structured entities 
Business combinations 

Trade and other payables 
Financial liabilities 
Provisions and contingent liabilities 

Financial instrument risk management 
Share capital and share premium 

Presentation of the financial statements 

Schroders plc financial statements
Schroders plc – Statement of financial position 
Schroders plc – Statement of changes in equity 
Schroders plc – Cash flow statement 

Significant accounting policies 
Expenses and other disclosures 
Trade and other receivables 
Trade and other payables 

Schroders plc – Notes to the accounts
29. 
30. 
31. 
32. 
33.  Deferred tax 
34. 
35.  Own shares 
36. 
37.  

Related party transactions 
Subsidiaries and other related undertakings 

Financial instrument risk management 

96
96
97
98
99

100
102
105
107
108
109
109
110
111
114
116
117
118
119
120
121
122
124
126
133
134
135
136
137
141
144
145
147

149

151
152
153

153
154
154
154
155
155
155
156
157

Independent auditor’s report 

168

95

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements

Consolidated income statement
for the year ended 31 December 2018

Revenue

Cost of sales

Net operating revenue

Notes

Before 
exceptional 
items
£m

2,626.4

(555.7)

2

2,070.7

2018

Exceptional
items2
£m

2017

Before 
exceptional 
items
£m

Exceptional
items2
£m

Total
£m

–

–

–

2,626.4

2,511.7

(555.7)

(501.5)

2,070.7

2,010.2

–

–

–

Total
£m

2,511.7

(501.5)

2,010.2

Net gain on financial instruments and other income

Share of profit of associates and joint ventures

3

10

33.3

19.9

(13.0)

(0.8)

20.3

19.1

35.2

23.5

Net income

Operating expenses

Profit before tax

Tax

Profit after tax1

Earnings per share

Basic

Diluted

Total dividend per share

(3.5)

(1.8)

(5.3)

31.7

21.7

2,063.6

2,123.9

(13.8)

2,110.1

2,068.9

4

(1,362.7)

(97.5)

(1,460.2)

(1,268.6)

(34.8)

(1,303.4)

761.2

(111.3)

649.9

800.3

(40.1)

760.2

5(a)

(163.3)

597.9

18.1

(93.2)

(145.2)

504.7

(171.6)

628.7

5.8

(34.3)

(165.8)

594.4

6

6

7

215.8p

211.8p

(32.7)p

(32.1)p

183.1p

179.7p

226.9p

222.4p

(11.6)p

(11.4)p

215.3p

211.0p

114.0p

113.0p

Consolidated statement of comprehensive income
for the year ended 31 December 2018

Notes

2018
£m

504.7

2017
£m

594.4

3

10

3

5(b)

24

5(b)

31.0

–

–

(5.9)

(0.7)

24.4

(11.6)

2.0

(9.6)

(34.4)

(12.2)

(3.0)

–

0.7

(48.9)

42.3

(7.4)

34.9

14.8

(14.0)

519.5

580.4

Profit after tax

Items that may or have been reclassified to the income statement:

Net exchange differences on translation of foreign operations after hedging

Net loss arising on available-for-sale financial assets

Net loss on available-for-sale financial assets held by associates

Net loss on financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income

Tax on items taken directly to other comprehensive income

Items that will not be reclassified to the income statement:

Net actuarial (loss)/gain on defined benefit pension schemes

Tax on items taken directly to other comprehensive income

Other comprehensive income for the year, net of tax1

Total comprehensive income for the year1

1.  Non-controlling interest is presented in the Consolidated statement of changes in equity.
2.  See note 1(b) for a definition and further details of exceptional items.

96

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Consolidated statement of financial position
at 31 December 2018

Assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other receivables

Financial assets

Associates and joint ventures

Property, plant and equipment

Goodwill and intangible assets

Deferred tax

Retirement benefit scheme surplus

Assets backing unit-linked liabilities

Cash and cash equivalents

Financial assets

Total assets

Liabilities

Trade and other payables

Financial liabilities

Current tax

Provisions

Deferred tax

Retirement benefit scheme deficits

Notes

2018
£m

2017
£m

8

9

10

11

12

13

24

14

15

16

17

13

2,683.4

748.9

3,354.9

175.2

249.4

968.2

42.8

155.6

2,947.0

739.0

3,480.8

143.9

162.8

825.8

39.3

162.9

8,378.4

8,501.5

598.2

10,657.7

11,255.9

572.5

13,413.9

13,986.4

19,634.3

22,487.9

988.6

3,660.6

44.2

31.4

15.1

17.3

937.7

3,955.3

78.1

44.0

0.1

15.3

4,757.2

5,030.5

Unit-linked liabilities

14

11,255.9

13,986.4

Total liabilities

Net assets

Total equity1

16,013.1

19,016.9

3,621.2

3,471.0

3,621.2

3,471.0

1.  Non-controlling interest is presented in the Consolidated statement of changes in equity.

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on 6 March 2019 and signed on its behalf by:

Richard Keers

Director

97

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Consolidated statement of changes in equity
for the year ended 31 December 2018

Attributable to owners of the parent

Share 
capital
£m

Share 
premium
£m

Own 
shares  
£m

Notes

Net 
exchange 
differences 
reserve
£m

Associates 
and joint 
ventures 
reserve
£m

Profit  
and loss  
reserve
£m

Non- 
controlling 
interest 
£m

Total 
£m

Total 
equity 
£m

At 1 January 2018

282.5

124.2

(162.3)

153.4

65.8

2,995.1

3,458.7

12.3

3,471.0

Restatement on adoption of IFRS 9 and IFRS 151

–

–

–

–

–

(18.5)

(18.5)

–

(18.5)

At 1 January 2018 (restated)

282.5

124.2

(162.3)

153.4

65.8

2,976.6

3,440.2

12.3

3,452.5

Profit for the year

Other comprehensive income2

Total comprehensive income for the year

Own shares purchased

Share-based payments

Tax in respect of share schemes

Other movements

Dividends

Transactions with shareholders

Transfers

At 31 December 2018

At 1 January 2017

Profit for the year

Other comprehensive income2

Total comprehensive income for the year

Shares cancelled

Own shares purchased

Share-based payments

Tax in respect of share schemes

Other movements

Dividends

Transactions with shareholders

Transfers

At 31 December 2017

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(74.9)

–

–

–

–

(74.9)

73.3

–

19.1

485.9

505.0

(0.3)

504.7

31.0

–

(16.2)

14.8

–

14.8

31.0

19.1

469.7

519.8

(0.3)

519.5

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

0.5

–

–

63.9

(3.3)

(74.9)

63.9

(3.3)

–

–

–

(16.0)

(15.5)

(311.7)

(311.7)

(7.9)

(1.4)

(74.9)

63.9

(3.3)

(23.4)

(313.1)

0.5

(267.1)

(341.5)

(9.3)

(350.8)

(2.3)

(71.0)

–

–

–

282.5

124.2

(163.9)

184.4

83.1

3,108.2

3,618.5

2.7

3,621.2

21

25

5(c)

7

Attributable to owners of the parent

Share 
capital
£m

Share 
premium
£m

Own  
shares 
£m

Notes

Net  
exchange 
differences 
reserve
£m

Associates 
and joint 
ventures 
reserve
£m

Profit  
and loss  
reserve 
£m

Non- 
controlling 
interest 
£m

Total 
£m

Total 
equity 
£m

282.7

124.2

(163.6)

187.7

50.1

2,657.3

3,138.4

14.4

3,152.8

–

–

–

(0.2)

–

–

–

–

–

(0.2)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

5.4

(56.6)

–

–

–

–

(51.2)

52.5

–

21.7

571.3

593.0

1.4

594.4

(34.3)

(3.0)

23.4

(13.9)

(0.1)

(14.0)

(34.3)

18.7

594.7

579.1

1.3

580.4

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(0.3)

(5.2)

–

–

(56.6)

60.5

5.2

–

60.5

5.2

(0.3)

–

–

–

–

0.1

–

(56.6)

60.5

5.2

(0.2)

–

(267.6)

(267.6)

(3.5)

(271.1)

(0.3)

(207.1)

(258.8)

(3.4)

(262.2)

(2.7)

(49.8)

–

–

–

282.5

124.2

(162.3)

153.4

65.8

2,995.1

3,458.7

12.3

3,471.0

20

21

25

5(c)

7

1.  The adoption of IFRS 9 and IFRS 15 has reduced the Group’s equity by £18.5 million, see Presentation of financial statements on page 149.
2.  Other comprehensive income reported in the net exchange differences reserve comprises the foreign exchange gain/(loss) on the translation of foreign operations 

net of hedging. Other comprehensive income reported in the associates and joint ventures reserve for 2017 comprised post-tax fair value movements on 
available-for-sale financial assets. Other comprehensive income reported in the profit and loss reserve comprises the post-tax actuarial (loss)/gain and post-tax fair 
value movements on financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income (2017: available-for-sale financial assets).

98

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Consolidated cash flow statement
for the year ended 31 December 2018

Net cash from operating activities

Cash flows from investing activities

Net acquisition of businesses and associates

Net acquisition of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets

Acquisition of financial assets

Disposal of financial assets

Non-banking interest received

Distributions received from associates and joint ventures

Net cash used in investing activities

Cash flows from financing activities

Acquisition of own shares

Dividends paid

Other flows

Net cash used in financing activities

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents

Opening cash and cash equivalents

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents

Effect of exchange rate changes

Closing cash and cash equivalents

Closing cash and cash equivalents consists of:

Cash and cash equivalents available for use by the Group

Cash held in consolidated pooled investment vehicles

Cash and cash equivalents presented within assets

Cash and cash equivalents presented within assets backing unit-linked liabilities

Closing total cash and cash equivalents

Notes

22

2018
£m

513.9

2017
£m

585.1

10

21

7

(131.8)

(204.1)

(2,241.3)

2,143.7

27.8

3.1

(185.1)

(172.6)

(2,004.5)

1,853.5

26.1

2.7

(402.6)

(479.9)

(74.9)

(313.1)

(0.7)

(388.7)

(56.6)

(271.1)

(0.9)

(328.6)

(277.4)

(223.4)

3,519.5

(277.4)

39.5

3,281.6

2,650.3

33.1

2,683.4

598.2

3,281.6

3,785.6

(223.4)

(42.7)

3,519.5

2,909.8

37.2

2,947.0

572.5

3,519.5

99

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts

1. Segmental reporting
(a) Operating segments

The Group has three business segments: Asset Management, Wealth Management and the Group segment. The Asset Management 
segment principally comprises investment management including advisory services in respect of equity, fixed income, multi-asset solutions 
and private assets and alternatives products. The Wealth Management segment principally comprises investment management, wealth 
planning and banking services. The Group segment principally comprises the Group’s investment capital and treasury management 
activities, corporate development and strategy activities and the management costs associated with governance and corporate 
management.

Segmental information is presented on the same basis as that provided for internal reporting purposes to the Group’s chief operating 
decision maker, the Group Chief Executive.

Operating expenses include an allocation of costs between the individual business segments on a basis that aligns the charge with the 
resources employed by the Group in particular business areas. This allocation provides management information on the business 
performance to manage and control expenditure.

Year ended 31 December 2018

Revenue

Cost of sales

Net operating revenue

Net gain on financial instruments and other income

Share of profit of associates and joint ventures

Net income

Operating expenses

Profit before tax and exceptional items

Year ended 31 December 20171

Revenue

Cost of sales

Net operating revenue

Net gain on financial instruments and other income

Share of profit of associates and joint ventures

Net income

Operating expenses

Profit before tax and exceptional items

Asset  
Management
£m

Wealth 
Management
£m

2,317.6

(528.8)

1,788.8

(3.3)

15.7

1,801.2

(1,130.4)

670.8

308.8

(26.9)

281.9

7.5

0.4

289.8

(196.4)

93.4

Asset 
Management
£m

Wealth 
Management
£m

2,223.1

(479.8)

1,743.3

(6.2)

20.8

1,757.9

(1,052.0)

705.9

288.6

(21.7)

266.9

6.3

0.1

273.3

(183.0)

90.3

Group
£m

–

–

–

29.1

3.8

32.9

(35.9)

(3.0)

Group
£m

–

–

–

35.1

2.6

37.7

(33.6)

4.1

Total
£m

2,626.4

(555.7)

2,070.7

33.3

19.9

2,123.9

(1,362.7)

761.2

Total
£m

2,511.7

(501.5)

2,010.2

35.2

23.5

2,068.9

(1,268.6)

800.3

1.  2017 has been reformatted for consistency with the 2018 presentation following the adoption of IFRS 15, see Presentation of financial statements on page 149.

Segment assets and liabilities are not required to be presented as such information is not presented on a regular basis to the Group’s chief 
operating decision maker.

100

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 20181. Segmental reporting continued
(b) Exceptional items

Exceptional items are significant items of income and expenditure that have been separately presented by virtue of their nature to enable a 
better understanding of the Group’s financial performance. Exceptional items relate principally to the cost reduction programme and items 
arising from acquisitions undertaken by the Group, including amortisation of acquired intangible assets.

Year ended 31 December 2018

Profit before tax and exceptional items

Exceptional items presented within net income:

Net gain on financial instruments and other income

Amortisation of acquired intangible assets relating to associates and joint ventures

Exceptional items presented within operating expenses:

Cost reduction programme

Amortisation of acquired intangible assets

Other expenses

Asset  
Management
£m

Wealth 
Management
£m

670.8

93.4

Group
£m

(3.0)

Total
£m

761.2

(12.9)

–

(12.9)

(55.6)

(8.6)

(5.5)

(69.7)

–

(0.8)

(0.8)

(0.4)

(20.2)

(4.0)

(24.6)

(0.1)

–

(0.1)

–

–

(3.2)

(3.2)

(13.0)

(0.8)

(13.8)

(56.0)

(28.8)

(12.7)

(97.5)

Profit before tax and after exceptional items

588.2

68.0

(6.3)

649.9

Year ended 31 December 2017

Profit before tax and exceptional items

Exceptional items presented within net income:

Net gain on financial instruments and other income

Amortisation of acquired intangible assets relating to associates and joint ventures

Exceptional items presented within operating expenses:

Restructuring costs

Amortisation of acquired intangible assets

Other expenses

Asset 
Management
£m

Wealth 
Management
£m

705.9

90.3

Group
£m

4.1

Total
£m

800.3

(3.5)

(1.6)

(5.1)

–

(9.4)

(2.7)

(12.1)

–

(0.2)

(0.2)

(2.1)

(18.3)

(2.3)

(22.7)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(3.5)

(1.8)

(5.3)

(2.1)

(27.7)

(5.0)

(34.8)

Profit before tax and after exceptional items

688.7

67.4

4.1

760.2

(c) Geographical information

The Group’s non-current assets1 are located in the following countries:

Country

United Kingdom

Switzerland

China

France

United States

Singapore

Other

Total

2018
£m

852.7

168.2

104.4

82.3

70.6

33.0

81.7

2017
£m

726.3

166.8

87.3

0.3

65.6

19.1

67.3

1,392.9

1,132.7 

1.  Comprises the following non-current assets: property, plant and equipment, goodwill and intangible assets, associates and joint ventures and prepayments.

101

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

1. Segmental reporting continued
(d) Non-cash items

Year ended 31 December 2018

Operating expenses include the following non-cash items:

Share-based payments

Depreciation and amortisation

Year ended 31 December 2017

Operating expenses include the following non-cash items:

Share-based payments

Depreciation and amortisation

Asset 
Management
£m

Wealth 
Management
£m

(56.9)

(57.2)

(4.4)

(23.1)

Asset 
Management
£m

Wealth 
Management
£m

(52.9)

(44.7)

(4.3)

(18.7)

Group
£m

(2.6)

(0.5)

Group
£m

(3.3)

–

Total
£m

(63.9)

(80.8)

Total
£m

(60.5)

(63.4)

Where applicable, exceptional items are included in the non-cash items presented above.

2. Net operating revenue

Revenue
The Group’s primary source of revenue is fee income from investment management activities performed within both the Asset Management 
and Wealth Management segments. Fee income includes management fees, performance fees, carried interest and other fees. Revenue 
also includes interest income earned within the Wealth Management segment.

Management fees are generated through investment management agreements and are generally based on an agreed percentage of the 
valuation of AUM. Management fees are recognised as the service is provided and it is probable that the fee will be collected.

Performance fees and carried interest are earned from some arrangements when contractually agreed performance levels are exceeded 
within specified performance measurement periods. They are only recognised where there is deemed to be a low probability of a significant 
reversal in future periods. Performance fees are typically earned over one year and are recognised at the end of the performance period. 
Carried interest is earned over a longer time frame and is recognised when the performance obligations are expected to be met and it is 
highly probable that a significant reversal will not occur. This may result in the recognition of revenue before the contractual crystallisation 
date.

Other fees principally comprises revenues for other services, which are typically driven by levels of AUM, along with revenues that vary 
according to the volume of transactions. Other fees are recognised as the relevant service is provided and it is probable that the fee will  
be collected.

Within Wealth Management, earning a net interest margin is a core activity. Interest income earned as a result of placing loans and deposits 
with other financial institutions, advancing loans and overdrafts to clients and holding debt and other fixed income securities is recognised 
within revenue. Interest income is recognised as it is earned using the effective interest method, which allocates interest at a constant rate 
of return over the expected life of the financial instrument based on the estimated future cash flows.

The Group has applied IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers (IFRS 15) from 1 January 2018. The changes resulting from the 
adoption of IFRS 15 is disclosed in the Presentation of financial statements on page 149.

Cost of sales
Fee expenses incurred by the Group that relate directly to revenue are presented as cost of sales. These expenses include commissions, 
external fund manager fees and distribution fees payable to financial institutions, investment platform providers and financial advisers that 
distribute the Group’s products. 

Fee expense is generally based on an agreed percentage of the valuation of AUM and is recognised in the income statement as the service is 
received. 

Cost of sales also includes amounts payable to third parties in respect of financial obligations arising from carried interest. Amounts payable 
in respect of carried interest are determined based on the current value of the amount that is expected to be paid when the carried interest 
crystallises at the end of the performance period. As a result, the cost of sales recognised in respect of carried interest payable may increase 
or decrease over time, dependent on the fair value of the obligation until it crystallises.

Wealth Management pays interest to clients on deposits taken. For Wealth Management, earning a net interest margin is a core activity. 
Interest payable in respect of these activities is therefore recorded separately from finance costs elsewhere in the business and is reported 
as part of cost of sales. Interest is recognised using the effective interest method (see above).

102

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Total 
£m

2,451.6

26.6

55.7

49.9

42.6

2,626.4

(512.6)

(27.3)

(15.8)

(555.7)

2,070.7

Total 
£m

2,346.2

78.4

54.8

32.3

2,511.7

(490.6)

(10.9)

(501.5)

2,010.2

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

2. Net operating revenue continued

a) Net operating revenue by segment is presented below:

Year ended 31 December 2018

Management fees

Performance fees

Carried interest

Other fees

Wealth Management interest income earned

Revenue

Fee expense

Cost of financial obligations in respect of carried interest

Wealth Management interest expense incurred

Cost of sales

Asset 
Management 
£m

Wealth 
Management 
£m

Group 
£m

2,224.3

26.2

55.7

11.4

–

2,317.6

(501.5)

(27.3)

–

(528.8)

227.3

0.4

–

38.5

42.6

308.8

(11.1)

–

(15.8)

(26.9)

Net operating revenue1

1,788.8

281.9

Year ended 31 December 20172

Management fees3

Performance fees

Other fees3

Wealth Management interest income earned

Revenue

Fee expense

Wealth Management interest expense incurred

Cost of sales

Asset  
Management 
£m

2,131.6

77.5

14.0

–

2,223.1

(479.8)

–

(479.8)

214.6

0.9

40.8

32.3

288.6

(10.8)

(10.9)

(21.7)

Wealth 
Management 
£m

Group 
£m

Net operating revenue1

1,743.3

266.9

1.  Asset Management net operating revenue comprises £851.3 million (2017: £814.0 million) from the Group’s Institutional sales channel and £937.5 million 

(£929.3 million) from the Group’s Intermediary sales channel.

2.  2017 has been reformatted for consistency with the 2018 presentation following the adoption of IFRS 15, see Presentation of financial statements on page 149.
3.  Certain revenues that are earned as a percentage of the valuation of AUM, and previously presented within other income, are now presented within management 

fees. This change resulted in £190.6 million of other fees being reclassified to management fees for the year ended 31 December 2017.

103

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

2. Net operating revenue continued

b) Net operating revenue is presented below by region based on the location of clients:

Year ended 31 December 2018

Management fees

Performance fees

Carried interest

Other fees

Wealth Management interest income earned

Revenue

Fee expense

Cost of financial obligations in respect of carried interest

Wealth Management interest expense incurred

Cost of sales

UK 
£m

720.3

2.1

–

31.3

30.6

784.3

(64.4)

–

(12.3)

(76.7)

Continental 
Europe &  
Middle East 
£m 

Asia Pacific 
£m

820.6

4.7

55.7

12.0

10.4

903.4

(231.1)

(27.3)

(3.4)

(261.8)

Americas 
£m

287.9

7.3

–

0.1

–

Total 
£m

2,451.6

26.6

55.7

49.9

42.6

622.8

12.5

–

6.5

1.6

643.4

295.3

2,626.4

(178.4)

–

(0.1)

(38.7)

–

–

(178.5)

(38.7)

(512.6)

(27.3)

(15.8)

(555.7)

Net operating revenue

707.6

641.6

464.9

256.6

2,070.7

Year ended 31 December 20171

Management fees2

Performance fees

Other fees2

Wealth Management interest income earned

Revenue

Fee expense

Wealth Management interest expense incurred

Cost of sales

UK 
£m

698.8

24.0

31.8

19.0

773.6

(64.6)

(6.1)

(70.7)

Continental  
Europe &  
Middle East 
£m 

Asia Pacific 
£m

770.2

22.6

15.0

12.2

820.0

(231.4)

(4.6)

(236.0)

623.8

22.2

7.6

1.1

654.7

(167.1)

(0.2)

(167.3)

Americas 
£m

253.4

9.6

0.4

–

Total 
£m

2,346.2

78.4

54.8

32.3

263.4

2,511.7

(27.5)

–

(27.5)

(490.6)

(10.9)

(501.5)

Net operating revenue

702.9

584.0

487.4

235.9

2,010.2

1.  2017 has been reformatted for consistency with the 2018 presentation following the adoption of IFRS 15, see Presentation of financial statements on page 149. 
2.  Certain revenues that are earned as a percentage of the valuation of AUM, and previously presented within other income, are now presented within management 

fees. This change resulted in £190.6 million of other fees being reclassified to management fees for the year ended 31 December 2017.

Estimates and judgements – revenue
Carried interest is recognised when the relevant services have been provided and there is a low probability that a significant reversal will 
occur. It represents the Group’s contractual right to share in the profits of around 74 private asset investment vehicles if certain performance 
hurdles are met when the underlying investments are realised and the capital returned to clients. 

The Group applies judgement to determine certain assumptions that are used to estimate the amount of carried interest that is expected to 
be received. Those assumptions principally include the growth rates and realisation dates of the underlying investments that lead to capital 
payments being made to clients and crystallise any carried interest that may be received. These factors are used to estimate the cash flows 
and determine the present value of the carried interest that may be received by the Group at future crystallisation dates. The estimated cash 
flows are constrained, in accordance with accounting standards, to reduce the risk of significant reversal of revenue.

The Group estimates the cash flows that will be realised by the respective investment vehicles when the underlying securities are 
successfully disposed of. These estimates are based on the current fair value of the underlying investments. The resultant cash flows are 
assessed against the applicable performance hurdle, which is dependent on the capital invested and timing of distributions to clients in the 
individual vehicle. In order to reduce the risk of a significant reversal of carried interest, as required by accounting standards, each 
investment vehicle is assessed to determine whether it is sufficiently developed to be assured of carried interest returns and the fair value of 
all investment vehicles is discounted to limit the potential revenue recognition. Finally, it is assumed there is no further growth in the 
investment values to the realisation date. The distributions to clients are based on the expectations of the individual investment managers 
as to the realisation of a large volume of underlying individual securities.

104

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 20182. Net operating revenue continued

Estimates and judgements – cost of sales
The cost of financial obligations in respect of carried interest (carried interest payable) is based on an assessment of the fair value of 
amounts that have been received or may be received in the future and the proportion that is payable to third parties. The Group applies 
similar judgements as those used to determine the present value of carried interest receivable, as set out on page 104, in determining the 
carried interest payable. However, accounting standards do not limit the liability that should be recognised before realisation to the amount 
that represents a low probability of a significant reversal occuring. As a result no constraints are applied in determining the value of the 
liability. In addition, a growth rate is assumed in order to determine the returns against which the investment hurdle should be applied. The 
amount payable at maturity will depend on the realised value of the related financial asset and may differ to the projected value. An increase 
in the growth rate of 3% would increase cost of sales by £12.5 million. Notwithstanding the differing accounting requirements for the 
recognition of carried interest and carried interest payable, any cost of sale paid to third parties in respect of carried interest will always be 
less than the carried interest generated and will not be settled until the income is received. An average acceleration/delay in crystallisation 
dates of one year would increase/reduce cost of sales by £6.9 million/£7.2 million.

3. Net gain on financial instruments and other income

The Group holds financial instruments to support its Group capital strategies, which comprise operating capital, seed and co-investment 
capital and other investible equity. Operating capital is retained in the Group’s operating entities to meet minimum local regulatory capital 
requirements and other capital required for day-to-day operational purposes. Operating capital principally comprises cash and cash 
equivalents and other low-risk financial instruments, as well as financial instruments held to hedge fair value movements on certain 
deferred fund awards. Seed and co-investment capital represents strategic investments in the Group’s products to develop new investment 
strategies and co-invest selectively alongside clients. Seed and co-investment capital is financed from investment capital and, where 
practical, the market risk on seed capital investments is hedged. Other investible equity held in excess of operating requirements is 
transferred to investment capital, which is managed centrally in accordance with limits approved by the Board.

A portion of the Group’s financial instruments measured at fair value are classified as financial instruments at fair value through profit or 
loss (FVTPL). Net gains and losses on financial instruments at FVTPL principally comprise market returns on investments in debt securities, 
equities, pooled investment vehicles, gains and losses on derivatives (which mainly arise from hedging activities) and gains and losses on 
contingent consideration arising from business combinations (including amounts related to carried interest). Net gains and losses on 
financial instruments at FVTPL that are held to hedge deferred employee cash awards are presented separately and are included within 
operating expenses (see note 4). The cost of financial obligations in respect of carried interest (other than that relating to contingent 
consideration) is presented separately and is included within cost of sales (see note 2). In both instances, the presentation better reflects the 
substance of these transactions and provides more relevant information about the Group’s net income and operating expenses.

The remainder of the Group’s financial assets measured at fair value are classified as financial assets at fair value through other 
comprehensive income (FVOCI). Unrealised gains and losses on debt securities classified as financial assets at FVOCI are recorded in other 
comprehensive income, and the cumulative gains and losses are transferred to the income statement if the investment is sold or otherwise 
realised. This is the same accounting treatment as applied in the 2017 comparatives to the Group’s financial assets classified as available-for-
sale (AFS). An explanation of how the Group’s financial assets and financial liabilities are classified and measured is included in notes 9 and 
16. 

Under IFRS 9, expected credit losses are calculated on financial assets measured at amortised cost and debt instruments measured at FVOCI 
and are recognised in the income statement.

The changes resulting from the adoption of IFRS 9 Financial Instruments (IFRS 9) are set out in the Presentation of the financial statements 
on page 149.

Net finance income is derived from interest on non-banking activities, principally generated from cash and deposits with banks, but also as  
a result of holding investments in debt securities. Debt securities and cash held outside of Wealth Management entities are managed mainly 
by Group Treasury to earn competitive rates of return and provide liquidity throughout the Group. Significant amounts of the Group’s cash 
and interest-earning securities are held within Wealth Management and are managed by the Wealth Management treasury team. Interest 
earned on the assets held within Wealth Management is included in revenue and interest incurred on the liabilities assumed is included in 
cost of sales. Interest is recognised using the effective interest method (see note 2).

Other income includes amounts arising from AUA within Benchmark Capital, gains and losses on foreign exchange and rent receivable from 
subletting properties.

105

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

3. Net gain on financial instruments and other income continued

2018

2017

Year ended 31 December

Income 
statement
£m

Other 
comprehensive 
income
£m

Income 
statement
£m

Other 
comprehensive 
income
£m

Net (loss)/gain on financial instruments at FVTPL1

(13.9)

Net loss arising from fair value movements

Net transfers on disposal 

Net loss on AFS financial assets

Net loss arising from fair value movements

Net transfers on disposal 

Net loss on financial assets at FVOCI

Net finance income

Other income

Net gain on financial instruments and other income

Net (loss)/gain on financial instruments held to hedge employee 
deferred cash awards – presented within operating expenses

Cost of financial obligations in respect of carried interest – 
presented within cost of sales 

Net (loss)/gain on financial instruments and other income – net of 
hedging 

–

–

–

–

0.2

0.2

8.4

25.6

20.3

(11.3)

(27.3)

Total
£m

(13.9)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(5.7)

(0.2)

(5.9)

(5.7)

–

(5.7)

5.6

–

3.3

3.3

–

–

–

–

–

8.4

25.6

9.7

13.1

Total
£m

5.6

(8.9)

–

–

(8.9)

(3.3)

(12.2)

(8.9)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

9.7

13.1

(5.9)

14.4

31.7

(12.2)

19.5

–

–

(11.3)

13.2

(27.3)

–

–

–

13.2

–

(18.3)

(5.9)

(24.2)

44.9

(12.2)

32.7

1.  Includes £13.0 million of exceptional items (2017: £3.5 million), of which £7.1 million is in respect of contingent consideration in relation to carried interest (2017: nil).

106

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 20184. Operating expenses

Operating expenses represent the Group’s administrative expenses and are recognised as the services are received. Certain costs, including 
leases and capitalised costs, are charged evenly over the life of the relevant contract or useful life of the asset. The biggest component of the 
Group’s operating expenses is the cost of employee benefits, as shown below. Other costs include accommodation, information technology, 
marketing and outsourcing costs.

The control of total costs, including compensation costs, is a key performance objective of the Group. Compensation costs are managed 
to a target total compensation ratio of between 45% to 49%. Targeting a total compensation ratio range provides some flexibility to manage 
the overall cost base in response to market conditions. Total costs are managed to a target long-term key performance indicator (KPI) ratio 
of total costs to net income of 65%.

Employee benefits expense includes salaries and wages, together with the cost of other benefits provided to employees such as pension 
and bonuses. Employee benefits expense is presented net of gains and losses on financial instruments held to hedge deferred employee 
cash awards (see note 3). The Group makes some performance awards to employees that are deferred over a specified vesting period. Such 
awards are charged to the income statement over the performance period and the vesting period. The Group holds investments that are 
linked to these performance awards in order to hedge the related expense. Gains and losses on these investments are netted against the 
relevant costs in the income statement but are presented separately below.

Further detail on other types of employee benefit can be found elsewhere within these financial statements, see note 24 for pension costs 
and note 25 for more detail on compensation that is awarded in Schroders plc shares.

(a) Employee benefits expense and number of employees

Year ended 31 December

Salaries, wages and other remuneration

Social security costs

Pension costs

Employee benefits expense

Net loss/(gain) on financial instruments held to hedge deferred cash awards

Employee benefits expense – net of hedging

2018
£m

839.7

66.5

45.6

951.8

11.3

963.1

2017
£m

784.0

71.3

41.5

896.8

(13.2)

883.6

The employee benefits expense net of hedging of £963.1 million (2017: £883.6 million) includes £59.8 million (2017: £2.3 million) that is 
presented within exceptional items, which comprises £56.0 million (2017: nil) of expenses in relation to the cost reduction programme and   
£3.8 million (2017: £0.2 million) arising from prior acquisitions completed by the Group. Additionally, in 2017 there were £2.1 million of 
exceptional items in relation to restructuring costs.

Information about the compensation of key management personnel can be found in note 26. Details of the amounts paid to or receivable 
from Directors along with the number of Directors who exercised share options in the year is provided in the Remuneration report on pages 
68 to 90.

The monthly average number of employees of the Company and its subsidiary undertakings during the year was:

Full-time employees

Contract and temporary employees

Employed as follows:

Asset Management

Wealth Management

Group

(b) Audit and other services

Year ended 31 December

Fees payable to the auditor for the audit of the Company and Consolidated financial statements

Fees payable to the auditor and its associates for other services:

Audit of the Company’s subsidiaries

Audit-related assurance services

Other assurance services

Tax advisory services

Other non-audit services

EY replaced PwC as the Group’s principal auditor for the 2018 financial year.

