FORM 6-K
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Report of Foreign Issuer
Pursuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16 of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the month JULY 1998
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REUTERS GROUP PLC
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(Translation of registrant's name into English)
85 FLEET STREET, LONDON EC4P 4AJ, ENGLAND
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(Address of principal executive offices)
[Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual
reports under cover Form 20-F or Form 40-F.]
Form 20-F _X_ Form 40-F __
[Indicate by check mark whether the registrant by furnishing the
information contained in this Form is also thereby furnishing the information to
the Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of
1934.]
Yes ___ No _X_
THIS REPORT IS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE IN THE PROSPECTUSES CONTAINED IN POST
EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT NO. 33-16927 ON FORM S-8,
POST-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT NO. 33-69694 ON FORM
F-3, POST-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT NO. 33-90398 ON
FORM S-8 AND POST-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT NO.
333-7374 ON FORM F-3 FILED BY THE REGISTRANT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
REUTERS GROUP PLC
--------------------------------
(Registrant)
Dated: July 23, 1998 By: /s/ Nancy C. Gardner
----------------------------
Nancy C. Gardner
Attorney-in-Fact
REUTERS
INTERNATIONAL NEWS RELEASE
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REUTERS GROUP PLC
INTERIM STATEMENT
For the six months ended 30 June 1998
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REUTERS GROUP PLC
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE INTERIM RESULTS
FOR THE SIX MONTHS TO 30 JUNE 1998
22 July 1998 No. 15/98
* Revenue up 3% (8% ex-currency).
* Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation up 4%
(12% ex-currency).
* Operating profit up 4% (20% ex-currency).
* Operating margin up to 19.1% from 18.9%.
* Pre-tax profit (pound)294 million compared with a restated (pound)303 million
last year, an increase of 9% excluding currency. Pre-tax profit reflects fall in
interest earnings of (pound)25 million due to (pound)1.5 billion capital
repayment earlier in the year.
* Pre-tax margin 20.2% against 21.5% reflecting (pound)1.5 billion (US$2.5
billion) cash returned to shareholders.
* Earnings per ordinary share up 8% at 13.3p (earnings per American Depositary
Share (ADS) US$1.33).
* Interim dividend up 10% to 3.4p.
* Chief Executive Peter Job said: "We continue to advance despite adverse
conditions in many markets. The business climate continues to be extremely
challenging. The fall-out from the financial crisis in Asia has begun to spread
to other time-zones as Japanese clients scale back their overseas operations. We
are also seeing retrenchment by European-based banks in the United States.
Instinet continues to face tough competition in the American market.
Nevertheless, we currently expect a satisfactory underlying performance for the
full year."
-1-
SUMMARY OF RESULTS
The following is a summary of the unaudited results of Reuters Group PLC (NASDAQ
symbol: RTRSY) for the six months to 30 June 1998:
SIX MONTHS % CHANGE SIX MONTHS
TO 30 JUNE ACTUAL COMPARABLE TO 30 JUNE
1998 1997* RATES OF RATES OF 1998 1997*
(POUND)M (POUND)M EXCHANGE EXCHANGE US$M US$M
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Revenue 1,453 1,409 3% 8% 2,426 2,352
Costs excluding
goodwill
amortisation 1,150 1,112 3% 6% 1,921 1,856
Goodwill amortisation 25 30 (19%) (19%) 41 51
Operating profit 278 267 4% 20% 464 445
Operating margin 19.1% 18.9% 19.1% 18.9%
Net interest receivable 11 36 (70%) (70%) 18 60
Profit before taxation 294 303 (3%) 9% 491 505
Tax rate 33.6% 34.1% 33.6% 34.1%
Earnings per
ordinary share 13.3p 12.3p 8% 13.3p 12.3p
Earnings per ADS US$1.33 US$1.23 8% US$1.33 US$1.23
Dividend per
ordinary share:
Interim 3.4p 3.1p 10% 3.4p 3.1p
Number of ordinary
shares ranking for
dividend (millions) 1,409 1,623 1,409 1,623
Note: This summary is taken from and should be read with the attached full
statement and notes. The dividend is payable on 8 September 1998 to ordinary
shareholders on the register at 7 August 1998 and on 14 September 1998 to ADS
holders on the register at 7 August 1998. For convenience the US dollar
equivalents for both years have been converted throughout this news release at
US$1.67 = (pound)1, a rate prevailing on 30 June 1998.
Operating profit now includes amortisation of goodwill. This presentational
change has been introduced since the 1997 results were published.
This is the first interim statement of Reuters Group PLC following the capital
reorganisation in February 1998. For further details see note 1.
* June 1997 figures restated following implementation of UK Financial Reporting
Standard 10 (FRS10).
-2-
STATEMENT
The underlying business showed steady growth compared with the same period last
year but the strength of sterling held back both reported revenue and operating
profit.
Revenue at (pound)1,453 million (US$2,426 million) increased by (pound)44
million (US$74 million) or 3% at current exchange rates and by 8% at comparable
exchange rates. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation
(EBITDA) grew by 4% at actual rates and by 12% at comparable rates. Depreciation
was up (pound)13 million (US$21 million) because of the trend of higher capital
expenditure in recent years although capital expenditure was lower in the first
six months of 1998. Goodwill amortisation was (pound)25 million (US$41 million)
compared with (pound)30 million (US$51 million) in the first half of 1997. As
expected, incremental costs of the Millennium and Euro Programmes grew to
(pound)14 million (US$23 million) in the first half compared with (pound)2
million (US$3 million) in the same period last year. Operating profit at
(pound)278 million (US$464 million) grew by 4% at actual rates and by 20% at
comparable rates. Goodwill amortisation costs are now charged against operating
profit. Excluding these costs, operating profit grew 15% at comparable rates.
Net interest receivable declined 70% to (pound)11 million (US$18 million)
reflecting four months' worth of net borrowing following the return of
(pound)1.5 billion (US$2.5 billion) to shareholders in February. Pre-tax profit
at (pound)294 million (US$491 million) fell by 3% but rose by 9% at comparable
exchange rates. The effect of the return of capital was broadly neutral on
earnings per share, which rose 8% compared to the first half of 1997 from 12.3p
to 13.3p. Amortisation of goodwill reduced earnings per share by 1.7p in the
first half of 1998 and by 1.9p in the first half of 1997.
The effective tax rate for the half year is 33.6%, down from the 1997 full year
effective rate of 37.7%. When applied to profit before goodwill amortisation and
excluding the taxes relating to the return of capital to shareholders charged in
1997, the estimated effective tax rate for 1998 is 31.0%, the same as in 1997.
The interim dividend of 3.4p rose by 10% from 3.1p.
The capital reorganisation which returned (pound)1.5 billion (US$2.5 billion) to
shareholders was successfully concluded in February. Excluding this return we
saw a net cash inflow of (pound)35 million (US$59 million) during the half year
compared with an inflow of (pound)71 million (US$119 million) in the
corresponding period last year. The decline of (pound)36 million (US$60 million)
reflected lower net interest received and increased tax payments partly offset
by lower capital expenditure. Net debt on the balance sheet at 30 June 1998
amounted to (pound)157 million (US$263 million).
Capital expenditure in the first half was (pound)135 million (US$225 million),
down (pound)19 million (US$32 million) on the first half of last year.
Expenditure on subscriber equipment was broadly in line with the first half of
last year but infrastructure spending required for the 3000 series fell
reflecting heavy investment in capacity in the first half of last year.
Staff numbers at 30 June 1998 totalled 16,699, an increase of 580 since the year
end, including 92 added due to acquisitions. Excluding acquisitions, the
underlying growth in staff numbers was 3%.
At the end of the first half, the sterling trade weighted index was 107.0
compared to 102.1 at 30 June 1997. The index averaged 106.0 during the first
half of 1998 compared with 103.1 during the second half of 1997. Currency
hedging gains in the first half were (pound)28 million (US$46 million) compared
with gains of (pound)22 million (US$36 million) in the first half of 1997.
Total information products revenue grew 9% at comparable rates. Recurring
revenue grew by 9% at comparable rates. Sales of the 3000 series now total
56,800 of which nearly 38,000 have been installed.
-3-
Approximately 30% of the 3000 series accesses installed this year were new
installations and 70% were upgrades. Accesses sold but awaiting installation
increased by 2,900 in the first half reflecting client decisions to await
Millennium and Euro versions of the 3000 product range. Reuters Plus, a product
which provides more extensive US equities fundamental and historical data, was
launched in May. Outright sales revenue grew 10% at comparable rates reflecting
strong growth in demand for risk management systems, particularly in Europe.
Transaction products revenue grew 8% at comparable rates. Instinet revenue grew
by 13% at comparable rates. Instinet's international revenue continued its
recent strong growth (up 88%) although off a relatively low base. The volume of
shares traded on the Instinet system in the US grew more slowly in the first
half of 1998 than the first half of 1997. Dealing revenue grew by 4% in the
first half reflecting steady growth in transaction volumes on our Dealing 2000-2
system partly offset by a modest reduction in the average fee per trade.
Installed accesses rose by 17% year-on-year to 457,000 from 390,000 at 30 June
1997. Over half the growth came from the promising new lower tier product line
which provides information to financial customers outside their trading floor.
Business performance in Europe improved in the first half with revenue growth of
8% in underlying terms reflecting good order flows in 1997. Underlying margins
improved as contribution grew 14% at comparable rates.
In Asia revenue grew more slowly as expected with revenue up 5% at comparable
rates and contribution up 6%. Trading conditions in most of Asia continue to be
poor partly offset by a more encouraging situation in Japan, following recent
regulatory changes in the financial sector.
Reuters America revenue grew 5% at comparable rates. Increased infrastructure
costs to support new domestic and enhanced international services caused profits
to fall 22% at comparable rates.
Instinet's contribution declined as costs increased at a faster rate as a result
of continuing high levels of installations, network and central systems capacity
upgrades associated with changes in US trading rules as well as investment in
new areas.
TIBCO revenue increased by 3% in the first half at comparable rates. Continued
investment in new product development, additional expenditure on customer
support and the timing of contract completions affected profits but should
benefit the second half of the year.
Chief Executive Peter Job said: "We continue to advance despite adverse
conditions in many markets. The business climate continues to be extremely
challenging. The fall-out from the financial crisis in Asia has begun to spread
to other time-zones as Japanese clients scale back their overseas operations. We
are also seeing retrenchment by European-based banks in the United States.
Instinet continues to face tough competition in the American market.
Nevertheless, we currently expect a satisfactory underlying performance for the
full year."
END
This news release may be deemed to include forward-looking statements within the
meaning of the US securities laws. For a discussion of factors that could affect
future results, reference should be made to the Cautionary Statements included
in the Review of Interim Results on pages 20-23 of this International News
Release.
Copies of this news release will be available to the public at Reuters Group
PLC, 85 Fleet Street, London EC4P 4AJ and on the World Wide Web at
http://www.reuters.com
REUTERS AND THE DOTTED AND SPHERE LOGOS ARE THE HOUSE TRADE MARKS OF REUTERS
LIMITED.