2018
Number

4,383

489

4,872

3,910

924

38

4,872

2018
£m

0.6

3.3

1.0

0.5

–

0.1

5.5

2017
Number

4,013

384

4,397

3,526

831

40

4,397

2017
£m

0.6

2.7

1.1

–

0.1

1.2

5.7

107

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

5. Tax expense

The Group is headquartered in the UK and pays taxes according to the rates applicable in the countries and states in which it operates. 
Most taxes are recorded in the income statement (see part (a)) and relate to taxes payable for the reporting period (current tax). The charge 
also includes benefits and charges relating to when income or expenses are recognised in a different period for tax and accounting 
purposes or specific treatment relating to acquisitions (deferred tax – see note 13). Some current and deferred taxes are recorded through 
other comprehensive income (see part (b)) or directly to equity, where the tax arises from changes in the value of remuneration settled as 
shares (see part (c)).

(a) Analysis of tax charge reported in the income statement

Year ended 31 December

UK current year charge

Rest of the world current year charge

Adjustments in respect of prior year estimates

Total current tax

Origination and reversal of temporary differences

Adjustments in respect of prior year estimates

Effect of changes in corporation tax rates

Total deferred tax

2018
£m

56.9

78.6

1.7

137.2

7.9

0.1

–

8.0

2017
£m

79.9

84.2

(5.0)

159.1

(4.9)

0.9

10.7

6.7

Tax charge reported in the income statement

145.2

165.8

(b) Analysis of tax (credit)/charge reported in other comprehensive income

Year ended 31 December

Current income tax on movements in available-for-sale financial assets

Current income tax on movements in financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income

Deferred tax (credit)/charge on actuarial gains and losses on defined benefit pension schemes

Deferred tax (credit)/charge on other movements through other comprehensive income

Tax (credit)/charge reported in other comprehensive income

(c) Analysis of tax charge/(credit) reported in equity

Year ended 31 December

Current income tax credit on Equity Compensation Plan and other share-based remuneration

Deferred tax charge/(credit) on Equity Compensation Plan and other share-based remuneration

Deferred tax – effect of changes in corporation tax rates

Tax charge/(credit) reported in equity

2018
£m

–

1.5

(2.0)

(0.8)

(1.3)

2018
£m

(2.6)

5.9

–

3.3

2017
£m

(0.7)

–

7.1

0.3

6.7

2017
£m

(4.2)

(1.6)

0.6

(5.2)

(d) Factors affecting tax charge for the year
The UK standard rate of corporation tax for 2018 is 19% (2017: effective rate of 19.25%). The tax charge for the year is higher (2017: higher) than 
a charge based on the UK standard rate. The differences are explained below:

Year ended 31 December

Profit before tax

Less post-tax net profit of associates and joint ventures

Profit before tax of Group entities

2018
£m

649.9

(19.1)

630.8

2017
£m

760.2

(21.7)

738.5

Profit before tax of consolidated Group entities multiplied by corporation tax at the UK standard rate

119.9

142.2

Effects of:

Different statutory tax rates of overseas jurisdictions

Permanent differences including non-taxable income and non-deductible expenses

Net movement in timing differences for which no deferred tax is recognised

Deferred tax adjustments in respect of changes in corporation tax rates

Prior year adjustments

Tax charge reported in the income statement

8.7

11.1

3.7

–

1.8

12.4

3.5

1.1

10.7

(4.1)

145.2

165.8

108

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 20185. Tax expense continued

Estimates and judgements
The calculation of the Group’s tax charge involves a degree of estimation and judgement. Liabilities relating to open and judgemental 
matters, including those in relation to deferred taxes, are based on the Group’s assessment of the most likely outcome based on the 
information available. As a result, certain tax amounts are based on estimates using factors that are relevant to the specific judgement. 
The Group engages constructively and transparently with tax authorities with a view to early resolution of any uncertain tax matters. Where 
the final tax outcome of these matters is different from the amounts provided, such differences will impact the tax charge in a future period. 
Such estimates are based on assumptions made on the probability of potential challenge within certain jurisdictions and the possible 
outcome based on relevant facts and circumstances, including local tax laws. There was no individual judgemental component of the 
tax expense that was material to the Group results when taking into account the likely range of potential outcomes.

Amounts recorded within the 2018 tax charge relating to these judgements were not material (2017: same).

6. Earnings per share

This KPI shows the portion of the Group’s profit after tax that is attributable to each share issued by the Company, excluding own shares 
held by the Group. The calculation is based on the weighted average number of shares in issue during the year. The diluted figure 
recalculates that number as if all share options that would be expected to be exercised, as they have value to the option holder, had been 
exercised in the year. Shares that may be issued are not taken into account if the impact does not reduce earnings per share.

Reconciliation of the figures used in calculating basic and diluted earnings per share:

Year ended 31 December

Weighted average number of shares used in the calculation of basic earnings per share

Effect of dilutive potential shares – share options

Effect of dilutive potential shares – contingently issuable shares

Weighted average number of shares used in the calculation of diluted earnings per share

2018
Number
Millions

275.9

5.2

–

281.1

2017
Number
Millions

275.4

5.6

0.1

281.1

The pre-exceptional earnings per share calculations are based on profit after tax excluding non-controlling interest of £2.6 million 
(2017: £3.7 million). After exceptional items, the loss after tax attributable to non-controlling interest was £0.3 million (2017: profit of 
£1.4 million).

7. Dividends

Dividends are distributions of profit to holders of the Group’s share capital, usually announced with the Group’s half-year and annual results. 
Dividends are recognised only when they are paid or approved by shareholders. The reduction in equity in the year therefore comprises the 
prior year final dividend and the current year interim dividend.

Prior year final dividend paid

Interim dividend paid

Total dividends paid

2019

£m

Pence per 
share

2018

2017

£m

216.0

95.7

311.7

Pence per  
share

79.0

35.0

114.0

£m

174.7

92.9

267.6

Pence per  
share

64.0

34.0

98.0

Current year final dividend recommended

216.1

79.0

Dividends of £10.5 million (2017: £9.3 million) on shares held by employee benefit trusts have been waived and dividends may not be paid on 
treasury shares. The Board has recommended a 2018 final dividend of 79.0 pence per share (2017 final dividend: 79.0 pence), amounting to 
£216.1 million (2017 final dividend: £216.0 million). The dividend will be paid on 9 May 2019 to shareholders on the register at 29 March 2019 
and will be accounted for in 2019.

In addition, the Group paid £1.4 million of dividends to holders of non-controlling interests in subsidiaries of the Group during 2018 
(2017: £3.5 million), resulting in total dividends paid of £313.1 million (2017: £271.1 million).

109

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

8. Trade and other receivables

Trade and other receivables includes prepayments and deposits with banks in the form of bullion as well as amounts the Group is due to 
receive from third parties in the normal course of business. Trade and other receivables, other than deposits with banks in the form of 
bullion, are recorded initially at fair value and subsequently at amortised cost (see note 9), after the deduction of provisions for impairment. 
Prepayments arise where the Group pays cash in advance for services. As the service is provided, the prepayment is reduced and the 
operating expense is recognised in the income statement. Accrued income, other than amounts relating to carried interest, represents 
unbilled revenue and is not dependent on future performance. Amounts due from third parties also include settlement accounts for 
transactions undertaken on behalf of funds and investors. Deposits with banks in the form of bullion are recorded at fair value.

Trade and other receivables held at amortised cost:

Fee debtors

Settlement accounts

Accrued income

Prepayments

Other receivables

Current tax

Non-current
£m

2018

Current
£m

20171

Total
£m

Non-current
£m

Current
£m

–

–

56.8

0.1

5.5

–

72.6

170.1

337.7

35.9

54.1

7.0

72.6

170.1

394.5

36.0

59.6

7.0

–

–

19.6

0.2

1.9

–

63.7

182.0

373.7

27.2

30.4

13.8

Total
£m

63.7

182.0

393.3

27.4

32.3

13.8

Trade and other receivables held at fair value:

Deposits with banks in the form of bullion

–

9.1

9.1

–

26.5

26.5

62.4

677.4

739.8

21.7

690.8

712.5

1.  Comparative information has not been restated following the adoption of IFRS 15 on 1 January 2018, see Presentation of financial statements on page 149.

The fair value of trade and other receivables held at amortised cost approximates their carrying value. Deposits with banks in the form of bullion 
are categorised as level 1 in the fair value hierarchy (see note 9). 

62.4

686.5

748.9

21.7

717.3

739.0

Estimates and judgements
Accrued income includes £74.7 million of receivables in respect of carried interest. This income is due over a number of years and only when 
contractually agreed performance levels are exceeded. The actual income received may vary as a result of future investment performance. 
Further information regarding the estimates and judgements applied is set out in note 2. 

110

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 20189. Financial assets

The Group holds financial assets including equities, debt securities, pooled investment vehicles and derivatives to support its Group capital 
strategies and its Wealth Management banking book, including loans to clients. The Group also enters into derivatives on behalf of Wealth 
Management clients, referred to as client facilitation (see note 18).

On 1 January 2018, the Group adopted IFRS 9 Financial Instruments (IFRS 9). IFRS 9 replaces the classification and measurement models 
previously contained in IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement (IAS 39), see Presentation of financial statements on 
page 149. The classification and measurement of financial assets at 31 December 2018 is in accordance with IFRS 9 and the classification and 
measurement of financial assets at 31 December 2017 is in accordance with IAS 39 as the Group has not restated comparative information.

Classification and measurement in accordance with IFRS 9
The Group initially records all financial assets at fair value. The Group subsequently holds each financial asset at fair value (‘fair value 
through profit or loss’ (FVTPL) or ‘fair value through other comprehensive income’ (FVOCI)) or at amortised cost. Fair value is the price that 
would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability between market participants. Amortised cost is the amount determined based 
on moving the initial amount recognised for the financial instrument to the maturity value on a systematic basis using a fixed interest rate 
(effective interest rate), taking account of repayment dates and initial premiums or discounts.

Financial assets at amortised cost
Financial assets are measured at amortised cost when their contractual cash flows represent solely payments of principal and interest and 
they are held within a business model designed to collect cash flows. This classification typically applies to the Group’s loans and advances, 
trade receivables and some debt securities held by the Group’s Wealth Management entities. The carrying value of amortised cost financial 
assets is adjusted for impairment under the expected loss model (see note 3 and 19).

Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income
Financial assets are held at FVOCI when their contractual cash flows represent solely payments of principal and interest and they are held 
within a business model designed to collect cash flows and to sell assets. This classification applies to certain debt securities within the 
Group’s Wealth Management entities and to debt securities held as part of the Group’s investment capital portfolio. Impairment is 
recognised for debt securities classified as FVOCI under the expected loss model (see note 3 and 19).

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
All other financial assets are held at FVTPL. The Group’s financial assets at FVTPL principally comprise investments in debt securities, equities, 
pooled investment vehicles and derivatives.

Classification and measurement in accordance with IAS 39 in respect of prior periods
The Group initially recorded all financial assets at fair value. The Group subsequently held each financial asset at fair value (‘fair value 
through profit or loss’ (FVTPL) or ‘available-for-sale’ (AFS)) or at amortised cost (‘held to maturity’ or ‘loans and receivables’). Fair value and 
amortised cost are explained above. 

Financial assets at amortised cost (‘held to maturity’ and ‘loans and receivables’)
Financial assets at amortised cost are the same as those within IFRS 9. The main difference is that adjustments for impairment were made 
in accordance with the incurred loss model. This was normally determined based on an assessment of the estimated future cash flows on 
a discounted basis using the original effective interest rate compared with contractual amounts (see note 3 and 19).

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
A portion of the Group’s financial assets were held at FVTPL and comprised assets that were initially designated as such and those that were 
held for regular trading.

Available-for-sale financial assets
The remainder of the Group’s investments held at fair value were classified as AFS financial assets. This classification was typically selected 
when the investment was expected to be held for the long term but not necessarily to maturity and where short-term volatility did not 
reflect long-term expected returns. AFS financial assets were reviewed for impairment at the end of each reporting period. The carrying 
value of these financial assets was not necessarily adjusted, but any impairment loss was transferred from other comprehensive income 
to the income statement.

111

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

9. Financial assets continued

Estimates and judgements – fair value measurements
The Group holds financial instruments that are measured at fair value. The fair value of financial instruments may require some estimation 
or may be derived from readily available sources. The degree of estimation involved depends on the individual financial instrument and is 
reflected in the fair value hierarchy below. The hierarchy also reflects the extent of judgements used in the valuation but this does not 
necessarily indicate that the fair value is more or less likely to be realised. Judgements may include determining which valuation approach 
to apply as well as determining appropriate assumptions. For level 2 and 3 financial instruments, the judgement applied by the Group gives 
rise to an estimate of fair value. The approach to determining the fair value estimate of level 2 and 3 financial instruments is set out below, 
with no individual input giving rise to a material component of the carrying value for the Group. The fair value levels are based on the 
degree to which the fair value is observable and are defined as follows:

 – Level 1 fair value measurements are those derived from quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities and 
principally comprise investments in pooled investment vehicles, quoted equities and government debt, daily-priced funds and exchange-
traded derivatives;

 – Level 2 fair value measurements are those derived from prices that are not traded in an active market but are determined using valuation 
techniques, which make maximum use of observable market data. The Group’s level 2 financial instruments principally comprise foreign 
exchange contracts, certain debt securities, asset and mortgage backed securities, and loans held at fair value. Valuation techniques may 
include using a broker quote in an inactive market or an evaluated price based on a compilation of primarily observable market 
information utilising information readily available via external sources. For funds not priced on a daily basis, the net asset value which 
is issued monthly or quarterly is used; and

 – Level 3 fair value measurements are those derived from valuation techniques that include inputs for the asset or liability that are not 

based on observable market data. The Group’s level 3 financial assets principally comprise investments in private equity funds that are 
measured by applying appropriate valuation techniques in accordance with International Private Equity and Venture Capital Valuation 
Guidelines 2015. Following the Group’s acquisition of Algonquin Management Partners S.A. (see note 28), level 3 financial assets now 
include investments in property investment vehicles that operate hotel businesses. These are valued based on the expected future 
cash flows that could be generated from the hotel business. 

Financial assets at amortised cost:

Loans and advances to banks

Loans and advances to clients

Debt securities

Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income:

Debt securities 

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss:

Pooled investment vehicles

Debt securities

Equities

Derivative contracts

Loans and advances to clients

2018

Level 1 
£m

Level 2 
£m

Level 3 
£m

–

–

–

–

487.3

487.3

614.5

260.7

197.4

5.2

–

1,077.8

–

–

–

–

442.0

442.0

5.0

103.3

0.7

24.1

2.4

135.5

–

–

–

–

–

–

80.9

5.0

21.5

9.0

–

116.4

Not at 
fair value 
£m

384.2

572.6

139.1

Total
£m

384.2

572.6

139.1

1,095.9

1,095.9

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

929.3

929.3

700.4

369.0

219.6

38.3

2.4

1,329.7

1,565.1

577.5

116.4

1,095.9

3,354.9

112

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 20189. Financial assets continued

Financial assets at amortised cost – held to maturity:

Debt securities

Financial assets at amortised cost – loans and receivables:

Loans and advances to banks

Loans and advances to clients

Debt securities

Available-for-sale financial assets:

Pooled investment vehicles

Debt securities

Equities

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss:

Pooled investment vehicles

Debt securities

Equities

Derivative contracts

Loans and advances to clients

Current

Non-current

2017

Level 1 
£m

Level 2 
£m

Level 3 
£m

–

–

–

–

–

–

30.9

384.3

0.2

415.4

627.0

66.2

134.9

2.6

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

4.0

548.3

0.1

552.4

4.5

83.6

0.1

29.3

0.7

830.7

118.2

–

–

–

–

–

–

14.7

–

12.4

27.1

31.4

–

–

13.4

–

44.8

Not at 
fair value 
£m

10.2

10.2

783.2

557.3

141.5

Total
£m

10.2

10.2

783.2

557.3

141.5

1,482.0

1,482.0

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

49.6

932.6

12.7

994.9

662.9

149.8

135.0

45.3

0.7

993.7

1,246.1

670.6

71.9

1,492.2

3,480.8

2018
£m

2,822.9

532.0

3,354.9

2017
£m

3,047.2

433.6

3,480.8

The fair value of financial assets at amortised cost approximates to their carrying value. No financial assets were transferred between levels 
during 2018 (2017: none).

Movements in financial assets categorised as Level 3 during the year were:

At 1 January 

Exchange translation adjustments 

Net gain/(loss) recognised in the income statement

Net loss recognised in other comprehensive income1

Additions2

Disposals

At 31 December 

1.  Reported within net loss on available-for-sale financial assets.
2.  Additions during the year include amounts relating to the acquisition of Algonquin Management Partners S.A. (see note 28).

2018
£m

71.9

1.9

6.3

–

48.4

(12.1)

116.4

2017
£m

56.8

(0.1)

(3.0)

(6.8)

36.0

(11.0)

71.9

113

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

10. Associates and joint ventures

Associates are entities in which the Group has an investment and over which it has significant influence, but not control, through 
participation in the financial and operating policy decisions. Joint ventures are entities in which the Group has an investment where it, along 
with one or more other shareholders, has contractually agreed to share control of the business and where the major decisions require the 
unanimous consent of the joint partners. In both cases, the Group initially records the investment at the fair value of the purchase 
consideration, including purchase related costs. The Group’s income statement reflects its share of the entity’s profit or loss after tax and 
amortisation of intangible assets. The statement of other comprehensive income records the Group’s share of gains and losses arising from 
the entity’s financial assets at FVOCI (2017: AFS financial assets) (see note 9). The statement of financial position subsequently records the 
Group’s share of the net assets of the entity plus any goodwill and intangible assets that arose on purchase less subsequent amortisation. 
The statement of changes in equity records the Group’s share of other equity movements of the entity. Goodwill and intangible assets are 
assessed regularly for impairment.

The associates and joint ventures reserve in the statement of changes in equity represents the Group’s share of profits in its investments yet 
to be received (for example, in the form of dividends or distributions), less any amortisation of intangible assets. Certain associates are held 
at fair value where permitted by accounting standards and are recorded within financial assets (see note 9). Information about the Group’s 
principal associates measured at fair value are disclosed within this note.

(a) Investments in associates and joint ventures accounted for using the equity method

At 1 January

Exchange translation adjustments

Additions1

Disposals2

Profit for the year after tax

Net loss recognised in other comprehensive income

Other movements in reserves of associates and joint ventures

Distributions of profit

At 31 December

2018

Associates
£m

Joint ventures
£m

141.8

2.1

1.0

22.7

(8.9)

18.4

–

0.5

(2.4)

173.1

–

–

–

0.7

–

–

(0.7)

2.1

2017

Associates
£m

Joint ventures
£m

Total
£m

143.9

1.0

22.7

(8.9)

19.1

–

0.5

(3.1)

123.1

(2.7)

5.9

–

20.9

(3.0)

(0.3)

(2.1)

175.2

141.8

Total
£m

125.0

(2.7)

5.9

–

21.7

(3.0)

(0.3)

(2.7)

143.9

1.9

–

–

–

0.8

–

–

(0.6)

2.1

1.  On 1 May 2018, the Group acquired a 20% equity interest in A10 Capital Parent Company LLC (A10), a US-based full-service commercial real estate lending platform, 
for a consideration of £10.2 million. On the same date, the Group also purchased £22.7 million of redeemable preference shares issued by A10. The redeemable 
preference shares are included within financial assets at amortised cost (see note 9). On 11 June 2018, the Group purchased a 26% interest in Planar Investments 
Private Ltd, a Singapore-based digital wealth services business that trades as ‘WeInvest’, for a consideration of £7.5 million. The Group invested in three other 
associate undertakings during the period for a total consideration of £5.0 million.

2.  The Group disposed of two associates during the year with a combined carrying value of £8.9 million.

Information about the significant associates held by the Group at 31 December 2018 is shown below. The companies are unlisted.

Name of associate

RWC Partners Limited (RWC)

Bank of Communications Schroder Fund Management 
Co. Ltd. (BoCom)

Nature of its
business

Principal place of 
business

Investment management

Investment management

England

China

Axis Asset Management Company Limited (Axis)

Investment management

A10 Capital Parent Company LLC (A10)

Real estate lending

India

USA

Class of share

Ordinary shares

Ordinary shares

Ordinary shares

Common units

Percentage 
owned by the 
Group

41%

30%

25%

20%

114

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 201810. Associates and joint ventures continued

Non-current assets

Current assets

Non-current liabilities

Current liabilities

Total equity

2018

RWC
£m

BoCom
£m

Axis
£m

A10
£m

Other
£m

Total
£m

RWC
£m

BoCom
£m

5.9

29.1

20.5 868.3

2.2 926.0

5.0 108.5

76.0 399.8

54.2 129.4

12.0 671.4

53.6 295.9

2017

Axis
£m

14.9

39.9

Other
£m

Total
£m

2.7 131.1

7.3 396.7

(0.1)

–

(4.0) (903.5)

(2.2) (909.8)

–

–

(9.9)

(7.2)

(17.1)

(40.1)

(81.1)

(39.3)

(55.0)

(0.8) (216.3)

(25.1) (113.6)

(15.3)

(1.6) (155.6)

41.7 347.8

31.4

39.2

11.2 471.3

33.5 290.8

29.6

1.2 355.1

Group’s share of net assets

Goodwill and intangible assets

Carrying value held by the Group

17.3 104.3

9.7

–

27.0 104.3

7.8

11.7

19.5

7.9

1.4

9.3

3.4 140.7

9.6

32.4

13.0 173.1

14.4

10.2

24.6

87.3

–

87.3

7.4

12.1

19.5

1.3 110.4

9.1

31.4

10.4 141.8

Net income

52.4 158.8

82.3

11.7

6.3 311.5

38.8 154.9

81.0

1.4 276.1

Profit/(loss) for the year

Other comprehensive loss

10.1

54.4

–

–

2.1

–

(5.3)

(2.1)

59.2

4.9

61.5

–

–

–

–

(10.1)

Total comprehensive income

10.1

54.4

2.1

(5.3)

(2.1)

59.2

4.9

51.4

8.6

–

8.6

–

–

–

75.0

(10.1)

64.9

Group’s share of profit for the year before 
amortisation

4.2

16.3

0.5

(1.1)

(0.7)

19.2

2.1

18.4

2.2

–

22.7

Amortisation charge

–

–

–

–

(0.8)

(0.8)

–

–

(1.6)

(0.2)

(1.8)

Group’s share of profit for the year

4.2

16.3

0.5

(1.1)

(1.5)

18.4

2.1

18.4

0.6

(0.2)

20.9

Group’s share of other comprehensive income

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(3.0)

–

–

(3.0)

Group’s share of total comprehensive income

4.2

16.3

0.5

(1.1)

(1.5)

18.4

2.1

15.4

0.6

(0.2)

17.9

(b) Investments in associates measured at fair value
Where the Group holds units in pooled investment vehicles that give the Group significant influence, but not control, through participation in the 
financial and operating policy decisions, the Group records such investments at fair value. Information about the Group’s principal associates 
measured at fair value is shown below. The investments are recorded as financial assets within the Group’s statement of financial position.

2018

Schroder Global 
Multi-Factor 
Equity Fund
£m

Schroder ISF 
European
 Alpha Focus
£m

Schroder 
Fusion 
Portfolio 3
£m

Schroder 
YEN Target 
(Annual)
£m

Sicredi – FI 
Multimercado 
Elite Credito 
Privado LP
£m

Schroder 
Absolute Return 
Emerging 
Markets Debt 
Portfolio LP
£m

Current assets

Current liabilities

Total equity

Net income

Profit for the year

Total comprehensive income

Country of incorporation

Percentage owned by the Group

841.7

(1.3)

840.4

19.5

16.8

16.8

86.8

–

86.8

(9.0)

(9.0)

(9.0)

UK Luxembourg

37%

19%

25.3

(4.4)

20.9

(0.2)

(0.2)

(0.2)

UK

29%

7.3

–

7.3

0.4

0.4

0.4

6.9

–

6.9

0.3

0.3

0.3

Japan

33%

Brazil

31%

7.1

–

7.1

0.1

0.1

0.1

US

22%

115

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

10. Associates and joint ventures continued

2017

Hartford Schroder  
Emerging  
Markets 
Multi-Sector Bond  
Fund 
£m

Schroder Global 
Equity Fund 
£m

Schroder US  
Equity Income  
Maximiser Fund 
£m

Schroder Liquid 
Alternatives 
Investimento No  
Exterior Fundo De  
Investimento 
£m

Schroder  
Advanced Beta 
Global Equity  
Value Fund 
£m

76.1

(0.1)

76.0

6.5

6.1

6.1

USA

24%

362.7

(0.5)

362.2

5.4

5.3

5.3

UK

23%

75.5

–

75.5

1.1

1.0

1.0

UK

23%

12.0

(0.2)

11.8

0.1

0.1

0.1

Brazil

22%

334.5

(3.0)

331.5

17.4

17.4

17.4

UK

27%

Current assets

Current liabilities

Total equity

Net income

Profit for the year

Total comprehensive income

Country of incorporation

Percentage owned by the Group

11. Property, plant and equipment

The Group’s property, plant and equipment provides the infrastructure to enable the Group to operate and principally comprises leasehold 
improvements, freehold land and buildings, fixtures and fittings and computer equipment. Assets are initially stated at cost, which includes 
expenditure associated with acquisition. The cost of the asset is recognised in the income statement as a depreciation charge on a straight 
line basis over the estimated useful life, with the exception of land as it is assumed to have an indefinite useful life.

Cost

At 1 January

Exchange translation adjustments

Additions

Disposals

At 31 December

Accumulated depreciation

At 1 January

Exchange translation adjustments

Depreciation charge for the year

Disposals

At 31 December

2018

Leasehold 
improvements 
£m

Land and 
buildings 
£m

166.0

2.0

76.8

(37.6)

207.2

(50.5)

(1.3)

(8.1)

37.6

(22.3)

23.1

–

0.6

(4.0)

19.7

(0.1)

–

(0.5)

–

(0.6)

Other 
assets 
£m

72.4

1.9

33.7

(15.3)

92.7

(48.1)

(1.1)

(13.2)

15.1

(47.3)

Total 
£m

Leasehold 
improvements 
£m

Land and 
buildings 
£m

2017

261.5

3.9

111.1

(56.9)

319.6

(98.7)

(2.4)

(21.8)

52.7

(70.2)

89.7

(1.1)

81.4

(4.0)

166.0

(50.5)

0.5

(4.5)

4.0

(50.5)

3.9

0.2

19.0

–

23.1

–

–

(0.1)

–

(0.1)

Other 
assets 
£m

61.2

(0.8)

13.0

(1.0)

72.4

(37.9)

0.5

(11.7)

1.0

(48.1)

Total 
£m

154.8

(1.7)

113.4

(5.0)

261.5

(88.4)

1.0

(16.3)

5.0

(98.7)

Net book value at 31 December

184.9

19.1

45.4

249.4

115.5

23.0

24.3

162.8

116

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 201812. Goodwill and intangible assets

Intangible assets (other than software) arise when the Group acquires a business and the fair value paid exceeds the fair value of the net 
tangible assets acquired. This premium reflects additional value that the Group determines to be attached to the business. Identifiable 
acquired intangible assets relating to business combinations include technology, contractual agreements to manage client funds and gain 
additional access to new or existing clients, geographies and brand names. Where such assets can be identified, they are classified as 
acquired intangible assets and charged to the income statement over time. 

Consideration paid to acquire the business in excess of the acquisition date fair value of net tangible and identifiable intangible assets is 
known as goodwill. Goodwill is not charged to the income statement unless its value has diminished. Assessment of whether goodwill has 
become impaired is based on the expected future returns of the relevant cash-generating unit (CGU) as a whole.

Software purchased and developed for use in the business is also classified as an intangible asset. The cost of purchasing and developing 
software is taken to the income statement over time as an amortisation charge within operating expenses. The treatment is similar to 
property, plant and equipment and the asset is normally amortised on a straight line basis over three to five years, but can have estimated 
useful lives of up to 10 years.

Cost

At 1 January

Exchange translation adjustments

Additions

Disposals

At 31 December

Accumulated amortisation

At 1 January

Exchange translation adjustments

Amortisation charge for the year

Disposals

At 31 December

2018

Acquired 
intangible 
assets
£m

Goodwill
£m

Software
£m

Total
£m

Goodwill
£m

2017

Acquired 
intangible 
assets
£m

Software
£m

Total
£m

595.1

247.3

177.4

1,019.8

10.6

70.8

–

4.0

27.1

–

1.6

90.8

(18.4)

16.2

188.7

(18.4)

454.9

(8.2)

148.4

–

186.6

116.2

(3.6)

64.3

–

(1.0)

63.7

(1.5)

757.7

(12.8)

276.4

(1.5)

676.5

278.4

251.4

1,206.3

595.1

247.3

177.4

1,019.8

–

–

–

–

–

(123.3)

(2.0)

(28.8)

–

(154.1)

(70.7)

(1.5)

(30.2)

18.4

(84.0)

(194.0)

(3.5)

(59.0)

18.4

(238.1)

–

–

–

–

–

(97.3)

1.7

(27.7)

–

(53.3)

(150.6)

0.5

(19.4)

1.5

2.2

(47.1)

1.5

(123.3)

(70.7)

(194.0)

Carrying amount at 31 December

676.5

124.3

167.4

968.2

595.1

124.0

106.7

825.8

Of the total goodwill, £492.0 million (2017: £410.8 million) is allocated to Asset Management. Wealth Management goodwill is allocated 
£119.5 million (2017: £119.3 million) to Schroder Wealth and £65.0 million (2017: £65.0 million) to Benchmark Capital.

The Group acquired £24.9 million (2017: £64.3 million) of intangible assets as a result of business combinations completed in 2018, £20.1 million 
of which related to the acquisition of Algonquin Management Partners S.A. in the Asset Management segment and £4.8 million related to 
business combinations completed during the year by Benchmark Capital in the Wealth Management segment. The Group also acquired 
£2.2 million (2017: nil) of customer contracts through Benchmark Capital that were not considered to be business combinations.

Estimates and judgements
The Group estimates the fair value of intangible assets acquired at the acquisition date based on forecast profits, taking account of 
synergies, derived from existing contractual arrangements. This assessment involves judgement in determining assumptions relating to 
potential future revenues, profit margins, appropriate discount rates and the expected duration of client relationships. The Group also made 
estimates to determine the fair value of certain other identifiable assets and liabilities, which included judgement principally with respect to 
the determination of carried interest receivable and related liabilities and specifically the assumed growth rates, realisation dates and 
appropriate discount rates (see note 2). The difference between the fair value of the consideration and the value of the identifiable assets 
and liabilities acquired, including intangible assets, is accounted for as goodwill.

At each reporting date, the Group applies judgement to determine whether there is any indication that goodwill or an acquired intangible 
asset may be impaired. If any indication exists and a full assessment determines that the carrying value exceeds the estimated recoverable 
amount at that time, the assets are written down to their recoverable amount.

The recoverable amount of goodwill is determined using a discounted cash flow model. Any impairment is recognised immediately in the 
income statement and cannot be reversed. Goodwill acquired in a business combination is allocated to the CGUs that are expected to 
benefit from that business combination. For all relevant acquisitions, it is the Group’s judgement that the lowest level of CGU used to 
determine impairment is segment level for Asset Management. The Benchmark Capital business within Wealth Management is assessed 
separately from the rest of Wealth Management.

117

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

12. Goodwill and intangible assets continued

The recoverable amount of acquired intangible assets is the greater of fair value less costs to sell and the updated discounted valuation 
of the remaining net residual income stream. Any impairment is recognised immediately in the income statement but may be reversed 
if relevant conditions improve.

The recoverable amounts of the CGUs are determined from value-in-use calculations applying a discounted cash flow model. The key 
assumptions on which the Group’s cash flow projections are based include long-term market growth rates of 2% per annum (2017: 2%), 
a pre-tax discount rate of 11% (2017: 11%), expected fund flows and expected changes to margins. The results of the calculation indicate 
that goodwill is not impaired.

The sensitivity of the carrying amounts of goodwill to the methods and assumptions used in estimating the recoverable amounts 
of the CGUs is small. This is due to the amount of goodwill allocated to the relevant CGU relative to the size of the relevant future 
profitability estimate.

Movements in the growth rate and/or the discount rate of 1% would not lead to any impairment. A comparison of actual results to the 
projected results used to assess goodwill impairment in prior years reveals that the Group would have recognised no changes (2017: nil) 
to its goodwill asset in the year as a result of inaccurate projections.

13. Deferred tax

Deferred tax assets and liabilities represent amounts of tax that will become recoverable and payable in future accounting periods. They 
arise as a result of temporary differences, where the time at which profits and losses are recognised for tax purposes differs from the time  
at which the relevant transaction is recorded. A deferred tax asset represents a tax reduction that is expected to arise in a future period 
based on past transactions. A deferred tax liability represents taxes that will become payable in a future period as a result of current or 
prior year transactions.

Deferred tax liabilities also arise on certain acquisitions where the amortisation of the acquired intangible asset does not result in a tax 
deduction. The deferred tax liability is established on acquisition and is released to the income statement to match the intangible asset 
amortisation.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply to the period when the asset is realised or the 
liability is settled, based on tax rates (and tax laws) that have been enacted or substantively enacted at the year end date.

2018

2017

Accelerated 
capital 
allowances
£m

Deferred 
employee 
awards
£m

 Pension 
schemes
£m

Other net 
temporary 
differences
£m

 Total
£m

Accelerated 
capital 
allowances
£m

Deferred 
employee 
awards
£m

 Pension 
schemes
£m

Other net 
temporary 
differences
£m

At 1 January

Restatement on adoption of IFRS 151

0.1

–

83.7

(27.4)

(17.2)

39.2

–

–

1.7

1.7

Income statement (charge)/credit

(2.0)

(3.7)

(0.7)

(1.6)

(8.0)

3.5

–

(4.7)

92.7

(20.1)

(10.3)

–

3.7

–

(0.3)

–

5.3

 Total
£m

65.8

–

4.0

Income statement credit/(charge) due 
to changes in tax rates

Credit/(charge) to other 
comprehensive income

(Charge)/credit taken to equity

Charge to equity due to changes in tax 
rates

Business combinations (see note 28)

Exchange translation adjustments

At 31 December

–

–

–

–

–

(0.2)

(2.1)

–

–

(5.9)

–

–

1.5

–

2.0

–

–

–

–

–

–

1.1

(11.2)

0.1

(0.7)

(10.7)

0.8

–

–

2.8

(5.9)

–

(3.8)

(3.8)

0.4

1.7

–

–

–

–

0.2

0.1

–

1.6

(0.6)

–

(2.5)

(7.1)

(0.3)

(7.4)

–

–

–

–

–

–

1.6

(0.6)

(10.9)

(10.9)

(0.3)

(2.6)

83.7

(27.4)

(17.2)

39.2

75.6

(26.1)

(19.7)

27.7

1.  Restated following the adoption of IFRS 15, see Presentation of financial statements on page 149.

A deferred tax asset of £18.8 million (2017: £19.7 million) relating to realised and unrealised capital losses has not been recognised as there 
is insufficient evidence that there will be sufficient taxable gains in the future against which the deferred tax asset could be utilised.

Deferred tax assets of £8.0 million (2017: £7.2 million) relating to other losses and other temporary differences have not been recognised as 
there is insufficient evidence that there will be sufficient taxable profits in the future against which these deferred tax assets could be utilised.

The aggregate amount of gross temporary differences regarding investments in subsidiaries is £2.7 million (2017: £3.4 million). Deferred tax 
has not been provided as the relevant parent company is able to control the timing of the reversal of the temporary differences and it is 
probable that the temporary differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

118

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 201813. Deferred tax continued

After offsetting deferred tax assets and liabilities where appropriate within territories, the net deferred tax asset comprises:

Deferred tax assets

Deferred tax liabilities

2018
£m

42.8

(15.1)

27.7

2017
£m

39.3

(0.1)

39.2

14. Unit-linked liabilities and assets backing unit-linked liabilities

The Group operates a unit-linked life assurance business through the wholly-owned subsidiary Schroder Pension Management Limited 
(Life Company). The Life Company provides investment products through a life assurance wrapper. The investment products do not provide 
cover for any insurance risk and are therefore recognised and accounted for as financial instruments and presented as financial liabilities 
due to Life Company investors (policyholders) within unit-linked liabilities.

The investment product is almost identical to a unit trust. As it is a life assurance product, the contractual rights and obligations of the 
investments remain with the Group and the AUM is therefore included on the Group’s statement of financial position, together with the 
liability to investors. The Group earns fee income from managing the investment, which is included in revenue.

Financial assets and liabilities held by the Life Company are measured at FVTPL and this is unchanged following the adoption of IFRS 9.  
Other balances include cash and receivables, which are measured at amortised cost (see note 9). The Life Company’s assets are regarded 
as current assets as they represent the amount available to Life Company investors (or third party investors in other funds) who are able to 
withdraw their funds on call, subject to certain restrictions in the case of illiquidity. Gains and losses from assets and liabilities held to cover 
investor obligations are attributable to investors in the Life Company or third party investors in the funds. As a result, any gain or loss is 
offset by a change in the obligation to investors.

Financial liabilities due to Life Company investors

Financial liabilities due to third parties1

2018
£m

8,811.3

2,444.6

11,255.9

2017
£m

10,518.2

3,468.2

13,986.4

1.  In accordance with accounting standards, the Group is deemed to hold a controlling interest in certain funds as a result of the investments held by the Life 

Company. This results in all of the assets and liabilities of those funds being consolidated within the Group’s statement of financial position and the third party 
interest in the fund being recorded as a financial liability due to third party investors.

The Group has no primary exposure to market risk, credit risk or liquidity risk in relation to the investments due to Life Company investors. The 
risks and rewards associated with its investments are normally borne by the investors in the Life Company’s investment products or third party 
investors in the funds and not by the Life Company itself.

Fair value measurements of Life Company financial assets and liabilities
Each of the Life Company’s financial assets and liabilities have been categorised using a fair value hierarchy as shown below. These levels are 
based on the degree to which the fair value is observable and are defined in note 9.

Assets backing unit-linked liabilities

Unit-linked liabilities

Assets backing unit-linked liabilities

Unit-linked liabilities

Level 1
£m

6,832.0

10,992.4

Level 1
£m

9,576.3

13,906.1

2018

Level 3
£m

37.3

–

2017

Level 3
£m

54.6

–

Level 2
£m

3,573.4

64.4

Level 2
£m

3,704.5

42.8

Not at 
fair value
£m

813.2

199.1

Not at 
fair value
£m

651.0

37.5

Total
£m

11,255.9

11,255.9

Total
£m

13,986.4

13,986.4

The fair value of financial instruments not held at fair value approximates to their carrying value in 2017 and 2018.

119

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

14. Unit-linked liabilities and assets backing unit-linked liabilities continued

The types of investments found in each of the levels 1 and 3 for the Life Company are the same as those listed for the non-Life Company 
instruments in note 9. Level 2 investments principally comprise commercial papers, certificates of deposit, forward foreign exchange contracts 
and certain debt securities. No financial assets were transferred from level 1 to level 2 during the year. 

Movements in financial assets categorised as level 3 during the year were:

At 1 January

Exchange translation adjustments

Gains recognised in the income statement

Additions

Disposals

At 31 December

15. Trade and other payables

2018
£m

54.6

0.3

10.7

–

(28.3)

37.3

2017
£m

44.5

1.5

4.8

14.1

(10.3)

54.6

Trade and other payables includes amounts the Group is due to pay in the normal course of business, accruals and deferred income, being 
fees received in advance of services provided as well as deferred cash awards and bullion deposits by customers. Trade and other payables, 
other than deferred cash awards and bullion deposits, are recorded initially at fair value and subsequently at amortised cost (see note 9). 
Amounts due to the Group in the normal course of business are made up of creditors and accruals. Accruals represent costs, including 
remuneration, that are not yet billed or due for payment, but for which the goods or services have been received. Deferred cash awards, 
being deferred employee remuneration payable in cash, and bullion deposits by customers are recorded at fair value.

Trade and other payables at amortised cost:

Settlement accounts

Trade creditors

Social security

Accruals and deferred income

Other payables

Trade and other payables at fair value:

Deferred cash awards

Bullion deposits by customers

Non-current
£m

2018

Current
£m

Total
£m

Non-current
£m

2017

Current
£m

–

–

17.6

26.9

13.2

57.7

73.2

–

73.2

177.7

17.3

58.3

512.8

20.2

786.3

62.3

9.1

71.4

177.7

17.3

75.9

539.7

33.4

844.0

135.5

9.1

144.6

–

–

26.0

10.7

2.5

39.2

73.7

–

73.7

186.8

10.6

59.6

457.4

20.0

734.4

63.9

26.5

90.4

Total
£m

186.8

10.6

85.6

468.1

22.5

773.6

137.6

26.5

164.1

130.9

857.7

988.6

112.9

824.8

937.7

The fair value of trade and other payables held at amortised cost approximates to their carrying value. The fair value of bullion deposits by 
customers is derived from level 1 inputs (see note 9). The fair value of deferred cash awards is derived from level 1 inputs, being equal to the fair 
value of the units in funds to which the employee award is linked.

The Group’s trade and other payables contractually mature in the following time periods:

Less than 1 year1

1 – 2 years

2 – 5 years

More than 5 years

2018
£m

857.7

48.7

68.5

13.7

2017
£m

824.8

58.9

51.3

2.7

130.9

112.9

988.6

937.7

1.  Settlement accounts are generally settled within four working days and trade creditors have an average settlement period of 22 working days 

(2017: 20 working days).

120

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 201816. Financial liabilities

The Group’s financial liabilities principally comprise deposits by Wealth Management clients and banking counterparties. They also include 
derivatives held for client facilitation or interest rate matching in Wealth Management (see note 18), and the hedging of risk exposures 
within investment capital. Other financial liabilities at fair value mainly comprise liabilities that arise from financial obligations in respect 
of carried interest, third party interests in consolidated funds, and contingent consideration and other financial liabilities arising from prior 
acquisitions completed by the Group. Consolidation occurs when the Group is deemed to control a fund, usually in respect of Life Company 
or seed capital investments. When a fund is consolidated, the Group accounts for the fund in its statement of financial position as if it were 
wholly-owned by the Group, but records an additional liability representing the fair value of the proportion of the fund owned by third party 
investors. Where the investment is held by the Life Company, the fair value of the proportion of the fund owned by third party investors is 
shown as part of unit-linked liabilities (see note 14). Each instrument has been categorised within one of three levels using a fair value 
hierarchy (see note 9).

Financial liabilities at amortised cost:

Client accounts

Deposits by banks

Other financial liabilities

Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss:

Derivative contracts (see note 18)

Other financial liabilities

Financial liabilities at amortised cost:

Client accounts

Deposits by banks

Other financial liabilities

Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss:

Derivative contracts (see note 18)

Other financial liabilities

2018

Level 1 
£m

Level 2 
£m

Level 3 
£m

Not at 
fair value 
£m

Total
£m

–

–

–

–

3.2

222.6

225.8

–

–

–

–

18.9

–

18.9

–

–

–

–

–

154.4

154.4

3,235.5

3,235.5

19.8

6.2

19.8

6.2

3,261.5

3,261.5

–

–

–

22.1

377.0

399.1

225.8

18.9

154.4

3,261.5

3,660.6

2017

Level 1 
£m

Level 2 
£m

Level 3 
£m

Not at 
fair value 
£m

Total
£m

–

–

–

–

4.9

87.3

92.2

92.2

–

–

–

–

19.3

–

19.3

19.3

–

–

–

–

–

72.4

72.4

3,685.7

3,685.7

59.3

26.4

59.3

26.4

3,771.4

3,771.4

–

–

–

24.2

159.7

183.9

72.4

3,771.4

3,955.3

For the maturity profiles of client accounts, deposits by banks and derivative contracts see notes 18 and 19.

The fair value of financial liabilities held at amortised cost approximates to their carrying value.

Current

Non-current

2018
£m

3,527.0

133.6

3,660.6

2017
£m

3,809.2

146.1

3,955.3

121

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

16. Financial liabilities continued

Estimates and judgements
The carrying value of financial liabilities may involve estimation or be derived from readily available sources. Financial liabilities have been 
categorised using a fair value hierarchy that reflects the extent of estimates and judgements used in the valuation (see note 9). The Group’s 
financial liabilities categorised as level 3 principally consist of obligations arising from contingent consideration related to carried interest 
arrangements and other financial liabilities arising from prior acquisitions completed by the Group. Information about the estimates and 
judgements made in determining the fair value of carried interest payable is set out in note 2.

The carrying values of level 3 financial liabilities are typically derived from an estimate of the expected future cash flows required to settle 
the liability. These estimates reflect the projected performance of the acquired businesses for a number of years into the future. 

Movements in financial liabilities categorised as Level 3 during the year were:

At 1 January 

Exchange translation adjustments 

Net loss/(gain) recognised in the income statement

Additions1

Disposals and settlements

At 31 December 

2018
£m

72.4

4.4

38.1

47.4

(7.9)

154.4

2017
£m

44.2

0.1

(4.1)

32.2

–

72.4

1.  Additions during the year include amounts relating to the acquisition of Algonquin Management Partners S.A. (see note 28).

17. Provisions and contingent liabilities

Provisions are liabilities where there is uncertainty over the timing or amount of settlement and therefore usually require the use of 
estimates. They are recognised when three conditions are fulfilled: when the Group has a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a 
result of a past event, when it is probable that the Group will incur a loss in order to settle the obligation, and when a reliable estimate can 
be made of the amount of the obligation. They are recorded at the Group’s best estimate of the cost of settling the obligation. Any 
differences between those estimates and the amounts for which the Group actually becomes liable are taken to the income statement as 
additional charges where the Group has underestimated and credits where the Group has overestimated. Where the estimated timing and 
settlement is longer-term, the amount is discounted using a rate reflecting specific risks associated with the provision.

Contingent liabilities are potential liabilities where there is even greater uncertainty, which could include a dependency on events not within 
the Group’s control, but where there is a possible obligation. Contingent liabilities are only disclosed where significant and are not included 
within the statement of financial position.

At 1 January 2018

Exchange translation adjustments

Provisions utilised

Additional provisions charged in the year

Unused amounts reversed in the year

At 31 December 2018

Dilapidations and 
onerous leases
£m

Legal, regulatory 
and other
£m

18.6

–

(9.1)

0.4

(4.2)

5.7

25.4

(0.5)

(2.4)

5.2

(2.0)

25.7

Total
£m

44.0

(0.5)

(11.5)

5.6

(6.2)

31.4

122

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 201817. Provisions and contingent liabilities continued

Current – 2018

Non-current – 2018

Current – 2017

Non-current – 2017

The Group’s provisions are expected to mature in the following time periods:

Less than 1 year

1 – 2 years

2 – 3 years

3 – 4 years

4 – 5 years

More than 5 years

Dilapidations and 
onerous leases
£m

Legal, regulatory 
and other
£m

2.6

3.1

5.7

16.2

2.4

18.6

9.6

16.1

25.7

9.0

16.4

25.4

2018
£m

12.2

17.1

0.4

–

0.2

1.5

Total
£m

12.2

19.2

31.4

25.2

18.8

44.0

2017
£m

25.2

16.8

0.6

0.6

0.2

0.6

19.2

18.8

31.4

44.0

The provision for dilapidations and onerous leases covers lease commitments with a weighted average maturity of two years (2017: one year).

Legal and regulatory obligations associated with the Group’s business arise from past events that are estimated to crystallise mainly within two 
years (2017: two years). These matters are ongoing.

Estimates and judgements
The timing and amount of settlement of each legal claim or potential claim, regulatory matter and constructive obligation is uncertain. 
The Group applies judgement to determine whether a provision is required. The Group performs an assessment of the timing and amount 
of each event and reviews this assessment periodically. For some provisions, including the provision for onerous leases, there is greater 
certainty as the cash flows have largely been determined. Potential legal claims, regulatory related costs and other obligations to third 
parties arise as a consequence of normal business activity. They can arise from actual or alleged breaches of obligations and may be covered 
by the Group’s insurance arrangements, but subject to insurance excess. In certain circumstances, legal and regulatory claims can arise 
despite there being no error or breach. The Group’s risk management and compliance procedures are designed to mitigate, but are not 
able to eliminate, the risk of losses occurring. Where such claims and costs arise there is often uncertainty over whether a payment will be 
required and estimation is required in determining the quantum and timing of that payment. As a result, there is also uncertainty over the 
timing and amount of any insurance recovery, although this does not change the likelihood of insurance cover being available, where 
applicable. The Group makes periodic assessments of all cash flows, including taking external advice where appropriate, to determine an 
appropriate provision. Some matters may be settled through commercial negotiation as well as being covered in whole or in part by the 
Group’s insurance arrangements. The Group has made provisions based on the reasonable expectation of likely outflows. The inherent 
uncertainty in such matters and the results of negotiations and insurance cover may result in different outcomes.

At 31 December 2018, there are no key judgements or estimates that would result in any additional material provisions being recognised 
or any material contingent liabilities being disclosed in the financial statements (31 December 2017: none). The provisions included in the 
financial statements at 31 December 2018 are based on estimates of reasonable ranges of likely outcomes, applying assumptions regarding 
the probability of payments being due and the settlement value. The aggregate reasonable ranges have been assessed as not materially 
different to the carrying values.

123

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

18. Derivative contracts
(a) The Group’s use of derivatives

The Group holds derivatives for risk management, client facilitation, and within its investment portfolios to provide exposure to market 
returns. The Group most commonly uses forward foreign exchange contracts where it agrees to buy or sell specified amounts of a named 
currency at a future date, allowing the Group effectively to fix exchange rates so that it can avoid unpredictable gains and losses on financial 
instruments in foreign currencies. The Group uses equity contracts to hedge market-related gains and losses on its seed capital investments 
where the purpose of investing is to help establish a new product rather than gain additional market exposure. Interest rate contracts are 
used to hedge exposures to fixed or floating rates of interest.

Where derivatives are held for risk management purposes, the Group designates certain derivatives as hedges of a net investment in a 
foreign operation. In these scenarios, and where relevant conditions are met, hedge accounting is applied and the Group formally 
documents the relationship between the derivative and any hedged item, its risk management objectives and its strategy for undertaking 
the various hedging transactions. It also documents its assessment, both at hedge inception and on an ongoing basis, of whether the 
derivatives that are used in hedging transactions are highly effective in offsetting changes in the fair value of hedged items. In respect of 
hedges of a net investment in a foreign operation, the portion of the gain or loss on the hedging instrument that is determined to be an 
effective hedge is recognised directly in other comprehensive income. The Group’s net investment hedges are generally fully effective, but 
any ineffective portion that may arise is recognised in the income statement. On disposal of the foreign operation, the cumulative gain or 
loss on the hedging instrument recognised directly in other comprehensive income is transferred to the income statement.

Risk management: the Group actively seeks to limit and manage its exposures to risk where that exposure is not desired by the Group. 
This may take the form of unwanted exposures to a particular currency, type of interest rate or other price risk. By entering into derivative 
contracts, the Group is able to mitigate or eliminate such exposures. The principal risk that the Group faces through such use of derivative 
contracts is credit risk.

Client facilitation: the Group’s Wealth Management entities are involved in providing portfolio management, banking and investment advisory 
services, primarily to private clients. In carrying out this business, they transact as agent or as principal in financial assets and liabilities (including 
derivatives) in order to facilitate client portfolio requirements. Wealth Management’s policy is to hedge, as appropriate, exchange rate and 
interest rate risk on its client facilitation positions. This does not eliminate credit risk.

For details of how the Group manages its exposure to credit risk, see below and note 19.

(b) Derivatives used by the Group
Currency forwards are contractual obligations to receive or pay amounts based on changes in currency rates or to buy or sell foreign currency 
or a financial instrument on a future date at a specified price. For currency forward contracts, the maximum exposure to credit risk is 
represented by the fair value of the contracts.

Currency and interest rate swaps are commitments to exchange one set of cash flows for another. Swaps result in an economic exchange of 
currencies or interest rates (for example, fixed rate for floating rate) or a combination of all these (i.e. cross-currency interest rate swaps). No 
exchange of principal takes place, except in the case of certain currency swaps. The Group’s credit risk represents the potential cost of replacing 
the swap contracts if counterparties fail to perform their obligations. This risk is monitored on an ongoing basis with reference to the current fair 
value, a proportion of the notional amount of the contracts, and the liquidity of the market. To control the level of credit risk taken, the Group 
assesses counterparties in accordance with its internal policies and procedures.

Foreign exchange, equity and interest rate options are contractual agreements under which the seller grants the purchaser the right, but not the 
obligation, either to buy (a call option) or sell (a put option) at or by a set date or during a set period, a specific amount of a foreign currency or a 
financial instrument at a predetermined price. The seller receives a premium from the purchaser and assumes foreign exchange, equity or 
interest rate risk. Options may be either exchange-traded or negotiated between the Group and a customer or market counterparty.

The Group is exposed to credit risk on purchased options only, and only to the extent of their carrying amount, which is their fair value.

Futures contracts are standardised contracts to buy or sell specified assets for an agreed price at a specified future date. Contracts are 
negotiated at a futures exchange, which acts as an intermediary between the two parties. For futures contracts, the maximum exposure to credit 
risk is represented by the fair value of the contracts.

124

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 201818. Derivative contracts continued
(b) Derivatives used by the Group continued
The fair value of derivative instruments becomes favourable (assets) or unfavourable (liabilities) as a result of fluctuations in market interest 
rates, indices, foreign exchange rates and other relevant variables relative to their terms. The aggregate contractual amount of derivative 
financial instruments held, the extent to which instruments are favourable or unfavourable, and thus the aggregate fair values of derivative 
financial assets and liabilities, can fluctuate significantly from time to time. The fair values are set out below:

Forward foreign exchange contracts

Equity contracts

Net-settled derivative contracts1 maturing/repricing2 in:

Less than 1 year

1 – 3 years

3 – 5 years

More than 5 years

Gross-settled derivatives3 maturing/repricing2 in less than 1 year:

Gross inflows

Gross outflows

Difference between future contractual cash flows and fair value

1.  Interest rate and equity contracts.
2.  Whichever is earlier.
3.  Forward foreign exchange contracts.

2018

2017

Assets
£m

9.0

29.3

38.3

Liabilities
£m

(13.0)

(9.1)

(22.1)

Assets
£m

22.1

23.2

45.3

Liabilities
£m

(11.8)

(12.4)

(24.2)

2018

2017

Assets
£m

Liabilities
£m

Assets
£m

Liabilities
£m

20.3

9.0

–

–

(9.1)

–

–

–

29.3

(9.1)

9.8

–

13.4

–

23.2

852.7

(846.9)

3.2

9.0

624.0

(627.5)

(9.5)

(13.0)

1,283.8

(1,273.2)

11.5

22.1

(12.4)

–

–

–

(12.4)

813.5

(817.9)

(7.4)

(11.8)

38.3

(22.1)

45.3

(24.2)

125

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

19. Financial instrument risk management

The Group Capital Committee (GCC) is responsible for the management of the Group’s capital and sets objectives for how it is deployed. This 
note explains how the Group manages its capital, setting out the nature of the risks the Group faces as a result of its operations, and how 
these risks are quantified and managed.

The Group is exposed to different forms of financial instrument risk including: (i) the risk that money owed to the Group will not be received 
(credit risk); (ii) the risk that the Group may not have sufficient cash available to pay its creditors as they fall due (liquidity risk); and (iii) the 
risk that the value of assets will fluctuate as a result of movements in factors such as market prices, interest rates and foreign exchange 
rates (market risk). The management of such risks is embedded in managerial responsibilities fundamental to the wellbeing of the Group.

The Group’s primary exposure to financial instrument risk is derived from the financial instruments that it holds as principal. In addition, 
due to the nature of the business, the Group’s exposure extends to the impact on investment management and other fees that are 
determined on the basis of a percentage of AUM and are therefore impacted by financial instrument risk exposure of our clients – the 
secondary exposure. This note deals only with the direct or primary exposure of the risks from the Group’s holding of financial instruments 
(see the Key Risks and Mitigations report on page 40).

The Life Company provides investment products through a life assurance wrapper. The financial risks of these products are largely borne by 
the third party investors, consistent with other investment products managed by the Group. However, since the Life Company, which is a 
subsidiary, issues the investment instrument and holds the relevant financial assets, both the investments and the third party obligations 
are recorded in the statement of financial position. Financial instrument risk management disclosures in respect of the Life Company’s 
financial instruments are set out in note 14.

(a) Capital
The Group’s approach to capital management is to maintain a strong capital position to enable us to invest in the future of the Group, in line 
with our strategy, and to support the risks inherent in conducting our business. Capital management is an important part of our risk 
management framework and is underpinned by our Internal Capital Adequacy Assessment Process (ICAAP). The ICAAP considers the relevant 
current and future risks to the business and the capital we consider necessary to support these risks. We actively monitor our capital base to 
ensure we maintain sufficient and appropriate capital resources to cover the relevant risks to the business and to meet consolidated and local 
regulatory and working capital requirements.

Our lead regulator is the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) as the Group includes an entity with a UK banking license. We are required to 
maintain adequate capital resources to meet our Total Capital Requirement (TCR) of £827 million (2017: £799 million). The TCR incorporates our 
Pillar 1 regulatory capital requirement of £605 million (2017: £583 million). In addition to the Total Capital Requirement of our banking group, we 
are required to hold additional capital of £194 million (2017: £145 million) in respect of our insurance companies and EU regulatory buffers. The 
Group’s overall regulatory capital requirement was £1,021 million at 31 December 2018 (2017: £899 million). This requirement increased to 
£1,126 million on 1 January 2019 (1 January 2018: £944 million) as a result of the final increase in the capital conversation buffer following the 
regulatory transition period together with the impact of IFRS 16 Leases (see Presentation of financial statements on page 149). Following these 
changes, the Group’s regulatory surplus capital at 1 January 2019 was £1.2 billion (1 January 2018: £1.4 billion).

In managing our capital position, we consider the composition of our capital base, which consists of: Working capital deployed to support the 
Group’s general operating activities and regulatory requirements; Investment capital held in excess of these operating requirements; and other 
items that are not investible or otherwise available to meet our operating or regulatory requirements.

The table below shows the components of our capital position.

Working capital – regulatory and other

Working capital – seed and co-investment

Investment capital – liquid

Investment capital – illiquid

Other items1

Total equity

2018
£m

1,341

535

465

165

1,115

3,621

2017
£m

1,090

392

696

147

1,146

3,471

1.  Comprises regulatory deductions, principally goodwill, intangible assets and pension scheme surplus.

(i) Working capital
The Group’s policy is for subsidiaries to hold sufficient working capital to meet their regulatory and other operating requirements.  
Local regulators oversee the activities of, and impose minimum capital and liquidity requirements on, the Group’s operating entities.  
At 31 December 2018, the Group, and all regulated entities within the Group, complied with minimum regulatory capital requirements.

Working capital is also deployed through certain subsidiaries to support new investment strategies and growth opportunities and to co-invest 
alongside the Group’s clients.

126

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 201819. Financial instrument risk management continued
(a) Capital continued
(ii) Investment capital
Available capital held in excess of working capital requirements is transferred to investment capital. Investment capital is managed with the aim 
of achieving a low-volatility return. It is mainly held in investment grade corporate bonds and funds managed by the Group. These liquid 
investments are available to support the organic development of existing and new business strategies and to respond to other investment and 
growth opportunities as they arise, such as acquisitions. Investment capital also includes certain commercial private equity investments and 
illiquid legacy investments.

(iii) Other items
Other items comprises assets that are not investible or available to meet the Group’s general operating or regulatory requirements. It includes 
assets that are actually or potentially inadmissible for regulatory capital purposes such as goodwill and intangible assets.

The table below provides a detailed breakdown of the Group’s capital in accordance with IFRS 9:

Assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other receivables

Financial assets:

Loans and advances to banks

Loans and advances to clients 

Debt securities

Pooled investment vehicles

Equities

Derivatives

Associates and joint ventures

Property, plant and equipment

Goodwill and intangible assets

Deferred tax

Retirement benefit scheme surplus

Assets backing unit-linked liabilities

Total assets

Liabilities

Trade and other payables

Financial liabilities

Current tax

Provisions

Deferred tax

Retirement benefit scheme deficits

Unit-linked liabilities

Total liabilities

Capital

Financial 
instruments at 
amortised cost  
£m

Financial assets 
at fair value 
through other 
comprehensive 
income  
£m

2018

Financial 
instruments 
at fair value 
through 
profit or loss1
£m

Non-financial  
instruments  
£m

2,683.4

696.8

384.2

572.6

139.1

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

813.2

5,289.3

768.1

3,261.5

–

–

–

–

199.1

4,228.7

–

–

–

–

929.3

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

929.3

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

2.4

369.0

700.4

219.6

38.3

–

–

–

–

–

10,442.7

11,772.4

135.5

399.1

–

–

–

–

11,056.8

11,591.4

–

52.1

–

–

–

–

–

–

175.2

249.4

968.2

42.8

155.6

–

1,643.3

85.0

–

44.2

31.4

15.1

17.3

–

193.0

Total 
£m

2,683.4

748.9

384.2

575.0

1,437.4

700.4

219.6

38.3

175.2

249.4

968.2

42.8

155.6

11,255.9

19,634.3

988.6

3,660.6

44.2

31.4

15.1

17.3

11,255.9

16,013.1

3,621.2

1.  Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss includes £10,475.6 million of assets that are designated at fair value through profit or loss and £1,296.8 million 

that are mandatorily measured at fair value through profit or loss. Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss includes £11,501.9 million of liabilities that 
are designated at fair value through profit or loss and £89.5 million that are mandatorily measured at fair value through profit or loss.

127

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

19. Financial instrument risk management continued
(a) Capital continued
The table below provides a detailed breakdown of the Group’s capital in accordance with IAS 39:

Assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other receivables

Financial assets: 

Loans and advances to banks

Loans and advances to clients

Debt securities

Pooled investment vehicles

Equities

Derivatives

Associates and joint ventures

Property, plant and equipment

Goodwill and intangible assets

Deferred tax

Retirement benefit scheme surplus

Assets backing unit-linked liabilities

Total assets

Liabilities

Trade and other payables

Financial liabilities

Current tax

Provisions

Deferred tax

Retirement benefit scheme deficits

Unit-linked liabilities

Total liabilities

Capital

Loans and 
receivables/ 
liabilities at 
amortised cost  
£m

Financial assets 
held to 
maturity  
£m

Financial 
instruments at fair 
value through 
profit or loss1
£m

Available-for-sale 
financial assets 
£m

Non-financial  
instruments  
£m

2017

2,947.0

671.3

783.2

557.3

141.5

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

651.0

5,751.3

688.0

3,771.4

–

–

–

–

37.5

4,496.9

–

–

–

–

10.2

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

10.2

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

0.7

149.8

662.9

135.0

45.3

–

–

–

–

–

13,335.4

14,329.1

137.6

183.9

–

–

–

–

13,948.9

14,270.4

–

–

–

–

932.6

49.6

12.7

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

67.7

–

–

–

–

–

–

143.9

162.8

825.8

39.3

162.9

–

994.9

1,402.4

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

112.1

–

78.1

44.0

0.1

15.3

–

249.6

Total 
£m

2,947.0

739.0

783.2

558.0

1,234.1

712.5

147.7

45.3

143.9

162.8

825.8

39.3

162.9

13,986.4

22,487.9

937.7

3,955.3

78.1

44.0

0.1

15.3

13,986.4

19,016.9

3,471.0

1.  Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss includes £13,367.4 million of assets that are designated at fair value trough profit or loss and £961.7 million that 
are held for trading. Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss includes £14,211.0 million of liabilities that are designated at fair value through profit or 
loss and £59.4 million that are mandatorily measured at fair value through profit or loss.

(b) Credit risk, liquidity risk and market risk
The Group is exposed to credit, liquidity and market risk as a result of the financial instruments it holds. Settlement of financial instruments 
(on both a principal and agency basis) also gives rise to operational risk. The Group’s risk management framework is critical to effective 
management of these risks and considerable resources are dedicated to this area. Risk management is the direct responsibility of the Board, 
with responsibility for oversight delegated to the Audit and Risk Committee. The Group applies the three lines of defence model to risk 
management, which includes financial instrument risk. More details on the risk management framework and approach are set out in the Key 
Risks and Mitigations report and the Audit and Risk Committee report on pages 40 and 62 respectively.

(i) Credit risk
Credit risk is the risk that a counterparty to a financial instrument, loan or commitment will cause the Group financial loss by failing to discharge 
their obligations. For this purpose, the impact on fair value of a credit loss arising from credit spread price changes in a portfolio of investments 
is excluded. This risk is addressed within Pricing risk.