-4-
REVENUE ANALYSIS - SECOND QUARTER 1998
THREE MONTHS TO % CHANGE % CHANGE THREE MONTHS TO
30 JUNE (ACTUAL (COMPARABLE 30 JUNE
1998 1997 RATES OF RATES OF 1998 1997
(POUND)M (POUND)M EXCHANGE) EXCHANGE) US$M US$M
REVENUE ANALYSIS BY GEOGRAPHY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Europe, Middle East
and Africa 386 367 5% 10% 645 614
Asia/Pacific 117 122 (4%) 7% 195 204
The Americas 113 109 4% 6% 189 182
Instinet 107 95 12% 15% 176 158
TIBCO 15 17 (5%) (3%) 27 28
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TOTAL 738 710 4% 9% 1,232 1,186
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REVENUE ANALYSIS BY PRODUCT
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Information products
Recurring 423 410 3% 9% 708 685
Outright 49 43 14% 25% 81 71
472 453 4% 10% 789 756
Transaction products
Instinet 107 95 12% 15% 176 158
Other transaction
products 110 111 (1%) 4% 185 186
217 206 5% 9% 361 344
Media and Professional
products 49 51 (5%) (2%) 82 86
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TOTAL 738 710 4% 9% 1,232 1,186
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-5-
REVENUE ANALYSIS - SIX MONTHS TO 30 JUNE 1998
SIX MONTHS TO % CHANGE % CHANGE SIX MONTHS TO
30 JUNE (ACTUAL (COMPARABLE 30 JUNE
1998 1997 RATES OF RATES OF 1998 1997
(POUND)M (POUND)M EXCHANGE) EXCHANGE) US$M US$M
REVENUE ANALYSIS BY GEOGRAPHY
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Europe, Middle East
and Africa 758 734 3% 8% 1,266 1,225
Asia/Pacific 232 243 (5%) 5% 387 406
The Americas 223 214 4% 5% 373 357
Instinet 208 186 11% 13% 346 311
TIBCO 32 32 2% 3% 54 53
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TOTAL 1,453 1,409 3% 8% 2,426 2,352
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REVENUE ANALYSIS BY PRODUCT
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Information products
Recurring 840 815 3% 9% 1,405 1,361
Outright 85 83 3% 10% 142 138
925 898 3% 9% 1,547 1,499
Transaction products
Instinet 208 186 11% 13% 346 311
Other transaction
products 221 223 (1%) 4% 369 372
429 409 5% 8% 715 683
Media and Professional
products 99 102 (3%) - 164 170
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TOTAL 1,453 1,409 3% 8% 2,426 2,352
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-6-
REVIEW OF INTERIM RESULTS
The following review has been prepared in accordance with both the
recommendations of the UK Accounting Standards Board in their statement entitled
'Operating and Financial Review', and the US requirement for a Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
Under US law all statements other than statements of historical fact included in
this review are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements within the
meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Certain important factors that could cause
actual results to differ materially from those discussed in such forward-looking
statements are described under "Cautionary Statements" as well as elsewhere in
this review. All written and oral forward-looking statements made on or after
the date hereof and attributable to Reuters are expressly qualified in their
entirety by such Cautionary Statements.
FINANCIAL SUMMARY
Reported revenues increased 3% to (pound)1,453 million in the first half of
1998. Excluding the impact of currency movements, revenues grew 8% at comparable
exchange rates, in line with growth at comparable rates in the first half of
1997.
Revenue at actual and comparable rates (% change)
H1 98 H1 97
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Actual 3% (2%)
Comparable 8% 8%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Second quarter revenue grew 9% at comparable exchange rates, or 4% at actual
rates.
Operating profit in the first half of 1998, which includes the amortisation of
goodwill, grew 4% to (pound)278 million at actual exchange rates and grew 20% at
comparable rates. This compares with 8% growth at comparable rates in the first
half of 1997. The operating margin increased to 19.1%, up from 18.9%.
The combined cost of incremental external resources related to the Millennium
and Euro Programmes totalled (pound)14 million in the first half of 1998,
compared with (pound)2 million in the first half of 1997.
Operating profit at actual and comparable rates (% change)
H1 98 H1 97
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Actual 4% (8%)
Comparable 20% 8%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Goodwill amortisation of (pound)25 million was charged in the first half of 1998
compared with (pound)30 million in the first half of 1997. 1997 figures have
been restated to reflect the implementation of UK FRS 10 (Goodwill and
Intangible Assets), which was adopted for the 1997 full year results.
Operating profit before goodwill amortisation grew 2% to (pound)303 million at
actual exchange rates and grew 15% at comparable rates. The operating profit
margin before goodwill amortisation was 20.8% compared with 21.1% in the first
half of 1997.
-7-
Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) grew 4% at
actual rates to (pound)465 million, and 12% at comparable rates compared with 3%
in 1997.
Net interest receivable was (pound)11 million compared with (pound)36 million in
the first half of 1997. The group moved to a net debt position following the
capital reorganisation in February 1998 which returned (pound)1.5 billion of
surplus capital to shareholders. Reuters expects to be a net payer of interest
in the second half of 1998.
Profit before tax of (pound)294 million was 3% lower than in the first half of
1997 but up 9% at comparable exchange rates.
The tax charge for the first half of 1998 is based on an estimated tax rate on
profit before goodwill amortisation of 31%. This is in line with the rate for
1997 after excluding taxes related to the return of capital to shareholders
charged in 1997.
The effective rate of tax on profit after goodwill amortisation for the first
half of 1998 was 33.6% compared with 34.1% in the first half of 1997.
Earnings per share increased 8% in the first half of 1998 to 13.3p from 12.3p in
the first half of 1997. Excluding goodwill amortisation earnings per share was
15.0p in the first six months of 1998 compared with 14.2p in the first half of
1997.
The interim dividend per share has been increased by 10% to 3.4p, slightly ahead
of earnings per share growth.
Earnings and dividends per share (% change)
H1 98 H1 97 H1 96
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Earnings per share growth 8% (7%) 18%
Dividends per share growth 10% 13% 20%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dividend cover increased to 4.1 in the first half of 1998 from 4.0 in 1997.
Free cash flow per share was 13.6p, up 3% from 13.2p in the first half of 1997.
Sterling continued to strengthen during 1998. If 30 June exchange rates had
prevailed throughout the period, revenue would have been about (pound)20 million
lower and operating profit before currency hedging around (pound)9 million
lower. At 30 June exchange rates the unrecognised currency hedging gain is
(pound)21 million in respect of the second half of 1998 and (pound)9 million in
respect of 1999. This compares with currency hedging gains of (pound)28 million
recognised in the first half of 1998. If sterling's strength persists it will,
therefore, continue to restrict prospects for reported revenue and earnings
growth.
Investment in the business continued with (pound)135 million of fixed asset
additions, (pound)116 million of development expenditure and (pound)34 million
of acquisitions and investments.
The return of (pound)1.5 billion surplus capital to shareholders in February
1998, which is discussed in more detail on page 16, resulted in the company
moving into a net debt position. Net debt at 30 June 1998 was (pound)157
million.
MILLENNIUM PROGRAMME
In 1996 Reuters formally established a Millennium Compliance Programme to
address the issues arising as a result of the change of millennium.
Millennium versions of software are starting to be installed at customer sites
with the current aim of completing this work for key products with major
customers by the end of the year.
-8-
The Reuters "Millennium Challenge" global communications exercise continues to
explain progress on Millennium compliance for the Reuters product line to
customers and other external audiences. Details of the Millennium warranty are
set out on the Millennium section of the Reuters web site on the Internet.
Reuters has set up Millennium demonstration data on its operational information
services network which can be viewed through the Reuters terminal or Reuters
graphics products.
Reuters currently plans to participate in the industry tests organised by the US
Securities Industry Association (SIA) in 1999 once test arrangements are
finalised. Reuters is also a member of several country and global industry year
2000 committees.
The effort associated with the programme falls into two main categories:
1. The diversion of existing internal resources. This includes development staff
who would otherwise be deployed on other projects and operational staff involved
in the implementation at customer sites.
2. Incremental external resources, largely contractors and consultants, who will
not remain following the completion of the programme.
The effort incurred in the first half of 1998, together with the estimated
effort for the full year including the cost of incremental external resources,
are set out below:
MAN INCREMENTAL
YEARS COST ((POUND)M)
- -----------------------------------------------------------
1998 FIRST HALF
Internal effort
Development 180
Implementation 225
- -----------------------------------------------------------
External effort
Development 85 8
Implementation 30 3
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Total 520 11
- -----------------------------------------------------------
1998 FULL YEAR
Internal effort
Development 340
Implementation 430
- -----------------------------------------------------------
External effort
Development 165 16
Implementation 180 13
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Total 1,115 29
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Incremental costs incurred in the first half of 1997 amounted to (pound)2
million.
The implementation process is complex and reliant upon co-ordination with
customers and suppliers. The effort and costs in 1999 will depend upon progress
during 1998 and Reuters current assessment is that these will not exceed those
incurred in 1998.
The above figures are based on the current status of the programme and may be
subject to change. They include estimates and allocations of time in those cases
where Reuters staff have other responsibilities in addition to the Millennium
Programme.
EUROPEAN MONETARY UNION
European Monetary Union is scheduled to commence on 1 January 1999.
Reuters formally established a Euro Programme in 1997 to manage issues arising
from monetary union.
The details of Reuters preparations related to European Monetary Union have been
documented and communicated to customers, and are also available at the Reuters
web site on the Internet.
The overlapping time frames for European Monetary Union and the millennium offer
some opportunities for Reuters to coordinate the two programmes in an effort to
increase efficiency and reduce inconvenience to the day to day operations of
customers caused by the implementation process.
-9-
The effort incurred in the first half of 1998, together with the estimated
effort for the full year, are set out below.
MAN INCREMENTAL
YEARS COST ((POUND)M)
- -----------------------------------------------------------
1998 FIRST HALF
Internal effort
Development & implementation 120
- -----------------------------------------------------------
External effort
Development 20 2
Implementation 15 1
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Total 155 3
- -----------------------------------------------------------
1998 FULL YEAR
Internal effort
Development & implementation 220
- -----------------------------------------------------------
External effort
Development 60 7
Implementation 50 3
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Total 330 10
- -----------------------------------------------------------
No significant incremental costs were incurred in the first half of 1997.
The effort and costs in 1999 are expected to be lower.
The above figures are based on the current status of the programme and may be
subject to change. They include estimates and allocations of time in those cases
where Reuters staff have other responsibilities in addition to the Euro
Programme.
REVENUES BY PRODUCT AND TYPE
Revenue by product
Six months to 30 June
((pound)m) 1998 1997 1996
- -------------------------------------------------
Financial information 925 898 929
Transaction 429 409 405
Media/Professional 99 102 104
- -------------------------------------------------
Total 1,453 1,409 1,438
- -------------------------------------------------
The proportion of revenue derived from each product group remains at similar
levels to 1997 and 1996. Financial information products continue to represent
the most significant part of group revenue.
Revenue by product
Financial information 64%
Transaction 29%
Media/Professional 7%
- -------------------------------------------------
Total 100%
- -------------------------------------------------
Revenue by type
Six months to 30 June
((pound)m) 1998 1997 1996
- -------------------------------------------------
Recurring 1,091 1,066 1,121
Usage 273 253 234
Outright sales 89 90 83
- -------------------------------------------------
Total 1,453 1,409 1,438
- -------------------------------------------------
Recurring revenue, which is derived from the sale of subscription products,
principally in financial information and Dealing 2000-1, represents 75% of group
revenue. Usage-based revenue, principally Instinet and Dealing 2000-2, has grown
faster than recurring revenue and now represents 19% of total revenue compared
to 18% in the first half of 1997.
-10-
Revenue by type
Recurring 75%
Usage 19%
Outright sales 6%
- -------------------------------------------------
Total 100%
- -------------------------------------------------
FINANCIAL INFORMATION PRODUCTS:
Financial information products deliver real-time and historical news and
financial data to customers within the financial markets and provide the
software tools to analyse data. Reuters main offerings are the series 2000 and
3000 product lines. Information management systems offer customers the means to
integrate and analyse data from a variety of sources for financial trading
rooms. Risk management, order handling products and customised solutions from
TIBCO offer customers the means of managing their own information flows and
exposure to risk.
-10-
(Continued)
Financial information revenue
Six months to 30 June
((pound)m) 1998 1997 1996
- ----------------------------------------------------
Europe, Middle East
and Africa 557 535 558
Asia/Pacific 169 174 183
The Americas 167 157 160
TIBCO 32 32 28
- ----------------------------------------------------
Total 925 898 929
% change
actual 3% (3%)
comparable 9% 7%
- ----------------------------------------------------
Over 90% of financial information revenue is recurring.
Recurring revenue
Six months to 30 June
1998 1997 1996
- ----------------------------------------------------
Revenue ((pound)m) 840 815 854
actual 3% (5%)
comparable 9% 6%
- ----------------------------------------------------
Accesses (000s)
Series 3000 38 11 -
Off trading floor products 72 39 13
Other products 308 305 290
- ----------------------------------------------------
Total 418 355 303
- ----------------------------------------------------
Revenue per access
((pound)000) 2.1 2.4 2.8
% change
actual (13%) (16%)
comparable (9%) (7%)
- ----------------------------------------------------
Accesses grew by 18% year on year to 418,000 at 30 June 1998. This compares to
growth of 17% in the equivalent period in 1997. Over half of this growth came
from off trading floor products with total installed accesses of 72,000 at 30
June 1998. Installed 3000 accesses increased from 28,000 at the end of 1997 to
nearly 38,000 at 30 June 1998. Approximately 30% of the 3000 accesses installed
in the first half of the year are new installations.
The rate of installation of 3000 products slowed in the first half, reflecting
client decisions to await Millennium and Euro versions of the 3000 product
range.
The continuing growth in lower priced off trading floor product accesses
contributed to a fall in revenue per access in 1998 of 9%. Excluding these
accesses, the revenue per access at comparable exchange rates was stable.
Outright revenue
Six months to 30 June
1998 1997 1996
- ----------------------------------------------------
Revenue ((pound)m) 85 83 75
% change
actual 3% 11%
comparable 10% 23%
- ----------------------------------------------------
Underlying revenue growth during the first half of 1998 reflected strong demand
for risk management products, particularly in Europe.
Transaction Products:
Transaction products principally comprise Dealing 2000-1, Dealing 2000-2 and
Instinet. Dealing 2000 products enable foreign exchange professionals to
converse electronically with chosen trading partners using Reuters Dealing
2000-1 or Dealing 2000-2 automated matching systems. Instinet provides agency
brokerage services in global equities to securities industry professionals in
more than 26 countries.
-11-
Transaction revenue
Six months to 30 June
((pound)m) 1998 1997 1996
- ----------------------------------------------------
Europe, Middle East
and Africa 134 133 144
Asia/Pacific 50 54 54
The Americas 37 36 38
Instinet 208 186 169
- ----------------------------------------------------
Total 429 409 405
% change
actual 5% 1%
comparable 8% 10%
- ----------------------------------------------------
Accesses (000s)
Dealing 25 25 24
Instinet 14 10 8
- ----------------------------------------------------
Total 39 35 32
- ----------------------------------------------------
Revenue per access
((pound)000) 11.1 12.0 13.0
actual (7%) (8%)
comparable (4%) -
- ----------------------------------------------------
Underlying revenue growth of 8% reflected revenue growth of 13% at Instinet,
discussed further on pages 13-14 and growth of 4% from Dealing 2000-1 and
2000-2.
-11-
(Continued)
Revenue from Dealing 2000-1 and Dealing 2000-2 decreased 1% at actual rates in
the first half of 1998 and increased 4% at comparable rates, reflecting steady
growth in transaction volumes on Dealing 2000-2 and the benefit of the
introduction of Dealing 2000 Forwards in the second half of 1997, partly offset
by a modest reduction in prices.
Accesses grew by 12% year on year to 39,000 at 30 June 1998 of which 25,000
related to Dealing 2000-1 and Dealing 2000-2. This compared to growth of 9% in
the equivalent period in 1997. Excluding Instinet, revenue per access decreased
3% at actual rates to (pound)8,800 but increased 2% at comparable rates.
MEDIA AND PROFESSIONAL PRODUCTS:
Media products comprise textual news, television services, pictures and graphics
for republication by media customers and also the repackaging and sale of
content for on-line services. Professional products provide a range of near
real-time and historical financial information news products and related
technology to the corporate and professional markets. Reuters Business Briefing
provides access to 10 years' business information from one of the world's most
comprehensive databases.
MEDIA AND PROFESSIONAL REVENUE
Six months to 30 June
((pound)m) 1998 1997 1996
- ----------------------------------------------------
Europe, Middle East
and Africa 67 66 66
Asia/Pacific 13 15 16
The Americas 19 21 22
- ----------------------------------------------------
Total 99 102 104
% change
actual (3%) (2%)
comparable - 7%
- ----------------------------------------------------
Media products revenue
Six months to 30 June
1998 1997 1996
- ----------------------------------------------------
Revenue ((pound)m) 64 71 78
% change
actual (10%) (9%)
comparable (8%) 1%
- ----------------------------------------------------
Professional products revenue
Six months to 30 June
1998 1997 1996
Revenue ((pound)m) 35 31 26
% change
actual 12% 18%
comparable 17% 26%
- ----------------------------------------------------
Excluding revenues from the satellite services business sold in the second half
of 1997, media revenue was flat at comparable exchange rates.
Strong growth from professional products reflects the continued success of the
Reuters Business Briefing product range. Password accesses to Reuters Business
Briefing increased 84% year on year to 12,200 at 30 June 1998.
SEGMENTAL ANALYSIS OF REVENUE AND CONTRIBUTION
Europe, Middle East and Africa
((pound)m) H1 98 H1 97 H1 96
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Revenue 758 734 768
Contribution 257 248 272
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Revenue and contribution (% change)
Six months to 30 June
1998 1997
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Revenue (% change)
actual 3% (4%)
comparable 8% 7%
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Contribution (% change)
actual 4% (9%)
comparable 14% 10%
- -----------------------------------------------------------
-12-
Revenue growth in the first half of the year was highest in eastern Europe where
revenue grew 24% at comparable rates. In the UK and Ireland revenue grew 7% in
both the first half of 1998 and the first half of 1997.
Contribution growth was restrained by the impact of currency. At actual rates
contribution margin remained stable at 34% in the first half of 1998.
-12-
(Continued)
Asia/Pacific
((pound)m) H1 98 H1 97 H1 96
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Revenue 232 243 253
Contribution 85 89 99
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Revenue and contribution (% change)
Six months to 30 June
1998 1997
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Revenue (% change)
actual (5%) (4%)
comparable 5% 7%
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Contribution (% change)
actual (4%) (10%)
comparable 6% 5%
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Slower revenue growth of 5% at comparable rates in the first half of 1998
reflected the impact of the Asian financial crisis on the region's economy.
Revenue in Japan grew by 8% at comparable rates mainly due to sales of
information and risk management systems and the domestic equities product.
Contribution growth, excluding the impact of currency, was 6% for the first half
of 1998. At actual rates contribution margin improved 1% to 37%, from 36% in
1997.
The Americas
((pound)m) H1 98 H1 97 H1 96
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Revenue 223 214 220
Contribution 12 15 20
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Revenue and contribution (% change)
Six months to 30 June
1998 1997
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Revenue (% change)
actual 4% (3%)
comparable 5% 4%
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Contribution (% change)
actual (20%) (25%)
comparable (22%) (14%)
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Revenue from the Americas, excluding Instinet and TIBCO, grew 5% at comparable
rates in the first half of 1998.
North American revenue grew 4% at comparable rates reflecting good demand for
information products against a background of banking industry consolidation.
Revenue grew 13% at comparable rates in Latin America, including revenue growth
of 30% in Brazil and 17% in Argentina.
At actual rates contribution margin decreased from 7% in the first half of 1997
to 6% in the first half of 1998. This reflected increased infrastructure costs
to support new domestic products, in particular Reuters Plus, and enhanced
international services.
Instinet
((pound)m) H1 98 H1 97 H1 96
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Revenue 208 186 169
Contribution 75 77 67
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Revenue and contribution (% change)
Six months to 30 June
1998 1997
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Revenue (% change)
actual 11% 10%
comparable 13% 17%
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Contribution (% change)
actual (3%) 15%
comparable (1%) 24%
- -----------------------------------------------------------
-13-
At comparable rates, Instinet revenues grew 3% in the US, down from 18% in the
first half of 1997. Continuing growth in share volumes traded through Instinet
was offset by the effect of pricing pressure in a competitive market.
-13-
(Continued)
Internationally, Instinet continued to expand trading in all its major markets
with first half revenues growing 88% at comparable rates. Growth was driven by
increasing liquidity in European equities.
Accesses grew 38% to 14,000 year on year, compared with growth of 37% for the
equivalent period in 1997. Revenue per access at comparable rates fell 19%,
reflecting the impact of lower pricing in the US.
First half contribution declined 1% at comparable rates reflecting the impact of
changes in US trading rules, the cost of additional systems capacity and
investment in new areas which offset a significant improvement in international
profitability.
Contribution margin fell to 36% in the first half of 1998 compared with 41% in
the first half of 1997.
For information concerning proposed rules that could affect Instinet's business
see Cautionary Statements: 'Proposed SEC rules for Alternative Trading Systems'
and 'Proposed NASD limit order file' on pages 21-22.
TIBCO
((pound)m) H1 98 H1 97 H1 96
- ----------------------------------------------------------
Revenue 32 32 28
Contribution (3) 4 7
- ----------------------------------------------------------
Revenue and contribution (% change)
Six months to 30 June
1998 1997
- ----------------------------------------------------------
Revenue (% change)
actual 2% 14%
comparable 3% 23%
- ----------------------------------------------------------
Contribution (% change)
actual (176%) (45%)
comparable (176%) (40%)
- ----------------------------------------------------------
TIBCO comprises two units, TIBCO Software, which was formed in late 1996 to
pursue opportunities outside the finance sector, and TIBCO Finance Technology,
which focuses on applying TIBCO technology to the finance sector. TIBCO Finance
Technology is extending its product range beyond trading room software, towards
integrated middle office systems.
During 1997, Cisco Systems Inc., and Mayfield Venture Capital acquired minority
shareholdings in TIBCO Software.
Underlying revenue in the first half of 1998 was only marginally ahead of 1997,
reflecting slippage on the completion of contracts into the second half of the
year. Cost growth reflects the ongoing investment in new product development and
additional expenditure on customer support. As a result TIBCO experienced a
(pound)3 million loss in the first half of the year.