128

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 
19. Financial instrument risk management continued
(b) Credit risk, liquidity risk and market risk continued
(i) Credit risk continued
The Group has exposure to credit risk from its normal activities where it is exposed to the risk that a counterparty will be unable to pay, in full, 
amounts when due. The Group carefully manages its exposure to credit risk by: approving lending policies that specify the type of acceptable 
collateral and minimum lending margins; setting limits for exposures to individual counterparties and sectors; and by taking security. The 
Group’s maximum exposure to credit risk is represented by the gross carrying value of its financial assets.

Externally published credit ratings are indicators of the level of credit risk associated with a counterparty. A breakdown of the Group’s relevant 
financial assets held with rated and unrated counterparties is set out below:

Cash and cash equivalents

Loans and advances to banks 

Debt securities 

Credit rating:

AAA

AA+

AA

AA-

A+

A

A-

BBB+ and lower

Not rated1

2018
£m

374.3

0.9

2017
£m

495.0

39.5

1,148.0

1,051.4

247.6

489.6

249.8

161.7

7.1

4.4

341.4

453.9

410.6

54.9

89.2

11.1

2018
£m

–

–

27.0

36.8

256.6

42.9

20.9

–

–

2,683.4

2,947.0

384.2

2017
£m

41.1

33.5

54.5

41.4

283.5

148.7

118.9

61.6

–

783.2

2018
£m

356.5

12.6

209.6

214.0

95.6

142.7

78.8

270.3

57.3

2017
£m

201.2

10.3

195.3

97.4

150.7

129.3

107.6

318.2

24.1

1,437.4

1,234.1

1.  Not rated debt securities include redeemable preference shares issued by A10 Capital Parent Company LLC (see note 10).

The Group adopted IFRS 9 Financial Instruments on 1 January 2018. Prior to adoption of IFRS 9, impairment was only recognised when a default 
occurred. Under IFRS 9, expected credit losses are calculated on all of the Group’s financial assets that are measured at amortised cost and all 
debt instruments that are measured at fair value through other comprehensive income. Factors considered in determining whether a default 
has taken place include how many days past the due date a payment is, deterioration in the credit quality of a counterparty, and knowledge of 
specific events that could influence a counterparty’s ability to pay. In accordance with the transition provisions of IFRS 9, comparative 
information has not been restated.

A three stage model is used for calculating expected credit losses, which requires financial assets to be assessed as:

 – Performing (stage 1) – Financial assets where there has been no significant increase in credit risk since original recognition; or

 – Under-performing (stage 2) – Financial assets where there has been a significant increase in credit risk since initial recognition, but no default; 

or,

 – Non-performing (stage 3) – Financial assets that are in default.

For financial assets in stage 1, expected credit losses are calculated based on the credit losses that are expected to be incurred over the following 
twelve-month period. For financial assets in stage 2 and 3, expected credit losses are calculated based on expected credit losses expected to be 
incurred over the life of the instrument. The Group applies the simplified approach to calculate expected credit losses for trade and other 
receivables. Under this approach, instruments are not categorised into three stages and expected credit losses are calculated based on the life 
of the instrument.

Wealth Management activities
All client credit requests are presented to the relevant Wealth Management approval authorities and counterparty exposures are monitored 
daily against limits. Loans, overdrafts and advances to clients as well as certain derivative positions are secured on a range of assets including 
real estate (both residential and commercial), cash, client portfolios and life insurance policies.

The Group does not usually provide loans, overdrafts or advances to clients on an unsecured basis. Where disposal of non-cash collateral is 
required, in the event of default, the terms and conditions relevant to the specific contract and country will apply. Portfolios held as collateral are 
marked to market daily and positions compared to clients’ exposures. Credit limits are set following an assessment of the market value and 
lending value of each type of collateral, depending on the perceived risk associated with the collateral. Clients are contacted if these limits are 
breached, or if collateral is not sufficient to cover the outstanding exposure.

The collateral accepted by the Group includes certain investment-grade securities that can be sold or repledged without default of the provider. 
At 31 December 2018 the fair value of collateral that could be sold or repledged but had not been, relating solely to these arrangements, was 
£497.4 million (2017: £591.4 million).

Debt securities held within the Wealth Management treasury book are mainly unsecured. Policies covering various counterparty and market risk 
limits are set and monitored by the relevant Wealth Management asset and liability management committees. All instruments held within the 
Wealth Management treasury book have an investment grade credit rating. 

129

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

19. Financial instrument risk management continued
(b) Credit risk, liquidity risk and market risk continued
(i) Credit risk continued
Wealth Management takes a conservative approach to its treasury investments placing them with, or purchasing debt securities issued by, 
UK and overseas banks and corporates, central banks, supranational banks and sovereigns.

Expected credit losses on financial assets at amortised cost within the Wealth Management entities at 31 December 2018 were £0.4 million. 
Loans and advances to clients includes £1.8 million of under-performing (stage 2) loans and £0.2 million of non-performing (stage 3) loans 
giving rise to £0.1 million and £0.2 million of expected credit losses respectively. All other financial assets at amortised cost (excluding trade 
and other receivables to which the three stage model is not applied) were performing (stage 1). 

Expected credit losses on financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income within the Wealth Management entities at 
31 December 2018 were £0.1 million. All financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income were performing (stage 1).

Other activities
Fee debtors and other receivables arise as a result of the Group’s asset management activities and amounts are monitored regularly. 
Historically, default levels have been insignificant and unless a client has withdrawn its funds, there is an ongoing relationship between 
the Group and the client.

Fee debtors past due but not in default as at 31 December 2018 were £20.0 million (31 December 2017: £21.9 million), the majority of which 
is less than 90 days past due (31 December 2017: less than 90 days).

The Group seeks to manage its exposure to credit risk arising from debt securities and derivatives within the investment portfolio by adopting 
a conservative approach and through ongoing credit analysis. Corporate bond portfolios have an investment grade mandate, and exposure to 
sub-investment grade debt is low.

Derivative positions, other than forward foreign exchange contracts, are taken in exchange-traded securities where there is minimal credit risk. 
Forward foreign exchange positions generally have a maturity of one month.

The Group’s cash and cash equivalents in the non-Wealth Management entities are held primarily in current accounts, on deposit with well-rated 
banks, or invested in money market funds.

Expected credit losses on financial assets at amortised cost within non-Wealth Management entities at 31 December 2018 were £0.7 million.  
All financial assets at amortised cost (excluding trade and other receivables to which the three stage model is not applied) were  
performing (stage 1). 

Expected credit losses on financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income within non-Wealth Management entities at 
31 December 2018 were £0.6 million. Debt securities includes £11.3 million of under-performing (stage 2) securities giving rise to £0.2 million 
of expected credit losses respectively. All other financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income were performing (stage 1).

(ii) Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group cannot meet its obligations as they fall due or can only do so at a cost. The Group has a clearly defined 
liquidity risk management framework in place in the form of a Consolidated Group Internal Liquidity Adequacy Assessment Process (ILAAP). 
The Group policy is that its subsidiaries should trade solvently, comply with regulatory liquidity requirements, and have access to adequate 
liquidity for all activities undertaken in the normal course of business. As part of its ILAAP, the Group performs stress testing to ensure sufficient 
liquidity is available to cover severe but plausible stress events. In particular, all companies should maintain sufficient liquid funds to meet peak 
working capital requirements.

Wealth Management activities
The principal liquidity risk in the Group’s Wealth Management business arises as a result of its banking activities, where the timing of cash flows 
from liabilities relating to client accounts can be impacted by client action. The objective of the Group’s liquidity policy is to maintain sufficient 
liquidity within the relevant entities to meet regulatory and prudential requirements, to cover cash flow imbalances and fluctuations in funding, 
and to ensure the timely repayment of funds to depositors.

Liquidity positions are actively monitored and cash flows are managed to ensure sufficient liquidity is available to cover potential liquidity risks 
in individual currencies and in aggregate.

130

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 201819. Financial instrument risk management continued
(b) Credit risk, liquidity risk and market risk continued
(ii) Liquidity risk continued
The contractual maturity of Wealth Management financial assets and liabilities is set out below:

Assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Loans and advances to banks

Loans and advances to clients

Debt securities

Other financial assets

Total financial assets

Liabilities

Client accounts

Deposits by banks

Other financial liabilities

Total financial liabilities

Less than 1 year
£m

1–2 years
£m

2–3 years
£m

2018

3–4 years
£m

4–5 years
£m

More than 5 years
£m

Total
£m

2,097.7

368.8

393.7

404.7

4.2

3,269.1

3,232.8

19.8

11.8

3,264.4

–

–

54.6

198.6

–

253.2

1.1

–

2.9

4.0

–

–

–

–

–

–

54.3

17.0

55.4

–

–

–

–

–

–

54.3

17.0

55.4

1.6

–

–

1.6

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

2,097.7

368.8

575.0

603.3

4.2

3,649.0

3,235.5

19.8

14.7

3,270.0

Cumulative gap

4.7

253.9

306.6

323.6

379.0

379.0

379.0

Less than 1 year
£m

1–2 years
£m

2–3 years
£m

2017

3–4 years
£m

4–5 years
£m

More than 5 years
£m

Total
£m

Assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Loans and advances to banks

Loans and advances to clients

Debt securities

Other financial assets

Total financial assets

Liabilities

Client accounts

Deposits by banks

Other financial liabilities

Total financial liabilities

2,269.2

765.5

339.5

399.9

11.4

3,785.5

–

–

121.1

124.8

–

245.9

–

–

–

–

–

–

30.6

45.4

15.9

–

–

–

–

–

–

30.6

45.4

15.9

3,635.3

39.0

57.7

11.1

–

–

3,704.1

39.0

1.1

–

–

1.1

10.3

–

–

10.3

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

2,269.2

765.5

552.5

524.7

11.4

4,123.3

3,685.7

57.7

11.1

3,754.5

Cumulative gap

81.4

288.3

317.8

352.9

368.8

368.8

368.8

Other activities
The Group’s exposure to liquidity risk outside of its Wealth management activities is low. Excluding the Life Company and consolidated funds, 
the Asset Management and Group segment together hold cash and cash equivalents of £552.6 million (2017: £640.6 million). Financial liabilities 
relating to other operating entities are £390.6 million (2017: £200.8 million).

The Group has a committed loan facility of £510.0 million (2017: £510.0 million) that expires on 4 October 2023, which was undrawn at  
31 December 2018 (31 December 2017: undrawn).

(iii) Market risk
Market risk is the risk that the value of assets will fluctuate as a result of movements in factors such as market prices, interest rates and foreign 
exchange rates.

Pricing risk
Pricing risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of financial instruments will fluctuate because of changes in market prices other 
than those arising from interest rate risk or currency risk.

In respect of financial instrument risk, the Group’s exposure to pricing risk is principally through investments held in investment capital,  
seed and co-investment capital, deferred employee compensation in the form of fund awards and some investments held for regulatory  
capital purposes.

131

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

19. Financial instrument risk management continued
(b) Credit risk, liquidity risk and market risk continued
(iii) Market risk continued
Pricing risk continued
The Group does not hedge exposures to pricing risk except in relation to seed capital, where it is practical to do so, and in respect of deferred 
employee compensation awards, where these can be matched by interests in funds managed by the Group. Where financial instruments are 
held to hedge deferred compensation awards, movements in the fair value of the asset are normally offset by changes in the amounts payable 
to employees (see note 4).

Interest rate risk
Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of financial instruments will fluctuate because of changes in market  
interest rates.

Wealth Management activities
In Wealth Management, interest rate risk is monitored against policies and limits set by the relevant risk committee on a daily basis. Interest rate 
risk is managed within set limits by matching asset and liability positions and through the use of interest rate swaps.

Sensitivity-based and stress-based models are used for monitoring interest rate risk. These models assess the impact of a prescribed basis  
point rise in interest rates, and potential impact of severe but plausible stress scenarios. The impact is calculated regularly for individual currency 
exposures and in aggregate.

Other activities
Cash held by the other operating companies is not normally expected to be placed on deposit for longer than three months and is not exposed 
to significant interest rate risk.

The Group’s capital includes investments in corporate investment-grade bonds managed by the Group’s fixed income fund managers.  
The market risk (including interest rate risk) exposure of these investments is actively monitored against limits set by the Board.

Foreign exchange risk
Foreign exchange risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of financial instruments will fluctuate because of changes in foreign 
exchange rates.

Wealth Management activities
In Wealth Management, some loans and advances to clients, client deposits and a proportion of the treasury activities are undertaken in foreign 
currencies. This is managed by the treasury departments within agreed limits that are set and monitored by the relevant risk committees.

Other activities
The Group’s policy in relation to foreign exchange risks arising from revenue, expenditure and capital currency exposure from its Asset 
Management activities is generally not to hedge. The Group’s revenue is earned and expenditure incurred in many currencies and the resulting 
exposure is considered to be a normal part of the Group’s business activities.

The Group also has exposure to foreign currency through investments in currencies other than sterling. The Group uses forward foreign 
exchange contracts with third parties to mitigate this exposure. The gain or loss on the hedging instruments is included in the statement of 
other comprehensive income or the income statement, as appropriate. The use of such instruments is subject to approval by the GCC.

The sensitivities to market risk are estimated as follows:

Variable1

Interest rates2

US dollar against sterling3

Euro against sterling3

US dollar against Euro3

FTSE-All Share Index4

31 December 2018

31 December 2017

A reasonable  
change in the  
variable within  
the next 
calendar year
%

Increase/
(decrease) in  
post-tax profit
£m

Increase/
(decrease)  
in other  
components  
of equity
£m

A reasonable  
change in the  
variable within  
the next  
calendar year
%

Increase/
(decrease) in  
post-tax profit
£m

Increase/
(decrease)  
in other 
components  
of equity
£m

-increase

-decrease

-strengthen

-weaken

-strengthen

-weaken

-increase

-decrease

-strengthen

-weaken

1.0

(0.5)

15

(20)

7

(10)

7

(10)

20

(20)

4

(2)

2

(2)

1

(1)

2

(2)

42

(42)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

0.5

(0.5)

10

(8)

10

(6)

10

(10)

20

(20)

3

(3)

3

(2)

2

(1)

4

(4)

14

(14)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

1

(1)

1.  The underlying assumption is that there is one variable increase/decrease with all other variables held constant.
2.  Assumes that the fair value of assets and liabilities will not be affected by a change in interest rates.
3. The 2017 sensitivities for changes in foreign exchange rates have been re-presented following a change in methodology.
4.  Assumes that changes in the FTSE-All Share Index correlate to changes in the fair value of the Group’s equity investments.

These sensitivities concern only the direct impact on financial instruments and exclude indirect impacts on fee income and certain costs that may 
be affected by changes in the variable. The changes used in the sensitivity analysis were provided by the Group’s Global Economics team who 
determine reasonable assumptions.

132

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 201820. Share capital and share premium

Share capital represents the number of issued ordinary and non-voting ordinary shares in Schroders plc multiplied by their nominal value of 
£1 each. Share premium substantially represents the aggregate of all amounts that have ever been paid above nominal value to Schroders 
plc when it has issued ordinary and non-voting ordinary shares. There are certain circumstances in which the share premium can be reduced 
but these have not arisen in 2017 or 2018. The Company has no authority to issue, buy back, or cancel ordinary shares in issue (including 
those held in trust) and has authority limited by shareholder resolution to issue or purchase non-voting ordinary shares, which may either 
be cancelled or held in treasury.

At 1 January 2018

At 31 December 2018

At 1 January 2017

Shares cancelled

At 31 December 2017

Number  
of shares  
Millions

282.5

282.5

Number  
of shares  
Millions

282.7

(0.2)

282.5

Ordinary  
shares
£m

226.0

226.0

Ordinary  
shares
£m

226.0

–

226.0

Non-voting  
ordinary  
shares
£m

56.5

56.5

Non-voting  
ordinary  
shares
£m

56.7

(0.2)

56.5

Total  
shares
£m

282.5

282.5

Total  
shares
£m

282.7

(0.2)

282.5

Share  
premium
£m

124.2

124.2

Share  
premium
£m

124.2

–

124.2

During the year ended 31 December 2017, 233,623 non-voting ordinary shares were bought back by the Group for a value of £5.4 million and cancelled.

Issued and fully paid:

Ordinary shares of £1 each

Non-voting ordinary shares of £1 each

2018  
Number  
of shares  
Millions

2017  
Number  
of shares  
Millions

226.0

56.5

282.5

226.0

56.5

282.5

The difference between the share classes
The non-voting ordinary shares carry the same rights as ordinary shares except that they do not confer the right to attend and vote at any 
general meeting of the Company, and that on a capitalisation issue they carry the right to receive non-voting ordinary shares rather 
than ordinary shares.

133

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

21. Own shares

Own shares are recorded by the Group when non-voting ordinary shares are acquired by the Company, or ordinary or non-voting ordinary 
shares are acquired through employee benefit trusts. This enables the Group to hold some of its shares in treasury to settle option exercises 
or for other permitted purposes. Own shares are held at cost and their purchase reduces the Group’s net assets by the amount spent.  
When shares vest unconditionally or are cancelled, they are transferred from own shares to the profit and loss reserve at their weighted 
average cost.

Movements in own shares during the year were as follows:

At 1 January

Own shares purchased

Own shares cancelled

Awards vested

At 31 December

2018
£m

(162.3)

(74.9)

–

73.3

2017
£m

(163.6)

(56.6)

5.4

52.5

(163.9)

(162.3)

During the year 2.2 million own shares (2017: 1.8 million own shares) were purchased and held for hedging share-based awards. 2.8 million 
shares (2017: 2.4 million shares) awarded to employees vested in the period and were transferred out of own shares.

The total number of shares in the Company held within the Group’s employee benefit trusts comprise:

Number of  
vested  
shares  
Millions

2018

Number of 
unvested  
shares  
Millions

2.7

–

2.7

6.3

0.1

6.4

Vested  
shares
£m

2018

Unvested  
shares
£m

162.8

153.8

1.1

1.4

57.1

65.0

0.1

0.6

57.2

65.6

Total  
Millions

9.0

0.1

9.1

 Total
£m

219.9

218.8

1.2

2.0

Number of 
vested  
shares  
Millions

2.0

0.2

2.2

2017

Number of 
unvested  
shares  
Millions

6.9

0.1

7.0

Vested  
shares
£m

2017

Unvested  
shares
£m

160.6

243.2

1.7

2.4

32.4

67.2

2.6

5.6

35.0

72.8

163.9

155.2

221.1

220.8

162.3

245.6

197.3

318.4

Total  
Millions

8.9

0.3

9.2

 Total
£m

193.0

310.4

4.3

8.0

Ordinary shares

Non-voting ordinary shares

Ordinary shares:

Cost

Fair value

Non-voting ordinary shares:

Cost

Fair value

Total:

Cost

Fair value

134

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 201822. Reconciliation of net cash from operating activities

This note should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated cash flow statement. It provides a reconciliation to show how profit before 
tax, which is based on accounting rules, translates to cash flows.

Profit before tax

Adjustments for income statement non-cash movements:

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment and amortisation of intangible assets

Net loss/(gain) on financial instruments

Share-based payments

Net (release)/charge for provisions

Other non-cash movements

Adjustments for which the cash effects are investing activities:

Net finance income

Share of profit of associates and joint ventures

Adjustments for statement of financial position movements:

Decrease/(increase) in loans and advances within Wealth Management

Increase in trade and other receivables

(Decrease)/increase in deposits and client accounts within Wealth Management

Increase in trade and other payables, other financial liabilities and provisions

Adjustments for Life Company movements:

Net decrease/(increase) in financial assets backing unit-linked liabilities

Net (decrease)/increase in unit-linked liabilities

Tax paid

Net cash from operating activities

2018
£m

649.9

80.8

52.3

63.9

(0.6)

(20.3)

176.1

(8.4)

(19.1)

(27.5)

406.2

(40.3)

(545.2)

12.0

(167.3)

2017
£m

760.2

63.4

(22.1)

60.5

12.6

(9.6)

104.8

(9.7)

(21.7)

(31.4)

(236.4)

(43.2)

38.9

35.2

(205.5)

2,756.2

(953.0)

(2,730.5)

1,058.8

25.7

105.8

(143.0)

(148.8)

513.9

585.1

135

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

23. Commitments

Commitments represent amounts the Group has contractually committed to pay to third parties but do not yet represent a liability. 
Commitments at the year end do not impact on the Group’s financial results for the year.

The Group leases office space and equipment. Lease agreements can commit the Group to significant future expenditure and the table 
below discloses the Group’s commitments to make such payments. Such commitments are not recorded on the Group’s statement of 
financial position in advance of the period to which they relate.

The Group sublets a small number of its owned and leased properties where such properties, or parts of such properties, are not required 
for use by the Group. The table below discloses the commitments sub-lessees have made in respect of such arrangements. These 
commitments are not recorded on the statement of financial position in advance of the period to which they relate. However, they may be 
used to determine the onerous lease provision if the rental income does not equal or exceed the Group’s own rental obligation (see note 17). 

Operating leases as lessee

Undrawn loan facilities

Investment call commitments

Commitments for purchase of property, plant and equipment

Commitments under IT service agreements

Total commitments

Operating leases receivable as lessor

Net commitments payable

Operating leases as lessee

Undrawn loan facilities

Investment call commitments

Commitments for purchase of property, plant and equipment

Commitments under IT service agreements

Total commitments

Operating leases receivable as lessor

Net commitments payable

2018

No later than  
1 year
£m

Later than 1 year 
and no later  
than 5 years
£m

 Later than  
5 years
£m

30.0

14.6

29.4

18.0

25.4

160.5

309.6

18.0

13.8

0.3

50.5

–

1.1

–

–

 Total
£m

500.1

32.6

44.3

18.3

75.9

117.4

243.1

310.7

671.2

(1.5)

115.9

(3.6)

239.5

2017

(0.2)

310.5

(5.3)

665.9

No later than  
1 year
£m

Later than 1 year  
and no later  
than 5 years
£m

 Later than  
5 years
£m

37.9

5.4

23.2

48.6

22.7

137.8

(2.1)

135.7

127.5

7.9

12.7

–

62.0

210.1

(4.5)

205.6

 Total
£m

502.8

40.7

37.2

48.6

91.7

337.4

27.4

1.3

–

7.0

373.1

721.0

(0.6)

372.5

(7.2)

713.8

Leases in respect of office properties are negotiated for a weighted average term of 14.0 years (2017: 14.3 years) and rentals are fixed for 
a weighted average term of 5.1 years (2017: 5.8 years). Leases in respect of office equipment are negotiated for a weighted average term 
of 1.6 years (2017: 1.6 years) and rentals are fixed for a weighted average term of 1.6 years (2017: 1.6 years).

Office property sub-leases have a weighted average term of 3.6 years (2017: 4.2 years) and rentals are fixed for a weighted average term 
of 3.6 years (2017: 4.2 years). Lease payments recognised as an expense during the year were £37.3 million (2017: £43.6 million).

136

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 201824. Retirement benefit obligations

The Group has two principle types of pension benefit for employees: defined benefit (DB) where the Group has an obligation to provide 
participating employees with pension payments that represent a specified percentage of their final salary for each year of service, and 
defined contribution (DC), where the Group’s contribution to an employee’s pension is measured as, and limited to, a specified percentage  
of salary.

Accounting for DB schemes requires an assessment of the likely quantum of future pension payments to be made. If ring-fenced assets are 
held specifically to meet this cost, the scheme is funded, and if not, it is unfunded. The Group periodically reviews its funded DB schemes 
using actuarial specialists to assess whether it is on course to meet the expected pension payments that current and former employees are 
or will be entitled to. In the case of a projected shortfall, a plan must be formulated to reverse the deficit.

The income statement charge or credit represents the sum of pension entitlements earned by employees in the period, plus a notional net 
interest charge (if the scheme is in deficit) or income (if it is in surplus) based on the market yields on high quality corporate bonds. 
Experience differences, principally the difference between actual investment returns and the notional interest amount, as well as actuarial 
changes in estimating the present value of future liabilities, are recorded in other comprehensive income.

Assets or liabilities recognised in the statement of financial position represent the differences between the fair value of plan assets (if any) 
and the actuarially-determined estimates of the present value of future liabilities. The Group closed its largest DB scheme to future accrual 
on 30 April 2011, although it still operates some small unfunded schemes overseas. This means that no future service will contribute to the 
closed scheme member benefits but those members continue to have the benefits determined by the Scheme rules as at 30 April 2011.

The Group’s exposure to funding DC pension schemes is limited to the contributions it has agreed to make. These contributions generally 
stop when employment ceases. The income statement charge represents the contributions the Group has agreed to make into employees’ 
pension schemes in that period.

The disclosures within this note are provided mainly in respect of the principal DB scheme, which is the DB section of the funded Schroders 
Retirement Benefits Scheme (the Scheme).

The income statement charge for retirement benefit costs is as follows:

Pension costs – defined contribution plans

Pension credit – defined benefit plans

Other post-employment benefits

2018
£m

47.9

(2.5)

0.2

45.6

2017
£m

42.8

(1.5)

0.2

41.5

(i) Profile of the Scheme
The Scheme is administered by a Trustee company, Schroder Pension Trustee Limited. The board of the Trustee company comprises an 
independent chairman, three directors appointed by the employer and two directors elected by the Scheme members. The Trustee is required 
by law to act in the interest of all relevant beneficiaries and is responsible for setting the investment strategy and for the day-to-day 
administration of the benefits. The Trustee’s investment committee comprises four of the Trustee directors and two representatives of the 
Group. This committee, which reports to the Trustee board, is responsible for making investment strategy recommendations to the board 
of the Trustee and for monitoring the performance of the investment manager.

Under the Scheme, employees are entitled to annual pensions on retirement based on a specified percentage of their final pensionable salary 
or, in the case of active members at 30 April 2011 (the date the DB section of the Scheme closed for future accrual), actual pensionable salaries 
at that date, for each year of service. These benefits are adjusted for the effects of inflation, subject to a cap of 2.5% for pensions accrued after 
12 August 2007 and 5.0% for pensions accrued before that date.

As at 31 December 2018, there were no active members in the DB section (2017: nil) and 1,973 active members in the DC section (2017: 1,828). 
The weighted average duration of the Scheme’s DB obligation is 18 years (2017: 21 years).

Membership details of the DB section of the Scheme as at 31 December are as follows:

Number of deferred members

2018

1,327

2017

1,418

Total deferred pensions (at date of leaving Scheme)

£10.0m per annum

£10.9m per annum

Average age (deferred)

Number of pensioners

Average age (pensioners)

Total pensions in payment

52

849

70

52

829

69

£19.6m per annum

£18.9m per annum

(ii) Funding requirements
The last completed triennial valuation of the Scheme was carried out as at 31 December 2017. The funding level at that date was 115% on the 
technical provisions basis and no contribution to the Scheme was required (2017: nil). The next triennial valuation is due as at 31 December 2020 
and will be performed in 2021.

137

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

24. Retirement benefit obligations continued
(iii) Risks of the Scheme
The Company and the Trustee have agreed a long-term strategy for reducing investment risk as and when appropriate. This includes an 
asset-liability matching policy that aims to reduce the volatility of the funding level of the Scheme by investing in assets that perform in line with 
the liabilities of the Scheme.

The most significant risks that the Scheme exposes the Group to are:

Asset volatility
The liabilities are calculated using a discount rate set with reference to corporate bond yields; if assets underperform this yield, this will reduce 
the surplus or may create a deficit. The Group manages this risk by holding 51.6% (2017: 50.7%) of Scheme assets in an LDI portfolio and the 
remainder in growth assets such as the Schroder Life Diversified Growth Fund and a Strategic Beta portfolio. This asset mix is designed to 
provide returns that match or exceed the unwinding of the discount rate in the long term, but that can create volatility and risk in the short term. 
The allocation to growth assets is monitored to ensure it remains appropriate given the Scheme’s long-term objectives.

Credit risk
The assets of the Scheme include LDI and other fixed income instruments that expose the Group to credit risk. A significant amount of this 
exposure is to the UK Government as a result of holding gilts and bonds guaranteed by the UK Government. Other instruments held include 
derivatives, which are collateralised daily to cover unrealised gains or losses. The minimum rating for any derivatives counterparty is BBB.

Interest rate risk
A decrease in corporate bond yields will increase the value placed on the Scheme’s liabilities for accounting purposes, although this should be 
partially offset by an increase in the value of the Scheme’s LDI portfolio, which comprises gilts and other LDI instruments. The LDI portfolio has 
been designed to mitigate interest rate exposures measured on a funding rather than an accounting basis. One of the principal differences 
between these bases is that the liability under the funding basis is calculated using a discount rate set with reference to gilt yields; the latter uses 
corporate bond yields. As a result, the LDI portfolio hedges against interest rate risk by purchasing instruments that seek to replicate 
movements in gilt yields rather than corporate bond yields. Movements in the different types of instrument are not exactly correlated, and it is 
therefore likely that a tracking error can arise when assessing whether the LDI portfolio has provided an effective hedge against interest rate risk 
on an accounting basis. At 31 December 2018, the LDI portfolio was designed to mitigate 77% (2017: 73%) of the Scheme’s exposure to changes 
in gilt yields.

Inflation risk
A significant proportion of the Scheme’s benefit obligations are linked to inflation, and higher inflation will lead to higher liabilities. However, 
in most cases, caps on the level of inflationary increases are in place. The majority of the growth assets are either unaffected by or not closely 
correlated with inflation, which means that an increase in inflation will also decrease any Scheme surplus. The LDI portfolio includes instruments 
such as index-linked gilts to provide protection against inflation risk. At 31 December 2018, the LDI portfolio was designed to mitigate 77% (2017: 
73%) of the Scheme’s exposure to inflation risk.

Life expectancy
The majority of the Scheme’s obligations are to provide benefits for the life of the member, so increases in life expectancy will result in an 
increase in the liability.

(iv) Reporting at 31 December
The principal financial assumptions used for the Scheme are:

Discount rate

RPI inflation rate

CPI inflation rate

Future pension increases (for benefits earned before 13 August 2007)

Future pension increases (for benefits earned after 13 August 2007)

Average number of years a current pensioner is expected to live beyond age 60:

Men

Women

Average number of years future pensioners currently aged 45 are expected to live beyond age 60:

Men

Women

2018
%

2.9

3.3

2.2

3.2

2.2

2017
%

2.6

3.3

2.2

3.1

2.2

Years

Years

28

29

28

30

Years

Years

29

30

29

31

Net interest income is determined by applying the discount rate to the opening net surplus in the Scheme. The Group determines the 
appropriate discount rate at the end of each year. This is the interest rate that is used to determine the present value of estimated future cash 
outflows expected to be required to settle the pension obligations. In determining the appropriate discount rate, the Group considers the 
interest rates of high quality, long dated corporate bonds that are denominated in the currency in which the benefits will be paid.

138

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 201824. Retirement benefit obligations continued

Estimates and judgements
The Group estimates the carrying value of the Scheme by applying judgement to determine the assumptions as set out on page 138 to 
determine the valuation of the pension obligation using member data and applying the Scheme rules. The Scheme assets are mainly quoted 
in an active market. The sensitivity to those assumptions is set out below. The most significant judgemental assumption relates to mortality 
rates which are inherently uncertain. The Group’s mortality assumptions are based on standard mortality tables with Continuous Mortality 
Investigation core projection factors and a long-term rate of mortality improvement of 1.0% (2017: 1.0%) per annum.

Mortality tables for male pensioners are scaled back by 5% and female pensioners are scaled back by 10% to reflect the history of longer life 
expectancy of the Group’s employees. The Group reviews its assumptions annually in conjunction with its independent actuaries and 
considers this adjustment appropriate given the geographic and demographic profile of Scheme members. Other assumptions for pension 
obligations are based in part on current market conditions.

The financial impact of the Scheme on the Group has been determined by independent qualified actuaries, Aon Hewitt Limited, and is based on 
an assessment of the Scheme as at 31 December 2018.

The amounts recognised in the income statement are:

Interest income on Scheme assets

Interest cost on Scheme liabilities

Net interest income recognised in the income statement in respect of the Scheme

Income statement charge in respect of other defined benefit schemes

Total defined benefit schemes income statement credit

The amounts recognised in the statement of comprehensive income are:

Loss/(return) on Scheme assets in excess of that recognised in interest income

Actuarial gains due to change in demographic assumptions

Actuarial (gains)/losses due to change in financial assumptions

Actuarial losses due to experience

Total other comprehensive loss in respect of the Scheme

Other comprehensive loss in respect of other defined benefit schemes

Total other comprehensive loss in respect of defined benefit schemes

The sensitivity of the Scheme pension liabilities to changes in assumptions are:

2018
£m

(26.1)

21.9

(4.2)

1.7

(2.5)

2018
£m

56.8

(18.3)

(36.3)

9.3

11.5

0.1

11.6

2017
£m

(28.0)

24.8

(3.2)

1.7

(1.5)

2017
£m

(20.6)

(27.2)

1.7

4.6

(41.5)

(0.8)

(42.3)

Assumption

Discount rate

Discount rate

Assumption change

Increase by 0.5% per annum

Decrease by 0.5% per annum

Expected rate of pension increases

Increase by 0.5% per annum

Expected rate of pension increases

Decrease by 0.5% per annum

Life expectancy

Life expectancy

Increase by one year

Reduce by one year

2018

2017

Estimated 
(increase)/
reduction in 
pension 
liabilities
£m

Estimated 
(increase)/
reduction in 
pension 
liabilities
%

Estimated 
(increase)/
reduction in 
pension 
liabilities
£m

Estimated 
(increase)/
reduction in 
pension 
liabilities
%

65.8

(72.1)

(56.3)

52.6

(32.3)

33.5

8.3

(9.1)

(7.1)

6.6

(4.1)

4.2

93.6

(102.1)

(79.7)

74.9

(33.6)

33.4

10.8

(11.8)

(9.2)

8.6

(3.9)

3.9

139

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

24. Retirement benefit obligations continued

Movements in respect of the assets and liabilities of the Scheme are:

At 1 January

Interest on assets

Remeasurement of assets

Benefits paid

Fair value of plan assets

At 1 January

Interest cost

Actuarial gains due to change in demographic assumptions

Actuarial gains/(losses) due to change in financial assumptions

Actuarial losses due to experience

Benefits paid

Present value of funded obligations

Net assets

2018
£m

2017
£m

1,029.2

1,093.2

26.1

(56.8)

(47.3)

28.0

20.6

(112.6)

951.2

1,029.2

(866.3)

(21.9)

18.3

36.3

(9.3)

47.3

(795.6)

(975.0)

(24.8)

27.2

(1.7)

(4.6)

112.6

(866.3)

155.6

162.9

The Group has not materially changed the basis of any of the principal financial assumptions underlying the calculation of the Scheme’s 
net financial position during 2018, although such assumptions have been amended where applicable to reflect current market conditions 
and expectations.

Administration expenses and the levy payable to the Pension Protection Fund are met directly by the Group.

The fair value of the Scheme’s plan assets at the year end date are:

Liability-driven investments

Bonds (excluding those held as part of the liability-driven investment portfolio)

Portfolio funds

Exchange-traded futures and over-the-counter derivatives

Cash

2018

2017

Of which not 
quoted in an 
active market 
£m

12.9

–

7.8

(4.2)

–

16.5

Value
£m

491.3

78.8

348.0

(5.7)

38.8

951.2

Of which not 
quoted in an 
active market
£m

1.6

–

10.9

1.5

–

14.0

 Value
£m

521.8

99.1

369.1

2.1

37.1

1,029.2

140

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 201825. Share-based payments

Share-based payments are remuneration payments to selected employees that take the form of an award of shares in Schroders plc. 
Employees are generally not able to exercise such awards in full until three years after the award has been made, although conditions vary 
between different types of award. The accounting for share-based awards settled by transferring shares to the employees (equity-settled) 
differs from the accounting for similar awards settled in cash (cash-settled). The charge for equity-settled share-based payments is 
determined based on the fair value of the award on the grant date or, in the case of grandfathered awards arising on business 
combinations, the fair value of the share awards at the acquisition date. Such awards can include share options or share awards that may or 
may not have performance criteria. The initial fair value of the award takes into account the current value of shares expected to be issued 
(i.e. estimates of the likely levels of forfeiture and achievement of performance criteria), the contribution, if required, by the employee and 
the time value of money. This initial fair value is charged to the income statement reflecting benefits received from employment, where 
relevant, in the performance period and over the vesting period. The income statement charge is offset by a credit to the statement of 
changes in equity, where the award is expected to be settled through the issue of shares. Such awards constituted 7.6% (2017: 7.7%) of 
salaries, wages and other remuneration (see note 4).

The Group may make share-based payments to employees through awards over or linked to the value of ordinary and non-voting ordinary 
shares and by the grant of market value share options over ordinary or non-voting ordinary shares. These arrangements involve a maximum 
term of 10 years.

It is the Group’s practice to hedge all awards to eliminate the impact of changes in the market value of shares between the grant date and 
the exercise date.

Awards that lapse or are forfeited during the vesting period result in a credit to the income statement (reversing the previous charge) in the 
year in which they lapse or are forfeited.

The Group recognised total expenses of £63.8 million (2017: £62.0 million) arising from share-based payment transactions during the year, 
of which £63.9 million (2017: £60.5 million) were equity-settled share-based payment transactions. In 2018 there were total exceptional costs 
of £10.6 million included within equity-settled share-based payments (2017: nil).

The Group has the following share-based payment arrangements (further details of the current schemes may be found in the 
Remuneration report):

(a) 2000 Equity Compensation Plan and 2011 Equity Compensation Plan

Awards over ordinary and non-voting ordinary shares made under the Group’s Equity Compensation Plans are charged at fair value as 
‘Operating expenses’ in the income statement. There are no performance conditions attached to the awards. For the 2000 Equity 
Compensation Plan the fair value of an award is calculated using the market value of the shares at the date of grant, discounted for the 
dividends forgone over the average holding period of the award. For the 2011 Equity Compensation Plan the fair value of an award is 
calculated using the market value of the shares on the date of grant. The fair value charges, adjusted to reflect actual levels of vesting, are 
spread over the performance period and the three-year vesting period of the awards. The award is structured as a nil-cost option.

Rights outstanding at 1 January

Granted

Forfeited

Exercised

Rights outstanding at 31 December

Vested

Unvested

Weighted average fair value of shares granted (£)

Weighted average share price at dates of exercise (£)

The weighted average exercise price per share is nil.

2018

2017

Number of 
ordinary
shares
Millions

Number of 
non-voting 
ordinary shares 
Millions

Number of 
ordinary
shares
Millions

Number of 
non-voting 
ordinary shares 
Millions

6.5

0.9

(0.1)

(1.8)

5.5

2.2

3.3

33.22

33.08

0.3

–

–

(0.2)

0.1

–

0.1

–

23.72

6.9

1.7

(0.1)

(2.0)

6.5

1.7

4.8

0.3

–

–

–

0.3

0.2

0.1

30.97

32.05

22.54

22.91

A charge of £25.6 million (2017: £35.8 million) was recognised during the financial year.

The table below shows the expected charges for awards issued under the Equity Compensation Plan to be expensed in future years:

2019

2020

2021

£m

8.2

2.2

0.1

10.5

141

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

25. Share-based payments continued
(b) Deferred Award Plan

Awards over ordinary shares made under the Group’s Deferred Award Plan are charged at fair value as ‘Operating expenses’ in the income 
statement. There are no performance conditions attached to the awards. Fair value is determined at the date of grant and is equal to the 
market value of the shares at that time. The fair value charges, adjusted to reflect actual levels of vesting, are spread over the performance 
period and the vesting periods of the awards. Typically, one third of an award will vest and become exercisable on each of the first, second 
and third anniversaries of the grant date. The award is structured as a nil-cost option.

2018  
Number of 
ordinary
shares
Millions

2017
Number of
ordinary
shares
Millions

Rights outstanding at 1 January

Granted

Forfeited

Rights outstanding at 31 December – unvested

Weighted average fair value of shares granted (£)

–

1.3

(0.1)

1.2

33.41

A charge of £29.6 million (2017: £14.2 million) was recognised during the financial year. 

The table below shows the expected charges for awards issued under the Deferred Award Plan to be expensed in future years:

2019

2020

(c) Equity Incentive Plan

–

–

–

–

–

£m

6.7

2.9

9.6

Awards over ordinary shares made under the Group’s Equity Incentive Plan are charged at fair value as ‘Operating expenses’ to the income 
statement, over a five-year vesting period. Fair value is determined at the date of grant and is equal to the market value of the shares at that 
time. The award is structured as a nil-cost option.

2018  
Number of 
ordinary
shares
Millions

2017
Number of
ordinary
shares
Millions

2.1

0.2

(0.1)

(0.2)

2.0

0.5

1.5

2.1

0.2

(0.1)

(0.1)

2.1

0.2

1.9

26.81

25.06

34.52

33.44

Rights outstanding at 1 January

Granted

Forfeited

Exercised

Rights outstanding at 31 December

Vested

Unvested

Weighted average fair value of shares granted (£)

Weighted average share price at dates of exercise (£)

The weighted average exercise price per share is nil.

A charge of £7.4 million (2017: £8.5 million) was recognised during the financial year.

142

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 201825. Share-based payments continued
(c) Equity Incentive Plan continued

The table below shows the expected charges for awards issued under the Equity Incentive Plan to be expensed in future years:

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

(d) Long Term Incentive Plan

£m

6.9

4.4

2.9

1.5

0.7

16.4

Awards over ordinary and non-voting ordinary shares made under the Group’s Long Term Incentive Plan are charged at fair value to the 
income statement over a four-year vesting period. Fair value is calculated using the market value of the shares at the grant date, discounted 
for dividends forgone over the vesting period of the award and adjusted based on an estimate at the year end date of the extent to which 
the performance conditions are expected to be met. The award is structured as a nil-cost option.

2018

2017

Number of 
ordinary  
shares  
Millions

Number of 
non-voting  
ordinary shares  
Millions

Number of 
ordinary  
shares  
Millions

Number of 
non-voting 
ordinary shares  
Millions

Rights outstanding at 1 January

Granted

Forfeited

Exercised

Rights outstanding at 31 December – unvested

Weighted average fair value of shares granted (£)

Weighted average share price at dates of exercise (£)

The weighted average exercise price per share is nil.

0.2

–

(0.1)

–

0.1

29.31

34.25

0.1

–

–

–

0.1

–

23.72

0.4

–

(0.1)

(0.1)

0.2

27.26

31.11

A credit of £0.4 million (2017: £0.4 million charge) was recognised during the financial year.

The table below shows the expected charges for awards issued under the Long Term Incentive Plan to be expensed in future years:

2019

2020

2021

(e) Share Incentive Plan

The employee monthly share purchase plan is open to UK permanent employees and provides free shares from the Group to match the 
employee purchase up to a maximum of £100 per month. The shares vest after one year.

Pursuant to this plan, the Group purchased 61,046 ordinary shares in 2018 (2017: 52,796) at a weighted average share price of £30.84 
(2017: £32.51). A charge of £1.7 million (2017: £1.6 million) was recognised during the financial year.

0.1

–

–

–

0.1

–

–

£m

0.3

0.2

0.1

0.6

143

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

25. Share-based payments continued
(f) Cash-settled share-based awards

Certain employees have been awarded cash-settled equivalents to these share-based awards. The fair value of these awards is determined 
using the same methods and models used to value the equivalent equity-settled awards. The fair value of the liability is remeasured at each 
balance sheet date and at settlement date.

At 31 December 2018, the total carrying value amount of liabilities arising from cash-settled share-based awards was £2.6 million  
(2017: £3.1 million). The total intrinsic value at 31 December 2018 of liabilities for which the employee’s right to cash or other assets had vested 
by that date was £0.6 million (2017: £0.7 million). 

A credit of £0.1 million (2017: £1.5 million charge) was recognised during the financial year. This credit has arisen as the liability was remeasured 
at the balance sheet date at a share price of £24.43 (31 December 2017: £35.16).

26. Related party transactions

Transactions between the Group and parties related to the Group are required to be disclosed to the extent that they are necessary for an 
understanding of the potential effect of the relationship on the financial statements. Other disclosures, such as key management personnel 
compensation, are also required.

The Group is not deemed to be controlled or jointly controlled by a party directly or through intermediaries under accounting standards.

As a result the related parties of the Group are members of the Group, including associates and joint ventures, key management personnel, 
close family members of key management personnel and any entity controlled by those parties.

Cash transactions with associates or joint ventures are reported in the Consolidated cash flow statement and in note 10. 

£55.7 million (2017: £66.9 million) was held in customer accounts in respect of amounts payable to key management personnel or their 
related parties. 

Included within loans and advances to clients are amounts owed from related parties of £4.3 million (2017: nil). All related party loans and 
advances were at normal commercial rates.

Some of the plan assets of the Schroders Retirement Benefit Scheme are invested within Life funds controlled by the Group. At 31 December 
2018, the fair value of these assets was £219.5 million (2017: £244.4 million).

Peter Harrison has an interest in 100,252 shares (2017: 100,252) in an associate of the Group, RWC Partners Limited, representing 5.4% 
(2017: 5.4%) of its issued share capital.

Transactions between the Group and its related parties were made at market rates. Any amounts outstanding are unsecured and will be settled 
in cash. No guarantees have been given or received. 

Key management personnel compensation
Key management personnel are defined as members of the Board or the Group Management Committee. The remuneration of key 
management personnel during the year was as follows:

Type of remuneration

Typical composition of this type of benefit

Short-term employee benefits

Salary and upfront bonus

Share-based payments

Other long-term benefits

Termination benefits

Deferred share awards

Deferred cash awards

Termination benefits

Post-employment benefits

Pension plans

2018
£m

21.6

13.0

14.1

–

0.1

48.8

2017
£m

21.8

10.7

11.3

0.5

0.1

44.4

The remuneration of key management personnel is based on individual performance and market rates. The remuneration policy (which applies 
to Directors and management) is described in more detail at schroders.com/directors-remuneration-policy.

144

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 201827. Interests in structured entities

Structured entities are those entities that have been designed so that voting or similar rights are not the dominant factor in deciding who 
has control, such as when any voting rights relate to administrative tasks only, or when the relevant activities are directed by means of 
contractual arrangements. The Group’s interests in consolidated and unconsolidated structured entities are described below.

The Group has interests in structured entities as a result of contractual arrangements arising from its principal activity, the management of 
assets on behalf of its clients. AUM, excluding deposits by Wealth Management clients and some segregated client portfolios held within the 
Institutional channel of the Group’s Asset Management business, are managed within structured entities. These structured entities typically 
consist of investment vehicles such as Open Ended Investment Companies, Authorised Unit Trusts, Limited Partnerships and Sociétés 
d’Investissement à Capital Variable, which entitle investors to a percentage of the vehicle’s net asset value. The vehicles are financed by the 
purchase of units or shares by investors. The Group also has interests in structured entities through proprietary investments. These are 
mainly into vehicles that help facilitate the Group’s stated aim of generating a return on investment capital and when it deploys seed and 
co-investment capital in developing new investment strategies. The Group does not have any contractual relationships with, or interests in, 
structured entities related to AUA. Additionally, the Group holds interests in structured entities for liquidity management purposes, for 
example via investments in money market funds.

The Group does not guarantee returns on the investments it manages or commit to financially support its structured entities. A small 
proportion of the Group’s AUM, principally real estate funds, are permitted to raise finance through loans from banks and other financial 
institutions. Where external finance is raised, the Group does not provide a guarantee for the repayment of any borrowings.

The business activity of all structured entities in which the Group has an interest, is the management of assets in order to generate 
investment returns for investors from capital appreciation and/or investment income. The Group earns a management fee from its 
structured entities, normally based on a percentage of the entity’s net asset value, committed capital value or gross asset value and, where 
contractually agreed, a performance fee or carried interest, based on outperformance against predetermined benchmarks. In addition, 
where the Group owns a proportion of the structured entity it is entitled to receive investment returns.

(a) Interests arising from managing assets
The Group’s interests in structured entities arising as a result of contractual relationships from its principal activity, the management of assets on 
behalf of its clients, are reflected in the Group’s AUM.

Asset Management

Wealth Management

Asset Management

Wealth Management

2018

AUM outside of  
structured  
entities
£bn

AUM within 
consolidated  
structured  
entities
£bn

AUM within  
unconsolidated  
structured  
entities
£bn

167.8

37.6

205.4

186.3

6.1

192.4

9.4

–

9.4

2017

AUM outside of  
structured  
entities
£bn

AUM within 
consolidated  
structured  
entities
£bn

AUM within  
unconsolidated  
structured  
entities
£bn

180.4

39.7

220.1

12.3

–

12.3

197.1

6.2

203.3

Total
£bn

363.5

43.7

407.2

Total
£bn

389.8

45.9

435.7

Certain AUM is managed in pooled vehicles that are not considered to be structured entities. Within Asset Management, this occurs either 
because it is formed of segregated investment portfolios for Institutional clients comprising directly-held investments in individual financial 
instruments, or because the voting structures of the vehicles themselves allow the investment manager to be removed without cause. Within 
Wealth Management, AUM is not considered to be within structured entities due to contractual relationships existing with clients rather than 
structured entities, for example discretionary and advisory asset management and banking services. In addition, Wealth Management AUM in 
the form of loans and advances to customers is conducted outside of structured entities.

Certain structured entities are deemed to be controlled by the Group and are accounted for as subsidiaries and consolidated in accordance with 
IFRS 10. AUM within consolidated structured entities represents the net assets of the beneficial interest in the consolidated structured entity 
owned by third parties.

AUM within unconsolidated structured entities constitutes the remaining balance, represented principally by the net asset value of pooled 
vehicles managed for Intermediary clients, as well as some assets invested in pooled vehicles on behalf of Institutional and Wealth Management 
clients. The Group’s beneficial interest in structured entities is not included within AUM and is described separately overleaf.

The Group has no direct exposure to losses in relation to the AUM reported above, as the investment risk is borne by clients. The main risk the 
Group faces from its interest in AUM managed on behalf of clients is the loss of fee income as a result of the withdrawal of funds by clients. 
Outflows from funds are dependent on market sentiment, asset performance and investor considerations.

145

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

27. Interests in structured entities continued
(a) Interests arising from managing assets

Fee income includes £1,445.6 million (2017: £1,367.6 million) of fees from structured entities managed by the Group. The table below shows the 
carrying value of the Group’s interests in structured entities as a result of its management of assets, where income is accrued over the period for 
which assets are managed before being invoiced. The carrying value represents the Group’s maximum exposure to loss from these interests.

Fee debtors1

Accrued income1

Total exposure due to asset management activities

1.  Recognised in trade and other receivables.

2018
£m

16.7

213.1

229.8

2017
£m

16.5

192.5

209.0

(b) Interest arising from the Group’s investment in unconsolidated structured entities
The table below shows the carrying values of the Group’s proprietary investments in unconsolidated structured entities, which resulted in a net 
loss on financial instruments and other income of £3.8 million (2017: gain of £9.4 million). The carrying values represent the Group’s maximum 
exposure to loss from these interests.

Cash and cash equivalents

Financial assets

Total exposure due to the Group’s investments

2018
£m

61.9

575.4

637.3

2017
£m

103.0

588.1

691.1

The Group’s proprietary investments include interests in unconsolidated structured entities in the form of cash and cash equivalents and 
financial assets. Cash and cash equivalents comprise investments in money market funds, of which £3.0 million (2017: £26.5 million) is managed 
by the Group. Financial assets comprise investments in pooled vehicles and legacy private equity investments and include seed and 
co-investment capital and hedges of deferred cash awards. Of the financial assets, £574.2 million (2017: £583.6 million) is invested in funds 
managed by the Group. The Group has no interest apart from its role as investor in those funds for which it does not act as manager. The main 
risk the Group faces from its interests in unconsolidated structured entities arising from proprietary investments is that the investments will 
decrease in value. Note 19 includes further information on the Group’s exposure to market risk arising from proprietary investments.

Following the Group’s acquisition of Adveq Holding AG in 2017, the Group has a contractual obligation to provide 1% (2017: 1%) of committed 
capital to certain structured entities of the acquired business. See note 23 for the Group’s investment call commitments at 31 December 2018.

The Group’s statement of financial position also includes the Life Company assets of £11,255.9 million (2017: £13,986.4 million), which are 
included in the AUM information presented on page 24. The exposure to the risks and rewards associated with these assets is borne by 
unit-linked policyholders, or, where Life Company funds are consolidated, third-party investors in those funds.

Financial support for consolidated structured entities where there is no contractual obligation to do so
The Group supports some of its funds through the injection of seed capital in order to enable the funds to establish a track record before they 
are more widely marketed. During the year, the Group purchased units at a cost of £173.0 million (2017: £189.4 million) to provide seed capital 
to investment funds managed by the Group, of which £112.6 million (2017: £162.2 million) resulted in the consolidation of those funds, and 
£60.4 million (2017: £27.2 million) did not.

146

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 201828. Business combinations

The Group applies the acquisition method to account for business combinations. The consideration for the acquisition of a subsidiary is the 
fair values of the assets transferred, the liabilities incurred to the former owners of the acquiree and any equity interests issued by the 
Group. The consideration includes the fair value of any asset or liability resulting from contingent or deferred consideration arrangements. 
Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities and contingent liabilities assumed in a business combination are measured initially at their fair 
values at the acquisition date. The Group recognises any non-controlling interest (NCI) in the acquiree on an acquisition-by-acquisition basis, 
either at fair value or at the NCI proportionate share of the recognised amounts of the acquiree’s identifiable net assets.

The Group completed six business combinations during the year.

The most significant of these transactions completed on 2 May 2018 when the Group acquired 100% of the issued share capital of Algonquin 
Management Partners S.A. (Algonquin), a specialist pan-European hotels investments and management business, for a total consideration of 
£118.5 million. The acquisition contributed £1.6 billion of Asset Management AUM and strengthens the Group’s real estate capabilities.

On 28 February 2018, the Group increased its interest in NEOS Finance Group B.V. (NEOS) from 25% to 49% of issued share capital for a cash 
consideration of £4.7 million which, combined with the fair value of the Group’s holding, resulted in the fair value consideration of £9.5 million. 
NEOS was previously held as an associate but the Group has determined that it is now a subsidiary.

The Group completed four other business combinations during the year for a combined consideration of £5.1 million.

Net assets acquired
The fair values of the net assets acquired in the transactions together with the goodwill and intangible assets arising are as follows:

Net assets acquired:

Cash

Financial assets

Trade and other receivables

Other assets

Trade and other payables

Other liabilities

Tangible net assets

Goodwill

Intangible assets arising on acquisition

Deferred tax arising on acquisition

Non-controlling interest

Total

Satisfied by:

Cash

Contingent consideration1

Deferred consideration

Fair value of Group’s pre-existing 25% interest

Total

Algonquin
£m

1.4

23.6

19.9

0.2

(4.3)

–

40.8

61.4

20.1

(3.8)

–

118.5

Algonquin
£m

94.7

23.8

–

–

118.5

NEOS
£m

1.8

–

–

1.5

(0.4)

(2.6)

0.3

9.4

–

–

(0.2)

9.5

NEOS
£m

4.7

–

–

4.8

9.5

Other
£m

0.7

–

–

1.4

–

 (6.8)

(4.7)

–

4.8

–

5.0

5.1

Other
£m

3.6

–

1.5

–

5.1

Total
£m

3.9

23.6

19.9

3.1

(4.7)

(9.4)

36.4

70.8

24.9

(3.8)

4.8

133.1

Total
£m

103.0

23.8

1.5

4.8

133.1

1.  Contingent consideration of £23.8 million is payable under the terms of the share purchase agreement for Algonquin. This amount is contingent upon the receipt of 
future revenues over a three year period post acquisition. The estimated range of amounts that will ultimately be payable is between £14.4 million and £27.8 million.

147

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

28. Business combinations continued
Algonquin
Goodwill arising on the acquisition of Algonquin represents the value of the acquired business arising from:

 – A broader platform for business growth;

 – Talented management and employees; and

 – Opportunities for synergies from combining certain activities.

Goodwill arising on the acquisition of Algonquin will not be deductible for tax purposes.

In the period between the acquisition date on 2 May 2018 and 31 December 2018, Algonquin contributed £8.3 million to the Group’s net income. 
The contribution to profit before tax and exceptional items was £4.4 million and exceptional costs of £2.1 million were incurred mainly in respect 
of amortisation of the acquired intangible assets. Additionally, acquisition costs of £3.1 million were recorded within ‘Operating expenses’ and 
classified as exceptional in the Consolidated income statement.

If the acquisition had been completed on 1 January 2018, the Group’s pre-exceptional net income for the year would have been £2,128.1 million, 
and the profit before tax and exceptional items for the year on the same basis would have been £763.4 million.

NEOS
The goodwill arising on the acquisition is attributable to the value of the additional investment capabilities acquired. The £0.2 million of 
non-controlling interest recognised at the acquisition date was determined as a proportion of the identifiable net assets at the date of 
acquisition attributable to third parties.

At 28 February 2018, the fair value of the 25% equity interest in NEOS was £4.8 million. As a result of remeasuring the equity interest to fair  
value at the acquisition date, a gain of £1.5 million was recognised through net gain on financial instruments and other income in the Group’s 
income statement.

Estimates and judgements
The fair value of certain items of consideration, assets acquired and liabilities assumed requires some estimation. For contingent 
consideration payable on the acquisition of Algonquin, this estimation required assumptions regarding the level of management fees that 
will be earned over the relevant period and carried interest revenue that will be generated. 

Certain assets acquired, including intangible assets arising on acquisition, as well as liabilities assumed also required some estimation. 
The key assumptions included those in respect of management fees earned over the relevant period and carried interest revenue as set 
out above. 

The net impact of changes to these assumptions would be to change the carrying value of individual assets and liabilities with a 
corresponding change to goodwill. The reasonable range of potential outcomes of contingent consideration (undiscounted) is between 
£14.4 million and £27.8 million, compared with the Group’s estimate of the amount payable of £23.8 million.

148

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Presentation of the financial statements
(a) Basis of preparation
The consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance 
with IFRS, as adopted by the European Union, which comprise 
Standards and Interpretations approved by either the IASB or the IFRS 
Interpretations Committee or their predecessors, and with those 
parts of the Companies Act 2006 applicable to companies reporting 
under IFRS.

The consolidated financial information presented within these 
financial statements has been prepared on the going concern basis 
under the historical cost convention, except for the measurement at 
fair value of derivative financial instruments and financial assets and 
liabilities that are held at fair value through profit or loss or at fair 
value through other comprehensive income, liabilities in respect of 
deferred cash awards and certain deposits both with banks and by 
customers and banks (including those that relate to bullion).

The statement of financial position is shown in order of liquidity. The 
classification between current and non-current is set out in the notes. 
The Group’s Life Company business is reported separately. If the 
assets and liabilities of the Group’s Life Company business were to be 
included within existing captions on the Group’s statement of financial 
position, the effect would be to gross up a number of individual line 
items to a material extent. By not doing this, the Group can provide a 
more transparent presentation that shows the assets of the Life 
Company and the related unit-linked liabilities as separate and distinct 
from the remainder of the Group’s statement of financial position.

The Group’s principal accounting policies have been consistently 
applied. Further information is provided below and highlighted in the 
notes to the accounts.

(b) New accounting standards and interpretations

The Group has applied IFRS 9 Financial Instruments (IFRS 9) and 
IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers (IFRS 15) from 
1 January 2018. The nature and effect of these changes are 
disclosed below.

IFRS 9 Financial Instruments
IFRS 9 replaces the classification and measurement models previously 
contained in IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and 
Measurement (IAS 39). In accordance with IFRS 9, the Group’s financial 
assets have been reclassified at amortised cost, fair value through 
other comprehensive income or fair value through profit or loss. 

The Group has applied IFRS 9 retrospectively, with the cumulative 
effect of initially applying the standard recorded as an adjustment to 
the opening profit and loss reserve at 1 January 2018. Comparative 
information has not been restated.

The Group’s accounting policies in respect of the classification and 
measurement of financial instruments in accordance with IFRS 9 are 
set out in notes 3 and 9.

The table below sets out the impact of reclassifying the Group’s 
financial assets in accordance with IFRS 9 following its adoption on 
1 January 2018. For the Group, the adoption of IFRS 9 resulted in 
certain investments in debt instruments being reclassified from 
available-for-sale financial asssets in accordance with IAS 39 to 
financial assets at fair value through profit or loss under IFRS 9.

IFRS 9 classifications:

Financial assets at amortised cost

Financial assets at fair value through other 
comprehensive income

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

Total financial assets

£m

1,492.2

925.4

1,063.2

3,480.8

IFRS 9 introduces an expected loss model for the assessment of 
impairment and replaces the incurred loss model in IAS 39. This 
change has reduced the Group’s net assets at 1 January 2018 by 
£0.6 million. The reduction in net assets is driven by the impairment 
requirements on financial assets measured at amortised cost 
(see note 19).

IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers
IFRS 15 supersedes IAS 18 Revenue, IAS 11 Construction Contracts 
and related interpretations. The standard introduces a five step model 
for recognising revenue, which consists of identifying the contract 
with the customer; identifying the relevant performance obligations; 
determining the amount of consideration to be received under the 
contract; allocating the consideration to each performance obligation; 
and earning the revenue as the performance obligations are satisfied. 

The Group has applied IFRS 15 retrospectively, with the cumulative 
effect of initially applying the standard recorded as an adjustment to 
the opening profit and loss reserve at 1 January 2018. Comparative 
information has not been restated. The Group did not apply any of the 
practical expedients available under the full retrospective method.

The Group has undertaken a comprehensive review of its contracts 
with customers and concluded that, excluding carried interest, there 
is no impact on the way in which the Group recognises its revenues. 
IFRS 15 constrains the amount of revenue that is recognised when 
estimating variable consideration. As carried interest is earned over a 
longer period of time, the Group has constrained the amount of 
revenue that is recognised to reduce the risk of significant reversal. 
This change has reduced the Group’s net assets on 1 January 2018 by 
£17.9 million. This comprises a £19.6 million reduction to accrued 
income relating to carried interest, and a £1.7 million reduction to 
related deferred tax liabilities.

In addition to the above, the net operating revenue note (note 2) has 
been re-presented to further disaggregate revenue into categories 
that better depict the nature of the revenues. 2017 has been 
reformatted for consistency with the 2018 presentation.

The Group’s accounting policy in respect of IFRS 15 is set out in note 2.

(c) Future accounting developments
The Group did not implement the requirements of any other 
Standards or Interpretations that were in issue but were not required 
to be adopted by the Group at the year end date. The Standards and 
Interpretations relevant to the Group that had been issued but not yet 
adopted at the year end were IFRS 16 Leases (IFRS 16) and IFRIC 23 
Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments (IFRIC 23).

The expected impact of these standards on the Group is set out 
below. No other Standards or Interpretations have been issued that 
are expected to have an impact on the Group’s financial statements.

IAS 39 classifications:

Financial assets at amortised cost

Available-for-sale financial assets

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

Total financial assets

£m

1,492.2

994.9

993.7

3,480.8

IFRS 16 Leases
IFRS 16 replaces IAS 17 Leases and is effective for reporting periods 
beginning on or after 1 January 2019. Where the Group is a lessee, 
IFRS 16 requires operating leases to be recorded in the Group’s 
statement of financial position. A right-of-use (ROU) asset will be 
recognised within property, plant and equipment and a lease liability 
will be recorded. 

149

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statements 
Financial statements continued

Notes to the accounts continued

Presentation of the financial statements continued
The ROU asset and lease liability will be calculated based on the 
expected payments, requiring an assessment as to the likely effect of 
renewal options, and are discounted using the relevant incremental 
borrowing rate.

The ROU asset will be depreciated on a straight-line basis over the 
expected life of the lease. The lease liability will be reduced as lease 
payments are made with an interest expense recognised using the 
effective interest method (see note 2) as a component of finance 
costs. This will result in a higher proportion of the lease expense 
being recognised earlier in the life of the lease.

In preparation for transition to IFRS 16, the Group has reviewed all 
its leasing arrangements and assessed the estimated impact that the 
initial application of IFRS 16 will have on its consolidated financial 
statements. The Group intends to adopt IFRS 16 retrospectively with 
the cumulative effect of initially applying the standard recognised 
as an adjustment to the opening profit and loss reserve at 
1 January 2019. 

Under this approach, the ROU asset will be measured on transition 
as if the new rules had always been applied, using the appropriate 
discount rate at 1 January 2019. Comparative information will not 
be restated. The Group expects to apply the optional exemption 
contained within IFRS 16, which permits the cost of short-term 
(less than 12 months) leases to be expensed on a straight-line basis 
over the lease term. These lease arrangements are not material to 
the Group.

At 31 December 2018, the Group had non-cancellable operating 
lease commitments of £500 million, see note 23. Consequently,  
on 1 January 2019 the Group expects to recognise ROU assets and 
lease liabilities of approximately £411 million and £419 million 
respectively. This change will reduce the Group’s net assets by 
approximately £8 million (before tax). As the Group has recently 
renewed a number of lease arrangements, the adoption of IFRS 16 
will reduce the Group’s profit before tax with respect to these leases. 
However, IFRS 16 is not expected to have a material impact on the 
Group’s profit before tax.