EMERGING MARKETS
Revenue from emerging markets (eastern Europe, Latin America, South East and
East Asia, excluding Hong Kong and Singapore) grew 3% to (pound)136 million in
1998 or 13% at comparable rates, compared with 12% growth at comparable rates in
1997.
CONTRIBUTION
Total contribution before central costs fell 1% to (pound)426 million in the
first half of 1998. Excluding the impact of currency, contribution increased 7%.
DEVELOPMENT EXPENDITURE
Development expenditure, which includes development costs incurred by Areas as
well as central development units, increased 4% to (pound)116 million in the
first half of 1998, representing 8% of group revenues, the same proportion as
1997 full year expenditure. Development expenditure in the first half of 1997
has been
-14-
restated at (pound)112 million, an increase of (pound)8 million from the figure
previously reported. This was due to the misclassification of some development
costs which was corrected in our reported spend for the 1997 full year which
remains unchanged at (pound)235 million.
COSTS
Total costs grew 6% in the first half of 1998 at comparable exchange rates,
compared with revenue growth of 8%. In the first half of 1997 costs grew by 7%
while revenue grew by 8%.
Central costs which comprise corporate costs and central development, marketing
and technical operations declined 7% in the first half of 1998 at comparable
exchange rates. In the first half of 1997 costs increased by 6% reflecting the
expansion of data collection services and the development of 3000 and risk
management products.
Goodwill amortisation of (pound)25 million was charged in the first half of the
year, compared with (pound)30 million in the first half of 1997. Goodwill is
amortised through the profit and loss account over the estimated useful lives of
each element of acquired goodwill, which vary from five to twenty years.
Costs by type
Six months to 30 June
((pound)m) 1998 1997 1996
- ------------------------------------------------------------
Staff 425 414 408
Services 269 254 267
Depreciation 162 149 161
Data 116 102 89
Communications 105 102 105
Space 64 69 68
Cost of sales and other 31 44 27
Goodwill amortisation 25 30 22
Currency hedging activities -
net (gain)/loss (28) (22) 1
Foreign currency translation
- net loss/(gain) 6 - (1)
- ------------------------------------------------------------
Total 1,175 1,142 1,147
- ------------------------------------------------------------
Staff 36%
Services 23%
Depreciation 14%
Data 10%
Communications 9%
Space 5%
Other 3%
- ----------------------------------------------
Total 100%
- ----------------------------------------------
Six months to 30 June
Staff 1998 1997 1996
- ----------------------------------------------------
Cost ((pound)m) 425 414 408
(% change)
actual 3% 1%
comparable 6% 9%
- ----------------------------------------------------
Annualised average staff
cost per head
((pound)000) 52 53 56
(% change) (2%) (7%)
- ----------------------------------------------------
Total staff numbers grew by 4% in the six months to 30 June 1998 to
16,699 from the end of 1997. Excluding acquisitions the underlying growth in
staff numbers was 3%. This compares with growth of 1% to 16,119 in the six month
period to 31 December 1997. The growth reflects the continuing investment in
development resources across the product range and support for business
expansion at Instinet and TIBCO.
Salary increases were generally in line with local inflation. Staff costs per
head decreased 2% at actual rates and grew 3% at comparable rates.
Six months to 30 June
Services 1998 1997 1996
- ----------------------------------------------------
Cost ((pound)m) 269 254 267
(% change)
actual 6% (5%)
comparable 10% 2%
- ----------------------------------------------------
-15-
While cost containment initiatives continued to restrict growth in discretionary
spending, there was significant growth in third party costs to support key
internal programmes, in particular the Millennium and Euro projects and product
development.
-15-
(Continued)
Six months to 30 June
Depreciation 1998 1997 1996
- ----------------------------------------------------
Cost ((pound)m) 162 149 161
(% change)
actual 8% (7%)
comparable 8% (7%)
- ----------------------------------------------------
The cost growth reflected the impact of the high level of capital investment on
both subscriber equipment and our technical infrastructure in recent years.
Six months to 30 June
Data 1998 1997 1996
- ----------------------------------------------------
Cost ((pound)m) 116 102 89
(% change)
actual 15% 14%
comparable 18% 21%
- ----------------------------------------------------
The number of equity products liable to recoverable exchange fees continued to
increase.
Six months to 30 June
Communications 1998 1997 1996
- ----------------------------------------------------
Cost ((pound)m) 105 102 105
(% change)
actual 2% (2%)
comparable 7% 5%
- ----------------------------------------------------
Cost growth to accommodate the higher volumes of data in Reuters products and
increase in subscribers was partially offset by savings from the sale of the
satellite services business and tariff reductions.
Six months to 30 June
Space 1998 1997 1996
- ----------------------------------------------------
Cost ((pound)m) 64 69 68
(% change)
actual (7%) -
comparable (3%) 7%
- ----------------------------------------------------
No significant expansion or refurbishment costs were incurred in the first half
of 1998.
COSTS BY FUNCTION
Selling, marketing and administrative expenses declined 6% in the first half of
1998 to (pound)301 million compared to the stable levels of expenditure in the
first halves of 1997 and 1996 and principally reflected the impact of currency.
Production and communication costs grew 7% in the first half of 1998 to
(pound)849 million compared with a decrease of 2% in the first half of 1997.
This increase was principally due to increased data costs and development
spending.
INCOME FROM FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS AND ASSOCIATES
Income of (pound)3 million from fixed asset investments comprised realised gains
from a US venture capital fund specialising in high technology companies. No
income was received in the first half of 1997.
Profits of (pound)2 million from associates in the first half of 1998 included
Reuters share of the results of Independent Television News (ITN) which became
an associate in the second half of 1997. In the first half of 1997 there were no
profits from associates.
RETURN OF CAPITAL TO SHAREHOLDERS
On 18 February 1998 Reuters implemented a capital reorganisation which returned
(pound)1.5 billion of surplus capital to shareholders. The reorganisation
involved the creation of a new holding company, Reuters Group PLC, which became
the ultimate parent company of Reuters Holdings PLC in a court approved scheme
of arrangement.
Ordinary shareholders received 13 shares in Reuters Group PLC plus (pound)13.60
in cash for every 15 shares held. Holders of American Depositary Shares (ADSs),
each representing six ordinary shares, received 13 new ADSs plus the US dollar
equivalent of (pound)81.60 in cash for every 15 ADSs held.
-16-
The capital reorganisation has been accounted for as a group reconstruction and
merger accounting principles have been applied in accordance with UK GAAP.
Further explanation of this accounting treatment can be found in note 1 to the
Unaudited Interim Results on page 30.
-16-
(Continued)
FINANCIAL NEEDS AND RESOURCES
Excluding the (pound)1.5 billion return of capital to shareholders, net funds
increased by (pound)35 million during the first half of 1998. Total net debt at
30 June 1998 amounted to (pound)157 million and comprised cash and short term
investments of (pound)945 million offset by (pound)1,102 million of debt.
"Free cash flow" which comprises operating cash flow plus net interest and other
investment income received less tax paid and expenditure on tangible fixed
assets was (pound)200 million in the first half of 1998, compared with
(pound)214 million in the first half of 1997. This fall reflects increased tax
payments arising from timing differences between the payment and recovery of
advance corporation tax and reduced net interest income following the return of
surplus capital to shareholders, partially offset by reduced capital
expenditure.
Additions to fixed assets of (pound)135 million were (pound)19 million or 13%
lower than the first half of 1997. Subscriber equipment expenditure grew
(pound)3 million to (pound)58 million in the first half of 1998. Other equipment
additions fell (pound)22 million in the first half of 1998 to (pound)77 million
due principally to lower levels of infrastructure spending required on the 3000
series following the heavy investment in capacity in the first half of 1997.
Reuters spent (pound)34 million on acquisitions and investments compared to
(pound)19 million in the first half of 1997.
Dividends paid were (pound)140 million, (pound)6 million down from the first
half of 1997, reflecting the reduced number of shares in issue following the
capital reorganisation.
Reuters expects to be able to finance its current business plans from internally
generated cash and existing facilities. Committed bank facilities of (pound)1.5
billion were obtained at the time of the capital reorganisation from a syndicate
of 17 banks. Of the (pound)1.5 billion, (pound)1 billion may be drawn and
redrawn until 2 December 1998, at which time Reuters Group PLC may make a final
election to borrow all or part of this facility for fixed periods of up to 12
months. The remaining (pound)0.5 billion may be drawn and redrawn up to one
month prior to its maturity on 4 December 2002.
To ensure that the cost of debt finance is minimised, Reuters Group PLC obtained
short and long-term credit ratings from Standard & Poor's in March 1998.
In April Reuters put in place a (pound)1.5 billion Euro-commercial paper
programme providing uncommitted finance at competitive rates for periods of up
to 364 days. Debt drawn from committed facilities in February to fund the return
of capital to shareholders has been repaid in full by funds borrowed on
Euro-commercial paper. Paper outstanding at 30 June 1998 was issued with
original maturities of between two months and 364 days.
TREASURY MANAGEMENT
A substantial portion of Reuters revenue is committed under one-, two- and four-
year contracts and approximately 80% is denominated in non-sterling currencies.
Reuters also has significant costs denominated in foreign currencies with a
different mix from revenue. Reuters profits are, therefore, exposed to currency
fluctuations. The approximate proportion of operating profit (excluding goodwill
amortisation and currency gains) attributable to each key currency group in the
first half of 1998 was as follows:
Currency profile of operating profit before goodwill amortisation and
currency gains
- ------------------------------
Continental Europe 90%
US dollar 49%
Japanese Yen 13%
Sterling
- depreciation (51%)
- other (19%)
Other 18%
- ------------------------------
Total 100%
- ------------------------------
-17-
Sterling costs exceed sterling revenues due to the level of UK-based marketing,
development, operational and central management costs, and depreciation costs
which, with the exceptions of Instinet and TIBCO, are largely accounted for in
sterling once an asset has been acquired.
In broad terms using the 1998 mix of profits, the impact of an additional
unilateral 1% strengthening of sterling would have been a reduction of
approximately (pound)4 million in 1998 first half trading profits before
hedging.
Sterling Trade Weighted Exchange Rate Index
INDEX ON LAST DAY OF MONTH
----------------------------------
MONTH 1995 1996 1997 1998
Jan 83.3 94.4 105.0
Feb 83.3 98.3 105.1
Mar 83.4 98.0 108.8
Apr 83.8 100.1 106.3
May 86.3 99.3 103.6
Jun 86.3 102.1 107.0
Jul 84.6 104.6
Aug 85.3 102.2
Sep 87.0 100.4
Oct 90.2 102.3
Nov 94.0 105.0
Dec 83.1 96.1 104.4
Sterling has strengthened significantly over the last two years. As a result,
trading profits have been adversely affected.
The risk that sterling might strengthen against foreign currencies is hedged
within parameters laid down by the Board. The priority in treasury policy is to
reduce the risk of earnings volatility to acceptable levels while allowing a
degree of flexibility to take advantage of market movements.
The main principles underlying currency hedging policies are as follows:
* Committed hedging cannot exceed the underlying cash flow exposure;
* Options may only be written against an underlying exposure;
* Levels of cover for currency hedging cannot exceed 90% of underlying exposure
for the first 12 months and 70% for the following 12 months.