IFRIC 23 Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments
On 7 June 2017, the IASB issued IFRIC 23. The interpretation provides 
clarification as to how the recognition and measurement 
requirements of IAS 12 Income Tax should be applied. The Group has 
assessed the impact of IFRIC 23 and does not expect it to have a 
material impact when it becomes effective on 1 January 2019.

(d) Basis of consolidation
The consolidated financial information includes the total 
comprehensive gains or losses, the financial position and the cash 
flows of the Company and its subsidiaries, associates and joint 
ventures. Details of the Company’s related undertakings are 
presented in note 37. This includes share ownership trusts established 
for certain share-based awards. In the case of associates and joint 
ventures, those entities are presented as single line items in the 
Income statement and Statement of financial position (see note 10). 
Intercompany transactions and balances are eliminated on 
consolidation. Consistent accounting policies have been applied 
across the Group in the preparation of the consolidated financial 
statements.

The entities included in the consolidation may vary year on year due 
to both the restructuring of the Group (including acquisitions and 
disposals) and changes to the number and net assets of pooled 
investment vehicles managed by the Group where the shareholding 
in the year results in control, as defined by IFRS.

In such cases, the investment vehicle is consolidated and the third 
party interest is normally recorded as a financial liability. This 
consolidation has no net effect on the Income statement.

This treatment continues until the Group loses control, as defined 
by IFRS.

150

(e) Net gains and losses on foreign exchange
Many subsidiaries are denominated in currencies other than sterling. 
The results of these subsidiaries are translated at the average rate of 
exchange. At the year end, the assets and liabilities are translated at 
the closing rate of exchange. Gains or losses on translation are 
recorded in the Statement of comprehensive income and as a 
separate component of equity together with gains or losses on 
any hedges of overseas operations. Such gains or losses are 
transferred to the Income statement on disposal or liquidation 
of the relevant subsidiary.

Transactions undertaken in foreign currencies are translated into the 
functional currency of the subsidiary at the exchange rate prevailing 
on the date of the transaction. Foreign currency assets and liabilities 
are translated into the functional currency at the rates of exchange 
ruling at the year end date. Any exchange differences arising are 
included within ‘Net gain on financial instruments and other income’ 
in the Income statement unless they relate to non-monetary items 
where such gains or losses are recognised directly in other 
comprehensive income.

(f) Estimates and judgements
The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with IFRS 
requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates. It also 
requires management to exercise its judgement in the process of 
applying the Group’s accounting policies and in determining whether 
certain assets and liabilities should be recorded or an impairment 
recognised. Any areas involving a higher degree of judgement or 
complexity, or areas where assumptions and estimates are significant 
to the financial statements, are disclosed within the notes and 
identified under the title estimates and judgements. Estimates and 
judgements used in preparing the financial statements are 
periodically evaluated and are based on historical experience and 
other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed 
to be reasonable. The resulting accounting estimates may not equal 
the related actual results.

The estimates and judgements that could have a significant effect 
on the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities are set out in the 
following notes:

Note 5

Note 8

Note 9

Note 12

Note 16

Note 17

Note 24

Note 28

Tax expense 

Trade and other receivables

Financial assets 

Goodwill and intangible assets 

Financial liabilities

Provisions and contingent liabilities 

Retirement benefit obligations 

Business combinations

In applying IFRS 10 Consolidated Financial Statements, the Group 
uses judgement to determine whether its interests in funds (and 
other entities), including those held by the Group’s Life Company, 
constitute controlling interests. The Group has interests in funds 
through its role as fund manager and through its proprietary 
investments in funds. The Group considers all relevant facts and 
circumstances in assessing whether it has power over specific funds 
or other entities. This includes consideration of the purpose and 
design of an investee, the extent of the Group’s exposure to variability 
of returns as an investor and, where appropriate, as a fund manager, 
and the Group’s ability to direct the relevant activities, including 
whether it has substantive or protective rights through voting rights 
and potential voting rights. These considerations are reassessed if 
there are indications that circumstances have changed since the 
original assessment.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Schroders plc – Statement of financial position
at 31 December 2018

Assets

Trade and other receivables

Retirement benefit scheme surplus

Investments in subsidiaries

Total assets

Liabilities

Trade and other payables

Deferred tax

Total liabilities

Net assets

Equity at 1 January

Profit for the year

Dividends

Other changes in equity

Equity at 31 December

Notes

2018
£m

2017
£m

31

24

37

32

33

1,435.7

155.6

3,092.6

4,683.9

30.4

20.9

51.3

1,357.6

162.9

3,092.6

4,613.1

54.9

19.9

74.8

4,632.6

4,538.3

4,538.3

4,313.0

423.7

(311.7)

(17.7)

458.2

(267.6)

34.7

4,632.6

4,538.3

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on 6 March 2019 and signed on its behalf by:

Richard Keers

Director

151

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Schroders plc – Statement of changes in equity
for the year ended 31 December 2018

At 1 January 2018

Restatement on adoption of IFRS 9

At 1 January 2018 (restated)

Profit for the year

Items that will not be reclassified to the income statement:

Actuarial loss on defined benefit pension scheme

Tax on items taken directly to other comprehensive income

Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income for the year

Own shares purchased

Share-based payments

Tax in respect of share schemes

Dividends

Transactions with shareholders

Transfers

At 31 December 2018

At 1 January 2017

Profit for the year

Items that will not be reclassified to the income statement:

Actuarial gain on defined benefit pension scheme

Tax on items taken directly to other comprehensive income

Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income for the year

Shares cancelled

Own shares purchased

Share-based payments

Tax in respect of share schemes

Dividends

Transactions with shareholders

Transfers

At 31 December 2017

Notes

24

35

7

Share  
capital 
£m

282.5

–

282.5

Share  
premium 
£m

124.2

–

Own  
shares 
£m

(150.0)

–

Profit and  
loss  
reserve 
£m

Total 
£m

4,281.6

4,538.3

(1.1)

(1.1)

124.2

(150.0)

4,280.5

4,537.2

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(66.7)

–

–

–

(66.7)

423.7

423.7

(11.5)

2.0

(9.5)

(11.5)

2.0

(9.5)

414.2

414.2

–

60.3

(0.7)

(311.7)

(252.1)

(66.7)

60.3

(0.7)

(311.7)

(318.8)

70.6

(70.6)

–

282.5

124.2

(146.1)

4,372.0

4,632.6

Notes

Share  
capital 
£m

282.7

Share  
premium 
£m

Own  
shares 
£m

Profit and  
loss  
reserve 
£m

Total 
£m

124.2

(148.9)

4,055.0

4,313.0

24

20

35

7

–

–

–

–

–

(0.2)

–

–

–

–

(0.2)

–

282.5

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

5.4

(53.7)

–

–

–

(48.3)

458.2

458.2

41.5

(7.0)

34.5

41.5

(7.0)

34.5

492.7

492.7

(5.2)

–

53.3

0.6

(267.6)

(218.9)

–

(53.7)

53.3

0.6

(267.6)

(267.4)

47.2

(47.2)

–

124.2

(150.0)

4,281.6

4,538.3

The distributable profits of Schroders plc are £2.8 billion (2017: £2.7 billion) and comprise distributable retained profits of £2.9 billion  
(2017: £2.8 billion), included within the ‘Profit and loss reserve’, less amounts held within the own shares reserve.

The Group’s ability to pay dividends is however restricted by the need to hold regulatory capital and to maintain sufficient other operating capital 
to support its ongoing business activities. In addition, the Group invests in its own funds as seed capital for the purposes of supporting new 
investment strategies. An analysis of the Group’s capital position is provided in note 19.

152

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Schroders plc – Cash flow statement
for the year ended 31 December 2018

Profit before tax

Adjustments for:

Increase in trade and other receivables

Decrease in trade and other payables

Net credit taken in respect of the defined benefit pension scheme

Share-based payments

Amounts received in respect of Group tax relief

Net finance income

Net cash from operating activities

Cash flows from financing activities

Repayment of loan received from a Group company

Acquisition of own shares

Dividends paid

Net cash used in financing activities

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents

Opening cash and cash equivalents

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents

Closing cash and cash equivalents

29. Significant accounting policies

2018
£m

418.2

2017
£m

453.9

(76.8)

(10.0)

(4.2)

60.3

5.4

–

(182.0)

(6.6)

(3.2)

53.3

6.2

(0.3)

392.9

321.3

(14.5)

(66.7)

(311.7)

(392.9)

–

(53.7)

(267.6)

(321.3)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

The separate financial statements of Schroders plc (Company) have been prepared on a going concern basis in accordance with the 
Companies Act 2006 (Act) applicable to companies reporting under IFRS, and accounting policies that have been applied consistently. 
As permitted by the Act, the separate financial statements have been prepared in accordance with IFRS (as adopted by the European Union), 
which comprise standards and interpretations approved by either the International Accounting Standards Board or the IFRS Interpretations 
Committee or their predecessors, as at 31 December 2018. The Company has taken advantage of the exemption in section 408 of the Act not 
to present its own income statement and statement of comprehensive income.

The financial statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis. The principal accounting policies adopted are the same as those 
set out in the Group’s financial statement note disclosures, where applicable. In addition note 37 sets out the accounting policy in respect of 
investments in subsidiary undertakings.

153

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Schroders plc – Notes to the accounts

30. Expenses and other disclosures
The auditor’s remuneration for audit services to the Company was £0.6 million (2017: £0.6 million). There were no fees relating to further 
assurance services in the year (2017: nil).

EY replaced PwC as the Group’s principal auditor for the 2018 financial year.

Key management personnel compensation
The remuneration policy is described in more detail at schroders.com/directors-remuneration-policy. The Company has no employees. The key 
management personnel of the Company are defined as the Board of Directors. The remuneration of key management personnel during the year 
was as follows:

Type of remuneration

Typical composition of this type of benefit

Short-term employee benefits

Salary and upfront bonus

Share-based payments

Other long-term benefits

Deferred share awards

Deferred cash awards

31. Trade and other receivables

Amounts due from subsidiaries

Other receivables

2018
£m

6.8

1.7

2.3

10.8

2017
£m

7.0

3.3

3.8

14.1

2018
£m

2017
£m

1,427.9

1,357.2

7.8

0.4

1,435.7

1,357.6

Trade and other receivables are initially recorded at fair value and subsequently at amortised cost. All trade and other receivables are due within 
one year or repayable on demand.

Expected credit losses on trade and other receivables at 31 December 2018 were £1.1 million (1 January 2018: £1.1 million). Note 19 sets out the 
details of the expected credit loss calculation.

32. Trade and other payables

Trade and other payables held at amortised cost:

Social security

Accruals

Other payables

Amounts owed to subsidiaries

2018

2017

Non-current 
£m

Current 
£m

Total 
£m

Non-current 
£m

Current 
£m

3.0

4.5

–

–

7.5

2.2

13.2

–

7.5

22.9

5.2

17.7

–

7.5

30.4

3.8

8.8

–

–

12.6

The Company’s trade and other payables mature in the following time periods:

Less than one year

1 – 2 years

2 – 3 years

3 – 4 years

Total 
£m

7.1

20.2

1.0

26.6

54.9

2017
£m

42.3

9.4

2.4

0.8

12.6

3.3

11.4

1.0

26.6

42.3

2018
£m

22.9

4.6

2.0

0.9

7.5

Amounts owed to subsidiaries include an interest-bearing loan of £7.0 million (2017: £21.5 million) that is repayable on demand.

30.4

54.9

154

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 201833. Deferred tax

At 1 January

Income statement charge

Income statement charge/(credit) due to changes in tax rates

(Credit)/charge to statement of other comprehensive income

Charge/(credit) taken to equity

At 31 December

Deferred 
employee 
awards
£m

(7.8)

1.3

–

–

1.0

(5.5)

2018

Pension 
surplus
£m

27.7

0.7

–

(2.0)

–

Total
£m

19.9

2.0

–

(2.0)

1.0

26.4

20.9

Deferred 
employee 
awards
£m

(7.4)

0.1

0.1

–

(0.6)

(7.8)

2017

Pension 
surplus
£m

20.1

0.7

(0.1)

7.0

–

27.7

Total
£m

12.7

0.8

–

7.0

(0.6)

19.9

34. Financial instrument risk management
The Company’s policy is to have adequate capital for all activities undertaken in the normal course of business. In particular, it should have 
adequate capital to maintain sufficient liquid funds to meet peak working capital requirements. Generally, surplus capital is loaned back to 
the Group’s investment capital management entities.

The risk management processes of the Company are aligned with those of the Group as a whole. Details of the Group’s risk management 
processes are outlined in the ‘Key risks and mitigations’ section within the Strategic report and the ‘Risk and internal controls’ section within 
the Audit and Risk Committee report as well as in note 19. The Company’s specific risk exposures are explained below.

Credit risk
The Company has exposure to credit risk from its normal activities where the risk is that a counterparty will be unable to pay in full amounts 
when due. The Company’s counterparties are predominantly its subsidiaries and therefore there is minimal external credit risk exposure.

Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Company cannot meet its obligations as they fall due or can only do so at a cost. The Group’s liquidity policy is 
to maintain sufficient liquidity to cover any cash flow funding, meet all obligations as they fall due and maintain solvency. The Company holds 
sufficient liquid funds to cover its needs in the normal course of business. The Company can recall intercompany loans to subsidiaries or utilise 
the Group loan facility to maintain sufficient liquidity.

Interest rate risk
Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value of future cash flows of financial instruments will fluctuate because of changes in market interest 
rates.

At 31 December 2018, if interest rates had been 100 bps higher (2017: 50 bps higher) or 50 bps lower (2017: 50 bps lower) with all other variables 
held constant, the Company estimates that post-tax profit for the year would have increased by £11.0 million (2017: increased by £5.2 million) 
or decreased by £5.5 million (2017: decreased by £5.2 million) respectively. These changes are mainly as a result of net interest income on the 
Company’s interest-bearing intercompany receivables and payables and cash. Other components of equity are not directly affected by interest 
rate movements.

The model used to calculate the effect on post-tax profits does not take into account the indirect effect of interest rates on the fair value of other 
assets and liabilities.

Foreign exchange and pricing risk
Foreign exchange risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of financial instruments will fluctuate because of changes in foreign 
exchange rates. Pricing risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of financial instruments will fluctuate because of changes in market 
prices. The Company is not directly exposed to foreign exchange or pricing risk. The Company’s investments in its directly-held subsidiaries are 
in sterling and are held at historic cost. It has indirect exposure to foreign exchange and pricing risk in the Group, which could result in the 
impairment of these subsidiaries. There are currently sufficient resources in subsidiaries to absorb any normal market events.

35. Own shares
Movements in own shares during the year were as follows:

At 1 January

Own shares purchased

Own shares cancelled

Awards vested

At 31 December

2018
£m

(150.0)

(66.7)

–

70.6

2017
£m

(148.9)

(53.7)

5.4

47.2

(146.1)

(150.0)

During the year 2.1 million own shares (2017: 1.7 million own shares) were purchased and held for hedging share-based awards. 2.6 million 
shares (2017: 2.2 million shares) awarded to employees vested in the period and were transferred out of own shares.

155

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Schroders plc – Notes to the accounts continued

35. Own shares continued
The total number of shares in the Company held within the Company’s employee benefit trusts comprise:

Ordinary shares

Non-voting ordinary shares

Ordinary shares:

Cost

Fair value

Non-voting ordinary shares:

Cost

Fair value

Total:

Cost

Fair value

Number of 
vested 
shares 
Millions

2.6

–

2.6

Vested 
shares
£m

57.5

65.0

0.2

0.7

57.7

65.7

2018

Number of 
unvested 
shares 
Millions

5.5

0.1

5.6

2018

Unvested 
shares
£m

144.9

133.9

1.2

1.4

Total
Millions

8.1

0.1

8.2

Total
£m

202.4

198.9

1.4

2.1

146.1

135.3

203.8

201.0

Number of 
vested 
shares
Millions

2.0

0.2

2.2

Vested 
shares
£m

32.4

67.2

2.6

5.6

35.0

72.8

2017

Number of 
unvested 
shares 
Millions

6.0

0.1

6.1

2017

Unvested 
shares
£m

148.4

216.7

1.6

2.4

Total
Millions

8.0

0.3

8.3

Total
£m

180.8

283.9

4.2

8.0

150.0

219.1

185.0

291.9

36. Related party transactions
The Company is not deemed to be controlled or jointly controlled by a party directly or through intermediaries under IFRS. As a result the related 
parties of the Company comprise principally subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates, key management personnel, close family members of 
key management personnel and any entity controlled by those parties.

The Company has determined that key management personnel comprises only the Board of Directors.

Transactions between related parties
Details of transactions between the Company and its subsidiaries, which are related parties of the Company, and transactions between the 
Company and other related parties, excluding compensation (which is set out in note 30), are disclosed below:

Subsidiaries of the Company

Key management personnel

Subsidiaries of the Company

Key management personnel

Revenue
£m

447.0

0.4

Expenses
£m

22.4

–

Revenue
£m

479.3

0.2

Expenses
£m

11.3

–

2018

Interest 
receivable
£m

5.6

–

2017

Interest 
receivable
£m

2.1

–

Interest 
payable
£m

Amounts owed 
by related 
parties
£m

Amounts owed 
to related 
parties
£m

0.2

0.1

1,427.9

3.8

(7.5)

(42.5)

Interest 
payable
£m

Amounts owed 
by related 
parties
£m

Amounts owed 
to related 
parties
£m

0.3

–

1,357.2

–

(26.6)

(54.1)

Transactions with related parties were made at market rates. The amounts outstanding are unsecured and will be settled in cash. 

156

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 201837. Subsidiaries and other related undertakings
The Group operates globally, which results in the Company having a corporate structure consisting of a number of related undertakings, 
comprising subsidiaries, joint ventures, associates and other qualifying undertakings. A full list of these undertakings, the country of 
incorporation, registered office, classes of shares held and the effective percentage of equity owned at 31 December 2018 is disclosed below.

Additionally, related undertakings include entities where the Company has a significant holding of a share class or unit class of a pooled vehicle. 
These holdings can arise through the Group’s investment management activities on behalf of clients or as part of the stated aim of generating a 
return on investment capital. Additionally, the seeding of structured entities in order to develop new investment strategies can give rise to these 
holdings. A listing of related undertakings arising from the Company’s interest in structured entities along with registered offices is included on 
pages 164 to 167.

(a) Related undertakings arising from the Company’s corporate structure
Principal subsidiaries
The principal subsidiaries listed below are those that, in the opinion of the Directors, principally affect the consolidated profits or net assets of 
the Company, or are regulated. The principal subsidiary entities are wholly-owned subsidiary undertakings of the Company, unless otherwise 
stated. All undertakings operate in the countries where they are registered or incorporated and are stated at cost less, where appropriate, 
provisions for impairment.

Name

UK

Aspect8 Limitedf

Best Practice IFA Group Limitedf

Evolution Wealth Network Limitedf

Fusion Funds Limitedf

Fusion Wealth Limitedf

Leadenhall Securities Corporation Limited

Schroder & Co. Limited

Schroder Administration Limiteda

Schroder Corporate Services Limited

Schroder Financial Services Limited

Schroder Investment Company Limited

Schroder Investment Management Limited

Schroder Investment Management North America Limited

Schroder Pension Management Limited

Schroder Real Estate Investment Management Limited

Schroder Unit Trusts Limited

Schroder Wealth Management (US) Limited

Argentina 

Schroder Investment Management S.A.

Australia 

Share class

% Address 

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS 

OS

OS 

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

77% Sussex House, North Street, Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 1RQ, England

77%

77%

77%

77%

100% 1 London Wall Place, London, EC2Y 5AU, England

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

 95% Ing.Enrique Butty 220, Piso 12, Buenos Aires, C1001AFB, Argentina

Schroder Investment Management Australia Limited

OS, CPS

100% Level 20, Angel Place, 123 Pitt Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia

Bermuda

Schroders (Bermuda) Limited

Brazil 

Schroder Investment Management Brasil Ltda

Canada

Schroder Canada Inc.

France

Algonquin Management Partners France 

Schroder AIDA SAS

Germany

Schroder Investment Management GmbH

Schroder Real Estate Investment Management GmbH

Schroder Real Estate Kapitalverwaltungsgesellschaft mbH 

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

CS

OS

OS

100% Wellesley House, 2nd Floor, 90 Pitts Bay Road, Pembroke HM 08, Bermuda

100% 100 Joaquim Floriano, 14th Floor, Suite 142, Itaim Bibi, São Paulo, São 

Paulo, 04534000, Brazil

100% 7 Bryant Park, New York, New York, 10018, USA

100% 60 rue Pierre Charron, 75008, Paris, France

70% 8-10 rue Lamennais, 75008, Paris, France

100% Taunustor 1, 60310, Frankfurt, Germany

100%

100%

157

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Schroders plc – Notes to the accounts continued

37. Subsidiaries and other related undertakings continued
(a) Related undertakings arising from the Company’s corporate structure continued
Principal subsidiaries continued

Name

Guernsey

Burnaby Insurance (Guernsey) Limited 

Schroders (C.I.) Limited 

Schroder Investment Company (Guernsey) Limited 

Share class

% Address

OS

OS

OS

100% Heritage Hall, Le Marchant Street, St Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 4JH, 

Channel Islands

100% PO Box 334, Regency Court, Glategny Esplanade, St Peter Port, Guernsey, 

100%

GY1 3UF, Channel Islands

Schroder Venture Managers (Guernsey) Limited 

OS, NCRPS

100%

Hong Kong

Schroder Adveq Management (Hong Kong) Limited

Schroder & Co. (Hong Kong) Limited 

Schroder Investment Management (Hong Kong) Limited 

Indonesia

PT Schroder Investment Management Indonesia 

Ireland

Schroder Investment Management (Ireland) Limited 

Italy

Schroders Italy SIM S.p.A. 

Japan

Schroder Investment Management (Japan) Limited 

Jersey

Schroder Real Estate Managers (Jersey) Limited

Luxembourg

Schroder Investment Management (Europe) S.A.

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

100% Sutie 616, 100 Queen’s Road Central, Central, Hong Kong, Hong Kong

100% Level 54, Hopewell Centre, 183 Queen's Road East, Hong Kong, Hong 

Kong

100% Level 33, Two Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Hong Kong, Hong Kong

99% 30th Floor, Indonesia Stock Exchange Building, Tower 1, Jl Jendral 

Sudirman Kav 52-53, Jakarta, 12190, Indonesia

100% George's Court, 54-62 Townsend Street, Dublin 2, Ireland

100% Via Della Spiga, 30-20121, Milan, Italy

100% 8-3, Marunouchi 1-chome, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 100-0005, Japan

100% 40 Esplanade, St Helier, Jersey, JE4 9WB, Channel Islands

100% 5 rue Höhenhof, L-1736 Senningerberg, Luxembourg

Schroder Real Estate Investment Management (Luxembourg) S.à.r.l. OS

100%

Mexico

Consultora Schroders, S.A. de C.V.d e

OS 

99% Montes Urales 760 Desp. 101, Col. Lomas de Chapultepec, Mexico, DF, 

11000, Mexico

Singapore

Schroder & Co (Asia) Limited 

Schroder Investment Management (Singapore) Ltd. 

South Korea

Schroders Korea Limited

Switzerland

Schroder Adveq Management AG 

Schroder & Co Bank AG 

Schroder Investment Management (Switzerland) AG 

Secquaero Advisors AG

Taiwan

Schroder Investment Management (Taiwan) Limited 

United States

Schroder Adveq Management US Inc.

Schroder Fund Advisors LLC 

Schroder Investment Management North America Inc.  

Schroder US Holdings Inc. 

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

COS

COS

COS

100% 138 Market Street, #23-02, CapitaGreen, Singapore, 048946, Singapore

100%

100% 26th fl., 136, Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul 100-768, Korea 

100% Affolternstrasse 56, 8050, Zurich, Switzerland

100% Central 2, 8001, Zurich, Switzerland

100%

50%

100% 9/F, 108 Sec.5, Hsin-Yi Road, Hsin-Yi District, Taipei 11047, Taiwan

100% Corporate Trust Center, 1209 OrangeStret, Wilmington, Delaware, 

19801, USA

100% 7 Bryant Park, New York, New York, 10018, USA

100%

100% National Registered Agents, Inc., 160 Greentree Drive, Suite 101, Dover, 

Delaware, 19904, USA

158

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 201837. Subsidiaries and other related undertakings continued
(a) Related undertakings arising from the Company’s corporate structure continued
Fully owned subsidiaries

Name

UK

Adveq Founder Partner (GP) Limited 

Adveq Founder Partner Limited 

Adveq GP LLP 

Algonquin Management Partners (UK) Ltd

Cazenove Capital Management Limited 

Cazenove New Europe (CFM1) Limitedb

Cazenove New Europe (PPI) Limitedb

Cazenove New Europe Staff Interest Limitedb

CCM Nominees Limitedb 

Chilcomb Wealth Ltd

Croydon Gateway Nominee 1 Limited 

Croydon Gateway Nominee 2 Limited 

J. Henry Schroder Wagg & Co. Limitedb 

Schroder Adveq Management (UK) Limited 

Schroder & Co Nominees Limitedb

Schroder Financial Holdings Limited 

Schroder Infra Debt GP LLP 

Schroder International Holdings Limited

Schroder Nominees Limitedb 

Schroder Pension Trustee Limited 

Schroder Private Assets Holdings Limited 

Schroder Wealth Holdings Limited 

Schroder Wealth International Holdings Limited

The Lexicon Management Company Limited

UK PEM Partners Limited 

Schroder Investments Limited (In Liquidation)

Australia

Schroder Australia Holdings Pty Limited 

Belgium 

Algonquin Management Partners S.A.

Bermuda

Schroder General Partner (Bermuda) Limited

Schroder Management Company (Bermuda) Limited 

Schroder Venture Managers Limited 

SITCO Nominees Limited 

Canada

Share class

% Address 

OS

OS

PI

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

PI

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

COS

OS

100% 50 Lothian Road, Festival Square, Edinburgh, EH3 9WJ, Scotland 

100%

100%

100% 5 Elstree Gate, Elstree Way, Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, WD6 1JD, England 

100% 1 London Wall Place, London, EC2Y 5AU, England 

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100% c/o CVR Global LLP, Town Wall House, Balkerne Hill, Colchester, Essex, 

CO3 3AD, England

100% Level 20, Angel Place, 123 Pitt Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia

100% Avenue Louise, 523 – 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium

100% Wellesley House, 2nd Floor, 90 Pitts Bay Road, Pembroke HM 08, Bermuda

100%

100%

100%

Schroder Canada Investments Inc

COS

100% c/o Cidel Financial Group, 60 Bloor Street West, 9th Floor, Toronto, Ontario, 

M4W 3B8, Canada

Cayman Islands

AEROW SMA Management I L.P.

PEM Partners Ltd

Schroder Adveq cPl Global Management III L.P.

Chile

Schroders Chile SpA 

China 

Schroder Investment Management (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.

Schroder Adveq Investment Management (Beijing) Co., Ltd.

PI

OS

PI

OS

OS

OS

100% Maples & Calder, PO Box 309 GT, Ugland House, South Church Street, 

George Town, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

100%

100%

100% Avenida Cerro El Plomo 5420 Oficina 1104, Les Condes, Santiago, Chile

100% Unit 1101, 11/F, Shanghai IFC Phase 1 (HSBC Building), No. 8 Century 

Avenue, Pudong, Shanghai, 200120, China

100% Room 1929-1932, Winland International Finance Centre, 7 Finance Street, 

Xicheng District, Beijing, 100033, China

159

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Schroders plc – Notes to the accounts continued

37. Subsidiaries and other related undertakings continued
(a) Related undertakings arising from the Company’s corporate structure continued
Fully owned subsidiaries continued

Share class

% Address 

Name

Curaçao

Schroder Adveq Investors B.V. 

cPl Schroder Adveq Investments Management B.V 

Schroder Adveq Management N.V 

France

Holdco LC Paris Blomet SAS

Schroder Real Estate Investment Management (France) 

Terre et Mer Hotels

Germany

Blitz 06-953 GmbH

Real Neunzehnte Verwaltungsgesellschaft mbH

Schroder Adveq Management Deutschland GmbH 

Schroder Eurologistik Fonds Verwaltungs GmbH

Schroder Holdings (Deutschland) GmbH 

Schroder Italien Fonds Verwaltungs GmbH 

SPrIM Holdings GmbH

SIMA 5 Verwaltungsgesellschaft mbH

Guernsey

Schroder Investments (Guernsey) Limited 

Schroder Investment Management (Guernsey) Limited

Schroder Nominees (Guernsey) Limited 

Secquaero Re (Guernsey) ICC Ltd 

Schroder Ventures European Fund Managers Limited (In 
Liquidation)

Hong Kong

Schroders Asia Nominees Limited 

S & C Nominees Limited 

Jersey

AAF Management II L.P.

AAF Management III L.P.

BKMS Management L.P.

BKMS Management II L.P.

Cresta Management L.P.

Cresta Management II L.P.

EEM Management II L.P.

EEM Opportunities Management L.P.

Gemini Management L.P.

IST3 Manesse PE Management L.P.

SA-EL Asia Partners I L.P.

Salève 2017 Management L.P.

Schroder Adveq Asia Partners V L.P.

Schroder Adveq EEM Management I L.P.

Schroder Adveq Europe Direct Partners II L.P.

Schroder Adveq Europe Partners VII L.P.

Schroder Adveq Global Partners II L.P.

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS 

CS

OS 

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

Schroder Adveq Mature Secondaries (Orthros) Management II L.P. PI

Schroder Adveq Mature Secondaries (Orthros) Management III L.P. PI

Schroder Adveq Mature Secondaries (Orthros) Management IV L.P. PI

Schroder Adveq Mature Secondaries (Orthros) Management L.P.

Schroder Adveq Secondaries Management III L.P.

Schroder Adveq Technology Partners IX L.P.

Schroder Adveq US Partners V L.P.

SC-SA Co-Invest Opportunities 2018 Management L.P.

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

160

100% Johan van, Walbeeckplein 11, Willemstad, Curaçao

100%

100%

100% 60 rue Pierre Charron, 75008, Paris, France

100% 8-10 rue Lamennais, 75008, Paris, France

100% 22 rue Jean-Louis Barrault, 26000, Valence, France

100% Taunustor 1, 60310, Frankfurt, Germany

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100% PO Box 334, Regency Court, Glategny Esplanade, St Peter Port, 

Guernsey, GY1 3UF, Channel Islands

100%

100%

100% Maison Trinity, Trinity Square, St Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 4AT, 

Channel Islands

100% PO Box 255, Trafalgar Court, Les Banques, St Peter Port, Guernsey, 

GY1 3QL, Channel Islands

100% Level 33, Two Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Hong Kong, Hong Kong

100%

100% 26 New Street, St Helier, Jersey, JE2 3RA, Channel Islands

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 201837. Subsidiaries and other related undertakings continued
(a) Related undertakings arising from the Company’s corporate structure continued
Fully owned subsidiaries continued

Name

Jersey (continued)

TMC Management III L.P.

TMC Management IV L.P.

TMCO Management I L.P.

Wilmersdorf Secondary Management II L.P.

Cazenove Capital Holdings Limited

Croydon Gateway GP Limited

Croydon Gateway Investments Limited

Income Plus Real Estate Debt GP Limited

Lerisson Nominees Limited

Schroder Adveq Management Jersey Ltd

Luxembourg

SNI Management S.à r.l.

SRE Invest SCSp

Schroder Adveq Management Luxembourg S.à r.l.

Schroder Adveq US Management V S.à r.l.

Schroder Adveq US Partners V S.C.S

Schroder Adveq Asia Management V S.à r.l.

Netherlands 

Schroder International Finance B.V.

Singapore 

Schroder Singapore Holdings Private Limited

SIMBL Nominees Private Limited

Switzerland 

Schroder Adveq Holding AG

Schroder Trust AG (In Liquidation)

United States 

Schroders Incorporated

Schroder Venture Managers Inc.