The company has adopted value at risk ("VAR") analysis as a means of quantifying
the potential impact of exchange rate volatility on reported earnings. VAR is a
measure of the potential loss on a portfolio within a specified time horizon, at
a specified confidence interval. Loss is defined, in this instance, as the
diminution in value of rolling 12 month forecast group profits denominated in
sterling. Due to the approximations used in determining VAR, the theory provides
order of magnitude estimates only but these are useful for comparison purposes.
Reuters estimates that there is currently a 5% chance that profits forecast for
the coming 12 months will deteriorate by more than (pound)60 million before
hedging and (pound)32 million after taking into account hedging at 30 June 1998.
These figures represent the value at risk and are illustrated by a graph using
the data series below:
Operating profit sensitivity to currency fluctuations based on VAR analysis
Without Hedging With Hedging Benchmark
Profit Probability Unhedged Probability Hedged Probability Benchmark
((pound))
- -(pound)164 4.78E-07 4.77726E-07 1.06603E-17 1.07E-17 1.57314E-29 1.57314E-29
- -(pound)160 7.75E-07 7.74782E-07 5.80957E-17 5.81E-17 3.23052E-28 3.23052E-28
- -(pound)156 1.24E-06 1.24164E-06 3.03623E-16 3.04E-16 6.157E-27 6.157E-27
- -(pound)152 1.97E-06 1.96619E-06 1.52175E-15 1.52E-15 1.08908E-25 1.08908E-25
- -(pound)148 3.08E-06 3.07659E-06 7.31426E-15 7.31E-15 1.78789E-24 1.78789E-24
- -(pound)144 4.76E-06 4.75697E-06 3.37143E-14 3.37E-14 2.72404E-23 2.72404E-23
- -(pound)140 7.27E-06 7.26783E-06 1.49031E-13 1.49E-13 3.85195E-22 3.85195E-22
- -(pound)136 1.1E-05 1.09722E-05 6.31768E-13 6.32E-13 5.05521E-21 5.05521E-21
- -(pound)132 1.64E-05 1.63681E-05 2.56836E-12 2.57E-12 6.15731E-20 6.15731E-20
- -(pound)128 2.41E-05 2.41278E-05 1.00132E-11 1E-11 6.96042E-19 6.96042E-19
- -(pound)124 3.51E-05 3.5144E-05 3.74375E-11 3.74E-11 7.3025E-18 7.3025E-18
- -(pound)120 5.06E-05 5.05825E-05 1.34233E-10 1.34E-10 7.11051E-17 7.11051E-17
- -(pound)116 7.19E-05 7.19388E-05 4.61562E-10 4.62E-10 6.42573E-16 6.42573E-16
- -(pound)112 0.000101 0.000101098 1.52201E-09 1.52E-09 5.38935E-15 5.38935E-15
- -(pound)108 0.00014 0.00014039 4.81309E-09 4.81E-09 4.19511E-14 4.19511E-14
- -(pound)104 0.000193 0.000192638 1.45965E-08 1.46E-08 3.03069E-13 3.03069E-13
- -(pound)100 0.000261 0.000261195 4.24513E-08 4.25E-08 2.03205E-12 2.03205E-12
-18-
Without Hedging With Hedging Benchmark
Profit Probability Unhedged Probability Hedged Probability Benchmark
((pound))
- -(pound)96 0.00035 0.000349947 1.184E-07 1.18E-07 1.2645E-11 1.2645E-11
- -(pound)92 0.000463 0.000463292 3.16686E-07 3.17E-07 7.30288E-11 7.30288E-11
- -(pound)88 0.000606 0.000606069 8.12315E-07 8.12E-07 3.91438E-10 3.91438E-10
- -(pound)84 0.000783 0.000783436 1.9982E-06 2E-06 1.94726E-09 1.94726E-09
- -(pound)80 0.001001 0.001000692 4.71379E-06 4.71E-06 8.99039E-09 8.99039E-09
- -(pound)76 0.001263 0.001263025 1.0664E-05 1.07E-05 3.85234E-08 3.85234E-08
- -(pound)72 0.001575 0.001575209 2.3136E-05 2.31E-05 1.53202E-07 1.53202E-07
- -(pound)68 0.001941 0.001941239 4.81364E-05 4.81E-05 5.65452E-07 5.65452E-07
- -(pound)64 0.002364 0.002363932 9.60456E-05 9.6E-05 1.93695E-06 1.93695E-06
- -(pound)60 0.002844 0.002844497 0.00018378 0.000184 6.15794E-06 6.15794E-06
- -(pound)56 0.003382 0.003382135 0.00033724 0.000337 1.81696E-05 1.81696E-05
- -(pound)52 0.003974 0.003973665 0.000593467 0.000593 4.97561E-05 4.97561E-05
- -(pound)48 0.004613 0.004613242 0.001001549 0.001002 0.000126456 0.000126456
- -(pound)44 0.005292 0.005292197 0.001620935 0.001621 0.000298282 0.000298282
- -(pound)40 0.005999 0.005999025 0.002515806 0.002516 0.000652988 0.000652988
- -(pound)36 0.00672 0.006719548 0.003744609 0.003745 0.001326712 0.001326712
- -(pound)32 0.007437 0.007437283 0.005345076 0.005345 0.00250173 0.00250173
- -(pound)28 0.008134 0.008133984 0.007316766 0.007317 0.004378212 0.004378212
- -(pound)24 0.00879 0.008790369 0.009605113 0.009605 0.007111244 0.007111244
- -(pound)20 0.009387 0.009386976 0.012092155 0.012092 0.010719805 0.010719805
- -(pound)16 0.009905 0.009905106 0.014598994 0.014599 0.014997562 0.014997562
- -(pound)12 0.010328 0.010327789 0.016902855 0.016903 0.019473632 0.019473632
- -(pound)8 0.010641 0.010640704 0.018767878 0.018768 0.023467441 0.023467441
- -(pound)4 0.010833 0.010832985 0.019984268 0.019984 0.026246839 0.026246839
- -(pound)0 0.010898 0.010897848 0.020407005 0.020407 0.02724462 0.02724462
- -(pound)4 0.010833 0.010832985 0.019984268 0.019984 0.026246839 0.026246839
- -(pound)8 0.010641 0.010640704 0.018767878 0.018768 0.023467441 0.023467441
- -(pound)12 0.010328 0.010327789 0.016902855 0.016903 0.019473632 0.019473632
- -(pound)16 0.009905 0.009905106 0.014598994 0.014599 0.014997562 0.014997562
- -(pound)20 0.009387 0.009386976 0.012092155 0.012092 0.010719805 0.010719805
- -(pound)24 0.00879 0.008790369 0.009605113 0.009605 0.007111244 0.007111244
- -(pound)28 0.008134 0.008133984 0.007316766 0.007317 0.004378212 0.004378212
- -(pound)32 0.007437 0.007437283 0.005345076 0.005345 0.00250173 0.00250173
- -(pound)36 0.00672 0.006719548 0.003744609 0.003745 0.001326712 0.001326712
- -(pound)40 0.005999 0.005999025 0.002515806 0.002516 0.000652988 0.000652988
- -(pound)44 0.005292 0.005292197 0.001620935 0.001621 0.000298282 0.000298282
- -(pound)48 0.004613 0.004613242 0.001001549 0.001002 0.000126456 0.000126456
- -(pound)52 0.003974 0.003973665 0.000593467 0.000593 4.97561E-05 4.97561E-05
- -(pound)56 0.003382 0.003382135 0.00033724 0.000337 1.81696E-05 1.81696E-05
- -(pound)60 0.002844 0.002844497 0.00018378 0.000184 6.15794E-06 6.15794E-06
- -(pound)64 0.002364 0.002363932 9.60456E-05 9.6E-05 1.93695E-06 1.93695E-06
- -(pound)68 0.001941 0.001941239 4.81364E-05 4.81E-05 5.65452E-07 5.65452E-07
- -(pound)72 0.001575 0.001575209 2.3136E-05 2.31E-05 1.53202E-07 1.53202E-07
- -(pound)76 0.001263 0.001263025 1.0664E-05 1.07E-05 3.85234E-08 3.85234E-08
- -(pound)80 0.001001 0.001000692 4.71379E-06 4.71E-06 8.99039E-09 8.99039E-09
- -(pound)84 0.000783 0.000783436 1.9982E-06 2E-06 1.94726E-09 1.94726E-09
- -(pound)88 0.000606 0.000606069 8.12315E-07 8.12E-07 3.91438E-10 3.91438E-10
- -(pound)92 0.000463 0.000463292 3.16686E-07 3.17E-07 7.30288E-11 7.30288E-11
- -(pound)96 0.00035 0.000349947 1.184E-07 1.18E-07 1.2645E-11 1.2645E-11
- -(pound)100 0.000261 0.000261195 4.24513E-08 4.25E-08 2.03205E-12 2.03205E-12
- -(pound)104 0.000193 0.000192638 1.45965E-08 1.46E-08 3.03069E-13 3.03069E-13
- -(pound)108 0.00014 0.00014039 4.81309E-09 4.81E-09 4.19511E-14 4.19511E-14
- -(pound)112 0.000101 0.000101098 1.52201E-09 1.52E-09 5.38935E-15 5.38935E-15
- -(pound)116 7.19E-05 7.19388E-05 4.61562E-10 4.62E-10 6.42573E-16 6.42573E-16
- -(pound)120 5.06E-05 5.05825E-05 1.34233E-10 1.34E-10 7.11051E-17 7.11051E-17
- -(pound)124 3.51E-05 3.5144E-05 3.74375E-11 3.74E-11 7.3025E-18 7.3025E-18
- -(pound)128 2.41E-05 2.41278E-05 1.00132E-11 1E-11 6.96042E-19 6.96042E-19
- -(pound)132 1.64E-05 1.63681E-05 2.56836E-12 2.57E-12 6.15731E-20 6.15731E-20
- -(pound)136 1.1E-05 1.09722E-05 6.31768E-13 6.32E-13 5.05521E-21 5.05521E-21
- -(pound)140 7.27E-06 7.26783E-06 1.49031E-13 1.49E-13 3.85195E-22 3.85195E-22
- -(pound)144 4.76E-06 4.75697E-06 3.37143E-14 3.37E-14 2.72404E-23 2.72404E-23
- -(pound)148 3.08E-06 3.07659E-06 7.31426E-15 7.31E-15 1.78789E-24 1.78789E-24
- -(pound)152 1.97E-06 1.96619E-06 1.52175E-15 1.52E-15 1.08908E-25 1.08908E-25
- -(pound)156 1.24E-06 1.24164E-06 3.03623E-16 3.04E-16 6.157E-27 6.157E-27
During the first six months of 1998 the average value at risk before hedging on
forecast profits for the coming 12 months varied between (pound)62 million and
(pound)75 million and averaged (pound)66 million and after hedging varied
between (pound)33 million and (pound)42 million, averaging (pound)36 million.
Net cash flows are mainly converted into sterling and either applied to reduce
debt or invested in money market instruments with financial institutions holding
strong credit ratings. The use of sterling instruments avoids any currency
exposure. Interest rates are hedged using a mix of financial instruments which
commence and mature at various dates through April 2000.
-18-
(Continued)
Following completion of the capital reorganisation Reuters is in a net debt
position and expects to be a net payer of interest in the second half of 1998
based upon current cash flow forecasts.