Share class

% Address

PI

PI

PI

PI

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

PI

OS

OS

PI

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

100% 26 New Street, St Helier, Jersey, JE2 3RA, Channel Islands

100%

100%

100%

100% 44 Esplanade, St Helier, Jersey, JE4 9WG, Channel Islands

100% 40 Esplanade, St Helier, Jersey, JE2 9WB, Channel Islands

100%

100%

100%

100%

100% 5 rue Höhenhof, L-1736 Senningerberg, Luxembourg

100%

100% 6C rue Gabriel Lippmann, Munsbach, L-5365, Luxembourg

100%

100%

100%

100% 1 London Wall Place, London, EC2Y 5AU, England 

100% 138 Market Street, #23-02, CapitaGreen, Singapore, 048946, Singapore

100%

100% Affolternstrasse 56, 8050, Zurich , Switzerland

100% 8 rue d'italie, P.O. Box 3655, 41211, Geneva, Switzerland

COS

COS

100% 9 East Loockerman Street, Dover, Delaware, 19901, USA

100% 7 Bryant Park, New York, New York, 10018, USA

Other corporate related undertakings
Subsidiaries where the ownership is less than 100%

Name

UK

Alderbrook Financial Planning Limitedf

Benchmark Capital Limitedd

Brian Potter Consultants Limitedf

Bright Square Pensions Limitedf

City Capital Analysis Limitedf 

City Capital Analysis (JCB) Limitedf

Creative Technologies Limitedf

CT Connectf 

Invicta Independent Financial Advisers Limitedf

PP Nominees Limitedf

PP Trustees Limitedf

RIA Pension Trustees Limitedf

Richard Martin Financial Solutions Limitedf

Redbourne Wealth Management Ltdf

Residential Land Development (GP) LLP 

Argentina 

Schroder S.A. Sociedad Gerente de Fondos Comunes de 
Inversion

Share class

% Address

OS

OS 

OS

OS

OS

OS 

OS

OS

OS 

OS

OS 

OS

OS

OS

PI

OS

77% Sussex House, North Street, Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 1RQ, England 

77%

77%

77%

77%

77%

77%

77%

77%

77%

77%

77%

77%

52% Belmont House, Shrewsbury Business Park, Shrewsbury, SY2 SLG, 

England

67% 1 London Wall Place, London, EC2Y 5AU, England

95% Ing.Enrique Butty 220, Piso 12, Buenos Aires, C1001AFB, Argentina

161

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Schroders plc – Notes to the accounts continued

37. Subsidiaries and other related undertakings continued
(a) Related undertakings arising from the Company’s corporate structure continued
Other corporate related undertakings continued
Subsidiaries where the ownership is less than 100%

Share class

% Address

COS

9% Canon’s Court, 22 Victoria Street, Hamilton HM 12, Bermuda

Name

Bermuda

Safe Harbor Holdings Ltd.h

Cayman Islands

Schroder Adveq Asia Management I L.P.

Schroder Adveq Asia Management II L.P.

Schroder Adveq cPl Global Management L.P.

Schroder Adveq cPl Global Management II L.P. 

Schroder Adveq Europe Management II L.P.

Schroder Adveq Europe Management III L.P.

Schroder Adveq Europe Management IV A L.P.

Schroder Adveq Europe Management IV B L.P.

Schroder Adveq Technology Management III L.P.

Schroder Adveq Technology Management IV L.P.

Schroder Adveq Technology Management V L.P.

Schroder Adveq Technology Management VI L.P.

Schroder Adveq US Management I L.P

Schroder Adveq US Management II L.P.

Germany 

CM Komplementr 06-379 GmbH & Co KG

Guernsey 

SQ Revita I Limitedg

France

Terre et Mer Holding SAS

Schroders IDF IV UP

Jersey

AAF Management I L.P.

GPEP Management II L.P.

GPEP Management III L.P.

Schroder Adveq Asia Management III L.P.

Schroder Adveq Asia Management IV L.P.

Schroder Adveq Europe Co-Investments Mangement L.P.

Schroder Adveq Europe Management V L.P.

Schroder Adveq Europe Management VI L.P.

Schroder Adveq Global Management L.P.

Schroder Adveq Secondaries Management II L.P.

Schroder Adveq Technology Management VII L.P.

Schroder Adveq Technology Management VIII L.P.

Schroder Adveq US Management III L.P

Schroder Adveq US Management IV L.P.

TMC Management I L.P.

TMC Management II L.P.

Wilmersdorf Secondary Management L.P.

Luxembourg 

Schroder Property Services B.V.

Netherlands 

NEOS Finance Group B.V.

United States

Safe Harbor Re Holdings LLCc

162

Schroder Adveq Real Assets Harvested Resources Management L.P. PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

OS

OS

OS

OS

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

PI

OS

OS

75% Maples & Calder, PO Box 309 GT, Ugland House, South Church Street, 

George Town, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

65%

63%

88%

20%

88%

59%

70%

20%

30%

89%

65%

76%

87%

95% Taunustor 1, 60310, Frankfurt, Germany

50% PO Box 334, Regency Court, Glategny Esplanade, St Peter Port, 

Guernsey, GY1 3UF, Channel Islands

80% 60 rue Pierre Charron, 75008, Paris, France

70% 8-10 rue Lamennais, 75008, Paris, France

48% 26 New Street, St Helier, Jersey, JE2 3RA, Channel Islands

70%

70%

53%

70%

73%

73%

74%

71%

73%

53%

46%

78%

51%

73%

54%

49%

71%

70% 5 rue Höhenhof, L-1736 Senningerberg, Luxembourg

49% The Hofpoort Building, Hofplein 20, 21st Floor, 3032 AC Rotterdam, 

Netherlands

Class S, CPS

9% National Registered Agents, Inc., 160 Greentree Dr.Suite 101 Dover, 

Delaware, 19904, USA

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 201837. Subsidiaries and other related undertakings continued
(a) Related undertakings arising from the Company’s corporate structure continued
Other corporate related undertakings continued
Associates and joint ventures

Name

UK

Algonquin (Liverpool) Limited

Algonquin (York) Limited (In Liquidation)

Kellands (Bristol) Limitedf

Regrowth Holdings Limitedf

Nippon Life Schroders Asset Management Europe Limitedd

Robertson Baxter Limitedf 

RWC Partners Limitedd 

Whelan Wealth Management Limitedf

Belgium 

Algonquin Astrid

Algonquin BB

China

Bank of Communications Schroder Fund Management Company 
Limited

France 

Algonquin France Hotels Services 

JV Hotel La Villette SAS

Guernsey 

Share class

% Address 

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

OS

PS

OS

OS

OS

OS

20% 5 Elstree Gate, Elstree Way, Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, WD6 1JD, 

England

36% 6 Snow Hill, London, EC1A 2AY, England 

18% Quays Office Park, Conference Avenue, Portishead, Bristol, BS20 7LZ, 

England

18% New Barn Manor Farm Courtyard, Southam Lane Southam, 

Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL52 3PB, England 

33% 1 London Wall Place, London, EC2Y 5AU, England 

18% Beck House, Abbey Road, Shepley, Huddersfield, HD8 8EP, England 

41% Verde 4th Floor, 10 Bressenden Place, London, SW1E 5DH, England 

38% Wilkins Kennedy Llp, 5 Yeomans Court, Ware Road, Hertford, Herts, 

SG13 7HJ, England

33% Avenue Louise, 523 – 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium

33%

30% 2nd Floor Bank of Communications Tower, 188 Middle Yincheng 

Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai, 200120, China

36% 60 rue Pierre Charron, 75008, Paris, France

50%

Schroder Ventures Investments Limited

OS, R, D

50% PO Box 255, Trafalgar Court Les Banques, St Peter Port, Guernsey, 

GY1 3QL, Channel Islands

India 

Axis Asset Management Company Limitedi

Jersey 

Bracknell General Partner Limitede

Singapore 

Nippon Life Global Investors Singapore Limited 

Planar Investments Private Ltd

United States

OS

OS

OS

OS

25% 1st Floor, Axis House C-2 Wadia International Centre, Pandurang 

Budhkar Marg, Worli-Mumbai, 400025, India

50% PO Box 490, 40 Esplanade, St Helier, Jersey, JE4 9WB, Channel Islands

33% 138 Market Street, #22-03, CapitaGreen, Singapore, 048946, 

Singapore

26% 1 Phillip Street, #03-02 Royal One Phillip, 048692, Singapore

A10 Capital Parent Company LLC

COS

20% 1209 Orange Street, Wilmington, Delaware, 19801, USA 

Share class abbreviations
CS  
COS 
NCRPS 
CPS 
D   
OS 
PI   
PS  
R   

Capital shares. 
Common stock. 
Non-cumulative redeemable preference shares.
Convertible preference shares. 
Deferred shares.
Ordinary shares. 
Partnership interest. 
Promote shares. 
Redeemable preference shares.

Footnotes
a  Held directly by the Company. 
b  Dormant company. 
c  The Company also holds convertible loan notes, taking the Group’s  

effective holding to 65%. 

d  The Company holds ordinary B shares. 
e  The Company holds ordinary A shares.
f  Owned through Benchmark Capital Limited.
g  Owned through Secquaero Advisors AG. 
h  Owned through Safe Harbor Re Holdings LLC. 
i  Financial year end 31 March.

163

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Schroders plc – Notes to the accounts continued

37. Subsidiaries and other related undertakings continued
(b) Related undertakings arising from the Company’s interests in structured entities
The Company’s related undertakings also include funds in which it holds investments. These include fully and partially owned funds that are 
classified as subsidiaries. Due to the number of share classes or unit classes that can exist in these vehicles, a significant holding in a single share 
class or unit class is possible, without that undertaking being classified as a subsidiary or associate.

Fully owned subsidiaries

Fund Name

UK

Schroder Flexible Retirement Benefit Fund

Brazil

Schroder Fundo de Investimento Multimercado Low Vol

Canada

Schroder MyRetirement 2015 Fund

Schroder MyRetirement 2020 Fund

Schroder MyRetirement 2025 Fund

Schroder MyRetirement 2030 Fund

Schroder MyRetirement 2035 Fund

Schroder MyRetirement 2040 Fund

Schroder MyRetirement 2045 Fund

Schroder MyRetirement 2050 Fund

Schroder MyRetirement 2055 Fund

Schroder MyRetirement 2060 Fund

Schroder Target Date Transition Fund

Luxembourg

Schroder GAIA Helix

Schroder ISF Emerging Markets Equity Alpha

Schroder ISF European Sustainable Equity

Schroder ISF Global Disruption

Schroder Property FCP –FIS –Schroder Property German Residential Fund

Subsidiaries where the ownership is less than 100%

Fund Name

UK

Schroder Advanced Beta Global Equity Small and Mid Cap Fund

Schroder Advanced Beta Global Equity Value Fund

Schroder Diversified Growth Fund

Schroder Dynamic Multi-Asset Fund

Schroder Dynamic Planner Portfolio 3

Schroder Dynamic Planner Portfolio 4

Schroder Dynamic Planner Portfolio 5

Schroder Dynamic Planner Portfolio 6

Schroder Dynamic Planner Portfolio 7

Schroder Fusion Managed Defensive Fund

Schroder Global Emerging Markets Fund

Schroder Long Dated Corporate Bond Fund

Schroder Multi-Asset Total Return Fund

Schroder QEP Global Active Value Fund

Schroder QEP Global Emerging Markets Fund

Schroder QEP Global Emerging Markets Fund

Schroder Responsible Value UK Equity Fund

Schroder Responsible Value UK Equity Fund

Schroder Securitized Credit Fund Limited

Schroder Sustainable Multi-Factor Equity Fund

164

 Share/unit class

X Accumulation

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

I Accumulation

I Accumulation

I Accumulation

I Accumulation

B

 Share/unit class

X Accumulation

X Accumulation

I Accumulation

Z Accumulation

Z Accumulation

Z Accumulation

Z Accumulation

Z Accumulation

Z Accumulation

F Accumulation

A Accumulation

I Accumulation

X Accumulation

I Accumulation

I Accumulation

X Accumulation

I Accumulation

I Accumulation

–

X Accumulation

Holding in 
undertaking  
share/unit class

Total holding  
in undertaking  
via share/unit class

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

Holding in 
undertaking  
share/unit class

Total holding  
in undertaking  
via share/unit class

86%

50%

96%

61%

93%

65%

68%

82%

88%

57%

66%

76%

100%

92%

93%

89%

91%

91%

99%

70%

44%

50%

96%

53%

93%

62%

68%

82%

88%

57%

47%

47%

66%

39%

27%

62%

75%

75%

99%

70%

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 201837. Subsidiaries and other related undertakings continued
(b) Related undertakings arising from the Company’s interests in structured entities continued
Subsidiaries where the ownership is less than 100%

Fund Name

Australia

Schroder Real Return Fund

Brazil

Schroder Best Ideas FIA

Japan

Schroder YEN Target (Semi-Annual)

Luxembourg

Schroder Alternative Solutions Asian Long Term Value Fund

Schroder Alternative Solutions Argentine Bond Fund

Schroder Alternative Solutions Commodity Total Return Fund

Schroder GAIA II NGA Turnaround

Schroder ISF Dynamic Indian Income Bond

Schroder ISF European Large Cap Fund

Schroder ISF Global Credit Value

Schroder ISF Global Target Return

Schroder ISF Multi-Asset PIR Italia

Schroder ISF Multi-Asset Total Return

Schroder ISF QEP Global Equity Market Neutral

Schroder ISF QEP Global Equity Market Neutral

Schroder ISF QEP Global Equity Market Neutral

United States

Hartford Schroders Tax-Aware Bond ETF

Schroder Emerging Markets Small Cap Fund

Schroder Emerging Markets Small Cap Fund

Schroder Short Duration Bond Fund

Schroder Short Duration Bond Fund

Associates

Fund Name

UK

Schroder Fusion Portfolio 3

Schroder Global Multi-Factor Equity Fund

Brazil

Sicredi – FI Multimercado Elite Credito Privado LP

Japan

Schroder YEN Target (Annual)

Luxembourg

Schroder ISF European Alpha Focus

United States

 Share/unit class

W Distribution

–

–

I Accumulation

C Accumulation

I Accumulation

I Accumulation

I Accumulation

I Accumulation

I Accumulation

I Accumulation

C Accumulation

I Accumulation

I Accumulation GBP Hedge

I Accumulation

I Accumulation EUR Hedge

I Distribution

Investor Distribution

R6 Distribution

Investor Distribution

R6 Distribution

 Share/unit class

F Accumulation

X Accumulation

–

–

I Accumulation

Schroder Absolute Return Emerging Markets Debt Portfolio LP

Institutional Distribution

Holding in 
undertaking share/
unit class

Total holding  
in undertaking  
via share/unit 
class

33%

98%

70%

83%

98%

99%

100%

45%

67%

94%

72%

90%

85%

100%

100%

73%

46%

98%

94%

100%

98%

33%

98%

70%

81%

95%

89%

52%

42%

52%

93%

37%

90%

35%

59%

4%

0%

46%

1%

93%

1%

97%

Holding in 
undertaking share/
unit class

Total holding  
in undertaking  
via share/unit 
class

29%

58%

31%

33%

100%

22%

29%

37%

31%

33%

19%

22%

165

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Schroders plc – Notes to the accounts continued

37. Subsidiaries and other related undertakings continued
(b) Related undertakings arising from the Company’s interests in structured entities continued
Significant holdings in structured entities not classified as subsidiaries or associates

Fund Name

UK

Schroder Absolute Return Bond Fund

Schroder Advanced Beta Global Corporate Bond Fund

Schroder Advanced Beta Global Sovereign Bond Fund

Schroder All Maturities Corporate Bond Fund

Schroder European Fund

Schroder Global Equity Fund

Schroder Institutional Developing Markets Fund

Schroder Institutional Pacific Fund

Schroder Institutional UK Smaller Companies Fund

Schroder QEP Global Core Fund

Schroder QEP Global Core Fund

Schroder Sterling Broad Market Bond Fund

Schroder UK Mid 250 Fund

Schroder US Equity Income Maximiser

Cayman Islands

 Share/unit class

X Income

X Accumulation

X Accumulation

I Accumulation

I Income

I Accumulation

B Income

I Accumulation

X Income

I Accumulation

X Accumulation

I Accumulation

L Accumulation

L Accumulation

Musashi Smart Premia Fund (Exclusively for Qualified Institutional Investors with Re-Sale 
Restriction for the Japanese Investors)

Musashi Smart Premia Fund (Exclusively for Qualified Institutional Investors with Re-Sale 
Restriction for the Japanese Investors)

B

C

Schroder Advanced ILS Fund (Cayman) Limited

Management shares

Luxembourg

Schroder Alternative Solutions Agriculture Fund

Schroder Alternative Solutions Agriculture Fund

Schroder Alternative Solutions Commodity Total Return Fund

Schroder Alternative Solutions Commodity Total Return Fund

Schroder GAIA BlueTrend

Schroder GAIA Contour Tech Equity

Schroder ISF China A

Schroder ISF Emerging Europe

I Accumulation

I Accumulation GBP Hedged

I Accumulation EUR Hedged

I Accumulation GBP Hedged

C Accumulation CHF Hedged

C Accumulation GBP Hedged

I Accumulation

I Accumulation

Schroder ISF Emerging Markets Debt Absolute Return

I Accumulation EUR Hedged

Schroder ISF Emerging Markets Debt Absolute Return

Schroder ISF EURO High Yield

Schroder ISF Global Corporate Bond 

Schroder ISF Global Credit Income

Schroder ISF Global Diversified Growth

Schroder ISF Global Energy

Schroder ISF Global Gold

Schroder ISF Global Gold

Schroder ISF Global Multi-Asset Balanced

Schroder ISF Global Recovery

Schroder ISF Middle East

Schroder ISF Multi-Asset Total Return

Schroder ISF QEP Global Value Plus

Schroder ISF Securitised Credit

Schroder ISF Strategic Beta

Schroder ISF Swiss Equity Opportunities

Schroder Property FCP-FIS – Schroder Property Eurologistics Fund No.1 (A)

Schroder Property FCP-FIS – Schroder Property Eurologistics Fund No.1 (B)

166

I Accumulation

I Accumulation

I Accumulation

I Accumulation

I Accumulation GBP Hedged

I Accumulation

I Accumulation

I Accumulation EUR Hedged

I Accumulation CHF Hedged

I Accumulation

I Accumulation

I Accumulation EUR Hedged

I Accumulation

I Accumulation

I Accumulation

I Accumulation

B

B

Holding in 
undertaking share/
unit class

Total holding  
in undertaking  
via share/unit 
class

100%

29%

49%

50%

35%

47%

95%

39%

27%

36%

22%

70%

38%

98%

100%

100%

100%

100%

97%

75%

99%

43%

41%

36%

100%

100%

32%

100%

28%

100%

40%

100%

100%

99%

89%

31%

100%

99%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

15%

11%

19%

17%

3%

19%

11%

13%

13%

9%

4%

8%

6%

13%

1%

0%

0%

1%

0%

0%

8%

0%

0%

17%

0%

0%

9%

0%

7%

0%

1%

0%

1%

0%

0%

3%

0%

2%

3%

1%

3%

1%

1%

3%

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 201837. Subsidiaries and other related undertakings continued
(b) Related undertakings arising from the Company’s interests in structured entities continued
The registered offices for each of the related undertakings listed on page 164 to 166 and in the table above are reflected by country below:

UK
1 London Wall Place, London, EC2Y 5AU, England

Australia
Level 20, Angel Place, 123 Pitt Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia

Brazil
The registered office for the following related undertakings is Av. Presidente 
Wilson, nº 231, 11º andar, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Schroder Fundo de Investimento Multimercado Low Vol 
Schroder Best Ideas FIA

The registered office for the following related undertaking is Avenida Assis Brasil, 
3940, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil

Sicredi – FI Multimercado Elite Credito Privado LP

Canada
30 Adelaide Street, East Suite 1100, Toronto, Ontario, M5C 3G6, Canada

Cayman Islands
Maples Corporate Services Limited, Ugland House, PO Box 309, Grand Cayman, 
KY11-1104, Cayman Islands

Japan
1-1 Chuo-ku, Saitama City, Saitama Shintoshin Godo Choushya 1st Building, 
Saitama Prefecture, 330-9716, Japan

Luxembourg
The registered office for the Luxembourg related undertakings is 5 rue 
Höhenhof, L-1736 Senningerberg, Luxembourg, except for the following:

The registered office for the following related undertakings is 80, route d’Esch, 
L-1470 Luxembourg:

Schroder Property FCP-FIS – Schroder Property German Residential Fund

Schroder Property FCP-FIS – Schroder Property EuroLogistics Fund No.1 (A)

Schroder Property FCP-FIS – Schroder Property EuroLogistics Fund No.1 (B)

United States
The registered office for the United States related undertakings is 7 Bryant Park, 
New York, New York, 10018, USA, except for the following:

The registered office for the following related undertaking is 690 Lee Road, 
Wayne, Pennsylvania, 19087, USA

Hartford Schroders Tax-Aware Bond ETF

167

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Independent auditor’s report to 
the members of Schroders plc

Opinion
In our opinion, the financial statements of Schroders plc (the ‘Parent company’) and its subsidiaries (collectively, the ‘Group’):

 – give a true and fair view of the state of the Group’s and of the Parent company’s affairs as at 31 December 2018 and of the Group’s profit 

for the year then ended;

 – have been properly prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union  

(‘IFRS as adopted by the EU’); and

 – have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006, and, as regards the Group financial statements,  

Article 4 of the IAS Regulation.

What we have audited 
We have audited the financial statements of Schroders plc which comprise:

Group

Parent company

Consolidated income statement for the year ended 31 December 
2018

Schroders plc – Statement of financial position at 31 December 2018

Consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the year 
ended 31 December 2018

Schroders plc – Statement of changes in equity for the year ended 31 
December 2018

Consolidated statement of financial position at 31 December 2018

Consolidated statement of changes in equity for the year ended 31 
December 2018

Consolidated cash flow statement for the year ended 31 December 
2018

Notes to the accounts 1 to 28 and Presentation of the financial 
statements 

Schroders plc – Cash flow statement for the year ended 31 December 
2018

Schroders plc – Notes to the accounts 29 to 37

The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and IFRS as adopted by the EU and, as regards the 
Parent company financial statements, as applied in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act 2006.

Basis for opinion 
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (‘ISAs (UK)’) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under 
those standards are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report below. We 
are independent of the Group and Parent company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial 
statements in the UK, including the Financial Reporting Council’s (‘FRC’) Ethical Standard as applied to listed public interest entities, and we have 
fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements.

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

Conclusions relating to principal risks, going concern and viability statement
We have nothing to report in respect of the following information in the Annual Report, in relation to which the ISAs (UK) require us to report to 
you whether we have anything material to add or draw attention to:

 – the disclosures in the Annual Report set out on pages 40 to 47 that describe the principal risks and explain how they are being managed or 

mitigated;

 – the Directors’ confirmation set out on page 42 in the Annual Report that they have carried out a robust assessment of the principal risks facing 

the entity, including those that would threaten its business model, future performance, solvency or liquidity;

 – the Directors’ statement set out on page 93 in the Annual Report about whether they considered it appropriate to adopt the going concern 

basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements, and their identification of any material uncertainties to the entity’s ability to 
continue to do so over a period of at least twelve months from the date of approval of the financial statements;

 – whether the Directors’ statement in relation to going concern required under the Listing Rules of the UK Listing Authority (‘Listing Rules’) in 

accordance with Listing Rule 9.8.6R(3) is materially inconsistent with our knowledge obtained in the audit; or 

 – the Directors’ explanation set out on page 42 in the Annual Report as to how they have assessed the prospects of the entity, over what period 

they have done so and why they consider that period to be appropriate, and their statement as to whether they have a reasonable 
expectation that the entity will be able to continue in operation and meet its liabilities as they fall due over the period of their assessment, 
including any related disclosures drawing attention to any necessary qualifications or assumptions.

168

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Overview of our audit approach
First year audit considerations 
In preparation for our first year audit of the 31 December 2018 financial statements, we prepared a detailed transition plan. Our audit planning 
and transition commenced in May 2017 after we had confirmed our independence of the Group to the Audit and Risk Committee. Our transition 
activities included shadowing the former auditor PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (‘PwC’) at key meetings with management, including meetings of 
the Audit and Risk Committee. We reviewed PwC’s 2017 audit work papers and gained an understanding of their risk assessment and key 
judgments. 

In April 2018 we held an audit planning meeting with senior members of our key location teams in order to agree our first year audit approach. 
Members of Schroders management directly relevant to our audit also participated in parts of the meeting.

Our global audit team has deep knowledge of the wealth and asset management industry and has been involved in the audits of large 
international financial services companies. We obtained a specific understanding of the Group’s business, culture and operations, through 
review, enquiry, observation and visiting a number of the Group’s locations. 

This transition activity allowed us to gain an understanding of the Group’s key processes and controls over financial reporting. We then 
established our audit base and formalised our audit strategy for the 2018 Group audit. 

Key audit matters

 – Improper recognition of revenue

 – Improper recognition of cost of sales

Audit scope

 – The Group is comprised of over 200 legal entities domiciled in 30 countries.

 – We performed an audit of the complete financial information of six legal entities and audit procedures on specific 

balances for a further 24 legal entities.

 – The legal entities where we performed full or specific audit procedures accounted for 99% of profit before tax and 

exceptional items, 91% of revenue and 99% of total assets.

 – Certain of the Group’s processes over financial reporting are centralised in the finance operations hubs of London, 
Luxembourg, Singapore and Zurich and as a result, the majority of our testing was performed in these locations.

Materiality

 – Overall Group materiality of £38 million, which represents 5% of profit before tax and exceptional items.

169

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Independent auditor’s report to 
the members of Schroders plc continued

Key audit matters 
Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgment, were of most significance in our audit of the financial statements of the 
current period and include the most significant assessed risks of material misstatement (whether or not due to fraud) that we identified. These 
matters included those which had the greatest effect on: the overall audit strategy, the allocation of resources in the audit; and directing the 
efforts of the engagement team. These matters were addressed in the context of our audit of the financial statements as a whole, and in our 
opinion thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters.

Risk

Group only risk: 
Improper recognition of revenue (£2,626.4 million, 
2017: £2,511.7 million)

Refer to the Audit and Risk Committee report (page 62) and 
Note 2 of the Consolidated financial statements (page 102)

Schroders manages funds in numerous domiciles, which 
consist of many share classes. Schroders also manages 
segregated portfolios for a range of institutions and 
provides wealth management services. The inputs and 
calculation methodologies that drive the fees vary 
significantly across this population. In particular, 
performance fees and segregated accounts have a 
range of calculation methodologies due to the significant 
number of bespoke arrangements. For the carried 
interest arrangements, revenue is calculated manually.

The following are identified as the key risks or subjective 
areas of revenue recognition:

 – not all agreements in place have been identified and 

accounted for;

 – fee terms have not been correctly interpreted or 

entered into the fee calculation and billing systems; 

 – assets under management (‘AUM’) has not been 

properly attributed to fee agreements; 

 – errors in manually calculated revenues; and

 – inappropriate judgments are made by management 

in the calculation of carried interest.

There is also the risk that management may influence 
the recognition of revenue in order to meet market 
expectations or net operating revenue based targets.

The Group applied IFRS 15 – Revenue from contracts with 
customers (‘IFRS 15’) from 1 January 2018 and determined 
that there is no material impact on the way in which the 
Group recognises its revenues, with the exception of 
carried interest. 

The risk has neither increased nor decreased in the 
current year.

Our response to the risk

We have:

 – gained an understanding of the procedures and controls in place throughout 
the revenue process, both at Schroders, through walkthrough procedures, 
and at third party administrators, through review of independent controls 
assurance reports;

 – IT systems: tested the controls over the access to, and changes to, the 

systems underpinning the revenue process, including testing controls over 
the flow of data between systems for completeness and accuracy;

 – fee agreements: tested the controls over new and amended fee agreements. 

For a sample of fees, agreed the fee terms used in the calculation to 
investment management agreements (‘IMAs’), fee letters or fund 
prospectuses. Verified management’s interpretation of the calculation 
methodology as set out in the agreement and applied in the revenue 
systems;

 – calculation: tested automated controls over the arithmetical accuracy of a 

sample of fee calculations within the relevant systems; 

 – AUM: tested the controls in place for the calculation and verification of AUM 
used in the fee calculations. For a sample of fees, tested the completeness 
and accuracy of AUM included in the fee calculation systems to administrator 
reports or Schroders’ investment management systems;

 – billing: tested controls over the billing and cash management process. For a 

sample of fees, agreed the amounts recorded to the invoice sent to the client, 
as well as assessing the recoverability of debtors through subsequent cash 
receipt and inspection of the aged debtors report; 

 – carried interest: challenged management over the judgments and estimates 

used in the valuation of the carried interest receivable. For a sample of 
Schroder Adveq funds: agreed the inputs used in the carried interest 
calculations to third party sources and legal agreements; recalculated the 
value of the carried interest receivable; and traced the discounted carried 
interest income to the revenue recorded;

 – review of other information: inspected the global complaints register and 

operational incident log to identify errors in revenue; and

 – management override: in order to address the residual risk of management 

override we have performed enquiries of management, read minutes 
throughout the year and performed journal entry testing.

We performed full and specific scope audit procedures over this risk area in five 
locations, which covered 91% of the total revenue. Due to the centralised nature 
of the revenue process, the majority of our testing was performed in London 
and Luxembourg for Asset Management revenue and Zurich for Wealth 
Management revenue. 

Key observations communicated to the Schroders Audit and Risk Committee
All transactions tested have been recognised in accordance with the underlying agreements or other supporting documentation. Revenue has 
been materially recorded in accordance with IFRS 15. Based on the procedures performed, we have no matters to report in respect of revenue 
recognition.

170

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Risk

Group only risk: 
Improper recognition of cost of sales (£555.7 million, 
2017: £501.5 million)
Refer to the Audit and Risk Committee report (page 62) and 
Note 2 of the Consolidated financial statements (page 102)

Schroders has fee expense agreements in place with many 
parties. These expenses include; commissions, carried 
interest, external fund manager fees, and distribution fees 
payable to financial institutions, investment platform 
providers and financial advisers. The expenses are 
generally based on AUM.

The following are identified as the key risks or subjective 
areas in correctly recognising fee expense:

 – not all agreements in place have been identified and 

accounted for;

 – fee expense terms have not been correctly interpreted;

 – AUM has not been properly identified or attributed to 

clients or third parties with fee expense arrangements; 
and

 – inappropriate judgments are made by management in 

the calculation of carried interest.

There is also the risk that management may influence the 
recognition of cost of sales in order to meet market 
expectations or net operating revenue based targets. 

The risk has neither increased nor decreased in the 
current year.

Our response to the risk

We have:

 – gained an understanding of the procedures and controls in place throughout 

the cost of sales process, both at Schroders, through walkthrough procedures, 
and at third party administrators through review of independent controls 
assurance reports;

 – IT systems: tested the controls over the access to, and changes to, the systems 
underpinning the fee expense process, including testing controls over the flow 
of data between systems to test completeness and accuracy;

 – fee expense agreements: tested the controls over new agreements and 

amended fee expense agreements. For a sample of fee expenses, agreed the 
fee expense terms used in the calculation to IMAs, fee letters or rebate 
agreements. Verified management’s interpretation of the calculation 
methodology as set out in the agreement and applied in the fee expense 
systems;

 – calculation: tested automated controls over the arithmetical accuracy of a 

sample of fee expense calculations within the relevant systems;

 – AUM: tested the controls in place for the calculation and verification of AUM 

used in the fee expense calculations. For a sample of fee expenses, tested the 
completeness and accuracy of the AUM included in the calculation to Schroders’ 
transfer agency or investment management systems;

 – billing: tested controls over the cash management process. For a sample of fee 
expenses, agreed the amount recorded to the rebate statement sent to the 
client; 

 – carried interest: challenged management over the judgments used in the 

valuation of the carried interest liability. For a sample of Schroder Adveq funds, 
agreed the inputs used in the carried interest calculations to third party sources 
and legal agreements; recalculated the value of the carried interest liability; and 
traced the discounted carried interest expense to the cost of sales recorded;

 – review of other information: inspected the global complaints register and 

operational incident log to identify errors in fee expense and verify that fee 
expense errors have been appropriately addressed; and

 – management override: in order to address the residual risk of management 

override we have performed enquiries of management, read minutes 
throughout the year and performed journal entry testing.

We performed full and specific scope audit procedures over this risk area in 
London and Luxembourg, which covered 90% of total cost of sales. 

Key observations communicated to the Schroders Audit and Risk Committee
All transactions tested have been recognised in accordance with the underlying agreements or other supporting documentation. Cost of sales 
has been materially recorded in accordance with IAS 1 – Presentation of Financial Statements (‘IAS 1’). Based on the procedures performed, we 
have no matters to report in respect of cost of sales.

Prior year comparison
In the prior year, PwC identified ‘acquisitions accounting’ and ‘valuation and completeness of uncertain tax positions’ as key audit matters. We 
did not consider acquisitions accounting to be a key audit matter because the value of transactions entered into in 2018 was lower than in 2017. 
Based on our risk assessment procedures, we did not consider valuation and completeness of uncertain tax positions to be a key audit matter.

171

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Independent auditor’s report to 
the members of Schroders plc continued

Audit scope 
Tailoring the scope
Our assessment of audit risk, our evaluation of materiality and our allocation of performance materiality determine our audit scope for each 
entity within the Group. Taken together, this enables us to form an opinion on the consolidated financial statements. When assessing the level of 
work to be performed at each legal entity, we take into account size, risk profile, the organisation of the Group and effectiveness of Group-wide 
controls, changes in the business environment and other factors, such as recent Internal Audit results.

In assessing the risk of material misstatement to the Group financial statements, and to ensure we have adequate quantitative coverage of the 
significant accounts in the financial statements, we selected 30 legal entities within the following countries: UK, Channel Islands, Switzerland, 
Luxembourg, Singapore, USA, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Australia and Indonesia. 

Of the 30 legal entities selected, we performed an audit of the complete financial information of six legal entities (full scope entities), which were 
selected based on their size or risk characteristics. For the remaining 24 legal entities (specific scope entities), we performed audit procedures on 
specific accounts within that legal entity that we considered had the potential for the greatest impact on the significant accounts in the Group 
financial statements, either because of the size of these accounts or their risk profile. 

For the remaining entities, that together represent 1% of the Group’s profit before tax and exceptional items, we performed other Group 
procedures, including: analytical review, testing of consolidation journals and intercompany eliminations, tests of financial systems, centralised 
processes and controls, and foreign currency translation recalculations, to respond to any potential risks of material misstatement to the Group 
financial statements.

Our final coverage is summarised below: 

Profit before tax and exceptional items

Revenue

  Full scope components
  Specific scope components
  Other procedures

95%
4%
1%

  Full scope components
  Specific scope components
  Other procedures

68%
23%
9%

Involvement with overseas teams
In establishing our overall approach to the Group audit, we determined the type of work that needed to be undertaken at each of the legal 
entities by the Group audit team or by local auditors from other EY global network firms operating under our instruction. 

Schroders has centralised processes and controls over financial reporting within the finance operations hubs of London, Luxembourg, Singapore 
and Zurich. Our teams performed centralised testing in the finance hubs for certain accounts including revenue, costs of sales, administrative 
expenses, variable compensation, provisions and intercompany transactions.

For non-centralised processes, the audit work was performed by legal entity auditors. The Group audit team was responsible for the scope and 
direction of the audit process in each entity, interacted regularly with the local EY teams during each stage of the audit and reviewed key working 
papers. This, together with the additional procedures performed at Group level, and the centralised testing, gave us appropriate evidence for 
our opinion on the Group financial statements.

During 2018, the Senior Statutory Auditor, Julian Young, and other Group audit team members visited legal entities across seven countries, 
including each of the finance operations hubs. This allowed the Group team to gain a greater understanding of the business issues faced in each 
location, discuss the audit approach with the local team and any issues arising from their work, meet with local management, attend key 
meetings and review key audit working papers. The visits also promoted deeper engagement with our EY audit teams, ensuring that a consistent 
audit approach was adopted and that a high quality audit was executed. The countries visited were: Luxembourg, Switzerland, Singapore, 
Indonesia, Hong Kong, USA and Channel Islands. 

Prior year comparison
It is normal practice to set a lower performance materiality for a first year audit. This performance materiality was used in determining our 
scoping for each legal entity. 

172

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Our application of materiality 
We apply the concept of materiality in planning and performing the audit, in evaluating the effect of identified misstatements on the audit and in 
forming our audit opinion. 

Materiality
The magnitude of an omission or misstatement that, individually or in the aggregate, could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions 
of the users of the financial statements. Materiality provides a basis for determining the nature and extent of our audit procedures.

We determined materiality for the Group to be £38 million, which is 5% of profit before tax and exceptional items. We believe that profit before 
tax and exceptional items is the most relevant performance measure to the stakeholders of the entity. 

We determined materiality for the Parent company to be £46 million, which is 1% of net assets. The Parent company primarily holds the 
investments in Group entities and, therefore, net assets is considered to be the key focus for users of the financial statements. 

We calculated materiality at the planning stage of the audit and then during the course of our audit, we reassessed initial materiality based on 
31 December 2018 profit before tax and exceptional items, and adjusted our audit procedures accordingly. 

Performance materiality
The application of materiality at the individual account or balance level. It is set at an amount to reduce to an appropriately low level the probability that 
the aggregate of uncorrected and undetected misstatements exceeds materiality.

We have set performance materiality at 50% of our planning materiality, namely £19 million; this percentage is our normal practice for a first 
year audit. 

Audit work at entity level, for the purpose of obtaining audit coverage over significant financial statement accounts is undertaken based on a 
percentage of total performance materiality. The performance materiality set for each entity is based on the relative scale and risk of the entity 
to the Group as a whole and our assessment of the risk of misstatement at that entity. In the current year, the range of performance materiality 
allocated to individual entities was £3.9 million to £10.8 million.

Reporting threshold
An amount below which identified misstatements are considered as being clearly trivial.

We agreed with the Audit and Risk Committee that we would report to them all uncorrected audit differences in excess of £1.9 million, which is 
set at 5% of planning materiality, as well as differences below that threshold that, in our view, warranted reporting on qualitative grounds.

We evaluate any uncorrected misstatements against both the quantitative measures of materiality discussed above and in light of other relevant 
qualitative considerations in forming our opinion.

Prior year comparison
In 2017, the overall materiality for the Group was set at £40 million by PwC, which was 5% of profit before tax and exceptional items. 

Our responsibility for other information in the annual report
The other information comprises the information included in the annual report set out on pages 1 to 94 and 176 to 180, including the Strategic 
report, Governance and Shareholder information sections, other than the financial statements and our auditor’s report thereon. The Directors 
are responsible for the other information. 

Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in this report, 
we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. 

In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether 
the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to 
be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether 
there is a material misstatement in the financial statements or a material misstatement of the other information. If, based on the work we have 
performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of the other information, we are required to report that fact.

We have nothing to report in this regard.

In this context, we also have nothing to report in regard to our responsibility to specifically address the following items in the other information 
and to report as uncorrected material misstatements of the other information where we conclude that those items meet the following conditions:

 – Fair, balanced and understandable set out on page 94 – the statement given by the Directors that they consider the Annual Report and 
Accounts taken as a whole is fair, balanced and understandable and provides the information necessary for shareholders to assess the 
Group’s performance, business model and strategy, is materially inconsistent with our knowledge obtained in the audit; or 

 – Audit and Risk Committee reporting set out on pages 62 to 67 – the section describing the work of the Audit and Risk Committee does not 

appropriately address matters communicated by us to the Audit and Risk Committee or is materially inconsistent with our knowledge 
obtained in the audit; or

 – Directors’ statement of compliance with the UK Corporate Governance Code set out on page 55 – the parts of the Directors’ statement 

required under the Listing Rules relating to the Company’s compliance with the UK Corporate Governance Code containing provisions 
specified for review by the auditor in accordance with Listing Rule 9.8.10R(2) do not properly disclose a departure from a relevant provision 
of the UK Corporate Governance Code.

173

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsFinancial statements continued

Independent auditor’s report to 
the members of Schroders plc continued

Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006
In our opinion, the part of the Directors’ Remuneration report to be audited has been properly prepared in accordance with the 
Companies Act 2006.

In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit:

 – the information given in the Strategic report and the Directors’ report for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared 

is consistent with the financial statements; and 

 – the Strategic report and the Directors’ report have been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements.

Matters on which we are required to report by exception
In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the Group and the Parent company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, 
we have not identified material misstatements in the Strategic report or the Directors’ report.

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, 
in our opinion:

 – adequate accounting records have not been kept by the Parent company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from 

branches not visited by us; or

 – the Parent company financial statements and the part of the Directors’ Remuneration report to be audited are not in agreement with the 

accounting records and returns; or

 – certain disclosures of directors’ remuneration specified by law are not made; or

 – we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.

Responsibilities of directors
As explained more fully in the Statement of Directors’ responsibilities set out on page 94, the Directors are responsible for the preparation of 
the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the Directors determine is 
necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. 

In preparing the financial statements, the Directors are responsible for assessing the Group and Parent company’s ability to continue as a going 
concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the Directors either 
intend to liquidate the Group or the Parent company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements 
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, 
whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but 
is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements 
can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the 
economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. 

174

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Explanation as to what extent the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud 
The objectives of our audit, in respect to fraud, are; to identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements due to 
fraud; to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the assessed risks of material misstatement due to fraud, through designing and 
implementing appropriate responses; and to respond appropriately to fraud or suspected fraud identified during the audit. However, the 
primary responsibility for the prevention and detection of fraud rests with both those charged with governance of the Group and management. 

Our approach was as follows: 

 – We obtained an understanding of the legal and regulatory frameworks that are applicable to the Group and have a direct impact on the 

preparation of the financial statements. We determined that the most significant frameworks which are directly relevant to specific assertions 
in the financial statements are those that relate to the reporting framework (IFRS as adopted by the EU, the Companies Act 2006 and UK 
Corporate Governance Code) and relevant tax compliance regulations. In addition, we concluded that there are certain significant laws and 
regulations which may have an effect on the determination of the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements being the Listing Rules 
and relevant Prudential Regulation Authority (‘PRA’) and Financial Conduct Authority (‘FCA’) rules and regulations. 

 – We understood how Schroders plc is complying with those frameworks by making enquiries of senior management, including the Chief 

Financial Officer, General Counsel, Company Secretary, Head of Compliance, Head of Risk, Head of Internal Audit and the Chairman of the 
Audit and Risk Committee. We corroborated our understanding through our review of Board and Committee meeting minutes, papers 
provided to the Audit and Risk Committee and correspondence received from regulatory bodies.

 – We assessed the susceptibility of the Group’s financial statements to material misstatement, including how fraud might occur by meeting with 

management to understand where they considered there was susceptibility to fraud. We also considered performance targets and their 
potential influence on efforts made by management to manage or influence the perceptions of analysts. We considered the controls that the 
Group has established to address risks identified, or that otherwise prevent, deter and detect fraud; and how senior management monitors 
those controls. Where the risk was considered to be higher, we performed audit procedures to address each identified fraud risk.

 – Based on this understanding we designed our audit procedures to identify non-compliance with such laws and regulations identified in the 
paragraphs above. Our procedures involved: journal entry testing, with a focus on manual journals and journals indicating large or unusual 
transactions based on our understanding of the business; enquiries of senior management, including those at full and specific scope entities; 
and focused testing, as referred to in the key audit matters section above.

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the FRC’s website at https://www.frc.org.uk/
auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor’s report.

Other matters we are required to address 
 – We were appointed by the Parent company on 9 March 2018 to audit the financial statements for the year ending 31 December 2018 and 
subsequent financial periods. Our appointment as auditor was approved by shareholders at the Annual General Meeting on 26 April 2018. 

 – The period of total uninterrupted engagement including previous renewals and reappointments is one year.

 – The non-audit services prohibited by the FRC’s Ethical Standard were not provided to the Group or the Parent company and we remain 

independent of the Group and the Parent company in conducting the audit.

 – The audit opinion is consistent with the additional report to the Audit and Risk Committee.

Use of our report
This report is made solely to the company’s members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit 
work has been undertaken so that we might state to the company’s members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor’s 
report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the 
company and the company’s members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Julian Young (Senior statutory auditor)

for and on behalf of Ernst & Young LLP, Statutory Auditor 
London

6 March 2019

Notes
1.  The maintenance and integrity of the Schroders plc web site is the responsibility of the Directors; the work carried out by the auditors does not involve consideration 
of these matters and, accordingly, the auditors accept no responsibility for any changes that may have occurred to the financial statements since they were initially 
presented on the web site.

2.  Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.

175

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Financial statementsDividend confirmations are available electronically at investorcentre.
co.uk to those holders who have their payments mandated to their 
bank or building society accounts and who have expressed a 
preference for electronic communications.

The Company operates a Dividend Reinvestment Plan (DRIP), which 
provides shareholders with a way of increasing their shareholding in 
the Company by reinvesting their dividends. A copy of the DRIP terms 
and conditions and application form can be obtained from the 
Registrar.

Details of dividend payments can be found in the Directors’ report on 
page 92.

Schroders offers a service to shareholders in participating countries 
that enables dividends to be received in local currencies. You can 
check your eligibility and/or request a mandate form by contacting 
the Registrar.

Warning to shareholders
Companies are aware that their shareholders have received 
unsolicited telephone calls or correspondence concerning investment 
matters. These are typically from overseas-based ‘brokers’ who target 
UK shareholders, offering to sell them what often turn out to be 
worthless or high risk shares or investments. These operations are 
commonly known as ‘boiler rooms’. These ‘brokers’ can be very 
persistent and extremely persuasive.

Shareholders are advised to be wary of any unsolicited advice, offers 
to buy shares at a discount or offers of free company reports. If you 
receive any unsolicited investment advice:

 – Make sure you get the correct name of the person and organisation

 – Check that they are properly authorised by the FCA before getting 

involved by visiting register.fca.org.uk

 – Report the matter to the FCA by calling 0800 111 6768 or visiting 

fca.org.uk/consumers/report-scam-unauthorised-firm

 – Do not deal with any firm that you are unsure about

If you deal with an unauthorised firm, you will not be eligible to 
receive payment under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. 
The FCA provides a list of unauthorised firms of which it is aware, 
which can be accessed at fca.org.uk/consumers/unauthorised-firms-
individuals#list.

More detailed information on this or similar activity can be found 
on the FCA website at fca.org.uk/consumers/protect-yourself-scams

Capital gains tax
Capital gains tax values for the Company’s shares as at 31 March 1982 
and values relating to the disposal of the investment banking 
business in 2000 can be found on the Company’s website.

Shareholder information

Shareholder information

Schroders plc
Registered in England and Wales Company No. 3909886

Registered office 
1 London Wall Place London EC2Y 5AU 
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7658 6000 
Fax: +44 (0) 20 7658 6965 
Email: companysecretary@schroders.com 
schroders.com

Share Registrar 
Computershare Investor Services PLC 
The Pavilions 
Bridgwater Road 
Bristol BS99 6ZZ

UK Shareholder helpline: 
Freephone (UK callers only): 0800 923 1530 
International: +44 117 378 8170 
Fax: +44 (0) 370 703 6101 
investorcentre.co.uk

Financial calendar

Ex-dividend date

Record date

DRIP election date deadline

Annual General Meeting

Final dividend payment date

Half-yearly results announcement

Interim dividend paid*

* Date to be confirmed.

28 March 2019

29 March 2019

15 April 2019

2 May 2019

9 May 2019

1 August 2019

September 2019

Annual General Meeting
Our AGM will be held at 11.30 a.m. on 2 May 2019 at 1 London Wall 
Place, London EC2Y 5AU.

Investor Centre
Computershare is the Company’s share registrar. Investor Centre is 
Computershare’s free, secure, self-service website where shareholders 
can manage their interests online.

The website enables shareholders to:

 – View share balances

 – Change address details

 – View payment and tax information

 – Update payment instructions

 – Update communication instructions

Shareholders can register their email address at investorcentre.co.uk 
to be notified electronically of events such as AGMs, and can receive 
shareholder communications such as the Annual Report and Accounts 
and the Notice of Meeting online.

Enquiries and notifications concerning dividends, share certificates or 
transfers and address changes should be sent to the Registrar.

Dividends 
Paying dividends into a bank or building society account helps reduce 
the risk of fraud and will provide you with immediate access to your 
funds. Applications for an electronic mandate can be made by 
contacting the Registrar.

If your dividend is paid directly into your bank or building society 
account, you will receive an annual consolidated dividend 
confirmation, which will be sent to you in September each year at the 
time the interim dividend is paid. 

176

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Five year consolidated financial summary

Before exceptional items

Profit before tax

Tax

Profit after tax

After exceptional items

Profit before tax

Tax

Profit after tax

Pre-exceptional earnings per share:

Basic earnings per share1

Diluted earnings per share1

Post-exceptional earnings per share:

Basic earnings per share1

Diluted earnings per share1

Dividends:

Cost (£m)

Pence per share2

Total equity (£m)

2018
£m

761.2

(163.3)

597.9

2018
£m

649.9

(145.2)

504.7

2018
Pence

215.8

211.8

2018
Pence

183.1

179.7

2018

311.7

114.0

2017
£m

800.3

(171.6)

628.7

2017
£m

760.2

(165.8)

594.4

2017
Pence

226.9

222.4

2017
Pence

215.3

211.0

2017

267.6

98.0

2016
£m

644.7

(132.4)

512.3

2016
£m

618.1

(127.9)

490.2

2016
Pence

186.3

182.4

2016
Pence

178.3

174.5

2016

236.6

87.0

2015
£m

609.7

(126.3)

483.4

2015
£m

589.0

(121.6)

467.4

2015
Pence

176.9

172.2

2015
Pence

171.1

166.5

2015

226.3

83.0

2014
£m

565.2

(113.9)

451.3

2014
£m

517.1

(103.9)

413.2

2014
Pence

166.8

161.5

2014
Pence

152.7

147.8

2014

177.7

66.0

3,621.2

3,471.0

3,152.8

2,795.6

2,537.8

Net assets per share (pence)3

1,282

1,229

1,115

990

898

Group employees at year end 31 December

United Kingdom

Europe, Middle East and Africa

Americas

Asia Pacific

2018
Number

2,798

873

369

999

2017
Number

2,535

822

353

909

2016
Number

2,264

716

331

834

2015
Number

1,988

686

321

789

2014
Number

1,889

628

278

761

5,039

4,619

4,145

3,784

3,556

1.  See note 6 for the basis of this calculation.
2.  Dividends per share are those amounts approved by the shareholders to be paid within the year on a per share basis to the shareholders on the register at the 

specified dates.

3.  Net assets per share are calculated by using the actual number of shares in issue at the year end date (see note 20).

Exchange rates – closing 31 December

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

Sterling:

Euro

US dollar

Swiss franc

Australian dollar

Hong Kong dollar

Japanese yen

Singaporean dollar

1.11

1.27

1.26

1.81

9.97

139.73

1.74

1.13

1.35

1.32

1.73

10.57

152.39

1.81

1.17

1.24

1.26

1.71

9.58

144.12

1.79

1.36

1.47

1.48

2.03

11.42

177.30

2.09

1.29

1.56

1.55

1.91

12.09

186.95

2.07

Exchange rates – average

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

Sterling:

Euro

US dollar

Swiss franc

Australian dollar

Hong Kong dollar

Japanese yen

Singaporean dollar

1.13

1.33

1.30

1.78

10.44

147.17

1.80

1.15

1.30

1.27

1.69

10.10

145.42

1.79

1.23

1.36

1.34

1.83

10.52

149.31

1.88

1.38

1.53

1.48

2.04

11.84

184.79

2.10

1.24

1.65

1.51

1.83

12.78

175.15

2.09

177

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Shareholder informationShareholder information continued

Glossary

Alternative performance measures
An alternative performance measure (APM) is a financial measure 
of historical or future financial performance, financial position, or 
cash flows, other than a financial measure defined or specified in 
the applicable financial reporting framework. Certain of the 
Group’s APMs exclude exceptional items which are defined in note 
1(b) and presented separately in the Consolidated income 
statement. The Group’s APMs are defined below.

Annualised net new revenue
The net operating revenue that would be earned over a one year 
timeframe if the net new business was all transacted on the same 
day and there were no market movements or other changes to 
assets under management or fee rates over that year. It is 
calculated as gross new funds from clients multiplied by the 
applicable net operating revenue margin for each flow, less gross 
funds withdrawn multiplied by the applicable net operating 
revenue margin for each flow. This measure provides additional 
information to better assess the impact of net new business on 
the Group’s net operating revenue.

Basic or diluted earnings per share before exceptional items
Profit after tax but before exceptional items divided by the 
relevant weighted average number of shares (see note 6). The 
presentation of earnings per share before exceptional items 
provides transparency of recurring revenue and expenditure to 
aid understanding of the financial performance of the Group.

Payout ratio
The total dividend per share in respect of the year (see note 7) 
divided by the pre-exceptional basic earnings per share. 

Profit before tax and exceptional items
Profit before tax but excluding exceptional items. This 
presentation provides transparency of recurring revenue and 
expenditure to aid understanding of the financial performance of 
the Group.

Ratio of total costs to net income
Total Group costs before exceptional items divided by net income 
before exceptional items. A 65% ratio is targeted to ensure costs 
are aligned with net income, although we recognise that in 
weaker markets the ratio may be higher than our long-term 
target.

Total compensation ratio
Pre-exceptional compensation costs (see note 4) divided by 
pre-exceptional net income. By targeting a total compensation 
ratio of 45 to 49%, depending upon market conditions, we align 
the interests of shareholders and employees.

Active management
The management of investments based on active decision-making 
rather than with the objective of replicating the return of an index.

AIFMD
The Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive was 
implemented in the UK in July 2013 and is a regulatory framework for 
alternative investment fund managers, including managers of hedge 
funds, private equity firms and investment trusts. 

Alpha
Excess return over market returns relative to a market benchmark.

Assets under administration (AUA)
Assets advised by the Best Practice and Evolution Wealth Independent 
Financial Adviser (IFA) networks where Schroders solely provides 
administrative support, including the Enable Client Relationship 
System and regulatory compliance services, but where the IFAs are 
independent from the Schroders Group.

178

Assets under management (AUM)
The aggregate value of assets managed on behalf of clients. In Wealth 
Management this includes assets where Schroders provides advisory 
services but the investment decisions are made by the client. AUM 
also includes assets held in custody where the client independently 
makes investment decisions, whether it is through direct contact with 
Schroders or via the Fusion wealth platform.

For Schroder Adveq, the aggregate value of assets managed is based 
on committed funds by clients. This is changed to the lower of 
committed funds and net asset value, typically after seven years from 
the initial investment, in line with the fee basis.

Assets under management and administration (AUMA)
The combined value of AUA and AUM.

Basis point (bps)
One one-hundredth of a percentage point (0.01%).

BEAR
Banking Executive Accountability Regime. New regulations in Australia 
designed to make senior executives more accountable for the actions 
and outcomes of their organisation.

Beta
Market returns.

Carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e)
A standard unit for measuring carbon footprints. It enables the 
impact of different greenhouse gas emissions on global warming 
to be expressed using an equivalent amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) 
as a reference.

CDP
Formerly known as the Carbon Disclosure Project.

Carried interest
Carried interest is similar to the performance fees we earn on our 
core business, but is part of private asset and alternative fee 
structures.

Client investment performance
Client investment performance is a measure of how investments are 
performing relative to a benchmark or other comparator. It is 
calculated internally by Schroders to give shareholders and financial 
analysts general guidance on how our AUM is performing. The data is 
aggregated and is intended to provide information for comparison to 
prior reporting periods only. It is not intended for clients or potential 
clients investing in our products. All calculations for investment 
performance are made gross of fees with the exception of those for 
which the stated comparator is a net of fees competitor ranking. 
When a product’s investment performance is disclosed in product or 
client documentation it is specific to the strategy or product: for 
Intermediary clients, performance will be shown net of fees at the 
relevant fund share-class level; for Institutional clients, it will typically 
be shown gross of fees with a fee schedule for the strategy supplied.

The calculation includes 100% of internally-managed Asset 
Management assets, excluding Liability-Driven Investments (LDI) 
strategies, that have a complete track record over the respective 
reporting period. Assets held in LDI strategies, which currently 
amount to £26.1 billion, are excluded as these are not seeking to 
outperform a stated objective but to match the liability profile of 
pension funds. Assets managed by third parties are excluded and 
primarily comprise the Luxembourg-domiciled GAIA fund range of 
£3.4 billion and legacy private equity assets of £1.7 billion. We do not 
calculate investment performance of hotels managed by Algonquin 
(AUM of £1.7 billion).

Performance is calculated relative to the relevant stated comparator 
for each strategy as below. These fall into one of four categories, the 
percentages for each of which refer to the three year calculation:

 – For 78% of assets included in the calculation, the comparator is the 

stated benchmark.

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018 – If the stated comparator is to competitor rankings, the relative 

position of the fund to its peer group on a like-for-like basis is used 
to calculate performance. This applies to 5% of assets in the 
calculation.

 – Assets for which the stated comparator is an absolute return target 
are measured against that absolute target. This applies to 10% of 
assets in the calculation.

 – Assets with no stated objective are measured against a cash return, 

if applicable. This applies to 7% of assets in the calculation.

Clients
Within our asset management business we work with institutional 
clients, including pensions funds, insurance companies and sovereign 
wealth funds, as well as intermediaries, including financial advisers, 
private wealth managers, distributors and online platforms. 

We also provide a range of wealth management services to private 
clients, family offices and charities.

We are increasingly focused on building closer relationships with the 
end client, whose money is invested with us, often via an intermediary 
or institution.

CMA
Competition and Markets Authority.

Compensation cost
Total cost of employee benefits.

Defined benefit (DB) pension scheme
A pension benefit where the employer has an obligation to provide 
participating employees with pension payments that represent a 
specified percentage of their salary for each year of service.

Defined contribution (DC) pension scheme
A pension benefit where the employer’s contribution to an employee’s 
pension is measured as, and limited to, a specified amount, usually a 
percentage of salary. The value of the pension pot can go up or down 
depending on how the investments perform.

DEFRA
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Employee benefit trust
A type of discretionary trust established to hold cash or other assets 
for the benefit of employees, such as to satisfy share awards.

EPS
Earnings per share.

ESG
Environmental, social and governance.

EU27
The 27 countries within the European Union involved with negotiating 
with the UK on Brexit.

Family offices
These manage the financial and investment side of ultra high net 
worth individuals or families.

FCA
Financial Conduct Authority of the United Kingdom.

Fitch Investment Management Quality Rating
A forward-looking, relative assessment of an investment manager’s 
investment capabilities and the strength of its operational platform. 
Ratings have five key pillars: investment process; investment 
resources; risk management; investment performance and the 
company, including client servicing. Ratings are assigned on a five 
tiered scale from ‘Excellent’ to ‘Weak’. Excellent indicates that the 
investment manager has extremely strong investment capabilities 
and operational characteristics.

FRC
Financial Reporting Council.

GAIA
Global Alternative Investor Access.

GDPR
General Data Protection Regulation. A legal framework that sets 
guidelines for the collection and procession of personal information 
of individuals within the EU.

GHG Protocol
Greenhouse gas protocol, a comprehensive global standardised 
frameworks to measure and manage greenhouse gas emissions.

GCC
Group Capital Committee.

GMC
Group Management Committee.

GOC
Global Operations Committee.

GRC
Group Risk Committee.

ICAAP
Internal Capital Adequacy Assessment Process.

IFRS
International Financial Reporting Standards.

ILAAP
Internal Liquidity Adequacy Assessment Process.

Institutional sales channel and clients
Institutional clients, such as pension funds, insurance companies and 
government funds, come to Schroders through their own adviser or 
consultant. Assignments are typically highly specific and may be 
combined with their other investments in a range of asset classes and 
with other managers they employ.

Intermediary sales channel and clients
Schroders works with intermediaries such as banks, insurance 
companies, platforms and independent financial advisers. 
Intermediary assets under management included branded funds and 
sub-advisory mandates.

Investment capital
Investible equity from shareholders held in excess of operating 
requirements. It is managed with the aim of achieving a low volatility 
return. It is mainly held in cash, government and government- 
guaranteed bonds, investment grade corporate bonds and Schroders’ 
funds. Investment capital is also used to help support the organic 
development of existing and new business strategies and to respond 
to other investment and growth opportunities as they arise, such as 
acquisitions that will accelerate the development of the business.

Investment returns
The increase in AUM attributable to investment performance, market 
movements and foreign exchange.

LGBT+
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender and other groups of sexual 
and gender minorities.

Liability-driven investment (LDI)
A form of investing where the main goal is to gain and maintain 
sufficient assets to meet known liabilities, both current and future. 
This form of investment is most prominent for defined benefit 
pension schemes.

Life Company
Schroder Pension Management Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary, 
which provides investment products through a life assurance 
wrapper.

179

Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018Shareholder informationShareholder information continued

Glossary

MiFID II
The second iteration of the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive. 
MiFID II is an EU directive which standardises regulation for 
investment services throughout the European Economic Area.

Regulatory surplus capital
Total equity less the Group’s overall regulatory capital requirement 
and regulatory deductions, in accordance with the EU Capital 
Requirements Regulation as set out in the Group’s Pillar 3 disclosures.

MRTs 
Material risk takers. Employees deemed to be material risk takers 
under one or more of the regulatory regimes that applies to the 
Group and its subsidiaries, such as the UCITS Directive or AIFMD.

Net income
A sub-total comprising net operating revenue, net gains on financial 
instruments and other income and share of profit of associates and 
joint ventures.

Net new business
New funds from clients less funds withdrawn by clients. This is 
also described as net inflows (when positive) or net outflows (when 
negative). New funds and funds withdrawn are calculated as at 
31 December 2018 on the basis of actual funding provided 
or withdrawn.

Net operating revenue
A sub-total consisting of revenue less cost of sales as defined in note 2 
of the financial statements.

Net operating revenue margins
Asset Management and/or Wealth Management net operating 
revenue divided by the relevant average AUM.

Passive products
Products whose stated objective is to replicate the return of an index.

Pillar 1
The minimum capital requirements in relation to credit risk, 
operational risk and market risk taken by the Group as principal.

Pillar 2
The requirement for companies to assess the level of additional 
capital held against risks not covered in Pillar 1.

Pillar 3 
This complements Pillar 1 and Pillar 2 with the aim of improving 
market discipline by requiring companies to publish certain details 
of their risks, capital and risk management. Schroders’ Pillar 3 
disclosures are available at schroders.com/ir.

Platforms
Platforms in the UK savings market offer a range of investment 
products such as unit trusts, Individual Saving Accounts (ISAs), 
unit-linked life and pension bonds and Self-Invested Personal 
Pensions (SIPPs) to facilitate investment in many funds from different 
managers through one portal.

PRA
Prudential Regulation Authority.

PRIIPs
Packaged Retail Investment and Insurance-based Products. PRIIPs 
make up a broad category of financial assets that are regularly 
provided to consumers in the EU. It covers all packaged, publicly 
marketed financial products that have exposure to underlying assets, 
provide a return over time and have an element of risk.

Principal shareholder group 
Four private trustee companies, a number of individuals and a charity 
which, directly or indirectly, are shareholders in Schroders plc and are 
parties to the Relationship Agreement. In aggregate these parties 
own 47.93% of the ordinary shares of Schroders plc.

RCA
Risk and Control Assessment.

Regulatory capital
The amount of risk capital set by legislation or local regulators, 
which companies must hold against any difficulties such as market 
or credit risks.

180

Seed and co-investment capital
Seed capital comprises initial investment put into a fund by the 
business to allow it to develop a performance track record before it is 
marketed to potential clients. Co-investment comprises investment 
made alongside our clients.

SM&CR
Senior Managers and Certification Regime. New FCA regulation which 
aims to strengthen market integrity by making senior individuals 
more accountable for their conduct and competence.

Total Capital Requirement
The requirement to hold the sum of Pillar 1 and Pillar 2A capital 
requirements. Pillar 2A capital requirements are supplementary 
requirements for those risk categories not captured by Pillar 1, 
depending on specific circumstances of a company, as set out 
by the PRA.

Total dividend per share
Unless otherwise stated, this is the total dividend in respect of the 
year, comprised of the interim dividend and the proposed final 
dividend. This differs from the IFRS dividend which is comprised of 
the prior year final and current year interim dividends declared and 
paid during the year.

Total equity 
Total assets less total liabilities.

UCITS
Undertakings for the Collective Investment in Transferable Securities. 
UCITS is a regulatory framework of the European Commission that 
creates a harmonised regime throughout Europe for the 
management and sale of investment funds.

UCITS / AIF MRTs
Employees deemed to be material risk takers under the UCITS 
Directive or AIFMD.

UK Stewardship Code
A set of principles or guidelines released in 2010 by the Financial 
Reporting Council directed at institutional investors who hold voting 
rights in United Kingdom companies.

UN PRI
The United Nations-supported Principles for Responsible Investment 
Initiative is an international network of investors working together 
to implement the six Principles for Responsible Investment. Its goal 
is to understand the implications of sustainability for investors and 
support signatories to incorporate these issues into their investment 
decision making and ownership practices.

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Schroders Annual Report and Accounts 2018