In broad terms, using the average net funds position, adjusted on a proforma
basis for the return of capital to shareholders as if it had taken place at the
beginning of the year, a 1% increase in global interest rates would have reduced
proforma profit before tax in the first half of 1998 by approximately (pound)1
million excluding the impact of hedging.
The gain on currency hedging activities for the first half of 1998 and the first
half of 1997 and the fair value of the unrecognised gain on the hedging book at
30 June 1998 are summarised below. The unrecognised gains are based on fair
values at 30 June 1998 and include certain realised items which have been
deferred because they relate to future periods.
Currency hedging gains
((pound)m) 1998 1997 1996
- ---------------------------------------------------
Recognised gains in
six months to 30 June 28 22 -
Unrecognised gains
at 30 June 30 49 5
- ---------------------------------------------------
Of the currency gains recognised in the first half of 1998, (pound)26 million
related to contracts in place at the end of 1997.
Recognised currency hedging gains were higher in the first half of 1998 compared
with 1997 mainly due to an increase in levels hedged and the average 7%
strengthening of sterling between the two periods.
Of the unrecognised currency hedging profit at 30 June 1998, (pound)21 million
relates to the second half of 1998 (30 June 1997 - (pound)33 million related to
the second half of 1997).
GOODWILL
Reuters has amended the presentation of goodwill amortisation in its 1998
interim figures. In 1997 Reuters adopted UK FRS 10, a new accounting standard
requiring amortisation of goodwill, ahead of its mandatory implementation date.
In order to preserve comparability of its operating profit with prior periods
and with other companies which had not implemented the new accounting standard,
goodwill amortisation was disclosed as a separate line item on the face of the
profit and loss account after operating profit. Following discussions with the
Financial Reporting Review Panel, Reuters has decided to amend its presentation.
Although goodwill amortisation remains separately disclosed on the face of the
profit and loss account, it is now shown as a component of operating costs and
is therefore deducted as a cost in arriving at operating profit. Prior periods
have been restated to show operating profit on a consistent basis.
US GAAP
Reconciliations of net income and shareholders' equity under UK and US GAAP are
set out on pages 32-33. A statement of comprehensive income is included for the
first time. A discussion of the relevant US accounting policies which differ
materially from UK GAAP is given on page 80 of Reuters Holdings PLC 1997 annual
report and accounts. Two additional accounting adjustments were made in the
first half of 1998.
Firstly, a deduction of (pound)22 million before tax was made in respect of the
recognition of revenue from sales of software subject to millennium warranties.
Under UK GAAP, revenue and related direct costs from contracts for the outright
sale of software systems are recognised at the time of client acceptance. Under
US GAAP, specific rules were introduced with effect from January 1998 for the
determination of client
-19-
acceptance in cases where future significant modifications or upgrades to the
software are considered to be part of the client's overall acceptance of the
product.
Under these rules, an amount of revenue is required to be deferred until these
software upgrades have been delivered and accepted by the client. Where vendor
specific objective evidence of the value of the upgrade is not available, all
the revenue is required to be deferred. Warranties provided by Reuters in
connection with the delivery of millennium versions of software fall within
these rules and consequently an element of revenue and related direct cost has
been deferred under US GAAP. This policy has not been adopted for UK GAAP.
Secondly, a different accounting treatment is required under US GAAP to reflect
the impact of the capital reorganisation in February 1998. Under US GAAP this
transaction was deemed to be a share consolidation combined with a special
dividend and requires retroactive restatement of earnings per share and per ADS
and dividends per share and per ADS. Under UK GAAP no restatement of earnings
per share was deemed necessary as the return of capital was considered to be
equivalent to a repurchase of shares at market value and the number of new
shares in Reuters Group PLC was set to facilitate comparability with those of
Reuters Holdings PLC.
CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS
Impact of currency movements
Reuters receives revenue and incurs expenses in more than 60 currencies and is
thereby exposed to the impact of fluctuations in currency rates. Sterling's
strength during 1998 to date has restricted revenue and earnings. If sterling's
current strength continues it will restrict reported revenue and earnings in the
second half of 1998. Reuters currency exposure is actively hedged. For
additional information concerning currency fluctuations see "Treasury
Management" above.
STATE OF FINANCIAL MARKETS
Reuters business is dependent upon the health of the financial markets and the
participants in those markets. Recent events in the financial sector in Asia
have created uncertainty in these markets. Reuters business could also be
adversely affected by consolidations and rationalisations among clients in the
banking and other industries. Reuters transactions business is particularly
dependent upon the level of activity in the foreign exchange and equity markets.
3000 PRODUCT RANGE
Reuters revenue growth and market share in information products depends in part
upon the continuing successful rollout and enhancement of the 3000 range of
products launched in 1996.
PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT
Products in the information technology industry are becoming increasingly
sophisticated. As a result, Reuters, like other information vendors, may
encounter difficulties or delays in the development, production, testing,
marketing, installation and market acceptance of new products.
EUROPEAN ECONOMIC AND MONETARY UNION
The introduction of a single currency in Europe is scheduled to occur in 1999
with 11 currencies participating. This may reduce the volume of foreign exchange
trading in the near term and hence have an effect on Reuters foreign exchange
information and transaction services. In addition Reuters will need to complete
a comprehensive programme of
-20-
adjustments to its products and internal systems to reflect the single currency.
MILLENNIUM ISSUES
Reuters is exposed to various risks arising out of the change of millennium and
the impact which this may have on its products and the development and
production processes upon which they depend. Also, Reuters product range is
dependent on software, hardware, systems and databases supplied by third
parties. For additional information concerning Reuters Millennium Programme, see
"Millennium Programme" on pages 8-9.
BROKER ACTIVITIES
Certain Reuters subsidiaries act as brokers in the financial markets but do not
undertake trading on their own account. Instinet Corporation is an agency broker
in the equities markets and Reuters Transaction Services Limited (RTSL) operates
the Dealing 2000-2 electronic brokerage services for the foreign exchange
market. These brokers could incur losses from broken trades and, in respect of
equities, the failure of a counterparty. Reuters seeks to mitigate these risks
by computerised systems, procedural controls and contractual agreements with
customers.
SEC RULES ON ECN USAGE
In January 1997, the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) introduced new
rules governing market-maker and exchange specialist usage of electronic
communications networks (ECNs). The rules were introduced progressively, with
the phase-in of all securities subject to the rules completed as of 13 October
1997. Instinet Corporation and Reuters are closely monitoring the implementation
and operation of the rules.
The implementation of the rules has resulted in a significantly increased volume
of message traffic, as well as the move by US markets to permit trading in
smaller increments. Most recently by letter dated 15 April 1998, the division of
Market Regulation ("Division") of the SEC issued an extension, until 17 August
1998, of the Division's no-action position verifying Instinet Corporation's
status as an ECN. The Division continues to condition its position upon, among
other things, Instinet Corporation's representation that it has sufficient
capacity to handle the volume of trading reasonably anticipated. Instinet
Corporation has no reason at this time to believe that it will not be able to
continue to meet its obligations as an ECN under the SEC's rules.
FURTHER REGULATION OF TRANSACTION PRODUCTS
The increasing use of electronic systems as alternatives to traditional exchange
and over-the-counter trading has led authorities in several jurisdictions to
explore various methods of regulating such systems, including the proposed SEC
rules described below, implementation of which could impact Instinet and other
transaction products offered by Reuters from time to time.
PROPOSED SEC RULES FOR ALTERNATIVE TRADING SYSTEMS
In April 1998 the SEC issued for public comment proposed rules that would
overhaul the regulation of "alternative trading systems". The proposals would
expand the statutory definition of "exchange" under the US securities laws to
encompass most alternative trading systems and would permit these systems to
choose to be regulated either as a national securities exchange or as a
broker-dealer in compliance with certain additional requirements. The comment
period on the SEC proposals expires 28 July 1998. At this time Reuters is unable
to predict whether, when and in what form the proposed rules will be implemented
or the impact that any such
-21-
implementation would have on Instinet's business.
PROPOSED NASD LIMIT ORDER FILE
The US National Association of Securities Dealers Inc. (NASD), which oversees
the activities of US broker-dealers and also operates and regulates the primary
market for the trading of over-the-counter securities (Nasdaq) has proposed to
introduce a market-wide limit order file to the Nasdaq market enabling
institutions and others, under sponsorship, to place priced orders directly
within the market. Instinet believes this would place the NASD in direct
competition with its members, including Instinet. This concern is compounded by
the NASD's announced intention to acquire an equity interest in OptiMark
Technologies, Inc., a private company and a potential competitor of Instinet and
other NASD members that has developed certain order-matching technology, and to
integrate such technology directly into the proposed Nasdaq limit order file.
The NASD's proposal must be approved by the SEC. At this time Reuters is unable
to predict whether, when or in what form the NASD's proposal will be approved or
implemented, or the impact that any such implementation would have on Instinet's
business.
KEY SUPPLIERS
Reuters is reasonably dependent on certain hardware and software suppliers,
although alternative sources could be found if the need arose. The main
suppliers are Intel Corporation, Microsoft Corporation, Compaq Computer
Corporation and NCR Corporation.
NETWORKS AND SYSTEMS
Reuters networks and systems risk being impacted by a catastrophic failure of
long or short duration due to factors beyond its control. Reuters seeks over
time to minimise these risks as far as it can by, inter alia, security controls,
systems and communications redundancy and elimination of single points of
failure where feasible.
All-Media-Typlan AG ("Typlan"), the supplier of key components for certain
Reuters editorial systems, purported in February 1998 to terminate its software
licence agreements with Reuters for material breach of contract. Reuters does
not accept that Typlan has justifiable grounds for such termination. The
breakdown of this relationship exposes Reuters to various risks associated with
those of its editorial systems which currently depend on Typlan. In particular,
the risks include possible lack of ongoing support and maintenance of the
relevant software by Typlan and potential difficulties that may be encountered
in the implementation of alternative systems.
INTERNET
The availability of the public Internet and Internet technology may, over time,
reduce barriers to entry for new information providers, creating additional
competition and new price/cost dynamics in the industry. It may also increase
the availability of commoditised data in cheaper forms and the loss of control
over intellectual property. As a new publishing medium, it will also create new
outlets for content providers.
GEOGRAPHICAL OPERATIONS
Reuters may suffer discriminatory tariffs or other forms of government
intervention due to the nature of its editorial and other reporting activities.
-22-
REUTERS ANALYTICS
In January 1998 Reuters was notified that Reuters Analytics Inc. ("Reuters
Analytics"), one of its US subsidiaries, is the subject of a grand jury
investigation in New York. Reuters understands that the investigation is focused
primarily on an arrangement that Reuters Analytics had with a New York-based
consultant. The consultant subscribed to Bloomberg L.P.'s service, which
included the associated data and analytics. The investigation is focused on,
among other things, whether Reuters Analytics improperly induced the consultant
to breach certain provisions of the consultant's subscription agreement by
arranging for the consultant to provide the Bloomberg information to Reuters.
The investigation also is focused on the use by Reuters of the transmitted
information - more specifically, for example, whether Bloomberg data obtained
from the consultant was improperly incorporated into Reuters products and
whether Bloomberg information was used by Reuters Analytics for any improper
"reverse engineering" of certain analytics. It is Reuters understanding that the
principal focus of the grand jury investigation is on Reuters Analytics and
certain of its personnel. However, the investigation will also involve an
examination of the activities of other individuals and entities outside Reuters
Analytics.
Reuters is co-operating with the investigation and has engaged external legal
counsel to conduct a thorough internal inquiry. At this time Reuters is unable
to predict the impact the investigation or related events may have on its
business or financial condition.
-23-
Consolidated Profit and Loss Account for the six months to 30 June 1998
(unaudited)
SIX MONTHS SIX MONTHS
TO 30 JUNE TO 30 JUNE YEAR TO
1998 1997* 1998 1997* 31 DECEMBER 1997
(POUND)M (POUND)M US$M US$M (POUND)M US$M
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
REVENUE 1,453 1,409 2,426 2,352 2,882 4,813
Operating costs:
Excluding goodwill
amortisation (1,150) (1,112) (1,921) (1,856) (2,290) (3,824)
Goodwill
amortisation (25) (30) (41) (51) (51) (85)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1,175) (1,142) (1,962) (1,907) (2,341) (3,909)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OPERATING PROFIT 278 267 464 445 541 904
Profit/(loss)
from associates 2 - 4 - (1) (1)
Income from fixed
asset investments 3 - 5 - 6 9
Net interest receivable 11 36 18 60 80 134
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PROFIT ON ORDINARY
ACTIVITIES
BEFORE TAXATION 294 303 491 505 626 1,046
Taxation on profit
on ordinary
activities (99) (103) (165) (172) (236) (395)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PROFIT AFTER TAXATION
ATTRIBUTABLE TO
ORDINARY
SHAREHOLDERS 195 200 326 333 390 651
Dividend
Interim (48) (51) (80) (84) (50) (84)
Final - - - - (140) (233)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Retained profit 147 149 246 249 200 334
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EARNINGS PER
ORDINARY SHARE 13.3p 12.3p 24.0p
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* June 1997 figures restated following implementation of UK Financial Reporting
Standard 10 (FRS10).
-24-
Consolidated Statement of Total Recognised Gains and Losses for the six
months to 30 June 1998 (unaudited)
SIX MONTHS SIX MONTHS
TO 30 JUNE TO 30 JUNE YEAR TO
1998 1997* 1998 1997* 31 DECEMBER 1997
(POUND)M (POUND)M US$M US$M (POUND)M US$M
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Profit attributable
to ordinary
shareholders 195 200 326 333 390 651
Translation
differences
credited directly
to reserves 4 7 7 13 2 3
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total recognised
gains and losses
relating to the
period 199 207 333 346 392 654
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* June 1997 figures restated following implementation of UK Financial Reporting
Standard 10 (FRS10).
-25-
Consolidated Cash Flow Statement for the six months to 30 June 1998
(unaudited)
SIX MONTHS SIX MONTHS
TO 30 JUNE TO 30 JUNE YEAR TO
1998 1997 1998 1997 31 DECEMBER 1997
(POUND)M (POUND)M US$M US$M (POUND)M US$M
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET CASH INFLOW FROM
OPERATING
ACTIVITIES 427 409 714 683 936 1,564
Returns on
investments and
servicing of
finance
Interest received 45 35 76 59 79 132
Interest paid (32) (1) (54) (2) (3) (4)
Income from fixed
asset investments 3 - 5 - 1 1
Dividends received 9 - 15 - - -
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET CASH INFLOW FROM
RETURNS ON
INVESTMENTS AND
SERVICING OF
FINANCE 25 34 42 57 77 129
TAXATION PAID (101) (53) (169) (88) (196) (327)
CAPITAL EXPENDITURE
AND FINANCIAL
INVESTMENTS
Purchase of tangible
fixed assets (151) (176) (253) (295) (369) (617)
Sale of tangible
fixed assets - - - 1 1 1
Purchase of fixed
asset investments (12) (14) (20) (23) (21) (35)
Sale of fixed
asset investments - - - - 11 19
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET CASH OUTFLOW FROM
CAPITAL EXPENDITURE
AND FINANCIAL
INVESTMENTS (163) (190) (273) (317) (378) (632)
ACQUISITIONS
INCLUDING
ASSOCIATES (27) (14) (44) (23) (22) (38)
DIVIDENDS PAID (140) (146) (233) (244) (196) (328)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASH INFLOW BEFORE
USE OF LIQUID
RESOURCES AND
FINANCING 21 40 37 68 221 368
MANAGEMENT OF
LIQUID RESOURCES
Net decrease/(increase)
in short-term
investments 433 (86) 722 (145) (255) (425)
FINANCING
Return of surplus
capital (1,482) - (2,476) - - -
Proceeds from
issue of shares 11 23 17 38 39 65
Shares repurchased - - - - (21) (35)
Net increase/(decrease)
in borrowings 983 (3) 1,642 (5) (15) (26)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET CASH (OUTFLOW)/
INFLOW FROM
FINANCING (488) 20 (817) 33 3 4
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DECREASE IN CASH (34) (26) (58) (44) (31) (53)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-26-
Reconciliation of Net Cash Flow to Movement in Net Debt for the six months to 30
June 1998 (unaudited)
SIX MONTHS SIX MONTHS
TO 30 JUNE TO 30 JUNE YEAR TO
1998 1997 1998 1997 31 DECEMBER 1997
(POUND)M (POUND)M US$M US$M (POUND)M US$M
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Decrease in cash (34) (26) (58) (44) (31) (53)
Cash (inflow)/outflow
from movement in
borrowings (983) 3 (1,642) 5 15 26
Cash (inflow)/outflow
from movement in
liquid resources (433) 86 (722) 145 255 425
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Change in net cash
resulting from
cashflows (1,450) 63 (2,422) 106 239 398
Translation
difference 3 8 5 13 1 1
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Movement in net
(debt)/funds (1,447) 71 (2,417) 119 240 399
Opening net funds 1,290 1,050 2,153 1,754 1,050 1,754
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLOSING NET
(DEBT)/FUNDS (157) 1,121 (264) 1,873 1,290 2,153
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Cash Inflow from Operating Activities
SIX MONTHS % SIX MONTHS
TO 30 JUNE CHANGE TO 30 JUNE YEAR TO
1998 1997* 1998 1997* 31 DECEMBER 1997
(POUND)M (POUND)M US$M US$M (POUND)M US$M
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating profit 278 267 4% 464 445 541 904
Depreciation 162 149 8% 270 249 312 522
Goodwill
amortisation 25 30 (19%) 41 51 51 85
Decrease in stocks 1 - - 1 - 10 17
Increase in debtors (63) (79) (21%) (104) (132) (35) (58)
Increase in
creditors 17 34 (50%) 29 57 43 71
Loss on disposal
of fixed assets 2 4 (40%) 4 7 10 16
Amortisation of
interests in
own shares 5 6 (8%) 9 10 4 7
Miscellaneous,
principally
translation
differences - (2) - - (4) - -
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
427 409 4% 714 683 936 1,564
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* June 1997 figures restated following implementation of UK Financial Reporting
Standard 10 (FRS10).
-27-
Consolidated Balance Sheet at 30 June 1998 (unaudited)
30 JUNE 30 JUNE
1998 1997*+ 1998 1997*+ 31 DECEMBER 1997+
(POUND)M (POUND)M US$M US$M (POUND)M US$M
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FIXED ASSETS 1,017 1,021 1,698 1,705 1,046 1,749
NET CURRENT ASSETS
Stocks 12 24 20 39 13 21
Debtors 477 459 798 766 421 704
Cash and short-term
investments 945 1,176 1,578 1,964 1,356 2,264
Creditors (2,023) (959) (3,378) (1,599) (1,076) (1,798)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET CURRENT
(LIABILITIES)/
ASSETS (589) 700 (982) 1,170 714 1,191
LONG-TERM CREDITORS
AND PROVISIONS (71) (92) (119) (154) (81) (136)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET ASSETS 357 1,629 597 2,721 1,679 2,804
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CAPITAL AND RESERVES
Called-up
share capital 368 408 614 683 408 683
Other reserve (1,717) (301) (2,867) (504) (290) (484)
Profit and loss
account reserve 1,690 1,520 2,822 2,539 1,543 2,576
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholders'
equity 341 1,627 569 2,718 1,661 2,775
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Minority interest 16 2 28 3 18 29
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CAPITAL EMPLOYED 357 1,629 597 2,721 1,679 2,804
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* June 1997 figures restated following implementation of UK Financial Reporting
Standard 10 (FRS10).
+ 1997 capital and reserves are shown on a proforma basis -
see note 1.
-28-
Reconciliation of Movements in Shareholders' Funds for the six months to
30 June 1998 (unaudited)
SIX MONTHS SIX MONTHS
TO 30 JUNE TO 30 JUNE YEAR TO
1998 1997* 1998 1997* 31 DECEMBER 1997
(POUND)M (POUND)M US$M US$M (POUND)M US$
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Retained profit 147 149 246 249 200 334
Translation
differences
credited directly
to reserves 4 7 7 13 2 3
Return of surplus
capital to
shareholders (1,482) - (2,476) - - -
Shares issued
during the period 11 13 17 21 22 37
Shares repurchased
during the period - - - - (21) (34)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net (reduction)/
addition to
shareholders'
equity (1,320) 169 (2,206) 283 203 340
Opening
shareholders'
equity 1,661 1,458 2,775 2,435 1,458 2,435
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLOSING
SHAREHOLDERS'
EQUITY 341 1,627 569 2,718 1,661 2,775
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* June 1997 figures restated following implementation of UK Financial Reporting
Standard 10 (FRS10).
-29-
Notes to Unaudited Interim Results for the six months to 30 June 1998
1. BASIS OF PREPARATION
The above financial information has been prepared on a basis consistent with the
accounting policies set out on pages 78 and 79 of Reuters Holdings PLC 1997
annual report. The interim financial statements, which are the first published
by Reuters Group PLC, reflect all adjustments consisting only of normal
recurring adjustments which, in the opinion of management, are necessary to
provide a fair statement of the results for the interim periods presented.
Reuters Group PLC was incorporated on 24 December 1996 as Nayatronics Limited
and was re-registered as a public limited company on 12 December 1997. On 2
December 1997 the authorised share capital of Reuters Group PLC was increased
from (pound)100 to (pound)50,000 by the creation of 49,900 redeemable preference
shares of (pound)1 each and on 12 December 1997 was further increased to
(pound)525,000,001 by the creation of 2,099,800,000 ordinary shares of 25p each
and one founders share of (pound)1.
On 18 February 1998 1,417,331,693 ordinary shares of 25p each (together with
cash of (pound)1,482 million) were issued credited as fully paid, following the
approval of a High Court Scheme of Arrangement to acquire the majority of the
issued share capital of Reuters Holdings PLC. In exchange for every 15 ordinary
shares in Reuters Holdings PLC shareholders received 13 ordinary shares in
Reuters Group PLC plus (pound)13.60 in cash. The cash payment was considered a
repurchase of shares at market value and the number of new shares in Reuters
Group PLC was set to facilitate comparability of earnings per share under UK
GAAP. Consequently, prior period earnings per share figures have not been
adjusted.
The capital reorganisation has been accounted for as a group reconstruction and
merger accounting principles have been applied. This includes a restatement on a
proforma basis of the share capital and reserves of the prior period
consolidated balance sheets. As a consequence the proforma share capital as at
31 December 1997 and 30 June 1997 represents the nominal value of shares in
issue of Reuters Group PLC immediately prior to the reorganisation. Differences
between this amount and the previously reported capital and reserves, excluding
the profit and loss reserve, have been reflected in the other reserve balance.
The unaudited financial statements should be read in conjunction with the 1997
annual accounts of Reuters Holdings PLC. The results for the year to 31 December
1997 do not comprise statutory accounts within the meaning of section 240 of the
1985 UK Companies Act but are an abridged proforma version of the statutory
accounts of Reuters Holdings PLC for that year which have been delivered to the
Registrar of Companies. The auditors' report on the statutory accounts was
unqualified and did not contain a statement made under section 237(2) or section
237(3) of the Companies Act.
-30-
2. SEGMENTAL ANALYSIS
SIX MONTHS % SIX MONTHS
TO 30 JUNE CHANGE TO 30 JUNE YEAR TO
1998 1997* 1998 1997* 31 DECEMBER 1997
(POUND)M (POUND)M US$M US$M (POUND)M US$M
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
REVENUE
Europe, Middle East
and Africa 758 734 3% 1,266 1,225 1,484 2,478
Asia/Pacific 232 243 (5%) 387 406 496 828
The Americas 223 214 4% 373 357 437 730
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1,213 1,191 2% 2,026 1,988 2,417 4,036
Instinet 208 186 11% 346 311 383 640
TIBCO 32 32 2% 54 53 82 137
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1,453 1,409 3% 2,426 2,352 2,882 4,813
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OPERATING COSTS WHERE INCURRED
Europe, Middle East
and Africa (501) (486) 3% (836) (811) (986) (1,646)
Asia/Pacific (147) (154) (5%) (245) (258) (312) (521)
The Americas (211) (199) 6% (352) (331) (400) (669)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(859) (839) 2% (1,433) (1,400) (1,698) (2,836)
Instinet (133) (109) 22% (222) (183) (234) (390)
TIBCO (35) (28) 25% (59) (47) (67) (112)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1,027) (976) 5% (1,714) (1,630) (1,999) (3,338)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CONTRIBUTION
Europe, Middle East
and Africa 257 248 4% 430 414 498 832
Asia/Pacific 85 89 (4%) 142 148 184 307
The Americas 12 15 (20%) 21 26 37 61
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
354 352 1% 593 588 719 1,200
Instinet 75 77 (3%) 124 128 149 250
TIBCO (3) 4 (176%) (5) 6 15 25
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
426 433 (1%) 712 722 883 1,475
Central costs (145) (158) (8%) (243) (262) (347) (579)
Net currency gain 22 22 (1%) 36 36 56 93
Goodwill
amortisation (25) (30) (19%) (41) (51) (51) (85)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating profit 278 267 4% 464 445 541 904
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* June 1997 figures restated following implementation of UK Financial Reporting
Standard 10 (FRS10).
-31-
3. US GAAP
UK GAAP differ in certain respects from US GAAP. A discussion of the relevant
accounting principles which differ materially is given on page 80 of Reuters
Holdings PLC 1997 annual report and beneath the following table. The following
are the approximate adjustments required to reconcile UK GAAP with US GAAP.
ADJUSTMENTS TO NET INCOME
SIX MONTHS TO SIX MONTHS TO YEAR TO
30 JUNE 1998 30 JUNE 1997 31 DECEMBER 1997
(POUND)M (POUND)M (POUND)M
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Profit attributable to
ordinary shareholders
in accordance with UK GAAP 195 200 390
US GAAP adjustments:
Software revenue recognition (22) - -
Goodwill and other acquisition
accounting adjustments (1) 10 (3)
Software development (1) (1) (2)
Employee costs (2) (3) (3)
Taxes 9 2 4
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Approximate net income in
accordance with US GAAP 178 208 386
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EARNINGS AND DIVIDENDS (SEE NOTE (II) BELOW)
Basic earnings per ADS in
accordance with US GAAP 76.1p 88.8p 164.5p
Diluted earnings per ADS in
accordance with US GAAP 75.7p 87.8p 163.4p
Dividend paid per ADS
(including UK advance
corporation tax credit) 74.3p 77.9p 104.7p
Special dividend paid per ADS 627.7p - -
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total dividend paid per ADS 702.0p 77.9p 104.7p
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Weighted average number of
shares used in basic
EPS calculation (millions) 1,408 1,406 1,407
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(i) SOFTWARE REVENUE RECOGNITION
Under UK GAAP, revenue and related direct costs from contracts for the outright
sale of software systems are recognised at the time of client acceptance. Under
US GAAP, specific rules were introduced from January 1998 for the determination
of client acceptance in cases where future significant modifications or upgrades
to the software are considered to be part of the client's overall acceptance of
the product. Under these rules, an amount of revenue is required to be deferred
until these software upgrades have been delivered and accepted by the client.
Warranties provided by Reuters in connection with the delivery of millennium
versions of software fall within these rules and consequently an element of
revenue and related direct cost has been deferred under US GAAP. This policy has
not been adopted under UK GAAP.
-32-
(ii) CAPITAL REORGANISATION
As explained in note 1, Reuters Holdings PLC completed a capital reorganisation
in February 1998. Under US GAAP this transaction was deemed a share
consolidation combined with a special dividend and requires retroactive
restatement of earnings per share and per ADS and dividends per share and per
ADS. Under UK GAAP no restatement of earnings per share was deemed necessary as
the cash payment was considered a repurchase of shares at market value and the
number of new shares in Reuters Group PLC was set to facilitate comparability of
earnings with those of Reuters Holdings PLC.
ADJUSTMENTS TO SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
30 JUNE 1998 30 JUNE 1997 31 DECEMBER 1997
(POUND)M (POUND)M (POUND)M
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Capital employed before
minority interest in
accordance with UK GAAP 341 1,627 1,661
US GAAP adjustments:
Software revenue recognition (22) - -
Goodwill and other acquisition
accounting adjustments 10 8 11
Capitalised software development
costs net of amortisation 7 9 8
Fixed asset investments 56 - 14
Shares held by employee share
ownership trusts (39) (32) (39)
Liabilities (27) (10) (25)
Taxes (25) (12) (16)
Dividends not formally declared
or paid during the year 48 51 140
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholders' equity in
accordance with US GAAP 349 1,641 1,754
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
SIX MONTHS TO SIX MONTHS TO YEAR TO
30 JUNE 1998 30 JUNE 1997 31 DECEMBER 1997
(POUND)M (POUND)M (POUND)M
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
APPROXIMATE NET INCOME IN
ACCORDANCE WITH US GAAP 178 208 386
Other comprehensive income,
net of tax:
Unrealised gains arising on
certain fixed asset
investments 25 - 8
Foreign currency
translation differences 4 7 2
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
APPROXIMATE COMPREHENSIVE
INCOME IN ACCORDANCE WITH
US GAAP 207 215 396
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-33-
SUMMARISED BALANCE SHEET (US GAAP BASIS)
30 JUNE 1998 30 JUNE 1997 31 DECEMBER 1997
(POUND)M (POUND)M (POUND)M
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASSETS
Fixed tangible assets 879 809 858
Current assets 1,380 1,612 1,732
Other assets 54 45 58
Software development costs 7 9 8
Goodwill and other intangibles 168 188 174
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL ASSETS 2,488 2,663 2,830
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS'
EQUITY
Current liabilities 2,003 906 940
Long-term liabilities 78 83 86
Deferred taxes 42 31 32
Minority interest 16 2 18
Shareholders' equity
before deductions 405 1,772 1,889
Treasury stock - (82) (82)
Shares held by employee share
ownership trusts (56) (49) (53)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY 349 1,641 1,754
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY 2,488 2,663 2,830
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARISED CONSOLIDATED CASHFLOW STATEMENT UNDER US GAAP
SIX MONTHS TO SIX MONTHS TO YEAR TO
30 JUNE 1998 30 JUNE 1997 31 DECEMBER 1997
(POUND)M (POUND)M (POUND)M
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash inflow from
operating activities 351 390 817
Net cash outflow from
investing activities (190) (204) (400)
Net cash outflow from
financing activities (579) (66) (85)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net (decrease)/increase in
cash and cash equivalents (418) 120 332
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-34-
General Statistics and Financial Ratios
GENERAL STATISTICS
% CHANGE
JUNE DECEMBER % JUNE JUNE 97 TO
1998 1997 CHANGE 1997 JUNE 98
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
User accesses (000s)
Information product accesses 418 386 8% 355 18%
Transaction product accesses 39 38 3% 35 12%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total subscriber locations (000s) 57.2 53.0 8% 47.6 20%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average daily contacts
foreign exchange (000s) 290 314 (8%) 321 (10%)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Information sources:
Contributors 4,923 4,800 2% 4,828 2%
Markets reported in real time 292 277 5% 276 5%
Journalists 2,035 2,036 - 1,975 3%
Bureaux 169 174 (3%) 163 4%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Infrastructure:
Countries in which services
distributed 163 163 - 163 -
Countries with offices 91 97 (6%) 91 -
Cities 215 217 (1%) 221 (3%)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Staff numbers 16,699 16,119 4% 15,995 4%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FINANCIAL RATIOS
JUNE DECEMBER JUNE
1998 1997 1997*
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating margin 19.1% 18.8% 18.9%
Pre-tax margin 20.2% 21.7% 21.5%
Post-tax margin 13.4% 13.5% 14.2%
EBITDA Margin 31.9% 31.4% 31.7%
Earnings per share 13.3p 24.0p 12.3p
Cash flow per ordinary share 34.1p 61.0p 29.7p
Free cash flow per ordinary share 13.6p 27.7p 13.2p
Book value per ordinary share 21.4p 99.9p 98.2p
Return on tangible fixed assets 48.6% 49.0% 51.3%
Return on equity 61.7% 25.6% 26.4%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The financial ratios are derived from UK GAAP data.
* June 1997 figures restated following implementation of UK Financial Reporting
Standard 10 (FRS10).
-35-
The definitions applied to each of the financial ratios are as follows:
EBITDA MARGIN represents earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation and
amortisation as a percentage of turnover.
CASH FLOW PER ORDINARY SHARE represents profit before taxation, depreciation and
amortisation of goodwill divided by the number of shares in issue after
deducting shares held by employee share ownership trusts (ESOTs).
FREE CASH FLOW PER ORDINARY SHARE represents operating cash flow plus net
interest and other investment income received less tax paid and expenditure on
tangible fixed assets divided by the weighted average number of shares.
BOOK VALUE PER ORDINARY SHARE represents adjusted shareholders' equity divided
by the number of shares in issue after deducting shares of Reuters Group PLC
held by ESOTs. Adjusted shareholders' equity is calculated after deducting the
carrying value of interests in shares of Reuters Group PLC held by ESOTs.
RETURN ON TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS represents profit after taxation as a percentage
of average tangible fixed assets. The average is calculated by adding tangible
fixed assets at the start and the end of each period and dividing by two
(annualised).
Return on equity represents profit attributable to ordinary shareholders divided
by the average adjusted shareholders' equity. In 1997 the average is calculated
by adding adjusted shareholders' equity at the start and the end of each period
and dividing by two. In 1998 a weighted average has been used to reflect the
capital reorganisation (annualised).
-36-
